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MilitiaMan and Crew: IQD News Update-CBI-Focus Reform-Proven Model-Exchange-Rate
MilitiaMan and Crew: QD News Update-CBI-Focus Reform-Proven Model-Exchange-Rate
2-24-2026
The Crew: Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man
Follow MM on X == https://x.com/Slashn
Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..
MilitiaMan and Crew: IQD News Update-CBI-Focus Reform-Proven Model-Exchange-Rate
2-24-2026
The Crew: Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man
Follow MM on X == https://x.com/Slashn
Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Evening 2-24-26
Good Evening Dinar Recaps,
Geopolitics Overtakes Economics: The New Rules of Global Finance
From Tariffs to Central Banks, Power Now Trumps Policy Models
Good Evening Dinar Recaps,
Geopolitics Overtakes Economics: The New Rules of Global Finance
From Tariffs to Central Banks, Power Now Trumps Policy Models
Overview
This week’s financial landscape reveals a decisive shift: economic frameworks are being subordinated to geopolitical strategy.
From U.S. tariff maneuvers to Japan’s currency tolerance and Israel’s rate decisions, policymakers are increasingly prioritizing security threats, trade leverage, and strategic positioning over traditional economic indicators.
According to reporting compiled by Reuters, governments and central banks are recalibrating decisions around power, deterrence, and alliance management, not inflation models or textbook trade theory.
The pattern is clear: Money is now an instrument of statecraft.
Key Developments
1. Tariffs Reframed as Crisis Management
U.S. President Donald Trump replaced struck-down IEEPA tariffs with new 15% duties under Section 122, citing a balance-of-payments crisis tied to a $1.2 trillion trade deficit.
Former IMF official Gita Gopinath rejected the claim, noting the U.S. retains stable borrowing costs and market access — key indicators that no classical balance-of-payments crisis exists.
Strategic Impact:
Legal statutes are being repurposed to sustain tariff regimes. When one authority fails, another is invoked. Trade law is becoming flexible terrain in geopolitical contests.
2. Japan’s Yen Weakness Signals Strategic Tolerance
The yen weakened to around 155 per dollar, even amid speculation of intervention. Tokyo appears more willing to tolerate depreciation, balancing export competitiveness with fiscal flexibility.
Meanwhile, Japan is seeking assurances that new tariffs won’t “stack” on top of previous trade agreements tied to $550 billion in pledged U.S.-bound investment.
Strategic Impact:
Japan’s caution reflects a shift from economic optimization to risk containment diplomacy. Stability with Washington outweighs currency orthodoxy.
3. Israel Holds Rates Despite Easing Inflation
The Bank of Israel kept interest rates at 4%, even as inflation eased to 1.8%, within its 1–3% target range.
The reason: rising geopolitical uncertainty tied to Iran tensions.
Strategic Impact:
Monetary policy is no longer purely data-driven. Security risk is overriding inflation metrics, signaling a structural shift in central banking priorities.
4. Saudi Arabia’s Fiscal Expansion Accelerates
Saudi Arabia’s Q4 deficit widened to $25.28 billion, with full-year deficits exceeding revised projections as Vision 2030 projects accelerate.
Debt climbed sharply to 1.52 trillion riyals, reflecting expansionary policy despite moderate oil revenue growth.
Strategic Impact:
Mega-project diversification requires sustained borrowing. The fiscal gamble hinges on rapid non-oil growth before debt servicing pressures intensify.
5. Strategic Mineral Alliances Bypass Traditional Trade
Brazil and South Korea elevated ties into a strategic partnership targeting:
Critical minerals
AI development
Green industries
Renewed trade negotiations
As global tariff uncertainty grows, bilateral agreements are replacing multilateral confidence.
Strategic Impact:
Resource diplomacy is fragmenting supply chains into ideological blocs, accelerating “friendshoring” dynamics.
Why It Matters
We are witnessing a systemic pivot:
Trade deficits framed as security threats
Currency weakness tolerated for strategic aims
Central banks prioritizing geopolitics over inflation
Sovereign debt rising to fund diversification races
Bilateral mineral deals replacing multilateral trust
Economic policy is becoming an extension of foreign policy.
This is not just market turbulence — it’s the weaponization of economic policy.
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
For those watching global financial realignment:
Legal uncertainty increases currency volatility
Security-driven rate policy distorts traditional forecasting models
Supply-chain fragmentation pressures inflation dynamics
Strategic trade blocs alter capital allocation flows
Markets may treat these as temporary disruptions. The evidence suggests structural shifts.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Redefinition of Economic Crisis
Invoking “balance-of-payments crises” in stable economies redefines the legal threshold for protectionism worldwide.
Pillar 2: Central Bank Mandate Evolution
Security risk is increasingly embedded into monetary decision-making frameworks.
Pillar 3: Strategic Fragmentation
Bilateral mineral pacts and tariff stacking fears indicate global trade is reorganizing into aligned blocs.
The rules governing globalization are being rewritten in real time.
This is not just tariff maneuvering — it’s the legal reengineering of trade authority.
Seeds of Wisdom Team View
Three fractures are widening:
Legal fragility of tariff authority
Unsustainable tribute-style trade dynamics
Central banks subordinating economics to geopolitics
Markets remain calm.
Policy foundations are shifting.
When monetary frameworks bend toward security priorities, signaling mechanisms weaken — and volatility follows.
This is not just central bank discretion — it’s geopolitics overriding economic doctrine.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Modern Diplomacy — "Financial Brief: A Weekly Roundup on the Geopolitics of Money | Feb 24"
Reuters — "Global markets, tariffs and central bank policy updates"
~~~~~~~~~~
Taiwan at a Crossroads: Strategic Ambiguity Under Pressure
Rising PLA Activity and U.S. Arms Support Reshape Deterrence Calculus
Overview
Taiwan is emerging as one of the most volatile flashpoints in global geopolitics. According to recent analysis, the long-standing U.S. doctrine of strategic ambiguity toward Taiwan may require recalibration as military pressure from China intensifies.
Regular air and naval patrols, median line violations, and gray-zone coercion have become routine since 2022. Meanwhile, Washington has approved an $11.1 billion arms package to strengthen Taiwan’s asymmetric defenses.
The question is no longer ambiguity versus clarity — it is how to recalibrate deterrence without triggering escalation.
Key Developments
1. Surge in Chinese Military Pressure
China’s military spending has risen to over $230 billion in 2024, up sharply from 2016 levels.
PLA aircraft incursions into Taiwan’s ADIZ surpassed 1,700 in 2023, reflecting sustained operational pressure.
China’s newest aircraft carrier, Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian, launched in 2022, now operates near the Taiwan Strait, symbolizing expanded maritime reach.
2. Gray-Zone Coercion Becomes Routine
Frequent air and naval patrols and regular median-line crossings aim to:
Drain Taiwan’s defense resources
Normalize military pressure
Avoid triggering direct U.S. intervention
This approach blurs the line between peace and conflict.
3. U.S. Strategic Ambiguity Under Strain
Under the Taiwan Relations Act, the United States supplies defensive weapons but offers no formal security guarantee.
However, in 2025 Washington approved $11.1 billion in advanced weapons, including:
Long-range rocket systems
Missile platforms
Unmanned aerial vehicles
Beijing condemned the move as destabilizing, while Taipei welcomed it as vital for deterrence.
4. Risks of Strategic Clarity
Some analysts argue for explicit defense guarantees. Others warn that formal clarity could:
Trigger pre-emptive action by Beijing
Accelerate regional militarization
Lock Washington into automatic escalation
Why It Matters
Taiwan is not only a security issue — it is a global economic linchpin.
Over 60% of global semiconductor production is based in Taiwan.
More than 90% of advanced sub-7nm chips are manufactured on the island.
A conflict in the Taiwan Strait would disrupt:
Global supply chains
Technology production
Defense systems
Automotive and AI industries
The economic fallout would be immediate and worldwide.
This is not just cross-strait tension — it’s the stability of the global semiconductor backbone.
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
Geopolitical escalation in the Taiwan Strait could trigger:
Safe-haven currency flows
Volatility in energy and shipping markets
Shockwaves through technology equities
Supply-chain-driven inflation spikes
Capital markets are tightly linked to semiconductor stability — and Taiwan is at the center.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Deterrence Redesign
Traditional ambiguity is eroding under sustained military pressure. A recalibrated approach must balance deterrence with escalation control.
Pillar 2: Supply Chain Sovereignty
The semiconductor concentration in Taiwan underscores the fragility of global manufacturing networks. Nations are accelerating reshoring and diversification strategies.
Taiwan’s status now influences both military doctrine and economic architecture.
Seeds of Wisdom Team View
Strategic ambiguity once preserved peace by fostering uncertainty.
Today, persistent gray-zone operations are testing its limits.
Full strategic clarity risks escalation.
Pure ambiguity risks miscalculation.
The path forward appears to be calibrated ambiguity — political restraint paired with credible deterrent capability.
The stakes extend beyond sovereignty. They encompass:
Global technology supply chains
Military balance in the Indo-Pacific
Financial system stability
This is not just regional rivalry — it’s the fault line between economic interdependence and military confrontation.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Modern Diplomacy — "Taiwan at a Crossroads: Why Strategic Ambiguity Needs Recalibration"
Reuters — "U.S. approves new arms package for Taiwan amid rising tensions"
~~~~~~~~~~
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Thank you Dinar Recaps
Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Evening 2-24-26
“Iraq Without The Kurds”: Political And Economic Cost Of Rupture
2026-02-24 Shafaq News - By Ali Hussein Feyli An “Iraq without the Kurds” would not represent merely a geographic or political shift; beyond the deep historical bonds, it would mean the collapse of economic, security, and social ties. The consequences would be swift, comprehensive, and cross-border. It cannot be claimed that the crisis between Baghdad and Erbil is the making of one side alone.
“Iraq Without The Kurds”: Political And Economic Cost Of Rupture
2026-02-24 Shafaq News - By Ali Hussein Feyli An “Iraq without the Kurds” would not represent merely a geographic or political shift; beyond the deep historical bonds, it would mean the collapse of economic, security, and social ties. The consequences would be swift, comprehensive, and cross-border. It cannot be claimed that the crisis between Baghdad and Erbil is the making of one side alone.
Baghdad understands that the Kurdish people’s vision is a blend of national aspirations, legal rights, and identity. Any solution must therefore take these dimensions into account.
Those with a pragmatic outlook, concerned primarily with livelihoods and stability, expect authorities to ease tensions rather than obstruct efforts to resolve long-standing structural crises whose wounds have remained open for years. Otherwise, future generations will inherit it.
The identity- and citizenship-related dimensions of an “Iraq without the Kurds” scenario would either transform social relations or eliminate them altogether. What is being practiced today is a policy of ignoring rights and suspending justice, one that would impose a long-term social and moral cost that cannot be repaired.
The defining question is whether Iraqis seek to revive their shared history in an inclusive manner, or allow moments of political recklessness that cross “sacred lines” to burn away a collective human legacy and the values of citizenship.
At a time when even relations between two neighbors require a long-term strategy, why does no Iraqi minister or official “among those who shape disastrous outcomes” recognize that the current situation poses an imminent threat? This type of conduct and policy is what ultimately determines the future of Iraqis.
The loss of any part of Iraq’s geography would not simply alter borders; its consequences would be accelerating and extremely costly. Rational policymaking in the face of such risks would not spare the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Planning, or any related institution from accountability.
To mitigate the damage of a scenario involving the loss of the people and geography of Kurdistan, central decision-making in Baghdad requires a technical, not tactical, approach; financial justice rather than a “ministry of cutting off livelihoods”; and careful planning instead of concealed mismanagement.
