Warren Buffett, one of the world’s most renowned philanthropists, made his largest annual donation on Friday, June 27, 2025. The donation of approximately US$6 billion in Berkshire Hathaway stock was distributed to the Gates Foundation and four family charities. This marks Buffett’s biggest contribution since he began giving away his fortune nearly two decades ago. With this donation, his total charitable giving has surpassed US$60 billion, reflecting his long-standing commitment to philanthropy.
Buffett allocated 9.43 million shares to the Gates Foundation, a significant portion of his donation. The remainder was distributed among his family’s foundations, including 943,384 shares to the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, and 660,366 shares each to three foundations led by his children: the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, Sherwood Foundation, and NoVo Foundation. These foundations focus on a variety of causes, including global hunger, reproductive health, education, and the empowerment of marginalized communities.
Despite the massive donation, Buffett retains 13.8% of Berkshire Hathaway’s stock, maintaining a significant stake in the company. With a net worth of US$152 billion prior to this donation, he was the fifth-richest person in the world. Buffett has previously stated that he does not intend to sell any Berkshire shares and plans for his remaining fortune to be distributed through a charitable trust after his death. At 94, Buffett's philanthropic legacy continues to shape global giving, with the goal of supporting causes that have a lasting, positive impact on society.
