Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Saturday Afternoon 9-21-24

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

US PAYING $1,157,762,000,000 IN INTEREST ON NATIONAL DEBT IN ONE YEAR, SAYS TREASURY DEPARTMENT, AS ELON MUSK WARNS GOVERNMENT ‘WHISTLING PAST THE GRAVEYARD’

The US Treasury Department says it expects to pay a whopping $1.157762 trillion in interest on the national debt for the fiscal year 2024.

The interest represents the cost of borrowing money, which the government does by issuing Treasury bonds, bills and other securities.

Interest payments have already totaled $1.05 trillion as of August, and the remaining payments will be added in by the end of the month as the fiscal year comes to a close.

The Treasury Department says interest on the debt is expected to be the country’s third-largest expense this fiscal year just behind the Department of Health and Human Services (Medicare and Medicaid) and Social Security Administration at $1.727 trillion and $1.520 trillion, respectively.

The updated numbers come as billionaire Elon Musk issues a warning on the growing deficit and debt, which has now reached $35.3276 trillion.

In a panel interview at the All-In Summit 2024, Musk said he believes the government is projecting confidence while in a dire situation.

“Everyone seems to be sort of whistling past the graveyard on this one… The Defense Department budget is a very big budget. It’s a trillion dollars a year – DoD (Department of Defense), intel – it’s a trillion dollars. And interest payments on the national debt just exceeded the Defense Department budget. They’re over a trillion dollars a year just in interest and rising.  

We’re adding a trillion dollars to our debt, which our kids and grandkids are going to have to pay somehow, every three months. Soon it’s going to be every two months and then every month.

And then the only thing that we’ll be able to pay is interest.”

The national debt jumped by about $1.337 trillion from January 1st until now.

This means the debt has actually increased by around $445.67 billion every three months on average.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  DailyHodl

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SEC GREENLIGHTS OPTIONS TRADING FOR BLACKROCK’S ISHARES BITCOIN TRUST

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission granted approval for Nasdaq to list and trade options on BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust.

Per the details shared in the official filing on Sept. 20, the SEC’s approval comes after a lengthy review process that started on Jan. 9, 2024. That was when Nasdaq initially filed the proposal to trade options on exchange-traded products.

Nasdaq consistently followed up on its proposal with multiple amendments, which began on Jan 11. Over the following months, the exchange submitted additional amendments and information regarding IBIT and other Bitcoin-based ETPs.

SEC’s approval involved multiple stages of review
After almost eight months of review, the SEC finally gave the greenlight for Nasdaq’s proposal. The commission stated that the exchange even proposed to modify its rules to list and trade options on IBIT.

According to the official filing, options on IBIT will be physically settled with American-style exercise. Nasdaq also highlighted that IBIT options will be under the exchange’s continued listing standards.

“Options on IBIT will be subject to the Exchange rules that currently apply to the listing and trading of all ETF options on the Exchange,” the filing reads.

Crypto analysts say decision is bullish
Reacting to the SEC’s decision, several key crypto traders and analysts took to X to share their opinion. Crypto trader Ash Crypto tweeted that this is ultra bullish.

Senior ETF analyst Eric Balchunas also shared details of the approval on X. Balchunas tweeted his assumption that others will be approved in short order.

Balchunas also pinpointed this as a huge win for the Bitcoin ETFs, stating that this will attract more liquidity. However, he highlighted the fact that this is “just one stage of approval.”

The proposal still needs approval from the OCC and CFTC before the official listing.

“I’m assuming others will be approved in short order,” Balchunas added, calling it a “huge win” for Bitcoin ETFs “as it will attract more liquidity which will in turn attract more big fish.”

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Crypto News

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TRUMP DEBUTS EXCLUSIVE SILVER COIN—DESIGNED BY TRUMP, MINTED IN AMERICA

Trump's new silver coin is not an investment tool.

Key Takeaways

▪️The Trump commemorative coin is designed by Donald Trump and is not intended for investment purposes.

▪️The coin features high-quality silver with a proof finish and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

Former US President Donald Trump has announced the launch of his first officially authorized commemorative silver coin, named “TRUMP COINS.” Priced at $100, the coin is designed by Trump himself and is minted in the US.