Openness free from fanaticism is a necessary prior intention, as the prevailing trajectory in this country is toward deeper polarization, the real danger of rupture, and the expansion of further crises.
Proponents of such ideas futilely promote the notion that “lifting injustice” can be achieved through forced displacement and transferring the inhabitants of one area to another. In reality, reversing this course is what rebuilds trust and creates an inclusive identity among the country’s components. Every step that lacks rationality will carry a long-term cost and generate new crises. A carefully considered political decision can determine the path toward stability or collapse.
Attempting a solution requires alignment in will and public decision-making to prevent the accumulation of factors that fuel political instability, radicalization, rising protests, and further social fragmentation among the country’s components. This process demands legal and political measures, not coercive and arbitrary actions.
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Report/Iraq-without-the-Kurds-Political-and-economic-cost-of-rupture
Iraqi Kurdistan Appoints First Female Chief Of Internal Security Court
2026-02-24 Shafaq News- Erbil The Kurdistan Region Interior Ministry on Tuesday appointed Chra Ahmed Latif as acting head of the Internal Security Forces Court /2, marking the first time a woman has held the senior post, Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed said.
In a statement, Ahmed noted the decision reflects the ministry’s efforts to strengthen women’s leadership and expand women’s roles within security institutions.
Women’s representation in the Region has grown in recent years, with women holding 26.2% of judicial positions and 27.8% of public prosecutor posts, while 147 women have entered parliament under the 30% quota, according to Dindar Zebari, the Kurdish Coordinator for the Office of International Advocacy (OCIA), at the UN’s CEDAW session.
X Rêber Ahmed @RayberAhmed
As part of the Ministry of Interior’s vision to strengthen women’s leadership, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Brigadier Chra Ahmed Latif as Acting Head of the Internal Security Forces Court/2 — the first woman to hold this senior position. Congratulations to her on this well-deserved recognition, and wishing her continued success.
Iraq’s Largest Bloc Claims Geopolitical Foothold In Gulf After UN Maritime Filing
2026-02-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad Lawmakers from caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s parliamentary bloc on Tuesday denied that the United Nations has the authority to revoke Iraq’s newly deposited maritime maps, describing the step as a sovereign milestone that makes the country “practically a Gulf state.”
At a press conference in parliament, Bahaa al-Araji, a leader in the Reconstruction and Development bloc (Al-Ima’ar wal Tanmiya) —the largest electoral bloc— said the filing formally clarified Iraq’s maritime boundaries and marked the completion of its sovereign framework at sea.
“With the deposit of these maps, Iraq has secured a geopolitical foothold in the Gulf,” al-Araji said, adding that the move would encourage oil and gas exploration and grant Iraqi fishermen greater freedom to navigate Gulf waters.
The submission to the United Nations includes updated geographic coordinates defining Iraq’s internal waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, and exclusive economic zone (EEZ), outlining the maritime areas over which Iraq exercises sovereign rights under international law.
MP Alia Nassif, speaking at the same conference, described the deposit as a legal consolidation of Iraq’s maritime rights rather than a routine technical procedure. She noted that no previous Iraqi government —during either the monarchy or the republican era— had formally lodged such maps with the UN.
Nassif acknowledged Kuwait’s right to object but denied that the United Nations can annul the filing. “This deposit is a sovereign right,” she said, arguing that Iraq is now “the master of the situation in drawing the maps” and has “moved from a position of defense to one of ownership,” with the other side required to substantiate its maritime claims.
Iraq, she added, aims to compete with nearby regional ports, including Qatari ports, and maintained that once the Grand al-Faw Port is completed, the country will possess facilities capable of rivaling ports across the region.
Baghdad and Kuwait continue technical and legal discussions to finalize maritime delimitation, particularly in the Khor Abdullah waterway —a narrow but strategically significant channel that has long strained relations between the two neighbors. Iraqi officials indicated that the newly deposited coordinates are expected to serve as a reference point in those talks.
Read more: Khor Abdullah: A waterway entangled in sovereignty disputes and legacy of invasion
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has called on Iraq to withdraw the maritime coordinates and map lodged with the UN, arguing that the submission includes “claims” affecting Kuwait’s sovereignty over certain maritime areas and water elevations, including Fasht Al-Qaid and Fasht Al-Aij, which Kuwait considers “undisputed territory.”
Iraq Faces New US Deadline To Withdraw Nouri Al-Maliki Nomination
2026-02-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad Iraq’s Shiite Coordination Framework (CF) has until February 27 to withdraw Nouri Al-Maliki’s nomination for prime minister, a senior source within the alliance told Shafaq News on Tuesday.
The deadline was discussed during a meeting held on Monday, where Al-Maliki made clear he would not step aside, adding that any reversal would have to come from the bloc that nominated him.
The Framework, parliament’s ruling bloc, is expected to convene again before Friday, with discussions focused on rallying a majority to revoke his nomination. Still, Reconstruction and Development parliamentary bloc leader Bahaa Al-Araji, speaking to Shafaq News earlier today, stressed that the CF will not change its nominee for prime minister because of “any US decision.”
A US State Department spokesperson previously told our agency that President Donald Trump’s position remains unchanged and that selecting Al-Maliki would prompt Washington to “reassess its relationship with Iraq.” US Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack also reiterated during meetings in Baghdad and Erbil that Washington opposes Al-Maliki’s candidacy and outlined potential measures if it proceeds, according to the source.
Read more: Iraq’s next Prime Minister held hostage by US-Iran standoff
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Iraq-faces-new-US-deadline-to-withdraw-Nouri-Al-Maliki-nomination
PUK, US Push For Kurdish Unity On Iraq And Kurdistan Governments
2026-02-24 Shafaq News- Erbil The formation of Iraq’s new government topped talks on Tuesday between Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) leader Bafel Talabani and US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack, according to a statement.
The two sides discussed political developments in Iraq and the wider region, stressing the need to resolve the issues delaying cabinet formation in Iraq. Talabani affirmed that the PUK would continue to play an “important role” in Baghdad to help secure a future that serves all Iraqis.
X Bafel Jalal Talabani @Bafeltalabani
Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, received @USAMBTurkiye Tom Barrack, the Special Envoy of President Donald Trump for Syrian affairs. In the meeting, Qubad Talabani, Senior PUK leadership member, and @USEmbBaghdad Joshua Harris, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Iraq, were also present. The current political situation in Iraq and the wider region was discussed.
The formation of the new Iraqi government was a central topic, and both sides agreed on the need to make progress on the issues preventing the formation of the government in Baghdad. Both sides stressed that Iraq must remain a prosperous, sovereign, and independent country.
President Bafel Jalal Talabani stated that the PUK will continue to play an important role in Baghdad to ensure the future of the country is such that it best serves all the people of Iraq.
They also agreed on the necessity of finalizing the formation of the new Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) cabinet, highlighting that the current situation requires a unified Kurdish voice in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.
The meeting also addressed the stalled formation of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) cabinet. Both sides emphasized that current conditions require “a unified Kurdish voice in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.”
Political tensions between the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the PUK, the two main parties in the Kurdistan Region, have paralyzed the Kurdistan Region’s legislature since the October 2024 elections, when the KDP secured 39 of the parliament’s 100 seats, and the PUK won 23. Lawmakers convened briefly on December 3 but failed to elect a speaker or advance cabinet formation, leading to an open-ended suspension.
Read more: Kurdistan Region’s political deadlock: Impact and perils
The rivalry extends to the federal level. In Iraq’s 2025 parliamentary elections, the KDP won 26 seats nationwide, compared with 15 for the PUK. Under Iraq’s post-2003 power-sharing system, the Iraqi presidency is traditionally held by a Kurdish figure —most often from the PUK— while the KDP retains the Kurdistan Region presidency. Disputes over the post have also previously delayed government formation.
Read more: Iraq slips into constitutional vacuum as presidential deadlock drags on
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Kurdistan/PUK-US-push-for-Kurdish-unity-on-Iraq-and-Kurdistan-governments
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Afternoon 2-24-26
Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,
Iran Nears Deal for Chinese Supersonic Anti-Ship Missiles
CM-302 Acquisition Could Reshape Naval Balance in the Gulf
Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,
Iran Nears Deal for Chinese Supersonic Anti-Ship Missiles
CM-302 Acquisition Could Reshape Naval Balance in the Gulf
Overview
Iran is reportedly close to finalizing a deal with China to purchase CM-302 supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles, according to multiple sources familiar with the negotiations.
The missile system — manufactured by China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation — can travel approximately 290 kilometers, flying low and fast to evade naval defenses.
The potential acquisition comes as the United States increases its naval presence near Iran, including deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford.
Key Developments
1. Advanced Anti-Ship Capability
The CM-302 is designed to:
Travel at supersonic speeds
Fly low to avoid radar detection
Strike large naval vessels, including aircraft carriers
If deployed, it would significantly enhance Iran’s maritime strike capacity.
2. Negotiations Gained Momentum After Regional Conflict
Talks, reportedly ongoing for two years, accelerated following a brief June confrontation between Israel and Iran. Senior Iranian officials, including Deputy Defense Minister Massoud Oraei, traveled to China during discussions.
3. Possible Violation of U.N. Arms Restrictions
A finalized deal could contravene the 2006 United Nations arms embargo, reimposed last September. This would mark a major transfer of advanced military technology.
4. Broader Military Cooperation
Iran is also reportedly discussing:
Surface-to-air missile systems
Anti-ballistic defense weapons
Anti-satellite technology
This signals deepening strategic alignment between Beijing and Tehran.
5. U.S. Strategic Response
President Donald Trump has warned of a tough stance if nuclear negotiations falter. Meanwhile, U.S. carrier strike groups have assembled in the region, underscoring heightened military readiness.
*****************
Why It Matters
The CM-302 is not symbolic — it is a carrier-threat weapon system.
Its deployment could:
Complicate U.S. naval operations in the Persian Gulf
Strengthen Iran’s deterrence posture
Shift tactical calculations in regional conflicts
Escalate U.S.–China strategic rivalry
The deal reflects a broader geopolitical contest involving China, Russia, Iran, and the United States.
This is not just regional tension — it’s multipolar rivalry entering maritime trade corridors.
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
Geopolitical escalations affect financial systems in measurable ways:
Rising Middle East tensions can drive oil price volatility
Defense posturing influences commodity markets
Safe-haven assets (gold, U.S. Treasuries) may see renewed demand
Sanctions risks impact cross-border settlement systems
Energy markets and global shipping lanes remain critical arteries of the world economy.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Military Power and Trade Corridors
Missile capability near key maritime chokepoints raises risk premiums for shipping and energy flows.
Pillar 2: Strategic Bloc Consolidation
Deepening China-Iran defense ties reflect multipolar alignment, complicating U.S. containment strategies.
The transfer of advanced weapons technology signals that geopolitical competition is intensifying across both military and economic fronts.
This is not just a weapons deal — it’s a recalibration of naval deterrence in strategic waters.
Seeds of Wisdom Team View
The potential CM-302 deal represents more than arms procurement — it reflects shifting alliances in a tightening global chessboard.
When naval deployments increase and missile capabilities expand, markets take notice.
Military technology transfers often precede broader shifts in:
Energy pricing
Sanctions frameworks
Capital movement
Currency stability
This is not just military procurement — it’s geopolitical pressure testing the global financial system.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Modern Diplomacy — "Iran nears deal for Chinese supersonic missiles, posing new threat to U.S. Navy"
Reuters — "Iran close to deal for Chinese anti-ship missiles, sources say"
~~~~~~~~~~
Russia Sells 300,000 Ounces of Gold as Prices Surge
BRICS Gold Strategy Shifts from Accumulation to Strategic Profit-Taking
Overview
A leading BRICS member, Russia, sold 300,000 ounces of gold in January, capitalizing on record-high prices near $5,500 per ounce, according to data from the Central Bank of Russia.
