Every penny you save in a pension fund, every dollar that makes up your retirement nest egg, has a story. But, often, we don’t ask, ‘where is our pension money coming from?’ Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on a controversial issue that many might not be aware of – the ethics of investment practices, particularly concerning Israeli Bonds.

Israeli Bonds: High Security to Junk Level Stocks

Israeli Bonds have traditionally been viewed as secure investments. However, as noted by one of the meeting participants, these bonds have recently slipped to junk level stocks. This shift is primarily due to their negative impact on Palestine, and groups like BDS and AFSC are advocating for increased awareness of these issues.

The Unseen Impact of Investments

As Carlo, a meeting attendee, pointed out, ‘usually companies that are bad for Palestine are bad in general.’ This includes poor working conditions, harmful environmental practices, and questionable policies. The ethical implications of these investments stretch beyond the borders of Palestine, impacting the global community.

Looking at the UK’s LGPS

Let’s take a closer look at the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) in the UK, which currently has 6 million members and 81 different pension pools. In an alarming revelation, it was found that LGPS invested $250 million USD in Israeli bonds, accounting for 5% of the 2024 Israeli Bonds, raising serious ethical questions.

The Role of Speaking Up

Animah Kosai, a lawyer turned activist, based in Nottingham, UK, is focused on encouraging people to speak up about such issues. She emphasizes the power of voice in transforming business practices and creating spaces that respect human rights and ethical considerations.

Conclusion

Investment practices are more than just a means to grow wealth. They have far-reaching implications that can influence societal structures and human rights. It’s time we all start asking ‘where is our pension money coming from?’ and demand ethical investment practices.

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