Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Friday Morning 10-3-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Taiwan Considers High-Tech Strategic Partnership with United States

As Taipei and Washington negotiate tech, tariffs, and investment, the choices made could signal a shift from the old trade balance toward new models of alignment and control.

What’s on the Table

  ● Taiwan is in talks with the U.S. to form a high-tech strategic partnership aimed at reducing the 20% tariff on Taiwanese exports and expanding semiconductor cooperation. 
  ● Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun leads the discussion. The “Taiwan model” would expand U.S. production capacity through Taiwanese investment without relocating the bulk of Taiwan’s supply chains.
  ● The U.S. reportedly floated a 50-50 chip production split, which Taiwan has firmly rejected. 
  ● Taiwan is pushing for industrial credit guarantees, joint clusters, and tariff reform to give the partnership structure and financial backing. 
  ● Meanwhile, Taiwan chipmaker TSMC is investing ~$165 billion in U.S. capacity (Arizona) but maintains that core production stays in Taiwan. 

Why It Matters

• This agreement could redefine supply chain power — instead of offshoring, Taiwan would anchor U.S. capacity via investment, shifting influence outward.

• Taiwan preserves its core sovereignty and technological edge, resisting demands to move production.

• The U.S. gains a more secure, partially onshore semiconductor base to reduce exposure to geopolitical risk.

Out With the Old, In With the New — Financial & Strategic Implications

🔹 Reinventing Tech Leverage
Rather than trade wars or tariffs as blunt tools, this partnership shapes new interdependence models: investment, cluster development, credit guarantees.

🔹 Capital Flows & Credit Structures
To support new industrial clusters, funding must move — loans, guarantees, venture funds, investment banks — possibly outside traditional Western channels.

🔹 Currency & Settlement Impact
If payment and settlement for this partnership can be conducted using non-USD mechanisms (e.g. local currency credits or regional systems), it would chip away at dollar dominance in technology trade corridors.

🔹 Institutional Significance
Strategic alignments like this carve new spheres of influence. Taiwan engaging deeply with the U.S. through tech, not just diplomacy, signals where future global alignments may lie.

Why This Matters / Key Takeaway

Taiwan and the U.S. are not just discussing trade; they’re scripting a new template for industrial alliance in the tech era. By balancing sovereignty with integration, Taiwan is crafting a model that might outlast the old trade frameworks. This negotiation isn’t incremental — it's part of the tectonic shifts of power and finance unfolding today.

This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.

@ Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources & Further Reading

• Reuters – Taiwan considers high-tech strategic partnership with U.S. Reuters

• Reuters – Taiwan rejects U.S. 50-50 chip production split Reuters

• Taipei Times – Vice Premier moots high-tech deal with the U.S. Taipei Times

• Moderndiplomacy – Taiwan considers high-tech strategic partnership with U.S. Modern Diplomacy

• Digitimes – Industrial clusters are key to Taiwan-US partnership DIGITIMES Asia

• FastBull – Taiwan explores high-tech strategic partnership with U.S. FastBull

• Wikipedia – TSMC global expansion & Arizona facility Wikipedia

  
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Humanity Over Hostility: Seoul Seeks Family Reunions With the North

Seoul’s push to reconnect divided families may appear humanitarian — but it also signals deeper undercurrents of shift: out with old antagonisms, in with new diplomatic and financial realignments.

What’s Happening Now

  ● South Korean President Lee Jae-myung called on North Korea to resume family reunions for those separated by the Korean War, especially ahead of the Chuseok holiday. 
  ● Approximately 36,000 South Koreans have requested reunion chances via the Unification Ministry — many aging and hoping to see long-lost relatives. 
  ● The last such reunions were held in 2018, after which inter-Korean talks deteriorated and the physical facility used for reunions in North Korea was dismantled. 
  ● Lee framed reunions as a “humanitarian responsibility” transcending politics, urging that even amid hostility, basic human connection must persist. 

Why It Matters

• Soft power in action — Unlike military posturing, this move appeals to public sentiment, bridging distance emotionally before policy.

• Signaling intent — By raising this agenda early in his term, Lee indicates that he seeks a new posture in inter-Korea engagement.

• Diplomatic leverage — Reunions could become a bargaining chip in broader diplomacy: nuclear talks, sanctions relief, or development aid.

• Undercurrents of change — When societies break from entrenched hostility toward engagement, it can precede systemic shifts in alliances, trade, and financing.

Out With Old, In With New — In the Financial Sphere

🔹 Economic channels follow emotional ones
Restoration of people-to-people ties often leads, over time, to resumption of trade, infrastructure cooperation, and cross-border investment. The reunions are a soft opening to new flows.

🔹 Alternative financing & partnership opportunities
If reconciliation deepens, South Korea (and possibly third-party states) might structure financial or development deals outside Western-led institutions — for example, partnerships with China, Russia, or even via BRICS mechanisms.

🔹 Reframing legitimacy and authority
By taking the moral high ground, Seoul can assert narratives that don’t depend solely on U.S. backing or UN sanctions regimes. It’s about rebuilding legitimacy through empathy as much as power.

🔹 Institutional gray zones
Reunions blur the line between humanitarian and political. Entities like the Red Cross, UN, and NGOs may play larger roles, bypassing rigid state-to-state diplomacy. That opens space for institutions beyond the old bilateral models.

Why This Matters / Key Takeaway

Reviving family reunions isn’t just about kindness — it’s a step toward reweaving ties that ideology severed. In doing so, Korea edges toward new diplomatic and economic architectures, challenging old hostility and opening doors to reshaped alliances and financial paths.

This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.

@ Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources & Further Reading

• Reuters / Associated Press – South Korea urges North to resume family reunions Reuters

• Modern Diplomacy – Humanity Over Hostility: Seoul Seeks Family Reunions With the North Modern Diplomacy

• NK News – Lee calls on North Korea to allow contact between separated families NK News - North Korea News

• Yeni Safak – South Korea urges North to resume family contact, citing responsibility of political circles Yeni Safak

• AP News – North Korea demolishes reunion facility at Diamond Mountain AP News

• NK News / Seoul observatory sources

• Wikipedia – Seoul–Pyongyang hotline and inter-Korean lines Wikipedia

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“Tidbits From TNT” Friday Morning 10-3-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Al-Sudani, congratulating on the National Day: We were keen to protect Iraq and preserve its sovereignty.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, today, Friday, on the National Day, while stressing the keenness to preserve Iraq and maintain its sovereignty.

Al-Sudani said in a statement, "Our most sincere congratulations and best wishes are extended to all Iraqis on the occasion of "Iraqi National Day", which falls on October 3 of each year, on the 93rd anniversary of our country's membership in the highest international body recognized by all countries and peoples of the world."

He added, "This day embodies the entity of the modern Iraqi state, and all that its contemporary existence carries in terms of historical, civilizational and cultural meanings, for our beloved Iraq, and for our noble people with all their fraternal spectra, and with all their deep historical reach and what they have offered to humanity in its journey towards civilization, that journey that began in the land between the two rivers."

He continued, "Throughout their modern history, Iraqis have faced many challenges and struggles, whether during the early days of the founding of the present Iraqi state or during their fight against dictatorship. Along the way, they have offered hundreds of thousands of martyrs so that Iraq may gain its independence and achieve its full sovereignty."

He   explained, "Since we assumed our executive duties as head of the government, we have been keen to safeguard Iraq and its constitution, preserve its sovereignty, protect its wealth, and achieve prosperity and economic strength for our people.

 We have also worked diligently and sincerely to ensure that Iraq comes first in our endeavors and efforts, and that it takes the place it deserves regionally and internationally."  link

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Tishwash:  Mastercard: Technical glitch suspends money transfers for citizens in Iraq

An Iraqi banking source reported on Thursday that a technical glitch in the MasterCard network has caused the suspension of financial transfers to citizens using the network's cards, affecting millions of dinars in transfers.

