At New York City’s historic Cipriani 42nd Street on Nov. 13, the Israel Bonds Real Estate & Allied Division raised more than $61 million in Israel bond investments and indications.
The luncheon drew 400-plus participants, including many real estate and business powerhouses, to the event, which honored Adam Haber, Ackman-Ziff; Elie Hirschfeld, Hirschfeld Properties; and Marc Mechanic, Meadow Partners. Empty seats, adorned with photos of the kidnapped, paid special symbolic tribute to the 240 hostages taken during Hamas’s Oct. 7 terrorist attacks on Israel.
Lisa Silverstein, daughter of legendary real estate developer Larry Silverstein, said “the citizens of Israel are summoned to improve the lives of others. They are fueled with the purpose to progress. It’s a country that churns out leading innovations assisting the human capital around the world, from medicine to technology. Most importantly, it’s a nation first to assist in humanitarian efforts around the world when disaster strikes. It should be known as a ‘global treasure,’ recognized, defended, and protected as a necessity for everyone’s well-being. Investing in Israel is investing in the future.”
Stuart Garawitz, Israel Bonds vice president of national sales, implored attendees to reach out to family, friends, business associates, and corporations and ask them to support Israel through investments in Israel bonds; to those who have already purchased a bond, he encouraged them to buy more; and to anyone who has never bought a bond, he questioned, “If not now, when?”
“Never again is now,” Israel Bonds president and CEO Dani Naveh affirmed as he vowed that “we are going to continue to stand strong with Israel. We are going to continue to stand united in support of Israel. Am Yisrael Chai!” Naveh thanked the packed crowd, expressing gratitude in particular to New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli for his unwavering commitment to the Jewish state. DiNapoli received a standing ovation, noting that New York State purchased $70 million in Israel bonds immediately after the war broke out and more than $600 million in Israel bond investments over his tenure.
“Today, purchasing Israel bonds is more crucial than ever,” said Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan.
He proclaimed: “Israel is fighting for her future, and your investment sends a clear message to the world that you believe in the future of Israel. Despite all the hardships today, you know that Israel will prevail and that Israel is here forever.”
The landmark event came a week after Israel Bonds and its affiliates announced on Nov. 7 that they had secured more than $1 billion in bond investments and indications from investors since Oct. 7, fortifying Israel’s economy during wartime.
Development Corporation for Israel (known as Israel Bonds) and its affiliates around the world have generated more than $50 billion in investments since it was founded 72 years ago. Israel bonds are a smart investment with strong rates and are meaningful investments, serving as a symbolic connection with Israel and its people for Jews worldwide.
For more information, visit: www.israelbonds.com or email Steven Mark at: Steven.Mark@israelbonds.com.