Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Friday Morning 3-27-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps

Global Reset Pressure Builds: Energy Shock and Ceasefire Signals Shake Financial Markets

Geopolitical tensions and fragile diplomacy are driving volatility across energy, currencies, and global capital flows

Overview (Key Points)

Global financial markets are being driven by geopolitical developments at an unprecedented level, with the Middle East conflict now acting as a primary force behind energy prices, inflation, and investor behavior.

In the last 24 hours, markets showed temporary relief, as reports of a potential U.S.–Iran ceasefire framework lifted equities and pushed oil prices lower. This reflects how expectations—not confirmed outcomes—are steering global markets.

Despite this optimism, underlying risks remain elevated, particularly around energy supply disruptions, restricted trade routes, and inflation persistence, all of which continue to pressure the global system.

The broader implication is critical: the global economy is entering a phase where geopolitics, energy control, and monetary policy are converging, accelerating conditions aligned with a potential global financial reset.

Key Developments

1. Ceasefire Signals Trigger Short-Term Market Relief

Markets reacted quickly to signs of possible diplomatic progress.
    • Global equities rose across major regions, including the U.S. and Europe
    • Oil prices pulled back after recent spikes above $100 per barrel
    • Investors are positioning for a potential de-escalation scenario

2. Energy Markets Remain the Core Systemic Risk

Short-term relief has not resolved deeper structural issues.
    • The Strait of Hormuz disruption threatens ~20% of global oil supply
    • Energy infrastructure instability is reshaping global supply chains
    • Oil continues to act as the primary driver of inflation and market volatility

3. Inflation Pressures Complicate Central Bank Policy

Energy shocks are feeding directly into monetary policy challenges.
    • Rising oil prices contribute to persistent global inflation
    • Central banks are forced to delay rate cuts or maintain tight policy
    • Creates a prolonged environment of high borrowing costs and reduced liquidity

4. Capital Flows Shift Toward Safety and Commodities

Investor behavior reflects rising uncertainty.
    • Increased movement into gold and safe-haven assets
    • Stronger demand for U.S. dollar during volatility cycles
    • Commodities, especially energy, are becoming dominant macro drivers

5. Global Growth Risks Intensify Under Energy Shock

Economic conditions are weakening beneath the surface.
    • Higher energy costs are reducing consumer spending power
    • Businesses face rising input costs and margin pressure
    • Increasing probability of global slowdown or recession scenario

Why It Matters

This moment highlights a structural shift in how the global financial system operates, where geopolitical events are now equal to or greater than economic fundamentals in driving outcomes.

Energy has become the central transmission mechanism, linking conflict directly to inflation, interest rates, and market stability. This creates a feedback loop that can amplify volatility across all asset classes.

For policymakers, the challenge is intensifying. They must navigate inflation control, economic growth, and financial stability simultaneously, often with limited tools and increasing external pressures.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

    • Currency volatility is rising alongside oil price fluctuations
    • Strong energy prices can weaken oil-importing currencies
    • Safe-haven flows strengthen the U.S. dollar during uncertainty
    • Purchasing power is increasingly tied to energy-driven inflation

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Energy Control as the Foundation of Financial Power

The current environment reinforces that control over energy supply routes and pricing is central to global economic influence. Nations that can secure or redirect energy flows gain leverage over markets and currencies.

• Pillar 2: Transition Toward a Multi-Polar Financial System

As geopolitical blocs respond differently to the crisis, the system is gradually shifting toward regional alliances and diversified financial structures, reducing reliance on a single global framework.

Conclusion

The past 24 hours have demonstrated how quickly global markets can shift based on geopolitical signals, even in the absence of concrete outcomes. This reflects a system that is highly sensitive, interconnected, and increasingly fragile.

While ceasefire discussions offer temporary relief, the underlying structural risks remain unresolved, particularly in energy markets and global supply chains.

The direction is becoming clearer: the global financial system is being reshaped by geopolitics, resource control, and monetary constraints.

This is not just market volatility — it’s a real-time stress test of the global financial system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters — "Global Markets Rise, Oil Falls on Ceasefire Hopes"

• World Economic Forum — "Energy Shock Shakes Global Financial Markets"

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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

~~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

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RV Facts with Proof Links Link

RV Updates Proof links - Facts Link

Follow the Gold/Silver Rate COMEX

Follow Fast Facts

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Thank you Dinar Recaps

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Friday Morning 3-27-26

Gold Is Heading For Its Fourth Consecutive Weekly Loss Despite Its Rise.

Money and Business   Economy News - Follow-up   Gold prices rose more than 1 percent on Friday, supported by buying, but are on track for a fourth consecutive weekly loss as rising energy prices fueled inflation concerns and reinforced expectations of a global interest rate hike.

By 0228 GMT, spot gold had advanced 1.1 percent to $4,428.30 an ounce, but the precious metal was down about 1.3 percent since the start of the week.

The dollar weakened, making gold, which is priced in US dollars, cheaper for holders of other currencies.

Gold has fallen by about 17 percent since the start of the US-Israeli war on Iran on February 28, pressured by the rise of the dollar, which has increased by more than two percent during that period.

Brent crude oil prices surpassed $105 a barrel, raising concerns about inflation as the conflict brought shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for about one-fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas flows, to a near standstill.

Rising oil prices threaten to increase transportation and manufacturing costs, further fueling inflationary pressures. While inflation typically enhances gold's appeal as a hedge, rising interest rates put pressure on the non-yielding metal.

According to the CME FedWatch tool, traders are completely ruling out any easing of US monetary policy in 2026, compared to previous expectations that pointed to two interest rate cuts before the outbreak of the conflict.

US President Donald Trump said he would extend the deadline before launching strikes on Iranian energy facilities until April, adding that talks with Iran were going "very well."

However, an Iranian official criticized the US proposal to end the war, calling it "unilateral and unfair."

As for other precious metals, the price of silver in spot trading rose 1.1 percent to $68.80 an ounce.

Platinum rose 2.1 percent to $1,865.13 in spot trading, while palladium gained 2.7 percent to $1,389.80.

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=67169

The European Central Bank Warns Of Financial Pressures Due To The Iran War

Banks   Economy News - Follow-up   Luis de Guindos, vice president of the European Central Bank, said that banks in the Eurozone have limited direct exposure to the war in the Middle East, but the conflict could lead to systemic pressures given the interconnectedness of vulnerabilities.

Financial markets have been under pressure in recent weeks due to the impact of the US-Israeli war on Iran, but selling outside the Middle East has remained limited even as some assets remain at levels above their fair value.

"The repercussions for the financial sector in the Eurozone remain limited so far," De Guindos said in a statement on Thursday, according to Reuters.

 He added: "The banks' direct exposure to the region is limited, and the banking system is in a good position thanks to strong profitability and strong capital and liquidity reserves."

But de Guindos said there were wider risks given the interconnectedness of the financial system, adding: "In an already heightened state of global uncertainty, this conflict could expose a web of vulnerabilities and cause systemic stresses."

He stated that the war threatens to undermine market confidence at a time when asset valuations are rising, which could lead to a sharp repricing of risks for banks and governments, with increased pressure in the non-bank financial sector.