The source explained to Shafaq News Agency that the glitch occurred suddenly, leading to the suspension of financial transactions and the suspension of all funds transferred at the time of the problem. He confirmed that the relevant authorities are working to fix the system.

The source assured citizens that the funds would be returned to their owners or transferred to the holding entity within 24 hours of the technical glitch being fixed. link

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Tishwash:  Washington supports the Baghdad-Erbil oil agreement to curb oil smuggling and enhance investment stability.

 Economic expert Nabil Al-Marsoumi said on Friday that Washington's support for the Baghdad-Erbil oil agreement contributes to reducing oil smuggling and enhancing investment stability in Iraq. 

Al-Marsoumi explained in a Facebook post monitored by (IQ): “Why does Washington support the oil agreement between Baghdad and Erbil? With the Turkish pipeline closed since March 2023, some oil has been transported to Iran and Turkey via trucks while they search for alternative markets. Resuming exports from Kurdistan also helps offset a potential decline in Iranian oil exports, which Washington has said it will reduce to zero as part of President Trump’s maximum pressure policy against Iran.” 

He added, "Limiting the smuggling of Iraqi oil to Türkiye and Iran serves the economic interests of American oil companies investing in Kurdistan." 

Al-Marsoumi continued: "The agreement will contribute to creating a more stable investment environment across Iraq for American companies, and will maintain low oil prices, which will help control inflation levels in the United States  link

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Tishwash:  US investments accelerate in Iraq... Akkas field a strategic opportunity to boost energy

 Us Iraq seeks to contain the economic repercussions of European sanctions on Iran, the investment in the Akkas gas field in Anbar province is emerging as a strategic opportunity to reshape the energy landscape in the west of the country. 

A full year after signing an investment contract with a Ukrainian company that had not yet begun any field work, the Ministry of Oil decided to open the door to international companies, signing a new contract with the American company Schlumberger to develop the field, whose reserves are estimated at approximately 5.6 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. 

This move comes at a time when American companies are rushing to strengthen their presence in the Iraqi market, reflecting significant shifts in energy investment trends and shaping international competition over the country's strategic resources.

In an interview with Al-Alam Al-Jadeed, parliamentary Electricity and Energy Committee member Dahel Al-Hamidi said, "The American moves to invest in Anbar's oil and gas fields represent a significant turning point in Iraq's energy policy."

He added, "This step is not limited to being an oil project alone, but rather a message that the investment environment in Iraq has become more stable," noting that "the challenges resulting from sanctions on Iran and the recent snapback mechanism require Iraq to move quickly to invest its national resources to reduce dependence on foreign imports and ensure sovereign balance in the energy sector."

The company has already begun drilling and preparation work, with a production plan targeting a capacity increase to 100 million cubic feet per day by adding 60 million cubic feet allocated to feed the Anbar Combined Cycle Power Plant, with future plans to reach 400 million cubic feet per day in subsequent phases. Meanwhile, the Iraq Investment Forum, held in Baghdad on September 27-28, confirmed that other American companies have begun practical steps towards investing in oil and gas fields.

The Akkas field is the second-largest gas field in the Middle East, and if properly developed, it could provide more than 10,000 job opportunities in its first phase, in addition to generating revenue for Anbar Province and the country.

This comes at a critical moment for Baghdad with the implementation of new international sanctions on Iran. These measures present it with a difficult balance between its obligations to the international community and its urgent need for the Iranian market. Experts have warned of disruptions to supply chains, rising prices, and worsening currency smuggling, noting that the greatest challenge facing Iraq will be maintaining a delicate balance in its relations with Iran without slipping into a confrontation with the international community.

In April 2024, Iraq signed an investment contract for the Akkas gas field with a Ukrainian company. The contract stipulates that the field will produce 100 MMcf/day in the first year, increasing production to 400 MMcf/day within four years, which is sufficient to cover 35% of the Iranian gas Iraq imports.   link

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Mot: .. -- oooh Yes!!! -- the ole ""October Joys""

Mot:  Yeppers!!!!!! 

$1T Gold Reserve Signals Official U.S. Revaluation

$1T Gold Reserve Signals Official U.S. Revaluation

Taylor Kenny:  10-2-2025

The U.S. gold reserve has just crossed the $1 trillion mark as gold prices surge past $3,800 per ounce. What does this mean for the dollar, global markets, and a potential official U.S. gold revaluation?

 The whispers are growing louder, and they’re emanating from the hallowed halls of finance and even catching the attention of main stream media. A topic once relegated to niche economic circles – the potential for an official U.S. gold revaluation – is now a prominent discussion point.

A recent video from ITM Trading, featuring Taylor Kenney, delves into the accelerating momentum behind this idea, and the implications are, to put it mildly, monumental.

As of October 1st, 2025, the gold market is painting a dramatic picture. Prices have already surged by nearly 50% year-to-date, pushing the shimmering metal towards the astonishing mark of $4,000 per ounce.

This isn’t just a speculative bubble; it’s a symptom of deeper shifts in the global monetary landscape.

And at the heart of this conversation lies an often-overlooked asset: the United States’ gargantuan gold reserves.

Imagine this: the U.S. government, holding the world’s largest official gold reserves, has them on its balance sheet valued at a staggering – and frankly, absurd – $42.22 per ounce.

This price hasn’t budged since 1973. Now, consider the immediate financial impact if these reserves were to be revalued at current market prices. It wouldn’t just add a few dollars; it would instantly inject over a trillion dollars into the U.S. Treasury’s balance sheet.

But here’s where it gets even more compelling: the revaluation price could very well be significantly higher than the current spot price, amplifying that fiscal boost exponentially.

This isn’t uncharted territory for the U.S. History buffs will recall President Roosevelt’s bold move in 1933. After confiscating gold bullion, he revalued it from $20.67 to $35 an ounce. While this effectively enriched the government, it also devalued the purchasing power of those holding paper currency.

 The ITM Trading video offers a crucial caveat: a similar revaluation today wouldn’t be a magic wand to fix all of America’s economic woes. However, its consequences for the U.S. dollar and the global monetary system would be profound and far-reaching.

The bedrock of the current global financial system – the U.S. dollar’s status as the world’s reserve currency – is showing cracks. Across the globe, trust in fiat currencies is eroding. This has led to a surge in demand for physical gold, not just from retail investors but also from central banks and institutional players. Adding fuel to this fire is the increasing scarcity of physical gold.

Practices like rehypothecation, where multiple claims are made on the same physical gold, have created a genuine shortage, further driving up demand and, consequently, prices.

The Federal Reserve is no longer on the sidelines of this discussion. They are actively exploring gold revaluation models, taking inspiration from countries like Germany, Italy, and South Africa, which have undertaken similar revaluations in recent decades.

 While revaluing the U.S. gold reserves to the current spot price might seem like a drop in the ocean compared to the nation’s colossal debt, experts suggest the U.S. could choose a revaluation price far exceeding spot to maximize its fiscal advantage.

The potential fallout from such a revaluation is staggering. It would effectively establish a much higher, undeniable floor for gold prices globally. This could accelerate the ongoing shift away from the U.S. dollar as the dominant reserve currency, prompting other nations to further their de-dollarization efforts.

The implications could include the end of dollar dominance, a meteoric rise in interest rates, rampant inflation, and a significant decline in living standards for many. In such a scenario, ownership of physical gold would transition from a strategic investment to a critical tool for wealth preservation.

The message from ITM Trading is clear and urgent: don’t wait for the revaluation to happen. The time to prepare is now. This means securing physical gold and silver.

