Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Afternoon 1-15-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

CLARITY Act Stalls as Crypto Industry Warns It Shields Banks, Not Innovation

Regulatory clarity promised — institutional protection delivered?

Overview

• The Digital Asset Market Structure and Clarity Act failed to advance today after a Senate Banking Committee delay.

• Crypto industry leaders, including Coinbase, argue the bill protects banks more than crypto users.

• Regulatory uncertainty continues, keeping digital assets in limbo heading into 2026.

• The delay underscores a deeper divide between Wall Street priorities and decentralized finance realities.

What Happened Today

• The Senate Banking Committee postponed its scheduled markup of the CLARITY Act rather than moving it forward.

• No committee vote occurred, and the bill did not advance to the Senate floor.

• Lawmakers cited unresolved concerns and ongoing negotiations over the bill’s structure and scope.

Despite earlier momentum, today’s delay signals that consensus has not been reached on how crypto markets should be governed.

Why the Crypto Industry Is Pushing Back

Coinbase and other digital asset firms have been increasingly vocal, warning that the CLARITY Act:

• Reinforces bank dominance over custody, settlement, and market access

• Limits innovation by favoring existing financial intermediaries

• Creates regulatory hurdles for crypto-native firms while easing compliance paths for large banks

Industry critics argue the bill’s framework repackages crypto activity into legacy banking rails, undermining decentralization rather than clarifying it.

Banks vs Crypto: The Core Tension

At the heart of the debate is who benefits from “clarity.”

• Banks gain clear jurisdictional authority and compliance pathways

• Crypto firms face higher costs, licensing burdens, and operational constraints

• Retail users risk being pushed back into permissioned, centralized systems

This has fueled claims that the CLARITY Act is less about innovation and more about institutional control of digital finance.

Why It Matters

• Regulatory delays prolong uncertainty for markets, builders, and investors

• Wall Street-first frameworks risk slowing U.S. competitiveness in digital assets

• Crypto adoption may migrate offshore to jurisdictions with clearer, more balanced rules

Instead of clarity, today’s outcome reinforces the reality that digital asset regulation remains politically contested.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For readers holding foreign currency in anticipation of a Global Reset:

• Regulatory stagnation weakens confidence in U.S.-based digital rails

• Bank-centric crypto policy favors fiat preservation, not revaluation catalysts

• Alternative settlement systems abroad may gain momentum faster

• True value shifts tend to follow open systems, not tightly controlled financial structures

In short, currency realignment favors flexibility and neutrality, not regulatory capture.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1 — Monetary Control: Governments remain focused on controlling rails, not liberating value

• Pillar 2 — Infrastructure: Innovation continues outside traditional banking frameworks

This is not just a crypto bill — it’s a signal about who will control money in the next system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Investors.com – Senate Delays CLARITY Act Markup After Industry Pushback

• Cointelegraph – Crypto Leaders Warn CLARITY Act Favors Banks Over Blockchain Innovation

~~~~~~~~~~

BRICS vs ASEAN in 2026 Shows Why Alignment May Backfire

When joining a bloc increases risk instead of protection

Overview

• ASEAN’s growing association with BRICS is triggering tariff exposure rather than insulation.

• Indonesia’s full BRICS membership and partnership roles for Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam increase geopolitical pressure.

• U.S. tariff threats highlight the costs of perceived alignment in a polarized global system.

• Strategic autonomy, not bloc loyalty, emerges as ASEAN’s core vulnerability in 2026.

Key Developments at a Glance

• Tariff escalation risk: Indonesia faces potential U.S. tariffs exceeding 40%, explicitly linked to BRICS alignment.

• Regional spillover: Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam are already confronting elevated tariff regimes tied to geopolitical positioning.

• Non-alignment under strain: ASEAN’s long-standing neutral posture is increasingly difficult to maintain amid great-power rivalry.

• Currency implications: Discussions around BRICS-linked settlement systems raise concerns about financial sovereignty rather than protection.

How BRICS–ASEAN Dynamics Expose Tariff Vulnerability

At the center of the BRICS vs ASEAN debate is trade exposure. The U.S. has signaled that deeper BRICS alignment may invite punitive tariffs, reframing economic cooperation as a geopolitical liability. For export-driven Southeast Asian economies, this creates an asymmetric risk:

• Limited upside from BRICS trade frameworks, which remain loosely structured

• Immediate downside from Western trade retaliation, which is swift and enforceable

This imbalance highlights how alignment without institutional safeguards can backfire quickly.

Structural Dependence and the BRICS Currency Question

ASEAN’s challenge in 2026 is less about military strength and more about structural dependence:

• Supply chains, digital standards, data sovereignty, and payment rails increasingly define power

• BRICS-linked currency or settlement systems may reduce flexibility, not enhance it

• Smaller economies risk becoming rule-takers rather than rule-makers in multipolar arrangements

The push toward alternative payment systems introduces new dependencies without clear governance protections.

Why It Matters

• Multipolarity without rules increases friction, not leverage

• ASEAN centrality weakens when bloc alignment overrides strategic neutrality

• Economic coercion replaces diplomacy in trade policy

• Tariffs become tools of signaling, not just commerce

In 2026, alignment choices are no longer symbolic — they are priced directly into trade flows.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For readers holding foreign currencies in anticipation of a Global Reset:

• Tariff pressure erodes currency stability, especially in export-driven economies

• Bloc association does not guarantee protection or revaluation upside

• Currencies gain strength from trade access, not political alignment

• True reset conditions favor flexibility, neutrality, and diversified settlement options

The lesson is clear: currency value follows trade resilience, not bloc membership.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Trade Access Pillar: Open markets matter more than political alignment

• Sovereignty Pillar: Control over settlement, data, and standards defines future power

This is not about choosing sides — it’s about avoiding traps in a fragmented global system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Watcher.Guru – BRICS vs ASEAN in 2026 Shows Why Alignment May Backfire

• Nikkei Asia – Southeast Asia walks tightrope as BRICS expansion tests neutrality

~~~~~~~~~~

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Thursday Afternoon 1-15-26

Iraq Central Bank Monetary policy

Monetary policy in Iraq, through its underlying philosophy, relies on what are known as information-based or signal-driven rules to generate stability in the banking and financial market, in line with local and global economic developments. This approach serves as an alternative to direct intervention in the market and the potential for undesirable divisions and distortions that could negatively impact the effectiveness of financial intermediation. These signal-driven and information-driven methods are based on the Central Bank of Iraq's interest rate, also known as the policy rate .

The Concept

The set of procedures and decisions taken by the Central Bank of Iraq within the framework of achieving its intermediate operational goals, which are to maximize the purchasing power of the Iraqi dinar and to counter inflationary expectations, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the macroeconomy and reflecting this on improving the standard of living in particular.

Goals

The Central Bank of Iraq’s main objectives include achieving stability in domestic prices and working to maintain a stable financial system based on market competition. In line with the aforementioned objectives, the Central Bank works to promote sustainable development, provide job opportunities, and achieve prosperity in Iraq.

Tasks

The Tasks Of The Central Bank Of Iraq Include The Following:

• Formulating and implementing monetary policy in Iraq, including foreign exchange rate policy.

• Possession and management of all of Iraq's official foreign reserves.

• Possession of gold and management of the state's gold reserves.

• Providing advisory and financial services to the government.

• Providing liquidity services to banks.

• Issuance and management of the Iraqi currency.

• Compiling and publishing data related to the banking and financial system and data related to the economy.

• Establish, supervise, and promote effective and sound payment systems.

• Issuing licenses and permits to banks, regulating their operations, and supervising them.

• Combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

Regulations and decisions related to monetary policy operations

These regulations and instructions cover various aspects of banking and financial operations, including guidelines on liquidity management to ensure the stability of the financial system. To manage liquidity and ensure financial system stability, the Central Bank of Iraq issues specific instructions and guidelines to banks and financial institutions. These instructions include:

Determining the required reserve ratio: A specific percentage of bank deposits must be held as a cash reserve at the central bank. This helps control the amount of liquidity available to banks and limits excessive lending.

1. Open market operations: The central bank conducts purchases and sales of government bonds to increase or decrease liquidity in the market. These operations are used to control the amount of money in circulation and thus influence interest rates and inflation.

2. Interest rate management: Setting interest rates on loans and deposits affects the demand for money. A high interest rate reduces borrowing and limits liquidity, while a low interest rate increases borrowing and increases liquidity.

The Following Are The Most Important Instructions Regarding Monetary Policy:

1. Monetary Policy Instructions:

• Interest Rate Management: Regulations pertaining to the setting and review of interest rates that affect the financial system. The interest rate set by the Central Bank of Iraq is currently 5.5%. This decision was made as part of the Central Bank's policies to control inflation and support financial stability in the country. This interest rate is consistent with the Central Bank's ongoing efforts to guide monetary policy in line with domestic and international economic developments.

• Open market operations: These are instructions relating to how the central bank carries out purchases and sales of government bonds to control liquidity.

 The mechanism by which the Central Bank of Iraq conducts purchases and sales of government bonds aims to regulate liquidity in the financial system and control inflation. This mechanism includes the following:

1. Selling government bonds: The central bank sells government bonds to commercial banks and investors to absorb excess liquidity from the market. When investors buy these bonds, the funds are transferred from their accounts at the central bank to the government's account, thus reducing the amount of money in circulation.

2. Purchasing government bonds: When the economy needs increased liquidity, the central bank buys government bonds from the market. This process injects funds back into the banking system, increasing the amount of money available for circulation.

3. Interest rates: Interest rates play a crucial role in these transactions. The set interest rate influences investors' willingness to buy or sell bonds. For example, if the central bank raises interest rates, demand for bonds may increase because the yields become more attractive.

These operations help the central bank achieve its monetary objectives, such as price stability and supporting the national economy, by controlling the liquidity available in the financial system.

2- Reserves Management Regulations:

• Mandatory reserve ratio: Determining the percentage that banks must hold as a cash reserve. It is determined by the Central Bank of Iraq and is currently 18% of current deposits. This ratio means that commercial banks are obligated to hold 18% of their deposits as a cash reserve with the Central Bank, and this reserve cannot be used for lending or investment purposes.

The required reserve ratio is a monetary policy tool used by the central bank to control the amount of money in circulation and to control inflation, as increasing the required reserve ratio reduces the ability of banks to lend, which reduces the amount of money in circulation in the economy, and vice versa.

• Additional reserve measures: In some cases, the central bank may require banks to hold additional reserves as a precautionary measure during times of financial crisis or economic instability.

• Assessing the solvency and liquidity of banks: The central bank continuously monitors the solvency and liquidity of banks to ensure that they have sufficient capital to withstand potential crises.

