Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Thursday Evening 7-9-26

IMF Sees Iraq Contraction Before 2027 Rebound

2026-07-09 11:04   Shafaq News- Baghdad   Middle East and Central Asia growth is projected to fall to 0.7% in 2026 before rebounding to 6.5% in 2027, with Iraq among the commodity producers expected to contract sharply this year, the International Monetary Fund said.

In its July World Economic Outlook update, the IMF grouped Iraq with Kuwait and Qatar as the producers most affected by disruptions to energy output and transport, linking the downturn to a longer closure of the Strait of Hormuz than it assumed in April.

The Fund cut this year’s regional forecast by 1.2 percentage points and raised next year’s by 1.9 points, reflecting a deeper short-term hit and a larger expected rebound.

Saudi Arabia is expected to be less affected because of more diversified export routes, with growth projected at 1.7% in 2026 and 5.5% in 2027.

Globally, the IMF projected growth at 3.0% in 2026 and 3.4% in 2027, saying the outlook remains uneven and exposed to developments in the Middle East. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/IMF-sees-Iraq-contraction-before-2027-rebound

Iraq detains Rafidain Bank officials over $1.22M fraud

2026-07-09 17:08   Shafaq News- Al-Diwaniyah  A joint force from Iraq's Federal Commission of Integrity and a SWAT unit arrested several Rafidain Bank officials in the southern province of Al-Diwaniyah on Thursday over a suspected currency manipulation operation that authorities believe resulted in the embezzlement of about 1.6 billion Iraqi dinars ($1.22M), a source told Shafaq News.

The investigation uncovered the fraudulent replacement of banknotes originally denominated at 50,000 Iraqi dinars ($38.15) with 1,000-dinar notes, enabling the theft.

Authorities are continuing efforts to identify all those involved and recover the stolen funds.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-detains-Rafidain-Bank-officials-over-1-22M-fraud

Iraq Signs Hamrin Oil Field Development Deal With US Firm

2026-07-09 08:16   Shafaq News- Baghdad  Iraq’s state-owned North Oil Company (NOC) signed a contract on Thursday with US-based HKN Energy to develop the Hamrin oil field spanning Kirkuk and Saladin provinces, with peak crude production projected at 140,000 barrels.

Oil Minister Basim Mohammed Khudair Al-Abadi said the agreement supports the government’s strategy to maximize investment in the country’s oil and gas resources, meet domestic energy demand, and increase exports, noting that the project is also expected to produce 40 million cubic feet of associated gas per day (MMcf/d), which will supply the field’s operational needs, while surplus volumes will be reinjected to maintain reservoir pressure instead of being flared.

Al-Abadi also stressed the government’s efforts to attract major international energy companies, particularly from the United States and Europe, under internationally recognized standards. The project, he added, would generate jobs for Iraqi workers and create opportunities for local companies.

“The Ministry will provide support to the company, and signing the contract is a message to all international companies that the domestic investment environment is an attractive environment for investment.”

Hamrin is one of northern Iraq’s largest undeveloped oil fields. The Oil Ministry signed a memorandum of understanding with HKN Energy in mid-2025 to develop the field, initially targeting production of about 60,000 barrels per day while capturing associated gas for power generation.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-signs-Hamrin-oil-field-development-deal-with-US-firm

Basrah Crudes Rise Following US Strikes On Iran

2026-07-09 02:30 Shafaq News- Basrah   Iraq's Basrah crude rose more than 8% on Thursday, tracking gains in global oil prices after US strikes on Iran, according to oil price data reviewed by Shafaq News.

Basrah Heavy crude rose 8.49% to $49.22 per barrel, while Basrah Medium crude gained 8.11% to $51.32 per barrel.

Brent crude futures rose 86 cents, or 1.1%, to $78.88 a barrel by 0352 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures gained 85 cents, or 1.2%, to $74.37 a barrel.

OPEC's basket also rose to $72.36 per barrel, while UAE's Murban crude gained 6.67% to $73.57 per barrel.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Basrah-crudes-rise-following-US-strikes-on-Iran 

Iran: US Attack Targeted Strategic Bridge Within Trade Route With China

Arab and International   Economy News - Follow-up   Iran’s Fars news agency reported on Thursday that nighttime U.S. attacks targeted a railway bridge in northern Iran, damaging an important trade link with China and Russia.

The agency said that this route, which passes through Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, is an important land route to China, and its importance increased during the US blockade imposed this year on Iran's ports in the Gulf, while the agency "Maher" that the volume of Chinese shipments through this route has been increased three times.

According to Iranian agencies, Russia has also been using this route to transport goods to Iran since ⁠Late 2025.

The agency pointed out that "it is expected that the repairs of the bridge will be completed quickly.

Earlier today, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards confirmed that the United States launched a cruise missile attack this morning on the railway bridge "Ak Tiki Khan", a strategic part of the China-Turkmenistan-Iran railway corridor, located in the Akkala region of the northern border province of Golstan. The Revolutionary Guards vowed an "overwhelming" response to the attack.

Local authorities said the attack did not result in any injuries

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=71175

Revolutionary Guards Navy: Any US Intervention In Determining The Course Of Navigation In Hormuz Will Be Met With A "Decisive Response"

Arab and International    Economy News - Follow-up   Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Navy on Thursday threatened a “decisive response” if the United States intervened to determine the routes in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Navy said in a statement: The adventures of the US military will present the interests of the countries benefiting from the Strait of Hormuz to serious danger, and will seriously impede the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

“Foreigners have no interest in the Strait of Hormuz

Iranian media reported on Thursday that explosions were heard in the coastal areas in the south of the country, while the Jordanian armed forces announced the response to Iranian missiles, while the Israeli authorities decided to close the airports after detecting air threats.

Iran's Mehr news agency said the explosions were in the territorial waters off the city of Bandar Abbas, and air defenses had been activated in the city.

Iranian state television reported the fall of a U.S. missile that targeted the vicinity of the Bushehr nuclear plant.

In addition, the Jordanian armed forces announced the shooting down of 8 missiles fired from Iran towards the Kingdom, stressing the readiness of its forces to deal with any threat to the country.

In turn, the Israeli authorities decided to close the airports after air threats were detected, and rockets penetrated Jordanian airspace adjacent to Israel

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=71173

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Evening 7-9-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

BIS Says Tokenization Is the Future of Global Finance as Stablecoin Risks Grow

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) is calling for a new generation of global financial infrastructure built around tokenization while warning that today's stablecoins, in their current form, are not suitable as the foundation of the future monetary system.

 Overview

• The BIS says tokenization could transform payments, securities settlement, and cross-border finance while preserving trust in money.

• The report warns that current stablecoin models contain structural weaknesses that could threaten financial stability if widely adopted.

• Central banks and commercial banks are being encouraged to modernize the existing financial system rather than replace it, accelerating the shift toward programmable digital finance.

Key Developments

1. BIS Endorses Tokenized Financial Infrastructure

The BIS concluded that tokenization represents one of the most significant technological advances in modern finance. Rather than creating an entirely new monetary system, the organization recommends integrating tokenized assets and programmable payments into today's regulated banking framework.

2. Stablecoins Face Increased Global Scrutiny

While acknowledging that stablecoins have demonstrated faster and more programmable payments, the BIS warned that many existing stablecoins lack important characteristics required of trusted money, including interoperability, resilience, and consistent redemption at face value.

3. Unified Ledger Concept Continues to Advance

The BIS highlighted continued development of a "Unified Ledger" architecture capable of bringing together tokenized commercial bank deposits, central bank money, and tokenized real-world assets on interoperable digital platforms. Officials believe this approach could significantly improve settlement efficiency while maintaining financial stability.

4. Cross-Border Payments Remain a Priority

Projects such as Project Agorá continue advancing international testing among major central banks and commercial banks. The initiative aims to reduce settlement delays, lower transaction costs, and improve cross-border payments using tokenized financial infrastructure.

