Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Morning 2-24-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

MONTANA JOINS GROWING LIST OF US STATES KNOCKING BACK BITCOIN RESERVE BILLS

Montana joins North Dakota, Wyoming, and Pennsylvania in halting proposals to include Bitcoin in state reserves.

Montana’s attempt to invest public funds in Bitcoin was thwarted on Friday when a piece of legislation failed to gain approval in the House of Representatives.

House Bill 429, introduced earlier this month by Representative Curtis Schomer, sought to create a special revenue account allowing up to $50 million to be allocated for crypto, stablecoins, and precious metals

The aim, according to Schomer, was to diversify the state’s assets and potentially provide higher returns than traditional bond investments.

Even though Bitcoin (BTC) was the only digital asset to meet the criteria set by the bill with $1.8 trillion in market cap, it encountered strong opposition from lawmakers, culminating in a 41-59 vote in the House.

Montana now joins a growing list of states that have rejected Bitcoin reserve proposals, including North Dakota, Wyoming, and Pennsylvania.

While Montana has opted for caution, the push for Bitcoin reserves is gaining momentum elsewhere, with several other states moving faster than the federal government to integrate cryptos into public finance.

Roughly 19 state proposals are still pending, as per Bitcoin Reserve Tracker data, including in Arizona, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Oklahoma, New Hampshire, and Texas, among others.

Utah’s Blockchain and Digital Innovation Amendments bill, which allows the state treasurer to allocate up to 5% of public funds to digital assets, is still pending.

Arizona’s Senate Finance Committee has advanced a bill proposing to allow up to 10% of public funds, including pension systems, to be invested in crypto.

The bill now heads to the Senate Rules Committee for additional examination and, if greenlit, will proceed to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

Texas is also exploring two separate bills: one permitting up to 1% of the general revenue fund to be allocated to Bitcoin and another focused on Bitcoin donations and crypto payment conversions.

Meanwhile, countries such as Switzerland, Brazil, Japan, and Russia are also exploring the potential of using Bitcoin as part of their national reserve strategies.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Decrypt

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GEORGIA INTRODUCES NEW BITCOIN RESERVE BILL

Yet another strategic Bitcoin reserve (SBR) bill has been submitted to the Georgia Senate.  Notably, the legislative effort (SB 228) was introduced by the Democrats.  The bill has emerged as a partisan competitor to the SBR bill that was put forward by the Republicans (SB 178) ten days ago.

Notably, the bill that was introduced by the Democrats has no investment limit. For comparison, the competing bill has a 5% cap.  Overall, more than 20 state-level SBR bills have now been introduced in the US.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  U Today

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If this Happens, the USD System Collapses, US Gold Reserves Gone Missing?

If this Happens, the USD System Collapses, US Gold Reserves Gone Missing?

Sean Foo:  2-22-2025

In a move that has sent ripples of speculation and anticipation through financial markets, President Donald Trump has confirmed his intention to personally oversee an audit of the gold reserves held at Fort Knox.

This announcement, made via a statement released earlier this week, has ignited a firestorm of debate, with many questioning the motives and potential consequences of such an unprecedented action.

Fort Knox, a heavily guarded United States Army post in Kentucky, is legendary for its supposed storage of a vast portion of the nation’s gold reserves. The vault, encased in granite and protected by layers of security, has become a symbol of American economic strength and stability.

However, rumors and conspiracy theories surrounding the actual contents of the vault, and whether the gold is actually there, have persisted for decades.

Now, Trump, known for his unconventional approach and disruptive tendencies, seems poised to finally address these rumors head-on. Details surrounding the audit are scarce, but his statement hinted at a deep concern regarding the integrity of the nation’s gold holdings.

The potential ramifications of this audit are enormous. For decades, the U.S. dollar has been considered a reserve currency, partially backed by the perceived strength and security of the nation’s gold reserves. Should the audit reveal a significant discrepancy – or worse, an absence of a substantial portion of the gold – the consequences could be devastating.

While some see Trump’s move as a necessary step towards transparency and accountability, others view it as a reckless gamble that could destabilize the global economy. Critics argue that the audit itself could spark unnecessary panic and speculation, even if the gold is found to be intact. Concerns have also been raised about the practicality and security of conducting such an audit, given the sensitive nature of the gold reserves.

The coming weeks will be crucial as details surrounding the audit continue to emerge. Whether this bold move will ultimately reinforce faith in the American financial system or trigger a crisis remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the world will be watching closely as Trump attempts to unlock the secrets of Fort Knox and potentially reshape the future of the U.S. dollar.

Watch the video below from Sean Foo for further insights and information.

https://youtu.be/ZItA-KKSAEY

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Sunday Afternoon 2-23-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

COINBASE SAYS SEC WILL DROP LAWSUIT AGAINST CRYPTO EXCHANGE—CITING CHANGE IN ‘POLITICAL LEADERSHIP’

The Securities and Exchange Commission has agreed to drop its lawsuit against Coinbase, following what the crypto exchange said was a change in “political leadership” at the agency, which accused Coinbase of failing to register as a securities exchange under the Biden administration.

6:34 PM

▪Paul Grewal, Coinbase’s chief legal officer, wrote in a blog post Friday saying SEC officials have agreed “in principle” to dismiss the agency’s lawsuit against Coinbase.

▪The SEC sued Coinbase—the largest crypto firm in the U.S.—in Manhattan federal court in 2023, alleging at least 13 crypto assets sold by the crypto exchange should have been registered as securities before they were offered publicly.

▪“What changed over those two years was the political leadership at the SEC,” Grewal wrote, appearing to reference the lawsuit being filed under the Biden administration and a shift in oversight under President Donald Trump, who has promised to lessen the regulatory burdens facing the industry.