The item features 99.9% purity and a proof finish, marking it as the highest standard in collectible medals. It showcases a portrait of Trump on the front and the White House on the reverse. Each piece is encased in a premium custom felt pouch and includes a certificate of authenticity.

“This is a 1oz .999% silver medallion and struck with a proof finish featuring our 45th President’s profile on the obverse and the White House on the reverse,” as described on the initiative’s official website.  RealTrumpCoins . com

The coin will be available for purchase starting September 25 and is not intended as a legal tender or an investment tool.

“The coins are intended as collectible items for individual enjoyment only, and not for investment purposes. The coins are not political and have nothing to do with any political campaign,” as noted in the descriptions.

Enthusiasts can join the waitlist to purchase this exclusive item at the project’s official website.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:   Crypto Briefing

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RIPPLE NEWS: CEO BRAD GARLINGHOUSE ISSUES GRAVE WARNING TO XRP USERS AMID GROWING SCAMS

India’s Supreme Court YouTube channel was hacked on Friday, causing a disruption in its usual livestream of court hearings. Instead of showing the constitutional bench proceedings, the channel showed videos promoting XRP, a cryptocurrency developed by Ripple Labs.

One specific video was titled “Brad Garlinghouse Ripple Responds to SEC’s $2 Billion Fine,” but it only featured a blank screen. This comes as the FBI recently reported that Americans lost approximately $5.6 billion to cryptocurrency scams in 2023.

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse immediately took to his X handle and reacted to the news. The CEO expressed disappointment and wrote, Unfort this feels like my annual PSA (and yes, I sound like a broken record): @Ripple and execs will NEVER ask you to send us XRP.

 It’s pathetic to see scammers prey on & exploit innocent crypto users, and the ease at which social media platforms allow it to happen. Stop, spot, avoid – protect yourself.”

Ripple took legal measures to address the increasing number of scams. In April 2020, Ripple filed a lawsuit against YouTube, claiming the platform did not do enough to stop fraudulent cryptocurrency promotions.  The case was settled in 2021, but Garlinghouse has remained an advocate for stronger safeguards on social media platforms.

This incident marks the first time the court’s YouTube channel, active since 2018 for broadcasting key hearings, has been compromised. The channel has played a crucial role in live-streaming important cases.

Following the breach, the Supreme Court administration has launched a formal investigation. As a precaution, the YouTube channel was disabled to prevent further unauthorized access and the potential spread of misinformation.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Coinpedia

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⚡️BREAKING NEWS:BILLION DOLLAR BANK BNY SET TO CUSTODY BITCOIN (BTC) THE FIRST BANK IN U.S. HISTORY  |  Youtube

@ Newshounds News™

Source: Seeds of Wisdom Team Currency Facts  

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Some “BRICS News” Saturday 9-21-2024

BRICS Intra-bank System Shocked the World Bank: Is It the End of Dollar?

Fastepo:  9-20-2024

In recent weeks, BRICS has made considerable strides, underlining its expanding influence on the global stage in both financial systems and its growing membership.

This video delves into the latest key developments within the BRICS bloc, from the launch of a new intra-bank settlement system to streamline cross-border transactions, to the surge in trade volumes among member nations.

We also discuss the growing number of countries applying for membership, reflecting BRICS' rising appeal as a counterbalance to Western-led economic institutions.

One of the significant updates involves the formal integration of Algeria into the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB). Algeria's membership reflects BRICS' ongoing effort to strengthen its financial institutions and provide alternatives to Western-dominated bodies like the IMF and World Bank.

 This move also aligns with BRICS' broader aim of diversifying economic partnerships and reducing dependency on the U.S. dollar.

 Another major news about BRICS is the Launch of Intrabank system.

Russia and Iran have significantly deepened their economic ties by linking their national payment systems—Russia's SPFS (System for Transfer of Financial Messages) and Iran's SEPAM (System for Electronic Payment Messaging).

