Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Evening 7-21-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

Washington, Frankfurt, and the IMF Signal Cautious Path as Central Banks Balance Inflation and Global Risks

Central banks are increasingly emphasizing financial stability, inflation control, and policy credibility as geopolitical tensions reshape the global economy and influence future monetary decisions.

Overview

• Major central banks continue to prioritize inflation control despite heightened geopolitical uncertainty and energy market volatility.

• The IMF is urging governments to maintain credible fiscal and monetary policies as the global economy navigates repeated external shocks.

• Markets are increasingly focused on interest-rate expectations, recognizing that monetary policy remains a key driver of global financial stability.

Key Developments

1. Central Banks Maintain a Cautious Policy Stance

The European Central Bank (ECB) is expected to keep interest rates steady while closely monitoring the effects of higher energy prices stemming from Middle East tensions. Policymakers remain cautious as inflation risks persist despite recent moderation in price pressures.

2. IMF Calls for Credible Monetary Policy

The International Monetary Fund warned that today's economic environment requires governments to maintain price stability, sound fiscal policy, and financial credibility. IMF officials noted that repeated global shocks—including inflation, geopolitical conflict, debt pressures, and technological change—have made economic forecasting increasingly difficult.

3. Energy Risks Continue to Influence Inflation

Although oil prices have eased from recent highs, policymakers remain concerned that prolonged disruptions to global energy supplies could create secondary inflation effects, particularly through transportation, manufacturing, fertilizer production, and food prices.

4. Financial Stability Remains the Primary Objective

Central banks are balancing the need to support economic growth while ensuring inflation expectations remain anchored. Officials continue to stress that maintaining confidence in monetary policy is essential as governments navigate an increasingly uncertain global environment.

Why It Matters

Interest-rate policy influences nearly every sector of the global economy—from government borrowing and banking to mortgages, business investment, and international capital flows. Decisions made by major central banks help determine the direction of global liquidity and financial stability.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For foreign currency holders, monetary policy remains one of the most important long-term drivers of currency values. Stable inflation, credible central banks, and disciplined fiscal policies contribute to stronger confidence in national currencies and the broader international monetary system.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Debt

Higher interest rates increase borrowing costs for governments, businesses, and consumers while influencing global debt sustainability and fiscal policy.

• Pillar 2: Trade

Inflation, energy prices, and monetary policy directly affect international trade, investment flows, and global economic growth.

Future Outlook

Markets will closely monitor upcoming policy meetings from major central banks, along with new inflation and employment data that could influence future interest-rate decisions. Continued geopolitical uncertainty—particularly surrounding energy supplies—will remain a significant factor shaping monetary policy in the months ahead.

As governments adapt to a world characterized by higher debt levels, technological transformation, and shifting geopolitical alliances, central bank credibility will remain one of the most important anchors supporting the global financial system.

This is not simply about interest rates—it reflects the broader transformation of the global financial system as central banks balance inflation, financial stability, and geopolitical uncertainty in an increasingly interconnected world.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters — IMF strategy chief calls for price stability, credibility in shock-prone world

• Reuters — Back to square one: Five questions for the ECB

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Evening 7-21-26

Sudani Referred 38,000 Reports To The Integrity Commission And  Five Ministers To The Judiciary. The Ministry Of Reconstruction And Development Stated That Al-Zidi Possesses A Broader Political Mandate For Dismissal And Accountability

  latest news Tuesday, July 21, 2026  Baghdad - One News - 7/21/2026 The Reconstruction and Development Coalition highlighted what it described as the difference in the political environment in which the previous and current governments operated, considering that the executive authority’s ability to proceed with anti-corruption files is not only related to legal procedures, but also to the extent of the political cover available for making decisions on dismissal and accountability.

Coalition spokesman Firas al-Muslawi said that former Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani referred about 38,000 reports to the Integrity Commission, and also referred five ministers from his government to the judiciary, as part of measures aimed at pursuing corruption cases and subjecting them to the judicial process.

  Al-Muslawi believed that these measures were implemented under a complex political equation that, as he described it, prevented the Sudanese government from having sufficient political cover to make decisions to dismiss ministers or expand the scope of accountability within the ministerial formation, despite proceeding to refer a number of files to regulatory and judicial authorities.

  In contrast, he argued that Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s government operates in different political circumstances, explaining that it enjoys a mandate and political support that give it more room to make direct executive decisions, including dismissing ministers or referring them to the judiciary whenever legal justifications are available.

 He pointed out that this political cover gives the current government greater ability to turn the anti-corruption slogan into executive measures, away from the constraints that political balances imposed on previous governments, thus allowing it to proceed with holding officials accountable, regardless of their positions, in accordance with legal and constitutional frameworks.

  Al-Muslawi's statements come at a time when the current government is continuing its anti-corruption campaign, which has included opening investigation files, referring officials to the judiciary, and taking measures that the government says aim to establish the principle of no impunity and enhance public confidence in state institutions.  

https://1news-iq.net/السوداني-أحال-38-ألف-بلاغ-إلى-النزاهة-و5-و/

Al-Moussawi: The 2027 Budget Will Take Into Account Reducing The Deficit And Maximizing Revenues.

Today 13:35 1 Share The Information Agency / Baghdad...MP Ahmed al-Moussawi revealed today, Tuesday, the fate of the 2026 budget, confirming that the Parliament will vote on the schedules for the remainder of the current year, while the 2027 budget will be voted on at the beginning of next year.

Al-Moussawi told the Information Agency, “The current fiscal year is nearing its end, and therefore the Parliament will vote on the schedules for the remaining period of the 2026 budget.”

He added, "The 2027 budget will be voted on at the beginning of next year in accordance with the financial and economic requirements of the next phase."

He pointed out that "the government and the Finance Committee will focus, during the preparation of the 2027 budget, on maximizing non-oil revenues and reducing the size of the budget deficit in light of the economic conditions the country is experiencing and the tensions in the Middle East region that are affecting the economic and financial situation." End/25

https://almaalomah-me.translate.goog/news/138916/politics/الموسوي:-موازنة-2027-ستراعي-تقليل-العجز-وتعظيم-الإيرادات?_x_tr_sl=ar&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=sc

Parliamentary Finance Committee: The Value Of The Dollar Will Decrease Further.

Economy |   08:26 - 20/07/2026 Mawazin News - Economy  The Parliamentary Finance Committee confirmed on Monday that the value of the dollar will decrease further.

Committee Chairman Uday Awad stated in a statement reported by Mawazin News that "lifting sanctions on a number of banks will affect the dollar's price, its flow, and the parallel market," explaining that "this measure will benefit the Iraqi market."

He added that "this will reduce the dollar's value," noting that "we will host the Central Bank Governor in the committee to clarify the vision and mechanisms he will adopt regarding this matter."

He mentioned that "banks will resume dealing in dollars."

Regarding the budget, Awad indicated that "the government has begun preparing the 2027 budget, which will reach Parliament in October," pointing out that "the budget will be approved before the end of the year."   https://mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=286585

The Parliamentary Finance Committee Intends To Host The Governor Of The Central Bank.

The Finance Committee in the House of Representatives revealed on Tuesday its intention to host the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq to discuss the most prominent issues related to monetary policy and financial stability, as part of its oversight efforts to monitor the performance of financial institutions.

The head of the parliamentary finance committee, Uday Awad, told the official newspaper, as reported by Al-Sa’a Network, that “the committee has sent an official invitation to the governor of the Central Bank to attend a specialized hosting session to discuss the most prominent issues related to monetary policy and financial stability.”

He explained that "the hosting session will address the Central Bank's directions regarding monetary policy during the coming years in light of geopolitical and economic changes, in addition to discussing the reality of developing the banking sector and the stages of implementing international agreements, especially the (Oliver Wyman) project, and its implications for supporting monetary and financial stability and the national economy."