5. Policymakers Call for Global Coordination

The BIS emphasized that international cooperation will be essential to establish common standards governing tokenization, digital money, and financial interoperability. Without coordinated regulation, fragmented digital financial systems could introduce new systemic risks.

 Why It Matters

The BIS serves as the coordinating institution for many of the world's central banks, making its recommendations highly influential. Its latest report signals that tokenization is moving beyond experimentation and into the next phase of financial infrastructure development, where regulation, interoperability, and institutional participation become the primary focus.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Foreign currency holders should monitor the continued development of tokenized financial infrastructure because it may reshape how international payments, settlements, and cross-border liquidity operate in the years ahead. While today's report does not directly affect currency valuations, it reflects the ongoing modernization of the global financial system.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 2 – Trade

The expansion of tokenized cross-border payment systems could reduce settlement times, lower transaction costs, and improve the efficiency of international commerce.

• Pillar 4 – Technology

The BIS continues to support tokenization and programmable financial infrastructure as foundational technologies for the next generation of regulated global financial markets.

This is not just about digital assets—it reflects how central banks and global financial institutions are redesigning the infrastructure that could support faster payments, tokenized assets, and more efficient international finance for decades to come.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Bank for International Settlements – The Path to the Next-Generation Monetary and Financial System Lies in Safeguarding Trust in Money

• Reuters – Top Central Banks Forge Ahead With Cross-Border Tokenization Project Agorá

~~~~~~~~~~

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COMEX Gold & Silver Drain: Price Is Misdirection | Andy Schectman

COMEX Gold & Silver Drain: Price Is Misdirection | Andy Schectman

Soar Financially and Miles Franklin Media:  7-9-2026

Andy Schectman joins Soar Financially to discuss why central banks are aggressively buying gold, why trust in the U.S. financial system is eroding, and why silver may be entering a major new phase.

China, BRICS, Treasury markets, COMEX deliveries, and the future of gold-backed trade all take center stage in this conversation.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Intro

00:40 What Really Caused the Gold Selloff?

03:10 Why COMEX Is Sending a Different Signal

06:02 Price Is the Ultimate Tool of Misdirection

08:43 Is the Dollar Really Strong?

10:05 Who Is Setting the Gold Price?

12:15 Has the Physical Market Recovered?

15:06 Are Investors Finally Buying Again?

16:15 The Biggest Money Is Moving Elsewhere

20:24 Why the Fed Narrative Is Wrong

25:03 What Could Send Gold Much Higher?

27:23 Final Thoughts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIRuV-cVhcI

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Afternoon 7-9-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

IMF Cuts Global Growth Forecast as War and Inflation Reshape the Global Economy 

The International Monetary Fund has lowered its global growth outlook, warning that geopolitical conflict, elevated energy prices, and growing economic fragmentation are creating new challenges for the world economy and increasing uncertainty for financial markets.

 Overview 

• The IMF lowered its 2026 global economic growth forecast from 3.1% to 3.0%, citing geopolitical tensions, higher energy prices, and trade fragmentation.

• Inflation is expected to remain elevated through 2026, driven largely by higher oil prices following Middle East instability.

• The report warns that renewed conflict or further disruptions to global trade could slow growth even more, highlighting the fragile state of the global economy.

Key Developments 

1. IMF Lowers Global Growth Outlook 

The International Monetary Fund reduced its forecast for 2026 global economic growth to 3.0%, reflecting the impact of geopolitical uncertainty, weaker international trade, and slower investment. Although the IMF expects growth to improve in 2027, it projects expansion will remain below recent historical averages.

2. Higher Energy Prices Continue to Drive Inflation 

The IMF expects global inflation to average about 4.7% in 2026, with much of the increase attributed to higher energy costs following conflict in the Middle East. Elevated fuel prices continue to place upward pressure on transportation, manufacturing, and food costs worldwide.

3. Strait of Hormuz Remains a Critical Risk 

The IMF's forecast assumes that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz gradually returns to normal and that oil markets stabilize. However, officials cautioned that any renewed disruption could significantly weaken growth and trigger additional inflationary pressures.

4. Trade Fragmentation Continues to Slow Growth 

The IMF warned that increasing trade fragmentation and geopolitical divisions continue to weigh on business investment, global supply chains, and international commerce. Economies dependent on imported energy and commodities remain particularly vulnerable.

5. Central Banks Face a More Difficult Path

With inflation remaining above many central bank targets, policymakers may be forced to maintain restrictive monetary policies longer than expected. The IMF emphasized that clear communication and prudent policy decisions will be essential as economic uncertainty persists.

 Why It Matters

The IMF's outlook is one of the most closely watched assessments of the global economy. Slower growth combined with persistent inflation creates a challenging environment for governments, businesses, and central banks as they attempt to balance economic stability with long-term financial sustainability.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders 

Foreign currency investors should closely monitor global growth forecasts, inflation, and central bank policy. These factors influence exchange rates, capital flows, sovereign debt, and the timing of broader monetary reforms that could affect international financial markets.

Implications for the Global Reset 

• Pillar 1 – Debt 

Persistently higher inflation and slower growth make it more difficult for governments to manage rising debt levels, increasing pressure for fiscal reforms and more sustainable public finances.

• Pillar 2 – Trade

The IMF warns that trade fragmentation and geopolitical tensions continue to weaken global commerce, reinforcing efforts by many nations to diversify supply chains and reduce dependence on traditional trade routes.

• Pillar 5 – Energy 

The outlook highlights how energy security remains a major driver of inflation and economic stability, with the Strait of Hormuz continuing to play a critical role in global oil markets.

This is not just about a lower economic forecast—it highlights how debt, trade, and energy security are becoming increasingly interconnected as the global financial system adapts to a more uncertain and fragmented world.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters – IMF lowers 2026 global growth forecast to 3%, sees rebound in 2027

• International Monetary Fund – World Economic Outlook Update: Global Economy in the Cross Currents of War and Technology

~~~~~~~~~~

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The Next Phase Of Shrinkflation: Rolling Blackouts

The Next Phase Of Shrinkflation: Rolling Blackouts

Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black / Sovereign Man  July 9, 2026

The lights went on at approximately 3pm on September 4, 1882 in New York City. 

Thomas Edison (with major funding from JP Morgan) had spent roughly two years building the first-ever commercial power plant, located in Manhattan’s financial district. Its total capacity was about 600 kilowatts… barely enough to power a single rack of GPUs today. 

But at the time it was nothing short of miraculous. 

Edison’s coal-fired DC power plant initially served just 82 customers, and electricity was nothing more than a luxury flex by the ultra-wealthy. 

But over time-- especially after Westinghouse and Tesla’s alternating current became the gold standard-- electrification rates in the United States skyrocketed. 

At the turn of the 20th century, hardly anyone had electricity in their homes. By 1920, it was about 35%. By the time the Great Depression hit in 1929, roughly 70% of US homes were electrified, and urban areas were nearly 85%. 

The systems were surprisingly reliable given the rudimentary technology of the day. Blackouts were not infrequent, but they were generally short and localized, often just affecting a few streets or houses. 

And typically the biggest reason for a short, localized blackout was simply because electrical demand was increasing more rapidly than the grid could create new supply. More and more homes were being electrified, and, after World War II, consumer appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners began consuming more power. We’ll come back to that. 

In response, the industry began looking for efficiencies to be able to scale more quickly. They built larger, beefier power plants and connected their independent grids to be able to share reserves and load balance. 

In short, they planned for speed and scale. Not resilience. And the end result was an incredibly complex network that was highly vulnerable to systemic failure. 

That failure first came at 5:16pm on November 9, 1965: a minor maintenance issue near Niagara Falls triggered a chain reaction across the entire grid. 30 million people went without power-- most until the next morning, some for a few days. 

