Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Tuesday Morning 2-25-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

BIG NEWS: SEC PLANS TO CUT 10 REGIONAL OFFICE LEADERS AS PART OF DOGE-DRIVEN COST-CUTTING PLAN

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) plans to remove the top leaders at its 10 regional offices as part of a broader cost-cutting initiative. As reported by Reuters, according to sources familiar with the matter, the SEC informed directors across these offices on Friday that their positions will be eliminated as part of a plan set to be submitted next month.

This move is part of a larger push for cost reductions under the Trump administration, which has been focused on purging federal agencies and cutting expenses. The SEC, which oversees the U.S. capital markets, is responding to pressure from President Donald Trump to reduce staff and expenses.

SEC leaders have been asked to suggest major budget cuts. As part of cost-cutting, a new department DOGE, led by Elon Musk is involved, and Musk has demanded federal employees list their recent accomplishments or risk being fired.

The decision to eliminate the regional directors, which requires approval from the three-person SEC commission, comes as the agency has already started scaling back its crypto enforcement efforts.

The SEC has offices from San Francisco to Miami, where officials lead investigations into public companies, brokers, and investment advisers. These directors play a crucial role in enforcement and examination decisions, making their removal a significant change within the agency.

 The reorganization plan will be submitted by SEC leaders, including Acting Chairman Mark Uyeda, and is expected to focus on restructuring operations to improve efficiency.

Reacting to the same, former SEC lawyer Marc Fagel said, “It’s almost like the head of DOGE, previously charged with securities fraud and currently the defendant in an ongoing SEC enforcement action, isn’t entirely free of conflicts in dismantling the SEC’s effectiveness.”

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Coinpedia

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OHIO INTRODUCES BILL PREVENTING STATE TAXES ON CRYPTO PAYMENTS

The legislation also requires state pension funds to evaluate investing in crypto exchange-traded funds, and covers the right to self-custody and crypto mining.

Lawmakers in the US state of Ohio have introduced a bill that prohibits the state legislature from imposing taxes on digital assets when used as a payment method.

Ohio House Bill 116, introduced on Feb. 24 by Representative Steve Demetriou and co-sponsored by Tex Fischer, Brian Lorenz, Ty D. Mathews, Riordan McClain and Josh Williams, aims to amend existing legislation preventing municipalities from imposing extra taxes or fees on crypto assets beyond those applied to traditional fiat transactions.

“The general assembly shall not enact a bill that proposes to impose a fee, tax, assessment, or other charge on digital assets used as a method of payment for goods and services,” it reads.

The bill defines “digital assets” as cryptocurrencies, stablecoins and non-fungible tokens.  

The bill clarifies that taxes usually applied to legal tender, such as state or sales taxes, would still apply to crypto transactions, but there should be no new levies.

The “Ohio Blockchain Basics Act” also stated that no state agency or political subdivision may prohibit individuals from accepting crypto assets as payment for goods and services.

Right to self-custody, crypto mining

The bill also lets its residents retain the right to self-custody their digital assets using hardware or self-hosted wallets and partake in crypto staking.

Additionally, activities such as mining, staking, and exchanging crypto assets for other crypto assets do not require “money transmission” licensing under existing Ohio laws.

Individuals are also permitted to engage in crypto mining in residential areas if they comply with local zoning regulations. Meanwhile, mining businesses are explicitly allowed in industrial zones and cannot be unfairly targeted by local zoning changes.

Under the proposed legislation change, Ohio state retirement funds will also be required to evaluate the potential risks and benefits of investing in a crypto exchange-traded fund and report back to the General Assembly within a year.

Ohio representatives have been proactive with crypto-related bills in recent months. In September, Ohio Senator Niraj Antani introduced a bill requiring the state to accept cryptocurrency for payment of state taxes and fees.

In December, Ohio House Republican leader Derek Merrin introduced HB 703, aiming to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve for the state.

Meanwhile, Ohio Senator Sandra O’Brien introduced another bill in February to create an “Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Fund,” with a five-year hodling period.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CoinTelegraph

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SOUTH DAKOTA FOLLOWS MONTANA'S LEAD, THROWS WATER ON BITCOIN RESERVE PLANS

While South Dakota lawmakers rejected the bill citing volatility concerns, Rep Logan Manhart plans to push for its revival next year.

South Dakota lawmakers dealt another blow to Bitcoin advocates on Monday when they voted to axe a bill that would have allowed the state to invest in Bitcoin.

