The latest 13F filings offer an insightful look into the nuanced adjustments made within Bill Gates’ investment portfolio during the second quarter of 2025. With an estimated portfolio valuation of approximately $43.2 billion, these movements signal a strategic rebalancing. This rebalancing is characterized by a continued reduction in a long-standing position, a measured entry into emerging sectors, and the steadfast maintenance of core, defensively oriented assets. This evolving allocation strategy underscores a pragmatic approach to navigating current market dynamics.
- Bill Gates’ portfolio is valued at approximately $43.2 billion.
- Microsoft (MSFT) remains the dominant holding, constituting nearly 27% of the total portfolio.
- A significant 8% divestment in Berkshire Hathaway (BRK) in Q2 2025 brings the total reduction over six months to 20%.
- A new, modest position in a biotechnology firm specializing in gene therapies was initiated, representing about 1.5% of the portfolio.
- Positions in Canadian National Railway (CNR) saw a slight increase of 3%, while holdings in Waste Management (WM) and Caterpillar (CAT) remained unchanged.
Strategic Portfolio Adjustments
Core Holdings and Infrastructure Investments
A cornerstone of Gates’ investment strategy remains the robust presence of technology giant Microsoft (MSFT). This equity continues to represent the dominant share of his holdings, accounting for nearly 27% of the total portfolio value. Simultaneously, a slight increase of 3% in Canadian National Railway (CNR) underscores a persistent belief in critical infrastructure. This move reinforces positions that offer inherent stability and direct exposure to fundamental economic arteries, reflecting a long-term perspective on essential services.
Key Divestitures and New Ventures
The most significant portfolio shift observed in the recent filings involves a further reduction in the stake held in Berkshire Hathaway. This 8% divestment during Q2 2025 contributes to a total reduction of 20% over the past six months, clearly signaling a gradual yet consistent re-evaluation of this historically significant investment. Concurrently, Gates has initiated a new, albeit modest, position in a biotechnology firm specifically focused on gene therapies. This initial foray, which represents approximately 1.5% of the overall portfolio, suggests a potential pivot towards more innovative, high-growth sectors, marking a cautious diversification into the burgeoning life sciences industry.
Resilient Foundations: Defensive Holdings Maintained
In contrast to these strategic adjustments, Bill Gates maintained unchanged positions in two particularly defensive equities: Waste Management (WM) and Caterpillar (CAT). These holdings are frequently favored for their demonstrated resilience across diverse economic cycles, providing a stable and reliable foundation within a comprehensively diversified portfolio. Their consistent presence within the portfolio underscores a clear preference for companies characterized by strong fundamentals and the provision of essential services, thereby balancing the more dynamic and growth-oriented elements of his overall investment strategy.
Outlook: Calculated Refinement for Long-Term Growth
Overall, the Q2 2025 portfolio adjustments undertaken by Bill Gates, while not indicative of a radical overhaul, certainly suggest a calculated refinement of his evolving investment strategy. The subtle increases in infrastructure holdings, the measured reduction in a long-standing traditional investment, and the initial exploration of biotechnology collectively point towards a strategic positioning for sustained long-term growth and enhanced diversification. This approach is meticulously balanced by a continued strong commitment to established, resilient enterprises that provide fundamental stability.
Jonathan Reed received his MA in Journalism from Columbia University and has reported on corporate governance and leadership for major business magazines. His coverage focuses on executive decision-making, startup innovation, and the evolving role of technology in driving business growth.