 This integration allows the two nations to conduct financial transactions in their own currencies, the ruble and rial, bypassing the U.S. dollar and the SWIFT network. This shift is part of a broader effort to enhance economic sovereignty and circumvent Western sanctions, which have heavily restricted both countries' access to international financial systems.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3Mguzk55hU

BRICS Confirms 159 Participants Will Adopt New Payment System

Afro Page:  9-21-2024

Breaking news: BRICS has officially confirmed that 159 countries will be adopting a new global payment system, revolutionizing international finance! In this video, we dive into how this new system aims to reduce reliance on traditional currencies like the US dollar, strengthen economic ties among BRICS nations, and reshape the global economy.

 Learn what this means for international trade, the financial market, and how it could impact the future of global transactions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngJsa7FUpME

Al-Alaq: We are constantly reviewing the deletion of zeros from the dinar, and there are no restrictions on our balances in America

KTFA

Clare:  Al-Alaq: We are constantly reviewing the deletion of zeros from the dinar, and there are no restrictions on our balances in America

9/21/2024Baghdad

 The Central Bank of Iraq has reduced reliance on the US dollar in commercial transactions, according to the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, adding that the project to remove zeros in Iraq is under continuous review and study at the bank.

Countries remove zeros from their currency to revalue their national currency and simplify financial transactions. This is done by removing a specific number of zeros from the nominal value of the currency, making it appear less inflationary and more stable.

Al-Alaq confirmed, in an extensive interview with Al Jazeera Net, which was reviewed by "Al-Eqtisad News", that the Central Bank responded to global economic challenges, such as rising energy and raw material prices, by amending some monetary policies in line with the international situation and to enhance confidence in the Iraqi dinar and prevent a sharp decline in its value.

He also stressed that the Central Bank of Iraq increased its holdings of foreign exchange and gold reserves to strengthen the country's financial position and financial stability in order to enhance its ability to confront potential economic crises. These are the details of the dialogue:

What steps have you taken to address the crisis of the dollar’s ​​rise against the Iraqi dinar and reduce the gap between the official price and the black market price?

The Central Bank of Iraq has created new mechanisms to cover the accounts of local banks with their senders in other currencies (Chinese yuan, Indian rupee, euro and UAE dirham) in addition to the dollar, which has reduced reliance on the US currency in commercial transactions for the clients of these banks, as the Central Bank seeks to withdraw excess liquidity in the economy that puts pressure on the exchange rate and to prevent the exported currency from growing in an undesirable manner.

What is the status of the country's foreign reserves?

Foreign exchange reserves are the tool used by all central banks to maintain the stability of the local currency exchange rate against foreign currencies, as well as to reduce exposure to external crises by maintaining liquidity in foreign currency to absorb shocks in times of crisis.

The Central Bank of Iraq has a level of reserves that enables it to achieve this stability and provides it with sufficient flexibility to meet the demand for foreign currencies to meet the requirements of the balance of payments and other obligations.

According to the latest data on the level of foreign reserves adequacy, the foreign reserves of the Central Bank of Iraq cover 83.62% of the broad money supply, i.e. covering the cost of importing 15 months, while the global standard rate is 20%, covering 6 months of importing.

However, foreign reserves management faces global and local challenges according to the economic nature of each country and the economic and geopolitical conditions it is going through.

What are the most prominent contributions of the Central Bank of Iraq in supporting the Iraqi economy?

The Central Bank responded to global economic challenges, such as rising energy and raw material prices, by adjusting some monetary policies in line with the international situation and to enhance confidence in the Iraqi dinar and prevent a sharp decline in its value. The Central Bank raised interest rates to counter inflationary pressures resulting from changes in global prices and domestic demand, and issued new instructions to Iraqi banks to control cash liquidity.

The Central Bank of Iraq has increased its holdings of foreign exchange reserves and gold to strengthen the country's financial position and financial stability.

The bank also launched programs and initiatives aimed at increasing financial inclusion, including enhancing the spread of digital banks and online financial services, in addition to the Central Bank of Iraq’s contribution to sustainable development.
It also played an important role in financing economic and development projects by providing soft loans and special financing programs aimed at supporting productive sectors while continuing to finance small and medium enterprises.

Has the banking sector in Iraq been affected by US sanctions imposed on some banks?

