Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Tuesday Afternoon 3-24-26

Oil Surges Past $103 Following Iranian Denial Of US Secret Negotiations

2026-03-24 Shafaq News   Oil prices rose on Tuesday on supply fear, as Iran denied it had talks with the United States to end the war in the Gulf, contradicting U.S. President Donald Trump who said a deal could be reached soon.

Brent futures rose $4, or 4%, to $103.94 a barrel at 0400 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) climbed $3.49, or 4%, to $91.62.

Crude futures dropped more than 10% on Monday, after Trump ordered a five-day delay to attacks on Iran's power plants, saying the U.S. had talks with unnamed Iranian officials that produced "major points of agreement".

"By shelving the plan to strike Iranian power plants for five days, the U.S. effectively sucked ⁠much of the 'war premium' from the oil price," said KCM Trade chief market analyst Tim Waterer.

"Today's moderate bounce is just the market finding its footing in the mud. Traders are aware that while the missiles are on hold, the Strait of Hormuz is still far from a clear waterway."

The war has all but halted shipments of about one-fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas through the Strait of Hormuz. However, two tankers bound for India sailed through the strait on Monday.

Tehran rejected the claim of contact with Washington, dismissing it as an attempt to manipulate financial markets, while Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they had attacked U.S. targets and denounced Trump's comments as "worn-out psychological operations".

"Even with a possible decrease in tensions after (Monday's) announcement from President Trump, we expect a price floor ⁠of $85–$90 and a natural drift back to the $110 range until the Strait of Hormuz is restored," Macquarie said in a client note.

If the strait remains effectively shut until the end of April, Brent could still reach $150 a barrel, Macquarie said.

In the latest attacks on energy infrastructure across the region, a gas company office and a pressure-reduction station were hit in the Iranian city of Isfahan, while a projectile struck a gas ⁠pipeline feeding a power station in Khorramshahr, Iran's Fars news agency reported.

To ease supply shortage, the U.S. temporarily waived sanctions on Russian and Iranian oil already at sea. Industry sources said traders have since offered Iranian crude to Indian refiners at a premium to ICE Brent.

The International Energy Agency ⁠Executive Director Fatih Birol on Monday said the agency is consulting Asian and European governments on possible further releases of strategic reserves "if necessary".

Still, markets are bracing for market disruption at least until April, which continue to be a tailwind beneath Brent while maintaining ⁠momentum for inflation, said Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at brokerage Phillip Nova.

Oil executives and energy ministers at a conference in Houston flagged the longer-term impact of the U.S.–Israel war with Iran on the global economy. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright downplayed the crisis.

(REUTERS)   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-surges-past-103-following-Iranian-denial-of-US-secret-negotiations

Japan Unlocks Strategic Oil Reserves To Stabilize Domestic Supply

2026-03-24 Shafaq News- Tokyo   Japan is tapping its strategic oil reserves to stabilize fuel supplies amid rising global prices, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed on Tuesday.

In a post on X, Takaichi explained the move ensures the country has sufficient petroleum products to meet nationwide demand. Last week, Tokyo began drawing oil equivalent to about 15 days of private-sector reserves.

Japan depends on the Middle East for roughly 95% of its oil imports, leaving the nation highly exposed to supply disruptions. Its strategic reserves, among the largest globally, exceeded 400 million barrels as of December.

International Energy Agency (IEA) member countries agreed on March 11 to release a record 400 million barrels of oil from strategic reserves to offset the surge in global crude prices following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump threatened broad strikes on Iranian energy sites within 48 hours if Tehran does not fully reopen the Strait. The ultimatum was later postponed by five days, citing advanced talks with Iran. Tehran, however, rejected Trump’s claims of negotiations, warning it could fully close the maritime gateway and target regional energy infrastructure if its power facilities are attacked.https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Japan-unlocks-strategic-oil-reserves-to-stabilize-domestic-supply

Iran Halts Gas Exports To Turkiye

2026-03-24 Shafaq News- Ankara   Iran has stopped natural gas exports to Turkiye following an Israeli strike on the giant South Pars gas field last week, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing sources described as familiar with the matter.

On March 18, Israel struck South Pars in Iran, the world’s largest natural gas field. Tehran retaliated with attacks on energy assets linked to US companies in the Ras Laffan complex in Qatar, which produces about a fifth of global liquefied natural gas.

Ankara is still importing gas from Russia and Azerbaijan, its main suppliers, and can use gas held in storage, the sources said, while the Turkish Energy Ministry declined to comment. It’s unclear how long the halt in Iranian supplies will last or if it will force Turkiye to seek additional sources of liquefied natural gas. European benchmark gas futures pared losses following the news.

According to the latest annual data from the energy regulator in Ankara, Turkiye sourced about 13% of its total natural gas imports, about 7 billion cubic meters, from Iran in 2024.https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iran-halts-gas-exports-to-Turkiye

Dollar Trades Near 154,000 As Iraq Markets Reopen

2026-03-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   The US dollar opened Tuesday’s trading mixed in Iraq, hovering around 154,000 dinars per 100 dollars, as markets resumed following the Eid Al-Fitr holiday.

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, up from 150,000 dinars recorded before the holiday closure.

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 154,300 dinars and buying prices at 154,200 dinars.https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-trades-near-154-000-as-Iraq-markets-reopen

Gold Prices Fall In Baghdad And Erbil Markets

2026-03-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   On Tuesday, gold prices hovered around at 960,000 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 at 962,000 IQD per mithqal (equivalent to five grams) for 21-carat gold, including Gulf, Turkish, and European varieties, with a buying price of at 958,000 IQD.

The selling price for 21-carat Iraqi gold stood at 932,000 IQD, with a buying price of 928,000 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 1,023,000 IQD per mithqal, 21-carat gold at 977,000 IQD, and 18-carat gold at 834,000 IQD.   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-prices-fall-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil-markets-7-1

Iraq’s Food Imports From US Exceed $140 Million In 2025

2026-03-24 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq’s imports of American food and agricultural products showed a significant increase, surpassing $140 million in 2025, according to official data from the US Department of Agriculture, released on Tuesday.

Soybeans dominated the imports, with Iraq receiving 279,231 metric tons valued at $125.09 million. This represents a sharp rise compared with the ten-year average of $24.82M. Other US food products, including spices and sauces, were imported in quantities totaling 6,566 tons, valued at $16.27M.

The US Department of Agriculture noted that the continued flow of these products into Iraqi markets highlights the expanding trade relationship between Baghdad and Washington, strengthening mutual reliance in securing essential food supplies.  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-s-food-imports-from-US-exceed-140-million-in-2025

Al-Hilali: Iraq Cannot Guarantee America's Support In Negotiations With Iran... And These Are The Repercussions Of The Occupation Of Al-Kharj.