De Guindos reiterated the European Central Bank's warning of rising inflation and slowing growth due to the war, but said it would take more time to understand the full impact. "We are firmly committed to ensuring that inflation reaches our 2% target over the medium term," he said.  https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=67164

How Has The Iran War Affected Global Air Freight Rates?

Money and Business   Economy News - Follow-up    The military escalation in the Middle East is no longer just putting pressure on oil and energy markets; it has begun to impact air freight, one of the most sensitive sectors of global trade. With the closure of major airspaces, disruptions to transit traffic in key hubs like Dubai and Doha, and soaring jet fuel and insurance prices, air freight rates have skyrocketed. Meanwhile, disruptions to maritime shipping have prompted some companies to shift from sea to air freight despite the higher costs.

World ACD Reveals Air Freight Data: 

The average global air freight rate rose during the week ending March 15, 2026 by 10% week-on-week to $2.67 per kilogram inclusive of fees, following an 8% increase the previous week.

 Global spot prices rose by 12% to $3.19 per kilogram, while the biggest jump was in the Middle East and South Asia, where spot prices reached $4.37 per kilogram, a weekly increase of 22% and an annual increase of 58%.

On some of the main tracks, the jumps appeared more pronounced:

 Shipping costs from South Asia to Europe have increased by 70%.

From South Asia to North America, 58%.

From Europe to the Middle East, 55%.

This reflects the widening scope of the impact, from a regional crisis to a disruption affecting global supply chains.

 Reduced Capacity Fuels Price Increases

This surge is not so much related to a normal increase in demand as it is to a shock in capacity. The closure of airspace, even partially, over a number of Gulf countries, coinciding with the disruption of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, has pulled out a significant portion of available global capacity, forcing airlines to cancel flights or reroute them via longer and more expensive routes.

Professor of Aviation Management at Surrey University, Nadine Aitani, says that one of the main reasons for the rise in air freight prices is “the sharp decline in the capacity of Gulf airlines after they closed, even partially, the airspace over Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.”

She adds that Dubai and Doha are among the world's largest air transit hubs, and that Middle Eastern airlines account for about 13% of global air cargo capacity, meaning that any widespread disruption to them is immediately reflected in the international market.

Aitani told Al Jazeera Net that the problem is not only related to the cancellation of some flights, but also that alternative routes consume more fuel, forcing planes to carry additional quantities of fuel, which reduces the space available for cargo and raises costs at the same time.

 Longer Routes

Avoiding the conflict zone has altered the air traffic map on several major trade routes, particularly between Asia and Europe. Instead of transiting through Gulf distribution hubs, many airlines have been forced to operate longer flights with less efficient and flexible stopovers.

Aitani points out that the capacity of the China-Europe air corridor has decreased by more than 35% due to the closure of Gulf distribution centers, while resorting to the sea route around the Cape of Good Hope adds between 10 and 15 days to the transit time, a difference that is not commensurate with the nature of perishable goods or shipments that depend on rapid delivery.

This problem is also evident in what Cathay Pacific CEO Ronald Lam announced, when he explained that many cargo flights to Europe used to stop in Dubai to refuel and load more goods, but the company has started bypassing this stop and heading directly to Europe with cargo restrictions due to the inability to refuel along the way.

 From Sea To Air

With some of the shipping traffic in the Gulf disrupted and more than 100 container ships stranded near the Strait of Hormuz, according to Reuters, some companies have turned to diverting some of their goods to air freight, even though this option is several times more expensive than sea freight.

Markets are particularly affected by this shift in the pharmaceutical, food and electronics sectors. Prashant Yadav, a pharmaceutical supply chain expert, told Reuters that some generic drugs and pharmaceutical ingredients coming from India used to be shipped by sea through the strait before being exported to Europe, Africa and some Arab countries, but a number of companies have started shipping them by air to avoid delays and maritime disruptions.

Aitani says that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has made the ports of the Arabian Gulf unavailable for direct sea freight from Asia, making air transport “the only available option despite the high costs.”

She adds that companies find themselves facing a difficult equation: either bear the increase in cost, or pass it on to the end consumer.

 Fuel And Insurance Premium

The pressure on air freight came not only from a lack of capacity, but also from high operating costs. Jet fuel prices increased by 11% weekly, to about 94% higher than pre-war levels, prompting carriers to impose additional fuel surcharges and war risk surcharges.

Aitani explains that fuel and insurance are two key items in the cost of air transport, and that any increase in them is quickly passed on to customers through additional fees. She warns that continued disruption for three to six months could keep fuel and insurance costs high across global supply chains.

Economist Ahmed Aql says that the war and military tensions have raised oil prices by about 45% since the beginning of the crisis, which has automatically been reflected in the costs of shipping companies.

He adds that changing routes, higher insurance costs, and the closure of some air and sea ports all explain the current surge in prices.

During his interview with Al Jazeera Net, Aql points out that some estimates suggest insurance costs could increase fivefold in some cases, meaning that companies are not only facing a higher fuel bill, but also a larger risk bill related to passing through a conflict zone.

 Businesses And Consumers

The escalating unrest began to force real changes in corporate decisions. Major shipping companies like Maersk imposed additional charges for fuel and war risks, while companies like FedEx and UPS resorted to temporary increases and fees on shipments related to the Middle East.

Major airlines have also announced a review of their networks and a reduction in some unprofitable capacity due to high fuel pressure.

Conversely, importing and manufacturing companies have begun to reassess their reliance on air freight itself. As prices rise, this mode of transport is increasingly limited to essential, high-value, or time-sensitive goods, such as pharmaceuticals, fresh food, and certain technological components.

Ahmed Aql believes that the impact of rising shipping costs cannot be separated from inflation, noting that most goods go through one or more stages of transport before reaching the consumer.

Therefore, increased transportation costs, according to reason, are reflected in the final price, weaken purchasing power, and, if they continue, may lead to a reduction in both demand and production, which reinforces fears of inflation, slowdown, and perhaps recession in some economies.

Despite some signs of partial recovery in shipping volumes out of the Middle East and South Asia, the overall picture remains highly volatile.

Some airports and airspaces have resumed limited operations, but capacity constraints, delays and bottlenecks remain, and the availability of jet fuel itself has become an uncertain factor at some key points.

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=67158

MilitiaMan and Crew: IRAQ DINAR UPDATE---Iraq is ready, when prudent happens!

MilitiaMan and Crew: IRAQ DINAR UPDATE---Iraq is ready, when prudent happens!

3-26-2026

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

The best and most relevant Iraqi Dinar News updates online. No drama. No intrigue. No songs and dances. Just straight news that Militiaman reads and interprets to the best of his ability after being an avid investor and insanely obsessed Dinarian for over 10 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=yIALhLGwVmc

FRANK26…3-26-26….SOMETHING FISHY

KTFA

Thursday Night Video

FRANK26…3-26-26….SOMETHING FISHY

This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only

Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie and Omar in Iraq and guests

Playback Number: 605-313-5163   PIN: 156996#

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oG0W8Lx_C8

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Evening 3-26-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

Global Power Imbalance: Iran’s Resilience Exposes U.S. Economic Vulnerability

Sanctions-hardened Iran faces limited downside while U.S. dependence on global stability amplifies economic risk

Overview (Key Points)

Iran’s long-standing economic isolation has reshaped its resilience, allowing it to operate under persistent sanctions and financial pressure for over a decade. This positions the country to absorb additional shocks more easily than major global economies.