The transaction reportedly generated approximately $1.68 billion, marking Russia’s first gold sale since October. Despite the sale, Russia still holds roughly 74.5 million ounces in reserves.
The move comes amid years of aggressive gold accumulation by BRICS nations following Western sanctions imposed in 2022.
Key Developments
1. $1.68 Billion Strategic Sale
Russia reduced its holdings by 300,000 ounces, taking advantage of gold’s sharp rally. Even after the sale, reserves remain near historic highs.
2. Four-Year Gold Accumulation Trend
Since 2022, BRICS nations — including China, India, Brazil, and South Africa — have expanded gold reserves significantly.
The World Gold Council has reported that BRICS countries have been the largest net buyers of gold for two consecutive years.
3. Gold Up More Than 75% Year-Over-Year
The precious metal’s explosive rally has boosted sovereign portfolios and attracted retail and institutional investors alike.
4. Sanctions and Strategic Reserve Shifts
Gold accumulation accelerated after U.S. sanctions, positioning gold as a sanctions-resistant reserve asset for Russia and others.
5. BRICS Currency Speculation Fades
While speculation circulated about gold backing a new BRICS currency, internal divisions and economic differences have stalled such plans. The bloc remains financially diverse, with differing policy priorities among members.
Why It Matters
This is not simply a gold sale — it’s a liquidity maneuver within a broader reserve strategy.
Russia’s move suggests:
Willingness to monetize high prices
Confidence in maintaining large gold buffers
Tactical reserve management amid geopolitical pressure
Flexibility rather than rigid accumulation
Gold is functioning both as a store of value and a liquid strategic asset.
This is not just profit-taking — it’s reserve strategy in motion.
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
For those tracking global monetary realignment:
Central bank gold sales at highs signal portfolio optimization
Sustained BRICS buying supports long-term price floors
Reserve diversification reduces reliance on dollar assets
Retail gold demand reflects rising inflation and trade war hedging
Institutional capital has also rotated toward gold amid tariff tensions and geopolitical uncertainty.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Reserve Asset Diversification
Gold continues to serve as a neutral reserve anchor, particularly for nations navigating sanctions and currency risk.
Pillar 2: Strategic Liquidity Management
The ability to sell into strength demonstrates that gold is not merely symbolic — it is deployable capital.
Rather than abandoning accumulation, this sale may represent a measured rebalancing within a long-term diversification plan.
This is not just profit-taking — it’s reserve strategy in motion.
Seeds of Wisdom Team View
The narrative is evolving.
BRICS nations accumulated gold aggressively after 2022. Now, at record highs, we are seeing selective monetization.
This does not signal retreat — it signals strategy.
When sovereign reserves are actively managed rather than passively stored, gold becomes more than a hedge. It becomes a monetary lever.
This is not just commodity trading — it’s the rebalancing of monetary power assets.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Watcher.Guru — "BRICS Member Dumps 300,000 Ounces of Gold, Makes $1.68 Billion"
World Gold Council — "Central Bank Gold Reserves and Demand Trends"
~~~~~~~~~~
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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Afternoon 2-24-26
US Will Not Decide Iraq’s Prime Minister, Coordination Framework Says
2026-02-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad Iraq’s Shiite Coordination Framework (CF) will not change its nominee for prime minister because of any US decision, senior lawmaker Bahaa Al-Araji told Shafaq News on Tuesday.
Reconstruction and Development (Al-Ima’ar wal Tanmiya) parliamentary bloc leader Al-Araji said the CF will assess the candidate’s acceptability within the alliance and among other political forces, adding that a meeting next week will name a nominee “whether Nouri Al-Maliki or another figure.” He denied receiving any US message and described the premiership as “a purely Iraqi matter.”
US Will Not Decide Iraq’s Prime Minister, Coordination Framework Says
2026-02-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad Iraq’s Shiite Coordination Framework (CF) will not change its nominee for prime minister because of any US decision, senior lawmaker Bahaa Al-Araji told Shafaq News on Tuesday.
Reconstruction and Development (Al-Ima’ar wal Tanmiya) parliamentary bloc leader Al-Araji said the CF will assess the candidate’s acceptability within the alliance and among other political forces, adding that a meeting next week will name a nominee “whether Nouri Al-Maliki or another figure.” He denied receiving any US message and described the premiership as “a purely Iraqi matter.”
Earlier, Al-Maliki told Agence France-Presse he remains committed to his candidacy, as it was agreed within the Framework. Sources have explained to Shafaq News that Al-Maliki sees withdrawal as capitulation to US objections, while some leaders fear removing his name would carry the same political cost.
The Framework, parliament’s ruling alliance, remains divided over Al-Maliki’s bid amid US warnings linked to his 2006–2014 premiership and recent criticism by US President Donald Trump, who cautioned that his return could lead Washington to cut aid to Iraq. The dispute has delayed formal meetings, with mediation efforts underway and talk of rallying a majority vote to revoke his nomination.
Read more: Iraq’s next Prime Minister held hostage by US-Iran standoff
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/US-will-not-decide-Iraq-s-prime-minister-Coordination-Framework-says
February Fuel Prices Surge Internationally
2026-02-24 Shafaq News- Washington Global refined fuel prices moved higher in the third week of February, with 95-octane gasoline reaching $660 per metric ton, S&P Global Commodity Insights Platts reported on Tuesday.
According to the figures shared, the average price of 95-octane gasoline increased 0.8% from $655 a week earlier.
Ninety-octane gasoline climbed to $638 per ton from $634, up 0.6%, while diesel registered a stronger gain, reaching $649 per ton compared with $634, a 2.4% rise.
Kerosene advanced to $688 per ton from $669, up 2.8%, and fuel oil moved up to $436 per ton from $428, marking a 1.9% increase. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) recorded one of the largest weekly jumps, averaging $541 per ton compared with $521 previously, up 3.8%.
In the broader energy market, Brent crude also edged higher, ticking up to $72 per barrel from $71, an increase of 1.4%.
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/February-fuel-prices-surge-internationally
Iraq Inflation Steadies In Early 2026
2026-02-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad Iraq’s inflation held ground in January 2026, keeping the cost of living largely unchanged compared with the same month last year, the Ministry of Planning reported on Tuesday.
Citing figures shared by the Central Statistical Organization and the Geographic Information Systems, Abdul Zahra Al-Hindawi, the Ministry's spokesperson, noted that monthly prices edged up slightly by 0.9% compared with December 2025.
On an annual basis, compared with 2024, inflation followed a shifting pattern throughout the year. Prices rose during the first five months of 2025, peaking in January with an annual increase of 2.3%. From June onward, annual inflation turned negative and continued to decline through the final months of the year.
Iraq’s annual inflation rate stood at 2.6% in 2024, down from 4.4% in 2023 and 5% in 2022, according to recent figures released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Read more: Without oil: Iraq's economic future hanging in the balance
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-inflation-steadies-in-early-2026
Dollar Rises In Baghdad And Erbil
2026-02-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil The US dollar closed Tuesday’s trading higher in Iraq, hovering around 153,000 dinars per 100 dollars.
According to a Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded in Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges at 153,500 dinars per 100 dollars, up from the morning session’s 153,300 dinars.
In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 154,000 dinars and bought it at 153,000 dinars, while in Erbil, selling prices stood at 153,150 dinars and buying prices at 153,100 dinars.
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-rises-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil-6
Gold Prices Gain In Baghdad And Erbil
2026-02-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil On Tuesday, gold prices hovered around 1.12 million IQD per mithqal in Baghdad and Erbil markets, marking an increase from the previous session, according to a survey by Shafaq News Agency.
Gold prices on Baghdad's Al-Nahr Street recorded a selling price of 1.120 million IQD per mithqal (equivalent to five grams) for 21-carat gold, including Gulf, Turkish, and European varieties, with a buying price of 1.116 million IQD. Prices had closed at 1.104 million IQD on Monday.
The selling price for 21-carat Iraqi gold stood at 1.090 million IQD, while the buying price reached 1.086 million IQD.
In jewelry stores, the selling price per mithqal of 21-carat Gulf gold ranged between 1.120 million and 1.130 million IQD, while Iraqi gold sold for between 1.090 million and 1.100 million IQD.
In Erbil, 22-carat gold was sold at 1.178 million IQD per mithqal, 21-carat gold at 1.125 million IQD, and 18-carat gold at 965,000 IQD. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-prices-gain-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil
ISX Trades +$4M In Weekly Trading
2026-02-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad The Iraq Stock Exchange (ISX) recorded more than 5 billion Iraqi dinars (roughly $4M) in trading value last week, marking an 82% increase compared with the previous week.
According to market data, 3.493 billion shares were traded worth 5.676 billion dinars, up 92% in volume from the previous week, through 3,680 transactions.
The ISX60 index closed at 966.09 points, reflecting a 1.43% increase from the previous session.
Investors traded shares of 74 companies, while 20 others saw no activity due to unmatched buy and sell orders. Ten companies remained suspended for failing to submit required disclosures.
Non-Iraqi investors purchased 100 million shares worth 55 million dinars through 44 transactions, while selling 1 billion shares valued at 2 billion dinars through 313 transactions.
The Iraq Stock Exchange holds five trading sessions per week, from Sunday to Thursday, and includes 104 listed Iraqi joint-stock companies representing the banking, telecommunications, industry, agriculture, insurance, financial investment, tourism, hotel, and service sectors. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/ISX-trades-4M-in-weekly-trading
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Morning 2-24-26
Good Morning Dinar Recaps,
Trump Imposes 15% Global Tariffs After Supreme Court Setback
Section 122 Activated as Economists Challenge “Crisis” Justification
Good Morning Dinar Recaps,
Trump Imposes 15% Global Tariffs After Supreme Court Setback
Section 122 Activated as Economists Challenge “Crisis” Justification
Overview
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced new 15% tariffs on imports from all countries, invoking Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 — just hours after the Supreme Court of the United States struck down his previous IEEPA-based tariff framework.
The White House describes the move as necessary to address a “large and serious” balance-of-payments deficit, citing a $1.2 trillion goods trade deficit, a 4% of GDP current account deficit, and a reversal of the U.S. primary income surplus.
Collections began at midnight Tuesday, replacing earlier tariffs ranging from 10% to 50%.
Key Developments
1. Section 122 Tariffs Activated
Section 122 allows tariffs of up to 15% for 150 days to address balance-of-payments concerns. The administration is framing the U.S. trade imbalance as justification for emergency trade measures.
2. Supreme Court Strikes Down Prior Tariffs
The ruling by the Supreme Court invalidated tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), prompting the administration to pivot immediately to a different statutory authority.
3. Economists Dispute the “Crisis” Narrative
Former IMF official Gita Gopinath stated that a true balance-of-payments crisis occurs when a country loses market access or faces surging borrowing costs — conditions not currently present in the U.S.
Experts including Mark Sobel, Josh Lipsky, and Brad Setser argue that:
The floating-dollar system remains stable
Treasury yields do not indicate distress
A trade deficit does not equal a balance-of-payments crisis
4. Legal Questions Surround Section 122
Legal scholars such as Neal Katyal have warned that Section 122 may not be designed to address long-standing trade deficits. The statute historically targets short-term balance-of-payments emergencies — not structural trade gaps.
Small-business advocacy groups, including Liberty Justice Center, are monitoring the situation closely, particularly regarding refunds for previously struck-down tariffs.
Why It Matters
This marks a significant escalation in trade policy:
Across-the-board global tariffs
Rapid legal pivot after judicial defeat
Potential new wave of court challenges
Heightened uncertainty for global trade partners
The administration’s framing of a balance-of-payments “crisis” introduces a new legal and economic narrative — one not widely supported by mainstream economists.
