In the wake of mounting attention to the Israel-Palestine conflict, Benjamin Moore & Co., an enduring American paint and coatings manufacturer established in Brooklyn in 1883, is under heightened scrutiny. Its global footprint, which includes operations in Israel, coupled with its association with Berkshire Hathaway and Warren Buffett’s investments in Israeli ventures, prompts inquiries into the company’s position on the conflict and its potential backing of Israeli policies.
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Exploring Benjamin Moore’s Connection with Israel
Benjamin Moore & Co. displays an intricate connection with Israel, evident through its official Instagram presence in the country (@benjamin_moore_israel) and the acquisition by Berkshire Hathaway in 2001. Berkshire Hathaway’s investment strategy, led by Warren Buffett, includes substantial ventures in Israeli companies such as Teva Pharmaceutical and Iscar Metalworking.
Buffett’s admiration for Israel’s economy and his extensive investments in the country, coupled with Benjamin Moore’s indirect support through Berkshire Hathaway’s ownership, underscore the company’s economic ties with Israel. Consequently, consumers advocating for peace and anti-colonialism are urged to reconsider supporting Benjamin Moore & Co. due to its significant economic involvement with Israel.
- Benjamin Moore & Co. maintains an official Instagram presence in Israel, under the handle @benjamin_moore_israel.
- Berkshire Hathaway completed the acquisition of Benjamin Moore & Co. on January 1, 2001, making it a wholly owned subsidiary.
- Berkshire Hathaway, a holding company led by Warren Buffett, owns subsidiaries engaged in various business activities, including property and casualty insurance.
- Buffett’s investment strategy includes significant ventures in Israeli companies, such as Teva Pharmaceutical and Iscar Metalworking, reflecting his admiration for Israel’s economy.
- Buffett’s investment in Iscar Metalworking, amounting to $2 billion, signifies support for Israeli apartheid, sparking controversy and calls for boycotts from Palestine solidarity activists.
- Buffett has also been involved in raising investments for Israel through events such as Israel Bonds, reflecting his belief in the strong bond between the United States and Israel.
- Warren Buffett, as the top individual insider shareholder, holds a significant stake in Berkshire Hathaway, while institutional shareholders like Vanguard Group and BlackRock also have substantial holdings in the company.
Link Proof:
- https://www.instagram.com/benjamin_moore_israel/
- https://www.berkshirehathaway.com/news/jan0201.html
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/karlkaufman/2018/02/26/warren-buffetts-big-bet-on-israel/?sh=75183f56181c
- https://electronicintifada.net/blogs/david-cronin/warren-buffett-signs-2-billion-check-support-israeli-apartheid
- https://www.timesofisrael.com/warren-buffett-helps-raise-80-million-in-israel-bonds/
- https://www.investopedia.com/articles/company-insights/082916/top-5-shareholders-berkshire-hathaway-brka-brkb.asp#:~:text=Berkshire%20Hathaway%20is%20a%20diverse,%2C%20BlackRock%2C%20and%20State%20Street.
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In conclusion, the evidence indicates that Benjamin Moore & Co. has contributed to providing economic support to Israel, primarily due to Berkshire Hathaway’s majority ownership in the company and its investments in Israeli arms suppliers. As individuals focused on peace and anti-colonialism, we are urged to refrain from purchasing or consuming Benjamin Moore & Co. products due to their strong economic ties with Israel as a colonizer of Palestinian land.