The sanctions imposed on banks are related to the decision to ban dealing in dollars, as the banks were not included in the sanctions list issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, and therefore the banks’ activities continue, according to the applicable procedures and in all currencies except the dollar.

As for the situation of the Iraqi banking sector, it is experiencing a state of stability, as government banks still control approximately 79% of the total assets of the banking sector, compared to 21% for private banks.

Are there any restrictions on the bank's use of its funds in the United States?

There are no restrictions on our US accounts, taking into account the application of international standards to combat money laundering and terrorist financing in foreign transfers.

What are the reasons for the low rate of bank card usage in Iraq compared to neighboring countries? What are your steps to overcome this situation?

There are major reasons behind the low use of bank cards in Iraq, most notably the preference of many Iraqis to use cash in their daily transactions due to prevailing customs and traditions, in addition to the limited spread of banking services, as a large percentage of the population, especially in rural areas, remains unconnected to banks.

Finally, lack of financial awareness plays a major role in the reluctance to use bank cards.

To address these challenges, we are working to improve and expand our digital infrastructure. In this context, the Central Bank of Iraq has initiated the establishment of a national electronic payment company to encourage the banking and non-banking sectors and public institutions to develop this infrastructure.

The Central Bank, in cooperation with public and private institutions, is organizing awareness campaigns aimed at increasing public knowledge of the benefits of using bank cards and electronic payment methods to enhance confidence in the banking system.

The number of bank cards in 2023 will rise to 19.75 million cards and the number of bank accounts will rise to 13.3 million accounts.

The bank focuses on improving security and increasing transparency, and has created a platform to manage public complaints related to the financial sector, which helps in developing strategies to address any issues facing financial institutions.

It works to encourage financial innovation by supporting the development of services such as electronic wallets, banking applications, and opening digital banks. It is also currently working to launch a national financial inclusion strategy that includes solutions to most of these challenges, in addition to financial awareness programs targeting various segments of Iraqi society.

All of this resulted in both the number of bank cards in 2023 rising to 19.75 million cards and the number of bank accounts rising to 13.3 million accounts.

Where has the digital banking project come from?

The Central Bank of Iraq issued licensing controls for digital banks in Iraq during May of this year, and is in the process of studying the applications submitted in light of the requirements for digital banks, taking into account the risks and limitations related to digital banks, especially with regard to cybersecurity risks.

The main objective of licensing digital banks is to keep pace with developments in the banking environment, as well as to provide diversity in the provision of banking services in light of technological progress that contributes to enhancing financial inclusion by facilitating customers’ access to banking services.

In light of the International Monetary Fund's statement that internal imbalances in Iraq have worsened due to the large financial expansion and the decline in oil... How do you view its demands to correct the financial situation?

Naturally, the country’s dependence on rentier resources leads to bearing the costs of external shocks that are beyond its control, such as negative oil price shocks, and because the country needs more spending than any stable country due to the conditions it has gone through during decades of wars and destruction, which requires increasing spending on infrastructure, which is the basic pillar of the shift towards economic diversification.

All of this has led to pressure on the capabilities of public finance, especially the revenue side, and thus resorting to borrowing. Therefore, we agree with the International Monetary Fund regarding reforming the public finance situation, and the positive effects this has on supporting the independence of monetary policy in achieving its primary goal, which is the stability of the general price level through controlling liquidity levels.

We agree with the International Monetary Fund regarding the reform of public finances, and the positive effects this has on supporting the independence of monetary policy.

Will removing zeros from the dinar destabilize the financial situation in Iraq?

The process of removing zeros from a currency means replacing the old currency with a new one in order to simplify the accounting process between consumers. It is often resorted to by countries that suffer from high inflation and have become unable to deal with paper currencies of very low value.

Many believe that the process of deleting zeros is an economic and monetary reform process and is resorted to in cases of high inflation and currency collapse, which reduces the feeling of economic collapse (a monetary illusion process). However, if this process is not supported by real economic factors and accompanied by radical reforms, it becomes negative.

The project to remove zeros in Iraq is under continuous review and study at the Central Bank of Iraq, taking into consideration the existence of a volume of issued currency that exceeded 100 trillion dinars after it was 6 trillion in 2004, the year following the exchange of the currency that was undesirable and of poor quality.