In contrast, the United States remains deeply dependent on global stability, including secure trade routes, stable energy prices, and functioning supply chains. Any disruption—particularly in energy markets—creates outsized ripple effects across the U.S. economy.

The current geopolitical conflict highlights this imbalance, where Iran’s downside risk is limited, while the U.S. faces significant exposure to inflation, market instability, and economic slowdown.

The broader implication is critical: global financial power is no longer defined solely by size, but by resilience under stress and exposure to systemic dependencies.

Key Developments

1. Iran’s Sanctioned Economy Builds Shock Resistance

Iran has operated under heavy economic sanctions since 2010, forcing structural adaptation.
    • Economy has adjusted to restricted trade and financial isolation
    • Ability to withstand additional external pressure is significantly higher

2. U.S. Economy Highly Exposed to Global Disruptions

The U.S. relies on interconnected global systems for economic stability.
    • Supply chain disruptions and oil shocks directly impact inflation
    • Financial markets react sharply to geopolitical instability

3. Energy Supply Divide Intensifies Pressure

Iran is allowing BRICS-aligned nations access to oil flows, while Western access tightens.
    • Creates imbalanced energy distribution across global markets
    • Drives higher fuel costs and economic strain in Western economies

4. Recession Risks Continue to Rise Globally

Economic indicators suggest increasing vulnerability across major economies.
    • Global recession probability rising toward 40%
    • Energy shocks amplify inflation and reduce consumer purchasing power

5. BRICS Caught Between Alignment and Balance

BRICS nations face strategic tension between supporting Iran and maintaining Western ties.
    • Highlights internal fractures within emerging economic alliances
    • Forces careful geopolitical positioning in a multi-polar world

Why It Matters

This situation reveals a fundamental shift in global economic dynamics, where resilience under pressure is becoming as important as economic size and influence. Countries that can operate under stress may gain strategic advantages during periods of instability.

Energy disruptions remain the central driver. Rising oil prices impact inflation, production costs, and economic growth, increasing the likelihood of policy tightening and recessionary conditions.

For global markets, this creates an environment of heightened volatility, where geopolitical developments directly influence financial outcomes and investor behavior.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

    • Currency values may fluctuate with energy price volatility
    • Oil-importing nations face weakening purchasing power
    • Capital may shift toward resource-rich economies
    • Exchange rates increasingly tied to geopolitical exposure

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Resilience Over Dominance in Economic Power

The ability to withstand prolonged financial pressure is emerging as a key factor in global influence. Nations like Iran demonstrate how adaptation to sanctions can reduce vulnerability over time.

• Pillar 2: Energy and Trade Dependencies Redefine Risk

The U.S. and other major economies face increased exposure due to dependence on global trade and energy flows, signaling a shift where interdependence becomes a structural weakness during conflict.

Conclusion

The current conflict underscores a new reality in global economics, where resilience and independence are becoming critical measures of strength. Iran’s ability to endure prolonged sanctions contrasts sharply with the U.S. reliance on stable global systems.

As energy markets tighten and geopolitical tensions persist, the global economy faces increasing pressure from both inflation and slowing growth. These forces are converging to create a fragile financial environment.

The balance of power is evolving, shaped not just by economic scale, but by exposure to disruption and ability to adapt under stress.

This is not just a geopolitical conflict — it’s a redefinition of economic strength in a volatile world.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Watcher.Guru — "BRICS Member Iran Has Nothing To Lose, the US Does"

