Building a Stronger Philanthropic Ecosystem in Asia

How does the role of philanthropy in society need to evolve in these troubled times? BY JIA XIAN SEOW The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) recently announced its intention to spend US$9 billion annually by 2026—a 50% increase over pre-pandemic spending levels. With an endowment now totaling an estimated US$70 billion, one would not be faulted in wondering whether the world’s second largest philanthropic foundation may presume to be the global authority on effective giving for the world’s greatest needs. Instead, speaking to APC members a Fireside Chat in June 2022, BMGF CEO and Board Member Mark Suzman’s tone…