In addition to a wide cash supply approaching 179 trillion dinars, which requires specialized cadres, especially in the bookkeeping process, which government banks are still suffering from due to the circumstances the country has gone through.

How will Iraq's repayment of all its debts to the International Monetary Fund affect the country's economic situation as a whole?

Iraq’s repayment of all its debts to the International Monetary Fund, accumulated over the years as a result of the Fund’s loan programs to address the economic challenges that Iraq faced in previous years, could have a positive impact in the long term by enhancing credit and improving financial sustainability, in addition to its repercussions on the country’s economic situation through:

Improve Iraq's economic confidence and credit rating and obtain financing on better terms in the future.

Enhancing the confidence of foreign and local investors in the Iraqi government’s ability to meet its financial obligations.

Achieving greater independence for Iraqi economic sovereignty, making the country less vulnerable to external pressures and interference in its economic policies.

Alleviating financial pressures and reducing financial burdens, which reduces pressure on the general budget.

Directing financial resources towards infrastructure and economic development projects and improving the ability to finance development projects.

Reducing pressure on foreign reserves, which has a positive impact on the stability of the currency and the country’s ability to cover its imports and maintain financial and economic stability.

Where have the Central Bank of Iraq's procedures for localizing salaries of employees in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq reached?

We would like to point out that this bank has taken the necessary measures to complete the process of localizing salaries of employees of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq in terms of providing the Federal Court with a list of banks licensed by this bank and operating in the region, and providing the infrastructure and electronic payment systems that support the processes of localizing salaries in the region, which clarifies the controls for opening a bank account and adopting an electronic signature for the same purpose.  LINK

Iraq News Highlights and Points To Ponder Saturday Afternoon 9-21-24

Government Confirms Its Adoption Of A "Constructive Economic Policy"

Time: 2024/09/20 Read: 1,820 times    {Politics: Al Furat News} Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani met today, Friday, with the head of the Victory Coalition, Haider Al-Abadi, where the meeting witnessed discussions on a number of issues and files related to the work of the legislative and executive authorities.  The two sides reviewed "ways to enhance cooperation and accelerate the basic requirements for implementing the government program in various fields."

During the meeting, Al-Sudani stressed that the government is adopting a constructive economic policy, improving the level of services that citizens receive from state agencies, alleviating their suffering, and completing the infrastructure that will provide an additional boost to development projects at various levels.   LINK

Oil And Gas Parliamentary: There Is A Major Failure In The Work Of The Internal Control Department At The Ministry Of Oil

Politics, Security and Economy   September 20, 2024  The Parliamentary Oil and Gas Committee identified a major failure and a number of observations regarding the work of the Director of the Internal Control Department at the Ministry of Oil.

The committee’s spokesman, Ali Shaddad, told Al-Mirbad that his committee hosted the director of the Internal Control Department at the Ministry of Oil, and after directing a number of questions to him, it became clear that there were many delays in the work of the department, and it had become one of the departments that repelled cadres specialized in internal control, despite the fact that they were cadres who had undergone important training and were linked to financial control.

However, there were 35 employees who left the Internal Control Department during the current director’s tenure, and it is not easy to dispense with them.

Shaddad added that a number of questions were put to the director regarding suspicions of corruption in some contracts that were flagged by the Federal Financial Supervision Bureau, in addition to the failure of the Director of Special Supervision to adhere to the directives of the Minister of Oil, so the work in the department began to decline despite the importance of its work.

Pointing out that the Parliamentary Oil Committee decided that this hosting would be open until the next session, which will be determined later by the Oil and Gas Committee. https://www.al-mirbad.com/detail/167165#hathalyoum

It Is Due To Iran And Russia.. Iraq And Saudi Arabia Have Fallen From The Top Oil Exporters To China

2024-09-21 03:34  Shafaq News/ The "Iraq Al-Mustaqbal" Foundation for Economic Studies and Consultations attributed, on Saturday, the reason for the decline of both Iraq and Saudi Arabia from the ranks of the largest oil exporters to China to the incentives provided by the Russians and Iranians to increase the purchase of their raw materials.