Awad added that "the committee will also examine the Central Bank's final accounts for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025, and assess their contribution to achieving financial and economic sustainability and strengthening the country's monetary reserves."

He stressed that "the Finance Committee is proceeding with activating its oversight role by hosting executive officials and monitoring the performance of economic and financial institutions, which contributes to strengthening coordination between the legislative and executive authorities, supporting financial stability and protecting the national economy."

https://alssaa.com/post/show/56840-المالية-النيابية-تعتزم-استضافة-محافظ-البنك-المركزي

Central Bank Of Iraq Outlines Roadmap To Reduce Cash Reliance And Expand Digital Services

Mohammed Jangadost   The Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) held an expanded meeting on Tuesday with licensed electronic payment providers to accelerate the nation’s digital financial transformation, strengthen financial inclusion, and curb card misuse.

Chaired by CBI Governor Nizar Nasser Hussein, the meeting centered on executing the regulator’s strategic roadmap to modernize Iraq’s payment ecosystem and transition away from a cash-heavy economy.

Addressing representatives from the sector, Al-Alaq stated that the upcoming phase demands a noticeable increase in service quality, efficiency, and system reliability to build public trust in digital transactions.

Key Objectives and Strategic Focus

During the session, the central bank outlined several operational and regulatory priorities:

• Compliance with Global Standards: The CBI urged payment firms to adhere strictly to international frameworks, particularly regarding cross-border financial transactions. Compliance is expected to enable higher card transaction limits and facilitate the rollout of new financial products.

• Countering Card Misuse: Regulators and payment companies discussed joint enforcement procedures to prevent card misuse and enhance payment network security.

• Expanding Acceptance Networks: Al-Alaq called on providers to expand POS (Point-of-Sale) acceptance networks, streamline digital collection processes, and deepen integration with licensed commercial banks.

The initiative comes as part of broader government efforts to modernize the national economy, reduce cash dependency, and implement modern financial infrastructure across both the public and private sectors.   https://channel8.com/english/news/61771

Every Asset In Argentina Is Surging Higher... Except The Apartments

Every Asset In Argentina Is Surging Higher... Except The Apartments

Notes From the field By James Hickman (Simon Black / Sovereign Man) July 20, 2026

If you have a budget of $179,000 to spend on real estate in the United States, I hope you like renovated sheds. Or a six-hour drive to the nearest airport.

But right now, $179,000 buys a typical three-room apartment in Buenos Aires, the "Paris of South America" (minus the Islamic terrorists).

Studio apartments in Argentina's capital are going for $108,000. All of it is quoted and paid in US dollars, because Argentina's property market gave up on their local currency for real estate transactions a long time ago.

But this is arguably the last cheap sector of Argentina. Prices of every other asset have gone up dramatically thanks to country’s general economic recovery; ever since President Milei was elected, he has slashed government spending and delivered the country's first budget surplus in over a decade. The stock market has surged. Every asset is up. Except for apartments.

Remember, a century ago, Argentina was one of the ten richest countries in the world; its people were better off per capita than the French or Germans.

Then came Juan Perón. Elected in 1946, he nationalized everything— railways, utilities, etc. He regulated wages and prices. It was full-blown command socialism.

Perón was thrown out in 1955, but the machine he built outlived him by seventy years. He had created a permanent bloc of voters— paid by the state— and every government that tried to cut spending found out it could not survive doing so. So they printed money instead.

That is where the price controls, the capital controls, the repeated defaults, and the chronic inflation all came from.

Milei took office at the end of 2023 and started taking the machine apart. He cut the number of federal ministries in half and fired tens of thousands of government employees. He scrapped the price controls and stopped the central bank from printing money to cover the government's bills.

It hurt. Poverty jumped before it came down, and real wages fell before they recovered.

The month Milei took office, prices rose 25.5%. That was the MONTHLY inflation figure, not the annual one. By June 2026, monthly inflation was down to 1.9%.

To be clear, that is still astronomical by North American or European standards. Argentina is still a high-inflation country. But they’ve come a long way in bringing inflation down, and the country is no longer collapsing. There’s clearly a light at the end of the tunnel.

And it got there using the same playbook every country that climbed out of a hole this deep has run.

For example, in 1965 Singapore was an impoverished backwater with no resources and a third of its population squatting in slums. Lee Kuan Yew cut the tariffs, kept taxes low, and threw the doors open to foreign companies. Today Singapore produces more than $90,000 per person— more than the United States.

No country is permanently rich, and no country is permanently poor. For the first time in a very long time, Argentina is heading the right direction.

Foreign capital has noticed. Under a new incentive regime, companies have launched roughly $95 billion of projects. The state oil company YPF filed a $25 billion shale development in Vaca Muerta in May, and Chevron committed more than $10 billion to the same basin.

Companies do not pour concrete and steel into countries they expect to collapse.

The financial markets repriced accordingly. Argentine stocks have run hard, and the main US-listed Argentina fund is up more than 230% over five years.

After a run like that, you could argue the stocks are no longer even cheap. Even the bonds have moved: the extra interest Argentina must pay to borrow compared to US government bonds fell in July to its lowest level in eight years.

Which brings us back to that $179,000. The citywide Buenos Aires apartment index rose just 1.6% over the past twelve months. And that’s in US dollars.

In other words, every asset in Argentina has repriced, but the apartments aren’t even keeping pace with inflation.

The reason is credit, or rather the total absence of it; nine out of ten home purchases in Buenos Aires are paid in cash, without a mortgage.

And prices settle at whatever buyers can pay in cash.

The same condition holds across much of Latin America, and Colombia shows where it leads. Only around 3% of Colombian adults carry a mortgage, so prices sat at cash levels there too.

Then foreigners discovered Medellín. Buyers from North America and Europe arrived with money and bought apartments that looked absurdly cheap to them. In El Poblado, the neighborhood the expats favor, prices have jumped 66% in three years.

We think the same thing is going to happen in Argentina, with a bigger catalyst behind it, because the country is becoming an investment destination and an expat destination at once. It happened in Medellín, Mexico City, and other places in Latin America. It’s basic supply and demand.

There is still risk— Argentines vote again on October 24, 2027... so if Milei’s political movement  collapses, the country could return to its old ways. But that’s pretty much the same anywhere. Every country carries risk.

For example, I doubt anyone is rushing to buy British assets right now. Britain's finances and politics have genuinely deteriorated, and its government now pays close to 6% to borrow money, the most since 1998.

Now that Marxist Andy Burnham has taken over as Prime Minister as of this morning, the situation will likely get worse before it gets better. At some point Britain will get cheap enough that its stocks and bonds become attractive again. But today is not that day.

And American assets are no automatic refuge either. Just wait and see what happens if Gavin Newsom gets the chance to do to the whole country what he did to California.

Argentina, at least, pays you to take its risk. The apartments are cheap, and the catalyst pushing them up is already arriving.

It is also a serious Plan B destination. Living there costs roughly half of what it does in the United States, and it draws far fewer foreigners than the places everyone has already found.

Our flagship service, Plan B Confidential, just published a full report on Argentine real estate, covering which neighborhoods hold their value, how to move money in and out, and where residency and citizenship stand.

https://www.schiffsovereign.com/trends/every-asset-in-argentina-is-surging-higher-except-the-apartments-155493/?inf_contact_key=dd385d53ea14340026cc9484e23a9bc575ed3b9f1880b1bad6530b4fabbb2716

MilitiaMan & Crew-IRAQ DINAR UPDATE-“Washington Visit Delivering: Energy, Banks & Iraq’s Next Phase”

MilitiaMan & Crew-IRAQ DINAR UPDATE-“Washington Visit Delivering: Energy, Banks & Iraq’s Next Phase”

7-21-2026

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.