Time: 2026/03/24      {Politics: Al-Furat News} Political analyst Ayed Al-Hilali confirmed that Iraq cannot guarantee the United States in the negotiations with Iran, noting that the repercussions of the escalation, especially regarding Kharg Island, may lead to dangerous shifts in the course of the conflict in the region.

The most concise and informative news can be found on the Al-Furat News Telegram channel. To subscribe, click here.

Al-Hilali said, during his appearance on the “Free Talk” program on Al-Furat satellite channel, that: “The Iranian side announced that it is not interested in negotiating with the United States, considering that it did not start the war, and therefore the course of the battle is not determined by its will alone,” noting that there is “a clear deficit in the oil file at the level of the region.”

He added that “the statements made by US President Donald Trump do not concern the Iranian side, and that the five-day deadline falls under strategic deception,” explaining that “the Greater Middle East project does not exclude any country, but it will not be achieved because of the inability of the Zionist entity to impose hegemony.”

Al-Hilali explained that "the pressure on China regarding the oil file is intended to pass American and Israeli agendas," noting that "part of this project was thwarted through the Popular Mobilization Forces, while Iran is working to thwart the other part through war."

He added that "there is a major division within the American establishment, and that Trump is now listening to Israel in his decisions," stressing that "targeting a primary school in Iran has deprived him of the legitimacy and morality of the war, which has put him in a restricted position."

Al-Hilali explained that “any landing operation on Kharg Island may necessitate direct Chinese intervention due to its connection to energy lines, and may lead to significant losses exceeding what happened in Vietnam,” noting that “Iraq cannot guarantee the United States in negotiations, but it is capable of playing an important role in reducing escalation in the region.”

Wafaa Al-Fatlawi     LINK

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Morning 3-24-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Global Reset Series – Part 7

What the Next Global Financial System Could Look Like

The global monetary system is evolving gradually as technology, geopolitics, and economic forces reshape financial infrastructure.

Overview

Most economists do not expect a sudden replacement of the global financial system.

Instead, the world appears to be moving toward a more diversified and technologically advanced monetary framework.

Key Developments

1. Several trends are shaping this transition:

• central bank digital currencies

• modernized payment systems

• diversified reserve assets including gold

Institutions such as the Bank for International Settlements are studying how these developments could reshape global finance.

2. A multipolar monetary environment may emerge

Rather than a single dominant financial center, the future system may include multiple financial hubs and currencies.

The United States Dollar is expected to remain a major global reserve currency, but other currencies may play larger roles in regional trade.

3. Technology will play a major role

Digital payment systems and real-time settlement infrastructure could significantly accelerate global financial transactions.

Why It Matters

Financial infrastructure determines how money flows through the global economy.

Technological innovation and evolving economic power structures are gradually reshaping that infrastructure.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Understanding these developments helps investors and observers see how the global monetary system may evolve over time.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1 — Digital Finance

Technology will increasingly shape financial systems.

• Pillar 2 — Monetary Multipolarity

The future financial system may include multiple centers of economic influence.

Seeds of Wisdom Team View

The next global financial system is not being built in a single moment.

It is emerging gradually through technological innovation, policy changes, and evolving economic power around the world.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Bank for International Settlements – Future Monetary System Research

