While banks across Western nations entice customers with free checking, fee-less ATM withdrawals, and attractive incentives, Israeli banks have charted a path of their own—one paved with relentless fees, high-interest rates, and widespread consumer dissatisfaction. Ask any Israeli about their biggest financial grievance, and odds are they’ll point straight to the banking industry.
Read more: Leumi Overtakes Teva as the Largest Company on the TASE
In a resounding testament to Israel's financial resilience and global economic standing, the Ministry of Finance's Accountant General, Yali Rothenberg, successfully executed an international bond offering in London, securing a substantial $5 billion in capital. This latest issuance underscores the unwavering confidence of international investors in the Israeli economy, even amidst complex global challenges.
Read more: Israel Secures $5B in Bond Offering, Signaling Strong Investor Trust
In a stunning display of economic resilience, Israel’s average annual wage has skyrocketed to a historic high, nearing an unprecedented NIS 14,500 ($48,166.52). This marks a nearly 10% increase in just one month, as the average salary surged from NIS 13,068 in November 2024 to NIS 14,434 in December—smashing previous records and setting a new benchmark for Israeli workers.
Read more: Israel’s Average Wage Hits Record $48K as Economy Surges Forward
In a significant development for Israel’s banking sector, the Board of Directors of Bank Hapoalim has elected Noam Hanegbi as the next Chairman of the Bank's Board of Directors. This pivotal decision reflects the bank's confidence in Hanegbi’s unparalleled expertise, visionary leadership, and remarkable contributions to the financial and technological sectors. His appointment is pending the approval of the Banking Supervision Department.
Read more: Noam Hanegbi Named Chairman of Bank Hapoalim’s Board of Directors
In a remarkable display of economic confidence, Israel’s central bank governor, Amir Yaron, signaled a potential easing of monetary policy, projecting one or two interest rate cuts in the latter half of 2025. Speaking to US financial news network CNBC at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Yaron highlighted expectations that inflation, which has been running above the target range of 1% to 3%, will moderate significantly in the coming months.
Read more: Israel Eyes Economic Recovery with Inflation Control and Ceasefire Hope
