Buffett calls Bill Gates relationship with Epstein 'distasteful'
Warren Buffett has publicly labeled Bill Gates' past association with Jeffrey Epstein as 'distasteful' while confirming that Berkshire Hathaway has ceased donations to the Gates Foundation. This decision follows Gates' congressional testimony regarding his meetings with the late sex offender.
Why it matters
The public distancing between two of the world's most prominent philanthropists highlights the lasting reputational damage associated with the Epstein scandal.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Francisco Velasquez Business reporter Getty Images Bill Gates (L) and Warren Buffet (R). Billionaire investor Warren Buffett has described Bill Gates' relationship with the late sex offender Jeffery Epstein as "distasteful", but said he himself had made mistakes in life by being friends with people "who weren't great".
On Tuesday, Buffett's firm Berkshire Hathaway stopped giving donations to the Microsoft co-founder's charity for the first time in 20 years and instead handed his remaining stock to foundations linked to his family.
Buffett told CNBC he and Gates have had a "wonderful friendship" but confirmed his pivot over donations followed Gates' testimony to US Congress about Epstein.
Gates called Buffett "a dear friend", adding: "My gratitude to Warren is immeasurable."
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