Archive: Arielinson / CC BY-SA 4.0
Amnon Shashua is exploring a sale of control of One Zero at a bank valuation of NIS 1.1 billion to NIS 1.2 billion, according to a Sunday report. Shashua disputed that account, saying the discussions concern investments and white-label arrangements, not the sale described in the report.
The reported valuation is for the digital bank, not a sum Shashua would receive. He owns about 60% of One Zero, and the structure described in the report includes new capital for the bank alongside a possible purchase of some of his shares that would reduce him to a minority holding.
Potential investors and a disputed sale process
The report said representatives led by CEO Eyal Gafni and chairman Shuki Oren had held talks and presentations with interested parties in recent weeks, with at least three groups entering a data room. Investment house Meitav and businessman Moti Ben-Moshe were named as interested parties.
Shashua’s response was direct: “The information is incorrect.” He said there were talks about investments, white-label arrangements and similar matters. The report also described a gap between his valuation expectations and those of potential buyers.
Isracard held discussions in the past that stopped but could resume, according to the report. Discussions with Rami Levy and Direct Insurance did not advance. These are reported approaches and options, not an agreed transaction.
Capital needs behind the discussions
The bank has attracted about 200,000 customers but continues to report losses. The report puts accumulated losses since its establishment at NIS 1.3 billion and says Shashua, who has invested $114 million over recent years, does not want to provide further capital. That assessment of his intentions was attributed to people close to the talks.
One Zero’s own annual report records a 2025 net loss of NIS 213.9 million. It also describes capital raised from existing shareholders and plans to raise additional funds during 2026 to expand into new activities.
The Sunday report said first-half revenue reached NIS 66 million, up 33%, while expenses fell 10% to NIS 149 million. It said public deposits stood at NIS 3.8 billion at the end of the first half. Bank executives expect annual profitability in 2027, according to the report.
A banking license and customer base
For a potential buyer, the report identifies One Zero’s existing technology and banking license as attractions that would shorten the route into banking. Any buyer would need Bank of Israel approval.
The talks matter to shareholders facing further funding needs and to customers of a bank launched to compete with Israel’s established lenders. The reported alternatives concern who would finance and control the bank; the report does not announce a completed sale.
One Zero was founded in 2019 by Marius Nacht, sold to Shashua the following year and opened to the public in 2022. Its other investors include Julius Baer, Tencent and SBI, according to the report.
JBizNews Desk | Tel Aviv, Israel
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