Israel Securities Authority (ISA)

Basic Information

The Israel Securities Authority (ISA) is the national regulatory body overseeing securities and capital markets in Israel. Established in 1968 under the Securities Law, the ISA operates under the jurisdiction of the Israeli Ministry of Finance. Its headquarters are located at 22 Kanfei Nesharim Street, Jerusalem, Israel. The ISA’s primary mission is to ensure market transparency, fairness, and investor protection while combating financial fraud, insider trading, and market manipulation.

Historical Background

Securities trading in Israel began as early as 1935, even before the state’s establishment in 1948. The Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) officially commenced operations in 1953, and by 1968, the Knesset enacted the Securities Law, formally creating the ISA as the regulatory framework for Israel’s capital markets. The ISA’s structure and principles were heavily influenced by U.S. securities laws developed after the 1929 Wall Street crash.

Legal Authority and Regulatory Framework

The ISA derives its authority from Israel’s Securities Law (1968) and subsequent amendments. It enforces compliance with securities regulations, including anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) measures. The ISA also regulates financial disclosures, investment services, and market conduct, ensuring adherence to international standards such as the IOSCO principles.

Key Responsibilities and Regulatory Scope

The ISA supervises multiple financial sectors, including:

• Securities Market: Oversight of stock, bond, and derivative trading on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE).
• Investment Funds: Regulation of mutual funds, hedge funds, and portfolio management services.
• Corporate Disclosures: Ensuring listed companies provide accurate financial reports and timely disclosures.
• Financial Technology (FinTech): Monitoring blockchain-based assets and digital investment platforms.
• Investor Protection: Enforcing fair trading practices and investigating market abuse.

Contact Information

The ISA can be reached through the following channels:

• Address: Israel Securities Authority, 22 Kanfei Nesharim St., Jerusalem, 9546434, Israel
• Phone: +972 3 710 6200
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.isa.gov.il

How to Verify a Regulated Entity

Investors can confirm whether a financial service provider is authorized by the ISA through the following steps:

1. Visit the ISA’s official website (https://www.isa.gov.il).
2. Navigate to the “Licensed Entities” or “Regulatory Database” section.
3. Search by company name, license number, or financial activity type.
4. Cross-check registration details, including permitted services and compliance status.