NEW YORK, N.Y. — The Israeli flag flew atop the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday, Nov. 10 in celebration of the 10th annual AIFL Israel Day. Organized by the America-Israel Friendship League (AIFL), the day is intended to recognize the Jewish state’s prominence on Wall Street.

Israel, which ranks as the largest foreign presence at the NYSE outside of China and Canada, today has more than 80 Israeli equities currently listed on exchanges around the world in a vast array of industries, with more than 70 on Wall Street alone.

“Today is such an important day, as we showcase Israeli innovation and what the country exports to the NYSE and to the world,” said AIFL Chairman Kenneth Bialkin.

The day consisted of two panel discussions. The first was comprised of four pioneering Israeli women recognized for their significant contributions to the U.S.–Israel relationship in the fields of business, economy, science, high-tech and fashion. The second highlighted the hot market trends coming out of Israel and the booming lucrative investments that the country holds.

“Investing in Israel is good for your portfolio in terms of returns and diversification,” said Steven Schoenfeld, CEO of Bluestar Indexes, a financial firm specializing in Israeli capital markets and a partner in the event. “One should invest in Israel not just to support the Jewish State, but because it is a solid investment that historically has outperformed most other international equity investments over the past three, five, and ten years.”

CAP: On the floor of the NY Stock Exchange: four Israeli women who were recognized for their achievements. (l to r) Liat Mordechay Hertanu, co-founder of 24me; Karen Haruvi, SVP Global Generic Business Development and Alliance Management for Teva Pharmaceuticals; Tzameret Fuerst, entrepreneur and co-founder of Circ MedTech; and Noa Raviv, fashion designer and artist. Photo credit: Shahar Azran