• Reuters — "Oil and Global Markets React to Middle East Conflict and Supply Risks"

~~~~~~~~~~

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Thank you Dinar Recaps

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Thursday Evening 3-26-26

ADNOC: Iran Curbs On Hormuz Amount To “Economic Terrorism”

2026-03-26 Shafaq News- Washington   Any Iranian restrictions on passage through the Strait of Hormuz would amount to “economic terrorism,” ADNOC CEO Sultan Al-Jaber said on Thursday.

ADNOC is the national oil company of Abu Dhabi and one of the world’s largest energy producers.

Speaking at a press conference in the United States, Al-Jaber warned that holding Hormuz “hostage” would raise fuel, food, and medicine costs worldwide, adding that no country should be allowed to destabilize the global economy.

Freedom of navigation through the strait is the “only durable solution” to stabilize global markets, he said.

Iran earlier this week emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz remains open, but only for “non-hostile” vessels coordinating with its authorities, according to Iranian outlets.   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/ADNOC-Iran-curbs-on-Hormuz-amount-to-economic-terrorism

Iraq Oil Exports Reach $6.8B In February

2026-03-26 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq exported 99,872,220 barrels of crude and condensate oil in February 2026 , generating $6.814 billion in revenue, the Oil Ministry said on Thursday.

Citing figures from the State Organization for Marketing of Oil (SOMO), the ministry noted that exports from central and southern fields accounted for the largest share at 93,349,480 barrels. The data also showed that exports from the Kurdistan Region via Turkiye’s Ceyhan port totaled 5,551,610 barrels, while shipments from the Qayyarah field reached 971,130 barrels.   In January, Iraq exported over 107.6 million barrels of crude oil, generating about $6.49 billion in revenue    https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-oil-exports-reach-6-8B-in-February

Basrah Crude Drops Over 8% Despite Global Oil Rise

2026-03-26 Shafaq News- Basra   Basrah crude fell more than 8% on Thursday, diverging from rising global oil prices.

Basrah Heavy dropped $9.75, or 8.22%, to $108.93 per barrel, while Basrah Medium fell by the same amount, 8.07%, to $111.03 per barrel.

Global benchmarks rose, with Brent at $103.22 per barrel and US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) at $91.50, recovering part of the previous session’s losses.

Iraqi crude is priced by destination: exports to Asia track the average of Dubai and Oman crude, shipments to Europe are benchmarked to Brent, and exports to the United States follow WTI, each with premiums or discounts based on market conditions.    https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Basrah-crude-drops-over-8-despite-global-oil-rise

Oil Rebounds $1 As Middle East Ceasefire Hopes Fade

2026-03-26 Shafaq News   Oil rose more than $1 per barrel on Thursday, ‌clawing back losses from the previous session, on concerns that protracted fighting in the Middle East will further disrupt energy flows.

Brent futures rose $1.65, or 1.61%, to $103.87 a barrel by 0424 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures were up $1.49, or 1.65%, at $91.81 a barrel.

Both benchmarks slumped more than 2% on Wednesday.

Iran is still reviewing a U.S. proposal to end the war, but has no intention of holding talks to end the Middle ⁠East conflict, Iran's foreign minister said on Wednesday.

U.S. President Donald Trump will hit Iran harder if Tehran fails to accept that the country has been "defeated militarily", White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said.

"Optimism regarding a ceasefire has faded," said Tsuyoshi Ueno, senior economist at NLI Research Institute.

He added that the bar set by Washington appeared high, leaving oil prices vulnerable to further volatility depending on negotiations and military actions by both sides.

Trump's 15-point proposal, sent through Pakistan, calls for removing Iran's stocks of highly enriched uranium, halting enrichment, curbing its ballistic missile program and cutting off funding for regional allies, according to three Israeli cabinet sources familiar ‌with ⁠the plan.

The conflict has all but halted shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which typically carries about one-fifth of the world's crude oil and liquefied natural gas supply. The International Energy Agency has called it the biggest-ever oil supply disruption.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi asked IEA chief Fatih Birol for an additional coordinated release of oil stockpiles during ⁠talks on Wednesday, as Tokyo seeks to hedge against a prolonged Middle East conflict.

Adding to supply concerns, at least 40% of Russia's oil export capacity is at a halt following Ukrainian drone attacks, a disputed attack on a major pipeline ⁠and the seizure of tankers, according to Reuters calculations based on market data.

Iraqi oil production has slumped, with storage tanks reaching high and critical levels, three Iraqi energy officials said on Wednesday.

U.S. crude inventories rose ⁠by 6.9 million barrels to 456.2 million barrels in the week ended March 20, the highest since June 2024 and far exceeding analysts' expectations in a Reuters poll for a 477,000-barrel increase. 

(Reuters)   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-rebounds-1-as-Middle-East-ceasefire-hopes-fade

USD/IQD Exchange Rates Climb In Baghdad And Erbil

2026-03-26 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   The US dollar opened Thursday’s trading higher in Iraq, hovering around 155,000 dinars per 100 dollars.

According to Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded in Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges at 154,700 dinars per 100 dollars, up from the previous session’s 154,500 dinars.

In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 155,250 dinars and bought it at 154,250 dinars, while in Erbil, selling prices stood at 154,450 dinars and buying prices at 154,350 dinars.   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/USD-IQD-exchange-rates-climb-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil-5

Dollar Drops In Baghdad, Rises In Erbil

2026-03-26 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   The US dollar closed Thursday’s trading mixed in Iraq, hovering around 154,000 dinars per 100 dollars.

According to a Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded in Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges at 154,500 dinars per 100 dollars, down from the morning session’s 154,700 dinars.

In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 155,000 dinars and bought it at 154,000 dinars, while in Erbil, selling prices stood at 154,550 dinars and buying prices at 154,400 dinars.

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

Gold Prices Dip In Baghdad, Erbil

2026-03-26   Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   On Thursday, gold prices hovered around 970,000 IQD per mithqal in Baghdad and Erbil markets, according to a survey by Shafaq News Agency.

Gold prices on Baghdad's Al-Nahr Street recorded a selling price of 965,000 IQD per mithqal (equivalent to five grams) for 21-carat gold, including Gulf, Turkish, and European varieties, with a buying price of 961,000 IQD. The same gold had sold for 993,000 IQD on Wednesday.

The selling price for 21-carat Iraqi gold stood at 935,000 IQD, while the buying price reached 931,000 IQD.

In jewelry stores, the selling price per mithqal of 21-carat Gulf gold ranged between 965,000 and 975,000 IQD, while Iraqi gold sold for between 935,000 and 945,000 IQD.

In Erbil, 22-carat gold was sold at 1.040 million IQD per mithqal, 21-carat gold at 993,000 IQD, and 18-carat gold at 850,000 IQD.  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-prices-dip-in-Baghdad-Erbil-0-2

Gold Stabilizes As Markets Await Middle East Developments

2026-03-26 Shafaq News   Gold prices held steady on Thursday, as investors awaited clearer signs ‌of progress in Middle East de-escalation efforts and stayed cautious ahead of fresh geopolitical developments that could shape safe-haven demand.

Spot gold was steady at $4,503.29 per ounce as of 0300 GMT. U.S. gold futures for April delivery lost 1.2% to $4,500.

Iran said it is reviewing a U.S. proposal to end the war, but added it has no intentions of holding talks ⁠to end the widening conflict, the country's foreign minister said on Wednesday.

The U.S. had sent a 15-point ceasefire proposal to Tehran earlier this week, reportedly via Pakistan.

"In the next 24 to 48 hours (gold prices) will just be about reacting to headlines about negotiations," said Kyle Rodda, a senior financial market analyst at Capital.com.

"The really big moves will happen probably at the start of next week when it becomes clearer whether the U.S. launches a ground invasion in Iran over the weekend..."

U.S. President Donald Trump vowed to hit Iran harder if Tehran failed to accept that ‌the ⁠country has been "defeated militarily", White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Wednesday.

Pressuring bullion, crude oil climbed above $100 a barrel as investors re-examined prospects for de-escalation in the Middle East.

Since the start of the U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran, Tehran has attacked nations that host U.S. bases and effectively closed the Strait ⁠of Hormuz, which handles a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas.

Higher crude prices tend to fuel inflation by pushing up transport and manufacturing costs. Although rising inflation typically boosts gold's appeal ⁠as a hedge, high interest rates weigh on demand for the non-yielding asset.

Markets are no longer pricing in any easing from the Federal Reserve this year, according to CME Group's FedWatch ⁠Tool. Before the conflict began, market expectations pointed to at least two rate cuts this year. FEDWATCH

