Caterpillar(US:CAT) 阿尔法工场研究院·2025-08-28 00:04Core Viewpoint - The world's largest sovereign wealth fund, Norway's oil fund, has divested from Caterpillar and several Israeli banks due to ethical concerns related to their involvement in actions against Palestinian property and settlements [1][2]. Group 1: Divestment Actions - Norway's oil fund has completely sold its shares in Caterpillar, which accounted for 1.2% of the company, valued at $2.1 billion as of June [1]. - The fund has also reduced its holdings in five Israeli banks that finance settlement construction in the West Bank, decreasing the number of Israeli companies it holds from 61 to 33 [1][2]. - This divestment marks the first time the fund has sold non-Israeli companies due to their actions in Israel and Palestinian territories [2]. Group 2: Ethical Considerations - The divestment was based on recommendations from Norway's Council on Ethics, which advises on companies that violate international law [2]. - The Council stated that Caterpillar's products are being used to illegally destroy Palestinian property, constituting serious violations of international humanitarian law [3][4]. - The fund's actions reflect a response to public and political pressure regarding Israel's actions in Gaza [5]. Group 3: Political Implications - Some Norwegian officials express concerns about balancing public sentiment against Israel's actions with maintaining relations with the U.S., a strong supporter of Israel [5]. - There are fears that excessive divestment could lead to repercussions from U.S. states invoking anti-boycott laws, potentially impacting Norway and the fund [5].