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Apple CEO Tim Cook heads directly to the point: “It’s 24-karat gold… I’ll take the liberty of setting it up.” A visibly captivated Donald Trump responds with a “Wow” as Cook arranges a one-of-a-kind gift for the President — a custom-engraved glass piece crafted by Corning, the company behind the iPhone’s glass, mounted on a gold base.
This moment, which took place on Wednesday in the Oval Office, highlights one of many extravagant gestures by global leaders and industry giants seeking to curry favor with Trump. Known for his fondness for opulence—evidenced by his gilded office redesign—and his preference for bold fonts with his name, Trump’s tastes did not go unnoticed by Cook. The Apple CEO is aware of Trump’s criticism over Apple’s manufacturing practices and occasional threats to penalize the tech giant, especially since Trump has publicly condemned Apple for not producing its flagship iPhones domestically.
In addition to committing to a $100 billion U.S. investment, Cook presented a US-made gift: a glass disc manufactured in Kentucky by a former Marine now working at Apple, symbolizing American craftsmanship.
On a more serious note, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet recently nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. The praise stems from Trump’s ‘visionary and innovative diplomacy’ and his alleged role in promoting global peace. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, aiming to maintain Washington’s backing amid ongoing conflicts, also nominated Trump, alongside Pakistan. The Nobel decision is anticipated in October.
These nominations come amid Trump’s protectionist trade policies, which have included imposing steep tariffs on numerous international partners. Some foreign officials and business leaders seem to have a better understanding of how Trump’s mind works. For instance, in late February, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer brought a letter from King Charles III inviting Trump on an official visit, reflecting Trump’s known admiration for royalty. During a Scotland trip, Starmer also visited Trump’s golf courses, further demonstrating a nuanced approach to U.S.-UK relations.
Meanwhile, Switzerland faces some of the highest tariffs, with nearly 60% of its exports to the U.S. affected by a 39% levy. Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter’s urgent Washington visit to address these issues was unproductive, with Trump remarking, “I did something with Switzerland the other day. I talked to their prime minister. She was nice, but she didn’t want to listen.” By contrast, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, a dual Swiss-Italian citizen, was warmly received at the White House, notably presenting Trump with a large FIFA Club World Cup trophy in March, which remained in the Oval Office for weeks.
Perhaps the most talked-about gift, however, was from Qatar—a Boeing 747, slated for conversion into Air Force One. Trump dismissed Democratic opposition concerns, calling it “stupid” not to accept the aircraft, valued around $400 million, emphasizing its strategic importance amid critics’ concerns.
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