Seeds of Wisdom RV And Economics Updates Sunday Afternoon 6-30-24

Seeds of Wisdom RV And Economics Updates Sunday Afternoon 6-30-24

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

XRP News Today: Did the Binance Ruling Sink SEC Plans to Appeal?

XRP gained 0.28% on Saturday, June 29, closing the session at $0.4722.

SEC vs. crypto case-related news drove buyer demand for XRP.

On Sunday, investors should consider the possible influence of the latest court ruling on ongoing SEC vs. crypto cases.

Ripple Chief Legal Officer Stuart Alderoty shared the news of the court ruling, saying:

“For all the SEC has done to muddy the waters with its inconsistent legal theories, the Courts are seeing right through them. The Binance decision last night is long but absolutely worth a read.”

Read more:  FX Empire

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Ripple vs SEC Case As of June 30, 2024: Torres’s Verdict On XRP Stands

The legal landscape surrounding cryptocurrencies in the U.S., especially XRP, is gaining much-needed clarity. Two recent court decisions have significantly impacted the ongoing lawsuit between the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Ripple and broader industry regulations.

In a significant victory for the crypto industry, District Judge Amy Berman Jackson has bolstered the legal precedent set by Judge Analisa Torres in the SEC vs. Ripple case. Judge Jackson’s decision in the Binance vs. SEC case centered on the classification of Binance’s BNB token.

The SEC argues that secondary sales of BNB by users on crypto exchanges constituted unregistered securities offerings. However, Judge Jackson disagreed,  dismissing the SEC’s claim.

This ruling, shared on X by Fox Business journalist Eleanor Terrett, aligns with Judge Torres’ previous decision in the Ripple case.

Read more:  Times Tabloid 

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XRP Secondary Sales Deemed Non-Securities, Judge Torres’ Doctrine Stands

Judge Jackson’s ruling that XRP secondary sales aren’t securities boosts Ripple and sets a crucial precedent for the entire crypto industry.

Judge Jackson and Torres’ aligned decisions clarify that crypto assets traded by individuals on exchanges do not qualify as securities.

XRP price jumped over 1% after the ruling, aiming to regain $0.50, with increased interest from derivatives traders on OKX and BitMEX.

Judge Amy Berman Jackson has upheld Judge Torres’ doctrine, asserting that XRP’s secondary sales are not securities. This ruling came during the Binance vs. SEC case, where the SEC’s claim regarding secondary sales of Binance’s BNB was dismissed. To that end, the ruling by Judge Jackson, in concurrence with that of Judge Torres on the sale of XRP, sets an example in the crypto industry.

Read more:  Crypto News Land

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Pro-XRP Lawyer Sees Binance Ruling as Boost for XRP Non-Security Status

Attorney Bill Morgan says Binance case ruling boosts XRP’s non-security status.

Judge Jackson cited Judge Torres’ Ripple case decision when dismissing parts of the SEC’s case against Binance.

Morgan highlights that the ruling aligns with Judge Torres’ interpretation of the Howey test.

Read more:  Coin Edition

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XRP Lawsuit: Ripple Notches Massive Wins as CEO Brad Garlinghouse Clarifies XRP’s Security Status

Ripple Labs CEO Brad Garlinghouse has taken swipes at news outlets over inaccurate reporting of a court decision involving XRP and the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The fiasco began following a ruling by Judge Phyllis Hamilton of the US District Court for the Northern District of California, which threw out a class action suit against the issuers of the XRP token. While considered a massive win for Ripple Labs, the judge allowed an individual state law claim to proceed to trial based on alleged “misleading statements” made by Garlinghouse in 2017.

As XRP’s community celebrated the dismissal of securities law violation, CoinDesk and a raft of crypto news outlets reported that Hamilton’s decision could imply that XRP may be a security. The reporting triggered a stir in the ecosystem as XRP enthusiasts believe the question of the asset being a security was finalized in a 2023 decision by District Judge Analisa Torres in New York’s Southern District.

CoinDesk described the ruling as a “fly in the ointment,” but the report elicited fierce kickbacks from XRP’s community, with Garlinghouse leading the charge. According to Garlinghouse on X (formerly Twitter), Garlinghouse described the report as “embarrassing,” noting that Hamilton did not expressly term XRP as a security.

Read more:  ZyCrypto

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The Latest RV And Economics Updates from the Seeds of Wisdom Sunday AM 6-30-24

The Latest RV And Economics Updates from the Seeds of Wisdom Sunday AM 6-30-24

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Iraqi Dinar: IBBC ISSUES MAJOR NEW PAPER ON DE-DOLLARISATION OF IRAQ 

Professor Frank Gunter publishes a new paper commissioned as part of a series by IBBC's advisory council on the challenges of de-dollarisation for Iraq.

The Advisory Council members and IBBC members have actively contributed to the paper in the past 4 months. It will be presented online on the 18th June in a webinar and in person at the Spring Conference on 2nd July. The Arabic translation will be published soon.

Previous advisory papers include 2020, 'Iraq 2020: Country at the Crossroads', 'Corruption Worse Than ISIS: Causes and Cures Cures for Iraqi Corruption', 'Seaports and Airports of Iraq: Rules Versus Infrastructure' and 'Privatization of State-Owned Enterprises'.

Professor Gunter provides an analysis of the drivers of impact on the dinar exchange rate and examines how best to deal with the parallel market of dinars to dollars. He outlines the practical policy initiatives that should reduce the gap between the official and parallel exchange rates in the medium-term.

In particular he lauds the Government of Iraq on its commitment to tackle corruption and to modernise the banking system in one fell swoop but warns of the pressure on the dinar exchange rate as budgets are overstretched and the new banking recipients (state banks) receive the liquidity to enable the economy to perform.

He writes 'All three of these forces - the anti-corruption effort, the banking liberalization, and the lavish 2023-2025 budget - will create challenges for the management of the dinar exchange rate. One could argue that over the last two decades the Government of Iraq (GoI) had little control over its exchange rate; that exchange rate policy was determined by other sectors of the political economy in Iraq.

But even if this is true, the level of the exchange rate and changes in that level are believed by many Iraqis and foreigners as providing valuable insight into the quality of economic management in Iraq.

This importance is exemplified by the current efforts to de-dollarize the Iraqi economy while there is excess demand for dollars. This excess demand is shown by a parallel exchange rate of roughly 1500 dinars per dollar compared to the official exchange rate of 1310 dinars per dollar.

An important cause of this exchange rate gap is that the GoI, with the strong encouragement of the U.S. Federal Reserve, is attempting to reduce the use of the U.S. dollar in both Iraq's internal economy and its external transactions. Since 2003, the U.S. dollar has facilitated economic growth in Iraq by providing a widely accepted medium of exchange for purchases as well as a reliable store of value for savings. In the long run, whether de-dollarization will have a significant adverse impact on the Iraq economy will depend on how rapidly the GoI can increase both the efficiency of alternative mediums of exchange and the perceived security of alternative stores of value.'

© Newshounds News™

Source:  Iraq Business News

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To Boost Foreign Investments, Iraq signs Singapore Convention

From the UN Development Programme (UNDP). Any opinions expressed are those of the author(s), and do not necessarily reflect the views of Iraq Business News.

In a landmark move to attract foreign investors to Iraq, the country celebrated its signing of the United Nations Convention on International Settlement Agreements Resulting from Mediation ("Singapore Convention").

Under the patronage of H.E. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the National Investment Commission (NIC) of Iraq hosted a high-profile conference on mediation today [Wednesday 26th June, 2o24].

Creating an environment for global investors

Kick-starting the conference on behalf of H.E. the Prime Minister Mohammed Shia` Al-Sudani, the Advisor to the Prime Minister, Nasser Saleh Abdulnabi Al-Asadi reiterated the government's unwavering focus on foreign investment.

"We are steadfast in our progressive reforms, striving to transform Iraq into an inviting and secure investment destination. Iraq's accession to the Singapore Convention is a significant milestone, fortifying our efforts to build a robust business sector. We will persist in our endeavours to bolster investment, combat corruption, and generate employment opportunities for our youth," he said.

On April 17, 2024, Iraq took a significant step by signing the Singapore Convention, as the Convention eases enforcement of mediated settlement agreements, paving the way for enhanced international trade and commerce between countries.

"Iraq is ready to strengthen its collaboration with countries across the globe to foster investment as well as diversify and increase its trade, and the Convention is an important tool for us to operationalize this," ` said Dr. Hayder Makiya [Makiyya], Chairman of the National Investment Commission.

Iraq enters its new chapter

The conference, generously backed by the European Union, was joined by the European Union Ambassador to Iraq, Thomas Seiler.

"We are working hand in hand with the government and UNDP to support the government's ambition to make Iraq a secure and attractive destination for foreign investments, including from the 27 EU Member States. Effective mediation opens a new door for Iraq's international trade and business."

Through its Anti-Corruption and Commercial Dispute Resolution Initiatives funded by the European Union, UNDP has also been working with Iraqi universities to build the capacities of law students in commercial dispute resolution, including mediation.

"With the signing of the Singapore Convention, Iraq is committed to transforming the landscape of commercial cross-border dispute resolution which will significantly impact businesses engaged in international trade and commerce. We will continue supporting the Government in legislation and building the necessary institutional and human capacity to make mediation work." said Auke Lootsma, Resident Representative of UNDP.

The hope is that Iraq's signing of the Singapore Convention is the foundational beginning the country needs in order to attract and instill confidence in investors who wish to do business there - creating a climate that is conducive and safe for foreign investment.

About the Singapore Convention

The Singapore Convention is a multilateral treaty that provides a uniform and efficient framework for the enforcement of international settlement agreements resulting from mediation. It applies to agreements concluded by parties to resolve commercial disputes and facilitates international trade by enabling easy cross-border enforcement of these settlements. As of 11 June 2024, the Convention has 57 signatories and 14 parties. Iraq is the most recent signatory of the convention.

About UNDP's Commercial Dispute Resolution Initiative

To create an inclusive ecosystem for investors and boost foreign investment, UNDP has been strengthening commercial dispute resolution legislation and practices in Iraq. In addition to the support for mediation, the initiative includes technical support for drafting new law on arbitration in compliance with the UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration and international best practices. By facilitating consultations, workshops, and discussions with a broad range of stakeholders, UNDP aims to enhance capacity building and mainstream efficient commercial dispute resolution practices across the country.