Crisis or Strategy? The Battle Over America’s Trade Deficit
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
For those watching global financial realignment:
Broad tariffs can pressure global supply chains
Trade actions may influence dollar strength and capital flows
Legal instability adds volatility to Treasury and currency markets
Protectionist measures can accelerate de-dollarization discussions abroad
If challenged successfully in court, refund obligations and policy reversals could also impact fiscal planning.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Trade Policy as Monetary Lever
Tariffs are increasingly being used not only for industrial policy but as tools to influence external balances and currency dynamics.
Pillar 2: Legal Limits of Executive Power
The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores growing judicial scrutiny over executive economic authority, adding uncertainty to long-term trade frameworks.
The broader theme: trade, law, and currency policy are converging.
This is not just tariff policy — it’s a recalibration of economic power tools.
Seeds of Wisdom Team View
The $1.2 trillion trade deficit is real — but whether it constitutes a crisis is fiercely debated.
Markets currently show:
Stable Treasury demand
No borrowing-cost surge
Continued dollar reserve dominance
The clash now moves from economics to the courts.
If Section 122 faces similar judicial challenges, trade policy may enter a prolonged period of uncertainty — with ripple effects across markets.
This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Modern Diplomacy — "Trump Rolls Out New Tariffs Amid Debate Over Balance-of-Payments Claims"
Reuters — "Trump invokes Section 122 tariffs after Supreme Court ruling"
~~~~~~~~~~
Brazil’s Lula Urges BRICS Shift to National Currency Trade
De-Dollarization Debate Moves to Center Stage Ahead of India Summit
Overview
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has publicly urged BRICS nations to prioritize trade in national currencies, openly acknowledging that the United States “won’t like it.”
Speaking on Monday, Lula questioned why Brazil must use the U.S. dollar when trading with India or China, arguing that direct currency settlement is both possible and preferable.
The issue is expected to feature prominently at the next **BRICS summit in India.
Key Developments
1. Call to Bypass the U.S. Dollar
Lula emphasized that BRICS members should trade directly in their own currencies, reducing dependence on the dollar in bilateral commerce.
He posed direct questions:
Why must Brazil use the dollar to trade with India?
Why not settle in real and rupee?
Why not use real and yuan for Brazil-China trade?
2. Finance Ministers and Central Banks Tasked
Lula stated that finance ministers and central bank leaders must develop the mechanisms necessary to make national currency settlement operational within BRICS frameworks.
3. Acknowledgment of U.S. Opposition
“The U.S. won’t like it,” Lula admitted — but framed the initiative as a move toward fairer trade and reduced penalties for smaller nations.
4. Timing Amid Global Trade Tensions
The remarks come as several BRICS members have recently negotiated trade arrangements with Washington to avoid tariffs — highlighting the delicate balance between economic alignment and monetary independence.
Why It Matters
This is a direct challenge to the dollar-centric global trade system.
While BRICS has long discussed alternative settlement systems, Lula’s comments signal:
Renewed political momentum
Public framing of de-dollarization
Coordination at the leadership level
Institutional pressure on finance ministries
The debate is no longer theoretical — it is being elevated to summit-level negotiations.
This is not just trade diversification — it’s a strategic shift in settlement power.
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
For those watching global monetary shifts:
National currency trade reduces structural demand for U.S. dollars
Bilateral settlement agreements reshape foreign exchange flows
Central banks may expand currency swap lines
Commodity pricing mechanisms could gradually diversify
Even incremental changes in settlement practices can alter global liquidity patterns over time.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Payment System Diversification
National currency trade initiatives represent parallel settlement architecture developing alongside the dollar system.
Pillar 2: Sovereign Monetary Autonomy
By promoting local currency usage, BRICS nations are asserting greater control over trade financing and reserve exposure.
If implemented gradually, this shift would not dismantle the dollar overnight — but it could reduce marginal dependency year by year.
This is not just diplomacy — it’s a measured rebalancing of global currency influence.
Seeds of Wisdom Team View
The significance is not in rhetoric — it’s in coordination.
When heads of state publicly instruct finance ministers and central bankers to build non-dollar trade systems, structural change becomes plausible.
Whether execution matches ambition remains to be seen. But the direction is clear:
BRICS is not just expanding — it is exploring monetary independence.
This is not just de-dollarization talk — it’s the architecture of alternative payment rails in motion.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
https://watcher.guru/news/brics-push-for-trade-in-national-currencies-brazil-president
Reuters — "Lula urges BRICS trade in local currencies ahead of summit"
~~~~~~~~~~
🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱
If you’ve been holding foreign currency for many years, you were not foolish.
You were not wrong to believe the global financial system would change.
What failed was not your patience — it was the information you were given.
For years, dates, rumors, and personalities replaced facts, structure, and proof. “This week” predictions created cycles of hope and disappointment that were never based on how currencies actually change.
That is not your failure.
Our mission here is different: • No dates • No rates • No hype • No gurus
Instead, we focus on:
• Verifiable developments • Institutional evidence
• Global financial structure • Where countries actually sit in the process
Currency value changes only come after sovereignty, trade, banking, settlement systems, and fiscal coordination are in place. History and institutions confirm this sequence.
You will see silence. You will see denials. That is not delay — that is discipline.
Protect your identity. Organize your documents. Verify everything.
Never hand your discernment to anyone who cannot show proof.
You deserve truth — not timelines.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News
~~~~~~~~~~
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Thank you Dinar Recaps
Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Morning 2-24-26
The Minister Of Oil Reassures Employees: Incentives Are Fixed And The Rights Of Sector Employees Will Not Be Affected.
Money and Business Economy News – Baghdad Oil Minister Hayyan Abdul Ghani affirmed the ministry’s commitment to maintaining the incentive levels received by employees of the oil sector, stressing that there is no intention to tamper with them, in light of what has been circulating regarding government measures related to reducing some privileges.
The Minister Of Oil Reassures Employees: Incentives Are Fixed And The Rights Of Sector Employees Will Not Be Affected.
Money and Business Economy News – Baghdad Oil Minister Hayyan Abdul Ghani affirmed the ministry’s commitment to maintaining the incentive levels received by employees of the oil sector, stressing that there is no intention to tamper with them, in light of what has been circulating regarding government measures related to reducing some privileges.
The minister explained that the gatherings witnessed at the gates of the Ministry of Oil were peaceful demonstrations organized by a number of affiliates after news circulated about the possibility of reducing incentives, indicating that the ministry attaches great importance to the stability of the conditions of workers in this vital sector.
Abdul Ghani pointed out that the ministry is working to raise crude oil production rates from 3 million and 400 thousand barrels per day to more than 3 million and 450 thousand barrels per day, in addition to the quantities exported through the Ceyhan port, noting that the quantities of oil received from the Kurdistan Region amounted to 210 thousand barrels per day.
He added that the oil sector personnel played a key role in increasing the production of oil derivatives and achieving self-sufficiency, as well as the remarkable development in the gas sector and the investment of extracted quantities to operate gas stations.
The minister stressed that the ministry, with the support and follow-up of the Prime Minister, is keen to ensure the stability of the financial privileges of employees, in line with the importance of the oil sector and its pivotal role in supporting the national economy. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=66028
The Dollar Rises Slightly Against The Turkish Lira.
Money and Business Economy News - Follow-up The exchange rate of the US dollar against the Turkish lira recorded a slight increase in trading on Tuesday, reaching 43.86 Turkish lira, an increase of 0.03 lira from yesterday's close, equivalent to a change of 0.06%, amid continued pressure on the Turkish currency.
This move comes at a time when market indicators point to a clear gap between official rhetoric and monetary policy on the one hand, and investor behavior on the other. Despite more than two years of monetary tightening aimed at curbing inflation, which has fallen to around 31%, the cost of these policies on economic activity and purchasing power has limited any improvement in confidence in the lira in the near term.
The dollar had earlier touched a new record high of 43.16 lira, reflecting continued pressure in the exchange market and reinforcing questions about the ability of current monetary policy to restore monetary balance and support currency stability in the coming period. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=66032
The Crisis In Iranian Exports To Iraq: Customs Tariffs Reduce Khuzestan's Trade By 50%
Money and Business Economy News – Baghdad The head of the Ahvaz Chamber of Commerce, Shahla Amouri, stated that the value of non-oil exports from Iran’s Khuzestan province to Iraq, one of Iran’s most important strategic trading partners, has decreased by about 50%, and attributed this “sharp” decline to customs pricing policies.
Amouri stated that comparative customs data showed a significant decrease in shipments to Iraq. Exports from Khuzestan to Iraq amounted to $2.167 billion in the first nine months of the last Iranian year, but fell to $1.219 billion in the first ten months of the current year, marking a decline of approximately 50% in the value of exports to this strategic trading partner.
She pointed out that the main challenge lies in the way customs authorities calculate the value of exported goods, stressing that officials still rely on reference prices set by the state, which are significantly different from market reality and competitive prices in export markets.
Amouri explained that when an exporter sells goods in the competitive Iraqi market for $100, customs authorities may record the value at $150 based on internal calculations and guidelines. As a result, the exporter is required to repatriate foreign currency equivalent to the higher declared value.
According to the head of the Ahvaz Chamber of Commerce, this approach has created what she described as a "false commitment to foreign currency," where the government and the central bank expect traders to bring $150 back into the local economic cycle, even though they only receive $100 from the buyer.
She noted that this discrepancy forces exporters to seek the shortage in the open market to meet their foreign currency obligations, leading to increasing losses and, in many cases, to companies exiting the target markets.
Amouri added that exporters also face significant additional costs to circumvent sanctions and transfer funds into the country, expenses not accounted for by customs authorities or the central bank. Nevertheless, traders are required to repatriate the full amount declared in customs documents, even if this figure exceeds the actual value of the transaction.
She went on to say that increasing financial pressures have prompted many exporters in Khuzestan to withdraw from the Iraqi market, warning that unless the customs authorities review their evaluation methods, raising the ceiling on foreign currency transfers will only further penalize exporters and accelerate the erosion of what remains of the province's trade.
The Iraqi government raised customs duties by percentages ranging between 5% and 30%, distributed across brackets starting from 5%, 10% and 15%, up to the maximum limit of 30%.
These ratios cover the entire customs tariff register consisting of 99 chapters containing approximately 16,400 customs items, which are the items adopted globally in trade. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=66021
Iraq Asserts Its Maritime Rights At The United Nations... A Sovereign Move That Faces Kuwaiti And Gulf Objections!
Reports Economy News – Baghdad In a remarkable diplomatic and legal development, Iraq officially deposited its maritime maps with the United Nations based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which opened the door to a political and legal debate with Kuwait, and broad Gulf solidarity with the Kuwaiti position.
According to an official notification issued by the United Nations (reference MZN172.2026.LOS) dated 18 February 2026, Iraq deposited on 19 January and 9 February 2026 lists of geographical coordinates accompanied by an illustrative map, pursuant to Article 16, paragraph 2, Article 75, paragraph 2, and Article 84, paragraph 2 of the Convention.
The deposit relates to determining straight baselines and baselines originating from island elevations, in addition to measuring the territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, with the adoption of the World Geodetic System (WGS-84) as a reference for coordinates, and this procedure replaces previous deposits in 2011 and 2021.
On December 3, 2025, Iraq officially deposited its maritime boundary map with the United Nations, pursuant to Cabinet Resolution No. (266) of 2025. This resolution approved the map, which was prepared by an Iraqi technical and legal team that conducted hydrographic studies and measurements to determine the coordinates in accordance with relevant international agreements.
