Talking up Tel Aviv

Israel is awash with companies - many in the high-tech sector - eager to make equity and debt issues. Not surprisingly, foreign banks are beginning to establish local bases. The snag for the local capital market is that much of the listing is being done abroad, particularly on Nasdaq. Nick Kochan reports on efforts to bring some of it home.

Despite political and diplomatic uncertainties and a volatile economy Israel appears to be selling its investment story to international capital markets. “There is a lot more banking activity in all directions,” says Ron Lubash, Lehman Brothers managing director for Israel. “The country has opened up. You see a whole slew of new companies and new issuers.” Lehman predicts at least six new debt issues in the coming year. “There is a general acceptance of Israel shifting to the debt market,” says Lubash.

Access intelligence that drives action

To unlock this research, enter your email to log in or enquire about access