• International Monetary Fund – Global Financial Outlook

~~~~~~~~~~

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 3-24-26

Trade: Procedures to release 50,000 containers piled up at border crossings

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad   The Ministry of Commerce is working with relevant authorities to find a mechanism to bring more than 50,000 containers of stockpiled goods into the country, while emphasizing the continuity of land supply chains.

The Director General of the Private Sector Development Department at the Ministry, Dr. Malek Al-Duraie, stated in an interview with the official newspaper, which was followed by “Al-Eqtisad News”, that the government has succeeded in controlling the border crossings after imposing the customs tariff and implementing the ASYCUDA system, which enhances its economic security in all aspects, and within the government plans prepared to reform the country’s financial and commercial system.

He pointed out that there are goods that have not yet entered the country, after the imposition of the new tariff, and they are still piled up at the land ports in the process of being taken out as part of the port procedures, stressing that their number exceeded 50,000 containers containing various types of goods.

Al-Duraiei explained that the merchants appealed during a meeting they held with the ministry two days ago, in order for the necessary measures to be taken to allow their goods that are in the border crossings to enter, because their accumulation there is causing them huge financial losses, in addition to the fact that their entry into the markets will compensate for the disruption of trade through the sea ports as a result of the security conditions that the region is currently experiencing.

He continued, saying that the ministry is discussing with representatives of chambers of commerce and relevant authorities the preparation of recommendations in this area and submitting them to the Prime Minister’s office to obtain approval for their inclusion under a mechanism that guarantees the state’s rights and preserves the new system.

In the same context, the Director General of the Department of Private Sector Development stated that the entry of new goods into local markets, in conjunction with the continuation of supply and trade chains through land ports and their uninterrupted operation, will enhance efforts to prevent any crisis or shortage in securing basic materials for citizens, by facilitating their entry in an official and legal manner and within the government procedures prepared in this regard to confront the crisis.https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=67077

Oil Prices Rise To $104 A Barrel

Today,   Oil prices rose in early trading on Tuesday, driven by supply concerns after Iran denied holding talks with the United States to end the trade war.  Brent crude futures climbed $1.06, or 1.1%, to $104 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude rose $1.58, or 1.8%, to $89.71.    Crude contracts had plunged more than 10% on Monday after Trump said he had ordered a five-day delay in the attacks he had threatened to launch against Iranian power plants.

https://ina.iq/en/economy/47025-oil-prices-rise-to-104-a-barrel.html

Iran Suspends Trade At Shalamcheh Border Crossing With Iraq After Rocket Attack

2026-03-24 Shafaq News- Basra   Iran has temporarily halted commercial traffic at the Shalamcheh border crossing with southern Iraq following rocket fire near the trade yard.

Sources told Shafaq News on Tuesday that the suspension was taken as a precaution after strikes landed close to the commercial exchange area on the Iranian side of the crossing, adding that trade movement is expected to resume once authorities complete an assessment of the security situation.  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iran-suspends-trade-at-Shalamcheh-border-crossing-with-Iraq-after-rocket-attack

The Electricity System Has Stabilized And Gas Supplies Have Increased To 18 Million Cubic Meters Per Day.

Time: 2026/03/24     {Local: Al-Furat News} The spokesman for the Ministry of Electricity, Ahmed Al-Abadi, announced today, Tuesday, that the ministry continues to hold a permanent operations room, with intensive government follow-ups, and direct supervision by the Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs, Minister of Oil and Acting Minister of Electricity, Hayyan Abdul Ghani Al-Sawad, and is monitoring the current conditions in the region and is keen to follow up on production stations, power transmission lines and distribution networks, and is responsible for securing fuel, its components and gas in order to maintain the momentum of the work of power generation stations to keep up with the required loads.

Al-Abadi explained in a statement received by Al-Furat News that “the national electricity system is recording good stability in terms of its achieved production, the sustainability of its work, its lines, stations, operating hours and supply,” expressing that “the ministry is still coordinating at a high level with the Ministry of Oil to benefit from national gas and fuel and secure it for electricity stations.” 

He explained that "the system is operating smoothly after completing a large part of the rehabilitation and maintenance programs for the generating units, to keep pace with its readiness for the upcoming summer loads, noting that the releases of imported gas have begun to gradually increase, as gas was released to the central and southern regions, and its releases have increased again from (5 million to 18 million cubic meters per day), and thus gas has been made available to the stations that were affected in the past few days." 

He concluded that "the ministry is aware of the magnitude of its responsibilities and service obligations towards citizens, and is proceeding with the completion of its preparedness plan for next summer, and is continuing to implement its projects and contracts with international companies to develop the capabilities of the system." LINK

CBI: Social Media Influencers Are Financial Crime Threat

Shafaq News – Baghdad (Updated at 16:35)   The Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) instructed all banks and financial institutions to classify social media celebrities and influencers as “high-risk and multi-risk clients.”

According to documents, the CBI said this group now poses new risks to the financial sector, particularly in cases involving money laundering, terrorism financing, illicit funding, fictitious contracts, and unexplained transfers.

The Central Bank’s media team member, Alaa Fahd, said in a post on Facebook that social-media celebrities and influencers have become “a source of new threats” to the financial sector. He added that the measure is a necessary step to protect the financial system from chaos and misuse, noting that some influencers have recently been involved in facilitating suspicious contracts, documents, and transfers used in unlawful activities.

Fahad further pointed out that the new instructions do not amount to restrictions but serve as “a shield to protect the national economy, strengthen confidence in the banking sector, and close the door to any attempt to infiltrate one of the country’s most sensitive sectors.”

Iraq has seen rapid growth in social media use, with the Digital Media Center reporting 34.3 million users in 2024—nearly 74% of the population. TikTok recorded the fastest expansion, while platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and LinkedIn also grew.

Earlier this year, Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission (CMC) required social-media influencers to pay annual licensing fees based on the size of their audience.

Under the new policy, creators with more than 5 million followers will pay 1 million IQD (about $703) per year, while those with 3 to 5 million followers will be charged 850,000 IQD (about $598).

Accounts with 1 to 3 million followers must pay 650,000 IQD (about $457), those with 500,000 to 1 million followers owe 450,000 IQD (about $316), and creators with 100,000 to 500,000 followers will pay 350,000 IQD (about $246).

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/CBI-Social-media-influencers-are-financial-crime-threat

“Tidbits From TNT” Tuesday Morning 3-24-2026

TNT:

Tishwash:  First Iraqi oil tanker to cross the Strait of Hormuz since the outbreak of war

A giant oil tanker carrying two million barrels of Iraqi crude successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, according to Bloomberg.

According to ship-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg, the tanker Omega Trader, operated by Japan's Mitsui O.S.K. Lead, arrived in Mumbai, India, in the past few days. The tanker's last known signal before reaching India was from the Arabian Gulf more than ten days ago.

The passage of this tanker represents the first observed movement of Baghdad's oil barrels through the vital waterway since the outbreak of the war, which has entered its fourth week.

Reports indicate that most of the ships that finally made it through unloaded their cargo in India, whose government contacted Iranian officials to ensure a safe passage for energy ships bound for it. The Iranian navy even escorted one of the liquefied gas ships through the strait.  link

Tishwash:  An economist told Al-Mirbad: There are no financial problems in March and April, but they are likely to begin in May, depending on events.

Economic expert Safwan Qusay suggested that the country’s financial problems may begin during the month of May, noting that if the Ministry of Finance is unable to meet the item of employee compensation or public operational spending, the Central Bank can support the financial policy of the Ministry of Finance with internal loans, and there may be flexibility for the Central Bank of around $30 billion.

Qusay told Al-Mirbad that there are no concerns about funding the items currently due during March and April, but the financial solution may be available in May and beyond.

He added that Iraq sells oil using futures contracts, meaning that the oil sold during January is paid for in March and the oil sold during February is paid for in April, noting that there are no financial problems in the current month of March or the next month of April.  link

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Tishwash:  Sudanese: Dissolving the factions will be easier after next September, after the end of the international coalition's mission.

 Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed on Monday that the issue of disbanding Iraqi armed factions will become easier after September 2026, with the end of the international coalition's mission and the withdrawal of foreign forces from Iraq.

In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, he pointed out that the factions view these foreign forces as an “occupation.”

Al-Sudani added that Iraqi security forces have successfully thwarted numerous attacks, alongside political efforts to curb the activities of these factions, and expressed his hope for the return of American military trainers.  link

Tishwash:  Iraq increases its holdings of US Treasury bonds to $42 billion

Official data released by the US Treasury Department within the "Treasury International Capital (TIC)" system on Monday showed that Iraq's total holdings of US bonds amounted to about $42 billion at the end of December 2025, after being $41.1 billion in November, registering a monthly increase of about $0.9 billion.

Shafaq News Agency followed up on those data which showed that Iraq’s holdings of long-term bonds amounted to $40.8 billion, while short-term bonds reached about $1.2 billion, bringing the total to $42 billion.

The monthly table for 2025 showed a continued gradual increase in holdings of long-term bonds, compared to relative stability in short-term bonds, as the year began with a total of about $39.85 billion in January, before gradually rising to $42 billion in December.

Compared to last year, when Iraq’s total holdings of US bonds amounted to about $23.4 billion in December 2024, this shows an annual increase of nearly 79% in one year, driven by a focus on long-term bonds.  link

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Mot:  Not Funny - K!!! 

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Monday Evening 3-23-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

Currency Shift in Motion: Chinese Yuan Expands Across Africa as Dollar Dominance Faces Pressure

Rising trade, lower costs, and strategic policy moves accelerate global currency diversification

Overview (Key Points)

China is rapidly expanding the use of the Chinese yuan across Africa, signaling a growing shift in global trade and currency dynamics.

While the U.S. dollar still dominates roughly 60% of Africa’s financial system, rising transaction costs and financial risks are pushing countries to explore alternatives.

Through currency swaps, trade incentives, and zero-tariff policies, China is positioning the yuan as a viable settlement currency across the continent.

This development highlights a broader trend: the gradual evolution toward a more multipolar global financial system.

Key Developments

1. Rising Costs of Dollar-Based Trade Drive Change

African nations are increasingly burdened by:

• High transaction and conversion fees (estimated at $5 billion annually)

• Dependence on external financial systems

• Exposure to U.S. monetary policy and inflation dynamics

These pressures are accelerating the search for more cost-efficient alternatives.

2. China Expands Yuan-Based Currency Swaps

China has introduced currency swap agreements allowing African nations to:

• Settle trade directly in yuan

• Reduce reliance on the dollar

• Improve liquidity in bilateral trade

This move strengthens financial ties and currency accessibility.

3. Trade Between China and Africa Surges

Africa has become China’s fastest-growing export market, with trade increasing by over 27% in 2025.

This growth is being reinforced by:

• Zero-tariff policies tied to yuan usage

• Expanded infrastructure and logistics cooperation

• Increased demand for Chinese goods

The result is a natural expansion of yuan usage alongside trade flows.

4. Strategic Push Amid Global Trade Tensions

China is leveraging:

• Global tariff disputes

• Supply chain shifts

• Emerging market partnerships

to promote the yuan as an alternative to dollar-based trade systems.

Notably, China is currently the most aggressive BRICS member advancing local currency usage globally.

5. Africa Moves Toward Currency Diversification

African nations are increasingly seeking to:

• Reduce dependency on a single reserve currency

• Mitigate risks tied to debt and inflation

• Build more resilient financial systems

This reflects a broader global trend toward currency diversification and financial independence.

Why It Matters

The U.S. dollar has long served as the backbone of global trade and finance.

However, rising costs and geopolitical shifts are encouraging alternatives that:

• Lower transaction expenses

• Increase financial sovereignty

• Reduce systemic risk exposure

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Expanding yuan usage could:

• Shift global reserve allocations

• Impact currency exchange dynamics

• Influence long-term valuation trends

As trade settlement diversifies, currency power may gradually rebalance.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Gradual Erosion of Dollar Exclusivity

The expansion of yuan-based trade signals a slow but meaningful shift away from single-currency dominance.

• Pillar 2: Rise of Regional Financial Ecosystems

Currency swaps and bilateral trade agreements are building:

• Parallel financial systems

• Regional trade networks

• Alternative payment infrastructures

Conclusion

China’s push to expand the yuan across Africa represents a strategic and structural shift in global finance.

While the dollar remains dominant, the rise of alternative settlement systems signals an evolving landscape.

This is not an overnight transformation—but a gradual rebalancing that could reshape global trade and currency dynamics over time.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Watcher.Guru — "BRICS: Chinese Yuan winning over Africa"

• Reuters — "China expands yuan use in Africa trade and finance"