© Newshounds News™

Source:  Iraq Business News

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DRAGON BOND: What it Means, How it Works

What Is a Dragon Bond?

A dragon bond is a long-term debt security issued by firms operating in Asian nations (excluding Japan), but denominated in foreign, stable currencies, such as the U.S. dollar (USD) or the Japanese yen (JPY).

Dragon bonds are Asian corporate bonds, ex-Japan, but denominated in a foreign currency.

Dragon bonds are denominated in currencies deemed to be more stable than the home currency to help mitigate the foreign exchange risk.

Dragon bonds, introduced by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in 1991, are analogous to eurobonds issued by European corporations in foreign currencies.

Understanding Dragon Bonds

A dragon bond is a fixed-income security denominated in currencies deemed more stable than the home currency; it is seen as more attractive to foreign investors as a result. The rationale for structuring them to be as appealing as possible to investors outside of Asia is because they mitigate the foreign exchange risk that can impact returns as currency values fluctuate. Dragon bonds are similar to eurobonds in that they are denominated in foreign currencies that are liquid and stable, but in the Asian context instead of Europe.

Dragon bonds were first introduced in 1991 by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Because of the foreign denomination, these can be more complex than other bonds because of international differences in taxation, regulatory compliance issues facing firms that issue them, plus limited liquidity in trading them in secondary markets.

Dragon Bonds and Currency Risk

Dragon bonds were created to broaden the market for fixed-income securities in Asia and develop more active Asian financial markets. Although Asian companies had issued bonds in local currencies, they appealed mostly to domestic investors limiting access to capital. Foreign investors were often reluctant to buy bonds dominated in currencies that could fluctuate rapidly. Currencies such as the U.S. dollar and Japanese yen were considered stable enough for accumulating assets.

For example, an Indonesian company might issue a 20-year bond denominated in Indonesian rupiah (IDR), with a coupon rate of 4-percent paid annually. If the U.S. dollar-Indonesian rupiah (USD/IDR) were 10,000 rupiahs per one U.S. dollar, then a 100-million rupiah bond would be the equivalent of $10,000. Each interest payment of 4 million rupiah would represent $400 at the time the bond is issued.

To an Indonesian investor, an investment of 100 million rupiah would pay 4 million rupiah per year with return of principal after 20 years. But for an investor buying such a bond with U.S. dollars, an unfavorable movement between the relative value of the two currencies could create extra risk.

If in the next year the exchange rate shifted from 10,000 IDR/1 USD to 11,000 IDR/1 USD, then the first coupon payment of 4 million rupiah would only be worth only about $364 instead of $400 as anticipated when the bond was first issued. The bond's 100-million rupiah face value would be worth about $9,091. And if the prevailing interest rate moves up, the value of the bond would be even lower.

However, a dragon bond denominated in USD, while still subject to interest rate risk, would not be subject to currency risk. The regional economy has changed significantly in the years since the introduction of dragon bonds in 1991, including the 1997 Asian financial crisis, and the growth of the Chinese economy. However, dragon bonds continue to help Asian markets attract more foreign investment.

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Investopedia

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“Tidbits From TNT” Sunday Morning 6-30-2024

TNT:

Tishwash:  In the presence of Al-Sudani...the launch of the central celebration of the National Day of the Iraqi Press

The activities of the central ceremony held by the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate on the occasion of the National Day of the Iraqi Press were launched at the Al-Rashid Hotel in Baghdad this morning, under the slogan (Iraqi journalists give freedom and inspiration to build)

In the presence of Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani, Acting Speaker of the House of Representatives Mohsen Al-Mandalawi, and the Head of the Journalists Syndicate.Iraqis, President of the Union of Arab Journalists, Muayyad Al-Lami, and a number of ministers, leaders, officials, ambassadors, and Arab and foreign delegations.  ink

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Tishwash:  Next month...the salaries of retired workers will increase

The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs will begin increasing the salaries of retired workers next July.

The Ministry's official spokesman, Najm Al-Uqabi, said in a statement received by Al-Maalouma, “The Ministry will begin implementing the increase in the salaries of retired workers starting in July, indicating that it will be in the amount of 150 thousand dinars distributed according to a retirement formula."

He pointed out that “the maximum limit for the worker’s pension will be 700 thousand dinars according to a retirement formula.” The one who receives the minimum amount of 350 thousand will have a salary of 500 thousand after adding the increase, and so on.”  link

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Tishwash:  Will the state adopt the provision of sovereign guarantees to finance private industrial projects?

The financial and economic advisor to the Prime Minister, Mazhar Muhammad Saleh, explained today, Friday, that the state has adopted a policy of providing sovereign guarantees for loans obtained by the private sector to finance an important package of private industrial projects.

Saleh told Al Furat News Agency: “There is a fundamental link in financing and implementation adopted by the government program and general policy in development, and its basics are summarized in the high implementation of the listed and ongoing government investment projects that faced procrastination and halting for many years.” 

He added, "The current investment program is based on completing the implementation of investment projects without interruption and in accordance with the financial resources allocated to them included in the Federal General Budget Law, while ensuring the sustainability of the funding sources necessary for the continuation of implementation, especially in the field of high-service infrastructure such as projects to develop electricity, drinking water, roads, sewers, etc., with priority that touches the lives of citizens."

 He pointed out: "Based on the above, the increase in revenues is one of the important financing levers in overcoming the problems that were facing government projects, which are called (slowed), and which have now entered into implementation and completion, in accordance with the approved policy (No more slowed projects)." 

 He expressed: "Therefore, there is a clear correlation between the capacity to implement urban projects in the country and the growth of public revenue sources (whether oil or non-oil) and harnessing their high financial flows to serve the requirements of economic development in our country in a way that maximizes the gross domestic product and provides high and sustainable employment sources at the same time.

The private sector assumes an important responsibility in implementation as it is the effective strategic partner in developing the Iraqi economy and advancing its infrastructure and various production activities."

 Saleh noted that "the state has adopted a policy of providing sovereign guarantees for loans obtained by the private sector to finance an important package of civil industrial projects, most notably projects to produce industrial and construction outputs related to the advancement of reconstruction, housing and infrastructure, with sovereign guarantees for the private sector amounting to 85% of the value of private activity, specifically industrial activity."    link

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Tishwash:  Economist reveals the main factors that influenced the implementation of the Maronites

 Former Director of the Financial Supervision Bureau, Salah Nouri, revealed today, Friday, the basic factors that influenced the implementation of the budget approval.

Nouri told Al Furat News Agency: “The main factors affecting the proper implementation of the Maronites are: 

_Approval of the budget early, at least in the third month of the fiscal year 

_Accuracy of financial allocations according to the priorities of the government program 

-The speed of cash financing for public spending units. This concerns the duties of the Ministries of Finance and Planning, the Council of Ministers, and the Representatives

As for the executive departments, Salah added, “Transparency, integrity and quality in the use and spending of funds according to the approved financial allocations.” 

He stated, “The efficiency of the executive human resources in the public spending units, based on the basics of implementing the aforementioned general budget, will greatly affect the achievement this year in terms of delays in approving the budget and delays in financing, in addition to the weakness of efficiency, transparency, integrity, and quality, especially in investment projects.”  link

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Mot: ... the Wisdom of ole ""Earl""

Mot:  Perfect It Was !!! Ideal Saturday

News, Rumors and Opinions Sunday AM 6-30-2024

KTFA:

BuckeyeTree:  We are at the end of June, and Sunday, June 30, is mid year, an opportune time. Almost daily there is a cascade of news in articles from Iraq and Eddie. IMO, June may end with great news, and, if not with what we seek, but maybe news that brings us yet closer to what we seek.

There have been times which looked good that have come and gone. More needed to get done, and we have waited. Now ATMs are out and official WTO full member status as of July 18. IMO, the window seems to be getting smaller and startup of those idle ATMs dispensing and working maybe closer!  IMO.

TBJohnston:  I agree, Buckeyetree, IMO we are CLOSER than EVER to this blessing finally happening, and tomorrow from Today's perspective looks very promising indeed!

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 Frank26:  "KTFA FAMILY... SUDANI GUARANTEED THE CONTRACTS FOR INVESTMENTS WITH A NEW EXCHANGE RATE, THEN HE TOLD THOSE AGAINST THE MONETARY REFORM.......... DON'T YOU DARE TOUCH MY INVESTORS BECAUSE I GUARANTEED THEIR MONEY, INVESTMENTS & CONTRACTS!!!"..........F26

What is the importance of Iraq joining international agreements?

6/26/2024  Baghdad

The Chairman of the National Investment Commission, Haider Makiya, stressed today, Wednesday, the importance of Iraq joining international agreements to enhance the investment sector, noting that Iraq has provided real guarantees to attract foreign investments.

Makiya said, in his speech, during the launch of the National Investment Commission conference in cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme, that “Iraq’s accession to the International Settlement Agreement resulting from international mediation and disputes that was signed in 2024, will contribute to achieving the goals of sustainable development and encouraging the increasing use of international mediation as a means.” Effective for settling cross-border disputes, for the purpose of maintaining trade and investment relations between the parties involved in the investment process.” 

He added, "This agreement has a pivotal dimension, foremost among which is finding an alternative method to litigation procedures before international arbitration bodies in disputes arising from investment, especially since Iraq joined in 2015 the International Center for the Settlement of Investment Disputes between States and Citizens of Other Countries, and this "It will give foreign investors the right to resort to the Washington Center."

He continued, "Also, the Republic of Iraq's accession to the New York Convention on the Recognition of Foreign Judgments of 1958 means completing all the necessary legislative environment to provide real guarantees and protection for foreign investors, and this will reflect positively on attracting foreign capital to Iraq, which aims at the construction and reconstruction process, and will raise Iraq's classification." .

He explained, "This agreement enhances the Iraqi investment reality, because it includes many international and qualitative strategic investment opportunities that impose contracts with specialized foreign companies for investment purposes. This requires Iraq to provide legal protection to those companies by resolving disputes in the event that they arise from investment contracts that It is imposed by state institutions on these companies, which prefer to resort to international arbitration to guarantee their rights, as stipulated in Article 27 of Investment Law No. 13.”

He pointed out, “Iraq’s accession to the International Mediation Agreement (Singapore Agreement) is necessary to attract foreign investments and achieve intended development, especially in light of Iraq’s transformation and dependence on a free market economy. This agreement will also create a legal framework that allows reliance on agreements.” The settlement resulting from mediation is easily implemented by all countries.”