▪Grewal told the Wall Street Journal that SEC officials will likely vote next week to dismiss the agency’s lawsuit (Coinbase did not immediately respond to a request for comment).

▪The SEC declined to comment to Forbes.

Key Background
The SEC targeted several cryptocurrency firms under the Biden administration, including lawsuits filed against Coinbase, Binance and Kraken, among others.

Regulators pushed for more oversight of the industry, claiming crypto assets sold by crypto exchanges were securities that should be registered under the SEC’s umbrella. Coinbase—which went public in 2021—disputed the SEC’s claims and accused the agency of “hurting America’s economic competitiveness.”

A federal district court declined to toss the SEC’s case against Coinbase in March 2024, and the crypto firm appealed the ruling in January. The SEC’s lawsuits against Binance and Kraken are ongoing, though the SEC has requested its case against Binance be paused.

What Has Trump Said About Regulating The Crypto Industry?
In the lead-up to his inauguration, Trump indicated he would use his executive powers to reduce regulatory burdens facing crypto firms.

He suggested he would create a new crypto advisory council, and Trump reportedly planned to unveil an executive order declaring cryptocurrency a policy priority while advising agencies to work with the industry.

Acting SEC chair Mark Uyeda said earlier this week a task force to oversee the crypto industry—established by former SEC chair Gary Gensler—would be cut down, and a new task force is reportedly moving away from Gensler’s approach.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Forbes

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RUSSIA'S SUPREME COURT MOVES TO CLASSIFY CRYPTO AS PROPERTY

Russia’s Supreme Court is pushing to classify cryptocurrency as property in penal cases, aiming to strengthen law enforcement’s ability to track, freeze, and confiscate illicit digital assets.

Russia’s Supreme Court Advances Crypto Legalization Efforts
Russia’s Supreme Court has taken an increasingly active role in defining the legal status of cryptocurrency, with its latest efforts focusing on recognizing digital assets as property for penal proceedings, Tass reported on Feb. 20. Chairperson Irina Podnosova addressed the issue at a recent meeting attended by judges and Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating:

With the spread of cryptocurrency in the economy, there has been a rise in crimes where the digital currency is either the means of committing the crime, the criminal income, or the object of the offense.

She further confirmed that the Supreme Court is involved in drafting a “legislative initiative aimed at recognizing digital currency as property for purposes of penal proceedings,” a move that could strengthen law enforcement’s ability to handle crypto-related crimes.

This is not the first time Russia’s Supreme Court has addressed cryptocurrency in legal proceedings. In 2019, it ruled that converting bitcoin into rubles constituted money laundering when the digital currency was obtained through illegal activities, particularly in cases involving drug-related transactions.

 The court’s decision reinforced that cryptocurrencies could fall under existing anti-money laundering laws. Additionally, in 2021, the court ruled that WMZ, the electronic currency used in the Webmoney Transfer system, was legally recognized as an object of civil rights, setting a precedent for the legal treatment of digital assets in Russia.

These earlier rulings indicate the Supreme Court’s ongoing efforts to integrate cryptocurrency into the country’s judicial framework.

6:34 PM

Despite stable crime patterns in Russia, where property crimes account for 38%, violent crimes for 24%, and offenses against public security and order for 24%, the growing use of digital currency in criminal activities has prompted efforts for clearer legal definitions, according to Podnosova.

By officially classifying cryptocurrency as property, authorities will be better positioned to track, freeze, and confiscate illicit digital assets. As more countries seek to regulate the crypto space, Russia’s legislative efforts highlight the increasing necessity for legal clarity in digital finance.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Bitcoin

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Who's Buying All The Gold? | Clive Thompson

Who's Buying All The Gold? | Clive Thompson

Liberty and Finance:  2-22-2025

Retired wealth manager Clive Thompson discusses the current state of the gold market, noting its unprecedented price levels amid rising inflation. He highlights unusual patterns in the futures market, with delivery notices for gold significantly higher than typical.

Thompson explains that central banks are actively acquiring gold as a hedge against economic uncertainty, while political factors are also influencing market dynamics.

The world of finance is often complex and turbulent, requiring astute observation and seasoned experience to navigate successfully. Retired wealth manager Clive Thompson recently joined Liberty and Finance to share his insights on the current state of the gold market, and his analysis paints a picture of unprecedented circumstances driven by a confluence of economic and political factors.

Thompson, leveraging years of experience managing wealth through various market cycles, immediately highlighted the remarkable price levels gold is currently commanding. He attributed this surge, in part, to the persistently high inflation gripping economies worldwide, pushing investors towards the safe haven asset in droves.

However, the story doesn’t end there. Thompson pointed to unusual patterns emerging in the futures market that suggest a deeper, more complex dynamic at play.

Diving deeper into the underlying causes, Thompson emphasized the role of central banks. “Central banks are actively acquiring gold as a hedge against economic uncertainty,” he revealed.

With global economies facing potential recession, rising interest rates, and geopolitical instability, central banks are bolstering their reserves with gold, recognizing its intrinsic value and ability to hold its own during times of crisis.

Political factors are also heavily influencing market dynamics, according to Thompson. He didn’t elaborate on specifics, but the implication is clear: global uncertainty, trade tensions, and potential conflicts are all contributing to the demand for gold as a safe haven asset.

Despite the positive outlook for gold itself, Thompson offered a word of caution regarding gold mining stocks. He noted the underperformance of these equities relative to the price of gold, a discrepancy that warrants careful consideration. This divergence suggests that factors specific to the mining industry, such as operational costs, political risks in mining regions, and environmental concerns, are weighing on investor sentiment.

