American Express is now available in Israel under a franchise deal that has been signed with Bank Hapoalim.
It is believed to be the company’s first such franchise deal outside the United States.
The bank said in a statement last week that cardholders would be able to draw on Israeli currency worldwide. In addition, a billing and support system has been established locally.
In most countries, the U.S.-based American Express Co. issues the cards. The Israeli franchise will be a test case for similar deals in other countries, American Express officials said.
Bank Hapoalim is Israel’s largest bank, with almost $40 billion in assets.
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