It was a wake-up call… and the first catastrophic grid failure of many more to come. So, naturally, the government stepped in to “fix” it.  

With the electrical grid’s vulnerabilities laid bare, Congress held inquiries and hearings. New rules and regulations were passed. And, before long, the US electrical industry became a confusing alphabet soup of state, local, and federal authorities-- ISOs and RTOs, FERC, PJM, MISO, CAISO, SPP, and so many more. 

Layers and layers of bureaucratic agencies didn’t fix anything. But technology was quite fortunately on America’s side, and over the past few decades, advances (like LED bulbs) made consumer appliances more energy efficient. Power plants also became more productive. 

In fact, today the US consumes less electricity per capita than it did in 1995. And the grid produces much more power. 

But this balance is starting to change rapidly. 

We all know the story of data centers and their insatiable appetites for energy. Electricity is such a critical input, in fact, that data centers are typically described by their power consumption. 

For example, Softbank recently announced 5GW of new data centers in France.  The famous StarGate project in the US is targeting 10GW. Facebook is building a 5GW data center in Louisiana. 

And various plans over the next few years go in to several hundred gigawatts. 

This trend is similar to the 1950s-- utility companies struggled to keep up with surging demand from US consumers who were plugging in air conditioners and refrigerators for the first time. 

But supply and demand in the electricity market is a funny thing. Demand can surge very quickly… just like we’ve seen over the past year or so. But electrical supply grows more slowly. 

New power plants take years to build. Thanks to the aforementioned alphabet soup, the regulatory burden alone is a minefield. 

And most electrical producers aren’t willing to go through the effort, risk, and capital expenditure unless they’re sure the new power plant will be profitable. And profitability depends on the price of electricity. 

That’s where politicians and the regulators have stepped in to screw it all up. 

Naturally, with demand soaring and supply constrained, electricity prices are rising. You’d think that politicians would respond by making it easier for utilities to build new power plants, i.e. reduce the regulatory and permitting process to increase electricity supply. 

But no. Instead, they’re capping prices. 

Last year, a whole lot of state officials and federal regulators got together to set a ceiling for certain wholesale electricity prices to roughly $333 per megawatt-day. 

Clearly they’re responding to voters’ demands to rein in inflation and reduce the cost of living. 

Unfortunately $333/MW-day isn’t high enough to justify investment in new power plants. 

Existing power plants are old. Sometimes extremely old. They already own their land, and their construction loans are all paid off. So, $333/MW-day is sufficient for them to pay for fuel, conduct maintenance and turn a small profit. 

But $333 isn’t enough to build a new plant-- to cover the additional costs of construction, land purchases, permitting, etc. 

In fact, the regulators themselves estimate that electricity prices need to be about $500/MW-day (i.e. 50% higher) to justify investment in new power plants. 

This means there won’t be enough new commercial power plants built to sufficiently supply the grid. In fact, the northeast grid (known as PJM) is already in a 6.5 GW deficit against its own reserve requirement for the first time ever, increasing the chance of failure next summer. 

This is essentially a form of shrinkflation. i.e. paying the same amount of money but getting less for it. We’ve all seen it at grocery stores and restaurants-- same price, smaller portions. 

In this case, electricity prices are supposedly remaining flat. But you’re getting less for it-- potential grid failure. All because the maze of political and regulatory authorities won’t do the obvious thing and make it easy for new power plants to be built.

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

https://www.schiffsovereign.com/trends/the-next-phase-of-shrinkflation-rolling-blackouts-155441/?inf_contact_key=a13591c7ee5ccd87253dae2dac591f1fae788fd53dbd8435c82ea4a7febc39e6

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Thursday Morning 7-9-26

IMF Expects Severe Contraction In Iraq’s Economy In 2026

Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projected on Thursday that Iraq’s economy will be the most hit by oil and transportation disruptions in the Middle East and Central Asia in 2026.

The IMF also predicted a robust economic rebound in 2027, when energy market conditions improve and commerce resume, local news outlet Shafaq News reported.

In its recent World Economic Outlook report, the IMF projected that Middle Eastern and Central Asian countries will see a sharp drop in growth to 0.7 percent in 2026, before rebounding to 6.5 percent in 2027. These forecasts assume that energy interruptions will last longer than previously predicted.

The economies of Iraq, Kuwait, and Qatar, which are heavily reliant on commodities, will experience significant impacts from disruptions in energy production and transportation. These nations are expected to face an economic downturn in 2026, followed by growth rates exceeding ten percent in 2027.

The anticipated fall in 2026 will mainly result from the disruption in oil production and distribution, especially by those nations that depend heavily on energy exports, but the recovery in 2027 will be brought about by a reduction of these shocks and resumption of business activities.

The IMF’s latest prediction reduces the region’s growth forecast for 2026 by 1.2 percent from the April report, while the 2027 forecast is lifted by about 1.9 percent, suggesting expectations of a stronger rebound.

The IMF, on the other hand, expects Saudi Arabia to remain largely unaffected due to its more diverse export channels, with an economic growth of 1.7 percent in 2026 and 5.5 percent in 2027.

https://www.iraqinews.com/iraq/imf-expects-severe-contraction-in-iraqs-economy-in-2026/

Iraq Tightens Iran Dollar Controls As US Restarts Shipments

Iraq   IraqiNews   July 9, 2026  Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) — The United States has restarted supplies of U.S. dollar banknotes to Iraq after Baghdad agreed to take further steps to stop American cash from reaching Iran and Iran-backed armed organizations, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing Iraqi and United States officials.

The outbreak of the Iran war in late February froze shipments of physical dollars from Iraq’s oil revenues held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, enforced by the U.S. Treasury Department, and shipments were suspended for some four months, putting pressure on Baghdad’s cash-based economy.

Under the deal, Iraq promised to tighten its financial system, including stricter regulation of currency exchange firms and efforts to prevent U.S. cash from reaching Iran or Iran-backed militias via salaries and other financial channels.

Iraq agreed to put in place extra protections to prevent armed organizations from abusing its banking system, a U.S. Treasury official told the newspaper, and shipments resumed. Iraqi authorities said dollar payments had resumed but did not disclose the new terms publicly.

During the delay, the Treasury Department canceled at least two cash shipments, including one for around $500 million, before delivery resumed late last month, The Wall Street Journal said.

The deal comes as Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi aims to boost economic ties with Washington while pushing domestic banking reforms.

Al-Zaidi is set to go to the United States later this month to have meetings with President Donald Trump, the newspaper added.

The report also mentioned that the Trump administration has pushed Baghdad to limit the role of Iran-backed militias, including steps to tighten monitoring of cash flows and increase official control over armed organizations.

Analysts told The Wall Street Journal that there are big political obstacles to enacting such regulations, given the entrenched role of militia groups in Iraq’s political and security scene.

Since 2003, Iraq has depended on supplies of U.S. dollar banknotes since most of its economy is still cash-based.

Access to actual dollars is a key source of liquidity for Iraq’s banking sector since oil profits are kept at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York before being released to Iraq.

The new deal is part of a wider push by Washington to tighten financial controls in Iraq while reducing the ability to evade sanctions and move dollars illegally across borders, as Baghdad grapples with balancing its strong economic links with the United States and neighboring Iran. https://www.iraqinews.com/iraq/iraq-tightens-iran-dollar-controls-as-us-restarts-shipments/

After the Decline... A New Rise In Dollar Prices In Iraq Today

Published Sumerian News, the exchange rates of the dollar against the dinar in the Iraqi local markets on Thursday, July 9, 2026. The sale price is 154500 dinars for 100 dollars.

The purchase price is 153650 dinars for 100 dollars.  It was Cabinet On February 7, 2022, it was announced that the dollar exchange rate would be adjusted to 1320 dinars to the dollar. LINK

Between High And Low.. The Latest Update Of Gold Prices In Iraq

Alsumaria News – Economy  Published Sumerian News Foreign and Iraqi gold prices in the local markets in the capital Baghdad Today is Thursday, July 9, 2026.

