Bank Hapoalim

Bank Hapoalim (Hebrew: בנק הפועלים‎ lit. The Workers' Bank) is Israel’s largest bank. The bank has a significant presence in global financial markets. In Israel, it has over 577 ATMs (automated teller machines), 280 bank branches, 8 regional business centers, 23 business branches and industry desks for major corporate customers.
The bank's stock is traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange.

History

The bank was established in 1921 by the Histadrut, the Israeli trade union congress (lit. "General Federation of Laborers in the Land of Israel") and the Zionist Organisation.

The bank was owned by the Histadrut until 1983, when it was nationalized following the Bank Stock Crisis. The bank was held by the Israeli government until 1996 when it was sold to a group of investors led by Ted Arison. During the period of government ownership the bank grew considerably to become the largest bank in Israel (a title previously held by Bank Leumi).

As of the end of 2011 the bank has 13,408 employees worldwide. It is controlled by Arison Holdings, which is owned by Shari Arison. Arison Holdings owns a total of 22.6 per cent of the bank. Other main investors include Delek Group (6.52 per cent) and IBD Holdings (5.03 per cent).