Investing In Tech Through Israel (EIS, CHKP, AUDC)

With more engineers and scientists per capita than the United States, Israel has quietly become a tech magnet. Despite the fact that the nation is smaller than New Jersey and only has about 8 million residents, it has become a leader in high tech innovation by stressing education among its people. Nearly one in eight has an advanced degree. This focus on technology has helped Israel grow technology exports by nearly 8.5% annually and currently sit at nearly $20 billion. For investors, the nation represents a great alternative play of the future of high technology. The iShares MSCI Israel Index EIS devotes nearly 43% to high tech sectors. However, with nearly 130 different U.S. listed stocks adding individual Israeli stocks is easy. Here are few picks. Odds are, if you have ever shopped online, you've used Check Point Software's CHKP systems for checkout. The company's security software is quickly becoming the standard for many websites. In addition, Israel's Audio Codes AUDC also provides security software focusing on voice over internet protocols (VoIP). Partnering with Marvell MRVL, EZchip Semiconductor's EZCH will benefit from the need for new infrastructure equipment that will carry the ever-increasing volume of telecommunications traffic caused by smartphone and tablet adoption.