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Bill Gates

Early life

Gates was born in Seattle, Washington, to William H. Gates, Sr. and Mary Maxwell Gates, of English, German, and Scotch-Irish descent. His family was upper middle class; his father was a prominent lawyer, his mother served on the board of directors for First Interstate BancSystem and the United Way, and her father, J. W. Maxwell, was a national bank president. Gates has one elder sister, Kristi (Kristianne), and one younger sister, Libby. He was the fourth of his name in his family, but was known as William Gates III or “Trey” because his father had dropped his own “III” suffix. Early on in his life, Gates’ parents had a law career in mind for him.

At 13 he enrolled in the Lakeside School, an exclusive preparatory school. When he was in the eighth grade, the Mothers Club at the school used proceeds from Lakeside School’s rummage sale to buy an ASR-33 teletype terminal and a block of computer time on a General Electric (GE) computer for the school’s students. Gates took an interest in programming the GE system in BASIC and was excused from math classes to pursue his interest. He wrote his first computer program on this machine: an implementation of tic-tac-toe that allowed users to play games against the computer. Gates was fascinated by the machine and how it would always execute software code perfectly. When he reflected back on that moment, he commented on it and said, “There was just something neat about the machine.” After the Mothers Club donation was exhausted, he and other students sought time on systems including DEC PDP minicomputers. One of these systems was a PDP-10 belonging to Computer Center Corporation (CCC), which banned four Lakeside studentsates, Paul Allen, Ric Weiland, and Kent Evansor the summer after it caught them exploiting bugs in the operating system to obtain free computer time.

At the end of the ban, the four students offered to find bugs in CCC’s software in exchange for computer time. Rather than use the system via teletype, Gates went to CCC’s offices and studied source code for various programs that ran on the system, including programs in FORTRAN, LISP, and machine language. The arrangement with CCC continued until 1970, when the company went out of business. The following year, Information Sciences Inc. hired the four Lakeside students to write a payroll program in COBOL, providing them computer time and royalties. After his administrators became aware of his programming abilities, Gates wrote the school’s computer program to schedule students in classes. He modified the code so that he was placed in classes with mostly female students. He later stated that “it was hard to tear myself away from a machine at which I could so unambiguously demonstrate success.” At age 17, Gates formed a venture with Allen, called Traf-O-Data, to make traffic counters based on the Intel 8008 processor. In early 1973, Bill Gates served as a congressional page in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Bill Gates’ mugshot from a traffic violation in 1977

Gates graduated from Lakeside School in 1973. He scored 1590 out of 1600 on the SAT and subsequently enrolled at Harvard College in the autumn of 1973. Prior to the mid-1990s, an SAT score of 1590 corresponded roughly to an IQ of 170, a figure that has been cited frequently by the press. While at Harvard, he met his future business partner, Steve Ballmer, whom he later appointed as CEO of Microsoft. He also met computer scientist Christos Papadimitriou at Harvard, with whom he collaborated on a paper about pancake sorting. He did not have a definite study plan while a student at Harvard and spent a lot of time using the school’s computers. He remained in contact with Paul Allen, joining him at Honeywell during the summer of 1974. The following year saw the release of the MITS Altair 8800 based on the Intel 8080 CPU, and Gates and Allen saw this as the opportunity to start their own computer software company. He had talked this decision over with his parents, who were supportive of him after seeing how much Gates wanted to start a company.

Microsoft

Main articles: History of Microsoft and Microsoft

BASIC

MITS Altair 8800 Computer with 8-inch (200 mm) floppy disk system

After reading the January 1975 issue of Popular Electronics that demonstrated the Altair 8800, Gates contacted Micro Instrumentation and Telemetry Systems (MITS), the creators of the new microcomputer, to inform them that he and others were working on a BASIC interpreter for the platform. In reality, Gates and Allen did not have an Altair and had not written code for it; they merely wanted to gauge MITS’s interest. MITS president Ed Roberts agreed to meet them for a demo, and over the course of a few weeks they developed an Altair emulator that ran on a minicomputer, and then the BASIC interpreter. The demonstration, held at MITS’s offices in Albuquerque, was a success and resulted in a deal with MITS to distribute the interpreter as Altair BASIC. Paul Allen was hired into MITS, and Gates took a leave of absence from Harvard to work with Allen at MITS in Albuquerque in November 1975. They named their partnership “Micro-Soft” and had their first office located in Albuquerque. Within a year, the hyphen was dropped, and on November 26, 1976, the trade name “Microsoft” was registered with the Office of the Secretary of the State of New Mexico. Gates never returned to Harvard to complete his studies.

Microsoft’s BASIC was popular with computer hobbyists, but Gates discovered that a pre-market copy had leaked into the community and was being widely copied and distributed. In February 1976, Gates wrote an Open Letter to Hobbyists in the MITS newsletter saying that MITS could not continue to produce, distribute, and maintain high-quality software without payment. This letter was unpopular with many computer hobbyists, but Gates persisted in his belief that software developers should be able to demand payment. Microsoft became independent of MITS in late 1976, and it continued to develop programming language software for various systems. The company moved from Albuquerque to its new home in Bellevue, Washington on January 1, 1979.

During Microsoft’s early years, all employees had broad responsibility for the company’s business. Gates oversaw the business details, but continued to write code as well. In the first five years, he personally reviewed every line of code the company shipped, and often rewrote parts of it as he saw fit.

IBM partnership

In 1980, IBM approached Microsoft to write the BASIC interpreter for its upcoming personal computer, the IBM PC. When IBM’s representatives mentioned that they needed an operating system, Gates referred them to Digital Research (DRI), makers of the widely used CP/M operating system. IBM’s discussions with Digital Research went poorly, and they did not reach a licensing agreement. IBM representative Jack Sams mentioned the licensing difficulties during a subsequent meeting with Gates and told him to get an acceptable operating system. A few weeks later Gates proposed using 86-DOS (QDOS), an operating system similar to CP/M that Tim Paterson of Seattle Computer Products (SCP) had made for hardware similar to the PC. Microsoft made a deal with SCP to become the exclusive licensing agent, and later the full owner, of 86-DOS. After adapting the operating system for the PC, Microsoft delivered it to IBM as PC-DOS in exchange for a one-time fee of $50,000. Gates did not offer to transfer the copyright on the operating system, because he believed that other hardware vendors would clone IBM’s system. They did, and the sales of MS-DOS made Microsoft a major player in the industry.

Windows

Gates oversaw Microsoft’s company restructuring on June 25, 1981, which re-incorporated the company in Washington and made Gates President of Microsoft and the Chairman of the Board. Microsoft launched its first retail version of Microsoft Windows on November 20, 1985, and in August, the company struck a deal with IBM to develop a separate operating system called OS/2. Although the two companies successfully developed the first version of the new system, mounting creative differences undermined the partnership. Gates distributed an internal memo on May 16, 1991, announcing that the OS/2 partnership was over and Microsoft would shift its efforts to the Windows NT kernel development.

Management style

From Microsoft’s founding in 1975 until 2006, Gates had primary responsibility for the company’s product strategy. He aggressively broadened the company’s range of products, and wherever Microsoft achieved a dominant position he vigorously defended it.

As an executive, Gates met regularly with Microsoft’s senior managers and program managers. Firsthand accounts of these meetings describe him as verbally combative, berating managers for perceived holes in their business strategies or proposals that placed the company’s long-term interests at risk. He often interrupted presentations with such comments as, “That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard!” and, “Why don’t you just give up your options and join the Peace Corps?” The target of his outburst then had to defend the proposal in detail until, hopefully, Gates was fully convinced. When subordinates appeared to be procrastinating, he was known to remark sarcastically, “I’ll do it over the weekend.”

