Bill Gates AMA | Views on Web3, Metaverse, and Explanation on Becoming the Largest Landowner in the U.S.

Bill Gates held his 11th personal AMA on the Reddit forum. Apart from his widely reported preference for AI over Web3, he also answered many questions.

Technology Innovation

You previously mentioned that people overestimated the development of the Internet two years later, but underestimated the changes it brought ten years later. Are there other technologies now in a similar stage?

AI is a major technology. I don't think Web3, the Metaverse, and other technologies are as important, but AI is a revolutionary technology.

Most of my time is spent on technology innovation, such as the neonatal ultrasound mentioned in the year-end letter, as well as in medical fields related to nutrition imbalances, anemia, etc.

What are your thoughts on OpenAI's ChatGPT?

It gives us a preliminary overview of future AI technology, and I am impressed by its progress in technological innovation.

Climate Issues

What contributions can individuals make to global climate efforts?

Whether you are a voter, consumer, donor, or employee, you can help. Buying electric cars is helpful, and you can opt for carbon-neutral flying by paying a premium. We need support from both sides of the aisle in the U.S. and all countries regarding climate issues.

What is your opinion on vegetarianism as a way to mitigate climate change?

It's great for those who want to eat vegan, but I don't think the majority will do so. Some companies are producing meat products in new ways, and I support many startups in this field, such as Memphis Meats, Impossible Foods, and Beyond Meat.

Although these products have a low market share, I believe in their future development.

Personal

What was your favorite movie or TV show in 2021?

The White Lotus Season 2 was good, as well as The Godfather of Lies, and also Avatar 2. Recently, I have enjoyed the stand-up comedy of Chris Rock and Dave Chappelle.

Will you provide investment advice at Berkshire Hathaway's board meeting under Buffett? Will you still play bridge with Buffett?

I had dinner with him last Sunday. He is 93 years old but still healthy and incredibly smart. I am no longer a member of the Berkshire board, but he still shares a lot of advice with me. He is very generous with donations, including to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. We play bridge much less now. Initially, he introduced me to the game. Sometimes I play with his friends or participate in tournaments.

What are your expectations for the new year?

1. Being a grandfather

2. Being a good friend and father

3. Making progress in medical and climate startups

4. Assisting in the development of AI technology

Why buy so much farmland? Do you think billionaires should be restricted in their land acquisitions?

I own 1/4000 of all farmland in the U.S. I invest in farmland to create productivity and job opportunities, not for any ulterior motives. In fact, these acquisition decisions are made by professional investment teams.

For extremely wealthy individuals, I believe they should pay more taxes, and over time, they should give up all their wealth. This makes a lot of sense to me.