December Edition 2019

14 "With tech hubs in London, Cambridge, Edinburgh and others, technology is an obvious synergy between the two countries and presents many opportunities for continued collaboration,” add s Mark Phillips , Partner in Infrastructure and Project Finance at Herzog Fox & Neeman. Furthermore, “the spotlight on the environment is very bright right now and in the field of energy and natural resources, we expect to see more collaboration with UK companies in relation to cleantech and efficient use of energy and natural resources. We are also witnessing outside interest from foreign companies in relation to infrastructure projects. I believe that UK lenders will be keen, interested and will remain an important source of financing," he adds. A&O’s Noyek agrees: “Another area of interest for UK players in Israel and given the sophistication and mature nature of the UK market is the much-needed Israeli infrastructure development, be that in light rail, desalination or otherwise.” The opportunities extend very much to the financial sector. The UK remains the world’s leading international financial and professional services center, generating an industry trade surplus of USD 107 billion, of which USD 88 billion was in financial services alone, according to TheCityUK , an industry-led body representing UK-based financial and related professional services. Its financial clout in terms of capital-raising, together with a young workforce keen to invest in cutting-edge ideas, means London is a natural next step for Israeli start-ups looking to expand internationally. “Asoneof theworld's largestfinancial centers,LondonattractsFintechstart-ups from around the world looking to market their products to leading investment banks and asset managers. Israeli companies are no exception,” adds Clinton- Davis. “The success of companies such as eToro, Curve and SPiCE VC in the London market have paved the way for others to follow suit.” “The bigger Israeli companies looking to raise capital have traditionally seen the LSE as an alternative to a NASDAQ listing; whilst such listings have been in short supply in recent years due to the ease of raising private funds, we see that trend continuing particularly in the energy and FinTech spaces, adds Noyek. What’s more, London’s own ‘Silicon Roundabout’ represents one of the world’s biggest and fastest growing tech sectors, with a celebrated start-up culture that is securing increasing investment. Given Israel’s strength in this space, this presents an excellent opportunity for collaboration and integrationwith Israel’s brightestminds. UK still the world’s leading international financial and professional services center