Makiya stressed that “the legal department at the National Investment Authority and the investment authorities in the governorates will work to include international investment contracts by relying on mediation mechanisms in investment-related disputes before resorting to international arbitration, which will send a message of reassurance to foreign investors and foreign companies in order to proceed with resolving disputes.” related to these contracts, is easier than entering into international commercial arbitration procedures.”

 He pointed out, “The Republic of Iraq’s accession to the International Commercial Arbitration Agreement and the Singapore Mediation Agreement, in addition to concluding many agreements to encourage and protect mutual investments between Iraq and many international countries, made Iraq occupy fourth place in the classification of foreign direct investment.”

And the best emerging markets to invest in 2024.”

He stressed that "the noticeable improvement in the investment climate in Iraq comes as a result of government efforts made to strengthen the economic and investment sector, in attracting foreign investments," calling on foreign companies, foreign investors and businessmen to "visit Iraq to learn about the investment opportunities included in the investment map, and to attend the forum."

 "Iraq Investment Bank, which will be held next November, will launch more than 100 investment opportunities with integrated approvals, and review the benefits and guarantees that the investment law will provide to investors."   LINK

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Courtesy of Dinar Guru:  https://www.dinarguru.com/

Frank26   Sudani...I honestly feel he has put everybody ...in checkmate...He put Kurdistan and Barzani in checkmate when he showed them the new exchange rate IMO.  He put all the contractors in checkmate ...when they rewrote [contracts] with the new exchange rate IMO...Sudani has...all those involved in monetary reform in checkmate, even the United States of America, WTO, everybody is in checkmate...Look at all the excitement...pomp and circumstances pointing at Iraq from everybody... bowing to Iraq...You got the oil we want...The whole world knows Iraq are in control of them.

Bruce   [via WiserNow]  ...all of this information...is coming from Iraq directly, and we have some sources there ...was at the Baghdad International Airport and was able to use his credit/debit card. An Iraqi citizen was able to use his credit debit card to not only obtain lower denominations on the ATM, but also purchase airline tickets – in the ATM – which I didn't know you could do...He did have a rate, and he was...successfully able to transact business in Iraq - on the Iraqi dinar...He said, our time will come in a couple of days, a couple more days, but I think he's probably right...This should be a bang up weekend for us.

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BRICS No to World Bank: What Next?

Fasstepo:  6-29-2024

The World Bank, a cornerstone of global financial governance, has long been a subject of criticism.

As the institution faces growing scrutiny from the Global South and BRICS countries, several pressing questions arise: Why is there a persistent perception of Western dominance within the World Bank's decision-making processes?

How do the conditionalities attached to its loans impact the socio-economic landscapes of recipient countries? And why have alternatives like the New Development Bank emerged as significant players in global finance?

This video delves into these critical issues, exploring the structural imbalances, the controversial policy impositions, and the rigidity that critics argue undermine the World Bank's mission.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62PIbwJp5R0

Economist’s “News and Views” Saturday 6-29-2024

Project mBRIDGE Explained: BRICS, Multi Currency Reality Via New Blockchain Settlement System

Lena Petroa:  6-29-2024

Blockchain-based project mBRIDGE will become the foundation for a new, global alternative financial system. mBridge does not support settlements made in U.S. dollars.

Today, Warwick and Lena discussed how project mBRIDGE works, its structure, key stakeholders as well as the benefits that it will facilitate for the global majority.

 The discussion focuses on the process of de-dollarization, the BRICS+ bloc and the future of payment settlements.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRwzx7WnT7s

BRICS Shocked Dollar by Switching to Gold Reserve: What next?

Fastepo:  6-29-2024

In this video, we explore the recent global shift toward increasing gold reserves and examine how this trend impacts the relationship between gold prices and the US dollar.

We delve into the reasons behind various countries' moves to diversify their reserves away from the US dollar. Additionally, we analyse how gold prices typically respond to fluctuations in the US dollar.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JjwhZ8fWbcg

What Is Money?

Lynette Zang:  6-29-2024

Today we are talking about money, what it is, how it's created and the lie that has been sold to us...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbs6Dye17Do

The Latest Rv And Economics Updates from the Seeds of Wisdom Saturday Evening 6-29-24

The Latest Rv And Economics Updates from the Seeds of Wisdom Saturday Evening 6-29-24

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

Europe’s MiCA will take effect on Sunday, ushering in a new age of transparent crypto regulation

MiCA provides regulatory clarity to the entire digital assets market across the Eurozone, making Europe one of the first Western countries to implement a clear framework that crypto exchanges, digital assets companies, and stablecoin issuers can adopt to remain compliant.

The framework aims to protect European investors from the fraud and risks plaguing the crypto markets while fostering innovation, economic competitiveness, and the interest of the Eurozone.

MiCA pushes for innovation in its stipulations around stablecoins, which will allow Euro-denominated stablecoins to replace the dollar-denominated variant. Under the new rules, stablecoins will be treated as electronic money, subjecting issuers to the same levels of compliance as traditional banks and money transmitters, including a 1:1 redemption to the Euro.

While the framework pushes for bold reforms, it also emphasizes protecting the European investor by mandating digital service providers obtain licenses as either digital asset service providers (DASP), virtual asset service providers (VASP), or crypto asset service providers (CASP).

Global stablecoins are not allowed under MiCA, and stablecoins pegged to other cryptocurrencies must primarily comply with European e-money licensing requirements. This would entail abiding by prudential, financial-crime compliance, and other rules.

To boost job and economic growth, licensed entities must maintain a local presence within the EU, which will serve as a base for their European operations.

While MiCA is a step forward, it is not without fault. Some of its faults include the cost of compliance, which could be burdensome on smaller crypto exchanges and service providers, vague (virtually non-existent) stipulations around decentralised finance, and a lack of flexibility in some stipulations, like those around stablecoins.

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Coin Journal

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Less Than 1 in 10 Firms Are Fully Prepared for MiCA With 25% Having Made No Preparations

The first stage of the European Union‘s Markets in Crypto Assets Regulation (MiCA) will come into play on 30 June. However, a new report by Acuiti, the management intelligence platform, and conducted by Eventus, the trade surveillance software provider, has found that a move to establish market surveillance systems is underway as firms find themselves underprepared.

 
MiCA represents one of the first comprehensive regulatory frameworks for crypto trading to be developed in a major financial jurisdiction, and its adoption will increase requirements for market participants in a range of areas.

The study, The Impact of MiCA on Crypto Market Surveillance: Insights and Challenges, was based on a survey and series of interviews with senior executives at 68 firms engaged in crypto trade across the buy-side, sell-side and exchanges. It found that, of the firms that were in scope for MiCA, just nine per cent were fully prepared, and a quarter of firms had not begun preparations.

With MiCA coming into full effect at the end of the year, it is important that firms identify whether they are in scope now and begin preparations to comply.

In terms of market surveillance, the MiCA regulation is based upon requirements set out in the EU’s Market Abuse Regulation (MAR). For many firms, particularly crypto-native firms coming into scope for the first time, there will be a significant operational lift to put in place the systems required to be compliant. This study found that there were still high levels of firms that were not sure if they were in scope.

“For firms that are not already operating under MIFID II, MiCA will present a significant operational lift to become compliant, and it is no surprise that we found that firms were looking to third-party vendors to assist them in their preparations,” says Ross Lancaster headof research at Acuiti.

“There is a relative lack of awareness among some areas in the market as to who is in scope, which will need to be addressed if firms are going to have time to get ready for compliance.”

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  The FinTech Times    

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US Dollar to Get Re-Priced from ‘Widely Overvalued’ Levels, Massive Impact on Gold, Bitcoin Targets | Youtube

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IBKR’s ForecastEx secures CFTC approval to launch prediction market

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has approved ForecastEx LLC’s application to operate a contract market and derivative clearing organization.

ForecastEx, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Interactive Brokers, starts operations on Monday, July 8, 2024.

Interactive Brokers clients from eligible countries will have immediate access, the brokerage firm announced as it is the first Futures Commission Merchant to join as an exchange member.

“Markets are the most direct ways of expressing our unbiased expectations”

After its initial launch, ForecastEx will expand internationally and cover additional local and controversial global issues, the firm stated.

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Finance Feeds    

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UK is 3 months away from transition away from US dollar LIBOR

The Financial Conduct Authority has reminded market participants of the expected cessation of the remaining synthetic US dollar LIBOR settings at the end of September 2024.

“We have no intention to use our powers to compel IBA to continue to publish the settings beyond this date”, the regulator stated. “Market participants with outstanding US dollar LIBOR exposures must make sure they are prepared for these remaining synthetic US dollar LIBOR settings to cease by the expected deadline.”

The FCA further warned that parties to contracts still referencing US dollar LIBOR should be taking steps to transition to appropriate, robust reference rates, renegotiating with counterparties where necessary.

The FCA and BoE have been taking steps to promote the switch from LIBOR to SONIA. Throughout the last few years, they actively provided guidance to lenders, borrowers, and investors who are amending their documentation to reference SONIA.

Nevertheless, the transition from US dollar LIBOR remains of critical importance globally, including in the UK where many firms are active in US dollar interest rate markets.

LIBOR, which underpins more than $300 trillion in derivatives and other instruments, is set to be replaced worldwide with the Bank of England’s Sonia rate for sterling-denominated swaps, loans, and futures.

Instead of interbank offered rates, the FCA notes that overnight SONIA is now fully embedded across FX markets. Successful CCP conversion processes saw some of the largest single day amendments to financial contracts, with in excess of £13 trillion LIBOR-referencing contracts converted to SONIA.

This shift is expected to boost liquidity in these products, which aided relevant providers in achieving the Working Group’s key milestone of ceasing LIBOR-linked derivatives.

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Finance Feeds    

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Digital Assets
Analysis: How the Fed’s rate policy spurred crypto adoption in Africa

Increases in U.S. interest rates are historically considered to generate adverse spillovers to emerging market economies (EMEs), including those in Africa. However, whether these rate hikes are detrimental depends on their underlying causes.

Higher rates resulting from stronger U.S. growth generate only modest spillovers to African financial markets. In contrast, rate hikes stemming from hawkish Federal Reserve policy or inflationary pressures are much more disruptive, often leading to capital outflows and currency depreciation.