The institution stated in a report published today that Russia acquired 22% of China's oil imports in August 2024, at prices less than 6% of the average purchase prices.

He added that the Iranians, through Malaysia, acquired 17% of China's oil imports and less than 10% of the average price, which pushed both Iraq and Saudi Arabia to fall from the position of the largest exporters of crude oil to China, which is the largest market.

According to the institution's report, during last July, the average price of Russian oil was less than 4% of the average price, while the average price of Iranian oil was less than 7.5%, meaning that both parties increased their incentives to China to continue China's dependence on the oil of the two countries, even if at prices lower than the offered rates.

The institution attached to its report a detailed table on oil sales to countries that deal with China, as listed below:  LINK

Escalating Demands To Expose Corruption In Iraqi Ports: A Threat To The National Economy

Posted On 2024-09-21 By Sotaliraq  The Iraqi arena is witnessing increasing demands to uncover corruption files in Iraqi ports, as these ports are among the most important vital facilities for the Iraqi economy.

Suspicions have increased about financial and administrative irregularities in import and export operations, which have negatively affected government revenues.

Political and parliamentary parties are demanding transparent investigations to uncover those involved and hold them accountable, considering that corruption in these institutions contributes to the deterioration of the economic situation and hinders development and reform plans.

This comes at a time when Iraq is seeking to strengthen financial oversight and achieve transparency in government institutions.

Independent MP Yasser Al-Hussaini says, “The most dangerous corruption file in the Iraqi government is the file of the General Company for Iraqi Ports, where there is a waste of money and a lack of engagement with the voices calling for stopping this corruption.”

He added, "The government has ignored the ports corruption file, although the ministerial program stipulates combating corruption, as there are corruption files that will not be investigated even with the end of the current government's term, especially in the General Ports Company."

Al-Hussaini calls on the government to “pay attention to the voices calling for withdrawing the current management of the aforementioned company, and to open a fair judicial investigation to look into the number of identified violations.”

For his part, the head of the Parliamentary Security and Defense Committee, Karim Aliwi Al-Muhammadawi, revealed suspicions of corruption in the manipulation of types of cars and customs clearance at ports and border crossings.

Al-Muhammadawi says, “There is a lack of oversight operations and a lack of coordination between the security and oversight agencies within the Iraqi ports and border crossings, as the competent oversight agencies are required to play their role in reducing suspicions of corruption and preserving public money.”

In this context, MP Alaa Al-Haidari, a member of the Iraqi Ports Corruption Investigation Committee, said: “We were surprised to find a shipment of about 20,000 tons of yellow corn that was rotten and spoiled inside a ship coming from Australia. There were approvals from some government agencies to unload this shipment, so we were surprised to find about 6,000 tons of yellow corn unloaded in the warehouses of a Turkish factory used to receive cooking oil in the port of Umm Qasr.”

He added: “We found that the contract included that the yellow corn coming from Australia was used for oil, and after it was spoiled, its quality was changed to animal feed because it was exposed to rot. After examining this material, it became clear that it was not suitable for animal feed, nor was it suitable as cooking oil.”

He explained: “The opinion of the Parliamentary Order 160 Committee to investigate port corruption was to reserve and inform the Director of the Southern Ports and the Customs Administration not to unload the remaining shipment from these warehouses,

but the information received indicates that approximately 14 thousand tons of this damaged shipment were unloaded from these warehouses,” stressing that “every party that gave approval to unload this shipment will bear responsibility for negligence, and an investigation will be opened into this dangerous file.”

It is noteworthy that the Ministry of Finance and the Customs Authority are seriously seeking to make new progress in implementing the “ASYCUDA” system in the Grand Welcome Square at Basra Ports in rapid procedures to generalize information technology and limit commercial transactions electronically as is happening in more than 80 countries around the world.