Gates’s role at Microsoft for most of its history was primarily a management and executive role. However, he was an active software developer in the early years, particularly on the company’s programming language products. He has not officially been on a development team since working on the TRS-80 Model 100 line, but wrote code as late as 1989 that shipped in the company’s products. On June 15, 2006, Gates announced that he would transition out of his day-to-day role over the next two years to dedicate more time to philanthropy. He divided his responsibilities between two successors, placing Ray Ozzie in charge of day-to-day management and Craig Mundie in charge of long-term product strategy.

Antitrust litigation

Bill Gates giving his deposition at Microsoft on August 27, 1998

Further information: United States Microsoft antitrust case and European Union Microsoft competition case

Many decisions that led to antitrust litigation over Microsoft’s business practices have had Gates’ approval. In the 1998 United States v. Microsoft case, Gates gave deposition testimony that several journalists characterized as evasive. He argued with examiner David Boies over the contextual meaning of words like “compete”, “concerned” and “we”.BusinessWeek reported:

Early rounds of his deposition show him offering obfuscatory answers and saying ‘I don’t recall,’ so many times that even the presiding judge had to chuckle. Worse, many of the technology chief’s denials and pleas of ignorance were directly refuted by prosecutors with snippets of e-mail Gates both sent and received.

Gates later said that he had simply resisted attempts by Boies to mischaracterize his words and actions. As to his demeanor during the deposition, he said, “Did I fence with Boies? … I plead guilty. Whatever that penalty is should be levied against me: rudeness to Boies in the first degree.” Despite Gates’s denials, the judge ruled that Microsoft had committed monopolization and tying, blocking competition, in violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act.

Appearance in ads

Gates decided in 2008, to appear in at least one commercial in a series of ads to promote Microsoft. This commercial, co-starring Jerry Seinfeld, is a 90-second talk between strangers as Seinfeld walks up on a discount shoe store (Shoe Circus) in a mall and notices Gates buying shoes inside. The salesman is trying to sell Mr. Gates shoes that are a size too big. As Gates is buying the shoes he holds up his discount card, which uses a slightly altered version of his own mugshot of his arrest in New Mexico in 1977 for a traffic violation. As they are walking out of the mall, Seinfeld asks Gates if he has melded his mind to other developers, after getting a yes, he then asks if they are working on a way to make computers edible, again getting a yes. Some say that this is an homage to Seinfeld’s own show about “nothing” (Seinfeld). In a second commercial in the series, Gates and Seinfeld are at the home of an average family trying to fit in with normal people.

Post-Microsoft

Since leaving Microsoft, Gates continues his philanthropy and, among other projects, purchased the videos rights to the Messenger Lectures series titled The Character of Physical Law, given at Cornell University by Richard Feynman in 1964 and recorded by the BBC. The videos are available online to the public at Microsoft’s Project Tuva.

Personal life

Bill and Melinda Gates, June 2009.

Gates married Melinda French from Dallas, Texas on January 1, 1994. They have three children. The Gates’ home is an earth-sheltered house in the side of a hill overlooking Lake Washington in Medina, Washington. According to King County public records, as of 2006 the total assessed value of the property (land and house) is $125 million, and the annual property tax is $991,000.

His 66,000 sq. ft. estate has a 60-foot swimming pool with an underwater music system, as well as a 2500 sq. ft. gym and a 1000 sq. ft. dining room.

Also among Gates’s private acquisitions is the Codex Leicester, a collection of writings by Leonardo da Vinci, which Gates bought for $30.8 million at an auction in 1994. Gates is also known as an avid reader, and the ceiling of his large home library is engraved with a quotation from The Great Gatsby. He also enjoys playing bridge, tennis, and golf.

Gates was number one on the “Forbes 400″ list from 1993 through to 2007 and number one on Forbes list of “The World’s Richest People” from 1995 to 2007 and 2009. In 1999, Gates’s wealth briefly surpassed $101 billion, causing the media to call him a “centibillionaire”. Since 2000, the nominal value of his Microsoft holdings has declined due to a fall in Microsoft’s stock price after the dot-com bubble burst and the multi-billion dollar donations he has made to his charitable foundations. In a May 2006 interview, Gates commented that he wished that he were not the richest man in the world because he disliked the attention it brought. Gates has several investments outside Microsoft, which in 2006 paid him a salary of $616,667, and $350,000 bonus totalling $966,667. He founded Corbis, a digital imaging company, in 1989. In 2004 he became a director of Berkshire Hathaway, the investment company headed by long-time friend Warren Buffett.

Philanthropy

Gates (second from right) with Bono, Queen Rania of Jordan, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, President Yar Adua of Nigeria and other participants in a ‘Call to Action on the Millennium Development Goals’ during the Annual Meeting 2008 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

Further information: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

Gates began to realize the expectations others had of him when public opinion mounted that he could give more of his wealth to charity. Gates studied the work of Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller and in 1994 sold some of his Microsoft stock to create the William H. Gates Foundation. In 2000, Gates and his wife combined three family foundations into one to create the charitable Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which is the largest transparently operated charitable foundation in the world. The foundation is set up to allow benefactors access to how its money is being spent, unlike other major charitable organizations such as the Wellcome Trust. The generosity and extensive philanthropy of David Rockefeller has been credited as a major influence. Gates and his father have met with Rockefeller several times and have modeled their giving in part on the Rockefeller family’s philanthropic focus, namely those global problems that are ignored by governments and other organizations. As of 2007, Bill and Melinda Gates were the second most generous philanthropists in America, having given over $28 billion to charity.

The foundation has also received criticism because it invests the assets that it has not yet distributed with the exclusive goal of maximizing the return on investment. As a result, its investments include companies that have been criticized for worsening poverty in the same developing countries where the Foundation is attempting to relieve poverty. These include companies that pollute heavily and pharmaceutical companies that do not sell into the developing world. In response to press criticism, the foundation announced in 2007 a review of its investments to assess social responsibility. It subsequently cancelled the review and stood by its policy of investing for maximum return, while using voting rights to influence company practices.

Recognition

Time magazine named Gates one of the 100 people who most influenced the 20th century, as well as one of the 100 most influential people of 2004, 2005, and 2006. Time also collectively named Gates, his wife Melinda and rock band U2′s lead singer Bono as the 2005 Persons of the Year for their humanitarian efforts. In 2006, he was voted eighth in the list of “Heroes of our time”. Gates was listed in the Sunday Times power list in 1999, named CEO of the year by Chief Executive Officers magazine in 1994, ranked number one in the “Top 50 Cyber Elite” by Time in 1998, ranked number two in the Upside Elite 100 in 1999 and was included in The Guardian as one of the “Top 100 influential people in media” in 2001.

Gates has received honorary doctorates from Nyenrode Business Universiteit, Breukelen, The Netherlands, in 2000; the Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden, in 2002; Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan, in 2005; Tsinghua University, Beijing, China, in April 2007; Harvard University in June 2007; the Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, in January 2008, and Cambridge University in June 2009. He was also made an honorary trustee of Peking University in 2007. Gates was also made an honorary Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) by Queen Elizabeth II in 2005, in addition to having entomologists name the Bill Gates flower fly, Eristalis gatesi, in his honor.

In November 2006, he and his wife were awarded the Order of the Aztec Eagle for their philanthropic work around the world in the areas of health and education, particularly in Mexico, and specifically in the program “Un pas de lectores”. In October 2009, it was announced that Gates will be awarded the 2010 Bower Award for Business Leadership of The Franklin Institute for his achievements in business and for his philanthropic work.

