If there’s anyone you’d consider asking for money, it’s a billionaire.
Individuals like Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, and Bill Gates earn thousands of dollars per minute, making a request for $1,000 seem like mere pocket change to them.
The same logic applies to Sir Richard Branson, who, as of this year, possesses a net worth of around $2.7 billion.
Branson accumulated his wealth through Virgin Group, a company that spans a variety of industries, including cellphone networks, gyms, an airline, and its own radio station.
Considering his immense fortune, one individual decided to take a chance and requested $1,000 from the 74-year-old.
Australian comedian and radio host Hamish Blake recounted the story, noting that a member of his radio show team asked Branson for money when the billionaire appeared on their show.
Blake recalled: “We had Richard Branson on the show, and one of the guys on our radio show, Jack, basically said to Richard Branson, ‘You are a billionaire. Can we just go to the ATM downstairs and give me $1,000? It’s nothing to you but it’ll change my month.'”
While many would likely laugh off such a casual request for $1,000, Branson responded in an unexpected manner.
“There’s something I’d give you all my money for,” the billionaire reportedly replied. “Your age.”
Blake continued: “I was like, ‘That’s interesting’. Jack was 22, and we were like, ‘What do you mean by that?’
“And he said, ‘I’d happily be broke and 22 than a billionaire and 68,’ or whatever he was at the time.”
According to Blake, Branson’s response left a lasting impression on him, and he often reflects on what was said.
“Whatever age we’re at. Let’s say we have $10 million and we’re 90 years old, of course we’d give $10 million to go back to be 40,” Blake explained.
Blake shared this conversation on ABC’s The Assembly.
Although Blake was clearly moved by Branson’s words, not everyone shared the same sentiment.
A commenter on the YouTube clip remarked: “Nice way for Branson to avoid the original question. Also rich people don’t stay rich by giving their money away.”
Another individual argued: “From someone who has grown up poor, money does change lives. People treat you differently, you have far less opportunities and even at 22 youth does not keep a roof over your head.”
What are your thoughts?