The sale price of Iraqi gold karat 21 amounted to 857 thousand dinars, compared to 853 thousand dinars for purchase.

In the jewelers' shops, the selling price of the gold weight of the Gulf karat 21 ranged between 890 thousand and 900 thousand dinars.

Global gold prices continue to rise in record highs, with investors increasingly confident that the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates in September, as well as rising economic and geopolitical uncertainty, along with expectations of a reduction in US interest rates. LINK

Globally. Oil Prices Continue To Rise In Early Trading
Sumerian News - Economy Oil prices rose on Thursday after United States New strikes against Iran To diminish hopes of ending the war and reopening Strait of Hormuz Completely.

‎By 00:54 GMT, crude futures had risen.Brent" at 1% to $78.8 per barrel. The futures contracts for West crude increased. Texas The US broker is 1.01% to $74.26.

‎Before that, the two benchmarks at the settlement reached their highest levels in more than two weeks after the US president threatened Donald Trump Bombing Iran Last night.
‎He said U S Army He carried out new strikes on Iran in order to keep Strait of Hormuz vitality is open to navigation, hours after saying Trump The interim agreement to end the war is “over.” LINK

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Late Wednesday Evening 7-8-26

Al-Mustaqilla Reveals: 3 Key Issues In Al-Zaidi's Visit To Washington

July 8, 2026Last updated: July 8, 2026   Al-Mustaqilla - As attention turns to Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zubaidi's visit to Washington on July 15, information obtained by Al-Mustaqilla reveals that the economic agenda will be at the forefront of the talks, with an American focus on financial files related to Iran, while the file of combating corruption is absent from the visit's agenda.

According to an informed source, the talks will focus on three main axes,

The first of which is the issue of weapons and restricting them to the state, while the second

and third axes will be purely economic, relating to monitoring the movement of the dollar and Iranian economic interests inside Iraq.

The source indicates that Washington will discuss with the Iraqi side mechanisms to curb dollar smuggling to Iran and tighten oversight of the Iraqi financial system to prevent hard currency from reaching entities subject to US sanctions. This comes amid continued US pressure on Baghdad to reform the banking sector and strengthen financial compliance.  

The third axis relates to Iranian economic influence within Iraq, whether through companies or trade and financial transfer networks. This is an issue that the United States believes is directly linked to the effectiveness of the sanctions imposed on Tehran and to the stability of the Iraqi financial system.

According to the source, the visit's agenda does not include any item related to combating corruption or opening major corruption files, despite the campaign announced by the government during the past period. This raises questions about the priorities of the talks with the American administration, which seem to be focused on financial security, the movement of the dollar, and economic relations with Iran more than on internal reform files.

Observers believe that the nature of these files reflects Washington’s interest in securing the Iraqi financial system and preventing its use as a loophole to circumvent sanctions, at a time when Baghdad is seeking to maintain the stability of the dinar’s exchange rate and ensure the continued flow of dollars through official channels, amid escalating financial and regional challenges. https://mustaqila.com/المستقلة-تكشف-3-ملفات-رئيسية-بزيارة-الز/

Zaidi In Front Of The "Big Whales" Test .. Washington Is Waiting To Prove Seriousness In The Files Of Corruption And Weapons Nearly $300 Billion Has Fled Out Of Iraq

Baghdad / Tamim al-Hassan  Before Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi landed in Washington in mid-July, Baghdad seems to have found itself in front of a sensitive political test, entitled the funeral of former Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and a number of his family members in Iraq.

The event, which is supposed to fall within the framework of religious ceremonies, quickly turned into a political file where the calculations of Baghdad, Tehran and Washington intersect, to become one of the first decades before the upcoming meeting between Zaidi and US President Donald Trump.

Although the visit to the White House comes amid signs of improved relations between Baghdad and Washington, it still faces serious questions about Zaidi’s ability to implement the commitments contained in the understandings concluded between the two sides in what has become known as the “June settlement.”

On the other hand, observers believe that the prime minister has made significant progress over the past week towards the US administration, after launching a wide campaign to prosecute officials accused of corruption, in a move seen as an attempt to prove the seriousness of the implementation of the pledges made to Washington.

Iranian Pressure. Iraqi Hesitation

A political source familiar with the agreement to hold the funeral of Khamenei in Iraq on Wednesday was not an easy decision within the government, but was preceded by hesitant discussions, before tilting the scales under Iranian pressure, supported by positions of forces in the coordination framework and armed factions.

The source, a deputy in one of the large Shiite parties, told Al-Mada, on condition of anonymity, that “Zaidi is aware that this file may put him in an embarrassing position in front of Trump during his upcoming visit to Washington.”

According to information circulating in the political circles, the funeral program has witnessed a remarkable amendment, as Baghdad was excluded from the schedule of the ceremony, after it was scheduled to hold a ceremony in the city of Al-Kadhimiya, to limit the visit to Najaf and Karbala, with the possibility of receiving the body of the guide at Najaf airport.

It is estimated that a large funeral ceremony in the capital may have turned into anti-American demonstrations, punctuated by chants and slogans targeting the US president, similar to the scenes that accompanied the funeral ceremony inside Iran.

US President Donald Trump has shown a clear interest in the funeral ceremony that began over the weekend in Iran.

Trump said in a press statement, commenting on the scenes that showed thousands of participants crying during the ceremony, that he was surprised by the size of the popular interaction, before adding: "Maybe those are fake tears."

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi arrived in Baghdad, in his first visit since the end of the last war in the region, in conjunction with the launch of what has become known as the "Dawn Campaign", which targeted deputies and officials accused of corruption last week.

According to the leak after the visit, Araqchi discussed with Iraqi officials the details of the funeral ceremony, while preliminary information indicated that Baghdad will be one of the main stations of the event.

But the Iraqi committee to organize the visit later quickly denied that information, before the features of the new program, which was limited to Najaf and Karbala, were later clarified.

Religious Rituals. No Political Calculations

On the other hand, former diplomat Ghazi Faisal provides a different reading of the file, as he believes that Washington, including President Trump, realizes that the funeral of the former Iranian leader does not fall within the official work of the Iraqi government, but falls within the framework of religious and sectarian rituals.

Faisal told Al-Mada that "Zaidi is concerned with running the government, while Khamenei's funeral is part of the religious traditions," adding that Baghdad's approval of the funeral ceremony in Najaf and Karbala "does not exceed being a response to religious traditions followed with religious or official figures or even ordinary citizens."

Faisal pointed out that Trump himself announced that Iran was given a week to complete the funeral ceremony, out of respect for this occasion, without exerting pressure related to negotiations between the two parties.

He believes that what happened represents a "temporary truce" to allow for the end of the ceremony, before the resumption of the negotiating track between Washington and Tehran.

The former diplomat concludes that the United States, as a multi-religious and multicultural country, usually respectfully views religious and sectarian diversity and associated rituals, making it unlikely that the funeral ceremony, in itself, will turn into a crisis in official relations between Baghdad and Washington, unless it is accompanied by messages or political positions beyond its religious dimension.

How Is Zaidi Being Seen In Washington Now?

On the image of Zaidi in the United States, the researcher on the American issue, Kato Saadullah, believes that Washington still gives Zaidi an important political opportunity, but at the same time links the continuation of this support to the extent of its ability to implement real reforms.

Saadullah told Al-Mada that the Prime Minister's visit comes at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, and coincides with the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, adding that Trump will be before that at the NATO conference in Ankara, to meet Zaidi after his return to Washington.

He points out that Trump has already announced his support for Zaidi and the current government, a position that has given Baghdad an important political margin, but this support, according to Saad Allah, will not be open or unconditional.