Understanding the different types of gold available and partnering with trusted dealers is paramount. To help navigate these complex waters, ITM Trading is offering a free guide on gold and silver, designed to equip investors with the knowledge needed to protect their wealth in an increasingly uncertain economic future.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psoiUIrCMN0

Gold/Crypto To Replace Dollar Hegemony? | Rick Rule, Alasdair Macleod, Andy Schectman (Part 1 & 2)

Gold/Crypto To Replace Dollar Hegemony? | Rick Rule, Alasdair Macleod, Andy Schectman (Part 2)

Liberty and Finance:  10-1-2025

In part 2 of this panel discussion, Andy Schectman explains how BRICS Pay, multi‑jurisdictional gold vaults, and central bank digital currencies are creating a settlement system outside the dollar, eroding dollar dominance and enabling gold as a key global standard.

Alasdair MacLeod warns this shift points toward a Bretton Woods‑style system anchored in gold, dismisses cryptocurrencies as a speculative mania, and urges moving out of credit and into real money.

Rick Rule stresses that while the dollar will remain the world’s reserve currency for the foreseeable future, the next decade will be difficult for the unprepared, and he advocates owning assets one understands, especially gold and precious metals.

Together they call for reducing exposure to the U.S. dollar, diversifying into real assets, and adapting strategies to survive and thrive in a changing global monetary landscape.

INTERVIEW TIMELINE:

0:00 Intro

1:30 Gold retail demand

8:33 BRICS & the US dollar

23:00 US dollars vs gold vs crypto

 36:18 Further resources

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

WATCH PART 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBQUw3TFB1w

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Afternoon 10-2-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Token2049 Trends: Quantum, Stablecoins, DeAI & RWA
At Token2049, the industry mapped the trajectory from innovation to infrastructure — and those pathways intersect straight with global financial restructuring.

What Emerged from Token2049 2025

  ● The conference spotlighted quantum resistance, with panels exploring how quantum computing could disrupt crypto security and what post-quantum ledger designs must look like.
  ● Stablecoins remain a core theme — predictions of $1 trillion+ market caps were echoed, and supply, regulation, and cross-border use were debated. 
  ● DeAI / decentralized AI gained traction as a concept: AI agents embedded in blockchains, DAO governance powered by machine learning, and data markets were among the hot topics.
  ● Real-world assets (RWA) tokenization got serious attention: tokenization of real estate, bonds, private credit, art — bringing TradFi onto chain. 

Key Forces Driving These Trends

Quantum Threat & Opportunity
Blockchain protocols are increasingly expected to resist quantum attacks. New cryptographic standards (e.g. lattice, zk-SNARKs with post-quantum tweaks) were discussed.

Stablecoins as Payment Rails
Stablecoins were framed not just as collateral tools but as foundational rails for payments, remittances, and programmatic finance. The push is for institutional adoption.

DeAI / On-chain Intelligence
By blending AI with decentralized infrastructure, architects propose systems that optimize logic, compliance, and resource allocation autonomously — cutting latency, trust frictions, and central points of failure.

RWA Tokenization & Liquidity
Turning physical or traditional assets into tokens promises fractional ownership, access, and tradability. But liquidity, regulation, and standardization are recognized obstacles. Recent academic work notes many RWA tokens have low secondary market volume and structural barriers in custody, valuation, and regulatory gating. 

How These Trends Fit Into Global Restructuring

🔹 Reinventing Money & Settlement
Stablecoins + RWA = programmable money backed by real assets. As this model scales, dollar-based systems may lose primacy as settlement hubs.

🔹 Sovereignty in Tech Infrastructure
Every protocol that embeds AI, quantum resistance, or tokenized assets becomes a domain of control. Nations or blocs that can host or mandate these rails gain strategic influence.

🔹 Fragmentation vs Convergence
The future likely holds multiple token systems — regional or national rails coexisting with open protocols. That splinters power and reduces dominance of any single global financial center.

🔹 The Legitimacy & Trust Pivot
Trust is moving from political institutions to cryptographic institutions. Systems that remain stable, auditable, and resilient will attract capital, influence, and legitimacy.

Why This Matters / Key Takeaway

Token2049 wasn’t a festival — it was a marker of how the next phase of money, value, and governance is being built. These architectures aren’t speculative: they are foundational layers of future finance. As stablecoins, quantum resistance, AI, and real-world asset integration converge, the battleground shifts to who writes the rules, who operates the rails, and who captures the trust.

This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.

@ Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources:

• Newsweek — Ziplines, DJs and Trump: Singapore’s crypto conference has attendees roaring Reuters

• Token2049 official reports / event pages TOKEN2049 Dubai+1

• RWA definition & market context (Wikipedia) Wikipedia

• TOKEN2049 Dubai insights, key takeaways Bitget

• Academic: Tokenize Everything, But Can You Sell It? RWA Liquidity Challenges arXiv

• Academic: Hybrid Monetary Ecosystems: Integrating Stablecoins & Fiat arXi

  
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At Historic Conference, Serbia Weighs BRICS as Alternative to EU Path
Belgrade’s flirtation with BRICS reveals cracks in the European model—and signals realignment pressures in global politics and finance.

Serbia Opens Debate: East or West?

  ● Serbia held its first parliamentary conference evaluating BRICS membership as a possible alternative to full EU integration. 
  ● Organizers included the Parliamentary Group for Cooperation with BRICS and the Socialist Movement led by former intelligence chief Aleksandar Vulin. Vulin criticized EU demands such as recognizing Kosovo’s independence, abandoning traditional ties with Russia/China, and giving up support for Republika Srpska.
  ● The Russian ambassador to Serbia affirmed support for Belgrade’s BRICS ambitions, stating the bloc represents “multipolarity” and cooperation without undue dominance. 

Backing Data & Shifting Public Sentiment

  ● Public support for EU membership in Serbia has dropped sharply—only ~33 % now endorse joining, the lowest in the Western Balkans. 
  ● Yet, around 60 % reportedly support the idea of Serbia entering BRICS, reflecting growing openness to non-Western alternatives. 
  ● Serbia has formally been an EU candidate since 2012, but progress is slow: of 35 negotiation chapters, only 22 opened and just 2 provisionally closed as of 2025. 
  ● Deputy PM Vulin has repeatedly stated BRICS is a viable alternative to EU accession, because it carries fewer political conditions (no requirement to recognize Kosovo’s independence, no forced alignment with sanction regimes). 

Strategic Drivers Behind the Shift

🔹 Sovereignty & Conditionality
Serbian leaders argue BRICS demands less political adherence than the EU—it doesn’t force changes in foreign policy or judicial structure to the same degree. This gives Belgrade more maneuvering room.

🔹 Multipolar Appeal & Identity
By associating with BRICS, Serbia taps into a narrative of resisting Western dominance—projecting alignment with Beijing, Moscow, and Global South states. It positions itself as a player in multipolar diplomacy.

🔹 Financial & Trade Leverage
Joining BRICS could open access to alternative finance, trade in national currencies, and reduced dependence on EU structural funds and conditional lending. Serbia seeks avenues beyond EU grants and subsidies.

🔹 Institutional & Structural Shift
If a country like Serbia abandons or slows EU integration in favor of BRICS, it signals weakening of the EU’s pull—and encourages others in its orbit to reconsider their alignment.

Why This Matters / Key Takeaway

Serbia’s public and institutional debate over BRICS membership is more than a regional curiosity—it epitomizes how countries are rethinking the old paradigms. In choosing between conditional European integration and a looser multipolar alliance, Serbia is testing the strength of global structures. Its pivot could ripple across the Balkans and beyond, reshaping trade, diplomacy, and financial order.

This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.

@ Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources:

• Watcher.Guru – At Historic Conference, Serbia Weighs BRICS as Alternative to EU Path 

• Gazeta Express – Serbia wants to join BRICS, not the EU: First International Conference 

• Intellinews – Serbia records lowest support for EU in Western Balkans 

• International Affairs / Australian Outlook – Serbia between Brussels, Beijing, and Moscow

• Novinite – Serbia Eyes BRICS as Alternative to EU, Citing Political Sovereignty 

• TASS – Serbia views BRICS membership as alternative to EU — Deputy PM 

• TASS – BRICS gives Serbia real alternative to EU without blackmail or humiliation
  

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Follow the Gold/Silver Rate COMEX

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Gold-Backed Currency, How China’s Yuan Could End Cheap Manufacturing

Gold-Backed Currency, How China’s Yuan Could End Cheap Manufacturing

As Good As Gold:  10-1-2025

Imagine a world where the global economic rules are being rewritten, not with abstract financial policies, but with something as tangible and ancient as gold.

This is the intriguing scenario explored in a recent video from As Good As Gold, which delves into the potential implications if China decides to back its currency, the yuan, with gold or adopt a gold standard.

The immediate question that springs to mind for anyone tracking global trade is: Wouldn’t a gold-backed yuan make Chinese manufacturing significantly more expensive, thus hurting its export competitiveness?

It’s a valid concern. Currently, the yuan operates under a fiat system, often kept relatively cheap to support exports.

The expert in the As Good As Gold video confirms that, indeed, if the yuan were backed by gold, its value would strengthen. A gold-backed currency is inherently more stable and robust compared to fiat currencies, which can be prone to inflation and devaluation. This appreciation would, by definition, raise the cost of Chinese manufactured goods in international markets.

However, the expert argues that this cost increase will not be the fatal blow to China’s manufacturing might that many might assume. Here’s why China appears to have a strategic advantage already in play:

Unlike historical examples such as Japan, which faced significant challenges and diversified production abroad when a stronger yen made its exports less competitive, China has been playing a different long game.

Through initiatives like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS, China has meticulously cultivated a massive, captive market encompassing an astonishing 70-80% of the global population.

This strategic market dominance means that even if the yuan appreciates due to gold backing, China can sustain its exports within this vast bloc. Many countries within the SCO and BRICS are increasingly open to trading in yuan or gold-backed currencies, effectively bypassing the Western fiat currency system and its potential vulnerabilities.

Beyond strategic alliances, China also boasts inherent strengths that provide a buffer against currency appreciation. Its advanced technology, particularly in consumer electronics, gives it a competitive edge that reduces sensitivity to currency fluctuations.

Furthermore, even with an appreciating yuan, China’s baseline manufacturing costs are still substantially lower than those in the West.

This significant margin provides considerable room to absorb the impact of a stronger yuan without completely pricing itself out of the market. Essentially, they have a larger cost cushion than many competitors.

A crucial element of China’s long-term strategy, as highlighted by the expert, is anticipating the potential instability of Western fiat currencies. Should these currencies face significant devaluation or collapse, the demand for Chinese exports paid in those currencies would naturally diminish.

In such a scenario, China’s gold-backed yuan and its large, strategically cultivated internal market through alliances like BRICS would act as a powerful economic shield, protecting its interests and ensuring continued trade on its own terms.

The discussion also touches upon the implications for other major players, such as Australia, the world’s third-largest gold producer.

If a new global trading system emerges based on gold or gold-backed yuan, Australia might find it increasingly difficult to sell its gold externally within the traditional Western financial framework. This could have significant economic impacts for Australia, forcing it to reassess its trade relationships.

In essence, the expert from As Good As Gold believes that China’s potential move towards a gold-backed currency isn’t a hasty reaction, but rather the culmination of years of meticulous long-term planning.

This strategy has already accounted for the evolving global trade dynamics, potential shifts in manufacturing costs, and the vulnerabilities of the current fiat system.

China’s strategic market alliances, technological superiority, and cost advantages are not merely mitigating factors; they are foundational pillars designed to ensure its economic resilience and continued global influence, even as it potentially ushers in a new era of gold-backed trade. This isn’t just about currency; it’s about a potential tectonic shift in global economic power structures.

For a deeper dive into these fascinating insights and to understand the full scope of this potential economic revolution, be sure to watch the full video from As Good As Gold.

https://youtu.be/qafotsBQ6ks

The Government Shutdown, What’s the Big Deal?

The Government Shutdown, What’s the Big Deal?

Heresy Financial:   10-2-2025

The phrase “government shutdown” is back in the news, often accompanied by panic and dire predictions. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the political noise, but the truth is, not all shutdowns are created equal.

In fact, distinguishing the current turmoil from potentially catastrophic economic events is crucial for anyone trying to understand the actual risk level.

Drawing insights from detailed financial analysis, we can cut through the complexity. A government shutdown is essentially the cessation of some or all non-essential government services because Congress has failed to authorize funds to pay employees.

But to truly grasp the stakes, we must recognize that there are three fundamentally different types of shutdowns—each carrying a vastly different economic consequence.

This is the type of shutdown the U.S. currently faces most frequently. It stems from Congress’s failure to pass the necessary appropriations bills to fund the government’s operations for the upcoming fiscal year.

A budget shutdown is essentially a disagreement over how to allocate the remaining, smaller pot of discretionary funds. When this spending authority lapses, non-essential services tied to those funds cease.

As seen in the 2018-2019 shutdown, while frustrating and disruptive, these shutdowns are generally minimal in long-term economic impact. They cause temporary disruptions, short-term market volatility, and delays in government services (like processing permits or reporting economic data), but they do not lead to a default.

While often confused with budget fights, a debt ceiling crisis is fundamentally different and potentially far more dangerous.

The debt ceiling is the statutory limit on how much money the U.S. Treasury can borrow to fulfill existing legal obligations—bills that Congress has already authorized. Think of the debt ceiling as the limit on your credit card, whereas the budget is the argument over how much you spend this month.

When the government hits the debt ceiling, it can no longer borrow money to pay its bills (including payments to bondholders). While Congress almost always raises or suspends this limit to avoid catastrophe, the risks associated with a true debt ceiling shutdown (a technical default) are immense.

In short, a budget shutdown is a skirmish over future spending; a debt ceiling shutdown is a massive crisis concerning the government’s ability to pay past debts.

The third type of shutdown is thankfully rare, historical, and catastrophic: the currency failure shutdown.

This occurs when a government becomes unable to pay its bills because its currency is no longer accepted. This goes far beyond budget gridlock; it signifies a fundamental loss of confidence in the nation’s monetary system, often triggered by hyperinflation or severe political instability.

This scenario typically leads to regime change, a complete monetary reset, or the adoption of a different currency structure.

While fascinating to consider in a historical context, it bears no resemblance to the current political disagreements.

It is undeniably frustrating to watch Congress repeatedly stumble toward these fiscal deadlines. However, the video analysis offers a crucial philosophical takeaway: the gridlock is intentional.

The U.S. system of checks and balances was specifically designed to make decision-making difficult. By dividing power and requiring broad consensus, the founders sought to prevent the concentration of authority and safeguard against tyranny or rapid, unwise government action.

While this structure often results in inefficiencies and frustrating delays, it is a feature designed to prevent catastrophic outcomes. We may lament the temporary closure of national parks, but the difficulty in passing legislation acts as a permanent brake on runaway power.

When you hear warnings about an impending government shutdown, remember to ask which type is being discussed.

Currently, we endure budget shutdowns—a painful but temporary disruption resulting from necessary political negotiations over discretionary funds. The high-stakes drama involves temporary salary freezes and service halts, but it is a relatively stable part of the American political process.

The true fiscal calamity remains the debt ceiling shutdown, an event that carries the potential for global economic devastation, but which has historically been averted at the last minute.

For further detailed analysis on government shutdowns and financial markets, we recommend checking out the insights provided by Heresy Financial.

https://youtu.be/E3IOr4jgCCs

https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/10/02/heresy-financial-the-government-shutdown-whats-the-big-deal/

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Morning 10-2-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

US Shutdown Day 2: What’s Happening, Who’s Affected & Why It Matters

Services falter, economic losses mount, and continuity of governance looms as a central test of American institutional strength.