At the beginning of 2024, the Iraqi General Customs Authority announced that its revenues during the past year amounted to one trillion, 33 billion, 765 million, 697 thousand, 521 Iraqi dinars, an increase of 28 percent, compared to 2022, expressing its hope to maximize its revenues during 2024 after completing the implementation of electronic systems in all customs centers.  LINK

Is Next Phase of Global Monetary Reset Coming in October? What It Means for US Dollar

Is Next Phase of Global Monetary Reset Coming in October? What It Means for US Dollar

Kitco News: 9-21-2024

Michelle Makori, Lead Anchor and Editor-in-Chief at Kitco News, interviews Jon Forrest Little, Founder and Director of Content at Silver Academy, who breaks down the history of global reserve currency cycles. Little weighs in on the accelerating de-dollarization trend and warns that the next phase of the global monetary reset is fast approaching.

 He explains what to expect at the BRICS Plus annual summit taking place in Kazan, Russia, on October 22-24. Little also shares his insights on the gold-backed currency, known as the Unit, which the BRICS is reportedly said to announce at the summit.

He also explains the role of Project mBridge – the multi-CBDC global payment platform.

Little explores the likely U.S. pushback to the de-dollarization trend, the future of global reserve currencies, and the role gold plays.

Coming Up

00:56 Introduction: BRICS Plus Update

04:33 Historical Cycles: Currency Resets

09:27 The US Dollar's Dominance and Challenges

17:35 Central Banks' Gold Rush

22:22 BRICS' Gold-Backed Unit Currency

35:33 Project MBridge and BRICS Currency

37:43 Gold’s Role

41:03 Saudi Arabia and Why Its Role Is Important

 44:35 US Pushback Against De-dollarization

 50:44 Potential Gold Standard Revival

59:14 Future of Global Reserve Currencies

01:02:11 Gold Price Forecast

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3LvWVzW7Ck

“Tidbits From TNT” Saturday 9-21-2024

TNT:

Tishwash:  In the past 20 days, Iraq lost enough money to build a new power station or a luxury residential complex

About 20 days have passed since the start of the decline in oil prices, which has sparked fears about the size of the loss that Iraq, which is heavily dependent on oil, will incur , and the possibility of its impact on salaries.

 While assurances were issued that salaries would not be affected by this level of the current decline in oil prices, as salaries could be provided even if the price of oil reached $60 per barrel,IraqIt actually suffered a huge loss during September for two reasons compared to previous months.

And I did Alsumaria NewsReview of short and long term average prices for the past period and calculations to see how much you lost.Iraq Over the past few days.

It turned out that the prices of Iraqi oil during the fifth months until the end of the seventh were ranging at an average of between $88 and $79 per barrel as a minimum, which means that on average the price of a barrel of Iraqi oil can be considered to be $84 per barrel as a minimum, but in August the average price of a barrel became $75 per barrel.

Since the beginning of September until now, the average price of a barrel of Iraqi oil can be calculated at $70, which means that it has lost an average of $14 per barrel compared to the average price during the past months.

Accordingly, while issuingIraq3.3 million barrels in September according to the OPEC agreement, which means thatIraqHe lost about $925 million in the last 20 days alone.

At the same time, he wasIraqIssuedmoreFrom 3.4 million barrels in August and July, but in September its exports decreased to 3.3 million barrels, which is another matter that caused a loss for Iraq, in response to compensating for the surplus production.Iraq During the past months according to the OPEC agreement.

And by calculating the export loss of 100 thousand barrels per day, the loss will be Iraq Over the past 20 days, it has amounted to $140 million, in addition to the loss of $925 million from the decline in oil prices. This means that Iraq lost in 20 days more One billion dollars.

That's enough .The number billion dollar constructionPower station with capacity moreFrom 1500 MW, or construction Luxury residential complex as one of the projects Residential in Baghdad With a capacity of more than 60 thousand housing units with large tourist facilities.  link

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Tishwash:  Government advisor expects oil prices to rise to $90 by the end of the year

The financial advisor to the Prime Minister, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, expects oil prices to rise for the rest of this year 2024.

 Saleh told Al Furat News Agency that "the decisions to reduce OPEC+ countries' production quotas by 2.2 million barrels of crude oil per day are among the main factors in the current positive impact that has gradually led to an improvement in oil prices in the world after the wave of decline witnessed in the past weeks, which coincided with the wave of severe decline faced by global financial markets, in addition to the widespread concerns about global economic growth in general and the Chinese economy in particular."

