Rewards for using local businesses
Customers using the Colu app (reported previously) to purchase goods and services in Israel during the Covid-19 pandemic, contributed $4 million to local businesses from March to May. Business owners reported that some 30 percent of their economic activity came from Colu users.
Investing in Israeli startups
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Electronic visas for Botswana
The government of Botswana has selected Israel’s Pangea (reported previously) to integrate its eVisa solution as part of Botswana’s efforts to expand its digital and online services. The online visa will enable visitors to Botswana have a seamless entry into the country.
Remote working increases Check Point profits
Israeli cybersecurity giant Check Point reported increased quarterly net profit, beating market expectations. Check Point’s revenue was boosted by increased demand for network security as more people work remotely during the coronavirus outbreak.
Ford partners Mobileye for sensors
Israel-based Mobileye is to provide its EyeQ family of devices plus vision-processing software to the Ford Motor Company. EyeQ includes Lane-keeping and Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking. Ford will display Mobileye’s name on SYNC driver-assist displays.
New profession – Medical Data Analyst
In these days of a global pandemic, Medical big data analysts have become one of the most sought-after professions. In Israel, there are currently about 500 people who know how to derive insights from medical data, and the demand for them is increasing.
Japanese investment increases
Despite Covid-19, Japanese investment in Israeli tech is on the rise. The total volume of Japanese investments in the first half of this year amounted to $472.3 million, up 15% from $412 million in the first half of 2019.
Strong trade links with Czech Republic
Since renewing diplomatic relations between Israel and the Czech Republic 30 years ago, mutual trade has boomed. Israel imports over $1 billion of Czech goods annually. The Czech Republic meanwhile seeks Israeli cybersecurity, digital health and Industry 4.0 innovations.
Another $8 million for US-Israeli projects
The Israel-U.S. BIRD Foundation is investing $8 million in 10 new automotive, cybersecurity, healthcare, and other joint US-Israeli projects. The Israeli companies are AEYE Health, Aeronautics, Datumate, Firedome, Genoox, Redler, Senso, Serenus.AI, VayaVision and XRHealth.
Transforming greenhouse production
Israel’s Prospera (see previously) is partnering German giant Bayer to help improve greenhouse output. Prospera’s AI and big data monitors the production of $5 trillion worth of agricultural produce. Bayer says the partnership will help transform grower operations.