What Operations Continue — and What Doesn’t

• Essential services such as Social Security payments, Medicare, Medicaid, and the U.S. Postal Service (which is funded outside annual appropriations) remain operational. 
• The federal courts announced they can sustain operations through October 17, 2025 under existing resources. 
• Public health & research agencies face deep cuts: ~41% of Health & Human Services staff will be furloughed, and institutions like NIH and CDC are heavily affected.
• Cybersecurity functions are compromised — CISA has furloughed most of its workforce, weakening defense of critical infrastructure. 
• Hospitals, particularly in rural or underserved areas, risk losing federal funding via Medicaid and other support programs. 
• Air traffic and aviation impacts include the halting of new air traffic controller training, potential delays in safety inspections, and strain on travel infrastructure. 

Economic Fallout & Ripple Effects

• A White House memo projects up to $15 billion in GDP lost per week during the shutdown, with potential unemployment rises. 
• The CBO previously estimated that extended shutdowns suppress private-sector demand, as furloughed workers lose income and cut spending. 
• Historic precedent: The 2018–19 shutdown cost the economy ~$11 billion and shaved growth. 

Could Continuity of Government Be Tested?

Government continuity mechanisms are designed to maintain essential functions despite funding gaps. But the 2025 shutdown is testing those lines:

• Federal law (the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019) ensures retroactive pay for furloughed employees once funding is restored. 
• But many federal contractors do not get back pay and may suffer permanent layoffs. 
• The ability of agencies to suspend non-essential operations, redirect funds, or invoke emergency powers will strain interagency cooperation—and may empower the executive branch.

Tie-In With Deeper Structural Shifts

• The shutdown undermines the United States’ reputation for institutional stability. As the world watches, it bolsters arguments for alternative power centers—nations and blocs that claim they can deliver governance without such breakdowns.
• In times of uncertainty, capital and trust migrate. Investors may question dollar-based assets and U.S. debt, accelerating interest in non-USD reserves, alternative financial systems, or gold-anchored institutions.
• As agencies pause, new opportunities emerge for states, private actors, and foreign powers to fill gaps—shaping parallel systems of influence, trade, and financial alignment.

Why This Matters / Key Takeaway

On Day 2, the U.S. shutdown is no longer just a political showdown. It is a stress test of governance, credibility, and global authority. The resulting economic scars, institutional paralysis, and capital uncertainty create openings for shifts in financial order—just the kind of restructuring many talk about, but few expect to see so clearly.

This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.

@ Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources:

• The Guardian – What does the US government shutdown mean for everyday people The Guardian

• Modern Diplomacy (via your link)

• Reuters – Courts can sustain operations through October 17 Reuters

• Reuters – Health agency furloughs Reuters

• Washington Post – CISA and cybersecurity furloughs The Washington Post

• Axios – Hospital funding in jeopardy Axios

• Reuters – Air traffic controller training halted Reuters

• Politico – White House memo on GDP loss Politico

• CBO – Potential effects of a federal government shutdown Congressional Budget Office

• The Guardian / historic shutdown cost The Guardian+1

• Wikipedia – 2025 U.S. federal government shutdown Wikipedia

• Wikipedia – Government Employee Fair Treatment Act Wikipedia

• House.gov / impact summary tonko.house.gov

~~~~~~~~~

US Upgrades Air Power on Korean Peninsula
Strategic modernization in East Asia exposes deeper shifts in power, alliances, and global defense finances.

Modernization Amid Rising Tensions
• The U.S. is retiring aging A-10 aircraft in South Korea and upgrading F-16 jets with new avionics to improve survivability and mission precision. 
• Drone operations are expanding: a drone squadron in South Korea has been established, and U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Marine drones are now deployed in Japan for intelligence and deterrence roles. 
• The move occurs in tandem with rebalancing in Japan, where F-35A and F-15EX jets are being phased into Japan’s combat fleet. 

Why It Matters
• The U.S. is signaling its continuing commitment to deterrence in Northeast Asia, reinforcing alliances as North Korea advances missile and nuclear capabilities. 
• Upgrading capabilities in an allied theater extends U.S. logistical, strategic, and financial burden—yet it also projects influence and anchors security partnerships in a contested region.
• The modernization supports U.S. goals of maintaining forward-deployed dominance, which has downstream effects on trade routes, supply chains, and regional stability.

Global & Financial Implications in a Restructuring Era

🔹 Military Spending & Fiscal Strain
• Funding modernization is expensive. As defense budgets swell, opportunity cost appears in social programs, infrastructure, and domestic priorities.
• In the context of government shutdowns, volatile debt, and financial stress, the willingness to sustain heavy defense outlays may be tested.

🔹 Realignment of Defense Influence
• Nations in Southeast and Northeast Asia witness these upgrades as both reassurance and pressure. Some may shift procurement or alignments (Russia, China, India) in response.
• Competitors may respond: China could accelerate naval or air development in disputed areas (South China Sea, Taiwan Strait) to counterbalance U.S. presence.

🔹 Infrastructure, Bases & Local Economies
• Bases in South Korea, Japan, and allied outposts see upgrades, spurring contracts, defense manufacturing, and local economic activity tied to U.S. defense industrial complex.
• Those infrastructure investments carry long-term financial commitments and create dependencies.

Key Takeaway
U.S. upgrades in air power aren’t just about military deterrence. They are nodes in a larger architecture of global influence, financial marking, and infrastructure dependence. As the world edges toward a multipolar order, control of the skies becomes central to who controls the future.

This is not just politics — global finance restructuring before our eyes.

@ Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Source: Newsweek – US Upgrades Air Power on Korean Peninsula Newsweek

~~~~~~~~~

China Uses UN to Advance Biggest Territorial Claim
China leverages the United Nations to bolster its sovereignty narrative over Taiwan — a move with deep geopolitical and financial implications.

China’s Legal Play at the U.N.

  ● The Chinese government issued a white paper at the U.N. General Assembly, asserting that UN Resolution 2758 “once and for all” settled China’s representation, and implicitly extended its sovereignty claim over Taiwan.
  ● Beijing claims that the resolution, passed in 1971, supports the idea that Taiwan is a province of China, and that “two Chinas” or “one China, one Taiwan” are illegitimate. 
  ● Taiwan’s government and its de facto diplomatic representatives (AIT) reject that interpretation, emphasizing that 2758 did not expressly address Taiwan’s political status. 

Responses & Regional Ripple Effects

  ● Taiwan condemned the white paper, accusing China of deliberate distortion of treaties and documents to justify coercive claims.
  ● Recent reporting indicates Taiwan views China’s reinterpretation of 2758 as an attempt to manufacture a legal basis for future aggression. 
  ● Observers note that the U.N. General Assembly’s decision did not adjudicate the status of Taiwan as a state; it resolved which government represents “China” at the U.N. 
  ● In parallel, China continues to apply pressure via grey-zone tools — military drills, diplomatic isolation, media influence, and legal arguments — to shift the status quo.

Larger Stakes: Power, Influence & Financial Leverage

🔹 Weaponizing International Institutions
China’s use of the UN as a venue for sovereignty claims illustrates how great powers can co-opt multilateral institutions to validate expansionist agendas. This undermines the credibility of neutrality in global systems.

🔹 Erosion of Norms & Precedents
If states succeed in stretching legal interpretations to justify territorial claims, international law becomes malleable. That could embolden other powers to challenge borders under nominal legal cover.

🔹 Financial & Strategic Impacts
Countries aligned with China may begin to mirror its use of legal and institutional pressure. Capital flows, trade agreements, and investment patterns may increasingly favor states that accept such interpretations or stay silent.

🔹 Questioning U.S. Authority & Rule Enforcement
As China asserts dominance in key institutions, American leverage through institutions like the U.N. wanes. Its ability to uphold rules, impose sanctions, or shape UN bodies may diminish over time.