• Emergency interventions: In cases of instability or financial crises, the central bank may intervene by providing additional facilities to banks to ensure sufficient liquidity is available to support the financial system and prevent its collapse.

These tools help to achieve financial stability, control inflation, and support economic growth in Iraq.

3. Foreign Exchange Regulations:

- Exchange Rate: Instructions relating to the Central Bank's policies for managing the exchange rate of the Iraqi dinar against foreign currencies, which include several key instructions, including :

1. Official Exchange Rate: The Central Bank sets the official exchange rate of the Iraqi dinar against foreign currencies. This rate can change based on economic and political conditions .

2. Market intervention: The central bank can intervene in the foreign exchange market to buy or sell foreign currencies with the aim of stabilizing the exchange rate. This intervention usually occurs during times of high market volatility .

3. Foreign exchange reserve management: The Central Bank works to manage its foreign exchange reserves to ensure that there are sufficient reserves to support the Iraqi dinar in economic or financial emergencies .

4. Issuing monetary policy: This includes adjusting interest rates and issuing other monetary policy tools to influence the supply and demand for the Iraqi dinar and foreign currencies .

5. Exchange market control: The central bank oversees foreign exchange operations to ensure that financial and economic institutions comply with applicable laws and regulations .

6. Promoting Transparency: The central bank seeks to enhance transparency in the foreign exchange market by publishing information and reports related to the exchange rate and policies implemented . These policies change over time based on local and international economic and political conditions .

- Exchange Operations: Rules Regulating The Buying And Selling Of Foreign Currencies By Financial Institutions.

 The regulations governing foreign exchange transactions by financial institutions encompass several key aspects to ensure transparency and market stability. These regulations include :

1. Licenses and registration: Financial institutions must obtain the necessary licenses from the central bank or the relevant regulatory authority to conduct the activity of buying and selling foreign currencies .

2. Compliance with standards: Financial institutions must comply with the standards set by the central bank or regulatory authority, including rules against money laundering and terrorist financing .

3. Oversight and inspection: Regulatory bodies conduct periodic audits and inspections to ensure that organizations comply with relevant laws and regulations. This oversight may include reviewing financial operations and internal procedures .

4. Reporting and Disclosure: Financial institutions are required to submit periodic reports to the central bank or regulatory authority, and provide the required disclosures regarding their activities and transactions in foreign currencies .

5. Limits and restrictions: Regulatory authorities may impose limits on the size of operations or on certain types of transactions to ensure market stability and protect the national economy .

6. Settlement procedures: Financial institutions must follow the specified settlement procedures to ensure that foreign exchange buying and selling transactions are executed accurately and quickly .

7. Risk management: Financial institutions must develop strategies to manage the risks associated with exchange rate volatility, including the use of hedging instruments when appropriate .

8. Customer relations: Financial institutions must provide customers with clear and transparent information regarding exchange rates, fees, and terms related to buying and selling foreign currencies . All these rules aim to ensure the market operates efficiently and fairly, and to protect the economy from potential risks associated with foreign exchange trading .

Tools

In light of the rapid and ever-changing monetary and financial developments worldwide, driven by market needs, the Central Bank of Iraq pursues a monetary policy that keeps pace with these developments. This policy aims to control excess liquidity in banks to manage the money supply and, consequently, curb inflation. The Central Bank relies on two main sets of tools to implement this monetary policy:

 Group 1: Traditional Tools

First: Policy Price

The bank adopted the new monetary policy rate since mid-2023 to be (5.5%) instead of the prevailing rate of previous years, which is based on a set of indicators that keep pace with global developments and financial risks surrounding the country.

Second: Open Market Operations

The Open Market Operations Office was established at this bank in 2023 (previously operating as a department within the Financial Operations and Debt Management Division). It undertakes several key tasks within the framework of monetary policy, including studying domestic liquidity and determining the market's need for new securities.

As part of its monetary policy work, this office studies and determines the liquidity level in the Iraqi banking sector by analyzing deposits, available cash, and credit extended, as well as the lending and borrowing interest rates used by banks. This is done on a weekly basis to gain a comprehensive picture of the monetary situation, the banks' need for securities, and their liquidity requirements to cover short-term obligations.

Furthermore, it identifies the types of securities needed by the market based on the conclusions drawn from these studies. These conclusions, in turn, inform the long-term strategies that the bank aims to implement to achieve price stability . The Central Bank issues the following instruments as part of this process:

A- Issuance of securities by the Central Bank of Iraq

These are central bank transfers and Islamic certificates of deposit, targeting the banking sector (governmental, commercial, and Islamic) as well as individuals with accounts at these banks and government institutions wishing to invest in securities. These securities are issued through auctions conducted by the bank via an approved system, and applications to purchase them are submitted according to the terms and conditions set by the bank. The primary purpose of issuing these securities is:

• Withdrawing excess liquidity from banks.

• Reducing private bank lending operations, as securities provide an alternative investment opportunity.

• Reducing the money supply by applying the two paragraphs above.

• Reducing inflation rates by directing investment towards holding balances with the central bank.

• Providing additional liquidity to the bank by reducing its obligations to banks, thus enabling the bank to reinvest it in other instruments.

• Increasing financial depth by providing securities that can be resold or liquidated at any time banks need liquidity to facilitate their financial transactions.

• Activating the interbank market for liquidity management involves using securities as a tool for sale within this market or as a guarantee of the liquidity needed by banks. The issuance of securities by the central bank is the first step in activating this market.

• The repurchase agreement and the reverse repurchase agreement ( REPO) , because these instruments are considered a starting point for activating the new monetary policy tools.

b) Issuing bonds on behalf of the Ministry of Finance

The Central Bank of Iraq, acting as the financial agent for the government, issues bonds for the Iraqi Ministry of Finance. The primary purpose of issuing these bonds is to finance the state's general budget deficit. The needs are determined according to the Iraqi budget law. The bank announces and promotes these bonds, which target the public and banks. The bank collects the proceeds from the sale of the bonds and transfers them to the account of the Iraqi Ministry of Finance for use within the specified needs of public finance. The bank also undertakes the process of monitoring the repayment of the bond's principal and interest.

c) Rediscount rate (discounting securities in favor of banks)

The office handles the discounting of securities on behalf of banks if they wish to discount the securities issued in favor of the Ministry of Finance in order to provide liquidity to the bank if it needs it.

d- Existing facilities

The need for loan-and-deposit facilities for banks arises when financial systems are underdeveloped, leading to the use of such instruments, which include:

• Overnight investment.

• The primary credit of banks, which is at a rate higher than the approved monetary policy rate by adding (2%) to the monetary policy rate, may reach (20%) of the bank's capital.

• Secondary credit, which is for a longer period and at a higher price than primary credit, becomes the policy price added to it (3%), and it may be guaranteed by securities issued by the Ministry of Finance.

• The last resort for lending, which allows banks suffering from a financial crisis under exceptional circumstances to grant a loan in accordance with the Central Bank of Iraq Law, at a rate of (3.5%) in addition to the monetary policy rate, and in accordance with guarantees determined by this bank after the approval of the Minister of Finance, provided that the period does not exceed three months, and the Central Bank may renew the period.

The existing facilities at the Central Bank of Iraq, whether for deposits or lending, are completely suspended due to the existence of securities within the open market operations, as well as the securities of the Ministry of Finance, which provide a current opportunity for banks to manage their liquidity without the need for existing facilities.

 Third: Mandatory Reserve Requirements

This is a percentage imposed on deposits in the banking sector, meaning that the Central Bank of Iraq imposes a percentage on deposits according to their type within the sector, including current and current-natured deposits, fixed deposits, savings in dinars and dollars, and the private and government sectors, which have been determined according to the percentages below:

1. Current deposits of the private sector are (22%) in Iraqi dinars and (18%) in US dollars.

2. Time deposits in the private sector for all licensed banks (13%) based on the decision of the Board of Directors of this bank No. (63) of 2024.

3. Government deposits, both current and time deposits, shall be (22%) in Iraqi dinars.

The mandatory reserve is one of the most important monetary policy tools, which works to limit the bank’s ability to grant loans by imposing the above ratios. It is used by the central bank according to the direction of monetary policy. In addition, the mandatory reserve requirements act as a guarantee tool for bank deposits (they are used to pay part of the depositors’ money in the event of a crisis and the bank’s inability to pay).

Group Two: Unconventional Tools

First: Foreign Currency Trading Platform

The Central Bank of Iraq considered the foreign currency sale platform (window) as a means to ensure and stabilize the exchange rate, which contributed significantly to maintaining the stability of the Iraqi dinar exchange rate and providing foreign currency to cover the private sector’s imports of goods and services, as well as the needs of citizens for travel and medical treatment.

The Central Bank of Iraq has established an electronic platform for selling dollars in coordination with international bodies in order to control and regulate the operations of the foreign currency sales window and ensure effective oversight of it.

An international company specializing in building it was commissioned to link banks with the Central Bank through it, with the aim of reducing fraud and terrorism financing and raising the level of performance of the banking sector, which is welcomed by all regulatory and supervisory authorities in the world as it enjoys a high degree of compliance with international requirements and knowledge of the true beneficiary.

 Second: Central Bank initiatives (quantitative easing)

Through its mandate to support development and stimulate the growth of the Iraqi economy, the Central Bank of Iraq seeks to bolster the liquidity of specialized banks with financial initiatives that enable them to provide industrial, agricultural, and housing loans, thereby supporting economic activity and creating job opportunities.

The bank also provides financial initiatives to private commercial banks to finance small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The bank has taken several steps and offered various facilitations, including the following:

1. Banking facilities through the rescheduling of bank loans to the private sector, especially those owed by small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as increasing the repayment period for existing and future loans.

2. Continuing to support real activities through the lending policy adopted by the Central Bank and in cooperation with banks operating in Iraq to drive the development process.

https://cbi.iq/page/26

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Morning 1-15-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

XRP Faces Jan 15 CLARITY Act Test as ETFs Signal Confidence

Regulatory clarity meets a critical technical support zone

Overview

• XRP is trading above the key $2.00 level as U.S. lawmakers prepare for a pivotal Jan. 15 vote on the CLARITY Act.

• The outcome could shape XRP’s long-term regulatory positioning and institutional adoption.

• Despite a broader crypto market pullback, XRP spot ETFs recorded $4.92 million in net inflows, signaling continued investor confidence.

Key Developments

• A U.S. Senate Committee markup session for the Digital Asset Market Structure and Clarity Act of 2025 is scheduled for 10:00 AM ET on January 15.

• The bill aims to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital commodities.

• It outlines oversight responsibilities for the CFTC, addresses wash trading, and mandates proof-of-reserves requirements.

Why the CLARITY Act Matters for Crypto

• Passage could reduce regulatory uncertainty that has constrained institutional participation.

