Buffett suspends billion-dollar donation to Gates Foundation amid Epstein investigation

The foundation of Microsoft founder Bill Gates has come under criticism because of his contacts with Epstein. Gates himself, who is not under investigation, has repeatedly expressed regret over his contacts with Epstein. In response to the allegations, the Gates Foundation had commissioned an external investigation, the results of which are expected in the summer.

The head of the foundation is Mark Suzman, who commissioned the external investigation. The foundation responded to the ongoing debate over Gates' past ties to Epstein. Until the process is completed, the foundation does not wish to comment conclusively on the allegations.

External investigation by the foundation

Buffett has been one of the most generous supporters of the Gates Foundation for decades. Over the past two decades, he has donated stocks worth more than 47 billion dollars (41.21 billion euros) to the organization. The annual contribution is considered one of the largest private donation campaigns in the world.

The report further states that Gates himself is not the subject of investigations in connection with the Epstein affair. According to the foundation, the external auditors are focusing on the institutional contacts and decisions of the Gates Foundation during the years in which Gates had personally met Epstein.

Jeffrey Epstein is described in the report as a deceased sex offender. The Epstein case attracted worldwide attention for years and involves numerous prominent figures from politics, business, and society. The ongoing investigation by the Gates Foundation is part of a broader review of these connections by affected institutions.

Reactions and open questions

A spokesperson for the Gates Foundation said the organization takes the allegations seriously and is fully cooperating with the external auditors. Only after the final report is available in the summer will the foundation decide on further steps. Until then, it does not wish to comment on speculation.

Buffett's decision to suspend the donation for now comes amid growing sensitivity regarding the role of major foundations. Observers see the move as a signal to the Gates Foundation that donors are increasingly demanding transparency and independent clarification. Other major donors are also watching the developments closely.

It remains unclear how Buffett will decide once the report is available. If the investigation disproves the allegations against the foundation, the donation could be made up in full. If, on the other hand, the allegations are confirmed, a fundamental reassessment of the relationship between Buffett and the Gates Foundation would be expected.

The report was published on June 30, 2026, by the news agency APA. The Gates Foundation announced that the results of the external investigation will be presented to the public this summer.