Israel Bourse Opens Redesigned Trading Floor

RAPAPORT... The Israel Diamond Exchange (IDE) has reopened its trading floor following a two-month nationwide lockdown due to the pandemic.The hall will operate under a new format to comply with government health-and-safety rules, the IDE said Sunday. The measures include a divided floor, with one area for polished trading and another for rough. The bourse has also put a limit on the number of traders permitted to work in the area at one time, and has installed transparent partitions at each trading table.Additionally, all traders working on the floor must keep two meters apart, wear face masks, and sign a daily health declaration, the IDE noted.The trading floor closed on March 15 to stem the spread of the coronavirus. The IDE resumed some activities on May 3 as the government gradually lifted restrictions."We are very excited to reopen our trading floor, which is the heart and soul of the Israel Diamond Exchange," said IDE managing director Eran Zini. "This marks a very significant return to 'normality,' and symbolizes that the diamond industry is back in business. Still, we are very strictly enforcing government guidelines, since protecting the health and safety of our members is above all."Image: The Israel Diamond Exchange prepares the trading floor for reopening. (Israel Diamond Exchange)