African currencies have struggled against the U.S. dollar over the last two years, and they are unlikely to see recoveries soon as long as the Federal Reserve continues to delay cutting interest rates.  This sustained pressure has driven many Africans to seek refuge in cryptocurrencies, which are perceived as less susceptible to the Fed’s monetary policy changes.

According to Chainalysis, Africa received $117.1 billion in on-chain crypto transactions between July 2022 and June 2023. Although it has consistently been one of the smallest cryptocurrency markets, a closer analysis reveals that crypto has penetrated key markets and become an important part of many residents’ day-to-day lives. The Fed’s higher interest rates have indirectly contributed to this trend by exacerbating economic conditions in these countries, prompting people to seek financial alternatives.

That said, experts on the ground also observed that crypto fans in Africa have shifted their focus from Bitcoin to stablecoins due to their lower price volatility compared to the original cryptocurrency.

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Finance Feeds    

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Trade finance to play major role in $30 trillion tokenised assets market

Demand for tokenised real-world assets could reach $30.1 trillion by 2034, with trade finance assets making up a significant part of the market, predicts a paper from Standard Chartered and Synpulse.

Currently, the tokenised assets sector is mainly made up of traditional assets like US treasuries and money market funds. However, the supply side is still in its infancy, with the total value of tokenised assets (excluding stablecoins) standing at just $5

However, the paper argues that growing industry digitisation and the specific features of real-world trade finance assets, make it an ideal category to originate tokens.

Currently, trade finance assets are underinvested due to lack of familiarity, pricing inconsistency and operational intensity. Tokenisation has the potential to address these challenges, whilst also reducing information asymmetry and offering transparency to investors.

By 2034, trade finance assets could become one of the top three tokenised assets globally, at 16% of the $30.1 trillion total, predict the authors.

Kai Fehr, global head, trade, Standard Chartered, says: "We see the next three years as a critical junction for tokenisation, with trade finance assets coming to the fore as a new asset class.

"To unlock this trillion-dollar opportunity, industry-wide collaboration among all stakeholders, from investors and financial institutions to governments and regulators is critical. Banks need to increasingly take on the role of bridging the existing traditional financial markets with a newer and more open token-enabled market infrastructure."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  FinExtra    

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Techcombank launches AI-powered banking

Techcombank launched AI-powered banking at the Techcombank Keynote event in Hanoi on Friday, aiming to become a leading bank in Vietnam with innovative digital solutions.
Techcombank's first Keynote event, titled "Pioneering Innovation: Reaching for New Heights," showcased the bank's most innovative new solutions for individual, business, and corporate customers and highlighted how it is harnessing the power of data and AI to create meaningful experiences for customers and deliver unprecedented growth for Techcombank.

Kicking off the event, CEO Jens Lottner highlighted the investment made by Techcombank over the first three years of its 2021–2025 transformation plan to create a number of first-in-the-market innovations.

Techcombank has applied data analysis and AI across the bank, and most major systems have been transitioned to the cloud.

This puts it around three years ahead of its competitors in Vietnam and is enabling the bank to harness the power of data and AI in order to drive unique business outcomes.

Lottner said that this year the bank has accelerated its drive towards leveraging digital platforms, new data, and AI capabilities, creating more hyper-personalized experiences for customers.

"We are now redefining banking in Vietnam with our product innovations and personalized experiences," said Lottner.

Its new loyalty ecosystem offers rewards and experiences tailored to individual customers’s preferences and lifestyles.

It is already one of the largest and most diverse loyalty programs in the Vietnamese banking industry, encompassing over 19,000 points of sale with over 300 brands where customers can earn reward points.

"With the strong support of our partners and shareholders, we have built one of the best banking platforms in Asia. We are now ready to go to the next level, to compete and win over customers to realize our vision, Change Banking, Change Lives," Abraham said.

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Vietnam Express    

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China-Serbia FTA to take effect on July 1, further facilitates bilateral exchanges

The free trade agreement (FTA) between China and Serbia will officially take effect on July 1, 2024, as the two sides will gradually eliminate tariffs on 90 percent of products in the tariff lines. Tariffs for more than 60 percent of products will be suspended immediately on the same day, China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) said on Friday in a statement.

The FTA was signed on October 17, 2023, and both countries have completed the respective approval procedures.

The final proportion of zero-tariff imports on both sides will reach about 95 percent, covering major trade commodities. The import tariffs on the Serbian side will be gradually reduced to zero from the current 5 to 20 percent for Chinese products such as automobiles, photovoltaic modules, lithium batteries, telecommunication equipment, machinery and equipment, refractory materials and some agricultural and aquatic products, according to a separate MOFOCM statement on Friday, citing an official.

China will also reduce the 5-20 percent tariffs to zero for major Serbian imports, including generators, electric motors, tires, beef, wine, nuts and other products.

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Global Times    

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Newshound's Podcast June 28, 2024 on XRP and Ripple