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=mgbLQxqfj3s

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Afternoon 7-21-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

Washington Advances CLARITY Act as U.S. Moves Toward a Clear Digital Asset Framework

Bipartisan Senate action marks a significant step toward establishing long-awaited rules for digital assets, strengthening the foundation for institutional adoption and future financial innovation.

 Overview

• The U.S. Senate Banking Committee approved the CLARITY Act with bipartisan support, advancing one of the most significant digital asset regulatory bills in years.

• The legislation would divide oversight between the SEC and CFTC, providing clearer regulatory authority over cryptocurrencies and digital assets.

• Greater regulatory certainty could encourage broader institutional participation while supporting the continued modernization of the U.S. financial system.

Key Developments

1. Senate Banking Committee Advances the CLARITY Act

The Senate Banking Committee approved the Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act by a bipartisan 15–9 vote, representing one of the strongest congressional efforts yet to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets.

If enacted, the legislation would provide long-awaited legal certainty for cryptocurrency markets that have operated under overlapping regulatory interpretations for years.

2. SEC and CFTC Responsibilities Become More Clearly Defined

A central feature of the legislation is the creation of a clear division of regulatory authority between the nation's two primary financial regulators.

Under the proposal:

• The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) would oversee digital assets classified as commodities.

• The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) would retain jurisdiction over digital assets determined to be securities.

Supporters argue that clearly defining these responsibilities would reduce regulatory uncertainty while encouraging innovation and investment.

3. Digital Asset Industry Continues to Mature

The legislation also includes provisions addressing market oversight, decentralized finance (DeFi), investor protections, sanctions compliance, and public official disclosure requirements.

Separate legislation covering stablecoins continues to move through Congress, while lawmakers are also considering tax reforms affecting cryptocurrency mining and staking.

Together, these efforts represent one of the most comprehensive attempts yet to modernize U.S. digital asset regulation.

4. Institutional Adoption Could Accelerate

Markets responded positively following committee approval, with Bitcoin rising above $82,000 before settling lower.

Many institutional investors have cited regulatory uncertainty as one of the primary barriers to expanding digital asset exposure. A clearer legal framework could encourage additional participation from banks, investment firms, payment companies, and financial institutions.

Why It Matters

The CLARITY Act represents an important milestone in the ongoing evolution of the U.S. financial system. Rather than determining whether digital assets should exist, policymakers are increasingly focused on how they will operate within the existing regulatory framework.

Clear rules may help reduce uncertainty while supporting innovation, investment, and broader integration between traditional finance and blockchain-based financial infrastructure.

 Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For foreign currency holders, the legislation reflects continued modernization of the global financial system rather than an immediate change in currency values. As digital asset regulations become more standardized, blockchain-based payment systems, tokenized assets, and regulated stablecoins could play a larger role in international finance and cross-border transactions.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 2: Trade

Clear digital asset regulations could improve the efficiency of cross-border payments and international financial transactions, supporting the continued evolution of global commerce.

• Pillar 4: Technology

The CLARITY Act strengthens the regulatory foundation for digital assets, blockchain infrastructure, tokenization, and future financial innovation, helping integrate emerging technologies into the broader financial system.

Future Outlook

The CLARITY Act now advances toward additional consideration in the Senate, where lawmakers will continue debating issues surrounding decentralized finance, stablecoins, taxation, and market oversight.

If ultimately enacted, the legislation would establish one of the most comprehensive regulatory frameworks for digital assets in the United States, potentially encouraging greater institutional investment while providing clearer rules for market participants. Combined with recent stablecoin legislation and ongoing tokenization initiatives, the bill signals continued movement toward a more digitally integrated financial system.

This is not simply about cryptocurrency regulation—it reflects the broader transformation of the global financial system as governments establish the legal framework for digital assets, tokenized finance, and the next generation of international markets.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Crypto Briefing — Washington moves toward clearer rulebook for digital assets