Ultimately, Thompson underscored the fundamental principle of diversification in asset allocation. While he believes gold offers a compelling hedge against economic uncertainty and inflation, he cautioned against putting all eggs in one basket. A well-rounded portfolio, diversified across various asset classes, remains the cornerstone of sound financial planning.

In conclusion, Clive Thompson’s analysis paints a compelling picture of a gold market operating in unprecedented territory. Driven by inflation, central bank demand, and geopolitical uncertainty, gold prices are reaching new heights. While the future remains uncertain, Thompson’s insights provide valuable guidance for investors navigating the complexities of the global financial landscape.

 His emphasis on diversification and understanding the nuances of the gold market, including the performance of mining stocks, is crucial for making informed investment decisions in these turbulent times.

INTERVIEW TIMELINE:

0:00 Intro

1:30 COMEX gold deliveries

15:00 Major shifts in gold market

20:00 Gold's price historically

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7G8br-KUFTk

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Sunday Morning 2-23-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

HOW US TRADE WARS ARE SHAPING THE CRYPTO MARKET

Trump’s trade war tariffs triggered volatility in crypto markets, with Bitcoin dropping to $91,200 before rebounding. While short-term turbulence persists, rising inflation could drive long-term crypto adoption as a hedge against devaluation. Investors should stay vigilant.

Over the past month, the crypto market has experienced notable price swings, with the total market capitalization oscillating between $3 trillion and $3.73 trillion. A key catalyst behind this volatility is President Trump. While his inauguration took Bitcoin to a new all-time high of $109,200, his recent trade war did the opposite.

The administration imposed a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, along with a 10% tariff on Chinese goods, sending shockwaves through global markets including the crypto sector.

Although a temporary 30-day pause on these tariffs provided some relief, taking Bitcoin over the $100k mark, subsequent actions such as an additional 25% tariff on iron and aluminium left investors with a big question — How are these tariffs going to affect the crypto market?

The Reason Behind the Tariffs

The primary stated reason for these tariffs was to curb illegal immigration and prevent the inflow of contraband. However, many interpret this move as a strategic signal of US dominance over major economies.

Although Canada and Mexico quickly pledged to deploy around 10,000 personnel each to secure their borders—a move that led to a temporary pause in further tariff increases—the subsequent 25% tariff on iron and aluminium reveals a deeper strategic intent from the US.

This additional tariff indicates that the US is determined to maintain pressure on key industrial sectors, suggesting that the trade war is far from over.

How Did the Markets React?

The crypto markets had a knee-jerk reaction to the news taking Bitcoin to a low of $91,200. However, the market's resilience soon became evident when Bitcoin rebounded by over 10% in a single day, soaring to $102,000, and eventually stabilizing around $97,000. Similarly, altcoins experienced profit booking taking the market cap down to $3.4 trillion by the time the pause was announced.

The tariffs increased inflation fears and concerns over upcoming Federal Reserve rate decisions shifted investor sentiment. But a zoomed-out look at the markets would have helped investors see the hidden benefits of the trade war.

Long-Term Implications of the Tariff War

While the tariff-induced volatility has caused short-term corrections, there are long-term dynamics at play that could ultimately benefit the crypto sector. When a country increases tariffs, it often leads to higher inflation.

The US, for instance, imports billions of dollars worth of construction materials from neighbouring countries. Increased tariffs on these essentials drive up costs, potentially fueling inflation and weakening the dollar. In such scenarios, safe-haven assets like gold and crypto—tend to gain traction as investors seek protection against devaluation.

The recent CPI data showing a 0.5% increase in inflation is an early sign of the tariff war. Should the tariff war continue, it could create a macroeconomic environment where digital assets serve as an effective hedge against inflation. Coupled with improving regulatory clarity and growing institutional interest, this scenario may spur broader adoption of crypto over the long term.

Conclusion

The short-term turbulence triggered by Trump’s trade war offers a dual advantage for the crypto market. Firstly, it creates attractive entry points for investors, and secondly, it establishes a favourable environment for long-term sector growth.

While these conditions position Bitcoin and other digital assets on an upward trajectory, investors must remain vigilant and monitor trade developments closely to navigate news-driven volatility. Focusing on capital preservation and maintaining disciplined investment strategies will be key to capitalizing on future growth opportunities.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Economic Times

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BRICS DISCUSSES ALTERNATIVE PAYMENT PLATFORMS TO BYPASS WESTERN FINANCIAL SYSTEMS

BRICS Advances Alternative Payment Systems to Reduce Western Dependence

BRICS nations are actively discussing the development of alternative payment platforms to reduce their dependence on American financial systems, Tass reported on Feb. 19, citing Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Addressing the Russian State Duma, Lavrov emphasized that the initiative was originally pushed by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

“This is being discussed in BRICS, at the initiative of [Brazilian President Luiz Inacio] Lula da Silva … The previous summit stated a decision on the necessity of developing a proposal on alternative payment platforms through finance ministries and central banks,” he detailed, elaborating:

Such proposals have been made, they suggest, in particular, the creation of a so-called transborder payment initiative, the creation of a reinsurance company, and the BRICS Clear settlement and depositary infrastructure.

The proposal aims to provide member states with greater financial sovereignty through independent transaction mechanisms.

The 16th BRICS Summit, held in Kazan from Oct. 22-24, 2024, marked a major milestone under Russia’s chairmanship. It was the first summit to include newly admitted members.

During the event, BRICS leaders formalized their commitment to alternative payment solutions through the adoption of the Kazan Declaration.

