Capital Market

Despite a slew of negative economic indicators, the unemployment rate in Israel has managed to maintain its favorable position, according to data released by the Central Bureau of Statistics. The unemployment rate dropped even further in July, reaching an impressive 3.4%, a slight decline from June's rate of 3.5%. This equates to 155.5 thousand unemployed individuals, compared to 158.1 thousand the previous month

Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the month of July rose by 0.3%, slightly lower than early forecasts had anticipated. This increase in the index has led to a sharp decline in the annual inflation rate over the past 12 months, now standing at 3.3%. This decline is bringing the inflation rate closer to the target range set by the Bank of Israel, which aims for an inflation rate between 1% and 3%

Ashstrom Group, a prominent player in the construction and infrastructure sector with a market value of around NIS 5.5 billion, has released its financial results for the second quarter and the first half of 2023. Despite a challenging business environment, the company demonstrated stability and growth across its diverse portfolio

In the period between June and August of 2023, a substantial surge of approximately 84% was recorded in the number of requests from companies seeking court assistance. These companies were grappling with financial distress and were requesting immediate appointment of officials to oversee their affairs. This marks a significant uptick compared to the same period in 2022. The data, compiled by Insolvency Commissioner D. and CPA Asher Engelman, also revealed a distinction in the nature of requests during this timeframe

Israel's unemployment rate plummeted to 3.1% in August, down from 3.4% the previous month, as reported by the Central Bureau of Statistics. This unexpected decline comes at a time when the nation faces a slew of economic challenges, including a weakening shekel, high-interest rates, a slowing economy, and a high-tech crisis, all while grappling with inflation exceeding government targets

In a recent inspection conducted by the fintech company Bizzy during the first quarter of 2023, concerning the financial health of small businesses in Israel, startling revelations have emerged. The inspection, which encompassed nearly 1,000 bank accounts representing approximately 800 small businesses, has shed light on the critical role of credit lines, their utilization, and the associated costs

In the wake of the ongoing "Iron Swords" war, the Ministry of Finance has announced plans to allocate billions of shekels to finance the conflict. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has expressed concerns about the government's delayed response in addressing budgetary needs during the crisis

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has sounded the alarm on the deceleration of the global economy's recovery, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Israel. The New York Times highlights the IMF's concerns, pointing to the increasing challenges in safeguarding against unforeseen global economic shocks

In a heartfelt response to the ongoing challenges faced by children and teenagers affected by the recent conflict in Israel, Discount Bank has announced the establishment of the "Keren Or" fund. This dedicated aid fund, established in partnership with a mercantile bank, will provide NIS 50 million to address the complex needs of these young individuals, focusing on physical and emotional healing and community security