Warren Buffett discussed his relationship with Bill Gates, who is under scrutiny for his connection to Jeffrey Epstein, in a recent interview with CNBC. Buffett said he hasn’t talked to Gates since the Epstein investigation began and doesn’t want to be called as a witness.
Buffett described Epstein as “a sensational con man” and was astonished by the extent of Epstein’s reach. He believes that Epstein’s influence will have long-term consequences, with many people involved in various ways still struggling from the fallout.
Regarding his connection to Bill Gates through the Gates Foundation, Buffett said he didn’t ask probing questions when donating millions of dollars to the foundation. However, after learning about some of the foundation’s questionable hires, Buffett reassessed his involvement and has since distanced himself.
Buffett expressed concerns that foundations like the Gates Foundation may face repercussions for their ties to Epstein, including potential loss of tax-free status or other consequences from Congress. While he doesn’t regret donating to the foundation, which has done good work in philanthropy, he believes the public’s scrutiny is warranted.
The billionaire also spoke about the tech industry, calling Apple a consumer company rather than a tech company. He said he sold his Apple stock too soon but was happy with its performance as Berkshire Hathaway’s largest holding.
Buffett praised Fed Chairman Jerome Powell for making sound decisions during the COVID pandemic and believes that inflation is the key issue to address at this time.
Finally, Buffett expressed concerns about nuclear war, warning that having a leader with their hand on the nuclear button who is dying or facing embarrassment could lead to catastrophic consequences. He pointed to past leaders like President Kennedy and Russian President Kruschev during the Cuban Missile Crisis as examples of rational decision-making, but notes that some leaders today may not be as level-headed.
Buffett’s comments offer insight into his perspective on these pressing issues, from the impact of Epstein’s scandal to the complexities of nuclear war concerns.
Source: https://www.wowt.com/2026/04/01/warren-buffett-tells-cnbc-how-epstein-files-have-changed-his-relationship-with-bill-gates