Israeli Startup Exits Hit Record in Q3

November 20, 2017 | Israeli startup acquisitions by foreign investors from July-September 2017 have hit a record, posting its highest numbers since the dot.com bubble in 2000. Figures published by the Central Bureau of Statistics show startups volume reached an almost $1.6 billion peak in the third quarter. Research was also conducted by Harel Insurance Investments and Financial Services showing that the quarterly figure for exits is the highest reported in Israel other than in 2000 — 17 years ago. Harel chief economist Ofer Klein says this may be cause for concern for Israel’s economic leaders because once companies are moved out of the Israeli economy, future contribution will be lost. While sales of these companies bring dollars into the economy, they will be lacking in import and export accounts, exports of goods, and revenue, he said. [Photo: 3333873]