The map also affirms respect for the rights of neighboring countries and guarantees freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of traffic. The Iraqi government reiterated its commitment to the relevant Security Council resolutions concerning relations with Kuwait and its intention to continue the technical and legal process for demarcating the maritime boundary beyond marker 162, as part of its efforts to resolve outstanding issues and build balanced relations with neighboring countries.
The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed in a statement issued on February 22, 2026, that the decision to deposit the map of maritime zones is a sovereign matter based on national laws, the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and the rules of international law.
It emphasized that the determination of maritime zones came to collect and complete previous legal procedures in one document supported by accurate coordinates, taking into account the development in international law of the sea, including the expansion of the coastal state’s jurisdiction, and noting that no state has the right to interfere in this matter, while Iraq respects the provisions and principles of international law.
In response, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs asserted that the list of coordinates and map submitted by the Republic of Iraq to the United Nations, as it described it, infringes upon Kuwait's sovereignty over its maritime zones and established and stable watersheds in relation to Iraq, such as Fasht al-Qaid and Fasht al-Aij, over which Kuwait maintains its full sovereignty has never been disputed.
The Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry summoned the Iraqi chargé d'affaires to deliver a formal protest note, urging Baghdad to consider the historical relationship between the two countries and to act responsibly in accordance with the rules of international law, the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and bilateral understandings and agreements.
The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain announced their solidarity with Kuwait in the measures it is taking to protect its rights and interests, affirming their rejection of any infringement on its sovereignty or claims affecting its maritime zones, and stressing the importance of adhering to international law and the provisions of the 1982 agreement.
Saudi Arabia also affirmed its categorical rejection of any claims by any other party to rights in the submerged divided zone adjacent to the Saudi-Kuwaiti divided zone, noting the need to respect Security Council Resolution 833 concerning the demarcation of the border between the two countries.
On the domestic front, MP Mohammed Jassim Al-Khafaji asserted that the Kuwaiti map of maritime areas demonstrates the extent of the encroachment on Iraqi territorial waters, considering that this explains Kuwait’s strong objection to the new Iraqi map.
He explained that the Iraqi map was prepared by a technical and legal committee of 24 members formed under Diwani Order No. 480 of 2024, and included Iraqi experts along with two foreign experts, one German and the other Lebanese. He indicated that the Kuwaiti map was approved under Amiri Decree No. 317 of 2014, while Iraq completed its map in 2026, after about 12 years, stressing that the file requires follow-up and a strong will to protect sovereign rights.
For his part, Jamal Al-Halbousi, an expert on borders and international waters, confirmed that the preparation of the map of Iraqi maritime areas was done according to a professional technical and legal process with the participation of Iraqi and international experts, and that the joint Iraqi-Kuwaiti committee held 13 meetings and had been aware of the map for several months.
He pointed out that the map was presented in February 2025 to the German expert, Rodger Wolfren, the former head of the Sea Court, who expressed his support for the professionalism of the work, noting that there was what he described as an overreach in the Kuwaiti map issued in 2014.
He explained that a specialized committee within the Department of Marine Sciences at the United Nations studied the map and found it, according to his statement, to be consistent with the provisions of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in terms of the measurements and materials used.
He indicated that the map defined Iraq's maritime extent as 86 nautical miles from the baseline, comprising 12 nautical miles for the territorial sea, 12 nautical miles for the contiguous zone, and 62 nautical miles for the exclusive economic zone, noting that some fields share the contiguous and exclusive economic zones. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=65982
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Monday Evening 2-23-26
Good Evening Dinar Recaps,
Trump’s “Board of Peace” Weighs Stablecoin for Gaza Reconstruction
Digital Currency Enters Post-War Economic Strategy
Good Evening Dinar Recaps,
Trump’s “Board of Peace” Weighs Stablecoin for Gaza Reconstruction
Digital Currency Enters Post-War Economic Strategy
Overview
The Board of Peace, launched by Donald Trump, is reportedly exploring the creation of a stablecoin to support Gaza’s post-war reconstruction. According to reporting from the Financial Times, the proposal is in early-stage discussions and would aim to allow Gazans to transact digitally — not replace fiat currency.
This development signals a potential intersection of geopolitics, digital finance, and reconstruction policy in one of the world’s most fragile regions.
Key Developments
1. Stablecoin Under Preliminary Discussion
The proposed token would function as a digital transaction mechanism, not a meme coin and not a fiat replacement. Its purpose would be to enable digital payments and economic participation inside Gaza.
2. $1 Billion Membership Requirement
The Board of Peace requires $1 billion contributions per member nation for a permanent, renewable role. The U.S. pledged $10 billion, while 26 countries joined as founding members — including Israel, Saudi Arabia, Hungary, and El Salvador. Several Western European nations declined participation.
3. GENIUS Act Signals U.S. Stablecoin Support
The Trump administration has shown broader support for digital asset infrastructure, including signing the GENIUS Act into law, expanding the regulatory pathway for stablecoins within the United States.
4. Gaza Already Sees Stablecoin Activity
According to blockchain intelligence sources, over $100 million in stablecoins has reportedly moved through OTC desks in Gaza over the last two years — largely without regulatory oversight. This suggests that digital dollar infrastructure may already be functioning informally in the region.
5. Tokenized Land Proposal Also Floated
Reports indicate discussions within Trump’s orbit about potentially tokenizing postwar Gaza land, with digital tokens tied to redevelopment and relocation plans — part of a broader vision to transform Gaza economically following the October 2025 ceasefire.
Why It Matters
This is more than humanitarian aid.
It signals a potential shift toward:
Digital currency as a reconstruction tool
Stablecoins embedded in foreign policy
Blockchain rails used in geopolitically sensitive regions
Private-public financial coordination at sovereign scale
If implemented, the Gaza stablecoin would represent one of the first major attempts to use regulated digital dollar infrastructure as a structured economic recovery instrument.
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
For those tracking global monetary realignment:
Stablecoins are increasingly state-aligned, not fringe crypto tools.
Reconstruction finance may move onto blockchain-based settlement rails.
Cross-border capital flows could bypass legacy banking channels.
Dollar-backed digital assets may expand influence through strategic deployment.
This supports the broader thesis that digital payment systems are becoming geopolitical instruments, not just financial products.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Digital Infrastructure Expansion
Stablecoins are evolving into sovereign-adjacent financial tools, potentially forming parallel settlement systems in unstable regions.
Pillar 2: Asset Tokenization
If land tokenization proceeds, it would accelerate the shift toward real-world asset (RWA) digitization, merging property rights, blockchain verification, and capital allocation.
This is not just regional rebuilding — it’s experimentation with next-generation monetary architecture.
Seeds of Wisdom Team View
While the proposal remains premature, the direction is clear:
Digital currency is moving from speculation to strategic deployment.
The question is no longer if stablecoins will integrate into global systems — but where and how fast.
When reconstruction, geopolitics, and blockchain intersect, the financial system is being quietly re-engineered.
When Foreign Policy Meets Fintech: Stablecoins Go Strategic
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Cointelegraph — "Trump‘s Board of Peace said mulling stablecoin for Gaza efforts: FT"
Financial Times — "Trump board considers stablecoin plan for Gaza reconstruction"
~~~~~~~~~~
Ukraine’s Reconstruction Bill Soars to $588 Billion
World Bank Report Signals Economic Rebuild on Historic Scale
Overview
A new joint assessment from the World Bank, United Nations, European Commission, and the Ukrainian government estimates that Ukraine will require $588 billion over the next decade to rebuild.
The updated figure represents a 12% increase from last year’s estimate, underscoring the intensifying economic toll of the war.
The financial scale is historic — and the implications stretch far beyond Ukraine.
Key Developments
1. $588 Billion in Reconstruction Needs
The revised projection reflects mounting destruction, particularly a 21% surge in energy infrastructure damage. The report does not yet include Russia’s most recent intensified strikes.
2. $195 Billion in Direct Damage
Total direct damage has now reached $195 billion, up 11% from the previous assessment. The hardest-hit sectors include:
Housing — $61 billion in losses (14% of housing stock damaged)
Transport — $40.3 billion, heavily impacting railways
Energy — $25 billion due to repeated missile strikes
3. GDP Shrinkage and Slow Recovery Outlook
Ukraine’s economy has contracted 21% since 2021.
If hostilities continue, GDP growth may hover around 2% this year, but could rise toward 4% with a ceasefire.
4. Refugee and Demographic Crisis
The war has triggered Europe’s largest refugee crisis since World War II:
6+ million Ukrainians displaced abroad
4.6 million internally displaced
2.4 million fewer children than before the conflict
Reintegration and workforce expansion will be critical to economic recovery.
5. Funding Strategy and Private Sector Role
Ukraine has already:
Allocated $15.25 billion for reconstruction
Spent $20.3 billion on urgent repairs
The report suggests that up to 40% of reconstruction needs could come from private investment, contingent upon structural reforms and improved business conditions.
Why It Matters
This is not just rebuilding — this is nation-scale economic restructuring.
At nearly three times Ukraine’s projected 2025 GDP, the reconstruction cost signals:
Massive capital mobilization ahead
Expanded multilateral coordination
Potential sovereign debt restructuring
Large-scale infrastructure modernization
The size of the rebuild makes Ukraine one of the most significant reconstruction projects in modern history.
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
For those watching global financial realignment:
Large-scale rebuilding may involve new financing mechanisms
Infrastructure funding could expand digital payment and settlement systems
Sovereign bonds and international guarantees may reshape regional capital flows
Reconstruction funding may influence currency stabilization frameworks
When hundreds of billions move through multilateral pipelines, global liquidity channels adjust.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Multilateral Financial Coordination
The involvement of the World Bank, UN, and European Commission signals centralized reconstruction governance at an international scale.
Pillar 2: Infrastructure Modernization
Rebuilding energy, transport, and housing sectors opens the door to modernized grids, digital systems, and next-generation infrastructure.
Ukraine’s recovery could become a blueprint for post-conflict economic redesign — merging public funding, private capital, and strategic geopolitical alignment.
This is not just war recovery — it is global capital repositioning.
Seeds of Wisdom Team View
The $588 billion figure reflects more than destruction — it reflects the cost of rebuilding an economy under fire.
History shows that reconstruction periods often accelerate:
Financial system reforms
Public-private partnerships
Currency stabilization efforts
Infrastructure digitization
Ukraine stands at the intersection of conflict, capital, and systemic redesign.
From Destruction to Redesign: Ukraine’s Economic Reset Begins
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Modern Diplomacy — "Cost to rebuild Ukraine surges to $588 billion, World Bank reports"
Reuters — "Ukraine reconstruction needs rise sharply, joint assessment finds"
~~~~~~~~~~
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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Monday Evening 2-23-26
President Barzani, US's Barrack Discuss Bilateral Ties And Regional Developments
2026-02-23 / 12:58 Shafaq News- Erbil The Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani on Monday affirmed that the Region will remain a factor of security and stability, stressing the importance of continued dialogue as the path forward. In a statement, the Kurdistan Region Presidency said Barzani received the US Ambassador to Turkiye and Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack, along with his accompanying delegation, in the presence of US Chargé d’Affaires to Iraq Joshua Harris.
President Barzani, US's Barrack Discuss Bilateral Ties And Regional Developments
2026-02-23 / 12:58 Shafaq News- Erbil The Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani on Monday affirmed that the Region will remain a factor of security and stability, stressing the importance of continued dialogue as the path forward. In a statement, the Kurdistan Region Presidency said Barzani received the US Ambassador to Turkiye and Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack, along with his accompanying delegation, in the presence of US Chargé d’Affaires to Iraq Joshua Harris.