• U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs — Committee actions and legislation on digital asset market structure

~~~~~~~~~~

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Afternoon 7-21-26

Hormuz Tensions Push India To Cancel Iraqi Oil Cargoes

2026-07-21 08:38   Shafaq News- Baghdad   State-owned Indian Oil Corp. on Tuesday canceled plans to load two million barrels of Iraqi crude from the Basra terminal onto the crude carrier (VLCC) Lila Jamnagar around July 23 because of security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz.

Quoting three sources, Reuters said another state-run refiner, Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd. (MRPL), also deferred loading an Iraqi oil cargo aboard the Indian-flagged tanker Desh Gaurav.

New Delhi has advised shipowners, vessel operators, and crewing companies not to deploy Indian seafarers aboard ships transiting Hormuz following the resumption of hostilities in the region.

During the first round of fighting between the US and Iran, from Feb. 28 to April 8, India slashed crude oil imports from Iraq by about 84% after disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz hit shipping.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Hormuz-tensions-push-India-to-cancel-Iraqi-oil-cargoes

Chinese Exports To Iraq Fall 42% In H1 2026

2026-07-21 05:05   Shafaq News- Baghdad   Chinese exports to Iraq totaled $5.18 billion in the first half of 2026, down 41.7% from $8.89 billion in the same period last year, according to a report released on Tuesday by the Iraq Future Foundation for Economic Studies and Consultancy.

The report showed lower imports of air conditioners, consumer electronics and mobile phones, which had previously ranked among Iraq's leading imports from China.

Manar Al-Obaidi, head of the foundation, attributed the decline to higher customs tariffs on those products, which he said had risen to 33%, as well as supply-chain disruptions and shipping delays linked to instability in the Strait of Hormuz.

In contrast, imports of Chinese vehicles increased to $275 million in the first half of 2026 from $243 million a year earlier.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Chinese-exports-to-Iraq-fall-42-in-H1-2026

Gold Edges Higher On Iran Ceasefire Proposal

2026-07-21 02:23   Shafaq News   Gold prices rose more than 1% on Tuesday as investors weighed ‌diplomatic efforts to ease the U.S.-Iran conflict, which could temper oil-driven inflation risks and influence the U.S. Federal Reserve's interest rate path.

Spot gold rose 1.2% to $4,054.24 per ounce as of ​0529 GMT. U.S. gold futures for August delivery were up 1.1% at $4,059.10.

"It ​looks like gold is trying to find a base somewhere around ⁠this ($4,000) level and is going to try to re-engage the upside from there," ​said Ilya Spivak, head of global macro at Tastylive.

"These headlines from the Middle ​East seem to have some degree of knock-on, though it is increasingly only being paid attention to in a passing kind of way."

Oil prices softened on Tuesday, with markets weighing reports ​of mediation efforts between the U.S. and Iran against an exchange of fresh ​attacks between the two and threats of a naval blockade of Saudi Arabia by Yemen's Houthis.

A senior ‌Iranian ⁠official told Reuters on Monday that Tehran had received a proposal from mediators for a 10-day ceasefire in efforts to salvage the interim deal, intended to pave the way to a lasting agreement to end the war.

The recent escalation in the ​conflict drove oil prices ​to more than ⁠a one-month high on Monday, with a growing chorus of U.S. policymakers arguing interest rates may need to rise to beat back ​persistent inflation.

High interest rates increase the opportunity cost of holding ​non-yielding bullion.

While ⁠the Federal Reserve is widely expected to keep interest rates unchanged at next week's meeting, traders are currently pricing a 64% chance of a rate hike in September, ⁠according ​to the CME FedWatch Tool. FEDWATCH

Spot silver gained 2.8% ​to $57.99 per ounce, platinum was up 1% at $1,610.06 and palladium rose 1.2% to $1,267.68.   (Reuters)

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-edges-higher-on-Iran-ceasefire-proposal

Iraq Stock Exchange Logs $290M+ In Trading In H1 2026

2026-07-21 07:38  Shafaq News- Baghdad  The Iraq Stock Exchange (ISX) on Tuesday recorded trading worth 390.35 billion Iraqi dinars ($296.67M) during the first half of 2026, with 389.46 billion shares changing hands across 112 sessions.

Shares in 90 of the exchange’s 120 listed companies were traded through 119,375 transactions carried out by 37 brokerage firms using the electronic trading system.

The ISX60 index ended the first half at 1,019.39 points, marking a 5.56% increase from a year earlier, while the ISX15 finished at 1,273.79 points, up 16.52% over the same period.

Twenty-two listed companies saw no trading activity, while eight others remained suspended throughout the period.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-Stock-Exchange-logs-290M-in-trading-in-H1-2026

China delivers first batch to Iraq's maritime fleet

2026-07-21 09:45  Shafaq News- Basra  Iraq's General Company for Maritime Transport, based in Basra, took preliminary delivery of 15 modern marine boats and three passenger ferries, the company's director said on Tuesday.

According to Ahmad Jassem, the new ferries will operate passenger routes between Iraq and Gulf countries, helping boost travel, trade, and tourism while opening new opportunities for regional cooperation in maritime transport.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/China-delivers-first-batch-to-Iraq-s-maritime-fleet

Rice Leads India's $545M Exports To Iraq In Q1

2026-07-21 13:25   Shafaq News- Baghdad  India exported goods worth $545 million to Iraq during the first quarter of 2026, India's Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics said on Tuesday.

Data showed that rice topped India's exports to Iraq at $169 million, followed by frozen beef at $60 million and petroleum oils and related products at $50 million. Other major exports included bananas worth $46 million, pharmaceuticals at $25 million, large-diameter steel pipes at $20 million, ceramic tiles at $16 million, and tea at $13 million.

The directorate also reported that sunflower seed oil shipments reached $6.1 million, while exports of passenger vehicles totaled $5.9 million during the same period.

According to InfoFlix data in January, Iraq ranked as India's seventh-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade totaling $33.3 billion.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Rice-leads-India-s-545M-exports-to-Iraq-in-Q1

What Happens to Your Debt in a RESET?

What Happens to Your Debt in a RESET?

Taylor Kenny:  7-21-2026

Most people assume their mortgage, retirement account, and financial contracts will work exactly the way they do today. ITM Trading Senior Analyst Keely Caul says that's a dangerous assumption.

Drawing on years in banking, finance, and loan auditing, she joins Taylor Kenney to expose the hidden clauses most people never read, explain how the rules have changed during past financial crises, and reveal why understanding what you actually own could matter far more than most people realize.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 What a Monetary Reset Really Means

03:07 The Monetary Reset Has Already Begun

06:18 Digital Money, Surveillance, and Control

09:08 Will Your Debt Disappear in a Reset?

11:04 What Did You Actually Sign?

14:07 Mortgage Default and Acceleration Clauses

17:28 What Keely Saw Before the 2008 Crisis

31:15 Should You Pay Off All Your Debt?

33:37 Argentina’s Mortgage Reset Warning

43:09 Gold vs. Silver During a Monetary Crisis

48:47 What Happens When Banks Fail?

50:28 How to Prepare for a Monetary Reset

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Morning 7-21-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

International Financial Institutions Coordinate Response as Middle East Crisis Reshapes Global Economy

The IMF, World Bank, WTO, and International Energy Agency strengthen cooperation to address growing risks to energy security, global trade, and financial stability.

 Overview

• The world's leading financial and economic institutions have increased coordination in response to the ongoing Middle East conflict and its impact on global markets.

• Energy security, trade flows, and supply chain resilience have become top international priorities as disruptions continue around the Strait of Hormuz.

• The coordinated response highlights how geopolitical crises are increasingly driving global financial policy and international economic cooperation.

Key Developments

1. International Institutions Increase Economic Coordination

The International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, World Trade Organization (WTO), and International Energy Agency (IEA) have strengthened coordination as governments work to reduce the economic impact of continued instability in the Middle East.

Officials emphasized the importance of maintaining open trade routes, supporting energy security, and preserving financial stability as global markets continue to respond to geopolitical developments.

2. Energy Security Becomes a Global Economic Priority

With continued uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, international organizations are closely monitoring the potential effects on oil supplies, inflation, and economic growth.

The institutions stressed that stable energy markets remain essential to supporting global recovery, protecting supply chains, and minimizing disruptions to international commerce.

3. Trade and Supply Chains Remain Under Pressure

The coordinated effort also focuses on protecting global trade flows from prolonged disruptions. Shipping delays, higher transportation costs, and increased insurance premiums have already placed additional pressure on businesses and consumers worldwide.

International policymakers continue working with governments to improve supply-chain resilience while encouraging cooperation that reduces economic uncertainty.

4. Financial Stability Remains the Primary Objective

Central banks and international financial institutions recognize that prolonged geopolitical instability can influence inflation, interest-rate expectations, investment flows, and currency markets.

By coordinating policy discussions and sharing market analysis, these organizations hope to reduce uncertainty and strengthen confidence across the global financial system.

 Why It Matters

The growing coordination among the world's largest financial institutions demonstrates that geopolitical events are no longer viewed solely as security issues—they have become major economic and financial concerns. Energy markets, trade routes, and supply chains now play a central role in shaping monetary policy, investment decisions, and global economic stability.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Foreign currency holders should recognize that coordinated action by the IMF, World Bank, WTO, and IEA reflects a broader effort to stabilize the international financial system during periods of geopolitical stress. Policies affecting energy prices, inflation, global trade, and capital flows can ultimately influence exchange rates and long-term currency valuations.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 2: Trade

International organizations are prioritizing the protection of global trade routes and supply chains, recognizing that disruptions to strategic shipping corridors can quickly ripple through the world economy.

• Pillar 5: Energy

The continued focus on energy security highlights the growing importance of reliable energy supplies as a foundation for economic growth, inflation management, and financial stability.

Future Outlook

International institutions are expected to continue coordinating with governments and central banks as the Middle East situation evolves. Markets will closely monitor developments surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, global energy supplies, and diplomatic efforts that could reduce geopolitical risk.

Should tensions ease, global trade and energy markets could stabilize, helping reduce inflationary pressures. However, prolonged disruptions would likely reinforce the need for continued international coordination and could accelerate efforts to diversify supply chains and strengthen economic resilience.

This is not simply about managing a regional conflict—it reflects the broader transformation of the global financial system as governments and international institutions increasingly coordinate responses to protect trade, energy security, and long-term economic stability.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• World Trade Organization — WTO Director-General statement on cooperation addressing global trade and economic impacts

• International Monetary Fund — IMF News and Statements on the global economy and financial stability

~~~~~~~~~~

 🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱

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

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

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

That is not your failure.

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

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

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

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

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

You deserve truth — not timelines.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Morning 7-21-26

The Shiite Political Bloc Can No Longer Accommodate Everyone.

A leader told One News: "The 'Coordination Framework' is heading towards a harsh restructuring, reducing its seats to 5 and excluding prominent forces."    

latest news   Tuesday,  July 21, 2026   Baghdad - One News -   Leading political sources in Baghdad revealed to One News that intense and unprecedented activity is underway within the corridors of the ruling Shiite "Coordination Framework" in Iraq, aimed at a radical restructuring of its leadership.

Discussions behind the scenes are leaning towards reducing the coalition's leadership body to just five seats, a preemptive move by influential forces seeking to expedite decision-making and avert the internal deadlock and paralysis that now threatens the framework's cohesion.  

According to exclusive information obtained by “One News” from a leading source who requested anonymity, the proposed restructuring plan includes excluding five prominent figures from the decision-making circle within the coalition: Ahmed al-Asadi, Abu Alaa al-Walai, Shibl al-Zaidi, along with former Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, and the head of the Supreme Islamic Council, Humam Hamoudi.  

