The Jerusalem Post Miami Summit, to be held in partnership with The Shul of Bal Harbour and Israel Discount Bank on January 13, will explore the most pressing issues facing the Jewish and Israeli communities today, with a forward-looking focus on innovation, leadership, and global impact. The city of Miami, which is home to one of the most vibrant, influential, and pro-Israel Jewish communities in the United States, is the ideal location for this important conference, which will bring together prominent voices from government, business, diplomacy, and community leadership, discussing the future of Diaspora Jewry, Israel’s role globally, and US-Israel relations.
The Summit will be led by Avi Levy, President and CEO of Israel Discount Bank, one of the country’s leading financial institutions and a key pillar of the Israeli economy, that serves millions of private customers and thousands of businesses in Israel and abroad. The bank offers a full spectrum of services – from checking accounts, credit, and savings to advanced financing solutions and personalized financial guidance – supporting both everyday banking needs and long-term growth.
In recent years, Discount has positioned itself at the forefront of Israel’s modern banking revolution, with major investments in digital innovation and customer experience. At a time of economic uncertainty and global change, the bank continues to emphasize transparency, professional guidance, and close partnerships with its clients – a message it brings to the Jerusalem Post Miami Summit as part of a broader conversation about resilience, growth, and Israel’s economic future.
In his keynote remarks, Levy will discuss the strength of the Israeli economy and IDB’s role in rebuilding Israeli society during the war. Speaking ahead of the conference, Levy said, “Israel’s economy has shown remarkable resilience amid a global economic slowdown and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. Forged through a horrific war and at immense cost, Israel was not weakened. On the contrary, the resilience of Israeli society and the agility of its private sector have enabled the country to emerge stronger, more stable, and more determined to succeed. Even after more than two years of conflict, Israel has maintained macroeconomic stability, continued to invest in innovation, preserved employment levels, and sustained growth under extraordinary pressure.
“Looking ahead, Israel has significant potential for accelerated growth, particularly through deeper regional integration under the Abraham Accords, expanded trade ties, and joint initiatives in technology and infrastructure. Realizing this potential will require focus, discipline, and effective execution. Investor confidence – both domestic and international – depends on the rule of law, transparent governance, strong and independent institutions, and regulatory certainty. These are essential foundations for sustainable growth and for strengthening Israel’s position as a regional economic hub and a global destination for long-term investment.”
Avner Mendelson, President and CEO of Israel Discount Bank New York, will also address the conference and discuss the synergy between the Israeli and US economies. Commenting on the significance of Israeli and American economic cooperation, he said, “Nearly 90% of our clients are entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses, spanning first, second, and third generations. These are not large corporate brands; their personal identity is deeply intertwined with their business. That’s why they care so much about who makes the decisions and who will be there to support them when challenges arise.
“We see ourselves as a true bridge between Israel and the United States – supporting Israeli entrepreneurs as they grow in the American market, connecting US investors with opportunities in Israel, and providing funding sources to Israeli companies operating here. Beyond business, being part of the broader bond between US Jewish communities and Israel gives our work a deeper sense of purpose.”
Sagy Aseraf, President, Private Banking & Wealth Management at Israel Discount Bank New York, addressed the bank’s activities in the US, noting that, “Five years ago, before the COVID-19 pandemic, we made a strategic decision to expand our international operations to Florida. In recent years, Miami has become a global hub, a gateway to South America, and a magnet for international clients. The area has experienced rapid technological growth, a trend that has accelerated since COVID-19, as leading companies relocated to Florida due to its business-friendly regulatory environment. This has helped build a vast, diverse, and dynamic tech community.
“Discount Bank offers a unique service rarely found in the banking system: an American bank under Israeli ownership that operates in the US, with a significant presence in New York, Florida, and California, deep activity in Israel, and representatives in South America. This structure allows us to be a true one-stop shop, offering private banking, tech banking, and commercial banking services under one roof.
“In Florida, we have developed comprehensive banking capabilities, covering all aspects of financial services. Our commitment goes beyond being a financial institution; our role is to enable, strengthen, and drive the activities and success of Israeli companies operating in the US.”
Written in collaboration with Bank Discount