He adds that the US president, through his envoy Tom Barrack, informed the Iraqi government of a set of priorities that should be worked on if Baghdad wants to preserve the American cover.

Three American Priorities

Saadullah puts these priorities in three main files.

First, to end the phenomenon of weapons outside the framework of the state, and to dissolve militias and armed factions, thus restoring the state’s monopoly on force.

The second file is to fight corruption, which, according to the researcher, is the issue that Trump focuses on more than any other file, based on the conviction that corruption represents the gateway from which the rest of the Iraqi crises branch out.

The third file is the cessation of the smuggling of hard currency, and the closure of channels that drain the Iraqi financial reserves and feed financial networks linked abroad.
Is the Dawn Campaign enough?

Saadullah believes that the recent campaign launched by Zaidi against a number of those accused of corruption is an important step, but it still needs more evidence.

Will this campaign be enough paper that Zaidi carries to Washington to convince the US administration, Congress, and American institutions that he has already started the battle against corruption, or will it be read as late measures that do not live up to the challenges?

He believes that the answer to this question will largely determine the nature of the US position on the Iraqi government during the next phase.

Congress Calls Zaidi’s Actions A “Smug”!

Despite the initial U.S. welcome of recent moves, Saadullah points to the presence of powerful voices in Congress that continue to view with skepticism what is going on in Baghdad.

He cites the position of Congressman Joe Wilson, who criticized the Zaidi campaign, calling it a “joke” and considering it not a real confrontation with the system of corruption.

Saadullah recalls that Wilson went further when he published the names of prominent political figures, saying that any serious campaign should start from "big whales", and mentioned in his tweet Nouri al-Maliki, Hadi al-Amiri, and Qais al-Khazali.

Washington Exam

Saadullah believes that the task awaiting Zaidi in Washington will not be easy.

If he only presents the measures taken over the past week, he will likely not get a full American conviction.
If he succeeds in convincing the US administration that he will return to Baghdad to complete a broad campaign targeting senior corruption suspects, in parallel with practical steps to limit arms to the state, the chances of continued US support will increase significantly.

He added that the visit comes at a very sensitive economic time, as Iraq is facing a financial crisis as a result of the suspension of oil exports during the recent war with Iran, which made Baghdad more in need of loans and international financial support.

He stressed that obtaining funding from the World Bank or major financial institutions would be more difficult without US political cover, which gives the visit more importance than its diplomatic dimension.
Is the Syrian experience a repeat?

Saadullah argues that the nature of U.S. support will become clearer after the visit, questioning whether Trump will deal with Zaidi in the same way he treated Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa by linking support to a series of conditions and procedures.

He adds that if US support is already conditional, Baghdad will be required to show more decisive steps in the files of anti-corruption and disarmament, because these two files will remain the basic criterion for judging the performance of the government.

Observers view the visit as the culmination of the understandings reached by Zaidi with US envoy Tom Barrack during his visit to Baghdad last month, which became politically known as the "June settlement", which includes besieging Iranian influence and creating a wider environment for US investment inside Iraq.

The battle of corruption. Figures follow Zaidi to Washington

On the other hand, the former diplomat and head of the Iraqi Center for Strategic Studies, Ghazi Faisal, believes that the real battle facing the government of Ali al-Zaidi is the fight against corruption, stressing that the government has begun to pursue money laundering, smuggling and corruption networks, especially in the oil and electricity sectors, in addition to tracking financial networks in neighboring countries and Europe, including more than 264 defendants and their money.

Faisal pointed out that the World Bank has already talked about smuggling more than $ 300 billion out of Iraq, considering that dismantling these networks and recovering funds may take seven years or more, because of their association with banks and external companies and the merger of part of the money in the economies of other countries.

Faisal calls for a comprehensive audit of state institutions through international audit companies.
Faisal concludes that Washington is aware of the complexities of confronting corruption in Iraq, but it will look at any real progress in this file as the most important card that Zaidi can carry to the White House, because the success of the government will be measured by its actual results in combating corruption and recovering money, not just by launching campaigns    https://almadapaper.net/442372/

MilitiaMan & Crew- IRAQ DINAR UPDATE- Iraq Update: Sovereign Guarantees, US Focus & Long Game Ahead of Washington

MilitiaMan & Crew- IRAQ DINAR UPDATE- Iraq Update: Sovereign Guarantees, US Focus & Long Game Ahead of Washington

7-8-2026

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

No drama. No intrigue. No songs and dances. Just straight, factual news that I read and interpret to the best of my ability after being an avid Dinar investor and insanely obsessed Dinarian for over 15 years.

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dS6MDvhc1xI

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Evening 7-8-26

Government Advisor: No Change In The Dinar Exchange Rate Against The Dollar

Published on: July 9, 2026 at 12:19 AM Baghdad / Al-Mada  - The financial advisor to the Iraqi Prime Minister, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, denied the existence of any plan or program by the Iraqi government to change the exchange rate of the dinar against the dollar, stressing that this matter has not been discussed in any way.

Salih said yesterday, Wednesday, in a press statement, that "the issue of the currency's value has not been discussed in any way," in response to rumors circulating about the possibility of changing the official exchange rate of the dinar against the dollar.

The Iraqi Prime Minister's advisor, Ali al-Zidi, pointed out that "recently, several official statements and declarations have been issued denying all claims about any discussion or intention to change the current exchange rate of the dinar."

These statements come at a time when rumors about changing the official exchange rate of the dinar against the dollar resurface periodically in the markets of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

The exchange rate of 100 US dollars was fixed at 130,000 Iraqi dinars in Iraq's three-year budget law for the years 2023, 2024, and 2025. https://almadapaper.net/442717/

Iraq Resumes Cash Dollar Shipments... But Experts Downplay Their Impact On The Market!

7/8/2026   Baghdad/Ahmed Kawkab    The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, confirmed on Tuesday that Iraq has resumed receiving shipments of US dollars in cash, with each shipment amounting to approximately $500 million.

He explained that the regularity of these shipments strengthens the stability of the parallel market, affirms Baghdad's commitment to international compliance standards, and contributes to narrowing the gap with the official exchange rate, following a period of anxiety that accompanied regional developments.

 However, some experts believe that these shipments do not significantly impact the exchange rate, and that their previous suspension was more related to air transport issues than to any financial or political disputes.

Salih told Al-Mada newspaper, "These cash dollar shipments do not represent new funds, but rather are drawn from the Central Bank of Iraq's reserves deposited with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and are allocated to cover travelers' needs." He added, "The percentage of cash dollars does not exceed about 10% of total foreign transfers, and each shipment amounts to approximately $500 million, which is sufficient to meet normal demand."

He explained that “the regularity of these shipments is linked to Iraq’s full commitment to international compliance standards,” noting that “the Central Bank of Iraq is among the most cooperative institutions with the US Federal Reserve and the US Treasury Department in matters related to combating money laundering and terrorist financing.” He denied the validity of rumors about violations or exceptional restrictions imposed on Iraq.

Saleh revealed that “transporting cash dollars to Iraq is one of the most complex logistical operations, as it is carried out via private aircraft and under strict security and safety measures.” He explained that “these operations are executed according to precise arrangements that ensure the safety of the shipments until they reach the Central Bank.”

He pointed out that “the continued arrival of cash dollar shipments sends a positive signal to the parallel market and dispels rumors that disrupt exchange rates.”

He considered that “increasing the level of certainty among traders gradually leads to a narrowing of the gap between the official rate of 1,320 dinars per dollar and the parallel market rate, because the sustainability of compliance and the regularity of shipments are among the most important factors for the stability of the exchange market in Iraq.”

Saleh explained that “the dollar, despite being part of Iraq’s reserves, remains subject to US monetary policy and laws as it is the currency of another country.” He clarified that “the United States stipulates that its currency not be used in a manner that contradicts its foreign policy or national security, which requires countries dealing in dollars to adhere to international compliance standards.”