Investments

Cascade Investments LLC, a private investment and holding company, incorporated in United States, is controlled by Bill Gates, and is headquartered in the city of Kirkland, WA.

bgC3, a new think-tank company founded by Bill Gates.

Corbis, a digital image licensing and rights services company.

Bibliography

Gates has authored two books:

The Road Ahead (1995)

Business @ the Speed of Thought (1999)

Filmography

Gates has appeared in at least one film:

Waiting For Superman

Notes

^ a b “#1 William Gates III – The Forbes 400 Richest Americans 2009″. Forbes. 2009-09-30. http://www.forbes.com/lists/2009/54/rich-list-09_William-Gates-III_BH69.html. Retrieved 2009-10-02.

^ (Manes 1994, p. 11)

^ a b Chapman, Glenn (2008-06-27). “Bill Gates Signs Off”. Agence France-Presse. http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5i8aV1bK5vmwLaw9wYr9nY5bFc4YA.

^ Wahba, Phil (2008-09-17). “Bill Gates tops U.S. wealth list 15 years in a row”. Reuters. http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssTechMediaTelecomNews/idUSN1748882920080917. Retrieved 2008-11-06.

^ Gates regularly documents his share ownership through public SEC form 4 filings.

^ (Manes 1994, p. 459)

^ (Lesinski 2006, p. 96)

^ Ancestry of Bill Gates

^ “Scottish Americans”. albawest.com. http://www.albawest.com/scottish-americans.html. Retrieved 2009-04-29.

^ (Manes 1994, p. 15)

^ (Manes 1994, p. 47)

^ (Manes 1994, p. 24)

^ (Manes 1994, p. 27)

^ a b (Gates 1996, p. 12)

^ (Manes 1994, p. 34)

^ (Gates 1996, p. 14)

^ “Congressional Page History”, The United States House Page Association of America. “The Page Program has produced many politicians, Members of Congress, as well as other famous men and women. Some of these include: the Honorable John Dingell, the longest serving Member of Congress, Bill Gates, founder and CEO of the Microsoft Corporation, and Donnald K. Anderson, former Clerk of the House.”

^ “The newnd improved?AT”. The Week Magazine. http://theweekmagazine.com/article.aspx?id=803. Retrieved 2006-05-23.

^ (Gates 1996, p. 15)

^ http://www.eskimo.com/~miyaguch/MCReport/mcreport.html

^ http://www.forbes.com/forbes/1997/1013/6008040a_2.html

^ Gates, William; Papadimitriou, Christos (1979). “Bounds for sorting by prefix reversal”. Discrete mathematics 27: 4757. doi:10.1016/0012-365X(79)90068-2.

^ a b (Gates 1996, p. 19)

^ (Wallace & 1993 59)

^ (Gates 1996, p. 18)

^ a b c (.DOC) Microsoft Visitor Center Student Information: Key Events in Microsoft History. Microsoft. http://download.microsoft.com/download/1/3/0/130dd86a-a196-4700-b577-521c4cf5cec1/key_events_in_microsoft_history.doc. Retrieved 2008-02-18.

^ a b c d “Microsoft history”. The History of Computing Project. http://www.thocp.net/companies/microsoft/microsoft_company.htm. Retrieved 2008-03-31.

^ (Manes 1994, p. 81)

^ Gates, Bill. “Remarks by Bill Gates” Waterloo, Ontario (2005-10-13). Retrieved on 2008-03-31. (META redirects to )

^ Maiello, John Steele Gordon Michael (2002-12-23). “Pioneers Die Broke”. Forbes. http://www.forbes.com/forbes/2002/1223/258_print.html. Retrieved 2008-03-31.

^ (Gates 1996, p. 54)

^ (Manes 1994, p. 193)

^ “May 16, 1991 internal strategies memo from Bill Gates”. Bralyn. http://www.bralyn.net/etext/literature/bill.gates/challenges-strategy.txt. Retrieved 2008-04-04.

^ Rensin, David (1994). “The Bill Gates Interview”. Playboy.

^ Ballmer, Steve (1997-10-09). “Steve Ballmer Speech Transcript Church Hill Club”. Microsoft. http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/exec/steve/churchillclub.mspx. Retrieved 2008-03-31.

^ a b Isaacson, Walter (1997-01-13). “The Gates Operating System”. Time. http://www.time.com/time/gates/gates5.html. Retrieved 2008-03-31.

^ Bank, David (1999-02-01). “Breaking Windows”. The Wall Street Journal. http://www.breakingwindows.net/1link3.htm. Retrieved 2008-03-31.

^ a b Gates, Bill. “Remarks by Bill Gates” San Diego, California (1997-09-26). Retrieved on 2008-03-31.

^ Herbold, Robert (2004). The Fiefdom Syndrome: The Turf Battles That Undermine Careers and Companies – And How to Overcome Them.

^ “Microsoft Announces Plans for July 2008 Transition for Bill Gates”. Microsoft. 2006-06-15. http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2006/jun06/06-15CorpNewsPR.mspx.

^ “Gates deposition makes judge laugh in court”. CNN. 1998-11-17. http://www.cnn.com/TECH/computing/9811/17/judgelaugh.ms.idg/index.html. Retrieved 2008-03-30.

^ “Microsoft’s Teflon Bill”. BusinessWeek. 1998-11-30. http://www.businessweek.com/1998/48/b3606125.htm. Retrieved 2008-03-30.

^ a b Heilemann, John (2000-11-01). “The Truth, The Whole Truth, and Nothing But The Truth”. Wired 46 (8): 833. doi:10.1007/s11517-008-0355-6. PMID 18509686. http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/8.11/microsoft_pr.html. Retrieved 2008-03-31.

^ The Smoking Gun mugshots

^ MSNBC adblog site

^ CNET Project Tuva

^ Softpedia

^ Forbes.com coverage of the Gates’ Medina, Washington estate

^ (Lesinski 2006, p. 74)

^ Paterson, Thane (2000-06-13). “Advice for Bill Gates: A Little Culture Wouldn’t Hurt”. Business Week. http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/june2000/nf00613b.htm. Retrieved 2008-04-28.

^ “Bill Gates: Chairman”. Microsoft Corporation. 2008. http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/exec/billg/default.aspx?tab=biography.

^ “Profile: Bill Gates”. BBC news. 2004-01-26. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/3428721.stm. Retrieved 2010-01-01.

^ (Fridson 2001, p. 113)

^ Bolger, Joe (2006-05-05). “I wish I was not the richest man in the world, says Bill Gates”. London: The Times. http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/markets/united_states/article713434.ece. Retrieved 2008-03-31.

^ “Microsoft 2006 Proxy Statement”. Microsoft. 2007-10-06. http://www.microsoft.com/msft/reports/proxy2006.mspx. Retrieved 2008-02-14.

^ Fried, Ina (2004-12-14). “Gates joins board of Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway”. CNET. http://www.news.com/Gates-joins-board-of-Buffetts-Berkshire-Hathaway/2100-1014_3-5491312.html. Retrieved 2008-03-31.

^ “Flat-pack accounting”. The Economist. 2006-05-11. http://www.economist.com/business/displaystory.cfm?story_id=6919139. Retrieved 2008-04-01.

^ Cronin, Jon (2005-01-25). “Bill Gates: billionaire philanthropist”. BBC News. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/3913581.stm. Retrieved 2008-04-01.

