Behind every billionaire there is a story!

Leviev’s diamonds to stay, but the rest of his businesses will leave

Israel will remain the hub of Lev Leviev’s diamond business, while his other areas of business will be centered in London, sources quote his brother Moshe Leviev saying in private conversations with diamond dealers. Moshe Leviev manages Lev Leviev’s polished diamond business in Israel.

Well-placed sources in the sector also said that Leviev has clarified that he would be coming to Israel at least once a month. They say that Leviev plans to expand his international real estate business, which has provided higher yields than his diamond business that he has pared down over the past year.

The sources expressed regret over Leviev’s decision to leave Israel, saying such a move reflects negatively on the diamond industry and on Israel. “When such a prominent personality in the international business decides to leave, it affects perceptions, even if his business remains in Israel” one explained. Diamond dealers say that in any case Leviev has no better alternative for his diamond business, since the nearest alternative location, Antwerp - with its proximity to London - is less amenable to the diamond industry.

“If some problem arises, he can talk to anyone he wishes in Israel,” said one source. “In Belgium he won’t have an attentive ear.”

read the rest published by  Haaretz here:

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/940344.html