He added that “the decline in demand for cash dollars during the past period coincided with the security conditions in the region, as questions were raised in the United States about the continued need for shipments given the decline in travel, before supply operations returned to normal as Iraq continued to comply with international regulations.”

Saleh pointed out that “the purchase of cash dollars by travelers is currently subject to a comprehensive monitoring system through the FTR platform, which tracks international financial transfers and transactions. The data of each beneficiary is recorded accurately, including personal information and fingerprints, to prevent duplicate purchases or misuse of cash dollars.” He explained that “each traveler receives $3,000 per month for each trip through Iraqi airports.”

He added that “electronic financial transfers are already subject to strict international oversight through global banking systems, but cash dollars require additional procedures due to the sensitivity of their circulation.”

He explained that this “led to the adoption of advanced tracking systems that give Iraq a positive image before international institutions concerned with combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism.”

Saleh believes that “the development of economic relations between Baghdad and Washington, especially the Prime Minister’s upcoming visit to the United States, will positively impact the level of trust between the two sides and contribute to the stability of financial transactions.” He considers that “an improved financial climate directly impacts the stability of the local market.”

In a related context, specialists believe that linking these shipments to exchange rate fluctuations, or interpreting their suspension as a crisis with the United States, is not based on realistic data, but rather is related to air transport conditions and the security developments witnessed in the region.

Economic expert Duraid al-Anzi told Al-Mada that "the cash dollars shipped from the United States have no bearing on the Iraqi market, neither influencing the dollar's price nor its daily transactions. They do not enter the local market directly or indirectly because the incoming funds remain within the state's financial cycle and do not act as a tool to influence supply and demand within the markets."

He pointed out that "the claims made recently about a problem between Baghdad and Washington due to the halt in shipments were not supported by any official indicators," expressing surprise at "the talk of a crisis without any statement or position from either the US or Iraq confirming its existence." He considered the "suspension of civilian air traffic in the region during the war to be the natural reason behind the delay in the arrival of the shipments."

Al-Anzi added that "the resumption of dollar shipments coincided with the end of military operations and the resumption of air traffic," asking, "Were there any new meetings, understandings, secret communications, or political pressures?

We haven't heard of anything of the sort." He concluded that "interpreting the resumption of shipments as a result of a political breakthrough with the United States is an inaccurate reading of reality."

He explained that “the funds arriving in Iraq are part of its oil revenues and reserves deposited with the US Federal Reserve, and are transferred according to financial mechanisms that have been in place for years.” He clarified that “the shipping process is subject to continuous auditing and monitoring procedures and does not represent a new or exceptional financial resource.”

Al-Anzi believes that “the recent increases in the dollar exchange rate are due to increased demand from entities seeking to smuggle funds, which has created an artificial supply and demand crisis within the parallel market.” He emphasized that “this crisis is fabricated and is not related to the suspension of cash dollar shipments,” noting that “regional tensions, including talk of closing the Strait of Hormuz, were not sufficient on their own to cause these jumps in the exchange rate.”

He pointed out that “discussions about the value of the shipments should be understood within the context of government needs, and that the funds are transported by private planes in periodic installments as requested, with the cost of transportation being one million dollars, while transportation and insurance operations are subject to precise financial and logistical procedures.” He affirmed that “there is no fundamental change in the mechanism for supplying Iraq with dollars.”

He added that “the incoming funds are deposited into the accounts of the Central Bank and the government, and are included in the general budget,” while simultaneously warning that “a portion of these funds was previously subject to smuggling or misuse, which prompted the financial authorities to tighten control and tracking procedures.” He considered that “confronting this phenomenon represents the real challenge, not the regularity of dollar shipments themselves.”

Al-Anzi explained that “the stability of the Iraqi market will not be achieved simply by the arrival of dollar shipments, but rather requires addressing the internal imbalances that fuel the parallel market, tightening control over the movement of funds, and combating corruption and smuggling networks.”

He emphasized that “cash dollars are more closely linked to the budget and its allocations than to the activity of the local market, and that what happened during the past period was essentially a result of the suspension of civil aviation, not a result of political or financial disputes with the United States.” https://almadapaper.net/442545/

Minister Of Finance: We Are Continuing To Prepare The Draft 2027 Budget Law In Preparation For Submitting It To The Cabinet.

Baghdad ( NINA ) – Finance Minister Faleh al-Sari confirmed on Tuesday that the ministry is continuing to prepare the draft federal budget law for 2027, in preparation for submitting it to the Council of Ministers and then referring it to the Council of Representatives in the coming period.

A ministry statement indicated that "the Parliamentary Finance Committee, chaired by MP Uday Awad and attended by its members and a number of members of other parliamentary committees, hosted Finance Minister Faleh al-Sari and senior ministry officials today to discuss the financial and economic situation and the mechanisms for preparing the draft federal budget for 2027."

The statement added that "at the beginning of the meeting, the committee chairman welcomed the Finance Minister and senior officials, emphasizing the importance of strengthening cooperation and coordination between the legislative and executive branches to ensure the integration of roles in legislation and oversight, and to contribute to improving institutional performance."

The head of the Finance Committee affirmed, according to the statement, that "the committee is committed to supporting and enacting laws that contribute to addressing financial challenges, developing non-oil resources, and enhancing the state's financial sustainability.

" The statement continued, "During a meeting held at its headquarters, the Finance Committee listened to a detailed explanation of the country's financial and economic situation, with an emphasis on implementing appropriate solutions through legislation that ensures economic stability."

The Minister of Finance praised the Finance Committee's role in preparing the general budgets and exercising its oversight function, as well as its contribution to enacting laws related to financial and economic affairs.

He explained that "the ministry has set a number of priorities, foremost among them the automation of the ministry's operations, the establishment of a specialized body, and the adoption of a gradual transition from line-item budgeting to program-based budgeting."

Al-Sari indicated that "the 2027 budget proposal includes a phased plan for implementing program and performance-based budgeting, starting with a number of governorates as a pilot program, to be gradually expanded to include all of Iraq's governorates."

He reviewed the ministry's plan to repay public debt by reorganizing dealings with banks affiliated with the ministry, which will contribute to reducing the debt burden, enhancing financial stability, and supporting

The statement continued, "The meeting discussed mechanisms for maximizing public revenues and activating the ASYCUDA system, which contributes to raising the efficiency of customs administration and increasing state resources. It also explored the possibility of amending several related laws and working to establish a development fund and an energy fund to boost revenues and support the public treasury." The

meeting concluded with extensive discussions among committee members regarding financial and economic matters, emphasizing the importance of adopting solutions and procedures that achieve the public interest and enhance financial and economic stability in the country, in addition to finding appropriate solutions for the issue of contracts and daily wages. /End 8. https://ninanews.com/website/News/Details?key=1304720

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Wednesday Evening 7-8-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

Fed Minutes Reveal Deep Policy Divide as Middle East Tensions Add New Inflation Risks 

Newly released Federal Reserve meeting minutes show policymakers are increasingly divided over the path of interest rates, while renewed Middle East tensions and rising oil prices add fresh uncertainty to the global economic outlook.

 Overview 

• Federal Reserve officials remain divided over whether inflation is easing enough to justify future rate cuts, according to minutes released today.

• Renewed U.S.-Iran tensions pushed oil prices sharply higher, increasing concerns that inflationary pressures could persist.

• Global investors are reassessing monetary policy expectations, as higher energy costs could delay interest-rate reductions and influence financial markets worldwide.

Key Developments 

1. Fed Officials Split on Inflation Outlook

Minutes from the Federal Reserve's latest policy meeting reveal a clear divide among policymakers. Some officials believe inflation will continue moderating, while others expect persistent price pressures that could require higher interest rates for longer.

