If You Were the Richest Person in the World, What Would You Do with a Blank Check?

Sometimes, the most interesting questions come with the barest conditions. Imagine you were the richest person in the world, and you had a blank check - that mythical financial instrument without any restrictions. This article explores the diverse options you might consider, reflecting on both personal enrichment and broader societal impact.

Investing in Personal Career Development

I’ve always wanted to be a Paramedic, but the path to becoming one in South Africa has eluded me due to financial constraints. With a blank check, my first impulse would be to secure the education and training necessary to achieve this dream. Here are some steps I would take:

Buy 20 Rental Properties: Immediate financial stability is essential. By investing in rental properties, I can generate a continuous income stream to support my education and future goals. Create an Office and Foundation: After securing the income, the next step would be to establish a base of operations and a charitable foundation to support my vision for giving back. Employing experts to help flesh out all the plans will be crucial.

Creating an Island of Wellness and Luxury

I would also consider the allure of owning an island. Imagining the luxury of having a private, modern island complete with all the top amenities, a large ship to transport me to different destinations, would be nothing short of a dream come true. Here are some steps to make this a reality:

Purchase an Island: Secure the rights to an island with modern conveniences not easily accessible to most. Ship with Elegance: Keep a large ship or boat ready for when I want to explore different places. Charity and Tax Benefits: Donate the island to my favorite charity and potentially receive a tax refund, allowing me to spend on more philanthropic initiatives.

Political Change through Financial Backing

Another option to explore is the funding of a political revolution. Imagine creating an alternative political party - a centrist party dedicated to bettering the lives of regular Americans and addressing real issues like infrastructure. Here are some actions:

Support Former Military Leaders: Invite experienced military personnel to run for office and ensure they serve two terms. Apprenticeship Programs: Create apprenticeship opportunities to train future leaders and ensure the continuation of service to the country.

Investment Strategies for Wealth and Philanthropy

With a blank check, you have the unique opportunity to explore various investment strategies. Here are some options:

US Treasury Bills

Investing in US Treasury bills offers significant advantages. You can earn roughly $20 million annually with minimal effort and a return of $1 billion at the end of the term. This is a low-risk strategy that can provide a stable income.

Stock Market and Dividends

For those knowledgeable in stock markets, purchasing dividend-paying shares from solid companies can be another excellent option. Dividends provide a steady income, and if you pick the right stocks, you might even see capital appreciation.

Rental Properties and International Holdings

Consider purchasing residential and commercial rental properties. These can offer passive income streams, allowing you to support charitable endeavors or enjoy financial security. Alternatively, you could use the funds to purchase assets in other currencies, such as the GBP or EUR, to live comfortably or even potentially make a profit from currency fluctuations.

Real Estate and Elite Locations

If the blank check truly means a single unit of property, investing in top real estate markets such as Manhattan or Central London can be a wise decision. These locations often offer the best return on investment and can be held for long-term appreciation.

Concluding Thoughts

With a blank check, the possibilities are endless. Whether you seek personal enrichment, significant social impact, or a blend of both, the right strategy can help you achieve your goals. Whether it's buying rental properties, supporting political change, or simply making strategic investments, the key is to align your goals with financial wisdom and ethical considerations. The world is yours to shape.