NYC comptroller backtracks on buying Israeli bonds by saying they aren't a good investment
NYC comptroller backtracks on buying Israeli bonds by saying they aren't a good investment Submitted by MEE staff on Thu, 10/15/2026 - 18:13 Mark Levine said New York City is still assessing Israeli bonds, but for now, he is holding off, citing 'technical challenges' New York City comptroller Mark Levine speaks during the annual New York State Financial Control Board meeting in New York City, on…
New York City's comptroller, Mark Levine, has reversed his stance on purchasing Israeli bonds, citing concerns over the country's financial situation. Levine, a vocal supporter of Israel, had previously pledged to buy the bonds, arguing that the decision would be based solely on financial considerations. However, he has now decided against the move, citing "technical challenges" and "financial risks" as reasons for his decision.
Levine's decision is not influenced by political issues such as Israel's occupation of the West Bank or the conflict in Gaza, but rather by its economic conditions. The comptroller's stance on buying Israeli bonds became a point of contention in January 2026 when he indicated his intention to purchase the bonds due to their economic performance.
Since then, the city's pension fund has held approximately $39 million in Israeli bonds, which have generated returns of around five percent. Levine's decision to backtrack comes amid several credit rating downgrades for Israeli bonds, with Moody's downgrading them in 2024 as an "increasingly risky investment."
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