Renowned investor and retired Berkshire Hathaway CEO, Warren Buffett, has said he does not regret donating billions of dollars to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, despite ongoing controversy surrounding Bill Gates’ past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
In a recent interview, Buffett acknowledged concerns over the revelations but maintained confidence in the foundation’s work. “I wish that certain things hadn’t happened,” he said, adding that the organization continues to serve a legitimate purpose. “It isn’t like they’re stealing money for themselves.”
Buffett has donated approximately $36 billion in Berkshire Hathaway stock to the foundation as of 2022 and has continued making annual contributions. However, he noted that he has yet to decide on his next scheduled donation, expected in June.
The controversy stems from the release of over 3 million pages of documents by the US Department of Justice, which include emails between Gates and Epstein discussing meetings and philanthropic initiatives. The documents also reportedly contain allegations written by Epstein concerning Gates, though these claims have been strongly denied.
Gates has previously admitted that his association with Epstein was “a huge mistake” and has apologized to foundation staff, while firmly rejecting any accusations of personal misconduct.
All documented interactions between Gates and Epstein are said to have taken place after Epstein’s 2008 conviction on prostitution-related charges.
Buffett clarified that he never met Epstein or had any dealings with him. He also revealed that he is no longer in contact with Gates, despite their long-standing friendship.
“We’ve had great times together,” Buffett said. “But until it gets cleared up, I don’t think it makes sense to do a lot of talking.”
He further expressed a desire to avoid being involved in any legal proceedings related to the matter, stating plainly, “I don’t want to be under oath.”