~~~~~~~~~~

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Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Monday Afternoon 3-23-26

The Coordinating Body Will Meet Tomorrow, Tuesday, To Decide On A Replacement For Maliki

 latest news  Monday, March 23, 2026   Baghdad – One News    3/23/2026

 Saudi Arabia’s Al-Sharq TV reported that the Coordination Framework will hold a meeting on Tuesday to discuss nominating a replacement for former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.

 The channel added that disagreements within the framework led to the postponement of deciding on the mechanism for choosing a replacement, in light of differing positions among the leaders.

She indicated that some leaders informed Maliki of the need to withdraw from the prime ministership race, but he refused and stipulated that a vote be held within the framework to withdraw his candidacy.

 According to the sources, a proposal was put forward to conduct a secret paper vote to choose the alternative, with three options on the table including Maliki, the current Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, and a possible third candidate.

 She also explained that the coordinating framework has several options: either keeping al-Maliki, nominating al-Sudani, or choosing a new name, amid a clear division among its components.

 The channel confirmed that Tuesday’s meeting could be crucial in determining the course of the prime ministerial nomination, given the escalating controversy surrounding the decision-making mechanism within the framework.

https://1news-iq.net/الإطار-التنسيقي-يجتمع-يوم-غد-الثلاثاء/

IEA Prepared To Unseal Strategic Oil Reserves

2026-03-23 Shafaq News- Paris   The International Energy Agency (IEA) is weighing a release of emergency oil stocks as tensions linked to the Strait of Hormuz closure strain global supply, IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol indicated on Monday, describing the situation as the most severe since the energy crises of the 1970s.

Speaking at the National Press Club, Birol noted ongoing assessments of supply conditions and coordination with member states. “If necessary, we will of course do so. We are looking at the conditions,” he added, stressing that no fixed crude price would trigger another coordinated release.

“The most important and only solution to this problem is to open the Strait of Hormuz,” he remarked.

IEA member countries agreed on March 11 to release a record 400 million barrels of oil from strategic reserves to counter the sharp rise in global crude prices.

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump pledged to launch broad strikes on Iranian energy sites within 48 hours if Tehran does not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Iran threatened to fully close the maritime gateway and target regional energy infrastructure if its power facilities face attacks.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/IEA-prepared-to-unseal-strategic-oil-reserves

Oil Prices Oscillate With Trump’s 48-Hour Ultimatum To Iran

2026-03-23 Shafaq News   Oil prices swung between gains and losses on Monday as investors weighed rising U.S. and Iranian threats over energy facilities against the release of millions of barrels of seaborne Iranian oil after Washington temporarily removed sanctions.

Brent crude futures rose 65 cents to $112.84 a barrel by 0446 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate was at $98.75 a barrel, up 84 cents. Both contracts were down more than $1 earlier in the session.

The spread of more than $13 a barrel between Brent and WTI is the widest in years.

"Oil sentiment may lurch on threats and rhetoric in the near term, but ⁠its more durable direction will continue to be shaped by the state of Middle East oil flows," said Vandana Hari, founder of oil market analysis provider Vanda Insights.

On Saturday, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to "obliterate" Iran's power plants if it did not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, barely a day after he talked about "winding down" the war, now in its fourth week.

Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf wrote on X that critical infrastructure and energy facilities in the Middle East could be "irreversibly destroyed" if Iranian power plants were attacked.

"It clearly means more escalation, which means higher oil prices. Some are incorrectly thinking, however, that Iran may cave," said Amrita Sen, founder of Energy Aspects.

"Trump is trying to show he can out-escalate and that way ends in scorched earth for Gulf infrastructure."

The crisis in the Middle East ⁠is "very severe" and worse than the two oil shocks of the 1970s put together, Fatih Birol, the executive director of the International Energy Agency, said on Monday.

The war has damaged major energy facilities in the Gulf and nearly halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which handles about 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas flows.

Analysts estimated a loss of 7 million to 10 million barrels per day of oil production in the Middle East.

