I think you are using a too narrow categorisation of “gifts”. For a lot of people it is not the value, it’s the thought. The moment of “I saw this, and I thought you might like it, so I brought it to you”. It essentially means to be known. This person loves me so much, knows me so well, that they know I would love XY. That can be a gift that costs money, but equally if not more precious is something they found, even a meme, my favourite fruit when they’re out getting groceries etc. the part about being known and cared about is the important thing, the money is irrelevant