In November 2025, Donald Trump was presented with a gold Rolex desk clock and a $130,000 engraved gold bar by a group of Swiss billionaires. This event has sparked discussions in both Europe and the United States about the potential personalization of U.S. presidential power.

Pasquale Tridico, an Italian Member of the European Parliament and former head of Italy’s National Institute for Social Security, expressed his disapproval, suggesting that the gifts indicated a troubling trend of foreign policy being influenced by individual relationships rather than national interests.

Lisa Mazzone, president of the Green Party in Switzerland, criticized the gifts as evidence of a corrupt influence on the Swiss elite, stating that it is unacceptable for the Swiss government to rely on the economic elite, which lacks democratic legitimacy, in negotiations with the U.S. President.

The gifts were reportedly given shortly before Trump announced a reduction in tariffs on Swiss imports from 39% to 15%. The Rolex clock, described as a modest expression of Swiss craftsmanship, was linked to a delegation that included Jean-Frédéric Dufour, the head of Rolex. The gold bar, marked with the numbers 45 and 47 to commemorate Trump's presidencies, was presented by Marwan Shakarchi, head of the Swiss gold refining company MKS.

Swiss publicist Hannes Britschgi characterized the gifts as undignified, while Doris Kleck, deputy editor in chief of CH Media, remarked on the necessity for Switzerland to appease Trump to gain his attention.

In response to the criticism, Swiss Economy Minister Guy Parmelin defended the lobbying efforts, asserting that the tariff reduction was a significant relief for Switzerland. A White House spokesperson denied any connection between the gifts and the tariff decision, claiming that Trump’s actions were guided solely by the interests of the American people. They noted that while presidents receive numerous gifts, they are typically recorded in the National Archives and may be retained or purchased by the president, subject to taxation.