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Mako

Digital portal of Keshet 12 covering news, entertainment and television. We translate its reports into English and compare them with 43 other newsrooms.

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Group in the coverage barCentrist pressIts own lean is rated Center.
OwnerKeshet Media GroupCommercial advertising
Language and baseHebrew · Neve IlanFounded 2008

The last 30 days

2,962reports translated
39%first to report
30 mintypical time behind the first report
38%carry a named author
0%opinion and analysis

Why not a score? These are rates we can recompute. A single number would hide whether a newsroom is slow, unnamed, or mostly reprints. How we measure

How Mako writes

Mako's tone this month is neutral, close to the rest of the centrist press. On Netanyahu, the IDF, the United States, the police and Hamas its wording is in step with the other newsrooms.

From 2,927 reports this month, judged without the newsroom's name. How this is measured
Economy · 1d ago · also in 4 newsroomsTel Aviv Increases Electric Vehicle Charging Fees in City GaragesTel Aviv has increased the cost of charging electric vehicles in its municipal parking garages by over 53%, with the price per kWh rising to 1.24 shekels. This change follows a recent 20% hike in parking fees at the same locations. The municipal company Achuzot Hof cited rising operational costs for the increase, while noting that prices remain competitive with other charging providers.Economy · 2d agoIsraeli Workers Lag Behind European Counterparts in Vacation Time and PayIsraeli workers endure longer hours and lower hourly pay compared to European averages, prompting political parties to propose solutions. Parties like the "Democrats" advocate for more vacation days and shorter work weeks, while Yisrael Beiteinu suggests adjusting school holidays for parental convenience. Other parties focus on boosting productivity, though experts question the feasibility and timeline of these plans. Notably, several major parties, including Likud and Shas, failed to present concrete proposals.Economy · 2d agoShould You Take a 30-Year Mortgage to Lower Monthly Payments?Israeli families considering a 1.5 million shekel mortgage are weighing a 25-year versus a 30-year term. Opting for 30 years lowers monthly payments by about 720 shekels but increases total interest paid by roughly 268,000 shekels. While financially costly long-term, a longer term can provide essential monthly cash flow relief and reduce the risk of taking on expensive debt. Families can also consider hybrid repayment strategies or early repayments to manage costs.Economy · 2d ago · also in 1 newsroomIsraeli Singer Yuval Raphael Lands Major Brand Endorsement DealSinger Yuval Raphael, Israel's Eurovision representative, has been selected as the new spokesperson for the food giant Carrefour. She is expected to earn hundreds of thousands of shekels for the endorsement deal. The campaign, managed by the LEAD advertising agency, will launch soon on television and digital platforms. Raphael's agency confirmed the agreement.Economy · 2d ago · also in 1 newsroomEU Cabin Baggage Rules Promise Free Carry-Ons, But Trolleys Still Cost ExtraNew EU regulations starting October 23, 2027, will allow one free small personal item per passenger but allow airlines to continue charging for carry-on trolleys. The rules aim to increase price transparency and prevent hidden fees. The regulations apply to flights departing from the EU, regardless of airline, and to flights to the EU only if an EU carrier is used.Economy · 2d ago · also in 1 newsroomIsrael Tax Authority Proposes Higher Dividend Payouts and Property TaxIsrael's Tax Authority is proposing to increase the mandatory dividend distribution rate for closely held companies from 6% to 8% and to reinstate a 1.5% annual property tax on vacant land. These measures, aimed at boosting state revenue, would affect business owners and landowners. The proposals are part of budget considerations for 2027-2028 and still require legislative approval, facing potential opposition.Economy · 2d agoDeveloper Ordered to Pay Over Half a Million Shekels for Undelivered PenthouseA couple will receive over NIS 513,000 in compensation from a developer for a penthouse in Petah Tikva that is over three years overdue. The court rejected the developer's claim that the Iron Swords War caused the delay, stating the apartment was already late before the conflict began. The judge found the developer responsible for issues with subcontractors and construction problems, awarding the buyers significantly more than the contractually agreed-upon compensation.Economy · 2d agoIsraeli Shoppers to Benefit from Lower Fees on Shein, TemuFintech company Novi has received a license in Israel to process payments directly, making online shopping on sites like Shein and Temu cheaper for Israelis. This eliminates foreign currency conversion fees and reduces transaction declines, as purchases will be treated as local shekel transactions. The savings are expected to lead to better deals and discounts for Israeli consumers, while also increasing competition in the local payment processing market.Economy · 2d ago · also in 17 newsroomsBank of Israel Holds Interest Rates Steady, Future Cuts UncertainThe Bank of Israel has maintained its interest rate at 3.25%, with the prime rate at 4.75%, a decision aligned with analyst expectations ahead of national elections. Experts are divided on the timing of the next rate cut, with predictions ranging from the near future to as late as 2028. Factors influencing the decision include political uncertainty, economic expansion, and inflation levels, while arguments for a cut cite falling inflation and weak domestic demand.Economy · 3d ago · also in 1 