Frequently Asked Questions

Find clear answers to common questions on taxes, investments, and financial planning for expats navigating life abroad.

Do you plan around Bank of Israel regulations on foreign currency?

Absolutely. All transfers, investments, and accounts are structured in accordance with Bank of Israel regulations. We stay current with evolving rules to ensure every client’s financial plan remains compliant, transparent, and optimized for both jurisdictions.

How do you advise clients on transferring large sums from the U.S. to Israel?

We guide clients through each step of transferring funds between the U.S. and Israel to ensure the process is efficient, secure, and fully compliant. This includes advising on documentation, ensuring the source of funds is properly declared, and preparing Israeli banks in advance to avoid unnecessary delays or compliance issues.

Do you have relationships with Israeli banks for better rates?

Yes. We conduct foreign exchange transactions in-house for our clients, but we also maintain working relationships with Israeli banks and can assist in negotiating favorable rates when necessary. In some cases, clients with higher transaction volumes can benefit from preferential exchange terms.

Can you recommend U.S. banks that work well with Israeli residents?

Most U.S. banks have limited capabilities for clients residing overseas due to regulatory restrictions. However, we can recommend specific financial institutions and custodians that are experienced in serving U.S. citizens living abroad and can accommodate cross-border needs such as international transfers and account access.

How do you address exchange rate volatility in retirement planning?

Exchange rate fluctuations can significantly affect retirees living abroad. We take this into account when creating retirement income plans by modeling different currency scenarios, diversifying income sources, and ensuring sufficient liquidity in both shekels and dollars. This helps stabilize your income despite market or currency changes.

Can you set up multi-currency accounts?

Yes, we can assist in establishing multi-currency investment accounts that allow you to hold both shekels and U.S. dollars. While we are not a bank, our investment platforms are designed to support multiple currencies, offering flexibility for clients with cross-border financial lives.

Do you help with opening Israeli bank accounts?

Yes, we can assist you throughout the process of opening an Israeli bank account. While the requirements and procedures vary by institution, our familiarity with Israeli banking systems allows us to guide you efficiently through documentation, compliance, and setup.

Can you recommend currency exchange services in Israel?

Yes. In fact, we perform currency exchanges for our clients directly as part of our service offering. This often provides better rates and greater convenience than traditional banks or retail exchange providers, especially for clients moving significant amounts between the U.S. and Israel.

Do you have strategies for minimizing currency exchange losses?

Yes. We develop tailored strategies for each client to help reduce the impact of currency conversion costs. This can include timing transfers strategically, consolidating exchanges to minimize fees, or using multi-currency investment platforms that reduce the need for frequent conversions.

How do you help clients manage money across shekels and U.S. dollars?

We provide comprehensive investment solutions in both U.S. dollars and Israeli shekels. Our goal is to simplify your financial life by ensuring your assets are managed efficiently in both currencies. This allows you to maintain flexibility in spending, investing, and withdrawing funds in the currency that best supports your lifestyle and needs.

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