Warren Buffett has made a "Thanksgiving donation," and this time it is a significant contribution: 1,600 shares of Berkshire's Class A stock, which quickly converted to 2.4 million shares of Class B stock, worth up to $1.1 billion, all donated to four foundations managed by his children.
Buffett is 94 years old this year, and he has clearly stated his estate distribution plan in his letter to shareholders. After this donation, he has 206,363 shares of Berkshire Class A stock left. Since he announced in 2006 that he would donate 99% of his wealth, he has now donated 56.6%.
His first wife, Susan, originally had a total of 508,998 shares of Class A stock. They initially thought Susan would live longer than him and would donate all the money. However, Susan passed away first, leaving behind an estate of $3 billion, of which 96% was donated to foundations, while their three children each received $10 million. Buffett said this is their philosophy: wealthy parents should give their children enough money to explore but not too much, otherwise the children will become useless.
In June of this year, Buffett also told foreign media that almost all of the money left after his death would go to a new charitable trust, which is managed by his daughter and two sons, and any expenditure requires the agreement of all three. In the letter, Buffett reiterated that he has never intended to create a family dynasty and does not care about what happens after his death. After he passes away, his three children will gradually divide the Berkshire stocks he holds, which account for 99.5% of his total wealth.
Buffett also suggested that whether it is an ordinary family or a wealthy family, parents should let their children see their wills. When the children become sensible, they should let them look at the will before signing it, ensuring they understand your decisions and know what responsibilities they have after your death. While you are still alive, answer their questions and listen to their suggestions as soon as possible.
Buffett said that he revises his will every few years, but these are just small changes. He has seen too many families torn apart because of wills, especially when sons receive more money or hold higher status than daughters.
Buffett has known for a long time that he would become wealthy. He said he was born in 1930 in the United States, and being a white male has made him feel extraordinarily lucky.