Bill Gates

Bill Gates, a billionaire philanthropist and co-founder of Microsoft, is currently newsworthy due to renewed scrutiny surrounding his past connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Newly released investigative files suggest more extensive contact between Gates and Epstein than previously known. This has led to increased public attention and media coverage. Additionally, Gates is facing criticism regarding the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust's investments in fossil fuel companies. Despite claims of divestment made in 2019, the trust's holdings in fossil fuel extractors have reportedly increased, reaching a nine-year record in 2024. This apparent contradiction between stated goals and investment practices raises questions about the foundation's commitment to environmental sustainability. Separately, Gates has been quoted discussing setbacks in reducing global child mortality rates due to aid budget cuts.