What would you do with 9.5b?
By Team SalaryCalculate · 7/18/2025
Ever have those fleeting daydreams, where you, yes you, become an overnight billionaire? A cool 9.5 billion spontaneously sprouting in your virtually untouched savings account. The thought is enough to leave anyone, including me, a bit agog. But what would you really do, knock-on-wood assuming, this outlandish scenario turns reality? Let's take a fun and slightly educational detour and embark on this billionaire journey together.
Investing in Stocks – Swimming with the Sharks
Let’s say you're prudent, understand the need for steady growth, and decide to dabble in the stock market. But how do you jump into this shark-filled pool without losing a leg or two? With 9.5 billion in hand, hiring a team of financial advisors would be your first move. Heck, that might be your second and third, too. Surprisingly, according to CNBC, most ultra-wealthy individuals keep a percentage of their wealth in stocks - it's not just for the small fry.
Real Estate – Safety in Stone
Beyond the tumult of stocks there lies the rock-solid world of real estate. Forbes states that the real estate market can offer great returns if traversed carefully. With billions at your disposal, you could put together a balanced portfolio of residential, commercial, and vacant properties. Beyond that, there's an altruistic angle. You could create affordable housing or invest in sustainable architecture, leaving a decent imprint on society along the way.
A Nest Egg for the Future
Sitting on 9.5 billion is about as comfortable as perching on a golden goose egg. The planning and investment choices may take centre stage now, but considering the future should side-stage. Adequate retirement funds, investing in a college fund for your kids or grandkids, setting up a fund for unexpected health crises, and just reassurance for life's many rainy days.
Charity – Sharing is Caring
Got 9.5 billion? Spread the love, why don’t you? The IRS allows hefty deductions for charitable donations.
Some of the world's most influential billionaires have pledged to donate a significant part of their wealth to philanthropy. Look at Bill Gates and Warren Buffet, who both signed the Giving Pledge, committing to donate more than half of their wealth to good causes.
Living the Billionaire Lifestyle
We've talked about the practical and societal aspects, but who are we kidding? If you had 9.5 billion, you'd want to live a little. Or a lot. Yachts, private islands, luxury cars, all could be at your disposal. Because, why not?
But remember to have a touchdown point even in this fantabulous flight. According to a report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an average American spends nearly $1.4 million in a lifetime. A billionaire can do that in a day, but even then, a thoughtful lifestyle choice can make your wealth last and leave a lasting legacy.
Wrap Up
Dreaming about life with 9.5 billion is an amusing diversion. It’s fun because it seems so far-fetched. But it’s also useful. It encourages us to consider what we’d do if money wasn’t an issue. And that, my friend, is a conversation worth having.
Try it sometime. You may just uncover a new lifelong goal, a hidden passion, or maybe even cultivate a more potent ambition in the process. Happy daydreaming, fellow billionaire-in-waiting!
