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World's Richest People Held Secret Meeting

By Kevin Spak,  Newser Staff

Posted May 20, 2009 11:28 AM CDT

(Newser) – Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, and David Rockefeller Jr recently convened a top-secret meeting of many of the world’s wealthiest people to discuss the financial crisis, according to an Irish Central report confirmed by ABC News. A total media blackout prevailed during the get-together, which took place May 5 at Rockefeller University in New York. Attendees included Oprah Winfrey, Ted Turner, George Soros, and Michael Bloomberg, among others.

It’s unclear how so many famous figures could meet without drawing any attention. Each spoke for 15 minutes, giving their perspective on the economic meltdown. Though the event is sure to fuel conspiracy theories, attendees say it was “100% about philanthropy,” though they wouldn’t discuss any details. Gates, Buffett, and Rockefeller are all renowned philanthropists.

Media mogul Ted Turner applauds as he takes part in the interview of the day at the SportAccord conference in downtown Denver on Thursday, March 26, 2009.
Media mogul Ted Turner applauds as he takes part in the interview of the day at the SportAccord conference in downtown Denver on Thursday, March 26, 2009.   (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
Bill Gates, left, and Warren Buffett share a light moment during the annual Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in Omaha, Neb., Sunday, May 6, 2007.
Bill Gates, left, and Warren Buffett share a light moment during the annual Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in Omaha, Neb., Sunday, May 6, 2007.   (AP Photo/Nati Harnik)
In this Monday April 20, 2009 file photo, Mayor Michael Bloomberg listens during a press conference in New York.
In this Monday April 20, 2009 file photo, Mayor Michael Bloomberg listens during a press conference in New York.   (AP Photos/Bebeto Matthews)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 9 comments
libertybill
Apr 20, 2010 7:12 PM CDT
My first thought was, I wonder if Ralph Nader was invited? Then after reading these comments I wondered if I was the only one who has read Ralph Nader's recent book, 'Only the Super-rich can save us'.
We should hope he was invited.
LionelTowne
May 21, 2009 9:19 AM CDT
Speaking of powerful people, you might like to have a look at this series of articles about a meeting that took place last week in Greece with a similar news blackout http://www.guardian.co.uk/worl...
brawne
May 21, 2009 7:54 AM CDT
Wouldn't a conspiracy be grand? That would require a level of silence seldom found and competency. In a free society, any theory gets its wings, that none sail is the flip side of a free society. Capitalism: I use it when I need to, but I'm not wedded to it. I understand that for some people the pursuit of money is a thing onto itself. But, come on, getting rich in a country dedicated to making you rich has less to do with your bootstraps and more with how you feel about those bootstraps. Those people at that meeting have a need that involves money in a way most of us simply don't get. Believe me, if we shared their drive we would be hanging on the nearest seat sharing a tax dodge. Personally, I like low stress and time for the beach. Are they up to something--no. Sadly, no. Just the same need. I know it involves zeros, but luckily I never caught it.

What would you tell Buffett, Gates and company?
Chronicle of Philanthropy

 
philanthropy • New York City • Bill Gates • Warren Buffett • Oprah Winfrey • Michael Bloomberg • conspiracy theory • David Rockefeller • financial crisis • Ted Turner • secrets

 
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