In a key move, the House Commerce and Energy Committee voted 9-3 to defer HB1202 until the 41st day of the session, a procedural decision that effectively killed the bill, as the session concludes in no more than 40 days.

South Dakota’s decision follows a similar outcome in Montana, where lawmakers shot down a Bitcoin reserve bill in a 41-59 vote last week.

The proposal, introduced by State Representative Logan Manhart (R-S.D.), sought to permit the state to allocate up to 10% of its public funds into Bitcoin investments as a way to diversify its financial portfolio.

"It’s a commonsense update to South Dakota’s investment strategy by allowing a limited allocation of state funds into alternative assets that have consistently proven to preserve value, particularly in inflationary environments," Manhart said, as cited in the South Dakota Public Broadcasting report.

Matt Clark, South Dakota’s State Investment Officer, raised concerns about Bitcoin’s volatility and lack of intrinsic value.

@ Newshounds News™

Source: Decrypt 

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Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Monday Evening 2-24-25

Gold Retreats From Highs

Arabic and international   Economy News - Follow-up  Gold prices retreated on Monday from an all-time high hit during trading, supported by concerns about US President Donald Trump's plans to impose new tariffs, while investors' focus turned to a key report on inflation in the United States, due later in the week.  Spot gold fell 0.09% to $2,937.30 an ounce, while futures fell 0.03% to $2,951.90.

The precious metal hit an all-time high of $2,954.69 on Thursday.

Tariff concerns

Trump said last week he would announce new tariffs within the next month or so, adding lumber to his previous plans to impose duties on autos, semiconductors and pharmaceuticals.

This comes on the heels of additional tariffs, including a 10% tax on Chinese imports and a 25% duty on steel and aluminum.

Investors are closely watching the path of interest rates in the United States, where Trump’s policies are seen as inflationary. Rising inflation could prompt the US Federal Reserve to keep interest rates high, reducing the appeal of gold as a non-yielding asset.

Markets are looking ahead to the Federal Reserve's preferred measure of inflation, the personal consumption expenditures index, due out on Friday, to determine the future direction of US monetary policy.    https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=52964

Stability Of Oil Prices In Global Markets

Economy | 05:05 - 02/24/2025   Mawazine News – Economy  Oil prices stabilized during the session, Monday, the beginning of trading in the week, as investors awaited any clarifications regarding the talks to end the war between Russia and Ukraine.

Brent crude futures rose 0.5 percent to $74.56 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude also rose by 0.014 percent to $70.51 a barrel.

Brent and US West Texas fell by more than $2 a barrel on Friday, with the former recording a weekly decline of 0.4 percent and the latter 0.5 percent.

All eyes remain on the talks to end the Russia-Ukraine war, which is entering its fourth year.

Sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union on Russian oil exports have limited its shipments and disrupted the flow of oil supplies transported by sea, and global energy supplies are expected to increase in the event of a peace agreement and the lifting of sanctions. https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=259822

Find Out The Dollar Prices In The Iraqi Markets At Closing

Economy | 05:54 - 02/24/2025   Mawazine News – Economy   The dollar prices against the Iraqi dinar witnessed a decline today, Monday, in the markets of the capital, Baghdad, and in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region, coinciding with the closing of the stock exchange.

The dollar prices decreased with the closing of the Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya stock exchanges to record 149,000 dinars for every 100 dollars, while the prices recorded this morning were 149,350 dinars for every 100 dollars.

As for the selling prices in exchange shops in the local markets in Baghdad, they stabilized, as the selling price reached 150,000 dinars for every 100 dollars, while the purchase price reached 148,000 dinars for every 100 dollars.

As for Erbil, the dollar also recorded a decline, as the selling price reached 149,050 dinars for every 100 dollars, and the purchase price was 148,950 dinars for every 100 dollars. https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=259824

For current and reliable Iraqi news please visit:  https://www.bondladyscorner.com/

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

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

BRICS: US DOLLAR FALLS FOR 3RD STRAIGHT WEEK FROM TRUMP TARIFFS

With a trade war brewing with the BRICS alliance, the US dollar has fallen for the 3rd straight week amid the ongoing Trump tariffs. Indeed, the country is beginning to see the effects of the ongoing import taxes as the currency struggled to end the week yet again.

All eyes are on how the global economy will react to the increased global tensions. Friday saw US President Donald Trump restate his threat towards the economic alliance. This time, he warned of 150% tariffs, as he further claimed that the bloc “broke up” amid the warning.

US Dollar Takes a Hit as Trump Tariff Hurts More Than Just BRICS

There have been growing concerns over US President Donald Trump’s economic policy. The aggressive nature of the plans has many worrying that it will only fast-track further de-dollarization. 