Spot silver fell 0.1% to $71.19 per ounce. Spot platinum lost 0.7% to $1,906.90, while palladium fell 1.4% to $1,404.

(Reuters)    Gold stabilizes as markets await Middle East developments - Shafaq News

Jon Dowling: Latest Intel on the Great Wealth Transfer with High Profile Banker Mr B, March 2026

Jon Dowling: Latest Intel on the Great Wealth Transfer with High Profile Banker Mr B, March 2026

3-26-2026

In a recent, in-depth podcast episode with Jon Dowling, financial expert Mr. B shared his extensive knowledge on the current and future state of the global economy, with a particular focus on the precious metals market, and more specifically, silver.

With nearly three decades of experience at Charles Schwab and a contrarian understanding of the Keynesian system, Mr. B brought a unique perspective to the discussion.

Mr. B began by analyzing the current economic landscape, discussing market targets for key indices such as the S&P 500, Dow Jones, NASDAQ, and Russell 2000, as well as commodities like gold, silver, oil, the dollar index, and 10-year Treasury yields.

He updated his previous price targets, attributing the stagnation in the stock market to geopolitical tensions, particularly the conflict in Iran and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

This analysis provided a comprehensive backdrop for understanding the broader economic context in which silver is poised to play a significant role.

The core of Mr. B’s discussion centered on silver’s dual mandate as both a store of value and a critical industrial metal.

Silver is indispensable for emerging technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs), artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, robotics, healthcare, solar energy, and nuclear power.

Its unmatched electrical and thermal conductivity makes it a crucial component in batteries, electronics, medical devices, and various energy technologies. As the world transitions towards more sustainable and technologically advanced systems, the demand for silver is expected to skyrocket.

Mr. B and various experts cited in the podcast have made bullish price predictions for silver, ranging from $81 to as high as $500 per ounce, with many forecasts clustering between $100 and $300.

These predictions are based on silver’s growing demand in industrial applications, its role as a store of value, and the potential disruption of the current silver price manipulation mechanisms controlled by major banks and commodity exchanges like COMEX and LBMA.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the ongoing manipulation of silver prices by major financial institutions.

Mr. B noted that a true price discovery phase for silver will likely occur only once these institutions are disrupted or forced to settle physical silver at market prices. This “force majeure” event could trigger a dramatic surge in silver prices, making it an opportune time for investors to take a closer look at silver.

The podcast also touched on broader geopolitical factors that could influence silver demand and prices. For instance, China’s ambitions regarding Taiwan and Vietnam’s intention to back its currency with silver could significantly impact the global silver market. These developments underscore the complex interplay between geopolitics and commodity markets.

In addition to the in-depth analysis of silver, the conversation covered the cooling housing market, which is shifting into a buyer’s market, and the stock market’s potential “melt-up” phase, now possibly delayed due to geopolitical tensions.

The episode concluded with reflections on the possible return to a gold and silver-backed monetary system, referencing political initiatives like the Save America Act and the Clarity Act, and the potential role of figures such as Judy Shelton in reviving a gold standard.

The Jon Dowling podcast episode featuring Mr. B offered a rich, data-driven perspective on the future of silver in a transitioning global economy.

By blending historical, technological, geopolitical, and financial insights, Mr. B made a compelling case for why silver remains one of the most promising investments today.

As the world moves towards a new digital asset-backed economy and as geopolitical tensions continue to shape the global landscape, the role of silver is poised to become increasingly significant.

For those looking to deepen their understanding of these developments and their implications for investors, watching the full video from Jon Dowling’s podcast is highly recommended.

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

https://dinarchronicles.com/2026/03/26/jon-dowling-latest-intel-on-the-great-wealth-transfer-with-high-profile-banker-mr-b-march-2026/

This is What it Looks Like Right Before a Crash

This is What it Looks Like Right Before a Crash

Heresy Financial:  3-26-2026

The current economic landscape is marked by uncertainty, with rising US unemployment, geopolitical tensions, and recent market downturns fueling widespread fears of an impending market crash, recession, or even depression.

However, a closer examination of historical precedents and key market signals suggests that these fears may be unfounded.

In a recent video from Heresy Financial, the presenter makes a compelling case for cautious optimism, arguing that four primary indicators that typically precede major crashes and recessions are not currently flashing warning signs.

 Let’s take a closer look at these indicators and what they reveal about the current market context.

While the absence of these classic crash signals is reassuring, it’s essential to remain vigilant and prioritize prudent risk management. Protecting capital by avoiding large losses is paramount, as investing opportunities arise when risk is visible and manageable, not when markets appear euphoric or overheated.

By staying grounded in data rather than fear or hype, investors can navigate the current market uncertainty with confidence. The Heresy Financial video provides a nuanced and informed perspective on the current market landscape, and we recommend watching it for further insights.

In conclusion, while the current economic uncertainties are undeniable, a closer examination of key market signals suggests that the risk of an imminent crash or recession may be lower than feared.

By understanding the four primary indicators that typically precede major crashes and recessions, investors can make more informed decisions and stay calm amidst market turmoil. As always, prudent risk management and a cautious optimism grounded in data are essential for navigating the complexities of the market.

Watch the full video from Heresy Financial to gain a deeper understanding of the current market landscape and to stay ahead of the curve.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smgnu7s_CWw

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Thursday Afternoon 3-26-26

How Has The Iran War Affected Global Air Freight Rates?

Money and Business   Economy News - Follow-up    The military escalation in the Middle East is no longer just putting pressure on oil and energy markets; it has begun to impact air freight, one of the most sensitive sectors of global trade. With the closure of major airspaces, disruptions to transit traffic in key hubs like Dubai and Doha, and soaring jet fuel and insurance prices, air freight rates have skyrocketed. Meanwhile, disruptions to maritime shipping have prompted some companies to shift from sea to air freight despite the higher costs.

World ACD Reveals Air Freight Data:

 The average global air freight rate rose during the week ending March 15, 2026 by 10% week-on-week to $2.67 per kilogram inclusive of fees, following an 8% increase the previous week.

 Global spot prices rose by 12% to $3.19 per kilogram, while the biggest jump was in the Middle East and South Asia, where spot prices reached $4.37 per kilogram, a weekly increase of 22% and an annual increase of 58%.

On some of the main tracks, the jumps appeared more pronounced:

 Shipping costs from South Asia to Europe have increased by 70%.

From South Asia to North America, 58%.

From Europe to the Middle East, 55%.

This reflects the widening scope of the impact, from a regional crisis to a disruption affecting global supply chains.

 Reduced Capacity Fuels Price Increases

This surge is not so much related to a normal increase in demand as it is to a shock in capacity. The closure of airspace, even partially, over a number of Gulf countries, coinciding with the disruption of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, has pulled out a significant portion of available global capacity, forcing airlines to cancel flights or reroute them via longer and more expensive routes.

Professor of Aviation Management at Surrey University, Nadine Aitani, says that one of the main reasons for the rise in air freight prices is “the sharp decline in the capacity of Gulf airlines after they closed, even partially, the airspace over Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.”

She adds that Dubai and Doha are among the world's largest air transit hubs, and that Middle Eastern airlines account for about 13% of global air cargo capacity, meaning that any widespread disruption to them is immediately reflected in the international market.

Aitani told Al Jazeera Net that the problem is not only related to the cancellation of some flights, but also that alternative routes consume more fuel, forcing planes to carry additional quantities of fuel, which reduces the space available for cargo and raises costs at the same time.

 Longer Routes

Avoiding the conflict zone has altered the air traffic map on several major trade routes, particularly between Asia and Europe. Instead of transiting through Gulf distribution hubs, many airlines have been forced to operate longer flights with less efficient and flexible stopovers.

Aitani points out that the capacity of the China-Europe air corridor has decreased by more than 35% due to the closure of Gulf distribution centers, while resorting to the sea route around the Cape of Good Hope adds between 10 and 15 days to the transit time, a difference that is not commensurate with the nature of perishable goods or shipments that depend on rapid delivery.