Why This Matters / Key Takeaway

China’s push to reframe Taiwan’s status at the U.N. is more than a legal argument — it is a structural move in the reshaping of global power. By bending institutions to its will, Beijing challenges the mechanisms through which rules, norms, and legitimacy are maintained. In doing so, it accelerates shifts in financial, diplomatic, and institutional architecture — exactly the kind of transformation that signals we are witnessing global finance restructuring.

This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.

@ Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources & Further Reading:

• Newsweek – China Uses UN to Advance Biggest Territorial Claim Newsweek

• Reuters – Taiwan says China trying to create legal basis for attack via misinterpretation of UN Resolution 2758 Reuters

• U.S.–Asia Law Institute – Analysis: UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 Does Not Establish Beijing’s “One China” as Fact U.S.-Asia Law Institute

• Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Rebuttal to PRC claims on Taiwan Taiwan MOFA

• RUSI / policy papers – Taiwan’s response to China’s grey zone tactics RUSI

• Academia (arXiv) – Cross-strait information influence networks arXiv

~~~~~~~~~
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Thank you Dinar Recaps

Who Do We Hold Accountable?

Who Do We Hold Accountable?

The loss and squandering of non-oil revenues in numbers: Billions And Abundant Resources Are Being Swallowed Up By Corruption Networks.

Baghdad Today – Baghdad  The issue of non-oil revenues in Iraq is one of the most important issues, revealing the depth of the structural dependence on oil.

The state treasury remains almost entirely tied to oil revenues, while other resources are supposed to be the primary tributary to ensuring financial stability.

Constitutional deliberations indicate that excessive reliance on a single resource weakens the principle of economic justice and disrupts the mechanisms for equitable wealth distribution.

According to Ministry of Finance data, the percentage of non-oil revenues rose from 7 percent in 2023 to 9 percent in 2024, and then to 10 percent by July 2025.

These are official figures, which economist Nabil al-Marsoumi asserts on his Facebook page, monitored by Baghdad Today, are the most accurate and reliable. However, they remain modest when compared to the potential in sectors such as tourism, ports, and border crossings.

Monitoring data indicates that this gap does not reflect a shortage of resources, but rather a crisis in collection mechanisms.

In the religious tourism sector, one of the most prominent potential sources of income, millions of visitors enter Iraq annually, with the Arbaeen pilgrimage exceeding four million foreign visitors. According to preliminary research data, average spending ranges between one and two billion dollars annually, while reports indicate direct and indirect revenues exceeding nine billion dollars in 2023.

However, the treasury's share of these funds is extremely limited due to the vast informal economy and weak tax collection. Constitutional law experts argue that the absence of strict tax legislation on tourism services deprives the state of legitimate entitlements and leaves it hostage to the informal market.

 This limits direct revenues to a few tens of millions of dollars, while possible collection through smart mechanisms could reach hundreds of millions.

 Field studies indicate that this shortcoming is not related to weak demand, but rather to the absence of institutional tools capable of fair collection.

Border crossings and customs represent a stark example of the discrepancy between reality and potential.

According to various legal estimates, border crossings should constitute the state's second-largest source of revenue after oil, but corruption and fraud consume a significant portion of the revenue.

 Official customs revenues in 2025 amounted to approximately 2.7 trillion dinars, with expectations of reaching 3 trillion by the end of the year, equivalent to approximately $2.3 billion.

However, international oversight reports indicate that customs losses could reach as much as 30 percent of revenues. If this loss were eliminated through comprehensive automation and the integration of collection with electronic payment, the proceeds could easily rise to $2.9 billion annually.

Comparative analyses indicate that Iraq is the only regional exception, losing a third of its customs revenues despite its extensive network of border crossings.

Iraqi ports, in turn, present a similar picture. According to critical readings of constitutional jurisprudence, port revenues fall within sovereign resources that are supposed to be centrally managed in accordance with the principle of transparency.

In the first quarter of 2025, ports generated revenues exceeding 314 billion dinars, equivalent to approximately $240 million over three months, meaning annual revenues approach $1 billion.

However, this figure remains below actual potential, as improving handling management, increasing operational efficiency, and linking electronic invoicing with customs could increase revenues to $1.15 billion annually.

 Institutional estimates indicate that Iraq is losing a portion of its resources due to the lack of a unified port collection system, which further widens the gap between reality and potential.

When compared to the Gulf states, the magnitude of the difference becomes clear. Research studies indicate that Saudi Arabia, through Vision 2030, has succeeded in increasing the contribution of non-oil revenues to more than 40 percent of the budget by developing tourism, imposing a value-added tax, and developing non-oil industries.

The UAE has transformed its economy into a global hub for aviation, tourism, real estate, and financial services, until the oil contribution declined to less than 30 percent of GDP.

Qatar, on the other hand, has harnessed liquefied natural gas revenues while simultaneously building service and investment sectors that have boosted sustainable revenues.

According to contemporary intellectual approaches, these experiences would not have been possible without stable institutions and accumulated experience in managing public resources.

Iraq, by contrast, has remained stagnant despite possessing similar, and perhaps even broader, assets, such as massive religious tourism, extensive border crossings, and strategic seaports. In-depth legal analyses confirm that structural obstacles have prevented the exploitation of these resources, most notably administrative and financial corruption, which causes significant revenue leakage; the absence of a long-term strategic vision, which renders short-term policies hostage to political consensus; weak infrastructure, a widespread informal economy; and political and security instability, which undermines investor confidence and prevents stable economic policies.

Comparative experience demonstrates that these obstacles are not inevitable, as other countries in the region have overcome them through gradual and cumulative reforms.

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

In conclusion, Iraq does not lack resources, but rather the institutional will to transform them into actual revenues for the state treasury. While the official share of non-oil revenues has risen to 10 percent, it remains modest compared to the 40 percent achieved by Saudi Arabia or the 30 percent achieved by the UAE.

If Iraq succeeds in overcoming the obstacles of corruption and red tape and adopts a genuine strategic plan, it could double its non-oil resources to nearly $5 billion annually in the short term, and raise their share to more than 20 percent of total revenues within a few years.

According to intersecting political-economic estimates, this path is contingent on radical reforms that redefine the relationship between the state and the economy and free public finances from the grip of oil rents.

Source: Baghdad Today Monitoring and Follow-up Department  https://baghdadtoday.news/284288-.html 

For current and reliable Iraqi news please visit:  https://www.bondladyscorner.com

“Tidbits From TNT” Thursday Morning 10-2-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  $6.1B boost: Iraq signs 64 partnership contracts for industry

Iraq’s Industrial Week kicked off Wednesday at Baghdad International Fair, bringing together local and foreign companies from both the public and private sectors.

At the opening ceremony, Industry and Minerals Minister Khaled Battal highlighted that the government has completed more than 86% of its industrial program, and laid the groundwork for 27 new factories.

He also pointed out that the ministry signed 64 partnership contracts worth 9 trillion dinars ($6.1 billion) with local and foreign investors in strategic industries, including fertilizers, phosphates, iron, and steel. Talks are ongoing for an additional 33 contracts.

Noting that the week-long fair will continue through October 7, Battal described it as an economic and social platform that connects industrialists with policymakers, ''helping obstacles removal to industrial projects.”

“Key challenges facing national industry include shortages of electricity and gas, border crossing issues, and aging factories,” the minister underlined, adding that Iraq has achieved self-sufficiency in cement, producing over 37 million tons in 2024.

Production has also increased for chlorine used in water treatment, electrical transformers, and other industrial goods.

Meanwhile, the General Company for Iron and Steel displayed its products at the fair. Marketing Director Mohammad Subih emphasized that Iraqi rebar production matches European standards, highlighting that the ISO-certified plant produces up to 600,000 tons annually, with plans to export to neighboring countries.    link

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