The delegation conveyed their appreciation for Barzani’s initiatives aimed at stabilizing the region, easing tensions, and facilitating an agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the statement added, noting that the talks addressed relations between the United States and both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, as well as the latest developments in Syria and the political landscape in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
“Brazani highlighted the necessity of resolving issues through peaceful means and upholding peace and stability in the region,” the statement noted.
X Nechirvan Barzani @IKRPresident
I’m pleased to receive @USAMBTurkiye Tom Barrack, accompanied by @USEmbBaghdad CDA Joshua Harris. We had productive discussions on Iraq–U.S. relations, the political process in the country, and recent developments in Syria. I reiterated the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to peace and stability, and we stressed the importance of continued dialogue as the path forward.
Earlier, the US envoy met in Baghdad with caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein. Hepresented Washington’s perspective on Iraqi government formation, expressing theUS appreciation for the Iraqi government’s step to transfer members of ISIS from detention facilities abroad to prisons inside Iraq. The move, he noted, reflects efforts to reinforce Iraq’s sovereignty and assume its legal responsibilities.
Leader Barzani Urges Mechanism Reflecting Kurdish Will In Choosing Iraq’s President
2026-02-23 Shafaq News- Erbil Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) leader Masoud Barzani called on Monday for the establishment of an appropriate mechanism to determine the presidential candidate in a manner that reflects the will of the Kurdish people.
According to a statement from Barzani’s headquarters, the remarks were made during his meeting with US envoy Tom Barrack, in Erbil, in the presence of Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani.
Barzani stressed that the Coordination Framework, a coalition of predominantly Shiite political forces, would determine the candidate for premiership, underlining the need to prioritize Iraq’s national interests. “The next prime minister should be committed to the constitution, principles of partnership, balance, and compromise,” the statement added.
He reiterated the need for the next Iraqi government to commit to implementing the constitution and the principles of federalism, as well as to enact laws related to unresolved and critical issues for the future of Iraq’s people, including the oil and gas law, Article 140 of the constitution concerning disputed territories, and legislation linked to implementing federal principles within the Iraqi state.
Regarding regional relationships, Barzani added that Iraq should maintain shared interests with all its neighbors, while taking into account the partnership with the United States.
Barrack emphasized that the United States supports Iraq’s sovereignty, underscoring the importance of strong relations and partnership with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. “He commended Brazani’s role in preventing the escalation of war and violence, as well as his efforts to contain recent developments in Syria,” the statement added.
Earlier in the day, the US envoy met in Baghdad with caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein. He presented Washington’s perspective on Iraqi government formation, expressing the US appreciation for the Iraqi government’s step to transfer members of ISIS from detention facilities abroad to prisons inside Iraq. The move, he noted, reflects efforts to reinforce Iraq’s sovereignty and assume its legal responsibilities.
The Central Bank Of Iraq Warns Against Scams And Fraud Perpetrated Using Various Banknotes - 2/23/2026
The Central Bank of Iraq has detected several scams perpetrated by unscrupulous individuals targeting citizens for financial gain. The bank urges the public to exercise caution and avoid falling victim to these schemes.
In a statement, the bank outlined several common methods used within Iraq, including:
1- Selling a $1,000,000 bill as genuine currency when it is actually a commemorative note no longer in circulation. The highest denomination in circulation is $100.
2- Distributing black paper cut to the same dimensions as a dollar bill, claiming it is genuine $100 bills coated with a black substance. The scammers falsely claim that these bills will be recirculated after the black coating is removed.
3- Distributing banknotes withdrawn from circulation by various countries, which have no monetary value, and exchanging them for Iraqi dinars at inflated prices. These scammers employ various tactics, pretexts, and false claims to deceive their victims.
4- Counterfeit or printed dollar and dinar banknotes bearing the words "model," "invalid," or "null" are being used as children's toys and are being promoted as genuine banknotes. The Central Bank of Iraq confirms that the relevant authorities have been notified to prevent their printing or importation from outside Iraq.
Central Bank of Iraq, Media Office, February 23, 2026 https://cbi.iq/news/view/3136
US Envoy Conveys Washington’s Vision On Iraq Government Formation
2026-02-23 Shafaq News- Baghdad Iraq’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Fuad Hussein, stated on Monday that forming the country’s government is a sovereign Iraqi matter, while noting that Baghdad takes into account the views of its international partners, particularly the United States, as an ally.
His remarks came during a meeting in Baghdad with US envoy Tom Barrack, according to a statement by the Iraqi Foreign Ministry, which said the Barrack presented Washington’s perspective on the issue.
Read more: Al-Maliki pledges global partnerships under Iraqi sovereignty
Hussein cautioned against the outbreak of any war between the United States and Iran, warning of its potential consequences for the wider region. He also reaffirmed Iraq’s support for diplomatic efforts and the upcoming round of negotiations scheduled in Geneva under Omani mediation.
Barrack, for his part, expressed US appreciation for the Iraqi government’s step to transfer members of ISIS from detention facilities abroad to prisons inside Iraq. The move, he noted, reflects efforts to reinforce Iraq’s sovereignty and assume its legal responsibilities. Hussein said Iraq remains in contact with several countries to arrange the repatriation of their nationals implicated in terrorism-related cases, praising the Turkish government’s agreement to receive its citizens among those detainees.
Both sides reiterated their support for the agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), stressing the importance of implementing its provisions.
X وزارة الخارجية العراقية @Iraqimofa
Foreign Minister discusses with the US envoy strengthening security cooperation and developments in the regional situation – Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs https://mofa.gov.iq/2026/61614/
The US Envoy also met Faiq Zidan, head of Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council, to review legal procedures related to detainees transferred from prisons in Syria to Iraq.
In separate talks with Mohammed Al-Halbousi, leader of the Taqaddum Party, Barrack discussed enhancing economic cooperation and maintaining coordination in counterterrorism efforts, and addressed recent regional developments, developments in Syria, and bilateral cooperation on security and detainee files, with both sides emphasizing support for Syria’s stability.
On Sunday, Barrack met caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and described the talks as fruitful. Posting on X, he added that discussions focused on “continued Iraqi goals and objectives to build a sovereign, stable, and prosperous future that aligns with POTUS’s desire and plan for peace and prosperity in the region.”
X Ambassador Tom Barrack @USAMBTurkiye
Fruitful meeting with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani @IraqiPMO discussing continued Iraqi goals and objectives to build a sovereign, stable, and prosperous future that aligns with @POTUS ’s desire and plan for peace and prosperity in the region. The necessity of effective leadership that aligns itself with the policies and practices of further stabilization for Iraq and the Iraqi people is key to our mutual goals.
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/US-Envoy-conveys-US-vision-on-Iraq-government-formation
Trump Reviews Multi-Tiered Military Offensive On Iran
2026-02-23 Shafaq News- Washington US President Donald Trump is weighing military options against Iran if diplomacy fails, The New York Times reported on Monday, as negotiators prepare for a new round of indirect nuclear talks in Geneva next week.
Citing US officials, the newspaper noted that Trump is considering an initial limited strike to pressure Tehran to abandon its nuclear ambitions, with potential targets including Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) bases, nuclear facilities, and ballistic missile programs. If these measures fail, the outlet reported that a broader campaign could be launched later this year aimed at weakening or toppling the Iranian regime.
Trump’s advisers warned that while an initial strike could send a strong message, doubts remain over whether airstrikes alone can compel Iran to change course. The president is also exploring a settlement that would allow Iran a restricted nuclear enrichment program for research and medical purposes, though it remains unclear whether either side would accept such terms.
Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated he will likely meet US envoy Steve Witkoff in Geneva next week, pointing out that a “good chance” remains for a diplomatic solution on Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
Meanwhile, Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesperson for the Iranian National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, described the negotiations as “decisive,” warning they will shape the fate of US troops in the region.
In a post on X, he framed next week’s talks as a “test for Donald Trump,” stressing that failure could trigger confrontation or war between the two nations.
X ابراهیم رضایی @EbrahimRezaei14
Thursday's negotiations are a test for Trump and will determine whether American soldiers will go to hell or return to America.
On February 19, Trump set a 15-day deadline for Iran to reach what he called a “meaningful deal,” warning of potential consequences. Tehran, however, reaffirmed its uranium enrichment rights. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian remarked that “global powers are lining up to force us to bow our heads, but we will not bow.”
Both sides have resumed Omani-mediated talks this month, holding rounds in Muscat and Geneva. Meanwhile, The New York Times, citing satellite imagery and flight data, previously reported that more than 60 US attack aircraft are now stationed at Jordan’s Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, nearly triple the usual number, with at least 68 transport aircraft arriving since February 15.
Read more: Iran–US talks: Diplomatic breakthrough or imminent military confrontation?
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Middle-East/Trump-reviews-multi-tiered-military-offensive-on-Iran
$845 Trillion Derivative Crisis as US Banks Prepare for Bail-ins
$845 Trillion Derivative Crisis as US Banks Prepare for Bail-ins
Taylor Kenny: 2-22-2026
The global financial system is teetering on the edge of a precipice, with a ticking time bomb waiting to unleash a potentially catastrophic crisis. At the heart of this threat lies the gargantuan derivatives market, valued at a staggering $845 trillion.
This complex web of financial bets, layered repeatedly over the same debt, poses a systemic risk that could have far-reaching and devastating consequences.
$845 Trillion Derivative Crisis as US Banks Prepare for Bail-ins
Taylor Kenny: 2-22-2026
The global financial system is teetering on the edge of a precipice, with a ticking time bomb waiting to unleash a potentially catastrophic crisis. At the heart of this threat lies the gargantuan derivatives market, valued at a staggering $845 trillion.
This complex web of financial bets, layered repeatedly over the same debt, poses a systemic risk that could have far-reaching and devastating consequences.
The derivatives market’s role in the 2008 financial crisis is well-documented. The crisis was triggered by a concentration of risk within a few large banks, which ultimately led to a global economic meltdown.
However, the current landscape is far more complicated, with risk now dispersed across the financial ecosystem, including pension funds, hedge funds, and asset managers.
The proliferation of sophisticated financial instruments, such as Synthetic Risk Transfers (SRTs), has enabled banks to offload risk from their balance sheets without selling the underlying loans, creating a false sense of security.
SRTs, in particular, have become a double-edged sword. While they allow banks to manage their risk exposure, they also increase the likelihood of contagion, as risk is spread across a broader range of institutions.
The involvement of unregulated shadow banks and private credit funds has further exacerbated the problem, as these entities operate outside traditional oversight and now account for half of all global financial assets.
Regulators have sounded the alarm, warning of the rapid growth and interconnectedness of these risk transfers. The consequences of inaction could be severe, with vulnerable areas such as commercial real estate loans, subprime auto loans, and the growing private credit sector facing rising defaults and high leverage.
One of the most insidious aspects of the current financial landscape is the concept of a “bail-in.” Implemented quietly after the 2008 crisis, this mechanism allows banks to absorb losses by converting depositors’ funds into bank equity or restricting access to their accounts.
In other words, in the event of a bank failure, it is the depositors and creditors, rather than governments, who will bear the brunt of the losses. This scenario has already played out in countries like Cyprus and Lebanon, leaving many to wonder if they are prepared for the worst.
So, what can be done to mitigate this looming threat? The first step is to acknowledge the systemic risk posed by the derivatives market and take proactive measures to protect one’s wealth. For those who are prepared, there are strategies that can be employed to safeguard their financial future.
One such strategy is to diversify assets outside the traditional banking system. Physical gold and silver, for example, can serve as an insurance policy against financial collapse. By holding these precious metals, individuals can reduce their exposure to the risks associated with the derivatives market and create a buffer against potential losses.
As the derivatives market continues to pose a threat to global financial stability, it is essential to stay informed and be prepared.
By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to mitigate them, individuals can safeguard their financial future and weather the storm.