The declaration outlined key financial goals, including “the possibility of establishment of an independent cross-border settlement and depositary infrastructure, BRICS Clear, while member states’ finance ministers and central bank chiefs were tasked with properly continuing the consideration of the issue of using national currencies, payment instruments and platforms.” The move signals a collective effort to establish a financial system less reliant on Western institutions.

BRICS nations have been actively working to reduce their reliance on the U.S. dollar in global trade and financial transactions. Many member states have increasingly turned to local currencies in trade agreements, aiming to bypass Western-dominated financial systems.

The push for alternative payment platforms, such as BRICS Clear and a trans-border payment initiative, is distinct from discussions about a single BRICS currency.

While the payment platforms focus on enabling cross-border transactions using existing national currencies, the single currency initiative—still in early discussions—would require deeper financial integration and a shared monetary framework. Unlike a common currency, which demands extensive policy coordination, independent payment platforms allow BRICS nations to strengthen economic cooperation while maintaining control over their domestic monetary policies.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Bitcoin News

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DOGE to Expose Real Gold Price - LFTV Ep 211

DOGE to Expose Real Gold Price - LFTV Ep 211

Kinesis money:  2-21-2025

In this week’s Live from the Vault, Andrew Maguire discusses how DOGE could help expose the true state of US Treasury gold reserves, with a potential price reset prompting an overdue audit revealing multiple ownership claims and mismanagement.

 As physical demand rises and central banks rush to cover bullion leases, the balance of gold pricing power is shifting from West to East, with Asian buyers absorbing supply while Western institutions lose their grip on the market.

Maguire argues that Musk’s penchant for efficiency and cost-cutting, coupled with the inherent opaqueness surrounding US gold reserves, could lead to a long overdue and potentially explosive audit.

This audit, Maguire suggests, might reveal a complex web of multiple ownership claims and significant mismanagement within the US Treasury, ultimately impacting the global gold price.

The core issue lies in the lack of transparency surrounding US gold holdings. For years, speculation has persisted regarding the actual amount of physical gold underpinning official figures. A thorough, transparent audit – something that Musk’s DOGE could potentially trigger – would challenge the status quo.

Imagine the potential consequences if such an audit revealed that the reported gold reserves are overstated, heavily leased, or subject to multiple claims from various entities. This revelation could trigger a significant price reset, forcing a market reckoning with potentially dramatic implications for global finance.

But the potential exposure of the US Treasury’s gold situation isn’t the only factor at play. Maguire highlights a critical shift in the balance of power within the gold market. For decades, Western institutions have largely dictated gold pricing. However, a rising tide of physical demand, particularly from Asia, is starting to change the game.

Central banks, recognizing the inherent value and security of gold, are scrambling to cover bullion leases, further tightening the market. Simultaneously, Asian buyers, including China and India, are aggressively absorbing available gold supply. This escalating demand from the East is placing immense pressure on Western institutions, who are struggling to maintain their grip on price control.

While Western entities may be losing their influence, the demand from the East isn’t just about investment; it’s about securing a tangible asset in an increasingly uncertain global landscape. This growing appetite from Asia positions them as the new custodians of the gold market, driving value and influencing price discovery.

The confluence of these two factors – the potential for a US gold audit prompted by Musk’s DOGE and the burgeoning demand from the East – presents a compelling scenario for a potentially explosive shift in the gold market.

 If Maguire’s predictions hold true, we could be on the cusp of a significant price realignment, driven by a newfound transparency and a changing landscape of power.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UoEe4qn1a-E

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Saturday Afternoon 2-22-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

HBAR FOUNDATION INVESTS IN TOKENIZED FIDELITY USD MONEY MARKET FUND

The HBAR Foundation has announced an investment in Archax’s tokenized shares of Fidelity International’s USD Money Market Fund.

Archax, the first FCA-regulated digital asset exchange, broker, and custodian, recently tokenized the MMF on the Hedera network.

The tokenized shares, available on the Archax platform, allow institutional investors to gain exposure to the fund through blockchain technology. These digital assets can also serve as proof-of-reserves for stablecoin treasury verification, enhancing transparency within the broader digital finance ecosystem, according to a company announcement.

The move highlights Hedera’s expanding role in institutional tokenization while advancing Fidelity International’s efforts to bring traditional financial products on-chain.

Last December, Hedera integrated Chainlink’s Data Feeds and Proof of Reserve on its mainnet to support DeFi and tokenized real-world assets. This followed a partnership between the HBAR Foundation and Chainlink, giving developers access to high-quality data and on-chain reserve verification.

Strategic investment

Gregg Bell, Senior Vice President at the HBAR Foundation, emphasized the strategic importance of the investment, stating, “Looking ahead to 2025, real-world asset tokenization will be a key catalyst for blockchain adoption. Our vision for a fully tokenized financial ecosystem aligns with Fidelity International’s commitment to innovation.”

He added that partnering with asset managers like Fidelity International is essential for accelerating institutional adoption.

The investment further strengthens Hedera’s push into institutional markets by leveraging its high-throughput infrastructure. The network’s ability to provide low-cost, fixed-fee transactions makes it an appealing option for financial institutions exploring tokenization.

The collaboration between the HBAR Foundation, Archax, and Fidelity International reflects a broader industry shift toward blockchain-powered financial products. As more institutions explore tokenization, partnerships like this could pave the way for greater adoption of digital asset infrastructure in traditional markets.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CryptoNews

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BRICS NEWS:  BRAZIL PLANS TO REJECT BRICS CURRENCY

Brazil is considering dropping the idea of forming a new BRICS currency as it chairs the 17th summit in Rio De Janeiro in July 2025. Four government officials on the condition of anonymity revealed to Reuters that President Luiz Lula da Silva is planning to nix the idea of a common currency. The alliance is under pressure from Trump who threatened to impose tariffs if they ditch the US dollar.