Tishwash:  Iraqi banks between the "dollar transfers complex" and the "dream of a regional financial center": A new vision for the changing Middle East economy

In a region experiencing major transformations, from economic corridor projects to reconstruction plans, from geopolitical shifts to the so-called "New Middle East" plans, Iraq finds itself facing both a historic opportunity and fateful challenges.

A bold banking and economic vision is needed here, seeking to transform Iraqi banks from marginal players to key players in economic decision-making and building an attractive investment environment.

A rapidly changing Middle East

Economic expert Saif al-Halfi told Iraq Observer that the Middle East is currently undergoing profound transformations, including mega-projects and new economic corridors. Baghdad stands at a historic gateway that requires a fundamental shift in the way the financial sector is managed. What is required is not just an injection of capital or the introduction of modern payment systems, but rather the establishment of an integrated legal and institutional vision that protects financing and opens the way for development initiatives.

 Only then can Iraq capitalize on its strategic geographic location, the Faw Port, the Development Road project, and its oil, gas, and human resources to become a financial and commercial hub at the heart of the region.

The first challenge: Capital and institutional reform.

The first step Al-Halfi refers to is raising the capital of Iraqi banks and strengthening their resilience to risks. This is a plan the government has implemented in cooperation with the Central Bank and with the assistance of the global consulting firm Oliver Wyman. The decision was made to raise the capital of banks to 400 billion dinars. Although this decision appears to be an accounting measure, it lays a new foundation for building a stronger banking sector that is more integrated with the regional and international economies.

He adds that institutional reform, the dismantling of large shareholdings, and the introduction of automation and modern systems are not sufficient on their own, but they are an indispensable condition for transitioning from the stage of survival to the stage of competition and expansion.

The Second Challenge: From Dollar Captivity to Diversified Financing

Al-Halfi acknowledges that banking activity in Iraq still relies almost entirely on foreign remittances in dollars. This reality makes banks more like large exchange houses than true financial institutions. International experience confirms that banks only flourish when they transform into "real financiers" of the national economy through lending and adopting diverse strategies.

The economic expert suggests that expansion should be based on five main paths: "The first is personal and housing loans to meet citizens' needs. The second is financing small and medium-sized enterprises, as they are the largest engine of employment and growth.

 This is in addition to loans to large companies, especially those listed on the Iraq Stock Exchange or seeking to be listed. Syndicated loans to finance oil, electricity, refinery, and residential projects, provided the Central Bank is flexible in granting licenses.

Fifth, financing international trade, including letters of credit and participation in foreign projects such as oil refining in more active markets." These mechanisms, if implemented boldly, will open the door to a qualitative transformation in the Iraqi economy, away from the "dollar complex." 

Challenge 3: The Electronic Payment Revolution

In parallel with financing and lending, electronic payment is emerging as a fundamental pillar of the new financial world. Al-Halfi believes that Iraqi banks must accelerate the provision of modern and diverse banking products, such as credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards, charge cards, and even secured credit cards. Diversifying these products will not only contribute to enhancing financial inclusion and reducing reliance on cash, but will also enhance the financial system's ability to combat money laundering and boost investor and customer confidence alike.

What is required of the Iraqi government

however, is that banks alone cannot fight this battle. What is required, according to the economic expert, is to expedite the enactment of modern laws to protect loans and electronic transactions, in addition to establishing specialized banking courts to quickly resolve disputes, and establishing an expedited judiciary to ensure the stability of transactions.

He stresses the importance of establishing a credit guarantee scheme for small and medium-sized loans, in which the state participates in guaranteeing loans to reduce financing risks, thus encouraging banks to lend instead of relying on external transfers.

The historic opportunity

presents a mix of challenges and opportunities. On the one hand, Iraqi banks face the accumulation of overreliance on the dollar, weak capital, and delayed legislation. On the other hand, Iraq possesses a unique geographical location and massive strategic projects, as well as natural and human resources that could transform it into a regional financial center if exploited wisely.

Al-Halfi poses a pivotal question: Will Iraqi banks remain captive to remittances, or will they transform into genuine financial institutions that contribute to building a diversified and robust economy?

The answer, it seems, cannot be delayed. Today's Middle East does not wait for the hesitant, and if Iraq does not race against time to reform its banking sector, it may find itself excluded from the map of the new Middle East.  link

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

Tishwash:  Jordan-Iraq Bank branch opened in Erbil

Jordan-Iraq Bank is expanding its branch network with the opening of a new branch in Erbil.

In a strategic move that reflects Jordan Bank Group's vision to strengthen its regional presence and consolidate its position as a leading financial institution, the bank announced the opening of its new branch in Erbil, the capital of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region.

Saleh Hamad said the opening is part of a well-designed expansion plan aimed at establishing the bank's presence in the Iraqi market and expanding its banking services to meet customer needs according to the highest international standards.

The Erbil branch provides a qualitative addition to the Bank of Jordan's regional corridor as it provides a comprehensive financial system that supports economic activity and opens up new opportunities for sustainable growth.

The Group is also committed to contributing to the development of the banking environment in Iraq and financial development through advanced digital solutions that improve the quality of service and support the development of the business environment in Iraq.

Erbil is gaining strategic importance as an active economic center and a major gateway for trade and investment, making it a key stage in the bank's plans to expand its presence in Iraq.

This expansion will allow for wider coverage of key markets and provide comprehensive banking services, strengthening Jordan Bank's position as a leading banking institution in the region that can empower various economic sectors to access advanced financial solutions, increase investment opportunities and revitalize the business environment.

Jordan Bank's expansion plans are based on a rich banking heritage and strong experience spanning more than 65 years, which has contributed to and will continue to build a comprehensive financial group with an extensive network of branches in Jordan, Palestine, Syria, Bahrain and Iraq.

The Bank continues to invest in the development of advanced digital systems, positioning itself as a leading regional financial institution capable of managing banking transformation, strengthening economic integration and establishing itself as a driver of development and stimulation of growth locally and regionally  link

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

Mot:  I Used to Worry bout it!!! --- Now ~~~

Mot:  Yeppers - My Peoples!!!!  

Gold Back in the Game: Why More Than 30 States Are Moving Now | JP Cortez

Gold Back in the Game: Why More Than 30 States Are Moving Now | JP Cortez

Miles Franklin Media:  10-12025

Andy Schectman, CEO of Miles Franklin Precious Metals, speaks with Jp Cortez, Executive Director of the Sound Money Defense League, about the growing state-level revolt against the U.S. dollar and the push to restore gold and silver as real money.

Jp explains why nearly 70% of U.S. states are advancing pro-gold and silver legislation, and how Wyoming and Utah are building state gold reserves.

He also breaks down federal efforts to audit America’s gold reserves, the new Silver Act, and the risks of financial surveillance in so-called “sound money” bills. This conversation dives into the future of money, the role of sound money in protecting wealth, and whether states are quietly leading a monetary rebellion against fiat money.

In this episode of Little by Little:

70% of U.S. states now considering pro-gold and silver legislation

Wyoming passes $10M gold reserve; Utah invests $180M

Why some states are reimposing taxes on precious metals

The push to audit America’s gold and refine coin-melt bars

The Silver Act and why silver shortages matter now

Florida’s “sound money” law

Risk of surveillance

Are states leading a quiet rebellion against the dollar?

00:00 Coming Up

01:19 Introduction Jp Cortez and the Sound Money Defense League

 04:20 The Historical Context of America's Monetary System

05:13 State Legislation & the Push for Sound Money

08:35 Challenges & Controversies in Sound Money Legislation

18:17 The Role of Gold in the US Government's Balance Sheet

 21:01 Florida's Controversial Sound Money Bill