• Clearer rules may lower compliance barriers for altcoins like XRP, improving scalability and adoption.

• Supporters argue the bill balances innovation with transparency and guardrails.

XRP ETFs Show Growing Institutional Interest

• On January 9, XRP spot ETFs added approximately 2.32 million XRP, reflecting $4.92M in net inflows.

• ETF demand suggests confidence in XRP’s regulatory outlook, even amid near-term market weakness.

• Price action continues to track institutional sentiment, not just retail speculation.

Technical Snapshot: Can $2.00 Hold?

• XRP is trading near $2.08 after pulling back from recent highs.

• Momentum indicators:

• MACD below the signal line signals short-term bearish pressure

• RSI near 43, indicating a neutral, non-oversold condition

• Upside scenario:

• Holding $2.00 could allow a move toward $2.20 resistance

• A breakout above $2.20 opens targets at $2.35 and $2.50

• Downside risk:

• A break below $2.00 may expose $1.90, then $1.80 as next supports

Why It Matters

• XRP sits at the intersection of regulation and institutional adoption.

• The Jan. 15 vote represents a policy catalyst, not just a technical one, that could influence longer-term valuation.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

• Regulatory clarity for digital assets supports alternative value rails alongside fiat currencies.

• For foreign currency holders anticipating a Global Reset, clearer crypto frameworks strengthen the case for multi-system monetary coexistence rather than reliance on a single reserve currency.

• XRP’s use case in cross-border settlement narratives keeps it relevant in broader currency realignment discussions.

Key Takeaway

• XRP’s near-term price hinges on $2.00 support, but its longer-term trajectory may be shaped by Washington, not charts.

• Regulatory clarity could prove more decisive than short-term volatility.

Sometimes the biggest price driver isn’t the market — it’s the vote.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

Sources

• CoinGape — XRP Price Outlook Ahead of Jan 15 CLARITY Act Vote

• Cointelegraph — U.S. lawmakers advance crypto market structure legislation

~~~~~~~~~~

Russia Pushes Crypto Into “Everyday Finance” With Retail Access Bill

Caps, controls, and cross-border strategy redefine Moscow’s digital asset stance

Overview

• Russia is preparing legislation to open limited cryptocurrency access to everyday investors.

• The bill would allow non-qualified retail participants to buy crypto up to 300,000 rubles (about $3,800).

• Lawmakers aim to normalize crypto as part of the financial system, rather than treating it as a special or experimental asset class.

Key Developments

• The draft bill is expected to be reviewed during the spring session of the State Duma.

• It would remove cryptocurrencies from a special regulatory regime that has historically restricted their use.

• The proposal reflects a shift toward treating digital assets as routine financial instruments with guardrails.

Retail Access — With Firm Limits

• Non-qualified investors would gain access, but only within clearly defined caps.

• Authorities stress that crypto exposure must be controlled to prevent speculation and household risk.

• The 300,000-ruble limit is designed to allow participation without destabilizing the financial system.

Cross-Border and Strategic Use

• Beyond domestic trading, the bill supports:

• Crypto-based cross-border settlements

• Token issuance in Russia for placement on foreign markets

• These measures align with Russia’s ongoing efforts to diversify away from traditional financial rails amid sanctions pressure.

Central Bank Caution Remains

• The Bank of Russia continues to warn about systemic risks from unrestricted retail crypto access.

• Prior proposals included:

• Risk-awareness testing for retail investors

• Continued bans on anonymous and privacy-focused digital assets

• The new bill reflects a compromise between innovation and strict oversight.

Why It Matters

• Russia is signaling that crypto is no longer fringe — but policy-managed infrastructure.

• By integrating digital assets into everyday finance, Moscow is building parallel financial capabilities while maintaining tight state control.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

• Expanded crypto use in Russia strengthens alternative settlement channels outside the dollar system.

• For foreign currency holders anticipating a Global Reset, this move reflects gradual system diversification rather than abrupt disruption.

• It reinforces the trend toward multiple value rails — fiat, crypto, and local currencies — coexisting during monetary realignment.

Key Takeaway

• Russia is not liberalizing crypto — it is institutionalizing it.

• Limited retail access, strict caps, and cross-border functionality point to strategic normalization, not speculation.

Crypto doesn’t go mainstream overnight — it gets regulated first.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

Sources

• Bitcoin Magazine — Russia Moves to Make Crypto ‘Everyday Finance’ as Lawmakers Prepare Retail Access Bill

• Reuters — Russia explores regulated crypto use for domestic and cross-border payments

~~~~~~~~~~

🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱

If you’ve been holding foreign currency for many years, you were not foolish.
You were not wrong to believe the global financial system would change.

What failed was not your patience — it was the information you were given.

For years, dates, rumors, and personalities replaced facts, structure, and proof. “This week” predictions created cycles of hope and disappointment that were never based on how currencies actually change.

That is not your failure.

Our mission here is different:  • No dates • No rates • No hype • No gurus

Instead, we focus on:
• Verifiable developments • Institutional evidence
• Global financial structure • Where countries actually sit in the process

Currency value changes only come after sovereignty, trade, banking, settlement systems, and fiscal coordination are in place. History and institutions confirm this sequence.

You will see silence. You will see denials. That is not delay — that is discipline.

Protect your identity. Organize your documents.   Verify everything.
Never hand your discernment to anyone who cannot show proof.

You deserve truth — not timelines.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

RV Facts with Proof Links Link

RV Updates Proof links - Facts Link

Follow the Gold/Silver Rate COMEX

Follow Fast Facts

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Thank you Dinar Recaps

MilitiaMan and Crew: IQD News Update-CBI focus-Credit Rating-Gatekeepers Watching

MilitiaMan and Crew: IQD News Update-CBI focus-Credit Rating-Gatekeepers Watching

1-14-2026

The Crew:  Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man

Follow MM on X == https://x.com/Slashn

Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBZl6l1WAXc

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Evening 1-14-26

Basrah Crudes Rise Despite Global Decline

2026-01-14 Shafaq News– Basrah   On Wednesday, Iraq’s Basrah crude edged up with a drop in global oil prices.

Basrah Heavy crude increased by $1.17 to $59.07 per barrel, and Basrah Medium crude by $1.17 further reaching $61.62 per barrel.

Brent crude futures fell 9 cents, or 0.14%, to $65.38 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures dropped 12 cents, or 0.2%, to $61.03.   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Basrah-crudes-rise-despite-global-decline-4-5

US Oil Prices Fall More Than $1 As Trump’s Comments Ease Iran Tension Fears

2026-01-14 Shafaq News    US oil prices fell more than $1 in early Asian trade on Thursday after US President Donald Trump said killings in Iran's crackdown on nationwide protests were subsiding, easing fears of supply disruptions and possible military action against Iran.

US West Texas Intermediate crude futures were trading at $60.78 a barrel at 2322 GMT, down $1.24, or 2%, from the previous day's close. WTI had settled more than 1% higher on Wednesday, then gave back most of those gains after Trump's remarks reduced concerns over a potential US attack on Iran and supply disruptions.

(Reuters)   Only the headline is edited by Shafaq News.  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/US-oil-prices-fall-more-than-1-as-Trump-s-comments-ease-Iran-tension-fears

Iran Orders Temporary Closure Of National Airspace

2026-01-14 Shafaq News- Tehran   Iran issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) on Wednesday ordering the temporary closure of its airspace to all flights, while allowing international flights to and from the country that have obtained prior authorization.

The notice stated that the closure would remain in effect for “slightly more than two hours,” without providing an official explanation for the decision or indicating whether the measure could be extended.

This move followed a heightened regional tensions, as several European countries, including Italy, Poland, Germany, and Spain, urged their citizens to leave Iran. 

Earlier, Reuters cited European officials on Wednesday, saying that US military intervention against Iran could occur within the next 24 hours. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Middle-East/Iran-orders-temporary-closure-of-national-airspace

The Central Organization For Standardization Announces The Implementation Of A Plan To Transition From Traditional To Electronic Oversight.

The Central Organization for Standardization and Quality Control (COSQC) revealed on Wednesday a plan to transition from traditional to digital oversight, explaining that this digital transformation will streamline procedures and enhance transparency. The organization also emphasized its commitment to building an integrated system for monitoring the operations of local companies and pre-inspection procedures.

Fayyad al-Dulaimi, head of COSQC, stated that "the organization has a plan to transition from traditional to digital (electronic) oversight, in addition to adopting participatory community oversight, particularly regarding market monitoring and all matters falling outside the organization's traditional scope of work."

Al-Dulaimi explained that "the agency seeks to build an integrated system known as the monitoring and control room, to follow up on the work of local companies and pre-inspection procedures, in order to ensure the accuracy of information and analysis and sound decision-making in monitoring goods and merchandise in terms of quantity, quality, origin, and degree of conformity or non-conformity, which provides a real vision for controlling this file, and will reflect positively on the country’s economy in the future through the accuracy of procedures and ensuring the prevention of the entry of non-conforming goods."

He pointed out that "digital transformation contributes to simplifying procedures and enhancing transparency," noting that "unifying systems reduces errors."

He explained that "any digital transformation project is based on two fundamental aspects: the first is material, represented by providing the infrastructure, and the second is training personnel on digital systems and devices in a manner that suits the nature of the central agency's work."

He affirmed that "the foundations and plans have been laid, and implementation has begun with the first step: establishing the operations room and equipping it with the devices and systems that meet the requirements of the government program."

Al-Dulaimi stated that "the main objective of digital transformation is to ensure citizen security by verifying that goods and products conform to approved specifications, thus achieving public health and safety."

He indicated that "the agency has developed plans to enhance five service areas encompassing more than 28 sub-services. We have started with two services, and the remaining three are scheduled for completion by 2026. These include selling specifications electronically, providing remote goods inspection services, electronic payment, remote patent services, and electronic revenue collection."

He stressed that “traditional oversight will gradually be transformed into electronic oversight, which will be reflected in the speed of completing transactions,” noting that “all these services will be available through the official websites of the Central Agency,” indicating that “the Agency has started with the first steps, and they will be officially announced within the next two months.”   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64594

The US Deficit Decreased By Approximately $22.8 Billion During The Third Quarter.

The US current account deficit recorded a notable decline during the third quarter of 2025, affected by the application of tariffs on imports, along with an increase in primary revenues.

The U.S. Commerce Department's Bureau of Economic Analysis reported Wednesday that the current account deficit, which reflects the movement of goods, services, and investments to and from the United States, fell by $22.8 billion, or 9.2%, in the third quarter to $226.4 billion, its lowest level since the third quarter of 2023, according to Reuters

.These figures came in below the expectations of economists surveyed by Reuters, who predicted the deficit would fall to around $238.4 billion. The report's release was delayed due to the 43-day government shutdown.