The idea of developing a new BRICS currency could draw the ire of US President Donald Trump, who has vowed to crush anyone who plans to ditch the dollar for trade. Just recently, BRICS member India also denounced the formation of a new currency and embraced the US dollar for cross-border transactions.

After Rejecting BRICS Currency, Brazil Wants to End Reliance on the US Dollar

A government official revealed that Brazil wants to shelve BRICS currency but also aims to reduce dependency on the US dollar. 

The source explained that Brazil will provide solutions for ending reliance on the US dollar at the upcoming summit. The 17th summit is scheduled to take place on July 6-7 with the nine member countries being in attendance.

Two out of the nine BRICS countries have rejected the idea of the formation of a new currency. Only Russia, China, and Iran are aggressively advancing the de-dollarization agenda to uplift their respective economies. Russia and Iran are reeling under pressure due to sanctions and are desperate to trade in local currencies.

On the other hand, China is looking to dominate the global finances by pushing the Chinese yuan for trade. India is distancing itself from the idea fearing that China is using BRICS as a stepping stone to advance its global agenda. The cracks in BRICS are wide open even before the alliance has made the currency a reality.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Watcher Guru

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WHAT IS DOGE DIVIDEND CHECK? WILL YOU GET $5,000 STIMULUS CHECK? HERE'S WHAT TO KNOW

Wondering if you should expect a $5,000 check from DOGE? And, is it a stimulus, dividend or refund? Here's what we know so far about what it is and who would potentially get it.

President Donald Trump said he's considering a plan to pay out $5,000 stimulus checks to taxpayers in the form of a 'DOGE dividend' during a speech on Wednesday. He explained it as part to take 20% of the savings identified by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and give it back to the American taxpayers.

This 'DOGE dividend' idea was previously floated on Tuesday by Azoria investment firm CEO James Fishback on Musk's social media platform X, suggesting President Trump and Musk "should announce a ‘DOGE Dividend’ — a tax refund check sent to every taxpayer, funded exclusively with a portion of the total savings delivered by DOGE." To which, Musk replied "Will check with the President."

“The numbers are incredible, Elon. So many millions, billions — hundreds of billions,” Trump said in his speech. “And we’re thinking about giving 20% back to the American citizens, and 20% down to pay back our debt.”

The US national debt totaled $35.5 trillion in the 2024 fiscal year, a $1.4 trillion increase from 2023, according to the Treasury Department and US debt-to-GDP ratio rose by 2 percentage points in fiscal year 2024 from 2023.

Trump didn't share any further specifics or details about the possible 'DOGE dividend' or its certainty.

Albeit, Fishback's four-page proposal of the 'DOGE dividend' described it as a refund "sent only to tax-paying householders."

 Noting the difference from past stimulus checks, he added that DOGE checks would not be inflationary as they would be "exclusively funded with DOGE-driven savings, unlike COVID stimulus checks which were deficit-financed."

By definition, a dividend is a distribution of profits by a corporation to its shareholders and refund is a payment made back to a user that previously paid for something. A stimulus check on the other hand, is a direct payment to encourage spending and stimulate the economy by putting money directly into the consumers' hands.

What is DOGE?

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), officially the U.S. DOGE Service Temporary Organization, is an initiative created by Trump and led by 'special government employee' Musk.

The mission of DOGE was to slash federal spending, deregulation and "modernize federal technology and software to maximize governmental efficiency and productivity."

How much has DOGE saved?

At the time it was introduced, DOGE's effort was to save as much as $2 trillion dollars a year. DOGE claims to have already saved $55 billion in government cuts so far, but the figure has not been verified.