For further insights and information, watch the full video from ITM Trading with Taylor Kenney, which provides a comprehensive analysis of the derivatives market and its potential risks.
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Monday Afternoon 2-23-26
Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,
“Sell America” Panic: Markets Plunge Amid Trump’s Tariff Chaos
Trade policy whiplash sparks global volatility as investors flee risk assets and question U.S. stability
Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,
“Sell America” Panic: Markets Plunge Amid Trump’s Tariff Chaos
Trade policy whiplash sparks global volatility as investors flee risk assets and question U.S. stability
Overview
U.S. trade policy uncertainty triggered sharp global market volatility.
U.S. stock futures declined, while the dollar weakened against safe-haven currencies.
Gold, silver, and government bonds rallied amid risk-off positioning.
Legal ambiguity following a Supreme Court ruling deepened investor anxiety.
Following a ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States invalidating emergency trade levies, President Donald Trump moved to impose a new 15% tariff under Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act. Markets reacted swiftly, rotating out of U.S. risk assets and into traditional safe havens as uncertainty around timing, legality, and scope intensified.
Key Developments
1. Wall Street Futures and the Dollar Slide
U.S. equity futures fell sharply, with S&P 500 futures down 0.5% and Nasdaq futures down 0.6%. The dollar weakened across major pairs — losing ground to the Japanese yen and Swiss franc, while the euro advanced.
European markets echoed caution, with broad-based declines in major indices. Meanwhile, Asian markets diverged, as some investors interpreted tariff recalibration as potentially less punitive for certain exporters.
2. Safe-Haven Assets Surge
Investors rushed into gold (+0.6%) and silver (+2%), reinforcing classic flight-to-safety behavior. U.S. 10-year Treasury yields dipped to 4.077%, reflecting bond-buying pressure.
Energy markets reversed earlier geopolitical gains. Brent crude fell 1.1%, signaling concerns that trade disruption could dampen global demand.
3. Legal and Policy Ambiguity Deepens Uncertainty
The Supreme Court’s rejection of emergency levies forced the administration to pivot to Section 122, a rarely used and legally untested statute. Analysts estimate the average effective tariff rate may fluctuate significantly over the coming months, depending on exemptions and duration.
The repeated cycle of announcement → legal challenge → revision has amplified uncertainty across global supply chains, currency markets, and corporate earnings forecasts.
4. Market Fragility Exposed
The volatility highlights how modern markets are not merely reacting to tariffs themselves — but to the instability of policymaking. Corporate giants with heavy index weightings, including Nvidia, now face heightened scrutiny as trade turbulence increases earnings sensitivity.
Why It Matters
This episode underscores a core Global Reset theme: policy unpredictability is now a systemic market risk.
When trade rules shift rapidly and legal frameworks are contested, investors begin to question institutional stability. That can accelerate capital rotation away from perceived risk jurisdictions — even the United States.
When Policy Becomes Volatile, Capital Becomes Defensive.
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
A weakening dollar amid tariff instability impacts global reserve positioning.
Safe-haven demand strengthens alternative stores of value.
Currency volatility increases hedging activity across emerging markets.
For foreign currency holders, this signals a broader recalibration: confidence in predictable U.S. trade policy is a cornerstone of dollar dominance. Sustained unpredictability could gradually erode that trust.
Dollar Dominance Depends on Stability — Not Surprises.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Institutional Credibility Under Pressure
Frequent legal reversals and executive pivots raise questions about long-term policy reliability.Pillar 2: Capital Seeks Neutral Ground
Gold, silver, and neutral currencies gain appeal when political risk intrudes into trade frameworks.
In an interconnected financial system, the cost of uncertainty often outweighs the intent of protectionism. Markets now hedge not only against tariffs — but against the volatility of decision-making itself.
In a Global Reset Era, Stability Is the Ultimate Currency.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Modern Diplomacy — “Sell America Panic: Markets Plunge Amid Trump’s Tariff Chaos”
Reuters — “Global markets slide as U.S. tariff uncertainty shakes investor confidence”
~~~~~~~~~
Russia Pursuing BRICS Bridge for an Alternative Financial Corridor
Sanctions pressure accelerates Moscow’s pivot toward alternative trade routes and CBDC-linked settlement systems
Overview
• Russia intensifies diversification away from Western financial systems
• INSTC shortens trade routes by 40%, bypassing the Suez Canal
• BRICS Bridge advances as a CBDC-linked payment rail
• Effort aims to reduce dollar dependency and sanction vulnerability
Under sustained Western sanctions and geopolitical isolation, Russia is accelerating efforts to reconfigure its trade and financial architecture. According to reports, Moscow is deepening engagement with the BRICS Bridge initiative and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) to create parallel economic channels beyond U.S. and European influence.
Key Developments
1. INSTC: A Strategic Trade Realignment
The International North-South Transport Corridor is a 7,200-kilometer multimodal network connecting Russia to India via Iran through sea, rail, and road links.
• Transit time reduced from 45 days to 25 days
• Approximately 40% shorter than traditional Suez Canal routes
• Expands Russia’s connectivity to Middle Eastern and Asian markets
By leveraging this corridor, Russia aims to minimize reliance on Western-controlled maritime routes and strengthen South-South trade flows.
2. BRICS Bridge: CBDC-Based Financial Bypass
The BRICS Bridge is a blockchain-based cross-border payment platform designed to interlink central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) of member states.
Participating nations include:
Russia China India UAE Brazil South Africa Iran
The platform enables peer-to-peer central bank wallet transfers, reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar and Western clearing systems. Reports suggest potential transaction cost reductions of up to 40%.
3. India’s Proposal for Unified CBDC Linkage
The Reserve Bank of India has proposed linking member CBDCs to a single settlement reference unit for intra-BRICS trade. This proposal is expected to be discussed at the upcoming summit in New Delhi.
This signals that BRICS is exploring not just digital interoperability — but structured monetary coordination.
4. Sanctions as Catalyst
Western sanctions and disrupted trade routes have accelerated Moscow’s pivot. Rather than retreating economically, Russia is attempting to engineer parallel infrastructure — both physical (INSTC) and digital (BRICS Bridge).
However, implementation challenges remain. While the INSTC is operationally advancing, the BRICS Bridge remains in advanced pilot phase, and full multilateral coordination will require political and technical alignment across diverse economies.
Why It Matters
This is not simply about trade logistics — it is about financial sovereignty under pressure.
By developing independent corridors and CBDC-linked rails, Russia and BRICS partners are building the structural foundations of a multipolar financial architecture.
When Sanctions Close Doors, New Corridors Open.
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
• Reduced dollar settlement demand could gradually reshape FX liquidity patterns.
• CBDC interoperability challenges traditional correspondent banking systems.
• Alternative trade routes strengthen non-Western economic blocs.
For foreign currency holders, the significance lies in the infrastructure shift. Payment systems determine reserve demand over time. If BRICS settlement mechanisms scale, the long-term gravitational pull of the dollar could soften — even incrementally.
Payment Rails Shape Power — Not Just Politics.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Alternative Infrastructure Emerges
The INSTC and BRICS Bridge represent parallel systems forming outside traditional Western frameworks.Pillar 2: Digital Currency Diplomacy Expands
CBDC interlinking introduces programmable, state-level monetary coordination.
Russia’s strategy illustrates a broader reset dynamic: economic isolation accelerates financial innovation. Whether the BRICS Bridge reaches full operational scale remains uncertain, but the direction is clear — diversification away from single-pole financial dominance.
The Global Reset Is Built on Corridors — Physical and Digital.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Watcher Guru — “Russia Pursuing BRICS Bridge for an Alternative Financial Corridor”
Anadolu Agency (AA News) — “Russia expands INSTC and alternative trade corridors amid sanctions”
~~~~~~~~~~
🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱
If you’ve been holding foreign currency for many years, you were not foolish.
You were not wrong to believe the global financial system would change.
What failed was not your patience — it was the information you were given.
For years, dates, rumors, and personalities replaced facts, structure, and proof. “This week” predictions created cycles of hope and disappointment that were never based on how currencies actually change.
That is not your failure.
Our mission here is different: • No dates • No rates • No hype • No gurus
Instead, we focus on:
• Verifiable developments • Institutional evidence
• Global financial structure • Where countries actually sit in the process
Currency value changes only come after sovereignty, trade, banking, settlement systems, and fiscal coordination are in place. History and institutions confirm this sequence.
You will see silence. You will see denials. That is not delay — that is discipline.
Protect your identity. Organize your documents. Verify everything.
Never hand your discernment to anyone who cannot show proof.
You deserve truth — not timelines.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News
~~~~~~~~~
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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Monday Afternoon 2-23-26
Lists Of Those Restricted From Dealing In US Dollars
The Central Bank of Iraq is currently leading an initiative aimed at reforming the Iraqi banking sector. This requires licensed and supervised Iraqi financial institutions to undergo a thorough and rigorous reform process. Until this reform is complete, the banks listed below are prohibited from participating in the foreign exchange auction or dealing in US dollars, either directly or indirectly.
Lists Of Those Restricted From Dealing In US Dollars
The Central Bank of Iraq is currently leading an initiative aimed at reforming the Iraqi banking sector. This requires licensed and supervised Iraqi financial institutions to undergo a thorough and rigorous reform process. Until this reform is complete, the banks listed below are prohibited from participating in the foreign exchange auction or dealing in US dollars, either directly or indirectly.
This list does not prevent international auditing firms from conducting audits of these financial institutions to support their full compliance with banking reform requirements.
Depositing Iraqi Oil Revenues In New York: Between Financial Stability And Economic Sovereignty
Researcher Shatha considers the mechanism of depositing Iraqi oil revenues in accounts at the US Federal Reserve in New York to be one of the most complex financial arrangements in modern Iraqi history. Since 2003, this mechanism has become more than just a technical procedure for protecting funds; it has transformed into a pivotal element affecting Iraq's economic sovereignty, financial stability, and political relations with international powers.
Legal And Economic Background
Following the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq, the UN Security Council passed Resolution 1483, which aimed to protect Iraq's oil revenues and state assets from creditor claims and lawsuits, given the massive debt accumulated since the previous regime. In this context, US Executive Order 13303 was issued, granting broad legal immunity to Iraqi oil revenues held in the United States. This order was later renewed and amended to reflect developments in the debt situation.
Economically, Iraq was in a very fragile situation. External debt, the collapse of financial institutions, and the lack of international confidence all made this mechanism a necessary tool for reintegrating Iraq into the global financial system and securing a regular flow of dollars needed for imports and financing the general budget.
Indirect Economic Benefits
This arrangement contributed to several economic gains. It boosted international confidence in the management of Iraqi oil revenues, helped stabilize the exchange rate, and reduced the risk of Iraqi funds being frozen abroad. It also provided a more attractive environment for international oil companies, which operate within a legal framework that limits their exposure to legal action related to oil activities in Iraq.
From a macro-financial perspective, this system served as a safety valve against external shocks, whether resulting from fluctuations in oil prices or from legal disputes with creditors, which helped the state maintain a minimum level of financial stability during extremely difficult periods.
The Cost Of Sovereignty And External Dependence
Conversely, these benefits cannot be separated from their sovereign cost. Oil constitutes approximately ninety percent of Iraq's state revenues, and depositing these revenues abroad has granted the United States significant influence over key sectors of the Iraqi economy.
This has become particularly evident at critical political junctures, when Iraqi sovereign decisions have been contingent upon access to or restrictions on these funds.
This situation reflects a classic economic dilemma facing rentier states emerging from conflict: the trade-off between short-term financial stability and building full economic sovereignty in the long term. The longer the reliance on external protection mechanisms persists, the more complicated the path to genuine financial independence becomes.