newsroomAmerican Investment Firm Linked to New Brazilian Football Club AcquisitionAmerican investment firm Aliyah Capital, co-founded by Ross Kestin, is reportedly being pursued by a Brazilian investment bank for potential investment in Brazilian football clubs. The firm, which manages $8 billion and already owns Maccabi Netanya, aims to build an international multi-club platform. Aliyah Capital has a history of successful tech investments, including a significant stake in SpaceX.Economy · 3d agoIsrael Faces Tax Hikes and Service Cuts Post-Election Amid Defense Spending SurgeIsrael faces significant fiscal challenges ahead due to a surge in defense spending, projected to necessitate higher taxes and reduced public services. Experts warn that the current economic situation, while showing growth, is not improving living standards for many. Key issues include the erosion of social services, a gap between economic growth and individual purchasing power, the need for educational reform, and a crisis of public trust. The next government must navigate these challenges, with ongoing debate on whether to increase taxes or focus on efficiency and canceling exemptions.Economy · 3d agoDemand for Housing Surges in Gaza Envelope CommunitiesDemand for housing in Gaza Envelope communities has surged by over 350% in the past three years, significantly exceeding pre-war levels. Rental centers report waiting lists of around 100 people, and secondhand apartment prices in Netivot and Ofakim have risen by 16% and 11% respectively. Families are actively choosing to move to the region, citing Zionist motivations, and kibbutzim are receiving numerous inquiries from prospective residents.Economy · 3d ago · also in 3 newsroomsIsrael's Interest Rate Decision Looms Ahead of Elections Amid Economic UncertaintyIsrael's Monetary Committee will decide on the interest rate this Wednesday, just before national elections. While a recent inflation report allows for a potential rate cut, global factors like oil prices and U.S. inflation, along with domestic budget concerns, suggest the rate will likely remain at 3.25%. A rate cut could lower mortgage payments but reduce returns on savings.Economy · 3d agoWhen Are You Entitled to a Raise for Taking on More Work?Employees in Israel who absorb the duties of departed colleagues without a salary increase may be entitled to additional pay if the changes involve overtime, breach of contract, or fundamental shifts in job responsibilities. While increased workload alone isn't grounds for a raise, overtime hours are legally compensated at higher rates. Significant changes in job duties or the assumption of managerial roles can also trigger claims for increased pay or necessitate a formal review of compensation, especially if supported by employment agreements or legal precedents. Employees should document changes and communicate concerns to their employer to ensure fair compensation and adherence to labor laws.Economy · 3d agoAmazon's Secret Beauty Sale Offers Up to 40% Off Top BrandsAmazon's annual US Holiday Beauty Event offers up to 40% off on beauty and personal care products, with free shipping to Israel on orders over $49. The sale, running until November 1, features significant discounts on popular items like the Medicube Mini Booster Pro Set and Dyson Airwrap, potentially saving Israeli consumers hundreds of shekels. Shoppers are advised to manage orders under $75 to avoid VAT and pay in USD to maximize savings.Economy · 5d ago · also in 1 newsroomCourt Orders Return of NIS 1.8 Million Misused by Charity OfficialsA Haifa District Court judge has ordered two Israeli charity associations and their former leaders to return NIS 1.8 million in misused donation funds. The ruling against "Keren LeChaim" and "Keren LeChaim for Children and Youth" found that funds intended for cancer patients were improperly transferred and spent on salaries, rent, and other expenses not aligned with the donation's purpose. The court cited forged documents, lack of oversight, and personal enrichment as key factors in the decision, ordering the return of the funds to the estate from which they originated.Economy · 5d ago · also in 1 newsroomIsraeli Mortgage Activity Shifts Dramatically in SeptemberIn September 2026, Israeli mortgage volume fell 20.5% from August to 8.668 billion shekels, but prime rate mortgages surged 150%. Index-linked mortgages decreased significantly, while non-indexed loans dominated. Despite the monthly dip, year-to-date mortgage activity is up 12% for 2026. Experts cite interest rate expectations for the prime rate increase, warning of associated risks.Economy · 5d ago30% Rule for Rent May Be Outdated in Israel's Housing MarketA traditional financial guideline suggesting rent should not exceed 30% of income is becoming unrealistic in Israel due to rising housing costs. With average rents surpassing 5,000 shekels and exceeding 7,000 in Tel Aviv, many Israelis cannot afford housing without exceeding this threshold. Data shows half of workers earn below 10,586 shekels gross, making the 30% rule difficult to meet. Landlords' preference for tenants within this ratio further complicates the situation for many.Economy · 6d agoTaxi Drivers Blame Government for Ben Airport Transport FailuresChairman Zohar Golan stated that taxi drivers cannot be blamed for the "transportation failure" and that the state must provide solutions. Long queues have been reported at the airport due to a shortage of taxis compared to demand, especially when trains and buses are not running.Economy · 6d ago · also in 2 newsroomsZara Home Considers Future in Israel Amid Store Closures and New Shipping FeesZara Israel is evaluating the future of most of its Zara Home stores after closing a branch in Beersheba due to declining sales. The company has also implemented