MP3 HERE

~~~~~~~~~

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Thank you Dinar Recaps

“Tidbits From TNT” Saturday 6-29-2024

TNT:

Tishwash:  Document stating no taxes on Dinar and the report for Vietnam

This is the summary from section 6

FOREIGN EXCHANGE AND REMITTANCES

Foreign Exchange

The currency of Iraq is the dinar (IQD).  The Central Bank of Iraq devalued the IQD, by 22.7 percent at the end of Dec 2020, to avoid a liquidity crisis. This came as part of the reform plan put in place by the Prime Minister after the country was simultaneously impacted by COVID -19 and the significant drop in oil prices at that time.

Iraqi authorities confirm that in practice, there are no restrictions on current and capital transactions involving currency exchange if valid documentation supports underlying transactions.  The Investment Law allows investors to repatriate capital brought into Iraq, along with proceeds.  Funds can be associated with any form of investment and freely converted into any world currency.  The Investment Law also allows investors to maintain accounts at banks licensed to operate in Iraq and transfer capital inside or outside of the country.

The GOI’s monetary policy since 2003 has focused on ensuring price stability primarily by maintaining a de facto peg between the IQD and the U.S. dollar, while seeking exchange rate predictability by supplying U.S. dollars to the Iraqi market.  In December 2020, the GOI announced that it would officially devalue the dinar’s peg to the U.S. dollar by 22 percent.  Banks may engage in spot transactions in any currency; however, they are not allowed to engage in forward transactions in Iraqi dinars for speculative purposes.  There are no taxes or subsidies on purchases or sales of foreign exchange.

the whole report is here     https://www.state.gov/reports/2022-investment-climate-statements/iraq/

Here is the link for the same report but for Vietnam  

I HAVE NOT READ IT AND I DON'T INTEND to

https://www.state.gov/reports/2023-investment-climate-statements/vietnam/

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BabysMom:  Vietnam Tax Document

Vietnam

2. Bilateral Investment Agreements and Taxation Treaties

Vietnam maintains trade relations with 200 countries, and has 65 bilateral investment treaties (BITs) and 26 treaties with investment provisions. It is a party to five free trade agreements (FTAs) with ASEAN, Chile, the Eurasian Customs Union, Japan, and South Korea. As a member of ASEAN, Vietnam also is party to ASEAN FTAs with Australia, New Zealand, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and Hong Kong.

Vietnam finalized an FTA with the European Union in 2015, but the agreement has neither been signed nor ratified. In addition, Vietnam is a member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which was signed on March 8, 2018. Vietnam is a participant in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) negotiations, which include the 10 ASEAN countries and Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and New Zealand, and it is negotiating FTAs with other countries, including Israel.

A full list of signed agreements to which Vietnam is a party is on the UNCTAD website: http://investmentpolicyhub.unctad.org/IIA/CountryBits/229#iiaInnerMenu .

Vietnam has signed double taxation avoidance agreements with 77 countries, listed at http://taxsummaries.pwc.com/ID/Vietnam-Individual-Foreign-tax-relief-and-tax-treaties . The United States and Vietnam concluded and signed a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTA) in 2016, but the agreement is still awaiting ratification by the U.S. Congress.

There are no systematic tax disputes between the government and foreign investors. However, an increasing number of U.S. companies disputed tax audits resulting in retroactive tax assessments. These cases may stem from Vietnam’s chronic budget deficits and the need to find sources to fill the revenue gap left from falling tariffs and falling oil revenues. These retroactive tax cases against U.S. companies can obscure the true risks of operating in Vietnam and give some U.S. investors pause when deciding whether to expand operations.

In February 2017, the government released Decree 20/2017/ND-CP, effective since May 2017, which introduced many new transfer-pricing reporting and documentation requirements, as well as new guidance on the tax deductibility of service and interest expenses.

6. Financial Sector

Capital Markets and Portfolio Investment

Although Vietnam welcomes foreign portfolio investment, Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) still classifies Vietnam as a Frontier Market, which precludes some of the world’s biggest asset managers from investing in its stock markets. Vietnam is working to meet the criteria necessary to attain “emerging market” status and attract greater foreign capital inflows.

While the government has acknowledged the need to strengthen both the capital and debt markets, there has been no substantial progress, leaving the banking sector as the primary capital source for Vietnamese companies. Challenges to raising capital domestically include insufficient transparency in Vietnam’s financial markets and non-compliance with internationally accepted accounting standards.

Vietnam has two stock exchanges, which are the HCMC Stock Exchange (HOSE) and the Hanoi Stock Exchange (HNX). The State Securities Commission (SSC) regulates both. As of February 2018, HOSE and HNX had total market capitalization of approximately USD 220 billion, surpassing 110 percent of Vietnam’s GDP. Government bonds account for one fifth of the total market capitalization traded on the HNX. A trading floor for unlisted public companies (UPCOM) operates at the Hanoi Securities Center, where many equitized SOEs first list their shares (due to lower transparency requirements) before moving to HOSE or HNX. Roughly 90 percent of the combined market capitalization is in HOSE.

Vietnam complies with International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article VIII. The government notified  the IMF that it accepted the obligations of Article VIII, Sections 2, 3, and 4, effective November 8, 2005.

Banks charge relatively high interest rates for new loans because they must continue to service existing non-performing loans (NPLs). Domestic companies, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), often have difficulty accessing credit. Foreign investors are generally able to obtain local financing.

Money and Banking System

The State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) estimates that around 70-80 percent of the total population are underbanked or do not have bank accounts, due to an inherent distrust of the banking sector, the engrained habit of holding assets in cash, foreign currency, and gold, and the limited use of financial technology tools. Since recovering from the 2008 global downturn, Vietnam’s banking sector has been stable. However, despite various banking reforms, Vietnam’s banking sector continues to be concentrated at the top and fragmented at the bottom.

By the end of 2017, state-owned or majority state-owned banks accounted for over 46 percent of total assets, and over 40 percent of equity capital in the banking sector. The estimated total assets in the banking system is USD 454.6 billion. In addition, 31 private joint-stock commercial (private) banks, all smaller than the state-owned banks, are gradually gaining market share. There were also nine foreign-owned banks (HSBC, Standards Chartered, Shinhan, Hong Leong, Woori Bank, Public Bank, CIMB Bank, ANZ and United Overseas Bank), 49 branches of foreign banks, 47 representatives of foreign banks, and two joint-venture banks (Vietnam-Russia Bank and Indovina Bank).

Vietnam has made some progress on reducing its NPLs, but most domestic banks remain under-capitalized with high NPL levels that continue to drag on economic growth. Accurate NPL data is not available and the central bank frequently underreports the level of NPLs. Other issues in the banking sector include state-directed lending by state-owned commercial banks, cross-ownership, related-party lending under non-commercial criteria, and preferential loans to SOEs that crowd out credit to SMEs. By law, banks must maintain a minimum chartered capital of VND 3 trillion (roughly USD 134 million).

Currently, the ceiling for total foreign ownership in a Vietnamese bank remains at 30 percent, with a 5 percent limit for non-strategic individual investors, a 15 percent limit for non-strategic institutional investors, and a 20 percent limit for strategic institutional partners. In early 2017, the Prime Minister promised to increase the limits of foreign ownership in local banks, though he did not specify the new ceiling. Prudential measures and regulations apply the same to domestic and foreign banks.

We are unaware of any lost correspondent-banking relationships in the past three years. However, after the SBV took over three failing banks (Ocean Bank, Construction Bank, and Global Petro Commercial Bank (GP Bank)), and placed Dong A Bank under special supervision in 2015, correspondent-banking relationships with those banks may have been limited.

Vietnam has begun studying blockchain technologies in financial services and SBV established a steering committee on financial technology (fintech) in March 2017.

Foreign Exchange and Remittances

Foreign Exchange Policies

There are no restrictions on foreign investors converting and repatriating earnings or investment capital from Vietnam. However, funds associated with any form of investment cannot be freely converted into any world currency.

The SBV has a mechanism to determine the interbank reference exchange rate. In order to provide flexibility in responding to exchange rate volatility, the SBV now announces the interbank reference exchange rate daily. The rate is determined based on the previous day’s average interbank exchange rates, taking into account movements in the currencies of Vietnam’s major trading and investment partners.

Remittance Policies

Vietnam allows foreign businesses to remit profits, capital contributions, and other legal investment activity revenues in hard currency. There are no time constraints on remittances or limitations on outflow remittances of profits or revenue. However, outward foreign currency transactions require certain supporting documents (such as audited financial statements, import/foreign-service procurement contracts and proof of tax obligation fulfillment, and approval of the SBV on loan contracts etc.).

Sovereign Wealth Funds

The State Capital Investment Corporation (SCIC) technically qualifies as a sovereign wealth fund (SWF), as its mandate is to invest dividends and proceeds from privatization in assets outside of the state-owned sector. It was estimated at USD 2.8 billion in June 2016 (an updated estimate is not available.) However, the SCIC does not manage or invest balance-of-payment surpluses, official foreign currency operations, government transfer payments, fiscal surpluses, or surpluses from resource exports. SCIC’s primary mandate is to manage the non-privatized portion of SOEs. By July 2017, the SCIC managed a portfolio of 141 equitized SOEs, including 134 joint-stock companies, and three limited companies in various sectors. The SCIC invests 100 percent of its portfolio in Vietnam, and the SCIC’s investment of dividends and divestment proceeds does not appear to have any ramifications for U.S. investors. The SCIC budget is reasonably transparent, audited, and can be found at http://www.scic.vn/ .

In addition, the SCIC is working toward membership in the IMF-hosted International Working Group on SWFs.

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Tishwash:  A parliamentary committee reveals the reasons for obstructing the legislation of the oil and gas law

Today, Saturday, member of the Oil, Gas and Natural Resources Committee, Kazem Al-Touki, revealed the reasons for obstructing the legislation of the oil and gas law, while stressing the difficulty of legislating the law.

Al-Touki told Al-Maalouma Agency, “The differences have negatively affected the legislation of the oil and gas law, which faces many political and technical obstacles.”

He added, “Legislating the oil and gas law is not an easy matter, especially after the decisions of the Federal Supreme Court to stop the region’s export of oil through the Turkish Ceyhan port.” 

He pointed out that "the legislation of the oil and gas law needs more dialogue and negotiation between Baghdad and Erbil, especially since the legislation of this law was part of the political agreement prior to the formation of the government.  link

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Mot: . Great Job -- aaaahhhh –

Mot: . Two Things !!!! ~~~~~

News, Rumors and Opinions Saturday AM 6-29-2024

Note: All intel should be considered as "Rumors" until we receive official announcements ...and “Rates and Dates” could change anytime until we get to the banks/redemption centers.

RV Excerpts from the Restored Republic via a GCR: Update as of Sat. 29 June 2024

Compiled Sat 29 June 2024 12:01 am EST by Judy Byington

Global Currency Reset:  (Rumors Opinions )

Fri. 28 June 2024 Wolverine: “I want you all to get ready as Iraq is going to have a massive celebration this Sunday 30 June. The RV is nearly here and it’s going to be very emotional for all of us. I’ve been told that all funds have been deposited to start payments for Nesara/Gesara. I’m also hearing good news coming from Reno as well

Thurs. 27 June 2024 Bruce: On Thurs. 27 June a source at the Iraqi Airport in Baghdad used his Iraqi debit card with the new Iraqi Dinar rate on it to access funds. My sources say Tier 4b notification could come the last three days of this month – Fri, Sat or Sun. 28, 29, 30 June. Iraq was planning on celebrating their new Iraqi Dinar Rate on Sun. 30 June

Thurs. 27 June 2024 MarkZ: The new Iraqi Dinar Rate was fully expected in the month of June. Banking contacts say it will happen sometime between July 4-8, while outsiders were saying July 12-13.

Wed. 26 June 2024Banker: : Wolverine confirmed my Intel that the exchange process will begin in China move eastward to Europe and then to the US. As most know our Saturday is Iraq’s Sunday. The new Budget was included in the latest Gazette but the rate was not given. I now have it from three different sources that Iraq is planning a nationwide celebration for this Sunday 30 June. There are many foreign dignitaries in country for the party and the rate will be announced and the new ATM’s with the new currency will be opened. So this is my hoped for announcement for tomorrow Sat. 29 June. GOD Bless.

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Fri. 28 June 2024 TNT Call:

Iraq is ready to party on Sunday 30 June.

The lower denomination Dinars are in the ATMs.

Banks have been notified that the Dinar is exchangeable once they get the go, which they are expecting between this evening Fri. 28 June and Sunday morning 30 June.

Sudani told the Iraqi people that there is going to be a change in the banks.

Tier 2 & 3 banks in the US have also now been advised to “get ready.”

Banks have been doing practice runs for the last two days, and the biggest issues that keep occurring, were with people not having their currency separated and organized.

The budget is expected to be published in the Gazette on Sat. 29 June.

Bankers from Indiana, Chicago, NY, NJ, FL and DC texted Tony during the call and advised that they are ready, and that some of them are staying late tonight, and that some are starting early tomorrow morning.

Tony believes that our window is still any time after 4:00pm Eastern today, through Sunday morning.

Ray believes that it’s coming tonight Fri. 28 June, so that’s what we’re all going to pray for.

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Global Financial Crisis:

June 2024: Saudi Arabia will not be renewing the 50-year petrodollar agreement with the United States. Instead, they will be selling oil in multiple currencies, including the Chinese RMB, Euros, Yen, and Yuan. This should be treated as a black swan event, but you wouldn’t know it because the U.S. government is more focused on investigating tire tracks over a street intersection. Remember, the revolution will not be televised.

NEW YORK, June 27 (Reuters) – Ten large banks including Bank of America (BAC.N), Goldman Sachs (GS.N), and JPMorgan Chase (JPM.N), will pay $46 million to settle a long-running antitrust lawsuit accusing them of conspiring to rig the now $465.9 trillion market, for interest rate swaps. Other settling banks include Barclays (BARC.L), BNP Paribas (BNPP.PA), Citigroup (C.N), Deutsche Bank (DBKGn.DE), Morgan Stanley (MS.N), NatWest (NWG.L), and UBS (UBSG.S) https://www.reuters.com/legal/ten-big-banks-settle-us-interest-rate-swaps-rigging-litigation-2024-06-27/

Read full post here:  https://dinarchronicles.com/2024/06/29/restored-republic-via-a-gcr-update-as-of-june-29-2024/

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Courtesy of Dinar Guru:  https://www.dinarguru.com/

Mnt Goat   ...it is nearing the end of June already...Recently we witnessed a surge of news from many of the prominent global entities including the UN, World Bank, IMF and the EU. All of them praising Iraq and giving “kudos” to them for the hard work and achievements. Today is not different as the articles once again tell the RV spigot is wide open to the RV.

Militia Man  This isn't the old days. It's a progress of education that they are teaching us and they're teaching their people.  They're telling the world what they're doing. The 'big money', they know how this is rolling and they can see this...These are the things...we should feel good about because this is showing us big things are happening.

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Over 50 Nations Ditching The Dollar, De-Dollarization In Full Effect

Atlantis Report:  6-28-2024

Over 50 Nations Are Ditching The Dollar. Dedollarization Is In Full Effect, and a New Financial System Is Coming.

For many years, the U.S. dollar has been the dominant reserve currency worldwide, playing a major role in international trade, finance, and investment. However, an increasing number of countries, including major economies like China and Russia, are starting to move away from the dollar.

This shift, influenced by various geopolitical and economic factors, suggests a restructuring of the international financial system.

This challenges the U.S. dollar's long-standing dominance and could lead to the establishment of a new financial order.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOT2ScMBS6I

The Latest RV and Economics Updates from the Seeds of Wisdom Team Friday Evening 6-28-24

The Latest RV and Economics Updates from the Seeds of Wisdom Team Friday Evening 6-28-24

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

Supreme Court Ruling Boosts Ripple (XRP) in SEC Lawsuit

The U.S. Supreme Court has abolished the Chevron deference, altering the way federal regulations will be interpreted.

This landmark decision could influence the ongoing lawsuits faced by Ripple and Coinbase with the SEC.

Without Chevron’s deference, Ripple might gain ground by arguing that XRP  tokens are not securities.

The Supreme Court’s dismantling of the Chevron deference marks a critical legal shift, potentially altering the landscape for Ripple and Coinbase in their battles with the SEC over digital asset classifications.

The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to dismantle the Chevron deference doctrine represents a seismic shift in how federal regulations are interpreted. Previously, courts often deferred to federal agencies on interpreting ambiguous statutory language, leaning on their expertise.

This landmark ruling empowers judges to now independently interpret regulations, reshaping the legal landscape across various sectors including environmental protection, consumer safety, and financial regulation.

The removal of Chevron deference significantly curtails the interpretative authority traditionally wielded by regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Agencies will face greater challenges in implementing and enforcing existing regulations as federal judges take on a more active role in interpreting the law. This shift could lead to an uptick in litigation, with companies and individuals seeking judicial clarification in the absence of agency expertise.

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Coinotag

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ISO 4217
Currency codes
People around the world rely on almost 300 different currencies to do business with each other, which is why it pays to use ISO 4217.

This standard establishes internationally recognized codes for the representation of currencies that enable clarity and reduce errors. Currencies are represented both numerically and alphabetically, using either three digits or three letters. Some of the alphabetic codes for major currencies are familiar, such as “EUR” for Euros. Fortunately, ISO 4217 covers everything from Afghanis to Zambian Kwacha as well.

Maintaining ISO 4217
Periodically, amendments must be made to ISO 4217:2015 and these are managed by the Secretariat of the Maintenance Agency, in this case the SIX Financial Information AG on behalf of the Swiss Association for Standardization, SNV.

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  ISO Org   

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"National Australia Bank kills off stablecoin project

One of the four largest banks in Australia, National Australia Bank (NAB) (NASDAQ: NAUBF), has pulled the plug on its AUDN stablecoin.

Citing a lack of customer demand, NAB canceled the project, causing the team to switch to independent Australian dollar stablecoin Ubiquity. The latter will join ANZ Bank and Novatti (NASDAQ: NTTIFI) as the race continues to create the AUD version of USDC.

NAB started work on the AUDN stablecoin in 2022 and thought clients would use it to settle cross-border transactions, among other uses.

Like many other countries, Australia is exploring the concept of an Australian Dollar CBDC. It has been working with the Digital Finance Cooperative Research Centre (DFCRC) to test the idea.

While Australia has yet to announce concrete plans to launch the eAUD, CBDCs are moving ahead full steam elsewhere, and national digital currencies will pose serious competition to private stablecoins.

Adding to the woes of private stablecoin issuers is the ever-worsening reputation of Tether, the largest one by market cap. Its ties to terrorism and trafficking and continued refusal to prove it is backed by real U.S. dollars continue to harm the image of private stablecoins generally. The Brookings Institute recently published a paper showing that the U.S. government views private stablecoins as a national security threat, and it’s a safe bet that other governments feel the same.

Why would anyone use bank-issued coins running on expensive blockchains like Ethereum when national digital currencies can be sent anywhere in the world in seconds through systems similar to mBridge? A betting man might wager that the National Australia Bank has asked itself the same question, and that’s why it has thrown in the towel on AUDN."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Currency Insider 

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"Crypto market faces $860M token unlocks in July

Around 40 crypto projects are set for token unlocks next month, with a combined value of roughly $860 million hitting the market. According to data from Token Unlocks, Xai, AltLayer, Arbitrum, and Aptos lead the charge with the largest token releases.

Token unlocks refer to the release of a chunk of tokens that were previously restricted from trading. Investors often fear price declines caused by selling pressure when a large amount of tokens enter the market.

However, token unlocks aren’t inherently bad. Small unlocks may have minimal impact. An annual report from Token Unlocks shows that tokens rise 34% on average after being unlocked for private investors.

Overall, the exact impact of token unlocks is often unpredictable. When considering a crypto investment, it’s important to be aware of upcoming token unlocks and their potential impact on the price."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Crypto Briefing

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"Bolivia Revokes Ban on Financial Entities’ Use of Crypto

Bolivia’s central bank issued a resolution to allow financial institutions to use cryptocurrencies, banned since 2020, bank chief Edwin Rojas said in a press conference.

Rojas said Bolivian citizens trade around $10m in cryptocurrencies per month, a number that is expected to increase with the rule change."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Bloomberg Law

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"Coinbase partners with payments firm Stripe

The partnership means Stripe will incorporate Coinbase’s Layer 2 network Base into its crypto payout products.

In addition, users can use Stripe’s fiat-to-crypto onramp to buy digital assets with credit cards or Apple Pay inside the Coinbase Wallet.

The crypto exchange giant Coinbase and payment firm Stripe have penned a partnership.

Stripe will incorporate Coinbase's Layer 2 network Base into its crypto payout products, and Coinbase will add Stripe as a way for its customers to buy crypto with credit cards or Apple Pay inside the Coinbase Wallet, according to a Coinbase release published Thursday.

"Crypto is the future of money because it is unrestricted by international borders or banking hours, and reduces both friction and fees for users. These three key integrations lay a strong foundation for Stripe and Coinbase to begin building a better payments future for users around the world," Coinbase wrote in a statement."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  The Block

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"Worldcoin’s WorldID to arrive on Solana via Wormhole grant

The Worldcoin Foundation announced 16 grants worth over $800,000 at current WLD prices.

In a June 27 statement, Worldcoin said the ID integration effort will “equip the Solana ecosystem with a much-needed tool” for proving humanness.

The grant awards 25,000 WLD to Wormhole.

Wormhole described the grant in greater detail, stating that it will seamlessly allow Solana-based protocols to verify user IDs previously authenticated on the Ethereum blockchain.

Wormhole described several benefits related to the integration. The approach will allow for new use cases and demonstrate the versatility of Wormhole’s multichain infrastructure.

Furthermore, the integration aims to make verification easy for developers and ensure forward compatibility with future updates and improvements in verification methods.

The effort also aims to enhance security and decentralization by ensuring ID verification is carried out in a manner that preserves privacy. It will also improve cross-chain interoperability by allowing more decentralized apps to interact with identity verification systems on Ethereum.

Finally, the initiative aims to grow financial inclusion by supporting Worldcoin in providing universal access to the digital economy by serving ID users worldwide."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Crypto Slate

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"JPMorgan Chase says its stress test losses should be higher than what the Fed disclosed

JPMorgan Chase said late Wednesday that the Federal Reserve overestimated a key measure of income for the giant bank’s recent stress test, and that its losses under the exam should actually be higher than what the regulator found.

The bank took the unusual step of issuing a press release minutes before midnight ET to disclose its response to the Fed’s findings.

The error means that JPMorgan might require more time to finalize its share repurchase plan, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.

JPMorgan Chase said late Wednesday that the Federal Reserve overestimated a key measure of income in the giant bank’s recent stress test, and that its losses under the exam should actually be higher than what the regulator found.

The bank took the unusual step of issuing a press release minutes before midnight ET to disclose its response to the Fed’s findings.

“Should the Firm’s analysis be correct, the resulting stress losses would be modestly higher than those disclosed by the Federal Reserve,” the bank said.

The error means that JPMorgan might require more time to finalize its share repurchase plan, according to a person with knowledge of the situation who declined to be identified speaking about the regulatory process. Banks were expected to begin disclosing those plans on Friday after the market closes.

The news is a wrinkle to the Federal Reserve’s announcement Wednesday that all 31 of the banks in the annual exercise cleared the hurdle of being able to withstand a severe hypothetical recession, while maintaining adequate capital levels and the ability to lend to consumers and corporations."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  CNBC

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"Japan Fires Its Top Currency Diplomat As Yen Disintegrates, Another Intervention Looms

It is hardly a coincidence that literally minutes after the USDJPY hit 161 for the first time in almost two generations that Japan's Nikkei reported the man who had been tasked to explain away Japan's absolutely catastrophic currency policy, one which has made the yen the worst performing currency of the world and the envy of banana republics everywhere, Japan's top currency "diplomat". Masato Kanda, has been fired.

Kanda will be replaced with Atsushi Mimura, a director-general of the Finance Ministry's international bureau, who will take over as vice finance minister for international affairs on July 31.

And while no amount of intervention will prevent the yen from imploding further - to do that the BOJ will have to raise rates to 4% or higher, setting of a cataclysmic collapse of the entire Japanese bond market - the outrage among the populace at the runaway inflation in Japan in large part due to the plunging currency, is finally being addressed now that Japan is facing election in a few months, and scapegoat time has arrived."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  ZeroHedge