^ “Our Approach to Giving”. Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. http://www.gatesfoundation.org/AboutUs/OurWork/OurApproach/. Retrieved 2008-04-01.

^ (PDF) 2005 Annual Report. Rockefeller Brothers Fund. 2006-01-01. http://www.rbf.org/usr_doc/2005_Annual_Review.pdf. Retrieved 2008-02-14.

^ The 50 most generous Americans.

^ Dark cloud over good works of Gates Foundation, Los Angeles Times, January 7, 2006.

^ Gates Foundation to review investments, The Seattle Times, January 10, 2007.

^ Gates Foundation to maintain its investment plan, The Austin Statesman, January 14, 2007.

^ (Lesinski 2006, p. 102)

^ Cowley, Jason (2006-06-22). “Heroes of our time the top 50″. New Statesman. http://www.newstatesman.com/200605220016. Retrieved 2008-02-17.

^ “Gates ‘second only to Blair’”. BBC News. 1999-09-26. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/457951.stm. Retrieved 2008-03-30.

^ Nyenrode Business Universiteit (2003-08-13). “Eredoctoraat Universiteit Nyenrode voor Wim Kok” (in Dutch). Press release. http://www.nyenrode.nl/news/news_full.cfm?publication_id=599. Retrieved 2008-02-18.

^ http://news.tsinghua.edu.cn/eng__news.php?id=1370

^ Hughes, Gina (2007-06-08). “Bill Gates Gets Degree After 30 Years”. Yahoo!. http://tech.yahoo.com/blog/hughes/13653. Retrieved 2008-02-18.

^ Svrd, Madeleine (2008-01-24). “Bill Gates honored with a doctor’s cap”. Karolinska Institutet. http://ki.se/ki/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=130&a=47838&l=en&newsdep=130. Retrieved 2008-02-18.

^ University of Cambridge (2009-06-12). “The Chancellor in Cambridge to confer Honorary Degrees”. University of Cambridge. http://www.admin.cam.ac.uk/news/dp/2009061204. Retrieved 2009-08-20.

^ http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/technology/article2098235.ece

^ “Knighthood for Microsoft’s Gates”. BBC News. 2005-03-02. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/3428673.stm. Retrieved 2008-02-18.

^ Thompson, F. Christian (1999-08-19). “Bill Gates’ Flower Fly Eristalis gatesi Thompson”. The Diptera Site. http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/Diptera/syrphid/gates.htm. Retrieved 2008-02-18.

^ “Proclamation of the Award”. Diario Oficial de la Federacin. http://diariooficial.segob.gob.mx/nota_detalle.php?codigo=4936346. Retrieved 2008-03-30.

^ Bill Gates Goes to Sundance, Offers an Education, ABC News, January 23, 2010

Further reading

“The Meaning of Bill Gates: As his reign at Microsoft comes to an end, so does the era he dominated”, The Economist, June 28, 2008.

External links

Find more about Bill Gates on Wikipedia’s sister projects:

Definitions from Wiktionary

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Learning resources from Wikiversity

The Official Site of Bill Gates – The Gates Notes

Biography of Bill Gates at Microsoft.com

Bill Gates on Twitter

Forbes: World’s Richest People

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

How I Work: Bill Gates

TED Talks: Bill Gates trying to change the world now at TED in 2009

Creativity devoted to Bill Gates and his achievements

Honorary titles

Preceded by

Warren Buffett

World’s Richest Person

19962007

Succeeded by

Warren Buffett

Preceded by

Warren Buffett

World’s Richest Person

2009

Succeeded by

Incumbent

v d e

Executive officers of Microsoft Corporation

Board Chairman

Bill Gates

Chief Officers

CEO Steve Ballmer CFO Peter Klein CRSO Craig Mundie CSA Ray Ozzie COO Kevin Turner

Presidents

Robert J. Bach Stephen Elop Steven Sinofsky Qi Lu Bob Muglia

Senior Vice-

Presidents

Lisa Brummel Jean-Philippe Courtois Jon DeVaan Kurt DelBene Antoine Leblond Mich Mathews Don A. Mattrick Yusuf Mehdi Satya Nadella Richard Rashid Eric Rudder Brad Smith Sivaramakrishnan Somasegar David Vaskevitch Henry P. Vigil Robert Youngjohns

v d e

Time Persons of the Year

Rudolph Giuliani (2001) The Whistleblowers: Cynthia Cooper / Coleen Rowley / Sherron Watkins (2002) The American Soldier (2003) George W. Bush (2004) The Good Samaritans: Bono / Bill Gates / Melinda Gates (2005) You (2006) Vladimir Putin (2007) Barack Obama (2008) Ben Bernanke (2009)

Complete roster 19271950 19511975 19762000 20012009

v d e

Berkshire Hathaway

Corporate directors

Warren Buffett (Chairman and CEO) Charlie Munger Howard Graham Buffett Susan Decker Bill Gates David Gottesman Charlotte Guyman Donald Keough Thomas S. Murphy Ronald Olson Walter Scott, Jr.

Insurance

Applied Underwriters Inc. Berkshire Hathaway Assurance Central States Indemnity Company GEICO General Re Kansas Bankers Surety Company Medical Protective National Indemnity Company United States Liability Insurance Group Wesco Financial Swiss Re

Materials and Construction

Acme Brick Benjamin Moore & Co. Clayton Homes IMC Group (Iscar) Johns-Manville MiTek Precision Steel Warehouse, Inc. Shaw Industries

Furniture

CORT Business Services Jordan’s Furniture Larson-Juhl Nebraska Furniture Mart RC Willey Home Furnishings Star Furniture

Apparel

Fruit of the Loom Russell Garanimals Fechheimer Brothers Acme Boots H.H. Brown Shoe Group Justin Brands

Transportation

BNSF Railway NetJets NetJets Europe FlightSafety International Forest River McLane Company XTRA Lease

Food

Dairy Queen Orange Julius The Pampered Chef See’s Candies

Other

Ben Bridge Jeweler Blue Chip Stamps Borsheim’s Fine Jewelry The Buffalo News Business Wire CTB International Kirby Company MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company Mouser Electronics World Book Encyclopedia

Annual Meetings

May 1, 2010 and April 30, 2011

Annual Revenue: S$118.249 billion Employees: 233,000 Stock Symbol: NYSE: BRKA, NYSE: BRKB Web site: www.berkshirehathaway.com

Persondata

NAME

Gates, William Henry, III

ALTERNATIVE NAMES

Gates, Bill

SHORT DESCRIPTION

Business entrepreneur

DATE OF BIRTH

October 28, 1955

PLACE OF BIRTH

Seattle, Washington

DATE OF DEATH

PLACE OF DEATH

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Insurance Handbook for the Medical Office (Paperback)

$88.82

A complete guide to the latest in insurance billing and coding, Insurance Handbook for the Medical Office, 12th Edition covers all the plans that are most commonly encountered in clinics and physicians` offices. An emphasis on the role of the medical insurance specialist prepares you for success in the workplace, including areas such as diagnostic coding, procedural coding, Medicare, HIPAA, and bill collection strategies. Learning to fill in the claim form accurately is made easier by the use of icons for different types of payers, lists of key abbreviations, and numerous practice exercises. Written by insurance billing expert Marilyn Fordney, this comprehensive, market-leading resource has been trusted for more than 30 years.Emphasis on the business of running a medical office highlights the importance of the medical insurance specialist in filing clean claims, solving problems, and collecting overdue payments.Block-by-block explanations and examples demonstrate the correct way to complete the CMS-1500 claim form.Compliance Alerts and a HIPAA Compliance and Privacy in Insurance Billing chapter highlight important HIPAA compliance issues and ensure that you are aware of, and compliant with, governmental privacy regulations. A guide to receiving payments and to insurance collection is provided in separate chapters.A Medical Documentation chapter covers the principles of documentation and shows how proper documentation can prevent penalties and refund requests, and help you prove compliance in the case of an audit or review.Guidelines for the filing and submission of electronic claims prepare you for the industry-wide transition to an electronic environment.Unique! Color-coded icons clarify information, rules, and regulations for different payers.Form icons and

Insurance Solutions

$19.65

Readers will learn to look at various insurance options including life, disability, health, and long-term care from a new perspective with this guide offering advice on finding insurance, evaluating its coverage, and avoiding pitfalls. There is information on purchasing insurance that a typical insurance company might not make available to a disabled person, and for obtaining insurance when traditional sources appear to be closed. Sample forms, checklists, and extended exercises are included, along with lists of insurance rating agencies, organizations, magazines, books, and web sites. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Insurance (Hardcover)

$33.91

"Explains the functions and history of insurance and its involvement with the 2007 credit crunch"–Provided by publisher.