Iraq ⁠has declared force majeure on all oilfields developed by foreign oil companies, three energy officials said.

Crude production at Basra Oil Company has been cut to 900,000 bpd from 3.3 million bpd, Iraqi Oil Minister Hayan Abdel-Ghani said in a statement issued by his ministry.

Indian refiners plan to resume buying Iranian oil while refiners elsewhere ⁠in Asia are examining such a move, traders have said.

"Drawing not only on the subtext of Trump’s remarks but also on a distillation of his barrage of often opaque, at times contradictory, statements, we detect a desire to bring hostilities to an end, alongside a ⁠growing focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz," Hari said.

However, it is unclear that threats to strike Tehran’s energy infrastructure "will prove effective so long as Iran retains the capacity to launch retaliatory, like-for-like attacks on neighbouring states," Hari added.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-prices-oscillate-with-Trump-s-48-hour-ultimatum-to-Iran

Oil Prices Retreat $17 Following Trump’s Five-Day Truce

2026-03-23 Shafaq News   Oil prices plunged by more than 13% on Monday after U.S. President Donald Trump said he would postpone any military strikes against Iranian power plants for five days, hours ahead of a deadline that threatened further escalation in the conflict now in its fourth week.

Brent crude futures traded at about $104.1 a ⁠barrel, or down 7.2%, at 1130 GMT after sliding as much as 15% to a session low of $96 a barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate was down 7.8% at $90.55 after losing 13.5% to a session low of $85.28.

The U.S. president had warned that Iranian power plants would be destroyed if Tehran failed to "fully open" the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping within 48 hours, setting a deadline of around 7:44 ⁠p.m. EDT (2344 GMT) on Monday.

His comments sparked threats of retaliation from Iran's Revolutionary Guards, which said they would attack Israel's power plants and those supplying U.S. bases across the Gulf region if Trump followed through with his ⁠threat to "obliterate" Iran's power network.

The war has damaged major energy facilities in the Gulf and nearly halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which ⁠handles about 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas flows. Analysts estimated a loss of 7 million to 10 million barrels ⁠per day of oil production in the Middle East.

(REUTERS)   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-prices-retreat-17-following-Trump-s-five-day-truce

Iraqi Oil Tanker Clears Hormuz In First Transit Since Conflict

2026-03-23 Shafaq News- Baghdad   A supertanker carrying two million barrels of Iraqi crude has successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz, marking the first confirmed shipment from Iraq via the waterway since the outbreak of the regional conflict.

Shipping data compiled by Bloomberg showed the tanker Omega Trader, operated by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, has arrived in Mumbai in recent days.

The vessel’s tracking signal had last been recorded inside the Gulf more than ten days earlier, reflecting disruptions to maritime traffic during the escalation.

The transit underscores tentative movement in oil flows through Hormuz after weeks of disruption, with several vessels recently completing deliveries, primarily to India. Reports indicate New Delhi engaged with Iranian officials to secure safe passage for energy shipments, with Iran’s navy escorting at least one liquefied gas carrier through the strait.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraqi-oil-tanker-clears-Hormuz-in-first-transit-since-conflict

Massive Wealth Transfer Incoming as Inflation Illusion Shatters

Massive Wealth Transfer Incoming as Inflation Illusion Shatters

Taylor Kenny:  3-22-2026

The current economic landscape is marked by a subtle yet significant phenomenon: a wealth transfer from the general public to the top echelons of society, particularly the top 0.1%.

This process, facilitated by inflation, operates much like a stealthy form of taxation, eroding the purchasing power of the average citizen without the immediate backlash associated with overt tax increases.

In a recent YouTube video, insights from Murray Rothbard’s seminal 1960s writings were brought to the forefront, shedding light on how government-induced inflation acts as a mechanism for wealth redistribution, favoring those at the pinnacle of economic and political power.

Murray Rothbard, a notable economist, astutely observed that inflation is not merely a byproduct of economic activity but a deliberate action taken by governments to expand the money supply.

By essentially “counterfeiting” money, governments devalue currency, reducing its purchasing power. This action doesn’t just diminish the value of money; it transfers wealth from those who hold currency to those who receive the newly created money first, typically governments and financial elites.

This process is particularly insidious because it doesn’t require legislative approval or direct action that could provoke public outcry, as is often the case with tax hikes.

The impact of this covert taxation is not felt evenly across society. Savers, individuals on fixed incomes, and the middle and lower classes bear the brunt of inflation’s effects.

Their purchasing power diminishes as prices rise, often without a corresponding increase in their income. Conversely, those closest to the source of the new money—governments and financial institutions—benefit at the expense of the broader population.

The current financial landscape, characterized by liquidity crises, Federal Reserve bailouts, and private credit freezes, exacerbates the wealth transfer cycle.

As governments and central banks implement policies aimed at stabilizing the financial system, they inadvertently accelerate the concentration of wealth among the elite. The  liquidity and the lowering of interest rates may prop up financial markets in the short term, but they also fuel asset price inflation, further enriching those who hold significant assets while leaving the average citizen to grapple with rising costs of living.

In the face of this ongoing wealth transfer, there’s a growing recognition of the importance of safeguarding wealth through assets that are less susceptible to the manipulations of monetary policy.

Gold, often regarded as “real money,” has historically served as a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation. Unlike fiat currencies, which can be printed in limitless quantities, gold’s supply is relatively fixed, making it a more stable store of value.

 By holding gold, individuals can protect their wealth from the erosive effects of inflation and challenge the government’s control over the monetary system.

The accelerating economic shifts underscore the urgency of taking proactive steps to secure one’s financial future.

 Rather than passively observing the unfolding economic drama, individuals can take action to build resilience and create generational opportunity.

Diversifying investments, including allocating a portion to gold and other real assets, can provide a buffer against the adverse effects of inflation and monetary policy manipulations.

The insights from Murray Rothbard’s work, as highlighted in the ITM Trading video with Taylor Kenney, serve as a timely reminder of the need for vigilance and action in the face of economic change. By understanding the mechanisms driving the wealth transfer and taking informed steps to protect and grow one’s wealth, individuals can navigate the challenges of the current economic environment and build a more secure financial future.

For those interested in delving deeper into this critical analysis and exploring strategies for safeguarding wealth, watching the full video from ITM Trading with Taylor Kenney is a valuable next step. As the economic landscape continues to evolve, staying informed and proactive is key to thriving in a world marked by significant financial shifts.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UR50O9I16k

The IQD vs. GLE, How Countries Increase Value in their Currencies

The IQD vs. GLE, How Countries Increase Value in their Currencies

Edu Matrix:   3-22-2026

In a thought-provoking video on the Edu Matrix YouTube channel, Sandy Ingram draws a fascinating comparison between the economic and currency situations of Iraq and Georgia.