The agency has made drastic cuts across federal agencies, including mass firings of federal workers. Some agencies that have already seen cuts include the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Department of Education, the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  USA Today

~~~~~~~~~

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Saturday Morning 2-22-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

CONGRESS PUSHES 5 URGENT BANKING REFORMS TO STOP DEBANKING

Lawmakers are demanding urgent FDIC action to end “debanking,” warning that unchecked regulatory power threatens financial access and could be weaponized against lawful businesses.

Lawmakers are demanding urgent FDIC action to end “debanking,” warning that unchecked regulatory power threatens financial access and could be weaponized against lawful businesses.

5 Recommendations to End ‘Debanking’: Congress Pressures FDIC to Act Now

House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill, along with Representatives Dan Meuser, Andy Barr, and Bryan Steil, have urged the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to implement clearer regulations on digital assets.

In a letter addressed to FDIC Acting Chairman Travis Hill, the lawmakers expressed concerns over reports that federal regulators have pressured banks to deny services to cryptocurrency-related businesses, a practice known as “debanking.”

Emphasizing transparency and accountability in financial oversight, they warned of potential future misuse of regulatory authority, stating:

We are concerned that if we do not make the necessary changes, future Administrations will continue to operate under the Choke Point playbook using the supervisory process to debank disfavored industries.

The lawmakers proposed five key recommendations for the FDIC.

First, they urged the agency to require all banking supervisory guidance to be written and made public, preventing the use of informal verbal-only directives.

Second, they called for financial institutions to provide a clear rationale when closing customer accounts, ensuring greater accountability while adhering to the Bank Secrecy Act.

Third, they pushed for the elimination of “reputational risk” as a regulatory factor, arguing that it has been misused to justify unfair banking restrictions.

Fourth, they recommended an external review process for all supervisory guidance to weigh regulatory benefits against the impact on financial access.

Finally, they emphasized that all regulations should be applied uniformly across financial institutions to prevent selective enforcement.

The legislators acknowledged that some of these reforms might require congressional approval but urged the FDIC to take action where possible. They wrote:

While we understand that there is still a need for Congressional action to help clarify regulations surrounding digital assets, we hope that you will look at these recommendations and implement them appropriately.

They also requested clarification on which recommendations would require legislative intervention, noting: “Please let us know which recommendations you believe require an act of Congress to help better inform our legislative efforts.” The letter reflects growing concerns in Congress about ensuring fair banking access for digital asset firms and preventing regulatory overreach against specific industries.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Bitcoin News

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ZELENSKY SURRENDERS TO TRUMP AND 'WILL SIGN MINERAL DEAL WITHIN HOURS'

Donald Trump appears to have won his trade standoff with Volodymyr Zelensky, as the Ukrainian president is set to give in and sign a deal giving the U.S. access to deposits of critical minerals.

The deal was seen as crucial for satisfying Washington's demands for a peace settlement between Ukraine and Russia to end their three-year long war.

Zelensky told a nightly video address on Friday that teams of American and Ukrainian negotiators are working on a draft agreement, signaling an imminent deal.

'This is an agreement that can strengthen our relations, and the key is to work out the details to ensure its effectiveness,' he said. 'I look forward to the outcome - a just result.'

It's a staggering surrender by Zelensky, who just days earlier angrily lashed out at Trump saying: 'I can't sell our country.'

Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Friday evening: 'We're signing an agreement, hopefully in the next fairly short period of time.'

A deal could be struck as soon as Saturday, people briefed on negotiations told the Wall Street Journal. The exact terms are not yet clear, however Trump had been pushing for $500 billion worth of minerals in exchange for continued military support.

It comes after Zelensky angered Trump so much during negotiations that the president threatened to completely pull US funding from Ukraine, Axios reported.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Daily Mail

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BRICS: VLADIMIR PUTIN CALLS FOR RUSSIA TO PARTNER WITH ELON MUSK

BRICS Member Russia’s President Vladimir Putin is calling for the country to partner with Elon Musk, according to Deputy CEO of Gazprombank Dmitry Zauers. The Russian Bank’s CEO says that Putin spoke to him about joining forces with Musk to advance the country’s technology development.

“Join forces with Musk,” Putin reportedly told Zauers. “When he is finished reforming administrative agencies in the US, he will get back go back to science. You should work with him. We are already negotiating to work together in space, we can collaborate in this sphere also,” the Russian leader added.

Zauers says he told the Russian President about domestically produced batteries used in aerospace applications and neurochips. They are “our answer to Elon Musk,” the banker said, as Musk is a giant in the tech industry himself. However, Putin wants to partner with the Tesla and SpaceX founder, not rival him.

Russia and the US: Elon Musk to Serve as the Bridge for Partnership?

Putin and Russia have explored several working relationships with the US and US representatives in the past few months since Donald Trump’s presidential nomination. Recent reports reveal that Russia is now eyeing deals with the Trump administration to save its economy from collapsing.

Indeed, the two countries discussed possible cooperation on energy projects in the Arctic during a meeting in Saudi Arabia. Kirill Dmitriev, the head of the state-owned Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) confirmed that both sides negotiated some “specific areas of cooperation” and also discussed other economic policies in broad strokes.

Elon Musk has yet to comment on the reported request by Russia’s Vladimir Putin. While Donald Trump works to battle BRICS, the DOGE department leader has previously been in contact with the Russian President. It’s unclear if Musk would accept such a partnership, as he’s previously said Russia “can’t afford me.”

@ Newshounds News™

 Source: Watcher Guru 

~~~~~~~~~

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Friday Afternoon 2-21-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

EXCLUSIVE: U.S. PILES PRESSURE ON IRAQ TO RESUME KURDISH OIL EXPORTS, SOURCES SAY

▪️U.S. pressures Iraq to restart pipeline to Turkey, halt Kurdish oil smuggling to Iran - sources
▪️Iran views ally Iraq as vital to keeping its economy afloat
▪️Kurdish oil export resumption faces technical and payment hurdles
▪️Restart could raise questions about Iraq's OPEC+ compliance, analysts say

DUBAI/BAGHDAD/WASHINGTON, Feb 21 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump's administration is piling pressure on Iraq to allow Kurdish oil exports to restart or face sanctions alongside Iran, eight sources with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters.

A speedy resumption of exports from Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region would help to offset a potential fall in Iranian oil exports, which Washington has pledged to cut to zero as part of Trump's "maximum pressure" campaign against Tehran.

The U.S. government has said it wants to isolate Iran from the global economy and eliminate its oil export revenues in order to slow Iran's development of a nuclear weapon.

Iraq's oil minister made a surprise announcement on Monday that exports from Kurdistan would resume next week. That would mark the end of a near two-year dispute that has cut flows of more than 300,000 barrels per day (bpd) of Kurdish oil via Turkey to global markets.

Reuters spoke to eight sources in Baghdad, Washington and Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, who said that mounting pressure from the new U.S. administration was a key driver behind Monday's announcement.

All of the sources declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the issue.

Iran views its neighbor and ally Iraq as vital for keeping its economy afloat amidst sanctions. But Baghdad, a partner to both the United States and Iran, is wary of being caught in the crosshairs of Trump's policy to squeeze Tehran, the sources said.

Trump wants Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to sever economic and military ties with Iran. Last week, Reuters reported that Iraq's central bank blocked five more private banks from dollar access at the request of the U.S. Treasury.

Iraq's announcement on export resumption was hurried and lacked detail on how it would address technical issues that need to be resolved before flows can restart, four of the eight sources also.