Indeed, what drove the nation to move away from the greenback, to begin with, was the weaponization of the global reserve asset. However, the current administration is seeking to do far worse than sanctions could.

Yet, it appears as though the continued threat of import taxes has begun to hinder the currency itself. Indeed, amid the BRICS opposition, the US dollar fell for the 3rd straight week amid the ongoing Trump tariffs, according to a Reuters report.

The fading value of the greenback has had an adverse reaction to the fast start of Trump’s second campaign. Specifically, his return to the Oval Office and the US dollar’s performance under his watch “has been mostly bluster on tariffs,” the report notes.

This is not a new phenomenon either. The greenback had been “struggling for traction in the past few weeks.” Moreover, in February alone, it has dropped more than 1.8%. Currently, the global reserve asset, is headed for its largest monthly drop since September.

The driving factor looks to be the ongoing tariff threat warnings. Although they have yet to be actualized, they are certainly taking their toll. With the US economy stagnating over geopolitical tensions, there is little interest for investors to increase dollar holdings, driving the fall.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Watcher Guru

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THE ‘BITCOIN’ SENATOR TO CHAIR FIRST DIGITAL ASSET HEARING WEDNESDAY

It has been a long journey for Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) as she champions Bitcoin and digital assets in Congress. Earning respect and acceptance both in the bitcoin community and the legislative arena takes time, but after four years, Lummis will finally assume the role of Chair of the newly established Digital Asset Subcommittee under the Senate Banking Committee.

This presents a historic opportunity as Congress moves toward passing comprehensive legislation on stablecoins and market structure, potentially within the next year.

However, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Lummis’ longtime co-sponsor on crypto legislation, does not serve on the Senate Banking Committee. Therefore, Lummis must garner support from Senate Democrats on the committee to advance bipartisan initiatives. 

Gillibrand, along with Lummis, has already co-sponsored Senator Bill Hagerty’s (R-TN) GENIUS Act, signaling her commitment to bridging political divides in the evolving regulatory landscape that would start with stablecoin legislation.

Witness Endorsement of an X Article “That Colossal Wreck”

Among the scheduled witnesses for the upcoming hearing is Jai Massari, Co-Founder and Chief Legal Officer of Lightspark. This past Friday, February 21, Massari endorsed an article on X calling for significant reform within the SEC that included calling out Democrats who previously led the SEC’s crypto regulation by enforcement efforts under the Biden Administration.

Austin Campbell, an Adjunct Professor at the NYU Stern School of Business, former and recently appointed as the CEO of WSPN, who has been a frequent witness in Congress and thought leader on crypto policy, with a tradfi background from Chase, Stone Ridge and JP Morgan Chase, has been a vocal critic of the SEC’s regulatory approach under the Biden Administration.

In his article mentioned above with respect to Massari’s endorsement, "That Colossal Wreck," Campbell revealed that a senior Democratic Party official had urged him to temper his rhetoric toward former SEC Chair Gary Gensler and others who were previously at the SEC. 

According to Campbell, he refused and then was inspired to lay out his vision of what he felt should happen to those who participated in the SEC over the last four years based on the damage caused by their policies.

"They should not be allowed to return to the government, allowed anywhere near the levers of power, and anyone in the Democratic party supporting, aiding, abetting, or directing them should be ejected immediately and roundly derided for this absolutely shameful chapter in US financial regulatory history," said Campbell.

Massari emphatically tweeted on X regarding Campbell’s article:

"This. All of this. Every word. @CampbellJAustin 🔥✅🏆 We must do better. Face the no good, very bad story and work to fix it. Caring about good government and institutions means taking a hard and clear-eyed look, particularly when it is not politically convenient."

While it is not yet known what Massari will testify on specifically as written testimony is not yet public, this message seems to underscore the need for cooperation and bipartisanship to forge meaningful and long-lasting crypto legislation in the U.S., regardless of the politics involved. 

Between what appears to be a softer tone on crypto in the Senate Banking Committee from Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and the drive by Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC) and the Republicans to pass stablecoin and possibly market structure legislation within the first 100 days of the Trump Administration, Massari and her other witnesses may spur on Congress toward historical, landmark laws for crypto in the U.S. that have been years in the making.

It is going to be a challenge for Lummis to make sure this new subcommittee can be effective. Her colleague across the aisle will be Ranking Member Ruben Gallego (D-AZ). 

