In a stark reminder of the volatility gripping Israel's economy, the Central Bureau of Statistics has unveiled figures that signal a pronounced slowdown in economic growth during the second quarter of 2024. This deceleration comes on the heels of an extraordinary surge earlier in the year, illustrating the profound impact of ongoing geopolitical tensions and the lingering aftermath of conflict on the nation’s economic health.

19 August 2024

Read more: Israel's Economy Stalls in Q2 Amid Conflict & Credit Downgrades

Israel’s credit rating has suffered a significant blow, with Fitch Ratings downgrading the nation’s status amid escalating concerns surrounding the relentless war with Hamas and escalating geopolitical risks. This alarming downgrade marks a critical moment in Israel's financial and political landscape, emphasizing the severe economic repercussions of the ongoing conflict.

13 August 2024

Read more: War Taking Its Toll: Fitch Downgrades Israel’s Credit Rating & Outlook

Israel’s fiscal deficit has surged to a staggering 8.1 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), translating to NIS 8.5 billion ($2.2 billion) over the past 12 months, driven by the relentless funding of the prolonged war with Hamas and the intensified conflict with Hezbollah. These preliminary figures, released by the Finance Ministry, underscore the severe financial strain on the nation's economy.

08 August 2024

Read more: Israel's Deficit Hits 8.1% of GDP As Foreign Reserves Nears Record

Israeli markets took a significant hit on Sunday, reflecting not only the ripple effects of a global market downturn but also the looming threats from Iran and its regional proxies. The benchmark TA-35 stock index experienced a sharp drop of up to 2.7%, marking the steepest decline in a week. Though it managed to slightly recover, it remained down by approximately 2.5% shortly before 1 p.m. local time. It's important to note that the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange is closed on Fridays and Saturdays, meaning it often plays catch-up with global trends at the start of its trading week.

04 August 2024

Read more: Israeli Stocks Plunge Amid Global Selloff & Escalating Iran Threats

The recent high-profile eliminations of senior Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, Ismail Haniyeh and Fuad Shukr, have dramatically heightened tensions, casting a long shadow over Israel's security landscape. These strategic strikes have effectively thrust Israel into a precarious position, with the volatile resistance axis, spearheaded by Iran, now holding the initiative. The Iranian dimension is particularly critical; Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has ominously promised severe reprisals, potentially setting the stage for a widespread regional conflagration that could ignite into a multi-front, all-out war.

01 August 2024

Read more: Potential For Multi-Front War Increasing Economic Fears