~~~~~~~~~

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More News, Rumors and Opinions Friday PM 6-28-2024

KTFA:

Clare:  Iraq sells 104 million barrels of oil in May

6/28/2024  Baghdad -

The Ministry of Oil revealed, today, Thursday, the results of Iraq's oil exports during the past month of May.

The ministry stated in a brief statement received by Mawazine News, that "the total oil exports achieved for the past month of May, according to the final statistics issued by the Iraqi Oil Marketing Company (SOMO), amounted to (104) million and (130) thousand and (292) barrels." LINK

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Clare:  Iraq and Britain discuss preparations for Sudanese's visit to the United Kingdom and ways to enhance partnership and cooperation between the two countries

6/27/2024

The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral Affairs and Legal Affairs, Omar Al-Barzanji, received the Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to the Republic of Iraq, Rosie Cave, in his office in the ministry building.

A statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that during the meeting, they discussed strengthening relations between the two friendly countries and discussing issues of common interest, as the Undersecretary pointed out the importance of working to develop frameworks for cooperation in various fields, noting that the two countries are linked by relations of common interests in various economic, political and strategic fields.

For her part, Cave pointed out, during the meeting, to the ongoing preparations for the visit of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani to the United Kingdom, and ways to enhance partnership and cooperation between the two countries.

 She also expressed her thanks and appreciation to the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its continuous support and assistance in overcoming the obstacles facing the embassy in Iraq, and praised the role of the ministry in enhancing cooperation between the two countries to achieve common goals.   LINK

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Clare: The President of the Republic approves a number of laws, including the 2024 budget schedules

6/27/2024   Baghdad - 

Today, Thursday, the President of the Republic, Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, approved a number of laws, including the 2024 budget schedules.

