Although Microsoft has played a major role in Bill Gates' financial journey, it contributes only a fraction to his total wealth.
Some sources suggest that only 12.5% of Gates' net worth originates from the $1 trillion tech company. According to Wealth-X, the co-founder of Microsoft makes $10.95 million per day which is more than four times what the average person makes in a lifetime.
As of now, Bill Gates' net worth is estimated to be at least $118.2 billion. However, rather than restrict his wealth to the acquisition of luxurious cars and art, Gates continues to actively invest.
The majority of Gates' wealth stems from his extensive investment portfolio, agreeing with Warren Buffett's quote: 'if you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die.'
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His real estate portfolio includes the $127 million Xanadu 2.0 and the $18 million Ranch Paseana in California. Managed through his firm, Cascade, Gates' portfolio also includes stakes in luxury hotels and other ventures.
Through philanthropic efforts, Bill and his divorced wife Melinda established the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation - the world's largest private charity. The foundation is dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequality globally, with a commitment of $8.3 billion in 2023, and aims to increase its payout to $9 billion by 2026.
Since 1994, a large portion of Gates' earnings - exceeding $45.5 billion - has been donated to the foundation, and more recently, the announcement of his children's inheritance.
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Gates has confirmed previously that he would 'virtually give all' of his wealth to the Gates Foundation.
On the back of this, Gates said: 'I have an obligation to return my resources to society in ways that have the greatest impact for reducing suffering and improving lives. And I hope others in positions of great wealth and privilege will step up in this moment too.'
In 2023, Gates shared his interests outside of the tech world by acquiring a 3.76% stake in Heineken Holding NV - valued at approximately $939.87 million.
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Gates' portfolio even extends to farmland. In a Reddit Ask Me Anything, Gates opened up about owning 242,000 acres of farmland which equates to 0.03% of all US farmland.
Gates said that he plans to enhance productivity and job creation through the investments, with decision-making aided by the professional investment team.
This is not to say Gates doesn't spend a good portion of his fortune on materialistic items however. In fact, he owns quite the collection of sports cars valued at $650,000, including a Porsche 911, a Jaguar XJ6, and a Ferrari 348. Not to forget the four private jets under Gates' ownership!