The source linked the inclusion of al-Asadi and al-Zaydi’s names on the list of those excluded to indications of prosecutions and files related to suspicions of financial and administrative corruption that some of them or their relatives have recently faced, while the exclusion of al-Abadi, Hammoudi, and al-Walai comes as part of the process of “re-engineering the difficult balances” within the Shiite alliance, with the aim of forming a smaller, more harmonious, and more maneuverable decision-making circle.  

This potential organizational shake-up comes as an extension of a silent crisis that has been plaguing the “coordination framework” for months, the pace of which has noticeably increased following the formation of Prime Minister Ali al-Zidi’s government and the vote on its cabinet, as resentment prevailed among several parties who felt that they had been excluded or had not received their “electoral and executive entitlement” from ministerial portfolios and independent bodies.  

But the deeper dimensions of this anticipated transformation lie in the widening rift between the "traditional" political forces and those with armed factional wings. According to the leading source, the armed wings within the framework are now facing a real dilemma in consolidating their official influence within the state structure, due to a strict, albeit undeclared, "American veto" that obstructs the assignment of any sensitive executive or ministerial positions to figures associated with the factions.

This has, consequently, led to a decline in their representation and influence, prompting other parties to move towards limiting their presence in the framework's political decision-making center.  

These restructuring efforts reflect serious concerns among key figures in the Shiite alliance about entering a "highly complex and dangerous political phase."

Prominent leaders believe this phase could impose harsh scenarios on the entire Iraqi political landscape and jeopardize the continuity of the current "coordination framework" unless internal divisions are addressed and a unified discourse is established.   https://1news-iq.net/البيت-الشيعي-لم-يعد-يتسع-للجميع-قيادي/

Al-Mada: Al-Zaidi Intends To Request Iranian Support For The Transfer Of Ballistic Missiles And To Finalize Iraq's  Weapons File Before The End Of September

  latest news Tuesday, July 21, 2026   Baghdad - One News - 7/21/2026   Al-Mada newspaper reported that Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi, five days after his visit to Washington, is preparing to head to Tehran on July 23, in a visit that will test the government’s ability to implement the pledges he brought from the American capital.  

She indicated that during his visit to Iran, Al-Zaydi will ask Tehran to exert pressure on the armed factions to release what the sources described as the “ballistic card,” and to hand over the missiles in their possession before September 30, which is the date set by the government to end the issue of weapons outside the state's control.  

According to the newspaper, the meetings in Tehran will focus primarily on the groups that government circles describe as “rebels,” who refuse to disarm, noting that estimates suggest they possess hundreds of drones, in addition to at least eight ballistic missiles that they obtained from Iran and refuse to hand over.     https://1news-iq.net/المدى-الزيدي-يعتزم-طلب-دعم-إيراني-لتسل/

Oil Retreats On Mediation Hopes

2026-07-21 01:28   Shafaq News  Oil prices softened on Tuesday, with markets weighing reports of mediation efforts between the ‌U.S. and Iran against an exchange of fresh attacks between the two and threats of a naval blockade of Saudi Arabia by Yemen's Houthis.

Brent crude futures eased 78 cents, or 0.9%, to $88.44 per barrel by 0415 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was down 73 cents, ​or 0.9%, to $82.50 per barrel, while the more active contract for September delivery slipped 41 cents, or ​0.5%, to $82.07 a barrel.

"There's some hope of de-escalation between the U.S. and Iran. ⁠Reports are that mediators are proposing a 10-day ceasefire, which could put the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) back ​on track," ING analysts said in a note, referring to the June interim deal.

However, this won't be easy ​as major differences remain between Washington and Tehran, while Trump has warned of retaliation after several U.S. troops were killed, ING added.

A senior Iranian official told Reuters Tehran had received a proposal from mediators for a 10-day ceasefire in efforts to ​salvage the deal signed on June 17, intended to pave the way for a lasting agreement to ​end the war that began on February 28 with U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran.

The diplomatic push followed another night of U.S. ‌strikes on ⁠Iranian cities and attacks by Iran's Revolutionary Guards on U.S. military assets across the region. Later on Monday, U.S. Central Command said it had begun another round of strikes on Iran.

A tanker in the Strait of Hormuz reported being struck by an unknown projectile, forcing its crew to abandon ship and board a lifeboat, the United ​Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations agency ​said on Tuesday. Vessel ⁠crossings via the strait also dropped further amid growing caution following fresh attacks between the U.S. and Iran.

Additionally, Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis said on Monday they would impose a naval ​blockade on Saudi Arabia, opening a potential new front against the U.S. in ​its war ⁠on Iran and raising the threat to global energy supplies and trade beyond the Gulf.

"The threats of a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia by the Houthis are significant because they raise the risk of disruption to another major ⁠oil ​exporter," said Tim Waterer, chief market analyst at KCM Trade.

Meanwhile, U.S. crude ​oil stockpiles were expected to have fallen last week alongside gasoline, while distillate stocks likely rose, a preliminary Reuters poll showed on ​Monday.  (Reuters)

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-retreats-on-mediation-hopes

Dollar Drops In Baghdad And Erbil

2026-07-21 04:04   Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil  The US dollar opened Tuesday's trading lower in Iraq, hovering around 150,000 dinars per 100 dollars in Baghdad and Erbil.

According to Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded in Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges at 149,600 dinars per 100 dollars, down from Monday's 150,800 dinars.

In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 150,000 dinars and bought it at 149,000 dinars.

In Erbil, selling prices stood at 150,050 dinars and buying prices at 149,900 dinars.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-drops-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil-2

Tuesday Iraq News Posted by Tishwash at TNT 7-21-2026

TNT:

Tishwash:  Al-Baldawi: The stability of Iraq and the region depends on the withdrawal of US forces.

MP Mohammed al-Baldawi affirmed on Monday that stability in Iraq and the region will not be achieved while US forces remain present, calling for their complete withdrawal.

Al-Baldawi told the Information Agency, "Achieving security and political stability in Iraq and the region is contingent upon the withdrawal of US forces, as their presence is one of the primary causes of continued tension and crises."

He added, "Iraq possesses the security and military capabilities to protect its territory and sovereignty, and there is no need for any foreign forces to remain on its soil."

Al-Baldawi stressed "the necessity of respecting Iraq's sovereignty and implementing the resolutions calling for the end of the US military presence."  link

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Tishwash:  The framework supports the results of Al-Zaidi's visit to Washington and affirms: There is no protection for the corrupt.

The Coordination Framework announced on Monday its full support for the results of the official visit made by Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi to the United States, stressing that it will not provide any political cover for those involved in corruption cases .

The media office of the Coordination Framework stated in a statement received by Al-Sa’a Network that “the Framework held its meeting in Nouri al-Maliki’s office, in the presence of Prime Minister Ali al-Zidi and the leaders of the Framework, where the attendees listened to a detailed presentation given by al-Zidi regarding the results of his recent official visit to the United States, the meetings he held with American officials, and the understandings and agreements that resulted from the visit in a number of sectors that serve the higher interests of Iraq .”

The statement added that "the framework expressed its support for the results of the visit, and its support for the government in implementing the agreements and understandings that were reached, in a way that enhances Iraq's international standing, preserves its sovereignty and independence of national decision, contributes to developing its economic and security capabilities, attracts investments, achieves sustainable development, and provides job opportunities for citizens ."

He explained that "the framework discussed the government measures taken in the field of combating corruption," stressing "its continued full support for the government, the judiciary and the Integrity Commission in pursuing corruption, protecting public funds, recovering looted funds and holding those involved accountable in accordance with the law ."

