Son is 16, best friend is 17, they go to the same high school. Best friend’s family’s wealthy. He bought son a brand new iPhone 16 Pro Max & a pair of AirPods Pro 2, so they can “match”. Son’s obviously very happy, but I think it’s a bit too much. I called the parents and they said it’s fine, it’s just pocket change.
Think on gifting him something inexpensive for you, bake them something or something like inviting your son’s friend to dinner at home. It’s healthy to reciprocate within your economic situation. That way it doesn’t become charity.
This. And I’d bet there is something that OP can easily do that the rich kid/his family are not used to.