Georgia, a country that declared its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Sandy sheds light on the nation’s remarkable economic progress and contrasts it with the challenges faced by Iraq.

Georgia, a country with a relatively young history, has made tremendous strides in its economic development since joining the global economy in 1995.

With the support of institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, Georgia has achieved significant milestones. Despite initial difficulties in tax collection, the country has managed to post positive GDP growth, curb inflation, and attract substantial international investment, particularly in the real estate and tourism sectors.

The Georgian currency, the Lari (GEL), has remained stable on the forex market, and the cost of living in the country remains affordable. This has made Georgia an attractive destination for retirees and tourists alike. The country’s tourism industry is thriving, with visitors drawn to its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

In stark contrast, Iraq continues to grapple with the challenges of economic modernization and public trust in its financial institutions.

The Central Bank of Iraq is attempting to introduce a new digital Iraqi dinar (IQD), but many Iraqis remain hesitant to deposit their money in banks due to a lack of confidence in the system. This lack of trust is a significant obstacle to the country’s economic development, and it is compounded by ongoing security issues.

Despite its rich historical and religious significance as the birthplace of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and its ancient landmarks like Babylon and the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, Iraq’s economy remains stagnant.

Sandy Ingram questions whether Iraq can attract global tourists and investors given its current security challenges and lack of modernization.

The comparison between Georgia and Iraq implicitly highlights the crucial role that political stability, economic reforms, and openness to global markets play in determining a country’s currency strength and overall economic health. Georgia’s willingness to adopt economic reforms and engage with the global economy has been instrumental in its success.

In contrast, Iraq’s ongoing struggles with security and modernization have hindered its economic progress. The video suggests that a country’s economic fate is closely tied to its ability to create a stable and attractive business environment.

The video also touches on the cultural and generational divide in Georgia, where older generations retain a strong Russian influence, while younger citizens are embracing a distinct Georgian identity that is aligned with global trends. This cultural shift is likely to have a positive impact on Georgia’s continued economic development, as the younger generation is more likely to be open to new ideas and global best practices.

The Edu Matrix video offers a fascinating comparison between the economic situations of Georgia and Iraq.

While Georgia has made significant strides in its economic development, Iraq continues to face significant challenges. The key takeaways from the video highlight the importance of political stability, economic reforms, and openness to global markets in determining a country’s economic health.

As we watch the full video from Edu Matrix on YouTube, we are left with a deeper understanding of the complex factors that shape a nation’s economic trajectory.

The contrast between Georgia’s rise and Iraq’s struggles serves as a reminder that economic development is a multifaceted and ongoing process that requires careful planning, reform, and a willingness to engage with the global economy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3lCoPv7REM

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Monday Afternoon 3-23-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

Treasury Pushes AI Integration: Financial Stability Enters the Algorithm Era

U.S. regulators pivot toward proactive AI adoption as a pillar of economic security and system resilience

Overview (Key Points)

    • The U.S. Treasury and FSOC launched the AI Innovation Series to accelerate responsible AI adoption across the financial system
   • Regulators are shifting from restriction to enablement, recognizing that failure to adopt AI is now a systemic risk   • AI is becoming embedded in core financial infrastructure, including fraud detection, credit allocation, and cybersecurity
   • Public-private collaboration will shape governance frameworks to ensure safe, scalable, and resilient deployment

Key Developments

1. Treasury Signals Major Regulatory Shift Toward AI Enablement

The Treasury Department is reframing its regulatory stance, moving away from a defensive posture toward one that actively encourages AI adoption. Officials emphasized that lagging in AI integration could weaken financial institutions, making them less competitive and more vulnerable to systemic risks.

This marks a philosophical shift in financial oversight, where innovation is now tied directly to national economic strength.

2. AI Declared a Core Component of Financial Stability

Leadership within FSOC made clear that AI is no longer optional infrastructure. From fraud prevention to risk modeling, 

AI is now seen as essential to maintaining efficiency, security, and resilience across financial markets.
Institutions that fail to modernize could introduce inefficiencies and vulnerabilities into the broader system.

3. Launch of Public-Private AI Innovation Series

The initiative will host four high-level roundtables, bringing together banks, fintech firms, regulators, and AI experts.

The goal is to identify high-impact use cases while ensuring governance frameworks evolve alongside deployment.

4. Focus on Operationalizing AI Across Financial Systems

Treasury leadership emphasized a shift from experimentation to full-scale operational integration.

The focus is on embedding AI into core workflows like credit underwriting, cybersecurity, and risk management, with measurable improvements in resilience and efficiency.

Why It Matters

This signals a structural transformation in how financial systems are governed. AI is becoming foundational infrastructure, not just a tool.

The U.S. is positioning itself to lead globally in AI-driven finance, potentially reshaping capital flows, risk models, and market behavior.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

    • Financial power is increasingly tied to technological leadership    • AI-driven productivity may influence currency strength and valuation    • Lagging nations risk weaker financial competitiveness and currency stability    • Accelerates shift toward digital and programmable monetary systems

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Structural Evolution of Financial Infrastructure

AI integration represents a deep modernization of global financial architecture, transforming how money, credit, and risk flow through the system.

• Pillar 2: Technological Competition as Monetary Power

Future dominance will be shaped by AI capability, giving leading nations greater influence over markets, capital flows, and global standards.

This is not just technological innovation — it’s the intelligence upgrade of the global financial system.

Seeds of Wisdom TeamNewshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• U.S. Department of the Treasury — Treasury Launches AI Innovation Series (March 23, 2026)

• Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) — Public-Private AI Initiative Announcement and Remarks

~~~~~~~~~~

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Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Monday Afternoon 3-23-26

Iraq increases holdings of US bonds to $42B in December

2026-03-23 Shafaq News- Washington   Iraq’s holdings of US Treasury bonds reached $42 billion by the end of December 2025, up from $41.1 billion in November, the US Treasury’s Treasury International Capital (TIC) system said on Monday.   The data showed that long-term holdings accounted for $40.8 billion, while short-term bonds totaled about $1.2 billion.

Monthly figures for 2025 indicated a steady rise in long-term bond holdings, while short-term holdings remained relatively stable. Total holdings increased from about $39.85 billion in January to $42 billion in December 2025.

In 2024, Iraq’s total holdings stood at around $23.4 billion, with an annual increase of nearly 79%, driven primarily by higher investment in long-term bonds.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-increases-holdings-of-US-bonds-to-42B-in-December

Precious Metals Tank In Global Liquidation Wave

2026-03-23 Shafaq News   Gold slid more than 5% on Monday, reaching its weakest level of 2026 after logging its worst week in about 43 years, as an escalating Middle East conflict stoked inflation concerns and raised expectations of higher global interest rates.

Spot gold fell 5.8% to $4,226.16 per ounce as of 0633 GMT, its lowest since December 11, and extended losses into a ninth straight session.

The metal dropped more than 10% last week, its worst week since February 1983, ⁠and has also retreated more than 20% from its record peak of $5,594.82 an ounce reached on January 29.

U.S. gold futures for April delivery fell 7.5% to $4,231.80.

"With the Iranian conflict into its fourth week, and oil prices hanging around the $100 level, expectations have pivoted from rate cuts to potential rate hikes, which have tarnished gold's appeal from a yield point of view," said Tim Waterer, chief market analyst, KCM Trade.

Iran said on Sunday it would strike the energy and water systems of its Gulf neighbours in retaliation if U.S. President Donald Trump follows through with his threat to hit Iran's electricity grid in 48 hours.

Asian shares fell, and oil prices stayed well above $110 a ⁠barrel.

"Gold's high liquidity appears to be hurting it during this risk-off period. Downturns in stock markets are leading to gold portions being closed to cover margin calls on other assets," Waterer said.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has kept crude elevated, stoking inflation fears by pushing up transport and manufacturing costs. While rising inflation typically boosts gold's appeal as ⁠a hedge, high rates curb demand for the non-yielding asset.

"A reinforced shift from safe-haven allocation towards macro-driven positioning could skew risks further to the downside, as a firmer U.S. dollar and the receding probability of the Fed easing dominate the narrative," ⁠said BMI, a unit of Fitch Solutions.

Market pricing for a U.S. Federal Reserve rate hike this year has shot up, with rate futures showing the U.S. central bank is more likely to raise interest rates than cut ⁠them by the end of 2026, according to CME's FedWatch tool.

Other precious metals also declined sharply, with spot silver declining 8.9% to $61.76 per ounce. Spot platinum slipped 9% to $1,749.31 and palladium shed 5.2% to $1,330.50.

(REUTERS)  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Precious-metals-tank-in-global-liquidation-wave

Dollar Trading Halts In Baghdad, Resumes In Erbil After Holiday

2026-03-23 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   Dollar trading halted in Baghdad on Monday as wholesale markets still closed for the Eid al-Fitr holiday, while trading resumed in Erbil of the Kurdistan Region.

Some exchange shops in Baghdad continued limited activity, with the selling price at 155,500 Iraqi dinars per 100 US dollars and the buying price at 154,500 dinars.

In Erbil, the US dollar declined slightly, trading at 154,400 dinars for selling and 154,300 dinars for buying per 100 dollars.

Baghdad’s currency markets are expected to reopen on Tuesday as the Eid holiday concludes across Iraq, with trading set to resume gradually.   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-trading-halts-in-Baghdad-resumes-in-Erbil-after-holiday

Gold Prices Fall In Baghdad And Erbil Markets

2026-03-23 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil   On Monday, gold prices declined in Baghdad and Erbil markets, with trading activity in the capital remaining limited due to the Eid holiday.

According to a survey by Shafaq News Agency, gold prices on Baghdad's Al-Nahr Street recorded a selling price of less than 1 million IQD per mithqal (equivalent to five grams) for 21-carat gold, including Gulf, Turkish, and European varieties.

In jewelry stores, the selling price per mithqal of 21-carat Gulf gold ranged between 875,000 and 885,000 IQD, while Iraqi gold sold for between 845,000 and 855,000 IQD.

In Erbil, prices also declined, with 22-carat gold selling at around 975,000 IQD per mithqal, 21-carat gold at 930,000 IQD, and 18-carat gold at 797,000 IQD.https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-prices-fall-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil-markets-1-0

Iraq, Five Arab States Hold 1K+ Tons Of Gold Reserves

2026-03-23 Shafaq News- Baghdad  Iraq and five Arab countries hold a combined over 1,000 tons of gold reserves, according to global data for March 2026, underscoring a steady build-up of bullion holdings in the region.

Saudi Arabia led Arab states with 323.1 tons, followed by Lebanon (286 tons), while Iraq ranked third with 174.6 tons, ahead of Algeria (173.6 tons) and Libya (146.7 tons).

Iraq’s gold holdings account for 24.6% of its total foreign reserves, according to the data.

Globally, the United States topped the list with 8,133 tons, followed by Germany (3,350 tons), Italy (2,451 tons), France (2,437 tons), and Russia (2,326 tons).

Data from the World Gold Council showed Iraq increased its reserves in 2025, purchasing 1 ton in March, 1.6 tons in June, 3.1 tons in July, 2.5 tons in August, and 3.8 tons in October.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-five-Arab-states-hold-1K-tons-of-gold-reserves

Iraq-Italy Trade Surpasses $2.7B

2026-03-23 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq’s trade with Italy topped $2.7 billion in 2025, largely fueled by crude oil exports, the international trade platform OEC reported on Monday.

According to the data shared, roughly $2.6 billion of that total came from crude oil shipments. Non-oil exports added about $112 million, covering agricultural products, raw materials, and selected manufactured goods.

Imports from Italy reached around €192 million ($207 million), consisting of industrial equipment, machinery, and business services exchanged between Iraqi and Italian companies.https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-Italy-trade-surpasses-2-7B

IEA Prepared To Unseal Strategic Oil Reserves

2026-03-23 Shafaq News- Paris   The International Energy Agency (IEA) is weighing a release of emergency oil stocks as tensions linked to the Strait of Hormuz closure strain global supply, IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol indicated on Monday, describing the situation as the most severe since the energy crises of the 1970s.

Speaking at the National Press Club, Birol noted ongoing assessments of supply conditions and coordination with member states. “If necessary, we will of course do so. We are looking at the conditions,” he added, stressing that no fixed crude price would trigger another coordinated release.

“The most important and only solution to this problem is to open the Strait of Hormuz,” he remarked.

IEA member countries agreed on March 11 to release a record 400 million barrels of oil from strategic reserves to counter the sharp rise in global crude prices.

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump pledged to launch broad strikes on Iranian energy sites within 48 hours if Tehran does not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Iran threatened to fully close the maritime gateway and target regional energy infrastructure if its power facilities face attacks.https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/IEA-prepared-to-unseal-strategic-oil-reserves