This problem is also evident in what Cathay Pacific CEO Ronald Lam announced, when he explained that many cargo flights to Europe used to stop in Dubai to refuel and load more goods, but the company has started bypassing this stop and heading directly to Europe with cargo restrictions due to the inability to refuel along the way.

 From Sea To Air

With some of the shipping traffic in the Gulf disrupted and more than 100 container ships stranded near the Strait of Hormuz, according to Reuters, some companies have turned to diverting some of their goods to air freight, even though this option is several times more expensive than sea freight.

Markets are particularly affected by this shift in the pharmaceutical, food and electronics sectors. Prashant Yadav, a pharmaceutical supply chain expert, told Reuters that some generic drugs and pharmaceutical ingredients coming from India used to be shipped by sea through the strait before being exported to Europe, Africa and some Arab countries, but a number of companies have started shipping them by air to avoid delays and maritime disruptions.

Aitani says that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has made the ports of the Arabian Gulf unavailable for direct sea freight from Asia, making air transport “the only available option despite the high costs.”

She adds that companies find themselves facing a difficult equation: either bear the increase in cost, or pass it on to the end consumer.

 Fuel And Insurance Premium

The pressure on air freight came not only from a lack of capacity, but also from high operating costs. Jet fuel prices increased by 11% weekly, to about 94% higher than pre-war levels, prompting carriers to impose additional fuel surcharges and war risk surcharges.

Aitani explains that fuel and insurance are two key items in the cost of air transport, and that any increase in them is quickly passed on to customers through additional fees. She warns that continued disruption for three to six months could keep fuel and insurance costs high across global supply chains.

Economist Ahmed Aql says that the war and military tensions have raised oil prices by about 45% since the beginning of the crisis, which has automatically been reflected in the costs of shipping companies.

He adds that changing routes, higher insurance costs, and the closure of some air and sea ports all explain the current surge in prices.

During his interview with Al Jazeera Net, Aql points out that some estimates suggest insurance costs could increase fivefold in some cases, meaning that companies are not only facing a higher fuel bill, but also a larger risk bill related to passing through a conflict zone.

 Businesses And Consumers

The escalating unrest began to force real changes in corporate decisions. Major shipping companies like Maersk imposed additional charges for fuel and war risks, while companies like FedEx and UPS resorted to temporary increases and fees on shipments related to the Middle East.

Major airlines have also announced a review of their networks and a reduction in some unprofitable capacity due to high fuel pressure.

Conversely, importing and manufacturing companies have begun to reassess their reliance on air freight itself. As prices rise, this mode of transport is increasingly limited to essential, high-value, or time-sensitive goods, such as pharmaceuticals, fresh food, and certain technological components.

Ahmed Aql believes that the impact of rising shipping costs cannot be separated from inflation, noting that most goods go through one or more stages of transport before reaching the consumer.

Therefore, increased transportation costs, according to reason, are reflected in the final price, weaken purchasing power, and, if they continue, may lead to a reduction in both demand and production, which reinforces fears of inflation, slowdown, and perhaps recession in some economies.

Despite some signs of partial recovery in shipping volumes out of the Middle East and South Asia, the overall picture remains highly volatile.

Some airports and airspaces have resumed limited operations, but capacity constraints, delays and bottlenecks remain, and the availability of jet fuel itself has become an uncertain factor at some key points.

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=67158

Government Advisor: Diversifying Export Outlets Supports Economic Stability And Enhances Financial Balance.

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad   The Prime Minister’s financial advisor, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, confirmed on Thursday that Iraq’s location enhances its role in the global energy system, explaining that diversifying export outlets supports economic stability and strengthens financial balance.

 Saleh said that "Iraq, in its pursuit of a positive foreign policy based on the logic of negotiation and resolving conflicts by peaceful means instead of resorting to war, highlights the role of Iraqi diplomacy as an effective tool for gaining the respect of the international and regional communities."

 He explained that “peace economics is gaining increasing importance, as it is an approach aimed at promoting stability by establishing the principle of non-war in addressing conflicts, especially in the Arabian Gulf region, which is one of the most vital energy corridors in the world, and Iraq is one of its geostrategic components.

He added that “Iraq’s location and production capacity contribute to making it an active element within the global energy supply system, which requires it to adopt flexible policies that ensure the continuation of oil exports within the available capabilities, while preserving its vital interests in light of geopolitical challenges,” noting that “Iraq’s ability to diversify oil export outlets, and to continue exporting even in light of turbulent regional conditions, is a policy aimed at maintaining economic stability and enhancing the state’s financial break-even point without interruption.”

Saleh stressed that "the ability to pass some shipments through strategic waterways, such as the Strait of Hormuz, simultaneously reflects a level of balance in international relations and mutual respect for Iraqi oil policies within the international framework."

He noted that “despite the surrounding geopolitical challenges, the continued flow of oil exports through routes passing through sensitive areas, along with the diversification of land and sea export outlets, contributes to enhancing the resilience of the Iraqi economy and allows it to gradually rebuild its financial balance,” pointing out that “this approach enhances opportunities for engaging in broader international cooperation and underscores the importance of protecting international waterways as a prerequisite for the stability of global trade.”

He stated that "these policies are consistent with the principles of international law and the Charter of the United Nations, which emphasize the need to respect the sovereignty of states, promote good relations between them, and enshrine the right of peoples to live in dignity within a stable and secure environment, leading to the building of a more just and stable international system, and contributing to ending conflicts and achieving sustainable peace."

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=67157

Gold Prices Stabilize As Markets Await Signs Of De-Escalation In The Middle East.

Money and Business   Economy News - Follow-up   Gold prices were steady on Thursday as investors awaited clearer signs of progress in efforts to de-escalate the conflict in the Middle East, and remained cautious ahead of new geopolitical developments that could affect demand for safe-haven assets.

By 03:00 GMT, spot gold was trading at $4,503.29 per ounce. US gold futures for April delivery fell 1.2% to $4,500.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Wednesday that his country is studying the American proposal to halt the war but does not intend to hold talks to end the escalating conflict in the Middle East, according to Reuters.

 Reports indicate that the United States sent the 15-point proposal to Tehran earlier this week, via Pakistan.

Kyle Rodda, senior financial markets analyst at Capital.com, said: "In the next 24 to 48 hours, (gold prices) will move in accordance with news related to the negotiations."

He added: "The big moves are likely to really happen at the beginning of next week when it becomes clear whether the United States will launch a ground invasion of Iran over the weekend."

White House spokeswoman Caroline Leavitt said on Wednesday that US President Donald Trump vowed to strike Iran even harder if it did not accept "military defeat".

Gold came under increased pressure as crude oil prices surpassed $100 a barrel, with investors reassessing the prospects for easing tensions in the Middle East.

According to the CME FedWatch tool, markets no longer expect any monetary easing from the Federal Reserve this year. Before the conflict erupted, market expectations were for at least two US interest rate cuts this year.

As for other precious metals, silver fell 0.1% to $71.19 an ounce in spot trading. Platinum lost 0.7% to $1,906.90, and palladium dropped 1.4% to $1,404. https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=67147

4 Things To Consider Before Tapping Into Retirement Funds

4 Things To Consider Before Tapping Into Retirement Funds

Josephine Nesbit   Sun, March 22,   GoBankingRates

There’s a great deal of planning that goes into retirement, especially when it comes to deciding if, when and how to tap into your nest egg. Assessing your retirement fund is more than just covering your expenses. It can also affect your taxes, long-term income and investment growth.

Whether you’re approaching retirement age or considering withdrawals earlier than planned, here are several things to consider before tapping into your retirement funds.

What Are Your Needs?

