Gates Pledges 99% Wealth, Plans $200B Philanthropic Effort by 2045

Bill Gates has committed to donating 99% of his fortune, estimated at around $107 billion, to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, accelerating the foundation's planned closure to 2045. Over the next 20 years, the foundation aims to spend more than $200 billion to address urgent global challenges such as preventing maternal and infant deaths, eradicating infectious diseases, and promoting inclusive economic growth. This unprecedented philanthropic pledge is the largest in modern history, surpassing historic contributions when adjusted for inflation, with only Warren Buffett's larger fortune possibly exceeding it. Gates emphasized the urgency of deploying resources now to save and improve lives, and the foundation plans to wind down operations after fully allocating its funds. Since its inception 25 years ago, the foundation has already donated over $100 billion, with significant support from Warren Buffett. The accelerated timeline reflects Gates' evolving perspective on philanthropy, aiming to maximize impact within his lifetime and provide certainty to partners.