John Caudwell, a mega-wealthy businessman, has expressed his desire not to be remembered as a billionaire after his death. "I hate the title," he admits, adding, "Personally it is not important. To die a billionaire is not very important to me.
" The tycoon insists that he would rather be known for his philanthropy, stating, "The act of being a billionaire is not about how much wealth you create, it's what you do with it." In 2013, Mr Caudwell, who amassed his fortune through the Phones4u chain, was among the first British billionaires to commit to the Giving Pledge. This initiative, founded by Microsoft creator Bill Gates, his wife Mellissa, and fellow billionaire Warren Buffet, encourages the world's wealthiest individuals to give back and tackle some of society's most urgent issues.
Mr Caudwell, who supported Labour in the run-up to the election, estimates that he has personally donated between £40million and £50million to charitable causes so far. However, he has pledged to donate 70% of his wealth during his lifetime and after his passing, reports the Mirror . Speaking to the Mirror from his £250million mega-mansion in London, thought to be the UK's priciest residence, he shared that giving provides him with a "sort of spiritual feeling.
" Despite this, he expressed criticism towards other ultra-wealthy individuals. Regarding Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, he commented: "If he gave 99% away, he would still be richer than me, and he doesn't even have to do it in his life tim.