The deficit reached 2.9% of GDP, the lowest level since the first quarter of 2020, compared to 3.3% in the second quarter.

The deficit peaked at 6.3% in the third quarter of 2006. The sweeping tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump reduced import flows, helping to narrow the trade deficit.

Imports of goods declined.

Imports of goods declined by $5 billion to $815.4 billion in the third quarter, due to a decrease in consumer goods imports, while gold imports increased. Imports of services also rose by approximately $3.1 billion to reach $225 billion.

Conversely, merchandise exports fell by $1.9 billion to $548 billion, impacted by declining gold prices, despite increases in capital and consumer goods exports. Meanwhile, service exports rose by approximately $11.7 billion to reach $314.2 billion.

The merchandise trade deficit narrowed to $267.4 billion, compared to $270.4 billion in the previous quarter.

On the revenue side, core revenue increased by $16.3 billion to $395.2 billion, supported by increased returns on direct investment, while core revenue payments increased by $5.3 billion to $390 billion.

Secondary revenues also declined by $2 billion to $44.4 billion, while secondary revenue payments decreased by about $2.1 billion to $97.9 billion, as a result of a decline in general government transfers.    https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64595

Washington Allocates $700 Billion To Buy Greenland

NBC News reported that the United States might pay $700 billion to purchase Greenland if President Donald Trump succeeds in finalizing the deal.

Citing sources familiar with the planning within the Trump administration, the network indicated that "experts, scientists, and former U.S. officials have been involved in assessing the price of Greenland," noting that "acquiring the island is essential for the United States to create a strategic buffer zone in the Arctic against America's main rivals" (Russia and China).

Trump has repeatedly stated the need for Greenland to join the United States. During his first term as president, he proposed purchasing Greenland, and in March 2025, he expressed confidence in its annexation.

In a related matter, former White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller questioned Denmark's right to control the island and stated that it should become part of the United States. Later, Trump stated that Greenland's defense consists of "two teams." 

He suggested that Russia or China could "take" the island if the United States does not.
Greenland is currently a self-governing territory of Denmark. In 1951, Washington and Copenhagen signed a treaty to protect Greenland in addition to their alliance obligations under NATO.   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64591

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Wednesday Afternoon 1-14-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

U.S. Trade Deficit Nearly Halved — Markets Take Notice

CNBC highlights a rare contraction in America’s trade gap

Overview

• Newly released U.S. trade data shows a dramatic narrowing of the trade deficit.

• The gap fell from roughly $136 billion earlier in the year to about $29.4 billion in the most recent report.

• CNBC analysts discussed the figures live, noting the change reflects shifts in trade flows and policy enforcement.

• Based on available records, this marks the smallest reported U.S. trade deficit in nearly two decades.

Key Developments

• Imports declined sharply, while exports held firmer, tightening the overall balance.

• Trade enforcement measures and tariffs were cited as altering import behavior.

• Market observers flagged the report as an unusual data point amid long-running deficit trends.

Why It Matters

• Trade balances directly influence currency flows and capital movement.

• A smaller deficit means fewer dollars exiting the U.S. system to pay for imports.

• Sustained improvement could signal structural adjustment, not just statistical noise.

Why It Matters to Currency Holders

• Dollar leakage slowed: Reduced outflows ease downward pressure on the dollar supply.

• Trade mechanics at work: When imports fall faster than exports, currency dynamics shift — a signal closely watched by currency holders.

• What this does not mean: This is not a payout, RV trigger, or instant economic win. It is a verified accounting change, not a promise or timeline.

Key Takeaway

• Currencies reflect flows, not hype.

• This trade data shows a real, measurable shift worth monitoring — but conclusions must remain grounded in confirmed reports, not speculation.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Dollar Flow Containment

• A sharply reduced U.S. trade deficit signals less dollar outflow into the global system, tightening offshore dollar liquidity.

• When fewer dollars leak abroad through imports, global dollar availability contracts, forcing trading partners and financial institutions to adjust funding, settlement, and reserve strategies.

• This supports a re-centralization of dollar power, reinforcing U.S. leverage even as de-dollarization narratives persist elsewhere.

• Pillar 2: Trade Enforcement as a Monetary Tool

• The data underscores how trade policy and enforcement now function as indirect monetary instruments.

• By reshaping import behavior, tariffs and compliance measures influence currency flows without central bank action, shifting power from purely monetary authorities toward executive and trade-policy frameworks.

• This marks a structural shift in global finance, where trade mechanics increasingly drive currency outcomes, a key feature of an emerging reset phase.

Trade balances don’t make headlines often — until they suddenly do.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

Sources

• CNBC — Segment and Commentary on U.S. Trade Deficit

• U.S. Census Bureau — Official Trade Balance Data

• Trading Economics — U.S. Balance of Trade (Historical Data)

~~~~~~~~~~

BRICS Unit Stalls as India and China Reject a Shared Currency

Internal resistance exposes limits of de-dollarization ambitions

Overview

• Momentum toward a unified BRICS settlement currency (“BRICS Unit”) is facing growing resistance.

• India and China, two of the bloc’s largest economies, have both declined to support a single common currency.

• The pushback highlights deep internal divisions and raises questions about whether BRICS can move beyond bilateral, local-currency trade arrangements.

Key Developments

• India firmly rejected the idea of sharing a currency with China, citing economic stability and policy independence.

• China continues to prioritize internationalizing the yuan, rather than backing a collective BRICS currency.

• The lack of consensus is slowing BRICS de-dollarization efforts and limiting progress on multilateral settlement systems.

India Draws a Clear Line

• At the IT-BT Round Table 2025, India’s Commerce Minister stated that a shared BRICS currency is “impossible to think of.”

• India’s External Affairs Minister has repeatedly emphasized that abandoning the dollar is not part of India’s policy.

• Officials argue the dollar remains critical for financial stability and global trade continuity, especially during periods of turbulence.

China Chooses an Independent Currency Path

• China has focused on expanding yuan usage globally through swap lines and payment infrastructure.

• Its Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) now includes hundreds of participants across more than 160 countries.

• Beijing appears to see greater strategic value in yuan internationalization than in supporting a shared BRICS instrument.

Structural Barriers Inside BRICS

• Analysts point out that BRICS lacks the foundations required for a common currency:

• No common market

• No unified trade policy

• Divergent geopolitical priorities

• Even Russia has acknowledged that talk of a single BRICS currency is premature, despite advocating reduced reliance on the dollar.

Rio Summit Signals a Pause

• The July 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio produced a 126-point declaration that made no mention of a BRICS currency or de-dollarization plan.

• Trade cooperation remains largely bilateral, relying on local currencies rather than a unified system.

• Member states continue to prioritize economic stability over symbolic monetary shifts.

Why It Matters

• The resistance underscores how difficult it is for major economies with competing interests to align on monetary policy.

• Without consensus from India and China, a BRICS-wide currency alternative to the dollar remains theoretical, not operational.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

• Expectations of a rapid BRICS-led dollar replacement appear overstated.

• Currency realignments, if they occur, are more likely to emerge through gradual bilateral trade changes, not a sudden bloc-wide reset.

• Stability — not confrontation — continues to guide decision-making among key BRICS members.

Key Takeaway

• BRICS de-dollarization is fragmented, cautious, and internally constrained.

• The bloc is adjusting around the dollar, not uniting against it.

A currency union fails fast when national interests refuse to bend.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News

Sources

• Watcher.Guru — BRICS Unit Hits Resistance as Major Economies Say No

• Reuters — BRICS nations play down prospects of a shared currency

~~~~~~~~~~

🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱

If you’ve been holding foreign currency for many years, you were not foolish.
You were not wrong to believe the global financial system would change.

What failed was not your patience — it was the information you were given.

For years, dates, rumors, and personalities replaced facts, structure, and proof. “This week” predictions created cycles of hope and disappointment that were never based on how currencies actually change.

That is not your failure.

Our mission here is different:  • No dates • No rates • No hype • No gurus

Instead, we focus on:
• Verifiable developments • Institutional evidence
• Global financial structure • Where countries actually sit in the process

Currency value changes only come after sovereignty, trade, banking, settlement systems, and fiscal coordination are in place. History and institutions confirm this sequence.

You will see silence. You will see denials. That is not delay — that is discipline.

Protect your identity. Organize your documents.       Verify everything.
Never hand your discernment to anyone who cannot show proof.

You deserve truth — not timelines.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

~~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

RV Facts with Proof Links Link

RV Updates Proof links - Facts Link

Follow the Gold/Silver Rate COMEX

Follow Fast Facts

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Thank you Dinar Recaps 

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Morning 1-14-26

Gold Rises 1% And Silver Surpasses $90 An Ounce

Money and Business     Economy News - Gold prices rose to new record highs on Wednesday, while silver jumped to an all-time high above $90 an ounce, supported by weaker-than-expected US inflation readings that boosted bets on interest rate cuts.  Gold rose 1.02% in spot trading to reach $4,634.40 an ounce.

 US gold futures for February delivery also rose 0.9% to $4,643.80.  The data showed that the US consumer price index rose 0.2% month-on-month and 2.6% year-on-year in December, driven by higher rent and food costs.

This increase came as the impact of some distortions related to the government shutdown, which had put pressure on inflation in November, eased, but it remained below analysts' expectations of a rise of 0.3% monthly and 2.7% annually.

US President Donald Trump welcomed the inflation figures, renewing his pressure on Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell to cut interest rates.

Investors and major brokerage firms, including Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, expect two interest rate cuts of 25 basis points each this year, with the first possible cut in June.

On the geopolitical front, Trump on Tuesday called on Iranians to continue the protests, saying that “help is on the way,” amid the largest wave of protests in Iran in years.

As for other precious metals, silver surged in spot trading, surpassing $90 an ounce for the first time ever. Platinum climbed 3.5% to $2,405.30, its highest level in a week, after hitting a record high of $2,478.50 on December 29. Palladium rose 1.8% to $1,873.   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64561

Iraq Is The Largest Importer Of Iranian Goods, With A Value Of $10 Billion.

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad  Middle East News reported on Wednesday that Iraq tops the list of countries importing Iranian goods, with purchases amounting to about $10 billion between April 2024 and January 2025, followed by the UAE with about $6 billion, and then Turkey with $5.5 billion.

According to official data from the Iranian Customs Administration, the volume of non-oil trade between Iran and its fifteen neighboring countries reached $13.42 billion during the period from March 20 to June 21 of last year, with the exchange of about 23 million tons of goods.

In terms of exports, Iraq remained the primary destination for Iranian goods, with a value of $1.9 billion, followed by the UAE at $1.6 billion, then Turkey at $940 million, Afghanistan at $510 million, and Oman at $437 million. Imports from neighboring countries reached $6.8 billion, with the UAE topping the list of countries supplying Iran with over $3.9 billion, followed by Turkey at $1.98 billion, then Russia at $353 million, and Oman at $223 million.