Sterling Silver Block Turquoise Earrings

$21.49

Exotic jewelry piece updates any look Crafted of gleaming sterling silver with high polish Earrings set off with oval block turquoise stones Silver hoop accents Shepherd hooks Earrings go great with formal or casual wardrobe Each earring measures approximately 20 mm high x 20 mm wide All carat weights and measurements are approximate and may vary slightly from the listed dimensions. Treatment code E. See Gemstone Treatments for further information.

Insurance Economics (Hardcover)

$114.44

Insurance Economics brings together the economic analysis of decision making under risk, risk management and demand for insurance by individuals and corporations, objectives pursued and management tools used by insurance companies, the regulation of insurance, and the division of labor between private and social insurance. Appropriete both for advanced undergraduate and graduate students of economics, management, and finance, this text provides the background required to understand current research. Predictions derived from theoretical argument are not only stated but confronted with empirical evidence. Throughout the book, conclusions summarize results, helping readers to check their knowledge and understanding. Issues discussed include paradoxa in decision making under risk, selection of favorable risks by insurers, the possibility of a "death spiral" in insurance markets, and future challenges such as re-regulation in the wake of the 2007-09 financial crisis and the increasing availability of generic information.

Fundamentals of Risk and Insurance (Hardcover)

$188.17

This classic book presents a thorough and comprehensive introduction to the field of insurance while emphasizing the consumer. The new Tenth Edition first examines the concept of risk, the nature of the insurance device, and the principles of risk management. It then discusses the traditional fields of life and health insurance as solutions to the risks connected with the loss of income. And it deals with the risks associated with the ownership of property and legal liability.

Stainless Steel Block Design Cuff Bracelet

$11.59

A fun block design is featured on this open back cuff bracelet. This jewelry is crafted of stainless steel in a polished finish.Metal: Stainless steelStyle: CuffFinish: High polishMetal weight: 22 gramsBracelet dimensions: 32 mm wide x 75 mm in inner diameter All weights and measurements are approximate and may vary slightly from the listed information.

The Future of Insurance Regulation and Supervision (Hardcover)

$165.53

Written by leading academics, researchers and insurance industry experts, this book offers a diversified perspective on how the regulatory and supervisory framework for the insurance sector will develop over the coming years. It is supported by The Geneva Association, the world-leading insurance think-tank of the private industry.

Wire Writer and Jewelry Jig Kit

$12.39

Jewelry-making tool by Around the Block includes writer tool for creative lettering and intricate designsCraft tool features a handy jigCraft set is also great for embellishing memory pages and cardsWeave and twist wire around the pegs for clever jewelry designsEverything in kit is purple except the green wireCraft kit measures 8 inches long x 5 inches wide x 1 inch highKit Includes:JigPeg setWireWriter toolSpoolPractice wire (5 yards 4.57 meters)Two design templatesTwo blank templatesWarning: Choking hazard. Small parts not suitable for children under 6 years.

The New Health Insurance Solution

$13.36

You no longer need a traditional employer plan to get good, affordable health insurance. The New Health Insurance Solution can help you cut your health insurance costs in half if: You`re self-employed, an independent contractor, or your employer doesn`t provide health insurance (you can probably get coverage on your own for about $94/month—a fraction of what an employer would have to pay for the same coverage) You are employed and pay extra to cover your spouse or children under your employer-sponsored plan—you may save 50% by taking them off your employer plan You own a small business and are getting killed by double-digit premium increases—you can now give employees tax-free money to buy their own plans and get your company out of the health insurance business The book also explains in detail the best solutions for you if: You can`t find affordable health insurance because you or a child have an expensive preexisting medical problem (your state has a program to provide you with guaranteed coverage ) You`re currently putting money into an IRA or a 401(k)—because you don`t realize that an HSA is always a better option You`re unsure how you or your parents will be able to afford health insurance during retirement, or how to maximize benefits from Medicare—including the new Part D prescription drug plan The New Health Insurance Solution is the definitive guide to the new ways every American can now get affordable health care—without an employer. PAUL ZANE PILZER is a world-renowned economist, a former advisor in two White House administrations, an entrepreneur/employer, an award-winning adjunct professor at NYU, and a New York Times bestselling author.

Gerald David Bauman Oxidized Silver Block Band

$74.99

Ring was designed by Beverly Hills Jewelry Designer Gerald David BaumanJewelry is crafted of fine sterling silver with a stylish oxidized finishDesigner band features a block look inspired by the limestone blocks of the Plaze de ConcordShow that special person that your love is rock solid with a designer oxidized silver eternity-style band Ring features smooth, polished blocks all aroundBand measures 5 mm wide x 3 mm thickAll weights and measurements are approximate and may vary slightly from the listed information. Click here for Ring Sizing ChartThis ring cannot be resized.

Insurance and Technology, 12 issues for 1 year(s)

$58.5

Insurance and Technology Magazine shows senior level insurance executives exactly how to deploy technology to maximize productivity, profitability, and achieve a clear competitive advantage.

Medical Insurance in a Flash (Hardcover)

$56.33

Medical insurance and reimbursement made fun and simple! Master the basic knowledge and skills you need to process claims effectively. This multimedia, interactive approach offers a unique package of text, flash cards, and CD-ROM—perfect for quick reference and review.

Insurance for Dummies (Paperback)

$14.48

An updated edition features new information on auto-insurance regulations, personal-liability umbrellas, adjusting deductibles in response to the economic climate, and navigating health care policies based on new trends, as well as special sections for new grads and considerations for freelancers and telecommuters. Original.

Beyond Health Insurance (Hardcover)

$113.8

Much of the debate about health policy in the US has focused on the availability of health insurance coverage and the number of individuals who are uninsured. It is known that the United States spends approximately twice as much per capita on health care, but there is little difference in population health between the US and other nations.

Insurance (Paperback)

$39.84

Description not available.

Title Insurance

$106.11

Description not available.

Insurance Dictionary

$12.13

Description not available.

Medical Insurance Online for Insurance Handbook for the Medical Office User Guide + Access Code + Textbook + Workboo (Paperback)

$146.33

This money saving package includes the 11th edition of Medical Insurance Online for Insurance Handbook for the Medical Office (User Guide and Access Code), Insurance Handbook for the Medical Office textbook, and Workbook.