Before tapping into your retirement funds, ask yourself how much you actually need and if it’s necessary.

According to the 2025 Annual Retirement Study from the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement, 64% of Americans worry more about running out of money than death. Kelly LaVigne, vice president of consumer insights at Allianz Life, noted that a strong retirement strategy can help address how long savings need to last.

Once funds are withdrawn from retirement accounts, it may be difficult or impossible to replace them. Modest withdrawals, if repeated over time or taken earlier than planned, can also shorten a portfolio’s life span.

What Are Your Sources of Income?

What are your predictable sources of income outside of your retirement accounts? This could be Social Security, pensions, part-time work or other income streams.

Social Security is often the baseline for guaranteed retirement income, helping cover essential expenses. While $2,071 per month, which is the average monthly Social Security retirement benefit for January 2026, per the Social Security Administration, doesn’t replace a full paycheck, it can help you reduce the amount you need to withdraw from retirement savings.

How Does Your Investment Mix Affect Your Withdrawal Rate?

To Continue and Read More:  https://www.yahoo.com/finance/markets/articles/4-things-consider-tapping-retirement-144905486.html

Did Iraq Just Signal a Revaluation?

Did Iraq Just Signal a Revaluation?

Dinar For Dummies:  3-26-2026

The Iraqi dinar has long been a topic of interest among currency investors and enthusiasts, with many speculating about the potential for a significant revaluation.

Recently, Steven, a seasoned entrepreneur and investor in the Iraqi dinar, shared his analysis on a significant development that could indicate a revaluation is closer than anticipated.

According to recently released U.S. Treasury data, Iraq has nearly doubled its holdings of U.S. Treasury bonds over the past 12 months, surging from $23.4 billion to $40.8 billion.

This represents a substantial 79% increase, sparking speculation about the motivations behind this significant investment.

Steven suggests that this move may be a strategic preparation for a potential currency revaluation, as Iraq positions itself to back its currency at a higher rate.

The current geopolitical landscape is complex and fluid, with ongoing conflicts and tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the war dynamics, and rising crude oil prices.

Steven highlights that these factors could strengthen Iraq’s economic position, potentially paving the way for a revaluation. The situation remains uncertain, with peace talks and military movements continuing to influence the region’s stability.

One key event that Steven is closely monitoring is a potential strike on the Iranian nuclear facility at Bushehr. Some speculate that this could be a precursor to the Iraqi dinar revaluation.

While it’s impossible to predict with certainty, Steven believes that these developments signal that a revaluation could be closer than many anticipate.

While Steven emphasizes that a revaluation is not expected imminently, the recent increase in Iraq’s U.S. Treasury bond holdings and the shifting geopolitical landscape suggest that it may be on the horizon.

As an investor or enthusiast, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt to changing circumstances.

For those interested in staying up-to-date on the latest developments, we encourage you to subscribe to updates and follow reliable sources, such as Dinar For Dummies. We’d also love to hear your thoughts on this topic – share your perspectives and insights in the comments below.

The recent surge in Iraq’s U.S. Treasury bond holdings has sparked speculation about a potential currency revaluation.

 While it’s impossible to predict with certainty, Steven’s analysis suggests that Iraq may be positioning itself for a significant financial move. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, it’s crucial to stay informed and adapt to changing circumstances.

 Will Iraq’s dinar revaluation be on the horizon? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the situation is worth watching closely.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VL8AKNW_5Bg

“News Tidbits From TNT” Thursday 3-26-2026

TNT:

Tishwash:  Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are putting pressure on sugar supply chains and threatening Iraq's exports.

Traders in global commodity markets warned on Thursday that continued disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could put increasing pressure on raw and refined sugar supply chains, amid rising shipping and insurance costs and declining supply flexibility through vital sea lanes in the Gulf.

 A report by the American company " S&P " stated that the region passes through about 10% of the world's raw sugar trade and 5% of refined sugar, making it a "vital artery" for food commodity flows, at a time when refineries have begun to face operational challenges due to rising energy and transportation costs.

He noted that refineries in the Gulf, including those in Iraq, Dubai, Bahrain and Iran, play a role in redistributing white sugar to regional markets, but current pressures could lead to supply restrictions and higher production and distribution costs.

He pointed out that any disruption to the flow of the Strait of Hormuz directly impacts import costs and food supplies in Iraq, especially since the country relies on imports to cover part of the local demand for sugar and basic foodstuffs, which could raise commodity prices in the local market if tensions continue.

Traders added that higher fuel prices and shipping costs resulting from "war risks" are increasing pressure on supply chains, at a time when regional refineries are trying to pass on costs to end markets or reduce operating levels.  link

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

The postponed budget and blocked corridors… Iraq between internal paralysis and lost opportunities

At a sensitive regional moment, with global oil prices soaring due to shipping disruptions and threats of closure of vital waterways, Iraq should have been one of the biggest beneficiaries of this boom. However, reality reveals a harsh paradox: a country almost entirely dependent on oil is unable to capitalize on the price surge, hampered by export disruptions and internal administrative chaos.

The budget crisis in Iraq cannot be separated from the broader regional context, particularly given the threats to vital maritime routes and the resulting disruptions or restrictions on oil exports. This highlights the gravity of the situation, where two negative factors converge simultaneously: internal paralysis due to political delays and external pressure stemming from geopolitical crises.

Iraq, which is supposed to have alternative plans for exporting its oil in emergencies, finds itself today shackled as a result of the lack of strategic planning and the delay in settling political entitlements, foremost among them the selection of the presidency of the republic and the presidency of the Council of Ministers, which has directly affected the obstruction of the approval of the budget, and thus the obstruction of the ability to act quickly in the face of crises.

The result is that the state loses twice:

Once its projects and services are disrupted due to budget shortfalls, and again when it misses the opportunity to capitalize on high oil prices due to export difficulties. This dual loss reveals the fragility of the economic structure and underscores that over-reliance on oil, without logistical and strategic alternatives, poses an existential threat to the Iraqi economy.

The continuation of this situation also weakens Iraq's position in regional competition, especially as neighboring countries move to secure alternative energy routes and strengthen their infrastructure, at a time when Iraq remains captive to internal political crises.

The current stage requires a radical shift in thinking, based on separating vital files—foremost among them the budget—from political disputes, and working to build a flexible export system that includes multiple outlets, including land routes and pipelines, to reduce dependence on threatened routes.

In conclusion, Iraq today faces not a single crisis, but a confluence of crises: delayed decision-making, geographical vulnerability, and missed opportunities. Unless this equation is addressed, the country will continue to pay the price for its strategic location instead of capitalizing on it. link

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

Tishwash: Trump: Talks with Iran are serious and we have 15 points for an agreement.

US President Donald Trump confirmed that the US talks with Iran were serious and took place with the participation of Wittkopf and Kushner, describing those talks as exemplary, while indicating that the United States and Iran reached common ground on most of the issues that were raised during the discussions.

Trump said the dispute would be resolved if the anticipated talks between the two sides were successful, indicating that Iran was seeking an agreement with the United States and that Washington shared this position, while also revealing plans to hold a meeting with Iranian officials in the near future.

The US president explained that the talks with Iran focus specifically on Tehran abandoning nuclear weapons and uranium enrichment operations, noting that if an agreement is reached, the United States will take the uranium from the Islamic Republic, stressing that any future agreement must prevent the possibility of new conflicts or the emergence of nuclear weapons in Tehran.

Trump claimed that the contacts between Washington and Tehran were initiated by the Iranian side, while simultaneously threatening to continue the bombing if the ongoing contacts between the two sides failed.

He added, "Any future agreement with Iran must prevent the possibility of new conflicts and the emergence of nuclear weapons, and we have 15 points for an agreement with Iran." link

