What Companies Does Bill Gates Own? A Look at His Foundation's Top Holdings

With a net worth exceeding $100 billion, Bill Gates ranks among the world’s wealthiest individuals. While most know him as Microsoft’s co-founder, his investment portfolio through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation reveals fascinating insights into where he’s placing his financial bets. Though Gates doesn’t directly manage the foundation’s daily operations, he maintains significant influence over its investment decisions, meaning every stock position has his backing.

Microsoft Remains the Crown Jewel

The most dominant position in Gates’ portfolio centers on Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), which represents roughly one-third of the foundation’s total holdings at approximately $15 billion. This shouldn’t come as a surprise—Gates founded the company in 1975 and built his fortune primarily through his original stake. While his position has gradually decreased over decades, the tech giant remains the foundation’s largest concentrated bet.

The second-largest position shifts to an unexpected player: Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRK.A/BRK.B), valued at around $10 billion and comprising about 20% of the total portfolio. This investment reflects Gates’ long-standing personal relationship with Warren Buffett and mutual respect between the two titans. Beyond friendship, Berkshire Hathaway’s track record as a dependable wealth creator across multiple decades makes it an appealing holding for any serious investor.

A Surprising Focus on Industrial Powerhouses

Rounding out the foundation’s top-five company investments are Waste Management (NYSE: WM), Canadian National Railway (NYSE: CNI), and Caterpillar (NYSE: CAT). The concentration in industrial sector stocks may catch observers off guard, yet each company exhibits characteristics that legendary investors like Buffett consistently recommend: durable competitive advantages, strong brand recognition, and proven longevity.

These holdings demonstrate a deliberate strategy rather than scattered speculation. The foundation maintains a diversified portfolio spanning approximately two dozen positions, but these five companies represent the core conviction plays. Beyond individual stocks, the portfolio displays a preference for established enterprises with predictable cash flows—businesses that survive economic cycles and adapt to changing market conditions.

What This Reveals About Gates’ Investment Philosophy

The composition of Bill Gates’ holdings through his foundation tells a coherent story: he invests in enduring businesses with clear economic moats. Rather than chasing trendy companies or speculative opportunities, Gates opts for proven operators across technology, financial services, transportation, and materials sectors. This approach aligns with his reputation for data-driven decision-making and long-term thinking.