Economics of Agricultural Crop Insurance (Hardcover)

$266.31

Government subsidized crop insurance has been used by a number of developed countries as a mechanism to reduce farm income instability by reducing yield risks. Economics of Agricultural Crop Insurance: Theory and Evidence provides an in-depth analysis and evaluation of government provided crop insurance in developed countries.The book is organized into three sections. Part one presents background material on crop insurance programs in the U.S., Canada and selected other countries. Part two provides some analytical models of multiple peril crop insurance which suggest the possibility of modification of design which could improve performance and which explores theoretical linkages between crop insurance decisions and other producer decisions previously not analyzed. The main part of the book is part three where the results of a series of empirical studies using data bases particularly designed to answer crop insurance related questions are presented. This part of the book tests a number of the hypotheses which were raised in parts one and two regarding reasons for the widely held view by economists that crop insurance has not functioned well.

Jewelry

$19.39

In logical progression, Jewelry: Fundamentals of Metalsmithing examines the basic techniques of this ancient and accessible craft: fabricating, surface treatments, joining, finishing, stone setting, chain making, mechanisms, and casting. It is illustrated throughout with clear demonstration photos, Mr. McCreight`s beautifully rendered drawings, and examples of exceptional contemporary jewelry.This relaxed yet thorough introduction to the skills of metalworking is a fully revised, expanded and updated edition of Tim McCreight`s popular guide for novice metalworkers. As both a fresh presentation of fundamental techniques and a portfolio of the finest contemporary design, Jewelry: Fundamentals of Metalsmithing is an instant classic in its own right.

Kaya Red Block-printed Satchel Bag (India)

$31.99

Product Features: Organize your things in style with a Kaya red handbag Sweet little satchel bag is handmade by artisans in India Satchel is block printed on 100-percent cotton and features a soft inner fabric lining Zippered inner pocket and outer zipper closure Product creation follows Fair Trade principles and engages in sustainable and eco-friendly product development We truly believe gainful employment, self-respect, market access and enterprise development help eradicate poverty Measures 24 inches wide x 12 inches high Story Behind the Art:108 Mala is an eco-lifestyle company committed to fair trade, sustainable, handmade, eco-friendly, and organic products from around the world. We proudly showcase luxurious bedding and bath, decorative home accents, fashionable jewelry, and stylish personal accessories. Each product is handmade and eco-friendly, utilizing sustainable textiles, organic cotton, recyclable and lead-free materials, vegan fabrics, and natural dyes. Preserving traditional crafts of appliqu?, embroidery, block printing, and weaving, each piece represents the work of fair trade artisans from around the world.What is Worldstock?The handcrafted touch of artisan skill creates variations in color, size and design. If buying two of the same item, slight differences should be expected. Note: Color discrepancies may occur between this product and your computer screen.ImportedShips Carbon Neutral*

Kaya Blue Block-printed Satchel Bag (India)

$31.49

Product Features: Organize your things in style with a Kaya blue handbag Sweet little satchel bag is handmade by artisans in India Satchel is block printed on 100-percent cotton and features a soft inner fabric lining Zippered inner pocket and outer zipper closure Product creation follows Fair Trade principles and engages in sustainable and eco-friendly product development We truly believe gainful employment, self-respect, market access and enterprise development help eradicate poverty Measures 24 inches wide x 12 inches high Story Behind the Art:108 Mala is an eco-lifestyle company committed to fair trade, sustainable, handmade, eco-friendly, and organic products from around the world. We proudly showcase luxurious bedding and bath, decorative home accents, fashionable jewelry, and stylish personal accessories. Each product is handmade and eco-friendly, utilizing sustainable textiles, organic cotton, recyclable and lead-free materials, vegan fabrics, and natural dyes. Preserving traditional crafts of appliqu?, embroidery, block printing, and weaving, each piece represents the work of fair trade artisans from around the world.What is Worldstock?The handcrafted touch of artisan skill creates variations in color, size and design. If buying two of the same item, slight differences should be expected. Note: Color discrepancies may occur between this product and your computer screen.ImportedShips Carbon Neutral*

Questions and Answers on Life Insurance (Paperback)

$17.04

Need help facing the constant barrage of information from competing life insurance companies? With twenty years of experience in the life insurance business, Tony Steuer delivers a practical, one-of-a-kind resource for choosing the best life insurance policy for you or your family. Using a simple question-and-answer format, Steuer covers the essential basics and the finer points of life insurance, including how to: – Differentiate between type of policies – Find and evaluate a policy and company – Hire a trusted agent – Understand the practice of underwriting – Monitor a policy`s performance With all the advice to help you avoid unnecessary pitfalls and unpleasant surprises, Steuer`s guide will help you make informed, confident decisions and gain the maximum benefit from life insurance companies.

The New Life Insurance Investment Advisor

$19.47

For anyone who needs to understand different types of life insurance, as well as considerations for purchasing and managing policies, this book should be on your nearby reference shelf. If you've frequently found yourself fumbling around with terminology, such as the differences between variable, universal, and variable universal life (VUL) policies, you'll finally see some light through the haze.- MorningstarAdvisor.comLife insurance doesn't have to be complex or intimidating. Ben Baldwin's completely revised and updated guidebook makes it clear and logical, discussing how to analyze insurance products based on their investment merits and best overall financial returns. This clear, authoritative resource for consumer insurance information covers the pros and cons of Internet purchases, techniques to use capital within a policy, the fixed premium feature, insurance for different stages of life, and the new emergence of immediate annuities.

Financial and Insurance Formulas (Hardcover)

$162.23

This survey contains more than 3,000 formulas and methods from the field of finance and insurance mathematics (as well as related formulas in mathematics, probability theory, statistics, econometrics, index numbers, demography, stochastic processes and time series). The formulas are mostly applicable in financial and actuarial practice. Their mathematical level ranges from simple ones based on arithmetic to very sophisticated matters of higher mathematics (e. g. stochastic calculus), but they are usually presented in the form most frequently used in applications. Explanations and references to related parts of the survey are given so that one can easily browse and look them up in the text; the detailed Index is also helpful for this purpose. The survey will be of benefit for students, researchers and practitioners in finance and insurance.

Block Folded Paper Hook Earrings (Chile)

$10.29

Add a colorful touch to your wardrobe with handmade jewelry from Chile. These beautiful block earrings are made from recycled magazines. Product Features: Blocks of recycled magazines Hook earrings Available in pink, green and blue color options Earrings measure 3.5 inches long Story Behind the Art: Fundacion Solidaridad began in 1974 as a part of the Cooperation Committee for Peace in Chile, which supported the production and sale of handicrafts made by political prisoners detained in prisons and detention camps. By 1976 the organization was supporting hundreds of community groups from the poorest areas of Santiago, including women's organizations, youth groups, indigenous groups, young artists with learning disabilities and family micro-businesses. New and original handicrafts were invented as a result of the ingenuity and creativity of the local people, many of them made from recycled waste products. By increasing earnings market insertion and social participation the Fundacion helps position artisans to overcome poverty and improve their quality of life by producing handicrafts and non-industrial objects in autonomous workshops and micro-businesses.What is Worldstock?The handcrafted touch of artisan skill creates variations in color, size and design. If buying two of the same item, slight differences should be expected. Note: Color discrepancies may occur between this product and your computer screen.ImportedShips Carbon Neutral*

A Guide to Health Insurance Billing (Paperback)

$90.01

Begin your career in the world of health insurance billing with A Guide to Health Insurance Billing, Third Edition. This resource introduces you to medical billing, covering everything from patient registration to claims submission. Become familiar with appropriate terminology, understand legal and regulatory guidelines, and develop an understanding of coding systems. Finally, put your skills to the test with the Superiorland Clinic practical simulation in Appendix A with 20 case studies that require forms completion.

