Florida Treasury is investing $25 million in Israel bonds, CFO says

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis announced Wednesday the Florida Treasury will invest an additional $25 million in Israel bonds to strengthen Florida’s relationship with Israel.

The announcement comes following terrorist attacks in Israel from Hamas, a terrorist organization backed by Shi’ite Iran.

“We made a commitment to support Israel both morally and monetarily, and that’s why I’m proud to announce that Florida will invest an additional $25 million in Israel bonds to further support our ally in the Middle East,” Patronis said.

The $25 million bond purchase brings Florida’s total current investment in Israel bonds to $80 million, the largest total ever held at one time by Florida.

“Florida and Israel have deep economic and personal ties, and our state unequivocally stands with Israel following the heinous Iran-backed terrorist attacks this week,” Patronis said.

Since 2017, the Florida Treasury has purchased $190 million in Israel bonds under Patronis’ direction to expand Florida’s investment portfolio as part of a long-range investment strategy and has generated approximately $6.4 million in interest from the investments, according to Patronis’ office.

“To the people of Israel, Israeli Americans, and Jewish Floridians across our state, Florida is proud to stand with you,” Patronis said. “I encourage other state treasurers across our country to support Israel by purchasing Israel bonds today.”

Israel Bonds Executive Director Mark Ruben thanked Patronis and Floridians for their “continued dedication to strengthening the Israel/Florida relationship.”

“Following the tragic and unprecedented terrorist attacks this week, Israel needs the support of our allies more than ever,” Ruben said. This bond purchase is a testament to the deep relationship between our two lands and people.”