Iran wields considerable military, political and economic influence in Iraq through its powerful Shi'ite militias and the political parties it backs in Baghdad. But the increased U.S. pressure comes at a time when Iran has been weakened by Israel's attacks on its regional proxies.

CURB SMUGGLING

With the pipeline taking Kurdish crude to the Turkish port of Ceyhan closed since 2023, the smuggling of Kurdish oil to Iran by truck has flourished. The U.S. is urging Baghdad to curb this flow, six of the eight sources said.

Reuters reported in July that an estimated 200,000 barrels per day of cut-price crude was being smuggled from Kurdistan to Iran and, to a lesser extent, Turkey by truck. The sources said the exports remained at around that level.

"Washington is pressuring Baghdad to ensure Kurdish crude is exported to global markets through Turkey rather than being sold cheaply to Iran," said an Iraqi oil official with knowledge of the crude trucking shipments crossing to Iran.

While the closure of the Turkish pipeline has prompted an uptick in Kurdish oil smuggling via Iran, a larger network that some experts believe generates at least $1 billion a year for Iran and its proxies has flourished in Iraq since al-Sudani took office in 2022, Reuters reported last year.

Two U.S. administration officials confirmed the U.S. had asked the Iraqi government to resume Kurdish exports. One of them said the move would help to dampen upward pressure on oil prices.

Asked about the administration's pressuring of Iraq to open up Kurdish oil exports, a White House official said: "It's not only important for regional security that our Kurdish partners be allowed to export their own oil but also help keep the price of gas low."

There has been close military cooperation between authorities in Kurdistan and the United States in the fight against Islamic State.

Trump's restoration of the "maximum pressure" campaign on Iran was one of his first acts after returning to office in late January. In addition to efforts to drive Iran's oil exports to zero, Trump ordered the U.S. treasury secretary to ensure that Iran can't use Iraq's financial system.

Trump also came into office promising to lower energy costs for Americans. A sharp drop in oil exports from Iran could drive up oil prices, and with it the gasoline price worldwide.

The resumption of Kurdish exports would help offset some of the loss to global supply of lower Iranian exports, but would cover only a fraction of the more than 2 million bpd of crude and fuel that Iran ships. However, Iran has proven adept in the past at finding means to circumvent U.S. sanctions on its oil sales.

Ole Hansen, head of commodity strategy at Saxo Bank, said the restart of exports from Kurdistan could help increase global oil supplies at a time when output was disrupted from other regions, such as Kazakhstan, where exports have dropped this week following a Ukrainian drone attack on a major pipeline pumping station in southern Russia.

"At this point in time, I believe the market has adopted a relatively neutral but nervous stance on crude oil prices," he said.

HURDLES TO RESTART

The pipeline was halted by Turkey in March 2023 after the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) ordered Ankara to pay Baghdad $1.5 billion in damages for unauthorized exports between 2014 and 2018.

There are still unresolved issues around payment, pricing and maintenance, the sources told Reuters. Two days of talks in the Kurdish city of Erbil this week failed to reach agreement, sources said.

The federal government wanted exports to restart without making commitments to the KRG on payments and without clarity on the payment mechanism, a source familiar with the matter said.

"We can't do that. We need clear visibility on guarantees," the source said.

Oil companies working in Kurdistan also have questions over payments.

Executives from Norwegian firm DNO (DNO.OL), opens new tab told analysts on Feb. 6 that before agreeing to ship oil through the pipeline to Ceyhan they wanted to understand how the company would be paid for future deliveries and how it would recoup $300 million for the oil it had delivered before the pipeline was shut.

Turkey has yet to receive any information from Iraq on the resumption of flows, Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar told Reuters on Wednesday.

A restart could also cause issues in OPEC+, or the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries plus Russia and other allies, where Iraq has been under pressure to comply with its pledge to reduce its output. Additional supply from the Kurdish region could put Iraq over its OPEC+ supply target.

An Iraqi official said it was possible for Iraq to restart the pipeline and remain compliant with OPEC+ supply policy.

Giovanni Staunovo, a commodity analyst at investment bank UBS, said the overall impact of the resumption could be muted.

"From an oil market perspective, Iraq is bound to the OPEC+ production deal, so I wouldn't expect additional production from Iraq in case of a pipeline restart, but just a change in the way it is exported (currently, among others, using trucks)," he said.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Reuters

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Economist’s “Gold News and Views” 2-21-2025

 ‘We’re Going to Go Into Fort Knox to Make Sure the Gold Is There’

Arcadia Economics:  2-21-2025

You might have a hard time believing this. But apparently one of the truly unthinkable events of the gold market is happening, as Donald Trump has just announced that he's going to audit the Fort Knox gold.

Donald Trump has made a surprising announcement that has reverberated through the gold market and financial circles: he plans to audit the gold reserves held at Fort Knox.

The statement, made during an interview on Air Force One, has sparked a mixture of excitement, skepticism, and outright disbelief.

For decades, whispers and conspiracy theories have swirled around Fort Knox, the heavily guarded United States Bullion Depository in Kentucky. These theories, often fueled by a lack of transparency and infrequent comprehensive audits, claim that the gold is missing, significantly less than reported, or even completely gone.

Trump’s promise to “go into Fort Knox to make sure the gold is there” taps into these existing anxieties.

 The last full audit of Fort Knox was conducted in 1953, although smaller, sporadic audits have taken place since then. Critics argue that these smaller audits are insufficient to definitively confirm the presence and quantity of the gold.

Donald Trump’s promise to audit Fort Knox has ignited a long-simmering debate about the security and integrity of the U.S.’s gold reserves.

Whether this will be a genuine effort to provide transparency and instill confidence or a political maneuver remains to be seen. However, the implications for the gold market and the global perception of U.S. financial stability are undeniable, and the world will be watching closely to see what unfolds.