The Presidency’s Media Department said in a statement - received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA): “The President of the Republic, Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, ratified a number of draft laws, which are the schedules of the Federal General Budget Law for the year 2024, the first amendment to the Anti-Prostitution and Homosexuality Law, and the Law Extending the work of the Independent High Electoral Commission, and the first amendment law to the law regulating the rent of agricultural lands and granting ownership of the right to dispose of them for agricultural and veterinary graduates.”

The statement added, "The laws were sent after their approval by the President of the Republic for publication in the Iraqi newspaper Al-Waqae' to enter into force."

The Presidency of the Republic confirmed - according to the statement - that it is “moving forward in supporting legislation and laws that are in the interest of the country and citizens, by approving the laws approved by the House of Representatives, as well as by submitting draft laws by the Presidency of the Republic to the House of Representatives for the purpose of discussing and approving them.”  LINK

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Courtesy of Dinar Guru:  https://www.dinarguru.com/

Frank26  [Iraq boots-on-the-ground report]  FIREFLY:
The television is saying parliament committee is saying there is a new number in the budget.  They just admitted we have a new exchange rate and they say they want to be in charge of it, that they want to control, they want to put some votes...Saying the budget has numbers that will change and that's unconstitutional without another reading...It is a 15 day appeals process...

Holly   ...based on Iraq’s progress things are definitely on track to being done...I see a culmination of this sometime this summer and it could go now or it could be later, no one and I mean no one will know when...We are definitely in the end time of all of this

*************

BREAKING NEWS Zimbabwe Haiti Argentina Rates & News

Edu Matrix:  6-28-2024

BREAKING NEWS Zimbabwe, Haiti, Argentina Rates & News - ZiG Strengthing through taxes; Hait's New PM Kenyian Police; Argentina's Inflation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgZRkuCbzso

Rafi Farber The Forex Markets Are Beginning to Break Down

Arcadia Economics:  6-28-2024

The next 4 months or so are going to be tumultuous.

The chaos is reflected in the currency markets, and it is only a matter of time before gold and silver react forcefully to the changes yet to come this year.

The Japanese yen - the gob of spit keeping the Keynesian pyramid together - keeps plunging lower, and the Bank of Japan has yet to respond.

The more they respond though, the more the markets push back, as there is little that is more profitable than pouncing a cornered central bank.

Just ask George Soros. As order crumbles, silver will be a shining light in the midst of the chaos.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcgpSh5W4-o

Global Economic News from the Seeds of Wisdom Team Friday Afternoon 6-28-24

Global Economic News from the Seeds of Wisdom Team Friday Afternoon 6-28-24

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

"Third plenum in mid-July to draw clear path for high-quality development amid complex global situation

"The Communist Party of China (CPC) will convene, on July 15 in Beijing, the third plenary session of its 20th central committee, which will primarily examine issues related to further comprehensively deepening reform and advancing Chinese modernization, according to a Thursday meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee chaired by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee.

The critical meeting, often referred to as the third plenum in its shortened form, is expected to draw a road map for China's continuously deepening reforms for years to come. Coming at a time marked by changes unseen in a century and complex international and domestic situations, the plenum will offer a clear path for the country's pursuit of high-quality development and ultimately Chinese modernization, experts said.

Experts said that the third plenum will offer the sense of continuity in the CPC's steadfast efforts and unwavering commitment to carrying out reform, and is of utmost importance to propelling the Chinese nation ahead and achieving its ultimate goal of national rejuvenation.

Underscoring this firm determination, in March, Xi sounded the clarion call for reform, dispelling concerns about whether China's reform efforts are "stagnating," or its economy is "losing steam.""

© Newshounds News™

Read more: Global Times  

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"China-Serbia FTA to take effect on July 1, further facilitates bilateral exchanges

The free trade agreement (FTA) between China and Serbia will officially take effect on July 1, 2024, as the two sides will gradually eliminate tariffs on 90 percent of products in the tariff lines. Tariffs for more than 60 percent of products will be suspended immediately on the same day, China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) said on Friday in a statement.

The move will promote the growth of bilateral trade, as consumers in both countries will be able to enjoy better and more favorable imported products. In addition, it will boost the investment cooperation and industrial chain integration and jointly elevate international competitiveness by utilizing both countries' advantages, according to the official.

The FTA has also established institutional arrangements for related fields, including rules of origin, customs procedures and trade facilitation, trade remedies, dispute settlement, intellectual property rights protection, investment cooperation, competition and other areas. The arrangements will provide a convenient, transparent and stable business environment for enterprises of both countries."

© Newshounds News™

Read more here:  Global Times    

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There has been a lot of talk about different coins being 'backed' by precious metals...

"This Is Why XRP Cannot Be Backed by Gold, Ex-Ripple Official Explains

Matt Hamilton trashes XRP's gold backing talk

Ripple's former director of developer relations, Matt Hamilton, has dispelled another popular misconception surrounding XRP. This time it was talk and speculation that XRP could be backed by gold. This kind of talk has emerged relatively recently amid speculation that XRP could be accepted by the world's banks and other financial institutions for international settlements and would be backed by gold for its fair value.

Hamilton is adamant that such an outcome is impossible. The blockchain developer explains his view that XRP is a decentralized cryptocurrency with finite supply, which trades on the open market and has no issuer to hold collateral for gold. For this reason, Hamilton explains, XRP cannot be inflated to have a peg with another asset.

The only contact between gold and XRP is possible through its tokenization via XRP Ledger, with the creation of a token tracking the precious metal's quotes, concluded the developer. For those who do not believe it and still think otherwise, Hamilton offered to exchange one ounce of gold for one XRP."

© Newshounds News™

Read more: U Today

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"Summer Davos concludes, highlighting China's critical role on global stage

Experts, scholars hail nation's 'certainties' as worldwide risks soar

The 15th Annual Meeting of the New Champions (AMNC24), also known as the Summer Davos, wrapped up on Thursday with officials, economists and business leaders from around the world concluding their three-day discussion covering topics spanning from technology, economics and geopolitics and highlighting China's key role in driving the global economic growth.

At the event, Chinese and international business leaders and scholars hailed "certainties" from China amid a turbulent world and highlighted China's critical role in helping address growing challenges, including the global economic downturn.

Compared with the first two days' spotlight on specific discussions addressing artificial intelligence (AI), climate change, food and energy security, panels held on the third day - Thursday - attached more importance on how China could drive the world forward.

Jin Keyu highlighted that China's new innovative business models, and the digital economy, accounting about 40 percent of the country's GDP, are a practical and cost-effective solution to many developing countries' present problems."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Global Times    

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"HKMA to join European test of cross-border payments on tokenised assets

Agreement with France’s central bank will make HKMA the first non-European participant in tests of the European Central Bank’s Eurosystem

“This marks an important milestone as HKMA will be the only major central banking institution outside the Eurosystem participating in the initiative,” Colin Pou Hak-wan, executive director of HKMA, said on Thursday.

The collaboration came about because both parties are working on wholesale CBDC projects, Pou said. HKMA in March announced a CBDC pilot project called Project Ensemble, while BDF has a similar project called DL3S.

“HKMA’s recent announcement of the launch of Project Ensemble was very timely to initiate this cooperation. We look forward to further testing our DL3S platform in this context and hope that together we can facilitate the financial inclusion expected from enhanced cross-border payments.”

France is also among the 26 observing members of project mBridge, a multi-country CBDC project involving mainland China, Hong Kong, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates as founding members. Saudi Arabia joined the project earlier this month as a full member.

Started in 2021, mBridge allows the central banks and the Bank for International Settlements Innovation Hub to use digital currencies built on distributed ledger technology to enable instant cross-border payments and settlement."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Currency Insider 

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"Hong Kong, France announce cross border CBDC interoperability trial

Earlier this week the European Central Bank (ECB) announced 48 new participants in the second wave of its wholesale DLT settlement trials. The unexpected news was the participation of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA). The ECB trials include three central bank settlement solutions, only one of which is a wholesale CBDC (wCBDC) from the Banque de France. Based on today’s announcement, Hong Kong only plans to work with France’s CBDC platform DL3S to enable real time cross border payments.

In early March the HKMA unveiled Project Ensemble, a new wholesale CBDC initiative to support interbank payments using tokenized deposits. It also aims to provide a settlement asset for tokenization projects such as Hong Kong’s recent digital green bond.

Today’s announcement did not mention mBridge. The HKMA is one of five central banks participating in mBridge, the most advanced cross border CBDC initiative. Both the Banque de France and the ECB are mBridge observers. However, what is being proposed as part of the Eurosystem tests is quite different.

This third route is the hardest because the systems were not designed to interconnect. It means if France or Hong Kong want to link with another system, they more-or-less start again. However, if the work is part of a learning process, it could help in developing interoperability standards.

mBridge is currently in its minimum viable product (MVP) phase. Going forward, some countries may choose not to participate directly in mBridge. That would mean that the country’s currency is not directly supported. However, out of pragmatism, mBridge might choose to connect to a handful of external platforms that support important currencies. That remains to be seen."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Currency Insider  

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"North Carolina Senate approves CBDC ban bill

On Wednesday (June 26), the North Carolina Senate passed a bill aimed at prohibiting central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) in the state. The legislation now awaits the Governor’s signature to become law.

If enacted, the bill would prevent North Carolina from participating in any Federal Reserve testing of future CBDCs. Additionally, it would bar state agencies and courts from accepting CBDC payments.

The Carolina Journal reports that Senate Bill 690 received overwhelming support, passing with a 109-4 vote. This marks an increase from Tuesday’s 39-5 vote.

Senator Brad Overcash, a proponent of the bill, stated that its purpose is to discourage the federal government from pursuing CBDC implementation. He argued that such a move could potentially undermine the dollar’s status as a major global currency.  He said:

This would bar our state agencies or courts from accepting a central bank digital currency, and it would also bar them from participating in a pilot project if one were to be initiated by any of the Federal Reserve Banks. […] This is an important step to the stability of our financial sector and our financial privacy.

The North Carolina bill aligns with broader national skepticism towards CBDCs. In May, U.S. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer proposed the CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act, seeking to halt the Federal Reserve’s efforts to develop a digital dollar. The act raised concerns about potential government control over Americans through a CBDC.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, speaking at a Senate Banking Committee hearing in March, emphasized that the U.S. is “nowhere near” adopting a CBDC in any form.

