The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

American billionaire Bill Gates has purchased 10.8 million shares (a 3.8% stake) in Heineken Holding, worth €883 million at current market prices, according to Reuters. Gates purchased 6.65 million shares in Heineken Holding individually, while 4.18 million shares were bought through philanthropic organisation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust. A filing by the Netherlands’ Financial Markets Authority said the shares were purchased on 17 February. The transaction triggered a disclosure requirement under Dutch stock market rules. The Microsoft founder bought the shares from Mexican Coca-Cola bottler FEMSA, which last week launched a €3.7 billion stock and equity-linked sale for part of its holdings in Heineken, as it looks to exit the brewing company.