24:35 Tax Implications on Precious Metals

24:43 Legislative Bills & Digital Systems

24:58 Privacy Concerns with Digital Transactions

25:49 Government Involvement in Monetary Systems

29:55 Generational Divide: Gold vs. Crypto

34:04 Federal Legislation & the Silver Act

38:30 Best Case Scenario for Gold & Silver

44:10 Legal Tender & the Future of Fiat Currencies

 47:32 Gold Reserve Transparency Act

49:31 Conclusion & Final Thoughts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mHFjS_s134

Countries are Canceling Treasuries for Gold as US Revaluation Panic Grows

Countries are Canceling Treasuries for Gold as US Revaluation Panic Grows

Sean Foo:   9-20-2025

For decades, the US dollar has stood as the undisputed monarch of global finance, its status as the world’s primary reserve currency underpinning stability and shaping international trade. But what if this reign is quietly approaching its twilight?

A compelling video from Sean Foo offers a deep dive into the accelerating “de-dollarization” trend, painting a picture of a world on the cusp of a profound economic shift.

Sean Foo highlights that the erosion of the dollar’s dominance isn’t a sudden event, but rather the cumulative effect of several powerful forces. Geopolitical tensions, particularly the rising friction between major powers, have incentivized nations to seek alternatives to the dollar-centric system.

Add to this the disruptive force of trade wars – vividly exemplified by the Trump Administration’s tariffs – which have fractured established supply chains and cooled international demand for the dollar.

Simultaneously, persistent fiscal mismanagement within the US, leading to ballooning deficits, has further undermined confidence. When a nation’s financial house isn’t in order, the stability of its currency comes under scrutiny on the global stage.

This isn’t just theoretical; it’s playing out in real-time. China, for instance, is actively spearheading the shift by increasingly conducting its trade and financial transactions in its own currency, the renminbi (RMB), rather than the US dollar.

This move, accelerated by the very trade wars intended to pressure China, demonstrates a strategic pivot away from dollar dependency.

The impact is palpable. The US economy itself is showing signs of instability – think payroll declines, delayed economic data, and increasingly erratic government behavior – all of which erode investor confidence.

 The numbers don’t lie: the dollar index plummeted nearly 11% in the first half of 2025, marking its worst performance since the historic collapse of the Bretton Woods system in 1973. This is not merely a dip; it’s a tremor.

Amidst this weakening dollar and a landscape of rising tariffs and projected $2 trillion fiscal deficits in 2025, central banks worldwide are doing something significant. They are actively reducing their holdings of US Treasuries – long considered the world’s safest asset – and conspicuously increasing their gold reserves.

Gold, the ancient store of value, is re-emerging as the preferred safe haven, signaling a historic shift in global financial strategy.

Interestingly, Sean Foo also explores a drastic measure the US government could take: a gold revaluation. Given the vast disparity between the book value and market value of US gold reserves, such a move could unlock nearly $1 trillion in liquidity. This “easy money” could provide short-term relief for US fiscal and monetary policy, fueling inflation-driven GDP growth.

However, this path is fraught with peril. A gold revaluation would be an implicit admission of the dollar’s fragile condition, potentially accelerating its decline.

Furthermore, it could unintentionally strengthen China’s financial position, as China is rumored to hold vast, potentially underreported, gold reserves. The US faces a challenging dilemma: embrace this short-term liquidity and risk undermining the dollar’s long-term status, or avoid it and battle escalating fiscal crises head-on.

The implications of these shifts are profound. We are witnessing a historic recalibration of global reserves, a re-evaluation of dollar holdings, and a resurgence of gold’s role in the new economic landscape. For investors, policymakers, and anyone concerned about the future of money, understanding these dynamics is crucial.

The world is moving on from a singular reliance on the US dollar. The question is no longer if things are changing, but how fast, and what the ultimate destination will be.

https://youtu.be/_M_H7fE7gFc

Shutdown Or Not, Government Dysfunction = Higher Gold Prices

Shutdown Or Not, Government Dysfunction = Higher Gold Prices

Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black)  September 30, 2025

All eyes are on Washington to see if the government shuts down when the clock strikes midnight tonight.

Funny thing is, most people aren’t really going to care—because all of the “essential” services will keep running. (Which makes you wonder: why do non-essential government services exist on the taxpayer’s dime in the first place?)

But today is also the end of the fiscal year. And based on the data, we can see that the US will end the fiscal year with around $37.5 trillion in debt. That means, for Fiscal Year 2025, the debt will have increased by another $1.8 trillion.

Taken as a whole, this is an obvious testament to why foreign governments and central banks are rapidly losing confidence in the US government.

It doesn’t even matter whether the government shuts down tonight— it is the fact that it always comes so close. That Congress can’t even manage to pass a basic budget.

And the “solution” on the table is just another short-term patch— a continuing resolution that keeps the government funded for less than two months, until November 21st.

America looks like exactly what it is: a dysfunctional government that can’t even pass a budget.

Frankly, it’s embarrassing.

On top of that, you’ve got this $37.5 trillion debt growing by leaps and bounds—faster than the US economy and faster than tax revenue.

At a certain point, these foreign governments and central banks, who collectively own trillions upon trillions of dollars worth of US government bonds, start wondering: why should I continue to own these securities? Why continue to lend money to the US government?

They can’t even pass a routine budget, let alone the kind of budget that would actually reassure foreign governments and central banks—a truly controversial one that makes deep, necessary cuts to runaway spending.

Then there’s another problem—one that isn’t new. It started under the Bush administration, Obama elevated it, and Biden perfected it: the weaponization of the US dollar, the financial system, and US Treasury bonds.

This gives foreign governments and central banks obvious concern: if they do something the US doesn’t like, they’re going to be frozen out of the dollar system—out of their Treasury holdings, and out of dollar-denominated assets altogether.

And these are all reasons why we believe, over the long run, gold will continue to march higher: central banks will continue to buy gold as an alternative to US dollars.

Why gold?

It’s an independent asset. It’s not controlled by any government. No country is worried that America will freeze its gold holdings. Millions of troy ounces of bars and bullion stored around the world can’t be frozen with the click of a button.

Gold is universally accepted by every other country and central bank. There’s a global market for it. And it’s an asset class large enough to absorb billions of dollars— or even tens, or hundreds of billions—over time.

You can’t say that about most other asset classes.

Gold has already had an astonishing run—especially this year. But we think that, over the long run, as more foreign central banks allocate an increasing percentage of their strategic reserves into gold instead of dollars, that excess demand will continue to push the gold price much higher.

Gold is like anything else—subject to the laws of supply and demand. Demand for physical gold by governments and central banks around the world has been very strong.

And based on the data we’re seeing, that continues to be the case.

The Chinese central bank has bought another 21 tons of gold this year, marking ten consecutive months of purchases.

And it’s not just China. It’s all over the world— Poland, Turkey, Czech Republic, Kazakhstan and many other countries are buying literal tons of gold.

In fact, 95% of central bank reserve managers said they expect global official gold holdings to increase over the next 12 months, according to the 2025 World Gold Council Central Bank Gold Reserves Survey.

There are, however, short-term price risks. For example, the gold price is also impacted by demand for jewelry, as well as industrial use.

Given current record-high prices, jewelry demand is much weaker.

And that can have an adverse impact on gold prices.

Another factor to consider is supply. At a certain point, mining companies are going to take advantage of these high prices and ratchet up production, eventually resulting in oversupply in the market. That, too, could weigh on gold prices.

But we think these are shorter-term factors that don’t change anything about the long-term driver of gold prices—and that is central bank demand.

What we are seeing literally today— government shutdowns and $1.8 trillion deficits—just underscores how widespread that central bank demand is—and why it simply isn’t going away.

To your freedom,   James Hickman  Co-Founder, Schiff Sovereign LLC

 PS: While gold has hit all time highs, the share prices of many top quality gold producers has lagged far behind. That is starting to change, but there is still opportunity before the gap closes.

https://www.schiffsovereign.com/trends/shutdown-or-not-government-dysfunction-higher-gold-prices-153626/?inf_contact_key=5557406d6dc23be4cf3a5dc84a0ee5f534bc1cc172df786974c5dfeac18f0bfe