Iraq’s 20% Telecom Tax Sparks Debate Over Economic Burden On Citizens

2026-03-23 Shafaq News- Baghdad   The decision by Iraq’s caretaker government, led by Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, to reimpose a 20% tax on internet services and mobile recharge cards has sparked debate over the country’s fiscal policy and its direct impact on citizens.

The measure, which took effect on March 10, 2026, reinstates a tax previously abolished in 2022. However, it is now applied differently, with the levy added directly to the price paid by users rather than being imposed on telecom companies, as was the case under former Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi (2014–2018).

In 2016, Haidar Al-Abadi’s government defended salary deductions of 3.8% and telecom taxes as necessary during the costly war against ISIS and a sharp decline in oil prices. At the time, Iraq’s domestic debt stood at 63 trillion dinars ($52–53B in 2016 terms).

Recent economic data indicate that domestic debt rose to 91 trillion dinars in 2025–2026 (USD69 - 70 B), prompting the government to seek additional liquidity and focus on increasing non-oil revenues.

Economic experts interviewed by Shafaq News say the key difference between the two periods lies in how the tax is applied. Previously, companies could absorb part of the cost or adjust pricing structures. Now, the tax is passed directly to consumers, with an immediate effect on service prices.

Nawar Al-Saadi, a professor of international economics, described the shift as a “dangerous transformation” in tax policy. “In 2015, the tax targeted telecom companies as the legally responsible entities, allowing them some flexibility in managing the cost,” he told Shafaq News, adding that today, the burden has moved entirely to the consumer, meaning the impact is immediately reflected in the price of recharge cards or internet subscriptions.

He noted that this approach eliminates room for competition among providers to absorb costs, explaining, “Users now pay the full 20% when purchasing mobile credit or renewing fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) subscriptions.”

Saadi stressed that telecommunications and internet services have become essential to economic activity, education, and work, making any increase in their cost significant for a broad segment of the population.

Economic researcher Ahmed Eid said the decision reflects a government push to boost non-oil revenues but raises concerns about how the tax burden is distributed.

Speaking to Shafaq News, he said, instead of addressing inefficiencies in public revenue management or collecting outstanding dues from major companies accused of failing to meet past financial obligations, “the government has turned to taxing everyday services used by citizens because it is the easiest option.”

Eid pointed out that many countries are reducing taxes on digital services to support technological transformation, “while Iraq is moving in the opposite direction.” He also argued that imposing a tax of this scale on services relied upon by millions for work and education highlights a misalignment in fiscal priorities and deepens perceptions of inequality.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-s-20-telecom-tax-sparks-debate-over-economic-burden-on-citizens

News, Rumors and Opinions Monday 3-23-2026

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 Mon. 23 March 2026

Compiled Mon. 23 March 2026 12:01 am EST by Judy Byington

Judy Note: “THIS IS THE BLACK SWAN: 23 March 2026 (03.23.2026). Remember this date. The 48 hours expire. The Strait closes or the grid falls. Either way, the fiat system collapses. Either way, the petrodollar dies.

“THE QUANTUM FINANCIAL SYSTEM IS NOT COMING. IT IS ALREADY HERE. WAITING. FOR THIS EXACT MOMENT. Gold. XRP. ISO 20022.

Sun. 22 March 2026 MAJOR ECONOMIC INTEL UPDATE — APRIL 2026 NESARA-ALIGNED OPERATIONS ARE NO LONGER HIDDEN. THEY ARE ACTIVE. …The Great Reset on Telegram

The financial shift that was once dismissed as speculation is now (allegedly) unfolding in real time.

Multiple high-level financial and institutional channels confirm that payout mechanisms tied to the transition framework have already(allegedly entered early execution phases under Treasury coordination and secured oversight structures.

April 2026 marks a critical acceleration point in what is now recognized as the largest financial restructuring in modern history.

What started as backend alignment in 2025 has now (allegedly moved into controlled public-phase integration.

Behind the scenes, the architecture of the old financial order is (allegedly being systematically dismantled while a new asset-backed framework is being activated in parallel. This phase includes:

• The controlled shutdown of legacy fiat dependency systems
• The reallocation of seized off-ledger assets into structured redistribution channels
• The unwinding of long-standing global debt mechanisms tied to central banking control
• The live integration of ISO20022 and asset-backed settlement layers

Every major institution is aware of the transition: Treasury, central banks, and global financial entities are already (allegedly operating within updated protocols. Public silence is intentional.

THE UNITED STATES IS NOW IN THE EXECUTION PHASE For decades, the system operated on inflation, debt expansion, and invisible extraction. That model is now reaching its endpoint.

Since early 2025, coordinated actions have been reshaping the financial core from within.

NESARA-aligned protocols are activating in layers:

• Internal systems are already processing debt-adjustment structures
• Gold-backed calibration models are running through Treasury-linked channels
• Recovered capital from international holdings is being redirected into controlled distribution pipelines
• Legacy banking clearance systems are being replaced by secure, next-generation financial rails

This infrastructure is already functioning — even if it is not being acknowledged publicly.

Read full post here:  https://dinarchronicles.com/2026/03/23/restored-republic-via-a-gcr-update-as-of-march-23-2026/

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

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

Jeff: The government could form very quickly after the war and voting on a president...This is just a gut feeling...more of an opinion, doesn't mean I'm right, but I have a feeling they have the formation of the government more strategically planned than they're telling us because they've said about extending Sudani's term countless times...Those are the things you need to look for to see how this is playing out...

Militia Man Iraq's current phase mirrors the Turkmenistan  transition in 2009...I studied it very thoroughly, paid attention to it and I knew Iraq's model was mirroring it.  It's not exact because we have new technologies...but the psychological aspect of it is for the people.  They need to have the people on board to do reforms and they do...Al-Sudani has trust... Turkmenistan first reduced cash circulation, enforced official rates and built reserves.  It then removed 3 zeros from its currency...followed by a managed float...Iraq has followed a similar sequence. 3 years of stacking reserves...non-oil revenues increased, inflation significantly low and note reduction through electronic payments... [Post 1 of 2....stay tuned]

Militia Man  The delete the three zeros project is a technical cleanup and a managed REER...Managed REER is the logical next step to reflect actual economic strength...So what comes next?  If all of this holds true, and the data strongly suggests it does, the logical next step is a managed REER adjustment when the CBI deems it is prudent.  A clean political slate would help create the most stable environment for that move.  But the CBI independence means the monetary decision can proceed on its own timeline once internal fundamentals and regional calm are in place...The next phase is the one we've been watching for for many years...I think the quiet way they've done this is winning... [Post 2 of 2]

Is this the Perfect Silver Set Up?

Miles Harris: 3-23-2026

A deep dive into whether silver is setting up for a major revaluation.

This video breaks down the disconnect between falling prices and rising real-world demand, the role of silver in energy, AI, and infrastructure, and how shifts in the financial system could change everything.

Is this just another downturn; or the early stage of a perfect long-term setup?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1z1iIIIkVA