a 14.90 shekel shipping fee for all online orders, removing the previous free shipping threshold. Additionally, Zara products in Israel are reportedly 35% to 50% more expensive than in the Netherlands, with price differences amounting to hundreds of shekels.Economy · 6d ago · also in 3 newsroomsEconomists Warn of Heavy Economic Price for Settlement Expansion and Jewish TerrorOver 60 Israeli economists have warned that expanding settlements and failing to prevent Jewish terror will impose a heavy economic price on all Israeli citizens. They fear that international sanctions targeting settlements could broaden to affect the entire Israeli economy, worsening the cost of living. Several European nations are considering or have already implemented import bans and sanctions related to settlements. The economists' letter highlights the potential for significant economic damage if these measures escalate.Economy · 6d ago · also in 15 newsroomsUS Investor John Paulson Donates Record $250 Million to Hebrew UniversityAmerican investor John Paulson has donated a record $250 million to the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the largest gift in its history. The Mount Scopus campus will be renamed in his and his wife's honor. The funds will establish a new engineering faculty and support medical and trauma research. This brings Paulson's total contributions to the university to $296 million.Economy · 6d ago · also in 16 newsroomsAliExpress Launches Elite Customer Club in Israel Ahead of Singles' DayAliExpress has launched its first customer loyalty program, Elite, in Israel, offering free membership with benefits like a 5% discount and free returns. The program, timed before the November 11th shopping event, aims to reward loyal customers. Membership is automatic based on purchase history, and benefits include a dedicated VIP customer service channel. The company sees the Israeli market as a strong growth engine.Economy · 8d ago · also in 19 newsroomsIsraeli Cyber Firm Varonis to Be Acquired by Proofpoint for $6.3 BillionIsraeli cybersecurity firm Varonis has agreed to be acquired by Proofpoint for approximately $6.3 billion in cash. The deal will take the company private and offers shareholders a significant premium. Varonis, which employs about 1,000 people in Israel, specializes in protecting sensitive data using AI. The acquisition is expected to bolster the combined entity's ability to serve over 16,000 global organizations.Economy · 8d agoIsrael's Inflation Slows Sharply, Housing Prices DipIsrael's inflation rate slowed more than expected in September 2026, with the consumer price index falling 0.5% and the annual rate reaching 1.6%. Housing prices also declined by 0.6% monthly and 1.8% annually, with the central and Tel Aviv districts showing the largest drops. These figures may influence the Bank of Israel's upcoming interest rate decisions.Economy · 8d agoIsrael Plans Land Ports to Join India-Europe Trade Corridor Amid Regional ThreatsIsrael is advancing plans to establish land ports and integrate them into the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) to bolster its role in global trade. The Israel Ports Company will present a strategic plan to the government soon, aiming to connect these land ports to rail and sea infrastructure. This initiative seeks to create an alternative trade route amid threats to maritime shipping in the Red Sea and competition from other regional corridors. The project is seen as a historic opportunity for Israel to become a central trade hub and enhance its strategic position.Economy · 8d ago · also in 2 newsroomsIsraeli Debtor Jailed for Third Time Over $2.2 Million DebtRafael Rubinshtein, a 70-year-old Israeli-American debtor, will be jailed for two weeks for failing to meet his financial obligations, a decision upheld by the Israeli Supreme Court. This is his third imprisonment in 11 years related to his 2.2 million shekel debt. Rubinshtein previously served time in the U.S. and lost his Savyon villa. The court found that imprisonment was the only way to compel him to fulfill his duties after repeated defaults.Economy · 9d ago · also in 1 newsroomIsraeli Court Approves Class Action Against Apple Importer Over Used PartsA class-action lawsuit has been approved against Apple's Israeli importers, Icon and iDigital, for allegedly keeping replaced parts from customer repairs and profiting from them. The lawsuit, which estimates damages at NIS 241 million, covers repairs of AirPods and MacBooks. The court found that the companies may have violated consumer protection laws and a prior agreement. The companies deny the claims, calling them theoretical and disconnected from reality.Economy · 9d agoReal Estate Funds Buy Hundreds of Apartments at 20% Discount Amid Market SlumpHousing rental funds are purchasing hundreds of apartments, including entire buildings, from distressed developers in Israel at discounts of up to 20%. This strategy helps developers manage cash flow and reduce debt in a stagnant market. While these bulk purchases offer developers financial relief, the cost savings are not consistently passed on to renters, who still face high demand and market-rate prices. However, tenants may benefit from longer lease agreements and improved maintenance services offered by these funds.Economy · 9d agoDollar Hits Six-Month High Against Shekel Amid US Inflation FearsThe US dollar climbed to a six-month peak against the Israeli shekel on Thursday, surpassing 3.10 shekels due to falling Wall Street markets. This decline was triggered by US inflation data showing a 3.7% rise in September, exceeding forecasts. Israeli institutional investors are selling dollar assets and buying shekels, further weakening the local currency. The euro also strengthened against the shekel.More from Mako