2. Oil Prices Complicate the Inflation Picture 

Markets reacted quickly after renewed tensions between the United States and Iran drove oil prices significantly higher. Rising energy costs could feed into transportation, manufacturing, and consumer prices, making the Fed's inflation challenge more difficult.

3. Markets Reprice Interest-Rate Expectations 

Global stocks weakened while bond yields and the U.S. dollar strengthened as investors adjusted expectations for future monetary policy. Markets now anticipate that any decline in interest rates may occur more slowly if inflation remains elevated.

4. Energy Security Remains a Global Financial Risk 

The renewed instability surrounding the Strait of Hormuz has reminded investors how quickly geopolitical events can affect global energy supplies, inflation, and economic growth. Although markets are not yet pricing in a prolonged disruption, uncertainty remains elevated.

5. Global Reset Themes Continue to Converge 

Today's developments illustrate how central bank policy, geopolitical risk, inflation, and energy markets continue to interact. Financial markets are increasingly responding to these interconnected forces rather than to isolated economic data alone.

 Why It Matters 

Interest-rate policy remains one of the most powerful drivers of the global financial system. If inflation remains elevated because of higher energy costs or geopolitical instability, central banks could delay easing monetary policy, affecting borrowing costs, investment, and economic growth worldwide.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders 

Currency values are heavily influenced by interest-rate expectations and inflation. Any delay in future rate cuts or renewed market volatility could affect exchange rates, capital flows, and the timing of broader monetary and financial reforms.

Implications for the Global Reset 

• Pillar 1 – Debt 

Higher-for-longer interest rates would increase borrowing costs for governments, businesses, and consumers, adding further pressure to already elevated global debt levels.

• Pillar 5 – Energy

Renewed uncertainty in the Middle East demonstrates how energy markets continue to influence inflation, monetary policy, and global financial stability, making energy security a critical factor in the evolving financial landscape.

This is not just about today's Federal Reserve meeting minutes—it highlights how central bank policy, geopolitical developments, and energy markets are increasingly shaping the transition toward a new global financial environment.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters – Stocks, bonds retreat after Trump says Iran MOU "is over"

• Associated Press – Fed minutes show officials deeply divided over future path of U.S. inflation    

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Wednesday Afternoon 7-8-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

Trump Ends Iran Ceasefire Framework as Markets Brace for Oil Shock 

Renewed tensions in the Middle East are rippling through global markets after President Donald Trump declared the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding "over," sending oil prices higher and increasing concerns about inflation, monetary policy, and global growth.

 Overview 

• President Trump announced that the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding has ended, reigniting uncertainty over Middle East stability.

• Oil prices surged more than 5%, while global stock markets declined as investors shifted toward safer assets.

• Investors are now watching Federal Reserve policy closely, as rising energy prices could complicate inflation and future interest-rate decisions.

Key Developments

1. Trump Declares Iran Agreement Over

President Trump announced that the memorandum of understanding that had provided the framework for ending hostilities with Iran was no longer in effect. The statement immediately increased geopolitical uncertainty and raised concerns about renewed conflict in the Gulf.

2. Oil Prices Jump on Supply Concerns

Brent crude oil climbed more than 5% as traders reacted to fears that renewed tensions could disrupt energy supplies moving through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil shipping routes.

3. Global Markets Turn Risk-Off

Equity markets weakened while investors moved toward traditional safe-haven assets. Higher energy prices renewed concerns that inflation could remain elevated longer than previously expected.

4. Federal Reserve Outlook Becomes More Complicated

Markets are awaiting the release of the Federal Reserve's meeting minutes for clues about future monetary policy. Rising oil prices could make it more difficult for policymakers to ease interest rates if inflation begins accelerating again.

5. IMF Warns Central Bank Communication Is Becoming More Important

Separately, the International Monetary Fund said it plans to engage with central banks regarding changes to monetary policy communication and forward guidance, emphasizing that clear communication becomes increasingly important during periods of geopolitical and economic uncertainty. 

Why It Matters 

Geopolitical instability can rapidly affect energy prices, inflation, financial markets, and central bank policy. Today's developments demonstrate how closely global finance remains tied to events in the Middle East and why investors continue monitoring both geopolitical risks and monetary policy.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Foreign currency investors should watch oil prices and central bank decisions carefully. Rising energy costs can strengthen inflation, influence interest-rate policy, increase currency volatility, and affect capital flows across global financial markets.

Implications for the Global Reset 

• Pillar 1 – Debt

Higher oil prices may delay interest-rate reductions, increasing borrowing costs for governments, businesses, and consumers while adding pressure to already elevated sovereign debt levels.

• Pillar 5 – Energy 

Renewed uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz highlights how energy security remains a critical driver of inflation, financial stability, and global economic growth.

This is not just about renewed Middle East tensions—it demonstrates how geopolitical events, energy markets, and central bank policy remain deeply interconnected in shaping the evolving global financial system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources 

• Reuters – Wall Street jittery and oil up as Trump says interim Iran deal "over"

• Reuters – IMF says hopes to engage on central banks' changes to forward guidance
  ‍ ‍

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Morning 7-8-26

Oil Prices Pressure Iraq’s Foreign Reserves, Experts Warn

2026-07-07 19:36    Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq's foreign currency reserves have fallen 12 percent in two years and remain at risk of further decline if oil prices drop below $60 per barrel, according to experts who spoke to Shafaq News on Tuesday. The reserves stood at $97.8 billion in late April 2026, down from $111.7 billion at the end of 2023, driven by the government's heavy dependence on oil revenues rather than diversified income streams.

Political science professor Najm Abdul Tarish warned that if oil prices remain between $55 and $60 per barrel, while government spending stays elevated, Iraq's foreign reserves could come under pressure.

“Funds are unlikely to decline sharply in the near term but could gradually erode if oil income continues to fall without meaningful economic reforms,” he told Shafaq News, suggesting that protecting them requires diversifying the economy, increasing non-oil returns, and encouraging investment and domestic production rather than relying solely on oil, Tarish argued.

According to former CBI Director General Mahmoud Dagher, the impact of foreign currency reserves on ordinary Iraqis is indirect, and most felt when speculation drives up demand for US dollars or confidence in the market weakens.

He said rumors about the economy or Iraq's oil exports often prompt citizens and traders to buy dollars, increasing demand and pushing up exchange rates on the parallel market. Because Iraq relies heavily on imports, any rise in the dollar's value ultimately increases the cost of imported goods and weakens the purchasing power of the dinar.

Speaking to Shafaq News, expert Mohammed Al-Hassani noted that the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) does not use its holdings to finance the state budget. Instead, the funds are used to maintain monetary stability, support the Iraqi dinar's exchange rate, secure US dollars for imports, and strengthen investor confidence in the country's economy. He added that part of the reserves is invested in safe, highly liquid financial instruments held by international institutions to preserve their value and ensure they remain readily available when needed.

Despite the concerns, the Prime Minister's Financial Adviser, Mudhir Mohammed Saleh, told Shafaq News that the CBI's foreign currency reserves remain within safe levels under international standards, covering about 12 months of Iraq's imports compared with the global benchmark of three months. “The reserves give the Central Bank significant room to intervene in the foreign exchange market and support the dinar, while noting that exchange rate stability also depends on oil prices, government revenues, the efficiency of the banking sector, and confidence in the economy.

Read more: Iraqi experts divided on reviving the oil-reliant economy

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-prices-pressure-Iraq-s-foreign-reserves-experts-warn

Oil Jumps Nearly 2% After US Strikes On Iran

2026-07-07 23:42    Shafaq News  Oil prices climbed nearly 2% on ​Wednesday after the U.S. military launched airstrikes against Iran and reimposed crude sales sanctions, raising fears their fragile ‌truce was unravelling and Middle East supplies could be disrupted again.

The U.S. airstrikes were in response to Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels that were transiting the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. Central Command said on Tuesday. The strait is a key waterway for the transport of Middle Eastern ​oil shipments to wider markets.

