From left to right: Israel Bonds Philadelphia Real Estate Division Chairs Rob Odell, David Spoont, Anna Boni, Steve Gartner and Bruce Goodman at the podium. Photo credit: Jordan Cassway Photography
Israel Bonds Philadelphia’s annual Real Estate Power Lunch generated $45 million in investments for the Jewish state’s economy — money that will promote “long-term economic resilience,” according to Ari Sirner, the executive director of Israel Bonds Pennsylvania Region.
Over 250 people attended the Oct. 22 event at Philadelphia’s Bellevue Hotel, where the organization honored Rich Gottlieb, the president and chief operating officer of Keystone Development and Investment, for his years of leadership and commitment to Israel Bonds.
“His professional excellence, dedication to community, and unwavering support for the values that unite us exemplify the qualities of a true leader — one who not only drives success in business but also uses his influence to make a meaningful impact on the world,” Sirner wrote to Philadelphia Jewish Exponent. “Mr. Gottlieb’s commitment to Israel’s prosperity and security serves as an inspiration to all who share in the mission of building a stronger, more vibrant future for the Jewish people and the global community.”
He added that Gottlieb is an involved member of the local Jewish community on top of his real estate business, serving on the boards of the Jewish National Fund and Cheder Chabad of Philadelphia.
The organization said that the luncheon brought together leaders from the business and real estate industries who are working toward strengthening Israel through “economic solidarity,”
The money raised at the event is in the form of general obligation bonds. Sirner explained that the funding goes wherever it’s needed the most.
General obligation bonds are backed by a government’s credit and taxing ability to assure repayment on the bond and the interest it accrues over time.
Israel’s Accountant General Yali Rothenberg served as the keynote speaker for the event.
“Israel’s economy is strong and growing, and investors around the world recognize that,” Rothenberg said. “Every investment is an expression of confidence in Israel’s economy, its growth and its ability to continue leading forward — even in challenging times.”
Sirner said the $45 million investment total is in line with typical totals from the annual event and is significant because of the large amount of money that will be invested in Israel.
“It reflects the enduring generosity and commitment of the community, while also standing out as a powerful demonstration of continued confidence in Israel’s future,” he said.
He added that the attendance marked one of the event’s highest-ever turnouts, which he credited to the work of Gottlieb and several other contributors.
The Development Corporation for Israel, generally referred to as Israel Bonds, has worked for more than seven decades to strengthen Israel’s economy, raising some $55 billion, including more than $5.7 billion since the attacks of Oct. 7, 2023. But despite that gargantuan figure, Sirner said, “our mission is far from over.”
The organization said the luncheon showcased the Philadelphia community’s dedication to bolstering and shaping Israel’s future.
“Israel Bonds help fuel the nation’s continued development and success. These funds bolster Israel’s ability to invest in critical areas that contribute to a strong and self-sustaining economy. Beyond their economic impact, Israel Bonds also represent a meaningful connection between investors and the Jewish state — an expression of confidence in Israel’s resilience, growth, and future prosperity,” Sirner said.