New York State Comptroller DiNapoli to maintain Israel bond investments

New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has pledged to maintain investments in Israeli government bonds within the state’s $309.7 billion pension fund. This decision comes despite increasing pressure from pro-Palestinian activists to divest from Israel.

Currently, the New York State Common Retirement Fund holds more than $360 million in Israeli investments. A spokesperson for DiNapoli stated that the office continues to seek global investment opportunities, including in Israel, that will benefit the fund. DiNapoli, a Democrat seeking a fifth term, has also expressed interest in potentially expanding investments in Israeli companies.

This stance contrasts with New York City Comptroller Mark Levine, who recently decided against reinvesting city pension funds in Israel bonds, reversing a previous campaign pledge. Levine defended his decision on financial grounds, asserting that investment choices should be based on fiscal considerations rather than politics. The divergence in policy has drawn criticism from activists like Dov Hikind, who accused Levine of yielding to political pressure.