He stressed that "the framework will not provide political cover for anyone proven by the competent judicial authorities to be involved in corruption cases," emphasizing "the importance of adhering to legal and judicial contexts, and including all those involved, regardless of their affiliation, to ensure the integrity of the anti-corruption campaign ."

The statement continued, "The framework discussed the overall situation in the country, ways to enhance political and security stability, improve the level of services, and address economic and social challenges, in order to meet the aspirations of citizens link

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Tishwash:  Borrowing bill to replace Iraq’s 2026 budget

A new borrowing, grants, and subsidies bill is set to serve in place of Iraq’s 2026 federal budget after the Parliamentary Finance Committee approved referring it to Parliament, committee chairman Uday Awad told Shafaq News on Monday.

Awad said the committee reviewed the bill with Finance Minister Faleh Al-Sari before voting by majority to place it on the agenda of upcoming parliamentary sessions.

The draft allows domestic and foreign borrowing without setting a specific amount or financial ceiling, grants individual ministers defined spending powers, and gives the Council of Ministers additional authority under the law.

The government began preparing the 2027 budget after two years without an enforceable federal budget. Although Iraq enacted a three-year budget law covering 2023, 2024, and 2025 under former Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, Parliament failed to approve the 2025 spending schedules before the fiscal year ended, preventing implementation of that year's budget. No budget law was passed for 2026.  link

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Tishwash:  Finance Minister: Financial allocations for local governments will be released in the coming days.

Finance Minister Faleh al-Sari stated on Monday that the financial allocations for local governments will be released in the coming days.

The Minister of Finance explained during a parliamentary oversight hearing to discuss security and service plans for the Arbaeen pilgrimage that "the financial situation is facing challenges as a result of declining oil revenues."

He confirmed that "a schedule of the needs of the governorates concerned with the visit has been sent to the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and the Parliamentary Committee," pledging "to release the financial allocations to the local governments in the coming days according to the available resources."  link

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

Tishwash:  Parliamentary Finance Committee: The value of the dollar will decrease further.

 Confirmed Finance Committee Parliamentarians said on Monday that the value of the dollar will decrease further.

The committee chairman said Ady Awad for Alsumaria News“ Lifting sanctions on a number of banks will affect the price of the dollar, its flow, and the parallel market,” he said, adding that “this measure will serve the Iraqi market.”

  He added that "this will reduce the value of the dollar," noting that "we will host the Central Bank Governor in the committee to clarify the vision and mechanisms he will adopt regarding this matter."

He stated that "banks will resume dealing in dollars."

Regarding the budget, he explained Awad"The government has begun preparing the 2027 budget, which will reach parliament in October," he noted, adding that "the budget will be approved before the end of the year."

 The Parliamentary Finance Committee confirmed on Monday that the value of the dollar will decrease further.

Committee Chairman Uday Awad stated in a statement reported by Mawazin News that "lifting sanctions on a number of banks will affect the dollar's price, its flow, and the parallel market," explaining that "this measure will benefit the Iraqi market."

He added that "this will reduce the dollar's value," noting that "we will host the Central Bank Governor in the committee to clarify the vision and mechanisms he will adopt regarding this matter."

He mentioned that "banks will resume dealing in dollars."

Regarding the budget, Awad indicated that "the government has begun preparing the 2027 budget, which will reach Parliament in October," pointing out that "the budget will be approved before the end of the year."  link

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Monday Evening 7-20-26

$18B+ Spent On 2025 Iraqi Public Construction

2026-07-20 05:19    Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq awarded 2,279 public-sector building and construction contracts worth 24.163 trillion Iraqi dinars ($18.45B) in 2025, with Baghdad accounting for the largest share of projects, the Commission of Statistics and GIS reported on Monday.   Baghdad led all provinces with 416 contracts valued at 4.753 trillion dinars ($3.63B), representing 18.2% of all public construction contracts awarded during the year.

Diyala ranked second with 248 contracts worth 557 billion dinars ($425M), followed by Nineveh with 231 contracts valued at 1.203 trillion dinars ($918M).

The data also showed that provincial administrations oversaw the largest share of public building and construction projects in 2025, managing 1,406 projects. The Ministry of Construction, Housing and Public Municipalities ranked second, overseeing 216 projects.

Earlier this month, the Commission revealed that private-sector building and renovation permits in Iraq fell to 25,934 in 2025, an 11.4% decline from the 29,729 permits issued the previous year.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/18B-spent-on-2025-Iraqi-public-construction

Industry Revival Key To Diversifying Iraq’s Economy, Experts Say

2026-07-20 06:40    Shafaq News- Baghdad    Iraq’s efforts to revive its industrial sector will determine whether the country can reduce its dependence on oil revenues and build a more productive economy, industry officials and economic analysts interviewed by Shafaq News suggested, calling for greater focus on restarting factories, supporting local production and attracting investment.

Despite its large natural resource base, consumer market and strategic location linking the Gulf with Turkiye and Europe, Iraq’s industrial sector remains limited after decades of conflict, sanctions, weak investment and inconsistent policies. Thousands of factories have stopped operating, while manufacturing continues to account for only a small share of an economy dominated by oil.

With crude revenues accounting for nearly 90% of government income, rebuilding industry has become a major challenge for Iraq as it seeks to create jobs, reduce imports and strengthen economic stability.

Aqeel al-Sayegh, deputy head of the Iraqi Industrialists Union, noted that some factories have begun returning to production, while new facilities have also started operations in recent years.

Al-Sayegh pointed to measures aimed at protecting local manufacturers, including customs restrictions on imported goods that compete with Iraqi products.

"We introduced protection measures for Iraqi products that have imported alternatives and imposed tariffs of 100% on cardboard, 65% on carpets, as well as measures covering juices, cakes, dairy products, disposable goods, PVC (rigid plastic used in pipes and windows), iron and other products," he explained.

He added that Iraq’s industrial exports now include construction materials, iron products and metal containers used in food and beverage industries, but maintained that more support is needed to help local producers compete.

"We have brought thousands of factories back into operation. The number of operating factories has reached around 37,000, while nearly 35,000 factories remain inactive," al-Sayegh remarked.

Many of those inactive facilities could return to production if they receive stronger government backing, he added, criticizing the ‘’gap between official commitments and actual implementation.’’

Beyond efforts to reopen factories, Iraq’s industrial recovery depends on addressing deeper structural challenges, including the shortage of locally available raw materials and limited industrial supply chains.

Al-Sayegh identified petrochemicals as one of the sectors with the greatest potential, arguing that Iraq’s continued burning of associated gas represents a missed opportunity to develop industries based on locally available resources.

"The gas that is being burned today could produce real wealth through petrochemicals and plastic pellets, while oil can also be used to produce materials that enter industries such as detergents and cosmetics," he stated.

Nawar al-Saadi, a professor of international economics, noted that Iraq needs to rethink the role of imports rather than simply attempt to reduce them.

Al-Saadi maintained that imports should support domestic production by providing machinery, technology and industrial materials instead of replacing locally made products.

"Imports should focus on providing raw materials, technology and equipment needed by Iraqi industries rather than flooding markets with products that can be manufactured locally," he explained.

Advocating for a national industrial strategy focused on sectors where Iraq has potential advantages, including food production, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals and construction materials, he stressed that improving electricity supplies, simplifying administrative procedures, strengthening banking services and linking vocational training with industrial needs would also be necessary to create a more competitive business environment.

Read more: Iraq’s economic “perfect storm”: Experts warnthe crisis is structural and social

While industrial policy remains a central concern, other analysts believe the management of existing industrial assets will also play a key role in Iraq’s recovery.

Economic analyst Ahmed Adnan argued that restructuring inactive state-owned factories should be among Iraq’s priorities, with greater private-sector involvement helping transform those facilities into productive investments.