Medical Insurance for Pharmacy Technicians (Paperback)

$74.25

Medical Insurance for Pharmacy Technicians provides a practical, focused overview of medical insurance and billing of prescriptions in the community pharmacy setting. Each chapter is structured to give students a hands-on, practical approach to understanding and working with prescription charges and the billing process. This text is precisely tailored for a brief introduction to the fundamental understanding of claim processing principles for pharmacy technicians…

Global Perspectives on Insurance Today (Hardcover)

$94.05

Many risks face the global insurance industry today, including the aging populations of developed countries, competition from other financial institutions, and both disparate and quickly changing regulatory demands, to name a few. The book’s contributors offer their unique perspectives on challenges confronting the insurance industry and how attendant risks can be most effectively managed.

Health Insurance Today a Practical Approach + Workbook (Paperback)

$105.94

This money saving package includes the 3rd edition of Health Insurance Today Textbook and Workbook.

Insurance Systems in Times of Climate Change (Hardcover)

$97.64

Natural disasters such as large-scale flooding are on the increase. Climate change directly affects our basis of existence. This includes residential buildings, and commercial and industrial properties. The author highlights the requirements that will have to be met by a protection system for buildings in the future. Insurance against natural hazards lies at the heart of such a system. The insurance systems of Germany, France, Spain, Switzerland and the USA are presented. The author explains what type of insurance system is best suited to meet the challenge of climate change. The starting point of the legal section is statutory insurance with amonopoly. The question of whether such insurance is compatible with Swiss and EU law is examined. Keywords in this respect are economic freedom, competition, services of general interest and universal service.

Non-Life Insurance Mathematics (Paperback)

$56.59

The volume offers a mathematical introduction to non-life insurance and, at the same time, to a multitude of applied stochastic processes. It includes detailed discussions of the fundamental models regarding claim sizes, claim arrivals, the total claim amount, and their probabilistic properties. Throughout the volume the language of stochastic processes is used for describing the dynamics of an insurance portfolio in claim size, space and time. Special emphasis is given to the phenomena which are caused by large claims in these models. The reader learns how the underlying probabilistic structures allow determining premiums in a portfolio or in an individual policy. The second edition contains various new chapters that illustrate the use of point process techniques in non-life insurance mathematics. Poisson processes play a central role. Detailed discussions show how Poisson processes can be used to describe complex aspects in an insurance business such as delays in reporting, the settlement of claims and claims reserving. Also the chain ladder method is explained in detail.More than 150 figures and tables illustrate and visualize the theory. Every section ends with numerous exercises. An extensive bibliography, annotated with various comments sections with references to more advanced relevant literature, makes the volume broadly and easily accessible.

Sterling Silver Block Turquoise Bell Earrings

$19.49

Versatile jewelry piece complements formal or casual wardrobe Crafted with gleaming sterling silver Earrings feature bell-shaped turquoise drops Shepherd hook attachments Each earring measures approximately 17.5 mm high x 10 mm wide All carat weights and measurements are approximate and may vary slightly from the listed dimensions. Treatment code E. See Gemstone Treatments for further information.

Regulating the Business of Insurance in a Federal System (Hardcover)

$69.3

In Regulating the Business of Insurance in a Federal System, Joseph F. Zimmerman provides an up-to-date historical description and analysis of the regulation of the business of insurance in the United States. He focuses on the controversial issue of whether Congress should authorize optional federal charters for insurance companies, thereby establishing a dual charter system superficially similar to the dual banking system. Reviewing the evidence between federal and state level regulation of the financial securities industry, Zimmerman finds that federal regulation falls woefully short of its state counterpart. He concludes that the current system, rather than the proposed dual insurance regulatory system, is the most efficient and effective.

Gerald David Bauman Oxidized Silver Wide-block Band

$118.99

Ring was designed by Beverly Hills Jewelry Designer Gerald David BaumanJewelry is crafted of fine sterling silver with a stylish oxidized finishDesigner band features a wide block look inspired by the limestone blocks of the Plaze de ConcordShow that special person that your love is rock solid with a designer oxidized silver eternity-style band Ring features smooth, polished blocks all aroundBand measures 7.5 mm wide x 2.9 mm thickAll weights and measurements are approximate and may vary slightly from the listed information. Click here for Ring Sizing ChartThis ring cannot be resized.

Family Child Care Legal and Insurance Guide

$13.06

This easy-to-read guide takes the intimidation out of running a family child care business through legal and insurance planning. From researching and purchasing homeowner`s, liability, auto and disability insurance to protecting against lawsuits, the FAMILY CHILD CARE LEGAL AND INSURANCE GUIDE details the many practical ways business owners can maximize their knowledge about the safeguards needed to ensure the health and prosperity of their business.

Stochastic Claims Reserving Methods in Insurance

$93.32

Claims reserving is central to the insurance industry. Insurance liabilities depend on a number of different risk factors which need to be predicted accurately. This prediction of risk factors and outstanding loss liabilities is the core for pricing insurance products, determining the profitability of an insurance company and for considering the financial strength (solvency) of the company. Following several high-profile company insolvencies, regulatory requirements have moved towards a risk-adjusted basis which has lead to the Solvency II developments. The key focus in the new regime is that financial companies need to analyze adverse developments in their portfolios. Reserving actuaries now have to not only estimate reserves for the outstanding loss liabilities but also to quantify possible shortfalls in these reserves that may lead to potential losses. Such an analysis requires stochastic modeling of loss liability cash flows and it can only be done within a stochastic framework. Therefore stochastic loss liability modeling and quantifying prediction uncertainties has become standard under the new legal framework for the financial industry. This book covers all the mathematical theory and practical guidance needed in order to adhere to these stochastic techniques. Starting with the basic mathematical methods, working right through to the latest developments relevant for practical applications; readers will find out how to estimate total claims reserves while at the same time predicting errors and uncertainty are quantified. Accompanying datasets demonstrate all the techniques, which are easily implemented in a spreadsheet. A practical and essential guide, this book is a must-read in the light of the new solvency requirements for the whole insurance industry

Knitting Block by Block (Hardcover)

$19.59

A comprehensive reference features 150 original block patterns and 10 exclusive designs for garments, accessories and afghans that mix-and-match knitted blocks, in a guide that includes such options as intricate counterpanes, delicate lace and animal-print motifs.

'White Garden' Stone Jewelry Box (Peru)

$32.99

This handmade creation is offered in partnership with NOVICA, in association with National Geographic.Product Features:Stone jewelry box makes the perfect place to store your most precious jewelry piecesDelicate and lovely flowers grow in a pristine white garden on this handmade boxJewelry box is meticulously crafted by Juan Licas Coronado on Huamanga stone quarried in the Central Sierra of PeruNatural stone – slight variations are to be expectedStory Behind the ArtI've been an artisan for about 30 years. I learned stone carving since I was very young. From all those crafts, I've chosen the stone of Huamanga because our characters are very alike. My work portrays religious motifs, and some daily scenes of the Peruvian people. My craft is simple – I choose the stone pieces according to the form I intend to create on it. The block is sawed and carved with chisels, burins and drills. Later, the piece is detailed and sanded, enhancing the beauty of its natural finish. As the stone of Huamanga is very fragile, it has to be carefully handled, and a small hit in the wrong place can be enough for destroying a piece at any stage. What is Worldstock?The handcrafted touch of artisan skill creates variations in color, size and design. If buying two of the same item, slight differences should be expected. Note: Color discrepancies may occur between this product and your computer screen.ImportedShips Carbon Neutral*Please allow 10 business days for the product to leave our warehouse and to receive tracking information. You should expect to receive this item within 15 business days.

