Moise Safra
Moise Yacoub Safra | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Beirut, Lebanon |
| Died | June 15, 2014 (aged 80) |
| Occupation(s) | Businessman, philanthropist |
| Known for | Co-founder of Banco Safra |
Moise Yacoub Safra (; April 5, 1934 – June 15, 2014) was a businessman and philanthropist of Lebanese-Brazilian nationality with Syrian heritage. Alongside his brothers Edmond Safra and Joseph Safra, he played a pivotal role in founding Banco Safra.
Early life
Born on April 5, 1934, in Beirut, Lebanon, Moise Safra hailed from a Sephardic Jewish family originally rooted in Aleppo, present-day Syria. He was the son of Jacob Safra. The family's banking history dates back to their involvement in caravan trade linking Alexandria and Constantinople during the Ottoman era. Following the conclusion of World War I, the family moved from Aleppo to Beirut, where a vibrant Jewish community existed. In 1952, the Safra family emigrated to Brazil. By 1955, Moise’s brother Edmond and their father Jacob had initiated financing for trade letters of credit in São Paulo.
Career
After settling in Brazil and obtaining citizenship, Moise Safra co-founded Banco Safra alongside his brothers Edmond and Joseph. He was also recognized for his significant contributions to Jewish philanthropic causes.
Death
Moise Safra passed away on June 14, 2014, reportedly due to heart failure at the age of 80. His interment took place at the Cemitério Israelita do Butantã located in São Paulo. He left behind his wife Chella Cohen Safra and five children: Jacob Moise Safra, Azuri "Ezra" Moise Safra, Edmundo "Edmond" Moise Safra, Esther Safra Szajman, and Olga Safra.