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

Tishwash:  Talabani: Our communication with Baghdad is ongoing, and the war has negatively impacted the economy of the region and Iraq.

The Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government, Qubad Talabani, confirmed on Tuesday that communication channels with the federal government in Baghdad are continuing to address the economic and security repercussions resulting from the regional conflict. 

During a press conference attended by Shafaq News Agency, Talabani expressed his condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims of the attack that targeted a Peshmerga force at dawn today in the Soran area, wishing a speedy recovery to the wounded.

Talabani said, "Any attack targeting the Kurdistan Region is condemned and rejected," stressing that "the region declared from the beginning of the war that it would not be part of any conflict, and would not pose a threat to any neighboring country." 

He added that "the regional government reaffirms its position of not engaging in the ongoing war, and instead seeks to use its relationships to contribute to calming the situation."

Regarding the formation of the new government in the region, Talabani explained that “the passage of a year and five months since the elections did not prevent the continuation of efforts to form the government,” noting that there is “a difference of views with the Kurdistan Democratic Party on this issue, which is normal between two different parties,” while emphasizing at the same time “the need for more consensus at this stage.”

Regarding the relationship with the federal government, the Deputy Prime Minister of the region indicated that "there are ongoing efforts to improve relations with Baghdad and communication with them is continuous," explaining that "the tensions and war in the region have cast a negative shadow on the economy of the region and Iraq," stressing that "the joint committees continue their meetings and dialogues to resolve the outstanding issues between the two sides."

Last week, the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, Masrour Barzani, raised several issues with the Baghdad government, including attacks on the region, oil exports, and the ASYCUDA system, calling on the federal government in Baghdad to prevent attacks and address financial and organizational disputes.

Barzani said that the region supports oil exports, explaining that what is exported from Kurdistan amounts to about 230,000 barrels per day and will not exceed half a million barrels, compared to larger quantities exported by the federal government.

He pointed out that the regional government does not oppose exports, but demands guarantees for oil production in its fields that were damaged as a result of the attacks, calling on Baghdad to stop the targeting of oil fields.

He also demanded the payment of financial dues and salaries of the region's employees, stressing that the Kurdistan government is seeking to find a mechanism to resolve the disputes, and has submitted a proposal to hold meetings with the federal government to end the crisis.  link

News, Rumors and Opinions Thursday 3-26-2026

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

RV Excerpts from the Restored Republic via a GCR Update as of Thurs. 26 March 2026

Compiled Thurs. 26 March 2026 12:01 am EST by Judy Byington

Judy Note: Some of that exposure came out on Wed. 25 March as Federal Chairman Jerome Powell was confronted and asked to explain why we had a fiat US Dollar and there was no gold in Fort Knox. He admitted, “We print money out of nothing.”

An imminent Black Swan Financial Event along with the help of the Global Military Alliance, was expected to dismantle their stranglehold and spark 209 countries’ transition to gold/asset-backed XLM and XRP digital currencies.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thurs. 2 April 2026 Notification to set appointments: The overwhelming majority of my bond people are telling me that they will be done between now and April 2nd.The overwhelming majority of my groups and banking contacts believe they will go between the 2nd of April and the 15th of April. I don’t know the timing but that is what they are being told. …MarkZ on Tues. 24 March 2026

Tues. 24 March 2026 Wolvie says that bondholders are receiving notifications. He hopes for Tier 4B notifications today or tomorrow. Payments will start on Wed. 1 April 2026. We were waiting for ISO20022 to happen and it has, and it is working very well Wolvie says. It has been 100% successful! A lady at a bank called Wolvie, crying, saying this is the news we have been waiting for. Wolvie cannot say more due to NDAs. In a few days he will be fully under NDA and will be overseas. … Forwarded from Ginger Doucet

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fri. 27 March 2026 Deadline For The Federal Reserve …Mr. Pool Final Chapter

That’s all that’s left. March 27. The date they don’t want you to circle. Trump didn’t extend the Iran deadline because he’s negotiating. He extended it because the system isn’t ready yet. Let me explain what’s actually happening — and why you need to screenshot this message. Right now, at this very moment, three things are being moved simultaneously:

1. Gold. Central banks bought more gold in the last 90 days than in any quarter since 1967. Not investment banks. Central banks. The ones who WRITE the rules. They’re not buying gold because they’re scared. They’re buying it because they know what’s replacing the dollar.

2. Quantum nodes. The QFS backbone went from 12 active nodes in January to 67 active nodes as of last Friday. Each node processes 1.4 million transactions per second. You don’t build that kind of infrastructure for a system you’re not about to turn on.

3. SWIFT access keys. On March 16 — exactly 11 days before the deadline — Ripple’s partner Thunes quietly announced stablecoin payouts to 11,500 banks through SWIFT. They called it a “Smart Superhighway.” That’s not a partnership. That’s a replacement wearing a disguise.

Three moves. One deadline. March 27. Now here’s the part they’ll never say on television: The Iran war isn’t about Iran. It never was. Every bomb that falls on Tehran is a distraction from what’s happening in the server rooms underneath the Federal Reserve buildings in New York, Chicago, and San Francisco.

They’re migrating the ledger. $23 trillion in U.S. debt. $8 trillion in offshore accounts. Every transaction, every loan, every dark money transfer since 1971 — all of it is being moved from the old system to the new one. And when the migration is complete — the old system gets unplugged. That’s what March 27 is. Not a deadline for Iran. A deadline for the Federal Reserve.

Why do you think gold dropped from $5,595 to $4,384 in 8 weeks? That’s not a crash. That’s a controlled descent. They’re repricing gold for the new system. When QFS goes live, gold doesn’t trade in dollars anymore. It trades in quantum-verified weight.

The price you see today is the last dollar price gold will ever have. TIER 4B notifications are already queued. The 800 numbers have been tested. The redemption centers are staffed. I told you last week — the deals are signed. The gold has moved. The war is the cover. 72 hours.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Wed. 25 March 2026 ISO 20022 is a global messaging standard that defines how financial institutions exchange information for transactions (payments, securities, remittances). It replaces outdated, fragmented systems (like the old SWIFT messages) with a unified, data-rich digital language. …Tier4b ISO 20022 on Telegram

Why ISO 20022 Matters to XRP/XLM Investors: The global financial system, including SWIFT, the US Federal Reserve’s Fedwire, and many central banks, is migrating to ISO 20022, with a target date for full implementation by April 1, 2026. This standardization is critical for any crypto asset aiming to integrate with traditional finance.

Compliance is not optional; it is the entry barrier for servicing banks. XRP Ledger (XRPL) and Stellar Network (XLM) have been proactively aligning with this standard for years, giving them a massive head start in the race to modernize cross-border payments.

Read full post here:  https://dinarchronicles.com/2026/03/26/restored-republic-via-a-gcr-update-as-of-march-26-2026/

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

Jeff   Right now we're waiting for the war to finish.  Then when the war finishes, they can finish the formation of the government.  Then once the government formation is done the very next step will be the rate change.  Then after the rate changes they can do the 150+ laws.  After the rate changes they have a lot to do.

Frank26  What is it we need for the monetary reform/the new exchange rate to come out?  Security and stability from Iran.  We're that close to getting it.  That means the United States of America will be paid back...We do have a very good chance to see both governments [formed] maybe by the beginning of next month.

Militia Man  First Iraqi oil tanker has crossed the Strait of Hormuz since the outbreak of the war. Two gas tankers successfully crossed towards India...These are clear signs energy infrastructure and trade routes are being actively protected and diversified.  I think the light bulb should be coming on right now for all of us.  You got liquid natural gas going through the Hormuz.  You got Iraq's first ship going through since the war started.

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States Are Buying Precious Metals As A Hedge Against Economic Turmoil,Gold Destroys The Fed

X22 Report: 3-24-2026

The EU/Germany are realizing that everything changed, the path is no longer green and the great reset, they are now trapped in their decisions.

Trump is preparing the economy to take off, the [CB] has been holding back.

Remove the fraud and balance the budget and remove the income tax.

 States are now ramping up on precious metals.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d07kfa0g90A