No president in the history of the United States has had quite the same business empire as Donald Trump. But as president, he must relinquish any control he has of his assets to reduce the potential of any conflicts of interest. However, the way he's going about this transfer is causing a lot of controversy stateside.

From tower blocks to golf courses, Donald Trump has built a global business empire like no other U.S. president.

A portfolio of companies spanning the globe that are now fueling concerns about how President Trump can separate business and politics,

Just two weeks before the election Donald Trump opened his latest luxury hotel a few minutes walk from the White House here in downtown Washington. He won a contract from the U.S. government to lease the Old Post Office and Clock Tower for the next 60 years, And for some, that now makes him both landlord and tenant.

He's not the first president to face this dilemma. 

But where even Republican predecessors such as George W Bush and Ronald Reagan sold off their business interests to avoid conflicts of interest, Trump will hand over his to his children though he doesn't appear to be clear on the definition.

His organisation told CCTV this management transfer to three of his children would comply with all rules and regulations

Democracy campaigners disagree.

"If we saw this kind of arrangement discussed in other countries, particularly in Africa or other parts of the world where you're going to see a president and his family running the business, we would consider that one of the features of a banana republi," said Meredith Megehee, campaign legal center strategic adviser.

Key supporters insist there will be enough checks and balances

There's no legal obligation for Trump to put his businesses into blind trusts.

But critics say it's crucial for Trump's overseas interests. 

Four years ago, the President-elect opened new property in Turkey -- one of the most geopolitically sensitive places in the world.

"Making foreign policy is something that is solely within the power of the President, so he has a wide ranging portfolio. And if there is going to be a discussion made about something that is affecting a foreign country that is where the conflict potentially arises," Meredith Megehee said.

As the ethical discussion continues, Trump continues to develop his business empire a new hotel brand launched shortly before the election.