Paper: Dania Thomas (ASBS) "Why are investors in a war committed with ‘genocidal intent’ bucking bond markets? Patriotism, Rational Calculation or Religious Passion” 
 
Wed. 26 February 2025 ‖  3:00-4:30pm  ‖  ARC 225  ‖  Global Political Economy cluster
 
Abstract: This paper analyzes the contrasting trends in Israel's bond financing post the October 2023 Hamas attack. While retail investors, particularly in the US, have increased their investments in Israel Bonds, driven by a mix of patriotism and high-yield returns, commercial bond markets have shown caution, reflected in rating downgrades and rising interest rates. This discrepancy raises questions about the underlying motivations for investing in Israel Bonds, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict and international condemnation of Israel's actions. The paper explores whether the appetite for these bonds can be attributed to a religious and political investment in a future Judeo-Christian state, rather than solely economic or patriotic factors. 

First published: 26 February 2025

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