Medical Terminology for Insurance and Coding (Paperback)

$48.21

Learn medical terminology side-by-side with insurance and coding principles using this unique book. Each chapter is organized by body system and includes a review of the structures and functions, as well as commonly identified diseases and procedures for that system. Whether you are learning these concepts for the first time or reviewing them in preparation for an exam, this book provides plenty of practice on both medical terminology and coding using real-world medical documents.

Social Insurance, Social Justice, and Social Change (Hardcover)

$64.35

"[W]e must tell the story of how social insurance programs have assured basic economic and health security for millions of Americans .This book is a must-read for anyone who cares about these goals."-From the Foreword by Barbara KennellyPresident and CEO, National Committee to Preserve Social Security and MedicareThis politically charged, provocative text serves as an introduction to social insurance programs, examining all aspects of these hotly debated policies. The editors cover cutting-edge topics, including Social Security and privatization, universal health insurance, and how America`s changing demographics will impact social security in the years to come. Five key sections cover the critical topics: Social Insurance: History, Politics, and Prospects examines the foundational social insurance principles upon which Social Security, Medicare, and other programs are basedWhat`s at Stake identifies the risks posed to women, minorities, and the elderly if they could no longer depend on social insurance programsThe Ongoing Debates on Social Insurance discusses public opinions of social insurance programs, and responds to arguments supporting privatizationCritical Perspectives on Social Insurance Reform presents international experiences and policy trends, and analyzes reform movements from a social justice perspectiveTeaching Social Insurance: Critical Pedagogy and Social Justice presents pedagogical strategies to help students understand, influence, and engage in an informed debate about social policy

Lorelle Yellow Block-printed Cotton Sling Bag (India)

$29.49

Product Features: Carry your things in a fun lorelle yellow block-printed cotton sling bag Shoulder bag features a button closure and is made of natural unbleached cotton Handmade bag helps empower disadvantaged women Product creation follows Fair Trade principles and engages in sustainable and eco-friendly product development We truly believe gainful employment, self-respect, market access and enterprise development help eradicate poverty Measures 18 inches long x 13 inches wide Story Behind the Art:108 Mala is an eco-lifestyle company committed to fair trade, sustainable, handmade, eco-friendly, and organic products from around the world. We proudly showcase luxurious bedding and bath, decorative home accents, fashionable jewelry, and stylish personal accessories. Each product is handmade and eco-friendly, utilizing sustainable textiles, organic cotton, recyclable and lead-free materials, vegan fabrics, and natural dyes. Preserving traditional crafts of appliqu?, embroidery, block printing, and weaving, each piece represents the work of fair trade artisans from around the world.What is Worldstock?The handcrafted touch of artisan skill creates variations in color, size and design. If buying two of the same item, slight differences should be expected. Note: Color discrepancies may occur between this product and your computer screen.ImportedShips Carbon Neutral*

Lorelle Pink Block-printed Cotton Sling Bag (India)

$28.99

Product Features: Carry your things in a fun lorelle pink block-printed cotton sling bag Shoulder bag features a button closure and is made of natural unbleached cotton Handmade bag helps empower disadvantaged women Product creation follows Fair Trade principles and engages in sustainable and eco-friendly product development We truly believe gainful employment, self-respect, market access and enterprise development help eradicate poverty Measures 18 inches long x 13 inches wide Story Behind the Art:108 Mala is an eco-lifestyle company committed to fair trade, sustainable, handmade, eco-friendly, and organic products from around the world. We proudly showcase luxurious bedding and bath, decorative home accents, fashionable jewelry, and stylish personal accessories. Each product is handmade and eco-friendly, utilizing sustainable textiles, organic cotton, recyclable and lead-free materials, vegan fabrics, and natural dyes. Preserving traditional crafts of appliqu?, embroidery, block printing, and weaving, each piece represents the work of fair trade artisans from around the world.What is Worldstock?The handcrafted touch of artisan skill creates variations in color, size and design. If buying two of the same item, slight differences should be expected. Note: Color discrepancies may occur between this product and your computer screen.ImportedShips Carbon Neutral*

Life and Health Insurance License Exam Cram

$31.18

If you are studying for your life and health insurance licensing exam, we have the ultimate study tool for you. Life and Health Insurance License Exam Cram is a great resource to help you learn the concepts, laws, rate calculations and state and federal regulations that will be covered on the exam. You`ll also receive a CD that includes a fully-customizable test engine, detailed score report and state-specific law supplement. No matter where you are taking your exam or which area you need to focus on during your studying, Life and Health Insurance License Exam Cram is your smartest way to get certified.

Semi-markov Risk Models for Finance, Insurance and Reliability

$98.01

This book presents applications of semi-Markov processes in finance, insurance and reliability, using real-life problems as examples. After a presentation of the main probabilistic tools necessary for understanding of the book, the authors show how to apply semi-Markov processes in finance, starting from the axiomatic definition and continuing eventually to the most advanced financial tools, particularly in insurance and in risk-and-ruin theories. Also considered are reliability problems that interact with credit risk theory in finance. The unique approach of this book is to solve finance and insurance problems with semi-Markov models in a complete way and furthermore present real-life applications of semi-Markov processes.

Understanding Health Insurance (Mixed media product)

$78.06

Understanding Health Insurance, Tenth Edition is fully updated to the latest code sets, guidelines, and claim forms to provide you with the most essential and up-to-date knowledge on billing and reimbursement. With Understanding Health Insurance, Tenth Edition, you will learn about managed health care, legal and regulatory issues, coding systems, reimbursement methods, coding for medical necessity, and common health insurance plans. Exercises in each chapter provide plenty of practice for learning how to bill and reimburse, and the accompanying workbook (Not Included) provides more application-based assignments for each chapter as well as additional case studies to reinforce your knowledge. The text includes free software that allows you to test your knowledge.

The Guide to Understanding the Insurance Industry 2009-2010 (Paperback)

$24.84

?The Guide to Understanding the Insurance Industry 2009-2010? is an illustrated, easy-to-read handbook that looks at today`s insurance business environment. It is packed with pages of charts and graphs that explain — in a colorful and concise way — how insurers earn and spend money. Using exclusive information and data from the many sources within the A.M. Best family of publications and products, the guide is valuable reference for industry-current trends and terminology, and a comprehensive resource that focuses on the many lines of business within the property/casualty, life, health and reinsurance industries, with rankings of top writers. The guide also showcases information about captive domiciles, solvency and ratings, new insurance companies, A.M. Best stock indexes, how insurance is sold and regulated, and how catastrophes affect the industry. It`s a great gift for new employees, board members, clients and customers, and can be used for reports, speeches and presentations.

ARY Kapoosh 650 Knife Block

$42.49

Kapoosh Knife Block Woodgrain

ARY Kapoosh 650BK Knife Block

$42.49

Kapoosh Knife Block Black

Jack Movez (DVD)

$5.92

Two brothers plan a simple fake robbery of their failing jewelry store in order to collect on the insurance, but they find there is no such thing as a `simple` robbery.

Regulation and Litigation of Insurance

$173.47

Description not available.

Health Insurance Today (Paperback)

$30.55

Description not available.

Understanding Health Insurance (Paperback)

$37.08

The student workbook is design to help the user retain key chapter content. Included within this resource are chapter objective questions, key term definition queries, multiple choice, fill in the blank and true or false problems.

Jewelry Case

Sparkling Precious And Perfect