We're venturing into some truly unchartered territory here, and to find out what happened, click to watch the video now!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxZxim3wfdU

Secret 'Gold Tunnel' to New York Fed? "Military, Take Charge!" Mike Maloney

2-21-2025

Could there be a hidden tunnel linking major vaults in the heart of New York’s financial district?

 In this eye-opening episode, Mike Maloney dives deep into the growing calls for a full-scale audit of U.S. gold reserves - covering everything from Fort Knox to the Federal Reserve.

Discover why massive gold inflows to the United States are sparking alarm bells, hear the shocking truth about ‘paper’ gold versus real bullion, and learn why the silver market might be poised for an even bigger squeeze.

If you care about sound money, transparency, and the future of precious metals, this is a must-watch. Watch now and join the conversation about who truly owns America’s gold - and why the military might need to step in.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56ZYJftvXhc

Trump Announces Audit of $400 Billion in Gold Held at Fort Knox, Elon Musk Wants to Livestream It

Lena Petrova:  2-21-2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hymFbPY3HVY

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Friday Morning 2-21-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

SEC ACKNOWLEDGES SLEW OF CRYPTO ETF FILINGS AS REVIEWS, APPROVALS ACCELERATE

The regulator is seeking comment on filings covering crypto staking, options and altcoin ETFs, among others.

The US Securities and Exchange Commission has acknowledged some half a dozen exchange filings related to cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the past two days, according to Feb. 19 and Feb. 20 regulatory submissions.

The filings, submitted by securities exchanges Nasdaq ISE and Cboe BZX, address proposed rule changes for crypto ETFs concerning staking, options, in-kind redemptions and new types of altcoin funds, the documents show.

The SEC’s acknowledgments highlight how the agency has softened its stance on crypto since US President Donald Trump started his second term on Jan. 20. Consequently, two crypto index ETFs launched in February and analysts expect more ETF approvals to follow in 2025.

Flurry of filings

Nasdaq’s filing pertains to position and exercise limits on options tied to BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), the most popular spot crypto ETF, with nearly $57 billion in net assets, according to BlackRock’s iShares website.

Meanwhile, Cboe filed to list options on Grayscale’s and Bitwise’s Ether.  The SEC has approved options on Bitcoin ETFs but has not yet greenlighted options on Ether ETFs.

Cboe has also asked for permission to list Canary and WisdomTree’s proposed XRP ETFs, support in-kind creations and redemptions for Fidelity’s Bitcoin and ETH ETFs, and allow 21Shares’ Ether ETF to stake a portion of its ETH holdings for additional yield.

The SEC is reportedly “very, very interested” in staking and has asked the industry to draft a memo reviewing the different types of staking and their potential benefits, Eleanor Terrett, a reporter for Fox Business, said in a Feb. 20 post on the X platform.

Terret said her source “expects to see some kind of agency guidance on staking in the near future as it’s a topic they’re engaging enthusiastically on.”

In-kind creations and redemptions, where an ETF swaps shares for a basket of underlying assets, are more tax efficient and, therefore, preferred by most ETF issuers and investors. The SEC has not yet permitted in-kind redemptions for spot cryptocurrency ETFs.

Expected approvals

Bloomberg Intelligence has set the odds of an XRP ETF approval in the US at 65%. Its estimates for Litecoin and Solana ETF approval odds are even higher, at 90% and 70%, respectively.

On Feb. 14, the SEC acknowledged Cboe’s request to list asset manager 21Shares’ XRP ETF, further signaling the SEC’s openness to approving an ETF for the altcoin.

On Feb. 19, cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase launched SOL futures contracts on its regulated US derivatives exchange. Robust futures markets generally support cryptocurrency ETF applications because they provide a stable benchmark for asset prices.

On Feb. 20, Franklin Templeton launched an ETF holding both spot Bitcoin and Ether. It was the second cryptocurrency index ETF to hit the market after asset manager Hashdex launched its Nasdaq Crypto Index US ETF (NCIQ) on Feb. 14.

In 2024, under former US President Joe Biden, the SEC allowed spot BTC and ETH ETFs to list in the US after years of resistance but barred other types of crypto ETFs from listing.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CoinTelegraph

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HONG KONG UNVEILS ROADMAP TO BECOME GLOBAL DIGITAL ASSET HUB

Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) published a 12 point ASPIRe roadmap for the territory to become a global digital asset hub.

Until October last year, it had licensed two cryptocurrency exchanges. That figure rose to ten yesterday with the licensing of Bullish, the exchange founded by Block.one and backed by Peter Thiel.

Top of the SFC’s priority list is to introduce licensing regimes for over the counter (OTC) ‘virtual asset’ marketplaces as well as virtual asset custodians. While it wants to ensure better compliance and enhance consumer protection, it is willing to lean into the more innovative aspects of web3 that are sometimes considered risky. 

Currently the following activities are not allowed in Hong Kong, even for licensed exchanges: New token issuance, margin trading, derivatives, staking, and borrowing/lending. The SFC is willing to explore each of these, but some will be restricted to professional investors, such as derivatives and borrowing/lending.

“Adhering to the core principles of investor protection, sustainable liquidity and adaptive regulation, the roadmap in itself is a calibrated response to emerging VA market challenges and thus helps future-proof our ecosystem,” said Dr Eric Yip, the SFC’s Executive Director of Intermediaries.

“The roadmap is not a final destination but a living blueprint, one that invites collective efforts to advance Hong Kong’s vision as a global hub where innovation thrives within guardrails.”

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Ledger Insights

~~~~~~~~~

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