Billionaire philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder, Bill Gates, has revealed surprising details about how much of his vast fortune his children will actually inherit.
According to Gates, his three children will receive “less than 1% of the total wealth”, a decision he believes is in their best interest.
With an estimated net worth exceeding $100 billion, many might expect his heirs to receive a large portion of his estate. However, Gates explained that he wants them to build their own paths.
The 69-year-old tech mogul recently appeared on Raj Shamani’s Podcast, where he opened up about his perspective on generational wealth and parenting.
He said: “In my case, my kids got a great upbringing and education but [will get] less than 1% of the total wealth because I decided it wouldn’t be a favour to them. It’s not a dynasty. I’m not asking them to run Microsoft.”
As of 2025, Forbes lists Gates as the 13th richest person in the world, with an estimated net worth of $102.2 billion. Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk tops the chart with a staggering $342 billion.
Gates, who shares three children aged 28, 25, and 22 with his ex-wife Melinda, ended his 26-year marriage in 2021.
The couple previously co-chaired the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the world’s largest private philanthropic organization. Following their separation, the organization has been renamed the Gates Foundation.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Gates made headlines by donating over $250 million toward global health initiatives, despite not having a formal medical background.
He also gained attention for his outspoken views on vaccine development, becoming a prominent voice in the global health community.
In recent years, Gates has continued to be a vocal advocate for humanitarian causes, even criticizing political decisions such as former President Donald Trump’s move to reduce funding for USAID.