According to the same data, the volume of non-oil trade between Iran and neighboring countries continued to rise, recording an increase of 21% year-on-year until March 19, 2025, reaching $74.32 billion, with exports rising to $36.01 billion compared to imports of $38.31 billion.

Despite concerns expressed by Iraq, the UAE, and Oman regarding the impact of the US tariffs, the decision has not yet included clear details on the implementation mechanism or any potential exemptions. In this context, the UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, Thani Al Zeyoudi, stated that his country is monitoring the situation to determine the extent of the decision's impact on food imports.

Turkey is also facing a state of confusion as its trade with the United States expands from $30 billion to $100 billion, but it knows how to deal with such situations without a direct clash with Washington, according to analyst Taha Aydinoglu.

In contrast, China, the largest buyer of Iranian oil, continues to protect its interests and oppose any unilateral sanctions, while European economies such as Germany and Switzerland, along with India and Uzbekistan, also appear to be exposed to the impact of this tariff, reflecting the widening commercial reach of Iran across different continents.

In recent days, the United States announced that any country that conducts trade with Iran will face a 25% tariff on its trade with the United States, a move that could include Iraq, which is among the Arab countries most closely linked to trade with Tehran.

The US decision comes at a time when Iran is witnessing its largest anti-government protests in years, within the context of a series of sanctions imposed by Washington on Tehran for years.  https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64562

Oil Prices Jump, With Brent Rising Above $65 Per Barrel

INA-Baghdad   Oil prices rose in global markets on Tuesday, with Brent crude trading above $65 a barrel, while US crude also posted gains.   Data from the global oil market, reviewed by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), showed that Brent crude futures rose by 1.70% to reach $65.08 a barrel.  The data also indicated that West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures climbed by 2.65% to reach $60.60 a barrel.  https://ina.iq/en/economy/44793-oil-jumps-above-65-per-barrel.html

CBI Foreign Currency Reserves Decline

2026-01-14 06:03   Shafaq News– Baghdad   Iraq’s foreign currency reserves declined by the end of October 2025, according to figures released by the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) on Wednesday.

Official data showed the reserves stood at 126.857 trillion Iraqi dinars ($97.582B) as of October 31, easing from 127.601 trillion dinars ($98.155B) at the end of September.

Despite the monthly decline, the data showed an increase compared with August, when reserves totaled 123.033 trillion dinars ($94.641B).

The figures also pointed to a broader downward trajectory from the same period in 2024, when reserves stood at 130.347 trillion dinars ($100.267B), as well as from 2023, when they reached 145.257 trillion dinars ($111.736B). https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/CBI-foreign-currency-reserves-decline-8   

Dollar Rises In Baghdad, Erbil Markets

2026-01-14 03:47   Shafaq News– Baghdad/ Erbil   The US dollar rose at the opening of Wednesday trading against the Iraqi dinar in Baghdad and Erbil markets.

According to a Shafaq News correspondent, the dollar climbed at Baghdad’s Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya central exchanges to 147,500 dinars per $100, up from 146,400 dinars recorded on Tuesday.

Exchange shops in the capital also reported higher rates, with the selling price reaching 148,000 dinars per $100 and the buying price standing at 147,000 dinars.   In Erbil, the dollar followed the same upward trend, selling at 147,550 dinars per $100 and buying at 147,450 dinars.  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-rises-in-Baghdad-Erbil-markets

Precious Metals Surge To Historic Milestone

2026-01-14 Shafaq News  Gold climbed on Wednesday to again hit a record, while silver surpassed the never-before-seen $90 mark, as softer-than-expected U.S. inflation readings cemented bets on interest rate cuts amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.

Spot gold rose 1% to $4,633.40 per ounce as of 0525 GMT, after hitting a record high of $4,639.42 earlier in the session. U.S. gold futures for February delivery rose 0.8% to $4,640.90.

Spot silver jumped 4.2% to $90.59 per ounce after breaching $90 for the first time, having shot up nearly 27% already this year.

"U.S. CPI figures showed that inflation remained relatively contained at 2.6% (year-on-year), and risk assets may be hoping for a similarly benign PPI reading to keep expectations alive for further monetary policy easing," said Tim Waterer, KCM Trade's chief market analyst.

The U.S. core Consumer Price Index rose 0.2% month-on-month and 2.6% year-on-year in December, falling short of analysts' ⁠expectations of a 0.3% and 2.7% increase, respectively. U.S. core Producer Price Index data for December is due later in the day.

U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed the inflation figures, reiterating his push for the U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to cut interest rates "meaningfully."

Global central bank chiefs and top Wall Street bank CEOs lined up in support of Powell on Tuesday after news of the Trump administration's decision to investigate him drew condemnation from former Fed chiefs as well.

Analysts say worries ⁠around Fed independence and ⁠trust in U.S. assets added to safe-haven demand for the yellow metal.   Investors expect two 25-basis-point rate cuts this year, with the earliest in June.

Non-yielding assets tend to do well in a low-interest-rate environment and during geopolitical or economic uncertainty.

ANZ expects gold to trade above $5,000/oz in the first half of 2026, the bank said in a note on Wednesday.

For silver, the next big figure was the $100 mark and high two-digit percentage gains for the metal seem likely this year, said GoldSilver Central managing director Brian Lan. 

Elsewhere, spot platinum climbed 4% to $2,415.95 per ounce, a one-week high. It hit a record $2,478.50/oz on December 29.  Palladium was up 3.3% at $1,899.44 per ounce.  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Precious-metals-surge-to-historic-milestone

“Tidbits From TNT” Wednesday Morning 1-14-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  The Ministry of Interior announces the arrest of 91 individuals manipulating the dollar exchange rate.

The Ministry of Interior announced on Tuesday the arrest of 91 people manipulating dollar prices.

Ministry spokesman Miqdad Miri told Al-Eqtisad News that "security forces were able to arrest 91 people on charges of manipulating dollar prices."

He pointed out that "the ministry was also able to arrest 147 people manipulating the prices of food and medicine," indicating that "the Ministry of Interior has contracted for 100 fixed and mobile radars to monitor external roads  link

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

Tishwash:  An economist explains the budget and spending mechanism (1/12) under the caretaker government.

Economic expert Salah Nouri explained on Tuesday the legal foundations for submitting and approving the federal general budget, and the financial disbursement mechanisms adopted in the event of its non-approval, especially in light of the caretaker government situation.

Nouri pointed out in his statement to Al-Furat News Agency that “Article (11) of the Federal Financial Management Law No. (6) of 2019 stipulated that the draft federal general budget law be submitted by the Council of Ministers to the House of Representatives before the middle of October of each year.” 

He explained that “Article (13), Paragraph Three, dealt with the situation of the House of Representatives not approving the draft budget law until 12/31 of the fiscal year, as the final financial statements for the previous year are considered the basis for the financial statements for the current year, and are submitted to the House of Representatives for the purpose of approving them.” 

He added that "the current situation is that the government is a caretaker government, and therefore paragraph one of Article (13) is applied, which allows spending at a rate of 1/12 of the total actual expenditures of the previous year, after excluding non-recurring expenditures for the current and investment budgets."  link

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

Tishwash:  Warnings of escalating public anger following tax and customs duty hikes

 Economic expert Ahmed Al-Tamimi warned on Monday (January 12, 2026) of the possibility of escalating public anger in Iraq due to the government's decisions to raise taxes and customs duties, coinciding with rising prices of basic commodities in the markets, which increases the pressure on the living standards of citizens, especially those with limited income.

Al-Tamimi told Baghdad Today: “Any increase in taxes or customs duties, if not accompanied by clear social protection measures, will directly affect the prices of goods and services, because the merchant and the importer will pass on the cost of the increase to the end consumer, while the Iraqi citizen is already suffering from the erosion of income as a result of inflation and the high cost of living.”

He added that “the Iraqi public is sensitive to economic decisions that affect livelihoods, and such measures could turn from an economic issue into a social and perhaps political crisis if they are not managed wisely and transparently.”

He pointed out that “raising customs duties may be financially justified to support non-oil revenues, but the current timing is not appropriate due to weak market control and the absence of local alternatives capable of meeting market needs, which leads to higher prices without a tangible improvement in services or income levels.”

Al-Tamimi stressed that “continuing this approach without societal dialogue or governmental clarification will increase public discontent, especially with citizens feeling that the economic burdens fall on them alone, in light of the absence of real reforms to combat waste and corruption and improve financial management.”

For his part, economist Ziad Al-Hashemi believes that implementing the new customs system and imposing customs duties, along with regulating remittances through a unified governance system, represents a correct and initial step in the right direction, but he stressed that the problem lies in the implementation mechanism and the state’s management of the transition process from the previous situation to the new system.

Al-Hashemi explained in a statement to “Baghdad Today” on Sunday (January 11, 2026) that “the rapid and comprehensive application of the system has led to confusion in Iraqi markets and has directly affected citizens,” noting the need for “the government to reassess the implementation mechanism, and perhaps introduce amendments to mitigate the damage caused by the speed of implementation.”

He added that "the solution lies in adopting a phased implementation mechanism, starting with focusing on specific priority goods, reviewing the customs duties imposed on them, and monitoring the repercussions of this phase before moving on to other goods, so that the process is carried out in several stages that allow for absorbing the change and reducing the damage to society, markets and traders, in addition to its impact on supply and demand."

Al-Hashemi stressed that “the gradual approach helps the government achieve its goals in controlling remittances and commercial operations and achieving non-oil revenues that support public finances, while at the same time giving traders an opportunity to rearrange their situations and the volume of goods, and sparing the consumer the shock of a sudden rise in prices in the markets.”

He concluded by saying that "this well-thought-out approach will ensure a smooth transition to the new system," expressing his hope that the government will adopt this path during the next phase to ensure market stability and protect the citizen.  link

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

Mot:  But Mommie!!!!!  

 Mot:  Now Tell Me... Who Is the Most Encouraging!!! 

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Evening 1-13-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

Trump’s $2,000 Tariff Checks in 2026: Status and Outlook

Tariff revenue promises collide with legal and practical reality

Overview

• Former President Donald Trump has renewed talk of sending $2,000 “tariff dividend” checks to Americans funded by tariff revenue.

• The timing is uncertain: administration statements now target “toward the end of 2026.”

• Implementation hinges on legislation from Congress and the outcome of a critical Supreme Court decision on the legality of the tariffs themselves.

Latest Signals

• Trump appeared to momentarily forget his own promise in a recent interview, later reaffirming plans for checks by end of 2026.

• The White House has not released a detailed, concrete roadmap for the program.

• Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that tariff rebates would require new legislation, adding uncertainty to execution.

Constraints and Challenges

• The tariff revenue Trump cites has been widely questioned; available funds are far short of early estimates required to support $2,000 payments at scale.

• Congressional approval is essential — executive action alone won’t deliver the checks.

Why It Matters

If implemented, these checks could stimulate consumer spending and redistribute tariff-generated revenue — a politically powerful but economically debated policy.
Failure to secure legal footing for the underlying tariffs directly jeopardizes the revenue base imagined for these checks.

Tariff dreams meet the hard wall of legal and legislative reality.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News

Sources

• People — Trump appears unsure about $2,000 tariff checks but suggests late-2026 payout

• Forbes — Treasury says $2,000 tariff checks need congressional approval
  

~~~~~~~~~~

Supreme Court and Tariffs: Ruling Pending, Stakes Very High

Justices weigh executive power, congressional authority, and economic fallout

Overview

• The U.S. Supreme Court is expected soon to rule on whether broad tariffs imposed by Trump under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) were lawful.

• Lower courts previously held that the tariffs exceeded presidential authority and were illegal.

Trump’s Response

• Trump warned that a ruling against tariff legality would leave the U.S. “screwed,” potentially requiring hundreds of billions (or even trillions) in refunds to companies and trading partners.

• The president described the fallout as a “complete mess.”

Treasury’s Comment

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says that if the Supreme Court strikes down the tariffs, the Treasury has sufficient funds to issue refunds, though the process could take weeks to a year.

Judicial Timing

The Supreme Court has not yet released a decision on the tariffs, leaving markets and policymakers in suspense.

Why It Matters

A ruling against the tariffs would be a significant judicial check on executive economic power, reaffirming Congressional authority over trade policy.
Substantial refunds could reshape Treasury finances and alter fiscal forecasts.
The outcome directly affects the viability of the $2,000 tariff check idea since those payments are premised on tariff revenue.

When the judiciary weighs in, both trade policy and fiscal strategy are on the line.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News

Sources

• Reuters — U.S. tariffs at risk of refunds exceeding $133.5 B if Supreme Court rules against legality

• AFP via Yahoo Finance — Trump says U.S. could be ‘screwed’ if Supreme Court strikes tariffs down

~~~~~~~~~~

Economic and Policy Implications

Three potential pathways shaping the U.S. fiscal landscape

Scenario A: Tariffs Upheld

• Tariffs remain a significant revenue source.

• The Trump administration could attempt to formalize $2,000 tariff checks via legislation.

• Confidence in executive economic policy might strengthen, though legal debate persists.

Scenario B: Tariffs Overturned

• The Supreme Court invalidates the tariff authority under IEEPA.

• The Treasury may refund hundreds of billions, dampening revenue projections.

• The $2,000 check plan loses much of its funding foundation, likely killing or reshaping it entirely.

Scenario C: Mixed Ruling

• The Court limits certain tariffs but allows others.

• Revenue streams may shrink but not vanish, prompting partial redistribution strategies or alternative tax incentives.

The legal fight over tariffs is not just about trade — it’s about who controls fiscal policy and how the government finances major programs.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News

Source

• The Independent — Tariff rebate checks hinge on Supreme Court ruling and revenue outlook
  https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-tariff-rebate-checks-2026-b2886295.html

~~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

RV Facts with Proof Links Link

RV Updates Proof links - Facts Link

Follow the Gold/Silver Rate COMEX

Follow Fast Facts

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Thank you Dinar Recaps

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Evening 1-13-26

The Ministry Of Interior Is Pursuing Dollar Speculators

First  2026/01/14    Baghdad: Sorour Al-Ali  The Ministry of Interior intensified its efforts to protect economic security and pursue those manipulating the dollar exchange rate, taking action against (91) accused persons, in parallel with strengthening traffic control and developing roads, which contributed to reducing accidents by (33%) and organizing data for more than (12) million cars through a modern national electronic database.

The Ministry's spokesman, Brigadier General Miqdad Miri, said in a joint press conference held yesterday, Tuesday, with the Director General of the Traffic Directorate, Lieutenant General Dr. Uday Samir: that the legal procedures to prosecute those manipulating the price of the dollar included (91) defendants in various governorates, in addition to monitoring (104) activities related to imported food items to ensure consumer protection and market control.

On the traffic front, the Ministry confirmed that the efforts of the General Directorate of Traffic contributed to a 33% decrease in accidents during 2025 compared to 2024, along with a reduction in traffic fatalities through monitoring common violations, most notably using a mobile phone while driving and inattentiveness. The measures included regulating traffic on internal and external roads through 473 traffic centers and 1,354 field vehicles, addressing accident black spots, and designating safer lanes.

As part of the digital transformation, information on more than (12) million vehicles was registered and standardized in the national database and linked to the national system, in addition to activating electronic booking and issuing license plates through (27) traffic sites, which contributed to improving discipline and facilitating procedures.

For The Citizens.

The Director General of Traffic, Lieutenant General Uday Samir, confirmed that all these steps aim to enhance economic and traffic security, raise awareness of the laws, and ensure the safety of citizens on the roads, while continuing to follow up on violators firmly.    https://alsabaah.iq/126442-.html

Experts: The Rise In The Parallel Market Exchange Rate For The Dollar Is Temporary.

Economic  2026/01/07     Baghdad: Hussein Thagab and Anwar Ayed  The parallel exchange market in Iraq witnessed a significant increase in the dollar exchange rate against the dinar in recent days, reaching around 149,000 dinars per 100 dollars, which had a "slight" impact on the prices of various goods and materials.

Despite the rise in “parallel exchange rates”, specialists confirm that these surges are “temporary” and do not pose any economic concerns at all, especially with the precautionary measures taken by the “monetary authority” to absorb the severity of the rise. 

The Prime Minister’s financial advisor, Dr. Mazhar Muhammad Saleh, had previously described the fluctuation in the exchange rate as “temporary” and not reflecting a structural imbalance, especially since it had practically become detached from the level of income and consumption.

Structural Factors

Economic and financial expert, Dr. Nabil Al-Abadi, believes that this phenomenon is not a coincidence or the result of a single factor, but rather the result of a complex interaction between a number of structural and circumstantial factors, internal and external, which can be analyzed into three reasons: internal structural and institutional factors, market behaviors and speculation, and external restrictions and influences.

Al-Abadi explained in an interview with Al-Sabah that, with regard to internal structural and institutional factors, the Iraqi economy is a mono-type economy, as oil revenues constitute the main source of hard currency, noting that this framework makes the balance of payments and the exchange rate highly vulnerable to the fluctuations of global oil markets. 

Single Economy

Al-Abadi added that, on the monetary front, policies aimed at de-dollarization, which are essential for long-term monetary sovereignty, are being implemented rapidly. However, this implementation has been accompanied by stricter controls on dollar sales and remittance channels, leading to a reduction in supply through semi-official channels and pushing a significant portion of demand towards the parallel market.

Furthermore, the weakness of the private productive sector, whether industrial or agricultural, means the absence of an alternative domestic source of foreign currency beyond oil revenues, depriving the economy of a crucial lever for exchange rate stability.

 In addition, recent developments in the customs system, particularly the requirement for prior documentation under the ASYCUDA system to obtain dollars at the official rate, have disrupted normal trade flows. He explained that this complexity and delay have driven a number of traders, especially medium-sized ones, to resort to the parallel market to finance their urgent transactions, thus increasing actual demand there.

Market And Speculation

Al-Abadi added that, regarding market behavior and speculation, in the absence of attractive and effective regulatory investment channels, a portion of local liquidity tends to be used for exchange rate speculation as a means of achieving quick profits. He explained that this speculation is often fueled by information noise and rumors, which amplifies short-term volatility. Informal practices have also been observed within the parallel market itself, such as price discrimination between different denominations of the same US dollar, indicating distortions in the market's operational mechanisms.

Regarding the third factor, “external restrictions and influences,” the financial and economic expert said that currency transfers through official Iraqi banking channels are facing increasing difficulties, especially when it comes to neighboring countries subject to international sanctions regimes.

He noted that this reality pushes the commercial sector’s need to transfer through these channels to the parallel market, creating additional structural demand. Moreover, the impact of the general regional and international geopolitical climate cannot be ignored, as any tensions lead to an increase in demand for hard currencies as a safe haven, which is reflected in the markets of fragile countries.

The impact of rumors

Al-Abadi added that in response to this analysis, official bodies are presenting a different narrative, focusing on the transient nature of this rise, as government officials describe it as “emergency and temporary,” and a result of rumors that can be contained, while emphasizing the stability of the official price at 1320 dinars to the dollar as a basic anchor. It is also believed that the reform measures in customs and the banking sector will soon begin to show their positive results.

He stressed that from a professional point of view, the official view, despite the necessary reassurance it provides, deals with the apparent symptoms more than it addresses the root causes, emphasizing that circumstantial factors such as new procedures and rumors play a stimulating role, but the roots of the crisis lie in that dangerous mix of a rentier, mono-economic economic structure, chronic weakness in domestic production, and the complexities of the geopolitical environment.

Repeated Cycles

He stated that without addressing this triad, the Iraqi economy and its currency exchange rate will remain vulnerable to repeated cycles of instability, with crises appearing intermittently and then temporarily disappearing before returning in other forms. He explained that the solution to the exchange rate dilemma does not lie in limited technical intervention to balance the parallel market or simply blaming speculators, despite the importance of these short-term measures.

The spokesperson stressed that a real and sustainable solution requires a comprehensive economic policy that aims to diversify sources of national income, stimulate the productive private sector through a supportive investment and legislative environment, and restructure the financial sector to be more efficient and inclusive.

 He pointed out that these structural reforms are the only way to create an economy that is less dependent on the outside and more resistant to shocks, which in turn will reflect on the strength and stability of the national currency in the medium and long term.

Official Price Remains Stable

For his part, Haider Ghazi, the media officer of the Central Bank of Iraq, confirmed that there has been no change in the exchange rate of the dollar against the dinar, and it remains fixed at 1,320 dinars per dollar, explaining that what is being circulated as an exchange rate is only the demand of the unofficial market for dollars outside the system of banks licensed to work in foreign transfers through correspondent banks.

In an interview with Al-Sabah, Ghazi attributed the main reason for the rise in the parallel market to the customs duty due to demand outside the banking system, noting that the application of the prior customs duty for transfer purposes may have put significant pressure on those seeking cash dollars, and was behind the rise in demand for the dollar against the dinar in local markets.

He explained that traders are required to bring the customs declaration (customs statement) from the ASYCUDA system before the bank transfer is made to them, adding that on many occasions the Central Bank of Iraq stated that the ways to obtain dollars are through: First, external transfers through banks in a systematic and documented manner with all parties, and second, through the traveler's dollar after depositing an amount in Iraqi dinars with companies of categories A and B, and it is received through outlets inside Iraqi airports, as the bank set the traveler's share per month at $3,000.