Senator Gallego did vote last year when he was a Congressman for FIT21 in the House, as well as for the repeal of SAB 121, which according to industry ratings means he strongly supports crypto.

Details on the Witnesses and Hearing Information

Besides Massari, Mr. Jonathan Jachym, Deputy General Counsel and Global Head Of Policy & Government Relations for Kraken Digital Asset Exchange, will be testifying. Jachym just testified in the House. The third and final witness posted at this point is Mr. Lewis Cohen, Partner, Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP. 

Cohen is one of the leading “crypto native” lawyers in the United States and advises clients on complex legal and regulatory matters related to blockchain, cryptocurrency, and tokenization across global capital markets. a witness.

The hearing can be viewed via livestream starting on Wednesday, February 26 at 2:30pm ET and will take place in Dirksen Senate Office Building 538.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Forbes

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ROBINHOOD SAYS SEC DROPPED CRYPTO INVESTIGATION, IN LATEST WITHDRAWAL

Today Robinhood announced that Robinhood Crypto was notified by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that the SEC would not be taking enforcement action. This follows the SEC issuing a Wells Notice last year warning of impending legal action relating to crypto custody, cryptocurrency listings and platform operations.

Under acting SEC Chair Mark Uyeda, several crypto related cases have been dropped or paused. It recently dropped the investigation into NFT platform OpenSea and on Friday Coinbase said its SEC court case would end, subject to Commissioner approval. Earlier this month the SEC paused its case against Binance.

Plus it withdrew its appeal in its attempt to expand the definition of brokers to include liquidity providers.

Back to Robinhood, “We applaud the staff’s decision to close this investigation with no action,” said Dan Gallagher, Chief Legal, Compliance and Corporate Affairs Officer, Robinhood Markets, Inc.

 “Let me be crystal clear—this investigation never should have been opened. Robinhood Crypto always has and will always respect federal securities laws and never allowed transactions in securities.” Mr Gallagher is himself a former SEC Commissioner.

The announcement highlighted that Robinhood Crypto had been careful in its approach, only listing 18 cryptocurrencies after thorough due diligence, as opposed to the hundreds listed by other platforms.

@ Newshounds News™

Source: Ledger Insights

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US Government Won’t Say if Fort Knox Gold is Missing

US Government Won’t Say if Fort Knox Gold is Missing

Mark Moss:  2-24-2025

For generations, Fort Knox has been synonymous with American financial security. We’ve been told it houses roughly $250 billion worth of gold bullion, a bedrock of stability for the U.S. dollar. But what if that foundation is built on shaky ground? What if the gold everyone believes is there… isn’t?

This isn’t some far-fetched conspiracy theory being whispered in the dark corners of the internet. The unsettling truth is that no independent audit of Fort Knox’s gold reserves has been conducted in over half a century. 

Think about that for a moment. Fifty years without a comprehensive, transparent accounting of assets supposedly underpinning our entire financial system.

The U.S. government consistently refuses independent audits, fueling speculation and distrust. They could easily silence the doubters, quell the rumors, and reassure the public by simply opening the vault and allowing a thorough examination. Yet, they refuse.

The last time outsiders were granted access was arguably more of a carefully orchestrated PR event than a genuine inspection. Politicians posed for photo opportunities with gold bars, but there was no rigorous inventory. No weighing of the bars. No verification of serial numbers. Just a fleeting glimpse designed to project an image of security, without actually providing any concrete proof.

So, the burning question remains: Why won’t the government definitively prove the gold is there? And what happens if it’s not? The implications could be catastrophic, potentially triggering a financial crisis of unprecedented scale.

But even if the gold is actually there, it raises another, equally important question: is it the quantity and quality we’ve been led to believe?

The official explanations often revolve around security concerns and the cost of undertaking such a massive audit. However, these justifications ring hollow. Modern technology allows for sophisticated non-invasive testing and accounting methods that minimize security risks. As for the cost, wouldn’t guaranteeing the stability of the U.S. financial system warrant the expense?

History teaches us a vital lesson: when governments shroud their actions in secrecy, the people ultimately bear the consequences. The mystery of Fort Knox demands answers.

Until those answers are provided, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to safeguard your financial future. The time to prepare is now, before the truth – whatever it may be – is finally revealed.

Watch the video below from Mark Moss for further insights and information.

https://youtu.be/6NhJAsYEIys

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

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

GRAYSCALE'S XRP ETF UNDER SEC REVIEW—THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS

The SEC’s review of Grayscale’s XRP ETF is officially underway, sparking speculation that a crypto-friendly shift could lead to a groundbreaking approval.

