Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has marked Warren Buffett’s 96th birthday by reflecting on nearly 35 years of friendship with the legendary investor and the lessons he has learned from one of the world’s most influential business leaders.
In a birthday message, Gates described his relationship with Buffett as a deep friendship that began with their first conversation and has continued to shape his thinking about business, relationships, leadership and philanthropy.
“It was a deep friendship from our very first conversation. And I’ve never stopped learning from him since,” Gates said.
Buffett, who was born in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1930, turned 96 in August 2026. His latest birthday comes after a major transition in his career: he stepped down as chief executive officer of Berkshire Hathaway after decades at the helm, while continuing to serve as chairman. Greg Abel succeeded him as CEO.
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Buffett’s tenure transformed Berkshire Hathaway from a struggling textile company into a sprawling conglomerate with interests across insurance, railroads, energy, manufacturing, retail and other sectors. His investment philosophy, centred on buying quality businesses, maintaining a long-term outlook and allowing capital to compound, has made him one of the most closely followed investors in the world.
Gates, however, used Buffett’s birthday to highlight qualities beyond his financial achievements.
“He’s gifted at investing in people,” Gates said, describing Buffett as someone who has consistently made time to nurture friendships. He also praised his patience and ability to make conversations engaging while encouraging others to learn.
The Microsoft co-founder recalled Buffett’s distinctive personality and sense of humour, including his approach to food. Gates said Buffett once told him that he had examined data and concluded that first graders had the best actuarial odds, leading him to eat like one. Gates added that Buffett was only partly joking.
Beyond Buffett’s investment record, Gates highlighted his consistency and willingness to remain committed to his principles.
“I once wrote him a letter about the example he set by sticking to what he believes in,” Gates said, adding that the lesson had remained with him for many years.
The relationship between the two billionaires has also extended into philanthropy. Buffett became a major supporter of the Gates Foundation and served as one of its trustees from 2006 to 2021. The foundation says his contributions have totalled more than $47 billion, making him one of its most significant donors.
Buffett’s influence on Gates has extended particularly into the philosophy of giving. Gates has previously described Buffett as a friend and mentor and credited him with helping shape his approach to philanthropy. The two, alongside Melinda French Gates, launched the Giving Pledge in 2010, encouraging wealthy individuals and families to commit the majority of their wealth to charitable causes during their lifetimes or through their wills.
Buffett’s philanthropic commitments have been closely linked to his belief that substantial wealth should ultimately benefit society. His contributions have helped support the Gates Foundation’s work in global health, poverty reduction and other areas. The foundation reported that Buffett’s giving had exceeded $47 billion through 2025.
His approach to wealth and philanthropy has also influenced Gates’ own plans. Gates has said he intends to give virtually all of his remaining wealth through the Gates Foundation, which is scheduled to close permanently at the end of 2045 after accelerating its philanthropic spending.
For Gates, however, Buffett’s greatest influence appears to extend beyond investment returns and charitable giving.
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The two have maintained a friendship in which business discussions, personal conversations and humour have remained intertwined. Gates said they never run out of things to discuss or laugh about.
“And if there’s one thing Warren has taught me, it’s what friendship is really all about,” Gates said.
Buffett’s 96th birthday therefore comes not only as a milestone in the life of one of the world’s most successful investors, but also as a reflection point on a career built around patience, discipline, long-term thinking and philanthropy.
For Gates, the occasion was ultimately less about Buffett’s wealth or investment record and more about the person behind the Berkshire Hathaway legacy.
“In short, I’m a fan,” Gates said, before wishing his longtime friend a happy 96th birthday.
