Economy

The Swiss bank estimates that Europe will continue to face inflation and energy pressures, but identifies potential in stocks and bonds, and estimates that Trump's tariffs will not lead to another sharp spike in the cost of living.

The European Central Bank has kept interest rates at 2.25% despite rising energy prices, citing concerns over a potential deep recession in the eurozone. The decision carries significant implications for global and Israeli capital markets.

Recipients of long-term benefits will receive their funds on Tuesday, including disability, long-term care, and survivor benefits. Simultaneously, the National Insurance Institute has announced a 100% waiver on interest and linkage for employers settling debts.

The leading retail chain is offering special prices at its Bnei Brak branch ahead of the new school year, alongside significant discounts on sought-after electrical appliances, mobility scooters, portable air conditioners, and a cordless vacuum-mop from Roborock.

Trading in Tel Aviv opened with mixed results as dual-listed chip stocks declined due to arbitrage gaps, while the financial and real estate sectors traded higher amid global market optimism.

At the start of the week, amid expectations for the Fed's interest rate decision, the dollar is retreating in both global and local markets. The dollar is down 0.2% against the shekel, trading below 3.05.

The lottery has concluded, and soon nearly two thousand reservists will receive notification that their apartment is on the way. How much will an apartment cost in Yehud versus Rishon, where are the lowest prices, and who is set to become a millionaire?

Real estate investment fund Marathon is finalizing a 750 million shekel raise for its second investment fund. Originally targeting 600 million shekels, the fund increased the amount due to strong investor demand.

Mega Or has purchased a 15.6-dunam plot from Schnapp's subsidiary, Keslev, for 95 million shekels. The acquisition will expand the company's planned large-scale data center campus in Hadera.

Oil prices fell sharply after Iran announced a suspension of attacks, provided the US maintains a cessation of hostilities. Meanwhile, investors are bracing for the Fed's interest rate decision and a busy week of earnings reports.

Promotional campaigns like "Apartment as a Gift," digital tenders, and deep discounts are being used by developers to combat housing market stagnation. However, buyers remain cautious, and banks are scrutinizing deals under a microscope, refusing to recognize "on-paper" sales.

Due to the rising valuation and revenue requirements for issuers on Wall Street, Jefferies recommends that Israeli tech companies begin their public life in Tel Aviv, and later register overseas.

Local refining companies have faced a challenging year marked by operational disruptions and the impacts of war. Despite these hurdles, a sharp surge in refining margins has led to a doubling of the value of Bazan and BAZA shares year-to-date, providing significant returns for shareholders.

The collaboration between Israeli insurance companies and global asset management giants like BlackRock, Fidelity, and State Street has faced headwinds. Assets in these savings policies have dropped from a peak of 4 billion shekels to less than 1.2 billion.

The Ackerstein Group is acquiring an 85% controlling interest in EcoWall from the Tidhar Group and other shareholders. The deal is valued at 47 million shekels, with EcoWall's total valuation at 55 million shekels.

The strengthening of the shekel has made travel cheaper, but choosing the right payment method is crucial to avoid hidden fees. Understanding the difference between bank accounts, currency wallets, and credit cards can save families thousands of shekels.

The management and staff of Rav-Bariach have expressed their deep condolences to CFO Asaf Even-Haim following the passing of his father, Salomon Even-Haim. Members of the business community have joined in offering their support to the family.

The pharmacy chain is launching a special sale for LifeStyle club members, including 1+1 promotions on leading brands, discounts on diapers and baby products, and toiletries at reduced prices in branches and on the website.

The gap between the education system and the economy hits the middle class again: a new AllJobs survey reveals the true price of summer - every extra day at home is deducted directly from the salary.

The expected rise in fuel prices, labor shortages, and global economic pressures are shifting forecasts. Leader Capital Markets explains why an interest rate cut in Israel remains unlikely in the near term.

Starting August 3, a large-scale recruitment drive will begin for tens of thousands of workers for various roles ahead of the elections. The salary for polling station secretaries will range from 2,700 to 3,000 shekels, subject to meeting threshold conditions.

Online fashion giant Shein has published a draft prospectus for its Hong Kong IPO. Financial results reveal a decline in profitability following the US cancellation of customs duty exemptions on low-value shipments.

Following reports from Google and Tesla that dampened sentiment due to massive AI capital expenditures, the market now faces the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision and earnings from Microsoft, Meta, and Apple, alongside two major Israeli firms.

The shekel's exchange rate reflects Israel's national resilience, combining geopolitics, security, and technological power. However, rapid currency appreciation poses strategic risks to export profitability and the innovation base.

Scribe Therapeutics stock recorded a sharp jump of nearly 49% on its first day of trading following a successful IPO pricing. Global pharmaceutical giants Sanofi and Eli Lilly have allocated significant capital to invest in the company.

Eyal Shina, formerly Chief Investment Officer at Kasem, has been appointed VP of Investments at Pasternak-Shoham. This move is part of the firm's strategic effort to build infrastructure for continued growth.

Electronics retail chains report an unusual surge in parents rushing to purchase advanced technological devices to track their children following a recent incident at an Ashkelon beach.

The Osher Ad retail chain is once again disrupting the market with significant discounts on summer essentials and home appliances. The latest deals are currently featured at their Talpiot branch in Jerusalem.

The Government Companies Authority urges former Monday employees to consider defense industry roles. Also: Eldan's branch redesign and Cellcom's new partnership with HBO Max.

A little-known Chinese company has become a Wall Street sensation, surging hundreds of percent without material news. We analyze whether this is a genuine opportunity or a dangerous trap.

The National Insurance Institute (Bituach Leumi) has announced the distribution date for long-term allowances. On July 28, eligible recipients, including pensioners, individuals with disabilities, and those receiving long-term care benefits, will receive their payments.

Gabi Rotter, who led the fashion group for decades and was a partner in extensive business moves, will take on the role of Chairman of the Executive Committee of Shenkar College, replacing Yoav Horowitz.

Investors have increased bets that the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates by 0.25% at its upcoming meeting. The probability has risen to 38% amid surging oil prices due to the escalation of the Iranian war.

Logistics giants UPS and FedEx are investing millions in refrigerated facility upgrades to accommodate the transport of weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic.

Robert Kiyosaki advises against holding cash savings and US bonds, explaining why he is moving his assets into Swiss vaults and decentralized digital currencies like Bitcoin.

The Tax Authority and the Ministry of Finance are preparing to expand the 'Israel Invoices' reform, planning to mandate allocation numbers for all transactions, regardless of amount, to combat fictitious invoicing.

The month of July brought good news with a drop in fuel prices, but the upcoming update is expected to cancel it out almost completely. Drivers in Israel will feel the blow to their pockets as early as the beginning of next month, despite the tax safety net.

In collaboration with the Central Elections Committee, a major recruitment drive for logistics, ushering, and support roles will begin in about a week, connecting national staffing needs with job seekers across the country.

Transactions over 15 million pounds have surged by 79%, yet the broader luxury market is losing buyers, with average city prices falling by 3.7%. High taxes, interest rates, and supply levels are creating opportunities for cash-ready buyers with strong negotiation skills.

The owner of the Jerusalem sabich stand "Ha-Sabichiya shel Yigal" is challenging a Tax Authority demand for 132,000 NIS in additional VAT. The dispute focuses on waste rates and production losses.