Calling for specialized industrial zones equipped with infrastructure and reliable energy supplies, he cited Iraq’s dependence on imports, which cover around 80% of domestic needs, as an opportunity for local manufacturers to expand production.

"If Iraq can produce these needs domestically, it will not only reduce imports but could also become an exporter to neighboring countries," he stated, referring to the importance of energy sector reform, agricultural development and stronger protections for investors as conditions needed to attract more domestic and foreign capital.

Beyond infrastructure and investment, some analysts believe that Iraq’s resource base itself offers untapped opportunities for industrial growth.

Mustafa al-Faraj, an economic analyst, viewed Iraq’s natural resources as a potential foundation for industrial expansion if they are transformed into finished products rather than remaining limited to extraction.

Al-Faraj cited resources such as silica sand, which could support several manufacturing sectors, calling for measures including incentives for factories, easier access to financing, specialized industrial zones and improved transport networks to lower production costs and strengthen exports.

"Natural resources should not remain limited to extraction," al-Faraj stated. "They should be transformed into industries that create jobs, generate exports and add greater value to the economy."

Read more: Can "Made in Iraq" rise again? Challenges and hopes for local manufacturing

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Industry-revival-key-to-diversifying-Iraq-s-economy-experts-say

CBI Cash Holdings Fall 70 Percent

2026-07-20 07:05   Shafaq News- Baghdad   Cash held in the vaults of the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) fell to 566 billion Iraqi dinars at the end of April 2026, down from 1.907 trillion dinars at the end of December 2025.

According to CBI data, the decline was continuous across the four-month period. Cash holdings at 1.524 trillion dinars at the end of January, 1.005 trillion dinars at the end of February, and 849 billion dinars at the end of March, before reaching the April figure.

The total drawdown amounted to about 1.341 trillion dinars over four months, a decrease of 70.3 percent against the level recorded at the close of 2025.

Measured against earlier years, the April figure remains above the 323 billion dinars registered at the end of 2023. It is 72.9 percent below the end-2024 level of 2.092 trillion dinars.

Over the same January to April period, the official exchange rate held steady at 1,300 dinars to the US dollar, according to the data. Inflation rose gradually across those months, from 0.9 percent in January to 1.7 percent at the end of April.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/CBI-cash-holdings-fall-70-percent

SOMO To Revive Iraq’s Gas Oil Purchases After 18 Months

2026-07-20 08:00    Shafaq News- Baghdad  Iraq’s State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO) is seeking to buy 127,500 tons (949,875 barrels) of gas oil for August and September delivery, its first such purchase since January 2025, according to a tender document reviewed by Reuters.

The state marketer requested gas oil containing 2,500 parts per million of sulfur, with the first 40,000-ton cargo to be loaded by August 1, returning Iraq to the gas oil purchase market after imports were halted in November 2025 upon declaring self-sufficiency in gas oil, gasoline, and kerosene.

SOMO figures showed Iraq imported no gas oil or kerosene during the first quarter of 2026, while gasoline imports fell 66.1% year on year.

Iraq had expanded domestic fuel production through the 140,000-barrel-per-day Karbala refinery and new refining units, allowing the government to reduce imports and direct surplus petroleum products toward exports.

The tender document did not state why SOMO had returned to the purchase market, but it was issued as renewed US-Iran tensions disrupted energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, the route connecting Iraq’s southern Gulf terminals to international markets.

Read more: Iraq's energy vulnerability: When a petro-state has no buffer

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/SOMO-to-revive-Iraq-s-gas-oil-purchases-after-18-months

Gold Prices Slide In Baghdad And Erbil

2026-07-20 04:36    Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   On Monday, gold prices fell in Baghdad and Erbil, hovering around 850,000 IQD per mithqal, according to Shafaq News market survey.

Gold prices on Baghdad's Al-Nahr Street recorded a selling price of 848,000 IQD per mithqal (equivalent to five grams) for 21-carat gold, including Gulf, Turkish, and European varieties, with a buying price of 844,000 IQD. The same gold had sold for 856,000 IQD on Sunday.

The selling price for 21-carat Iraqi gold stood at 818,000 IQD, with a buying price of 814,000 IQD.

In jewelry stores, 21-carat Gulf gold ranged between 850,000 and 860,000 IQD per mithqal, while Iraqi gold sold for between 820,000 and 830,000 IQD.

In Erbil, 22-carat gold was sold at 900,000 IQD per mithqal, 21-carat gold at 860,000 IQD, and 18-carat gold at 736,000 IQD.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-prices-slide-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil

Dollar Dips In Baghdad And Erbil

2026-07-20 04:12  Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil  The US dollar opened Monday's trading lower in Iraq, hovering around 151,000 dinars per 100 dollars in Baghdad and Erbil.

According to Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded in Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges at 150,800 dinars per 100 dollars, down from Sunday's 152,600 dinars.

In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 151,250 dinars and bought it at 150,250 dinars.

In Erbil, selling prices stood at 151,550 dinars and buying prices at 151,300 dinars.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-dips-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Monday Evening 7-20-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

US-Iran Conflict Escalates as Oil Prices Jump and Hormuz Crisis Deepens

Fresh U.S. strikes and Iranian retaliation intensify pressure on global energy markets, trade routes, and financial stability.

 Overview

• The United States launched new military strikes against Iranian military infrastructure as fighting intensified across the Gulf region.

• Iran responded with attacks against U.S. allies and warned that military operations could expand beyond the current conflict.

• Oil prices climbed sharply as the Strait of Hormuz remained heavily disrupted, renewing concerns over global energy supplies, inflation, and international trade.

Key Developments

1. U.S. Expands Military Operations Against Iran

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed new strikes targeting Iranian surveillance facilities, logistics infrastructure, underground weapons storage sites, and naval assets. The attacks marked another escalation following several consecutive days of military operations aimed at degrading Iran's military capabilities.

Iran condemned the strikes as a violation of previous diplomatic understandings, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accusing Washington of breaking earlier commitments and undermining prospects for renewed negotiations.

2. Iran Broadens Regional Response

Iran responded by launching attacks against facilities in several U.S.-aligned Gulf nations. Reports indicated that energy infrastructure, water facilities, and other strategic sites were targeted, while regional air defense systems intercepted multiple incoming missiles.

Senior Iranian officials warned that future retaliation would no longer be limited to proportional responses, raising concerns that additional countries or strategic shipping routes could become involved if hostilities continue.

3. Oil Markets React to Hormuz Disruptions

Global energy markets reacted quickly as crude oil prices rose more than 4%, reflecting renewed fears over supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz, which normally carries roughly one-fifth of the world's seaborne oil and liquefied natural gas.

With shipping activity already constrained, traders continue monitoring the risk of prolonged disruptions that could place additional upward pressure on energy prices, transportation costs, and global inflation.

Why It Matters

The renewed escalation demonstrates how rapidly geopolitical conflict can affect the global economy. Even without a complete closure of the Strait of Hormuz, military tensions increase shipping risks, insurance costs, and uncertainty throughout global energy markets.

Higher energy prices can contribute to persistent inflation, complicate central bank interest-rate decisions, increase transportation expenses, and place additional pressure on businesses and consumers worldwide.

 Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Foreign currency holders continue watching developments in the Middle East because energy markets remain one of the strongest drivers of global monetary conditions. Sustained increases in oil prices can influence inflation, interest-rate policies, sovereign debt financing, and investor demand for reserve currencies, all of which may affect long-term currency valuations and international capital flows.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Debt

Higher energy prices can prolong inflation, making it more difficult for central banks to reduce interest rates and increasing borrowing costs for governments already carrying historically high debt levels.

• Pillar 2: Trade

Continued disruption around the Strait of Hormuz threatens one of the world's most important energy corridors, increasing shipping costs, delaying deliveries, and placing additional strain on global supply chains.

