Helping to irrigate Australasia
Israel’s CropX (see previously) has launched its Actual ET sensor in Australia and New Zealand. This first-of-its-kind sensor monitors real-time plant water use in a field through evapo-transpiration (ET). It integrates with CropX’s farm management system for efficient irrigation.
Look who’s using Israeli-created avatars
Israel’s D-ID (see previously) has launched Personal Avatars that can generate digital agents indistinguishable from real people. D-ID’s clients include PepsiCo, AXA, Lenovo, J.P. Morgan, Softbank, Warner Bros and many more. See also D-ID’s ethics pledge.
Startup investment – to 8/12/24
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Exits, mergers & acquisitions – to 8/12/24
Israel’s has acquired UK’s Capitalab for .
From IDF Chief to deep tech VC
Aviv Kohavi left his job as IDF Chief of Staff in Jan 2023. He has now reportedly joined Israeli-Canadian investment company Awz Ventures, which specializes in deep tech.
Second bounce for Omri Caspi’s fund
When Israel’s Omri Casspi retired from the NBA circuit, he founded Swish Ventures. Swish has raised $60 million for its second fund, aiming to invest in around 10 Israeli startups. Swish already manages around $125 million in assets. Portfolio companies include PointFive, Eon and Upwind.
Outsized returns
US investment firm Ibex Investors recognizes “the opportunity to make outsized returns in Israel” with the close of its 5th Israel-focused fund with $40 million. Ibex Chief Investment Officer Justin Borus said, “We believe Israel will be among the best places in the world to invest over the next 10 years."
Cow-free milk for Israel
Israel’s Imagindairy (see previously) like Israel’s Remilk before it (see ) has received Health Ministry approval to sell its cow-free milk in Israel. Its animal-free whey protein can now safely be used to produce dairy-free cream cheese, ice cream, yogurt, etc.
Six flights a week to Luton
Israel’s Israir has begun a six flights a week service between Tel Aviv and London Luton. Israir’s sales VP said, “allowing Israeli business travellers and vacationers to fly this highly sought-after route at a fair price.” It may also help this newsletter editor see his family more often!
Startup investment – to 1/12/24
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(already a Unicorn) raised from BlackRock;
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raised (IPO);