Bill Gates is no longer the world’s richest man. And really, he’s only got himself to blame. The Microsoft founder slipped from the top spot last year, thanks to the massive sums of money he’s given away by way of his Bill and Melinda Gates foundation. In 2010, Gates slipped from the top spot for the second time since 1995, as Mexican telecom giant Carlos Slim edged him out, $53.5 billion to $53 billion.
Forbes will release its annual list tomorrow. Slim will likely maintain the top spot, with $60 billion, with Gates in second at $49 billion. Investor Warren Buffet will round out the top three at $47 billion.
Gates and wife Melinda have already donated an impressive $28 billion of their fortune, putting them in second place on the list of “Most Generous Philanthropists" in America behind Buffett. Buffett, for his part, has given $8 billion to the Gates foundation and has promise to donate the majority of his wealth to charity.