• Pillar 5: Energy

The conflict reinforces the strategic importance of energy security as nations seek to diversify supply routes and reduce vulnerability to geopolitical chokepoints.

Future Outlook

Markets will closely monitor whether diplomatic efforts resume or whether military operations continue to expand across the Gulf region. Any additional disruption to the Strait of Hormuz—or other regional shipping corridors—could drive further increases in oil prices, strengthen safe-haven assets such as gold, and increase volatility across global financial markets.

Investors will also watch for any renewed negotiations between Washington and Tehran, as well as policy responses from major oil-producing nations seeking to stabilize global energy supplies.

This is not simply about rising oil prices—it reflects the broader transformation of the global financial system as energy security, trade flows, and geopolitical power increasingly shape the future of the world economy.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• CoinGape — US Strikes Iran Despite Tehran Threatening Full-Scale War, Oil Prices Surge

• Reuters — Middle East conflict and oil market coverage

~~~~~~~~~~

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Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

RV Facts with Proof Links Link

RV Updates Proof links - Facts Link

Start Here room with Most Asked Questions 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 Monday Afternoon 7-20-26

'Provide Security Guarantees': Trump Urged Iraqi PM to Protect US Firms in Kurdistan

A Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) member of the Iraqi Parliament, Sipan Sherwani, revealed details regarding recent economic agreements signed in Washington, while simultaneously warning of a critical shortfall in refined petroleum products allocated to the Kurdistan Region for domestic consumption.

Strategic Energy Agreements with American Firms

Speaking to Channel8, Sherwani confirmed that Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi finalized several strategic contracts with major U.S. corporations during his official visit to Washington. The signed frameworks cover upstream oil exploration, midstream petroleum transport, and refining capacity, measures designed to strengthen national revenues and support long-term economic stability.

Prior to the delegation's arrival, envoy Tom Barrack conveyed a message from U.S. President Donald Trump urging the Iraqi federal government to guarantee security and commercial assurances for American enterprises, particularly those operating within the Kurdistan Region. Sherwani noted that two of the U.S. energy companies signing agreements had previously established operational presence in the region's natural gas sector.

Fuel Disparity and Budget Allocations

Addressing the ongoing fuel shortage in the Kurdistan Region, Sherwani highlighted a widening gap between federal oil allocations and regional demand. Under current federal budget amendments, the Kurdistan Region is assigned 50,000 barrels of oil per day for domestic refining and consumption, compared to 1,000,000 barrels per day designated for Iraq's remaining 15 governorates.

Sherwani stated that because the Kurdistan Region accounts for approximately 14 percent of the nation's total population, an equitable distribution based on federal figures would require 140,000 barrels per day to fully resolve local fuel deficits.

Proposed Legislative and Federal Solutions

To address the regional energy shortfall, the KDP lawmaker outlined three potential regulatory and policy pathways:

• Direct Federal Transfers: Requesting the federal Ministry of Oil to immediately ship refined fuel products to northern governorates to alleviate immediate shortages.

• Legislative Integration: Securing fixed regional supply quotas within the upcoming national Oil and Gas Law.

• Budgetary Revisions: Amending the Federal General Budget Law to adjust the daily crude-for-domestic-use ratio to mirror population demographics. https://channel8.com/english/news/61704

 Iraqi Finance Committee and Ministry Review Lending Laws to Boost Revenue and Support Treasury 

Daban Mohammed   The Parliamentary Finance Committee hosted Finance Minister Faleh al-Sari to finalize essential amendments to fiscal legislation, targeting enhanced state revenues and public budget efficiency.

The meeting, chaired by MP Uday Awad Kadhim and attended by committee members, was held on Monday to discuss legislative proposals, amendments to lending laws, and joint strategies to boost state revenues. 

The session also drafted the necessary amendments to align them with both statutory and financial requirements.

Committee Chairman Awad Demands Stronger Coordination 

Kadhim stressed “the importance of strengthening coordination between the committee and relevant executive bodies.” 

He noted that this cooperation reinforces legislative and oversight mechanisms while adhering to constitutional and legal frameworks to ensure legislation effectively meets current needs.

Al-Sari: Cooperation Vital to Reforming Borrowing Law 

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Faleh al-Sari reviewed the prominent legislation under discussion, led by the Borrowing, Grants, and Subsidies Law, emphasizing “the vital importance of ongoing cooperation and coordination between the Ministry of Finance and the Parliamentary Finance Committee to overcome obstacles, maximize public revenues, and support the state treasury in meeting its financial needs.”

Finance Committee Finalizes Statutory Amendments

The meeting further featured extensive discussions on completing the technical and legal aspects of the statutory amendments within constitutional and legislative frameworks. 

The Finance Committee reaffirmed its commitment to boosting state resources and public finance efficiency to support the general budget and achieve economic integration.

Advancing Alternative Financing Amid Deficits and U.S.-Iraq Agreements

This high-level legislative session between parliament and the Ministry of Finance comes amid severe budget deficits and escalating regional pressures. 

Iraq is restructuring its economy amid an anti-corruption crackdown, with lawmakers urging a shift from high-interest foreign loans to alternative financing like the amended Borrowing, Grants, and Subsidies Law.

Concurrently, Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s recent return from Washington saw the signing of 48 strategic agreements valued at over $60 billion to focus on commercial investments and energy modernization.   https://channel8.com/english/news/61716

Iraq Seeks Economic Overhaul Through Sixty Billion Dollar U.S. Partnership

Mohammed Jangadost  Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi returned to Baghdad following an official visit to the United States, where Iraqi public and private institutions signed 48 strategic agreements and memorandums of understanding valued at more than $60 billion.

The landmark economic framework aims to expand bilateral cooperation beyond security into commercial investment, energy, and infrastructure development, though unresolved domestic political challenges and opposition from armed factions threaten its implementation.

Scope of the Economic Partnership

The signed agreements establish a structure to attract major American corporations to Iraq, part of a broader effort by the al-Zaidi administration to stabilize the national economy amidst ongoing regional tension between the United States and Iran.

Beyond large-scale energy infrastructure projects designed to modernize power grids and expand natural gas production, the framework covers commercial trade, pharmaceutical manufacturing, telecommunications, and agricultural development.

 Additionally, the bilateral arrangement includes expanded financial cooperation between the Central Bank of Iraq and international institutions to accelerate banking reforms and facilitate foreign direct investment.

Governance Hurdles and American Conditions

Despite receiving backing from major political alliances such as the Coordination Framework and the State Administration Coalition, the prime minister faces significant domestic hurdles. Officials in Washington have emphasized that long-term support and full investment implementation remain contingent on key administrative reforms. Specifically, the administration must complete pending cabinet appointments, implement systemic measures to curb public sector corruption, and enforce state control over weaponry by disarming non-state armed groups.

Disarmament Deadlines and Factional Resistance

The agreements have drawn criticism from local armed factions aligned under the Islamic Resistance front, who characterize the diplomatic pivot as a transition from military presence to economic dominance.

Key factions, including Kata'ib Hezbollah, Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, and Sayyid al-Shuhada, have maintained their refusal to surrender arms. A September 30 deadline serves as an upcoming benchmark for the government to demonstrate measurable progress on voluntary disarmament, after which state officials indicate military or law enforcement actions could be considered.

Security Context and Strategic Outlook

Recent security incidents and strikes targeting positions in the Kurdistan Region are interpreted by political observers as explicit warnings against deepening security and economic ties with Washington. Upon returning to Baghdad, Prime Minister al-Zaidi reiterated his commitment to fulfilling the terms of the strategic framework.

The coming months will determine whether the administration can effectively resolve internal security risks to implement the $60 billion partnership or remain bogged down by domestic conflict.   https://channel8.com/english/news/61684