Supply And Demand 

In addition, a number of traders reported that the rise in the dollar price led to fluctuations in the price of goods, especially imported ones. While they indicated that some commercial activities witnessed a temporary slowdown while awaiting the stabilization of the exchange rate, money exchange shop owners explained that the demand for the dollar had increased during the past few days, compared to a relative decline in supply, which contributed to the rise in the price in the parallel market.

Iraq’s economy is mainly dependent on oil revenues, which represent the largest share of the general budget resources. The local market also depends largely on imports to secure basic goods, making exchange rates an influential factor in the cost of imports and the prices of materials in the market.

Government Procedures 

On a related note, economist Mustafa Faraj believes that fluctuations in the dollar exchange rate directly impact the local market, given the nature of the Iraqi economy. He stressed the importance of taking regulatory measures when the exchange rate rises, including controlling the market and regulating trade, as well as ensuring the regular distribution of the food basket to reduce the impact of price changes in basic commodities.

Faraj added that oil prices and geopolitical factors in the region play a role in influencing economic performance, noting that the general budget was built on specific oil price estimates, and with any change in these prices, challenges arise in managing spending.

He suggested that the recent rise in the dollar's price was temporary, linked to the implementation of new mechanisms for regulating trade at the beginning of the year.

Trade Finance Mechanisms

For his part, Professor of International Economics, Nawar Al-Saadi, said that the recent rise in the price of the dollar in the parallel market reflects imbalances in the mechanisms for financing foreign trade and managing the demand for foreign currency, more than it is an indication of weakness in the country’s dollar resources.

Al-Saadi explained that part of the demand for the dollar is related to trade outside official banking channels, in addition to the impact of speculation and psychological factors in the market, stressing that the continued gap between the official price and the parallel market price limits the ability of monetary policies to achieve stability.

Meanwhile, economist Ahmed Eid believes that the rise in the dollar's price came as a result of the convergence of several factors at the same time, including increased commercial demand at the beginning of the year, in addition to psychological and hedging factors among some market participants.

Eid added that these developments do not currently indicate a structural monetary crisis, unless the pressures continue for a longer period or are accompanied by broader economic changes.

Given these circumstances, local market participants are awaiting government measures to control exchange rate activity, amid expectations that the dollar's price trajectory in the coming period will be determined by the balance of supply and demand and trade financing mechanisms. https://alsabaah.iq/126063-.html

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Afternoon 1-13-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

Fed Independence Shock: Powell Probe Sends Tremors Through Global Finance

Dollar confidence tested as political pressure meets monetary authority

Overview

• A criminal investigation involving Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has triggered immediate market unease.

• Investors are reacting to perceived threats against U.S. central bank independence, a cornerstone of global monetary trust.

• The development is rippling through currencies, metals, and risk sentiment worldwide.

Key Developments

• U.S. prosecutors are examining Powell’s congressional testimony related to a Federal Reserve building renovation.

• Former central bank officials and economists warn that politicizing the Fed could undermine policy credibility.

• Markets responded quickly, reflecting heightened sensitivity to institutional stability.

Why It Matters

The Fed’s independence underpins global dollar confidence and international capital flows.
Any erosion of that independence increases systemic risk and volatility across asset classes.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Instability at the Fed can accelerate diversification away from the dollar, boosting interest in alternative currencies and stores of value.
For those positioned for a future currency reset, this represents a structural pressure point rather than a short-term headline.

Implications for the Global Reset

• This event strikes at Pillar One: trust in monetary institutions.

• Even the perception of interference can catalyze long-term shifts in reserve strategy by governments and central banks.

When confidence in the referee falters, the entire financial game changes.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News

Sources

• Reuters — Dollar reels on criminal probe into Fed Chair Powell

• Financial Times — Gold hits record high as Fed independence worries mount

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Dollar Weakens as Markets Question U.S. Monetary Authority

Currency volatility resurfaces amid political and policy uncertainty

Overview

• The U.S. dollar softened sharply following news tied to the Powell investigation and broader policy uncertainty.

• Currency markets are signaling reduced tolerance for political risk at the heart of U.S. monetary governance.

Key Developments

• The dollar fell against major peers as traders reassessed policy credibility and future rate decisions.

• Analysts note rising demand for non-dollar hedges amid uncertainty over institutional independence.

• Volatility metrics ticked higher, reflecting fragile confidence.

Why It Matters

The dollar remains the world’s primary reserve and settlement currency.
Even temporary weakness can reprice global trade, debt servicing, and capital flows.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Periods of dollar stress historically precede currency realignments and revaluations elsewhere.
Holders of foreign currencies often benefit when markets anticipate reduced dollar dominance.

Implications for the Global Reset

• This aligns with Pillar Two: gradual erosion of single-currency reliance.

• Not a collapse — but a measured rebalancing signal watched closely by global investors.

Dollar dominance doesn’t vanish overnight — it frays at the edges first.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News

Sources

• Reuters — Dollar weakens as Fed credibility concerns grow

• Wall Street Journal — Investors reassess dollar outlook amid Fed scrutiny
  

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Gold Hits Record High as Investors Flee Fiat Risk

Safe-haven demand surges on dollar and policy fears

Overview

• Gold prices surged to record highs as investors sought safety amid U.S. monetary uncertainty.

• The move reflects deepening concern over fiat currency stability, not just short-term trading flows.

Key Developments

• Gold rallied sharply following dollar weakness and Fed independence headlines.

• Institutional demand increased as markets priced in longer-term confidence risk.

• Other safe havens, including silver, also attracted inflows.

Why It Matters

Gold remains a core reserve asset for central banks globally.
Rising prices often signal structural stress within the fiat system, not just inflation hedging.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Strength in gold historically correlates with currency system transitions.
Precious metals often lead before currency repricing or monetary restructuring occurs.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Gold’s surge reinforces Pillar One: asset-backed confidence over paper promises.

• Central banks may accelerate reserve diversification strategies, reshaping the global monetary map.

Gold doesn’t chase headlines — it responds to trust breaking down.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News

Sources

• Financial Times — Gold hits record high on Fed independence fears

• Reuters — Safe-haven demand drives precious metals higher
  

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Thank you Dinar Recaps

“Tidbits From TNT” Tuesday 1-13-2026

TNT:

Tishwash: Trade: 15 Memoranda of Understanding and a number of agreements to be signed with Morocco next month

The Ministry of Trade announced on Sunday that a preparatory meeting of the Iraqi-Moroccan Joint Committee was held to discuss the signing of fifteen memoranda of understanding and several agreements during the committee's meetings in Baghdad on February 18-19.

The ministry stated in a press release received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA) that "the Iraqi-Moroccan Joint Committee held its preparatory meeting in Baghdad, chaired by the Iraqi Deputy Chairman of the Committee, Administrative Undersecretary of the Ministry of Trade, Sattar al-Jabri, in preparation for the joint committee meetings scheduled to be held in Baghdad on February 18-19."

The statement added that "the meeting discussed the Iraqi side's report on preparations for the upcoming meeting with the Moroccan side, with the participation of representatives from relevant ministries and government agencies, as well as representatives from the private sector."
It continued, "The meeting addressed approximately fifteen memoranda of understanding and several agreements slated for signing with the Moroccan side during the joint committee meetings, which will contribute to strengthening bilateral cooperation in various fields."

The statement indicated "the Iraqi side's keenness to open up broader horizons for joint cooperation and build strategic partnerships, as well as to sign memoranda of understanding that serve the mutual interests of the two brotherly countries, which are united by solid diplomatic relations and important economic and developmental commonalities."  link

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Tishwash:  Government advisor: The price of a barrel of oil in the 2026 budget is between $55 and $62.

The Prime Minister’s financial advisor, Mazhar Muhammad Saleh, predicted on Monday that the average price of a barrel of oil in the 2026 budget would range between $55 and $62, noting that these estimates are subject to change due to several factors.

Saleh said that “global forecasts, based on OPEC analyses and the context of the global oil market, as well as estimates from a number of international financial institutions, indicate that the average price of a barrel of global oil (Brent crude) expected for 2026 may move within an approximate range of between $55 and $62 per barrel, with an average tendency of approximately $61 in a considerable number of market estimates.”

He pointed out that "these estimates are based on market analyses and informal research related to OPEC forecasts and supply and demand balances in the global economy, and do not represent an official price figure announced by the organization."

He added that "these estimates remain subject to change depending on a number of influencing factors, most notably developments in geopolitical conflicts, changes in the pace of global energy demand growth, production policy decisions within the framework of 'OPEC+', as well as the accelerating shift towards renewable energy and climate policies."  link

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Tishwash:  Sudani meets with Oliver Wyman to discuss debt rescheduling and improving borrowing costs.

On Monday, January 12, 2026, caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani discussed debt rescheduling and improving borrowing costs during a meeting he held with representatives of the financial auditing firms "Oliver" and "Wyman," in the presence of the Minister of Finance, the Governor of the Central Bank, and a number of financial and economic advisors.

 A statement from the office of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, a copy of which was received by Al-Jabal, stated: “Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani chaired a meeting today, Monday, dedicated to discussing financial organization, scheduling, and management of public debt, both external and internal, in the presence of the Minister of Finance, the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, a number of financial and economic advisors, as well as representatives of the global financial auditing firm Oliver Wyman.”

The statement added, "The meeting witnessed a comprehensive and detailed presentation of the plans and programs adopted in scheduling public debts, and the priorities of financial treatments, in accordance with the most appropriate reform steps, and scientific paths based on similar successful global experiences, taking into account the particularity of the Iraqi experience and relying on developing the strong and reliable characteristics of the Iraqi economy."

During the meeting, according to the statement, Al-Sudani pointed to "the government's completion of the financial and economic reform process, and the benefit of the expertise of major international companies in scheduling public debts, both local and foreign, and the importance of adopting medium-term strategies in accordance with the nature of the debts, the credit rating and global indicators in this field, with the importance of emphasizing the development of budgets based on a realistic assessment of the availability of financing and the ability to implement."

The statement continued, “Al-Sudani also stressed the need to achieve the desired benefits from public debt management and employ them within the framework of promoting economic growth, easing pressure on the national currency, improving borrowing costs, and maintaining the financial reputation of the Iraqi economy and its strengths, while emphasizing the stages of diagnosis, improvement, and developing successful strategies for implementation within the steps of managing and scheduling public debt, in line with long-term economic reform.”

