US investment firm Centerbridge Partners is exploring a potential return to Israel's insurance and financial sector after selling its stake in Phoenix Financial earlier this year. The firm has held initial discussions regarding a possible stake in Clal Insurance Enterprise Holdings, including talks with Alfred Akirov, a significant Clal shareholder who has faced regulatory obstacles in his own efforts to gain control. While Centerbridge denies that any concrete deal is currently on the table, it acknowledges that conversations have occurred and that further meetings are planned. The situation remains fluid, with both Centerbridge and Akirov considering their options amid regulatory scrutiny.