International Dimension And Overlapping Issues
The issue of oil revenues intersects with other legal and political matters, including maritime border disputes and the deposit of coordinates with the United Nations under the Law of the Sea Convention.
Iraq's successive deposits in 2011, 2021, and 2026 reflect gradual attempts to establish a legal framework that serves national interests, but they have simultaneously opened the door to objections from neighboring countries, confirming that legal stability is not achieved through unilateral deposits, but rather through consensus or international arbitration.
Future reading
From an analytical economic perspective, the mechanism for depositing oil revenues in New York can be argued to have played a historical role in protecting Iraq during an exceptional transitional period. However, its continuation in its current form raises fundamental questions about Iraq's ability to build independent financial institutions, diversify its sources of income, and reduce its dependence on external arrangements.
The real challenge lies not in the immediate abolition of this mechanism, but in developing a gradual strategy that moves Iraq from the logic of external protection to the logic of institutional sovereignty, where confidence stems from the strength of the national financial system, not from the position of bank accounts.
Conclusion
The deposit of Iraqi oil revenues in New York is not merely a technical or financial matter; it reflects a history of conflict, debt, and economic restructuring. While this arrangement has provided a degree of stability, it serves as a reminder that economic sovereignty is not measured solely by the size of revenues, but also by a state's ability to control them within an independent national legal and institutional framework.
Economic Studies Unit / North America Office, Links Center for Research and Strategic Studies
https://rawabetcenter.com/archives/180088
Government Advisor: Sovereign Guarantees Allow Investors To Borrow From Global Markets With An Iraqi Guarantee.
Economy | 23/02/2026 Mawazin News – Follow-up: The Prime Minister's Financial Advisor, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, confirmed on Monday that sovereign guarantees are a tool to support the financing of major investment projects. He also indicated that Iraq has allocated $1 billion in sovereign guarantees to support private sector projects.
Salih stated, according to the official news agency and as reported by Mawazin News, that "sovereign guarantees are one of the financial tools used by governments to support the financing of major investment projects.
They are an official commitment issued by the state, represented by the Ministry of Finance, to repay the debts of a project or company in the event that the borrower is unable to meet its obligations to the lending entity, whether it be international banks or other financing institutions."
He pointed out that "these guarantees aim to reassure financiers and encourage them to finance strategic projects, as the state affirms its responsibility to repay the loan in the event of investor default.
These guarantees are often directed towards vital projects that contribute to supporting the national economy, such as the construction of bridges, roads, railways, and power plants, in addition to factories that generate added value for the economy."
He added that "for the first time, Iraq has included sovereign guarantees of approximately one billion dollars in its three-year budget for the years 2023-2025. These guarantees, which are being implemented according to the law, are intended to support strategic private sector projects exclusively.
" He explained that "among the most prominent projects that can benefit from these guarantees are pharmaceutical factories, infrastructure projects related to major new cities, as well as projects related to the development road and its infrastructure, renewable energy projects, and digital transformation."
He continued, "These guarantees allow investors to borrow from global financial markets with the guarantee of the Iraqi government through an official sovereign document. In principle, a sovereign guarantee is similar to a promissory note, but it is issued by the government and included in the budget law. This gives lenders—whether local or foreign—greater confidence that the state will guarantee repayment in the event of the borrower's default." https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=273510
Chevron To Take Over Iraq’s West Qurna-2 After Lukoil Exit
2026-02-23 Shafaq News- Baghdad (Updated at 16:00) Iraq on Monday signed two preliminary memoranda of principles with US energy major Chevron covering the West Qurna-2, Al-Nasiriyah, and Balad oil fields.
According to caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani's office, the first agreement between Basra Oil Company and Chevron provides for the transfer of management of the West Qurna-2 field. A second agreement with Dhi Qar Oil Company and North Oil Company covers development of the Al-Nasiriyah field, four exploration blocks in Dhi Qar, and the Balad field in Saladin, and amends a previous arrangement by adding Al-Nasiriyah.
US Syria Envoy and Ambassador to Turkiye Tom Barrack later said the agreement reflects President Donald Trump’s vision of promoting “peace through shared prosperity” in the Middle East, describing Chevron’s involvement as a sign of confidence in Iraq’s stability and investment climate.
X Ambassador Tom Barrack @USAMBTurkiye
Today marks a significant milestone for the people of Iraq and for one of America’s leading energy companies, Chevron. This partnership reflects strong support for @POTUS vision of promoting peace through shared prosperity in the Middle East. Chevron’s commitment to stewarding a field that contributes nearly 12% of Iraq’s oil production demonstrates confidence in Iraq’s stability and potential. American investments in Iraq means new opportunities for growth - creating jobs, enhancing economic resilience, and advancing a future of mutual prosperity.
Basra Oil Company and Russia’s Lukoil previously signed a settlement to temporarily transfer the West Qurna-2 contract to Basra Oil Company and resolve outstanding financial dues. A separate framework agreement between Basra Oil Company, Lukoil, and Chevron allows the contract to shift temporarily before reassignment to Chevron following negotiations on a new contract, granting Chevron exclusive negotiation rights for one year.
Lukoil declared force majeure at West Qurna-2 in November 2025 after Western sanctions disrupted its operations, according to Reuters, leading Iraq to halt payments and cancel several crude shipments.
The field, discovered in 1973, produces between 400,000 and 480,000 barrels per day –nearly 10 percent of national output– and holds more than 13 billion barrels of recoverable reserves. Lukoil also moved to sell its overseas assets, including fields in Iraq, citing restrictions imposed on the company and its subsidiaries.
Read more: Russia’s Lukoil turmoil deepens risks for Iraq’s West Qurna-2 oilfield
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Chevron-to-take-over-Iraq-s-West-Qurna-2-after-Lukoil-exit
“Tidbits From TNT” Monday 2-23-2026
TNT:
Tishwash: Al-Moussawi: Iraq's financial reserves are constantly increasing and salaries are fully secured.
MP Jassim al-Moussawi confirmed on Monday that Iraq's financial reserves are witnessing a continuous increase, stressing that salaries are fully secured and there are no concerns about their payment in the coming period.
Al-Moussawi told the Information Agency that “Iraq’s financial situation is reassuring and the reserves at the Central Bank are constantly rising,” adding that “this reflects the state’s ability to fulfill its obligations towards employees and retirees.”
He added that "salaries are fully secured and cannot be affected by the current political or economic crises," noting that "the government is working to manage the financial file cautiously to ensure economic stability."
TNT:
Tishwash: Al-Moussawi: Iraq's financial reserves are constantly increasing and salaries are fully secured.
MP Jassim al-Moussawi confirmed on Monday that Iraq's financial reserves are witnessing a continuous increase, stressing that salaries are fully secured and there are no concerns about their payment in the coming period.
Al-Moussawi told the Information Agency that “Iraq’s financial situation is reassuring and the reserves at the Central Bank are constantly rising,” adding that “this reflects the state’s ability to fulfill its obligations towards employees and retirees.”
He added that "salaries are fully secured and cannot be affected by the current political or economic crises," noting that "the government is working to manage the financial file cautiously to ensure economic stability."
Al-Moussawi pointed out that "the increase in financial reserves gives Iraq strength in facing economic challenges and enhances confidence in the state's financial situation," emphasizing that "the next period will witness additional measures to boost revenues and control spending." link
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Tishwash: $65 Billion Investment to Transform Al-Tayeb Border City into an Economic City
The head of the National Investment Commission, Haider Makkiya, announced on Saturday a planned investment in the border city of Al-Tayeb to transform it into an economic city, noting that the investment is valued at $65 billion.
Makkiya told the Iraqi News Agency (INA): “Al-Tayeb is a multi-service economic city located on an area of more than 120,000 dunams, and the value of investments there exceeds $65 billion, of which $5 billion is allocated to infrastructure, roads, electricity, sewage, and other services.”
He pointed out that “the city has an abundance of natural resources that enable it to succeed, including water, hills, fuel, and other natural resources such as sand and gravel. There is a wealth of natural resources that allow for the establishment of a city with this specialized focus.” link
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Tishwash: Did Maliki obstruct the presidential candidate?
Arif al-Hamami, a former member of the State of Law Coalition, confirmed the soundness of the position of the Union and Democratic parties regarding Nouri al-Maliki's candidacy for the position of Prime Minister.
Al-Hamami told Al-Maalouma, “The issue of the Kurds not putting forward a candidate for the presidency is not related to the issue of Maliki’s candidacy for prime minister. If the Kurdish bloc has taken the issue of Maliki’s candidacy as a reason for not putting forward a candidate for the presidency, then it should clarify its position.”
He added that "the head of the Democratic Party, Masoud Barzani, is one of the first supporters of Maliki's candidacy for the position of Prime Minister, in addition to the fact that the other parties in the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan do not have any problem regarding the candidate for Prime Minister."
He explained that "certain biased parties have been spreading interpretations aimed at linking the delay in nominating a presidential candidate to al-Maliki's candidacy for prime minister." link
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Tishwash: Maliki refuses to meet Trump's envoy in Baghdad despite al-Sudani's attempt
Information obtained by Network 964 indicates that developments are escalating in the case of withdrawing Nouri al-Maliki’s nomination for the premiership, with a meeting between al-Maliki and Barak proving impossible.
Network 964 learned from political sources that Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani offered to mediate a meeting between prime ministerial candidate Nouri al-Maliki and Tom Barrack, the envoy of US President Donald Trump, who arrived in Baghdad this evening on a visit that was not previously announced, coinciding with the intensification of the prime ministership crisis, and the demands of several forces, including the Asaib Ahl al-Haq movement and the Hikma movement, for al-Maliki to withdraw after the American warning issued by Trump four days after al-Maliki’s nomination.
According to sources close to the State of Law Coalition, Maliki rejected the request made by Sudani to bring Maliki together with Trump's envoy. According to the coalition's spokesman, Aqeel al-Fatlawi, Maliki is waiting for "clarifications from the Iraqi ambassador in Washington, Nizar al-Khairallah," who is said to be carrying clarifications regarding the true American position on Maliki's candidacy and the circumstances surrounding Trump's tweet.
Maliki believes that it was driven by internal and external parties, and he is trying to avoid any direct contact with an American figure before he personally ascertains the nature of the American position beyond what is being circulated.
According to the sources, Maliki has been refusing for weeks to attend the framework meetings or discuss any other scenario that would call for his withdrawal. His atmosphere is repeating one call, as he personally expressed it in his only interview on February 3, when he said that he was nominated by the framework and that he would not withdraw, but rather the framework should withdraw his nomination if it wished.
The opposition forces are demanding that Maliki withdraw in order to avoid embarrassing all the leaders of the Shiite forces and forcing them to withdraw Maliki’s nomination in response to American pressure, while Maliki’s supporters respond that he is not prepared to bear this embarrassment, that he is ready to face all pressures, and that the framework should back down if it wants, without forcing Maliki to appear in a position of retreat. link
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Mot: “a buttload of something” - HUH?? Ur Kidding!!!!
The word “buttload,” often used colloquially to mean “a large amount,” actually has roots in old English wine measurement systems.
A “butt” was a real unit used to measure large quantities of liquid, especially wine or ale, during medieval times and into the early modern era.
One butt equals two hogsheads, and each hogshead typically holds 63 gallons (in the imperial system), making a butt exactly 126 gallons.
This unit was most commonly used in England and parts of Europe, especially in reference to shipping and storing wine, beer, and other liquids in wooden casks or barrels.
These massive barrels were known as butts (yes, that’s the actual term), and they often appeared in old taverns and ships’ cargo.
Today, the term survives mostly as slang or humor — “a buttload of something” — but it does in fact originate from a formal measurement that once held legal and commercial significance.