Earlier this week, Louisiana quietly enacted House Bill 488, a crypto bill known as the “Blockchain Basics Act” or “Bitcoin Rights” bill. Other than guaranteeing some crypto-related rights, the bill also prohibits CBDC creation."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Currency Insider    

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"CBDC is future of money; no competition with UPI: RBI Governor

Shaktikanta Das says CBDC is interoperable — with the same QR code, one can make UPI payments or CBDC payments

He says the digital currency is in a trial mode with the central bank currently running a pilot project.

“We have made it interoperable because (with) the same QR code you can make UPI payments you can make CBDC payments,” Das adds. The bank plans to enable users to make money transfers using the digital currency to accounts through the latter’s UPI. The bank has started incorporating new features into the new currency so that one can program even the conditions of their CBDC transfers."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Currency Insider    

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"CBDCs can improve cross-border payments, financial inclusion in the Middle East: IMF

In a statement, the IMF noted that two-thirds of the 19 countries in the two regions are exploring CBDCs. Some, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, are at the proof-of-concept stage; Kazakhstan is the most advanced after conducting two pilot programs for its digital tenge.

The most advanced cross-border CBDC project in the Middle East is mBridge, which includes the UAE and, as of this month, Saudi Arabia. mBridge, which also includes China, Hong Kong, and Thailand, entered the MVP stage recently.

In some CBDC models, digital currencies are directly offered by central banks, which, unlike commercial banks, are not after profits. This allows them to provide services and products that other lenders can’t, and in turn, they increase competition in the payments space.

The IMF cautioned that for Middle Eastern and Central Asian nations to maximize the benefits of CBDCs, they must address the risks. This includes potential bank disintermediation, which could impact deposits and, consequently, the ability of commercial banks to lend to their clients.

Some central banks, such as the Bank of Israel, view this competition differently with commercial lenders. BOI has proposed an interest-bearing CBDC, which it believes would chip away at bank deposits. However, it views this as healthy competition that would challenge the banks to improve their services."

© Newshounds News™

Read more:  Currency Insider    

~~~~~~~~~

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Dinar Explainer 2: Consequences of Iraq's Two Exchange Rates

KTFA:

Clare:  Dinar Explainer 2: Consequences of Iraq's Two Exchange Rates

28th June 2024 

On a recent webinar organised by the Iraq Britain Business Council (IBBC), Professor Frank Gunter of Lehigh University outlined the key changes in the dinar exchange rate over the years, as well as the consequences of having two exchange rates. (For more on the reasons why Iraq has two exchange rates, click here).

Current Exchange Rates

There are two exchange rates in Iraq: the official exchange rate and the market rate.

The official exchange rate is approximately 1,310 Iraqi dinars per US dollar.

The market rate is higher, at around 1,460 Iraqi dinars per US dollar, which represents a 12% gap between the two rates.

Impact of Dual Exchange Rates

The existence of dual exchange rates has several negative effects on Iraq's economy:

It slows economic growth by disrupting existing contracts and discouraging trade and investment both domestically and internationally.

It encourages corruption, as individuals and entities can profit from the difference between the official and market rates by being paid in dollars and making payments in dinars.

It complicates fiscal policy, making it harder for the government to manage the economy effectively.

Historical Changes in Exchange Rates

December 2020: The dinar was devalued by 23%, primarily due to the fiscal crisis of 2020 and the drop in oil prices. This devaluation was intended to allow the Ministry of Finance to obtain more dinars for each dollar of oil revenue.

February 2023: There was a revaluation, increasing the value of the dinar from 1,450 to 1,310 per dollar. This revaluation was beneficial for importers, as it made imports cheaper, but it negatively impacted exporters of non-oil goods, making their products more expensive abroad.

Effect of Dollar Appreciation

Since the revaluation in February 2023, the US dollar has appreciated by about 3.3%. This further makes imports cheaper in Iraq but makes exports more expensive, affecting the balance of trade.

Challenges of Dual Exchange Rates

The dual exchange rates have contributed to economic disruption by making it difficult to conduct business with predictable costs and revenues. The gap between the rates incentivizes corrupt practices and complicates governmental fiscal management, ultimately leading to slower economic growth.

In summary, the official and market exchange rates in Iraq have undergone significant changes in recent years, driven by economic crises and fiscal policy decisions. The dual rates present ongoing challenges for economic stability, growth, and governance.

The consequences of having two exchange rates in Iraq can be summarised as:

Slowing Economic Growth

The dual exchange rate system disrupts existing contracts and discourages both domestic and international trade and investment. This disruption hinders economic stability and growth.

Encouraging Corruption

The gap between the official and market exchange rates creates opportunities for corrupt practices. Individuals and entities can profit from the difference by being paid in dollars and making payments in dinars, exploiting the discrepancy for financial gain.

Complicating Fiscal Policy

Managing the economy becomes more challenging with dual exchange rates. The existence of two rates complicates fiscal policy, making it difficult for the government to implement effective economic measures and maintain financial stability.

LINK

Dinar Explainer 1: Why Iraq has Two Exchange Rates

TNT:

CandyKisses:  Dinar Explainer 1: Why Iraq has Two Exchange Rates

By John Lee.

On a recent webinar organised by the Iraq Britain Business Council (IBBC), Professor Frank Gunter of Lehigh University explained the causes and effects of Iraq's dual exchange rate.

The three reasons why Iraq has two exchange rates are:

1. Excessive Demand for US Dollars Internationally:

There is a high demand for US dollars in countries like Iran and Syria, where local currencies have significantly devalued. Entities in these countries are desperate to obtain dollars, which are accepted everywhere and difficult to trace.

The excessive demand for US dollars internationally is driven by several factors:

1. Currency Devaluation in Neighboring Countries:

• The Iranian rial has lost 75% of its value due to sanctions from the US and other nations.

• The Syrian pound has lost 99% of its value primarily due to the ongoing civil war.

• These significant devaluations have led entities in Iran and Syria to seek more stable currencies like the US dollar.

2. Preference for Physical Dollars:

• There is a particular demand for physical US dollars (paper currency) rather than electronic funds transfers (EFTs). Physical dollars are preferred because they are accepted everywhere and are impossible to trace, making them more desirable for transactions that may need to avoid scrutiny.

3. Cheaper Source of Dollars in Iraq:

• Due to these devaluations and economic instability, Iran and Syria find it more feasible to obtain dollars from Iraq. The Iraqi market offers a cheaper source of dollars, requiring fewer real resources compared to other regions.

These factors collectively create a significant international demand for US dollars, which in turn impacts Iraq's exchange rate dynamics by increasing the pressure on its currency system and contributing to the existence of dual exchange rates.

1. Internal Demand for Dollars:

Within Iraq, the dollar has dominated the dinar both as a medium of exchange and as a store of value. Although recent regulatory changes have reduced this dominance, the demand for dollars remains strong.

The internal demand for dollars in Iraq is driven by several key factors highlighted in the text:

1. Dominance of the Dollar:

• Historically, the US dollar has dominated the Iraqi dinar both as a medium of exchange and as a store of value. This dominance means that people prefer to use and hold dollars over the local currency, contributing to the internal demand for dollars.

2. Regulatory Changes:

• Although there have been recent regulatory changes aimed at reducing the dominance of the dollar, the demand remains strong. These changes have not been sufficient to shift the preference from dollars to dinars significantly.

3. Economic Practices:

• Iraq's economy is still very much a cash economy. The Central Bank of Iraq estimated that there were 90 trillion dinars outside financial intermediaries, highlighting the extensive use of cash. This reliance on cash further underscores the preference for a stable currency like the dollar.

4. Banking System Challenges:

• The banking system in Iraq is underdeveloped. The state-owned banks are not private sector-oriented, with major banks like Rafidain and Rasheed facing difficulties. Additionally, Iraq is severely under-banked, with only four bank branches and five ATMs per 100,000 Iraqis, compared to the Middle East and Northern Africa average of 14 branches and 37 ATMs.

• The lack of a universal core banking system, which makes it difficult to withdraw funds from a different branch than where the deposit was made, contributes to the preference for holding dollars.

5. Insecurity of Deposits:

• The perception that deposits have become more insecure has increased the demand for dollars. For instance, the suspension of dollar withdrawals starting January 1, 2024, has likely exacerbated concerns about the security and accessibility of funds, driving people to prefer holding dollars.

These factors collectively create a strong internal demand for dollars in Iraq, complicating efforts to manage the exchange rate and stabilize the economy.

1. De-Dollarization Efforts by the New York Fed:

The New York Federal Reserve has restricted dollar transfers to reduce dollar flows to Iran and Syria. They have also excluded over two dozen Iraqi banks from transactions, which has increased the complexity and demand for dollars in Iraq.

The de-dollarization efforts by the New York Federal Reserve (New York Fed) are part of a broader strategy to control the flow of US dollars, particularly to countries under sanctions such as Iran and Syria. Here are the key points from the text:

1. Restriction on Dollar Transfers:

• The New York Fed has restricted the transfer of physical dollars to Iraq. Previously, both electronic dollars (via electronic funds transfer, or EFT) and paper dollars could be sent to Iraq. Now, the New York Fed primarily allows only electronic transfers while restricting the shipment of actual paper dollars.

2. Exclusion of Iraqi Banks:

• Over two dozen Iraqi banks have been excluded from doing transactions with the New York Fed. The New York Fed will not transfer funds to these banks or respect their transactions. This exclusion is part of the effort to control the flow of dollars and reduce the likelihood that they will end up in countries like Iran and Syria.

3. Objective of De-Dollarization:

• The primary goal of these restrictions is to reduce dollar flows to Iran and Syria. By limiting access to physical dollars and restricting certain banks, the New York Fed aims to make it more difficult for these countries to obtain US dollars, which are in high demand due to the devaluation of their own currencies and economic sanctions.

4. Impact on Iraq:

• The de-dollarization efforts have significant implications for Iraq. The restriction on physical dollar transfers and the exclusion of certain banks have added to the complexity and demand for dollars within Iraq. These measures are part of the broader challenge facing the Iraqi government as it tries to manage its dual exchange rates and stabilize its economy.

These efforts by the New York Fed are part of a strategic initiative to use financial controls as a means of exerting economic pressure on countries like Iran and Syria, while also attempting to mitigate the impact on the Iraqi economy.

You can read more on the history and consequences of the dinar exchange rate here.

https://www.iraq-businessnews.com/?p=221422