Warren Buffett is postponing his annual multibillion-dollar donation to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for the first time in nearly 20 years as the foundation conducts an internal review of its previous interactions with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The 95-year-old Berkshire Hathaway chairman, who traditionally donates shares of Berkshire stock to the foundation each summer, is delaying this year’s contribution until later in 2026, potentially as late as Thanksgiving. This pause marks a significant break in Buffett’s long-standing commitment, which began in 2006 as part of his self-described “lifetime” philanthropic pledge.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the decision stems from concerns surrounding the foundation’s past ties to Epstein, who was convicted as a sex offender before his death in 2019. The Gates Foundation retained the law firm WilmerHale to lead an independent review into any prior associations with Epstein. The results of this investigation are expected to be released later this summer.

Buffett and his team have maintained communication with Gates Foundation leadership, including CEO Mark Suzman, to monitor the progress of the review and better understand the foundation’s connection to Epstein. To date, Buffett has donated approximately $48 billion worth of Berkshire Hathaway shares to the Gates Foundation, making it the largest recipient of his philanthropic efforts.

The delay comes amid intensified public and legal scrutiny of Bill Gates’ relationship with Epstein. Newly released Justice Department documents in 2026 have shed further light on Gates’ interactions with the disgraced financier. Gates has acknowledged meeting Epstein multiple times after Epstein’s 2008 conviction, explaining that these meetings were intended to secure funding for global health initiatives. The foundation has consistently denied making any financial payments to Epstein or engaging in any formal partnerships with him.

Requests for comment from both Gates and Buffett were not returned. The situation underscores the increasing caution among major philanthropists as they navigate reputational risks tied to Epstein-related associations.