Giving While Living: Buffett, Gates, and Scott Top America’s Philanthropy Power List

America’s wealthiest philanthropists give big—but their fortunes grow even faster  
On National Philanthropy Day 2025, the spotlight is on the country’s most generous givers. According to Forbes, the top 25 US philanthropists have donated a staggering $241 billion over their lifetimes. Yet, their combined wealth has surged to $1.6 trillion, with total giving now accounting for just 15% of their net worth—the lowest ratio since tracking began in 2021.

Warren Buffett remains the most prolific donor, having given away $62 billion, or 30% of his wealth, primarily through the Gates Foundation and his children’s charities. Bill and Melinda French Gates follow with $47.7 billion in lifetime giving, focused on global health, poverty alleviation, and women’s empowerment. MacKenzie Scott has rapidly distributed over $17 billion to grassroots organizations, often without strings attached.

Major takeaways  

• Warren Buffett leads with $62 billion in donations—30% of his total wealth  
• Bill and Melinda Gates have given $47.7 billion, focusing on health and equity  
• MacKenzie Scott has donated $17 billion with a no-strings-attached approach  
• George Soros, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg also feature among top donors  
• Despite record giving, billionaire wealth has outpaced philanthropy in recent years  

Sources: LiveMint, Outlook Business, Times of India