SEC Begins Review of Grayscale’s XRP ETF Proposal

The Federal Register officially published Grayscale’s XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) proposal on Feb. 20, 2025, marking the beginning of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) review process. Fox Business journalist Eleanor Terrett highlighted the significance of this step on social media platform X, stating:

Grayscale’s XRP ETF (19b-4 filing) has officially been posted to the Federal Register. All this means is that the clock starts now for the SEC to engage and either approve or deny on or before October 18.

The SEC follows a structured timeline when reviewing ETF proposals under the 19b-4 process. Initially, the agency has 45 days from publication to make a decision or extend the review.

 If an extension is granted, the SEC can push the deadline to 90 days. The commission can further extend the timeline, with additional review periods of 45 and 60 days, bringing the latest possible deadline to Oct. 18, 2025.

During this time, the SEC will solicit public comments, analyze market impact, and assess compliance with regulatory requirements. Approval could come at any stage, but historically, the SEC has taken the full timeline before issuing a final decision.

The filing, submitted by NYSE Arca, seeks to list and trade shares of the Grayscale XRP Trust under Rule 8.201-E, which governs commodity-based trust shares.

The securities regulator has already approved spot bitcoin ETFs and spot ether ETFs, paving the way for broader cryptocurrency investment products.

The departure of former SEC Chair Gary Gensler has further altered the agency’s stance, with his successor taking a more crypto-friendly approach. Under the new leadership, the SEC has paused or dropped multiple lawsuits against crypto firms, fueling speculation that Ripple’s ongoing legal battle could be the next case to be dismissed.

This change in regulatory climate has increased optimism that the XRP ETF may have a smoother path to approval compared to earlier crypto ETF applications.

With the publication in the Federal Register, the SEC will now open a public comment period before making a final decision on the Grayscale XRP ETF.

If approved, the fund would allow investors to trade the XRP ETF shares on a regulated exchange, potentially increasing market liquidity and accessibility for XRP. The crypto community is closely watching, as the SEC’s ruling could influence future cryptocurrency ETFs and broader digital asset adoption.

@ Newshounds News™

]Source:  Bitcoin News

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BRICS: US & RUSSIA TO ANNOUNCE “MAJOR ECONOMIC” PARTNERSHIP

Despite the growing tensions between both the BRICS economic alliance and the US, the Western power and Russia are reportedly nearing a “major economic” deal, according to US President Donald Trump. Indeed, Trump took to Truth Social to discuss ongoing negotiations with both Moscow and Ukraine to end the war amid its three-year anniversary.

In the post, Trump recalled a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that took place Monday.

 He noted that, amid hopes between the three of ending the war, he was nearing a signed “Critical Minerals and Rare Earth’s Deal” with Ukraine. Therefore, the President claims he is nearing a deal with both nations to end the ongoing military conflict.

US and Russia Nearing Economic Partnership as Trump Talks Negotiations to End Ukraine War

Since his November 2024 election win, Donald Trump has not been shy about his opposition to the BRICS bloc. Indeed, he has spoken about the imposition of 150% tariffs on the alliance as he seeks to protect the status of the US dollar globally. Yet, the United States commander-in-chief is reportedly nearing a massive deal with one of its most prominent nations.

Despite the growing BRICS tensions, the US and Russia are nearing a “major economic” partnership, according to US President Trump. In a post to Truth Social, he explained ongoing negotiations with both Moscow and Ukraine in his effort to end the war that he claimed would have never started if I was President.”

“I am in serious discussion with President Vladimir Putin of Russia concerning the ending of the war,” Trump said. Moreover, he also noted there will be “major Economic development transactions which will take place between the United States and Russia. Talks are proceeding very well,” he added.

The talks have been a byproduct of growing relations between the two countries. Just last week, Putin called for Russia to partner with Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Indeed, the world’s richest man has headed Trump’s DOGE commission and was key in his bid for reelection.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Watcher Guru

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US GOLD INFLUX: SWISS EXPORTS SURGE TO UNPRECEDENTED LEVELS

In January, Swiss gold exports to the U.S. reached a record high of 193 metric tons, driven by fears of potential tariffs. This surge, exceeding the total for 2024, was triggered by a premium on Comex gold futures, creating a profitable opportunity for traders to deliver gold to U.S. warehouses.

Due to differing bar sizes between London and New York, gold is typically refined in Switzerland before being shipped to the U.S. This influx contributed to a significant increase in gold held in Comex depositories and a near doubling of Switzerland’s total gold exports.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Bitcoin News

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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