Photo Credit: Getty Images
In a candid conversation on the Figuring Out podcast hosted by Raj Shamani, Bill Gates unveiled a surprising detail about his estate plans: his three children will inherit less than one percent of his $101.2 billion net worth.
This revelation sparked widespread attention, especially given the common perception that wealthy families build financial legacies for future generations. Gates, however, emphasized a different philosophy. "My kids got a great upbringing and education," he said. "But less than 1% of the total wealth because I decided it wouldn't be a favor to them."
The conversation unfolded as Shamani contrasted cultural views on inheritance, particularly highlighting how many Indian families feel obliged to preserve wealth for their children. Gates responded by reinforcing his belief in self-made success. "It's not a dynasty," he stated. "I'm not asking them to run Microsoft."
Gates shares daughter Jennifer, 28, son Rory, 25, and daughter Phoebe, 22, with ex-wife Melinda French Gates. Despite their immense privilege, he is clear about encouraging independence. "I want to give them a chance to have their own earnings and success, be significant and not overshadowed by the incredible luck and good fortune I had," Gates explained.
After divorcing in 2021, Gates became the sole chair of what is now known as the Gates Foundation, the largest private charitable organization in the world. The majority of his wealth is pledged to the foundation, which focuses on global health, education, and poverty reduction. "The highest calling for these resources is to go back to the neediest," Gates told Shamani.
According to Forbes, even 1% of Gates' fortune—over $1 billion—is a staggering sum. Yet Gates has long maintained that his children's true inheritance lies in opportunity, not wealth. He reiterated that he had communicated his values to them early. "You don't want your kids to ever be confused about your support for them and your love for them," he said.
While public opinion on such a decision varies, Gates' approach reflects a growing trend among tech billionaires who prioritize philanthropy over dynastic wealth. "People in the tech sector are probably the most aggressive about giving most of it away," he noted.