Brent crude futures gained $1.38, or 1.9%, to $75.54 a barrel, and U.S. West Texas Intermediate ​crude climbed to $71.81 a barrel, up $1.37, or 1.9% at 0128 GMT.

Both benchmarks rose about 3% on ⁠Tuesday after the U.S. revoked the general licence authorising the sale of Iranian crude following the Iranian attacks.

"The current conflagration ​is a reminder to the market of how fragile passage through the Strait still is," said Saul Kavonic, head of research ​at MST Marquee.

"This presents a contrary indicator to the prevailing sentiment that the market could be flooded into oversupply, which may scare some of the record short positioning to cover," he said, adding that if tensions persist and traffic through the waterway remains below 50% of ​pre-war levels, the resulting supply constraints could support higher oil prices.

After the U.S. and Iran signed their truce agreement ​last month, oil prices tumbled back to pre-war levels and traders amassed large short positions in oil futures, or bets that prices would fall further.

Expectations ‌of ⁠a wave of pent-up Middle East supply coming onto the market caused the price declines.

Iran did not take responsibility for the vessel attacks but Qatar blamed Iran for them, including one on a Qatari liquefied natural gas tanker, which reported being struck by a drone that caused a fire in its engine room.

A Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker, believed to be the supertanker Wedyan, was also ​damaged off Oman, maritime security ​sources said. The cause ⁠was not immediately clear.

The attacks renewed concerns about tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, which carried cargoes equal to about one-fifth of global energy supply before the war began in February.

Iran ​is asserting its control of the Strait and has ordered ships to use a route ​closer to its ⁠coast rather than one nearer to Oman, which also borders the waterway. The U.S. insists the waterway must remain free to all as it was before the conflict started.

Since the war started, nations have drawn down their inventories to make up for ⁠the supply ​shortfall. U.S. crude oil inventories fell again last week, market sources said on Tuesday, ​citing data from the American Petroleum Institute. Analysts polled by Reuters had expected crude stockpiles to decline by about 2.4 million barrels in the week ended July ​3. 

(REUTERS) https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-jumps-nearly-2-after-US-strikes-on-Iran

Basrah Crudes Plunge Despite Global Futures Rally

2026-07-08 02:30    Shafaq News- Basrah   Iraq's Basrah crude led losses among OPEC grades on Wednesday, plunging more than 25%, even as major global benchmarks moved higher.

Basrah Heavy crude dropped to $45.37 per barrel, losing $15.39, or 25.33%, while Basrah Medium crude fell to $47.47 per barrel, down $10.39, or 17.96%.

Brent crude futures gained $1.92, or 2.6%, to $76.08 a barrel at 0400 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate crude climbed $1.82, or 2.6%, to $72.26 a barrel.

UAE's Murban crude advanced 3.39% to $71.31 per barrel, while Saudi Arabia's Arab Light crude tumbled 13.70% to $65.31, and Kuwait Export Blend dropped 13.13% to $69.01. OPEC's basket data showed a wider divergence between futures contracts and physical crude grades tied to pricing differentials across crude types.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Basrah-crudes-plunge-despite-global-futures-rally

EIA: Iraq's Crude Oil Exports To US Fall In June

2026-07-08 06:46 Shafaq News- Washington  Iraq's crude oil exports to the United States fell to 1.35 million barrels in June, down from 1.625 million barrels in May, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA).

EIA reported that Iraq exported an average of 107,000 barrels per day during the first week of June, exports fell to zero in the second week, recovered to an average of 71,000 barrels per day in the third week, and returned to zero in the fourth week.

The volatile pattern reflects ongoing disruptions to Iraqi crude shipments amid regional instability. Iraq ranked eighth globally among countries exporting crude to the United States in June, behind Canada, Venezuela, Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia.

Among Arab oil exporters to the US, Iraq held second place. Saudi Arabia led with 2.04 million barrels for the month, while Libya ranked third among Arab nations with 1.11 million barrels.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/EIA-Iraq-s-crude-oil-exports-to-US-fall-in-June

USD/IQD Exchange Rates Climbs In Baghdad, Erbil

2026-07-08 04:05    Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil    The US dollar rose in Baghdad and Erbil on Wednesday, trading around 153,500 Iraqi dinars per $100.

According to a Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded at 153,650 dinars per $100 at Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya central exchanges, up from 153,000 dinars on Tuesday's trading.

In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 154,000 dinars and bought it at 153,000 dinars.

In Erbil, the dollar traded higher, with selling prices reaching 153,700 dinars per $100 and buying prices at 153,600 dinars.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/USD-IQD-exchange-rates-climbs-in-Baghdad-Erbil-7

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Wednesday Morning 7-8-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Trump Orders Halt to U.S. Trade With Spain at NATO Summit 

Growing tensions over NATO defense spending and Spain's position during the Iran conflict have escalated into a major trade dispute, raising new questions about alliance unity and transatlantic economic relations.

 Overview 

• President Donald Trump announced he ordered Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to halt U.S. trade with Spain following disagreements over NATO defense commitments.

• Spain has refused to adopt NATO's new 5% defense spending target and declined to support certain U.S. military operations during the Iran conflict.

• The dispute highlights growing divisions within NATO at a time when the alliance is attempting to strengthen collective security amid rising global geopolitical risks.

Key Developments

1. Trump Announces Trade Action Against Spain

President Trump stated during the NATO Summit in Ankara that he had instructed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to stop trade with Spain, calling the country a "terrible partner." The remarks marked one of the strongest public criticisms of a NATO ally during the summit.

2. Defense Spending Dispute Reaches New Level 

Spain continues to reject NATO's new goal of spending 5% of GDP on defense and related security investments, maintaining that its existing military contributions adequately fulfill alliance obligations. Washington argues that all allies must increase spending to strengthen collective deterrence.

3. Iran Conflict Deepened Political Differences 

Relations deteriorated further after Spain reportedly declined to allow U.S. forces to use certain Spanish military facilities and airspace during operations connected to the Iran conflict. The disagreement intensified longstanding debates over burden-sharing within the alliance.

4. Strategic Military Cooperation Faces New Questions 

Despite the political dispute, Spain remains home to critical U.S. military installations, including Naval Station Rota and Morón Air Base, both of which support NATO operations throughout Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. No immediate military changes have been announced.

5. Markets Watch for Policy Follow-Through

While Trump's announcement immediately attracted global attention, investors are now watching whether formal trade restrictions will actually be implemented. Any significant disruption in U.S.-Spain trade could affect broader European economic sentiment and alliance cooperation.

 Why It Matters

Trade disputes between major allies can influence global markets, supply chains, and geopolitical stability. If tensions between Washington and Madrid escalate further, the disagreement could extend beyond defense policy into broader economic and diplomatic relations across Europe.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Foreign currency investors closely monitor geopolitical tensions because they can influence currency values, trade flows, investor confidence, and central bank policy. Increased uncertainty among major Western allies may contribute to market volatility while reinforcing demand for safe-haven assets such as the U.S. dollar and gold.

Implications for the Global Reset 

• Pillar 2 – Trade

Growing trade tensions between the United States and Spain highlight how geopolitical disagreements can influence international commerce, supply chains, and cross-border investment.

• Pillar 5 – Energy

Spain's strategic military and geographic position within NATO affects broader European security and energy logistics, making alliance cooperation increasingly important for regional stability.

This is not just about a dispute between allies—it reflects how defense commitments, trade policy, and geopolitical strategy are becoming increasingly interconnected in shaping the future global economic and security landscape.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters – NATO Summit coverage and U.S.-Spain defense spending dispute

• Modern Diplomacy – Trump Orders Halt to US Trade With Spain at NATO Summit

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 🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱

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

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

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

That is not your failure.

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

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

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

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

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

You deserve truth — not timelines.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

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