Towards the end of our interview, Bill Gates reveals the latest figures on the charitable Foundation's efforts to combat preventable diseases and reduce poverty.
I've given over $100 billion," he states, "but I still have more to give.
For clarity, this amount is equivalent to about £80 billion, roughly matching the size of the Bulgarian economy or the cost of the entire HS2 line. However, it also amounts to approximately a year's worth of Tesla sales.
Gates, a co-founder of Microsoft and a philanthropist along with Warren Buffett, amalgamates their billions through the Gates Foundation originally established with his ex-wife Melinda.
Gates highlights his early initiation into philanthropy, recalling his mother's advice that with wealth came the responsibility to give it away. His Foundation's 25th anniversary is approaching in May, with Gates exclusively disclosing the $100 billion figure to the BBC.
Regarding his philanthropic endeavors, he emphasizes his satisfaction with giving away money, with around $60 billion of his fortune already channeled into the Foundation. Despite his immense contributions, Gates maintains that his lifestyle remains unaffected on a personal level. He explains, I made no personal sacrifice. I didn't order fewer hamburgers or watch fewer movies, continuing to afford luxuries like his private jet and substantial properties.
While he intends to donate the vast majority of his wealth, Gates mentions discussing with his children the appropriate amount to leave them. He reassures that his children will be financially stable after he's gone, affirming, They will not be poor; in absolute terms, they'll do well, and in percentage terms, it's not a substantial amount.
Gates' mathematical aptitude becomes evident as he recalls excelling in a regional math exam at a young age. His knack for numbers remains intrinsic to him, reflected in his approach to wealth distribution and planning for his family's future.
Meeting with one of the world's few centibillionaires, I join Gates at his childhood home in Seattle, where he reflects on his upbringing and early influences that paved the way for his tech innovation. His memoir, "Source Code: My Beginnings," delves into his formative years, shedding light on his journey from a challenging child to a tech pioneer.
His family members, Kristi and Libby, accompany him down memory lane in their childhood home, reminiscing about their upbringing. They share anecdotes illustrating Gates' unique traits and early interests, portraying a picture of a remarkable individual destined for exceptional achievements.
As we explore his childhood quarters, Gates opens up about his early passion for coding and his relentless pursuit of knowledge in the nascent tech era. Reflecting on his upbringing and early challenges, Gates reveals a glimpse into the formative experiences that shaped his future success.
Gates' remarkable trajectory from a curious child to a tech titan is a testament to his unwavering dedication and innovative spirit. His story serves as an inspiration, emphasizing that one's essence is often destined from the outset.