 The statement concluded, "Al-Sudani directed the Ministry of Finance, the Central Bank, and financial advisors to continue communicating and following up with Oliver Wyman in order to develop the best executive formulas and financial mechanisms for dealing with public debt, within the framework of sound financial indicators that contribute to the goal of developing the Iraqi economy." link

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Mot: Seeeeeeeeeeeeee -- Told Ya So!!!!! 

Mot:  .. Just aDriving down the road!!!! 

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Morning 1-13-26

An Economist Explains The Budget And Spending Mechanism (1/12) Under The Caretaker Government.

Time: 2026/01/13 {Economic: Al-Furat News} Economic expert Salah Nouri explained on Tuesday the legal foundations for submitting and approving the federal general budget, and the financial disbursement mechanisms adopted in the event of its non-approval, especially in light of the caretaker government situation.

Nouri pointed out in his statement to Al-Furat News Agency that “Article (11) of the Federal Financial Management Law No. (6) of 2019 stipulated that the draft federal general budget law be submitted by the Council of Ministers to the House of Representatives before the middle of October of each year.”

He explained that “Article (13), Paragraph Three, dealt with the situation of the House of Representatives not approving the draft budget law until 12/31 of the fiscal year, as the final financial statements for the previous year are considered the basis for the financial statements for the current year, and are submitted to the House of Representatives for the purpose of approving them.”

He added that "the current situation is that the government is a caretaker government, and therefore paragraph one of Article (13) is applied, which allows spending at a rate of 1/12 of the total actual expenditures of the previous year, after excluding non-recurring expenditures for the current and investment budgets."  From... Ragheed   LINK

Interior Ministry Announces Arrest of 91 Individuals for Manipulating Dollar Exchange Rates

Baghdad – INA  The Ministry of Interior announced on Tuesday the arrest of 91 individuals on charges of manipulating U.S. dollar exchange rates.

The ministry’s spokesperson, Major General Miqdad Miri, said during a press conference attended by the Iraqi News Agency (INA) that security forces had succeeded in arresting 91 persons accused of manipulating dollar prices.

He added that the ministry had also arrested 147 individuals for manipulating the prices of food commodities and medicines, noting that the Ministry of Interior has contracted for 100 fixed and mobile radar units to monitor external highways.

https://ina.iq/en/44781-interior-ministry-announces-arrest-of-91-individuals-for-manipulating-dollar-exchange-rates.html

 Interior Ministry: Those Manipulating Food And Dollar Prices Apprehended... Traffic Directorate Reveals The Number Of Cars In Iraq

Time: 2026/01/13 11:51:13 Reading: 180 times   {Local: Al-Furat News} The Ministry of Interior announced on Tuesday the arrest of a number of people manipulating the prices of food, medicine and the dollar exchange rate, while the Director of the General Traffic Directorate revealed that more than 8 million vehicles have been registered in Iraq since 2003, as part of efforts to enhance control and safety on the roads.

Traffic Director General, Lieutenant General Uday Samir, said at a conference of the Ministry of Interior, which was followed by Al-Furat News, that “the Traffic Directorate has developed specialized curricula for primary, intermediate and preparatory school students, and the Ministry of Education has been contacted to include these curricula in the teaching curriculum.”

He added that "there were random processes in reviewing registration departments, and this has been organized electronically through registration in the Ain Iraq application, and the use of a single window to complete transactions."

Samir pointed out that "27 sites have been built in Baghdad and the provinces, and there are 8 sites under construction, with work being done to ensure that these sites are fully integrated," indicating that "the production capacity in the panel factory has been increased, as the daily production was previously 5,000 panels."

He continued, saying: "Today, production has increased to 25,000 paintings per day, with a total production of 5 million paintings, of which one million are in storage."

Samir pointed out that "in 2025, more than one million license plates were produced, and the import of vehicles, which was previously managed haphazardly by companies, was organized."

Regarding the imposition of violations, Samir confirmed that "currently, violations are imposed on vehicles, but in the future, violations will be on the driver's license, as a system of driver violation will be adopted, and points will be deducted from the driver's balance, and the matter may reach the point of withdrawing the license and preventing him from driving the vehicle."

He pointed out that "the number of vehicles registered since 2003 has reached more than 8 million vehicles, while the number of vehicles registered since 2010 within the national project has reached more than 4 million vehicles, in addition to more than 600,000 wheels."

For his part, the Director of Media at the Ministry of Interior, Brigadier General Miqdad Miri, said during the same conference that “things are proceeding very smoothly, and we have not recorded any violations regarding the Rajab visit. The security and traffic plan is well-prepared, and tomorrow, Wednesday, will be of the utmost necessity.” He explained that “the plan is flexible and did not include any road closures, except for some limited closures in the Kadhimiyah and Adhamiyah areas, and the city of Kadhimiyah has been declared a weapons-free zone.”

He added that "some markets witnessed abnormal movements in the dollar exchange rate, as we observed attempts by some people to manipulate the currency and prices," noting that "91 people involved in currency manipulation, 113 people manipulating the prices of basic commodities, and 34 accused of manipulating medicines were arrested, and a pledge was taken from 1,300 people, including pharmacy and store owners, as the campaign continues to apprehend violators."

He stressed that "fines are imposed on violators, and the movement of life is proceeding in an organized and ideal manner. The fines have recently included many details, and have been linked to updates on the Ain Iraq application."

Regarding vehicle traffic and traffic accidents, Miri pointed out that “in 2025, the General Traffic Directorate issued 14 statements focusing on regulating vehicle traffic, with a focus on points where accidents occur. The directorate was also supplied with modern patrols with 818 Toyota Cruise vehicles and 473 other vehicles, to be used in the outer sections, bringing the total number of vehicles in these sections to 1,354 vehicles.”

He continued: “The directorate was also supplied with 20 mobile vehicles for distributing traffic signs, and traffic barriers were created on the external roads. Additionally, a contract was signed for 100 fixed and mobile radars to monitor the external roads from Basra to Nineveh.”

Miri confirmed that "the cameras and radars have been started operating in Baghdad, distributed across 109 intersections and highways, which will contribute to reducing traffic accidents, and the first phase, which includes 40 intersections, will be completed."

Miri pointed out that "877 affiliates were appointed on a contractual basis, and this number had a clear and positive impact on the street and traffic."

He stressed that “all the procedures and points mentioned contributed to the decrease in the accident rate in 2025, as the accident rate in Iraq decreased compared to 2024 to 5.9, which is a rate that is considered better than other countries.”  LINK

Dollar opens lower in Baghdad, Erbil markets

2026-01-13 02:48   Shafaq News– Baghdad/ Erbil  The US dollar opened Tuesday’s trading at a lower rate in Baghdad and Erbil markets, according to a Shafaq News market survey.

In Baghdad, the dollar opened at 146,400 Iraqi dinars per 100 dollars, down by 400 dinars from the previous session, when it closed at 146,800 dinars per 100 dollars at the Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges. Local exchange shops in the capital sold the dollar at 147,000 dinars per 100 dollars, while buying prices stood at 146,000 dinars.

In Erbil, the dollar edged lower at the opening of trading, with selling prices reaching 145,950 dinars per 100 dollars and buying prices at 145,850 dinars. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-opens-lower-in-Baghdad-Erbil-markets

Gold prices slide in Baghdad, Erbil markets

2026-01-13 04:00   Shafaq News– Baghdad/ Erbil  On Tuesday, gold prices edged lower in Baghdad and Erbil markets, according to a survey by Shafaq News Agency.

Gold prices on Baghdad's Al-Nahr Street recorded a selling price of 940,000 IQD per mithqal (equivalent to five grams) for 21-carat gold, including Gulf, Turkish, and European varieties, with a buying price of 936,000 IQD. The same gold had sold for 943,000 dinars on Monday.

The selling price for 21-carat Iraqi gold was 911,000 IQD, with a buying price of 907,000 IQD.

In jewelry stores, the selling price per mithqal of 21-carat Gulf gold ranged between 940,000 and 950,000 IQD, while Iraqi gold sold for between 910,000 and 920,000 IQD.

In Erbil, 22-carat gold was sold at 987,000 IQD per mithqal, 21-carat gold at 941,000 IQD, and 18-carat gold at 807,000 IQD.   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-prices-slide-in-Baghdad-Erbil-markets-1

Iraq Ranks Third Among US Oil Suppliers In December At 7M+ Barrels

2026-01-13 06:21   Shafaq News– Baghdad/ Washington   Iraq, OPEC’s second-largest oil producer, exported 7.533 million barrels of crude oil to the United States in December 2025, according to data released Tuesday by the US Energy Information Administration (EIA).

During the month, Iraqi crude shipments averaged 306,000 barrels per day (bpd) in the first week, 181,000 bpd in the second, 357,000 bpd in the third, and 129,000 bpd in the fourth week. The figures showed a decline from November, when exports totaled more than 7.9 million barrels.

Iraq, EIA affirmed, ranked third among oil suppliers to the US during December, behind Canada and Saudi Arabia.

Among Arab exporters, Iraq placed second, after Saudi Arabia, which shipped 9.796 million barrels, while Libya came third with 2.139 million barrels.  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-ranks-third-among-US-oil-suppliers-in-December-at-7M-barrels

Finance Ministry: Iraq Achieved The Second Highest Level Of Improvement Globally In International Governance Indicators.

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad   The Ministry of Finance announced on Tuesday that Iraq has achieved the second highest level of improvement globally in international governance indicators.

The ministry said in a statement received by “Al-Eqtisad News”, that “Iraq has achieved a new international accomplishment within the World Governance Indicators (WGI) report issued in December 2024, according to Fitch and Standard & Poor’s agencies, as Iraq recorded the second highest improvement score globally on an annual basis, reflecting the success of the reform steps adopted by the government in state institutions.”

She noted that “official data from global indicators revealed a tangible improvement in Iraq’s global governance scores, rising from 29.5 points in 2023 to 32.5 points in 2024. This increase represents a positive indicator of the effectiveness of the financial and administrative policies adopted to enhance transparency and efficiency.”

She explained that "according to the report, the largest annual gains were concentrated in three vital sectors, namely: Government efficiency: which recorded an increase of (+4.6 points), Anti-corruption: which made progress of (+4.3 points), Regulatory quality: which increased by (+4.0 points)."

She explained that “progress was not limited to administrative aspects only, but governance indicators pointed to a remarkable and comprehensive improvement in several key areas, which enhances the confidence of the international community, donors and investors in the Iraqi environment, namely: freedom of expression and accountability, political stability and absence of violence, efficiency of government performance, in addition to organizational quality, the rule of law and combating corruption.”

The report indicated that "this remarkable progress came as a result of the commitment to the economic reform program, working to automate financial procedures and strengthen the principles of e-governance, as well as continuing efforts to maintain this positive outcome in a way that serves the supreme national interest and enhances Iraq's position in international indicators."   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64508