From NASDAQ MarketSite:

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and billionaire philanthropist, stepped down to focus on charitable work, growing his wealth to $127.7 billion. His foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust, holds stakes in companies, with the top four being Microsoft, Berkshire Hathaway, Canadian National Railway, and Waste Management.

Microsoft, with Gates’ ties, holds the largest share in the trust’s portfolio at 34%. Under CEO Satya Nadella, Microsoft has shifted focus to cloud computing, becoming the second-largest cloud provider and fastest-growing, among other technologies. The company pays consistent dividends and has a low payout ratio, providing potential for future increases.

Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, another top holding, contributes 17% to the trust’s portfolio. Berkshire Hathaway’s diverse businesses, including insurance operations, generate significant cash flow. The company has a strong track record, large cash pile, and consistent dividend increases, making it an attractive holding for the foundation.

Canadian National Railway, valued at 16%, benefits from its operational efficiency and long history as a key player in the industry. The company has a stable dividend yield, consistent increases, and a relatively low payout ratio, indicating room for future growth. Waste Management, with a 15% holding, offers a reliable business model centered on waste and energy recovery. It has a strong dividend history and potential for future growth, making it an appealing investment for the trust.

Overall, the Gates Foundation Trust portfolio focuses on dividend-paying stocks, providing sustainable income for charitable endeavors. With the potential for growth and consistent returns, these top holdings offer a profitable and philanthropic approach to investment.



Read more at NASDAQ MarketSite: Billionaire Bill Gates Has 82% of His $42 Billion Portfolio in Just 4 Stocks