Billionaire Profile
Shlomo Eliahu
Global Rank
#1290

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Shlomo Eliahu

CEO, Migdal Insurance & Financial Holdings Ltd
IL
Real-Time Net Worth
$3.11B
As of December 2025
Age
89
Source
Insurance
Industry
finance-investments
Citizenship
IL

Biography

Shlomo Eliahu, a self-made billionaire, is a prominent figure in the Israeli insurance and finance industries. Born in Baghdad in January 1936, he immigrated to Israel at the age of 14. Starting from humble beginnings, he built a significant fortune through his insurance company, Eliahu Insurance Company, founded in 1966, which was the first firm in Israel licensed to sell insurance. His source of wealth is primarily insurance and finance-investments, with a current estimated net worth of $3.1 billion. Eliahu has also been involved in Israeli politics and is known for his philanthropic activities, supporting various educational and welfare initiatives. He is divorced and has four children.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Shlomo Eliahu's journey began in Baghdad, Iraq, where he was born in January 1936. At the age of 14, he immigrated to Israel with his family, starting their new life in a temporary absorption camp. After the death of his father, he became the primary breadwinner for his family.

Rise to Success

After a brief apprenticeship, Eliahu worked as a messenger for the Migdal Insurance Company. He later became an independent insurance agent, and in 1955, he opened his own insurance agency in Tel Aviv. His career took a significant turn in 1966 when he founded the Eliahu Insurance Company. This company became the first firm in Israel licensed to sell insurance and expanded rapidly, becoming one of Israel's leading insurance groups.

Key Business Strategies

Eliahu's success is attributed to his strategic vision and ability to identify opportunities. He expanded his business ventures, holding shares in various insurance companies and later, in the 1990s, venturing into the banking sector. He acquired significant stakes in Bank Leumi and Union Bank of Israel. In 2012, Eliahu acquired controlling interest in Migdal Insurance, fulfilling a long-term goal.

Philanthropy

Shlomo Eliahu is known for his significant philanthropic contributions, supporting education, health, and welfare initiatives. He has been involved with organizations like Aleh, which provides care for children with disabilities, and Tel Aviv University, where he funds scholarships.

Career Milestones

1955

Founded an independent insurance agency

Opened an insurance agency in the Shapira neighborhood of Tel Aviv, marking his initial steps in the insurance industry.

1966

Founded Eliahu Insurance Company

Established Eliahu Insurance Company, the first firm in Israel licensed to sell insurance, which became a leading insurance group.

1978

Member of Knesset

Served as a Member of the Knesset until 1981, and also served as the Chairman of the Finance Committee.

2012

Acquired controlling interest in Migdal Insurance

Fulfilled a long-term goal by acquiring controlling interest in Migdal Insurance, a leading insurance and finance group in Israel.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Welfare

Aleh

Undisclosed

Supports Israel's largest network of residential facilities for children with severe physical and cognitive disabilities.

Education

Tel Aviv University Scholarships

Undisclosed

Funds scholarships for students at Tel Aviv University.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""These difficulties made me stronger. Riches never interested me.""

""The difficulties I went through made me who I am""

Leadership Principles

Hard work and Honesty

Reflected in his business operations.

Creativity

Instrumental in the development of Eliahu Insurance.

Responsibility

Committed to giving back to the community.