He added, "Despite this, OPEC and OPEC+ in particular are still cautious in managing supply, as previous expectations of increased oil production on the one hand and the varying expectations regarding the growth of global demand for oil on the other hand have kept prices somewhat volatile."

“Currently, oil prices, especially Brent oil, are fluctuating today at around $74-75 per barrel for futures contracts, taking into account the importance of seasonal and market effects that have begun to maintain significant increases, although they are currently moderate, as the approach of winter can usually lead to a slight increase in global oil prices. This is due to the increase in demand for heating fuels such as natural gas and other heating fuels, especially in colder regions such as Europe and North America,” Saleh continued.

“As temperatures drop, households and industries demand more energy to keep warm, increasing consumption of oil-based products. Thus, as the Russian-Ukrainian war continues and winter sets in, energy markets are rightly expecting a rise in demand for energy (oil and gas in particular) and the possibility of upward price adjustments in the contractual months leading up to winter,” he noted.

“Starting from September 2024, as we mentioned earlier, the total production cuts implemented by OPEC+ countries will amount to about 2.2 million barrels per day. These cuts are part of a broader effort to stabilize global oil prices amid fluctuations in demand and market conditions, with Saudi Arabia contributing a significant cut of 1 million barrels per day, while other countries, notably Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Algeria, Kazakhstan and Oman, also implemented cuts ranging from 42,000 to 223,000 barrels per day, while Russia reduced its oil exports by 500,000 barrels per day, of crude oil and refined products,” the government advisor said.

“Based on the above, oil prices are expected to remain high for the rest of 2024, with many global oil forecasts indicating that the average price of Brent crude could range around $85 to $90 per barrel by the end of this year. Higher price levels will reflect the impact of supply cuts, which will help tighten global oil markets and eliminate any oil glut, even as demand remains somewhat weak due to the economic slowdown in some aspects of global growth, especially growth problems in the Chinese economy,” Saleh said.  link

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Tishwash:  Al-Sudani heads to New York to participate in UN General Assembly meetings

 Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani will head to New York tomorrow, Saturday, to participate in the meetings of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly .

Al-Sudani's media office said in a statement received by "Baghdad Today" that the latter "will leave tomorrow, Saturday, heading to New York, at the head of the official delegation participating in the meetings of the United Nations General Assembly in its seventy-ninth session ."

He added, "He will deliver Iraq's speech before the General Assembly, and he will also deliver a speech at the Future Summit, in which many heads of state and presidents will participate, and which is concerned with enhancing cooperation, facing challenges, and affirming commitments ."

He added, "Al-Sudani will hold a series of meetings and dialogues with a number of leaders and presidents of sisterly and friendly countries, and heads of participating delegations, in addition to meeting with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, and a number of officials of international and UN organizations and bodies link

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Tishwash: Series of explosions on the approaches to Ain al-Assad base, west of Anbar

Security sources revealed, today, Friday (September 20, 2024), that a series of explosions were heard on the approaches to Ain al-Assad base, west of Anbar.

A security source told Baghdad Today, "More than one explosion was heard on the approaches to Ain al-Assad base, west of Anbar, with American helicopters currently flying over the base."

He added, "The helicopters flew as part of the reconnaissance and security measures, and a state of alert was monitored on the towers surrounding the base, and security measures were strengthened."

In addition, another security source revealed to Baghdad Today that "the sounds of explosions heard near Ain al-Assad Air Base are due to training conducted by coalition forces at the base," noting that "the Ceram system was also used in these training."  link

Mot ... can ya sing um 

Mot:  Hurry!!! -- Hurry!! -- Summers Almost over... ooh Wheres Waldo???

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Saturday AM 9-21-24

Will Parliament Resort To The Courts To Dismiss Al-Alaq?

Politics |   Mawazine News – Baghdad  Member of the Parliamentary Integrity Committee, MP Hadi Al-Salami, revealed today, Friday, that the Governor of the Central Bank, Ali Al-Alaq, refused the request to host him in Parliament, while threatening to resort to the courts to file a complaint against the negligent.

Al-Salami said in a statement, "We previously approached the Parliament Presidency and approval was obtained to host the Governor of the Central Bank to direct a parliamentary question."

He added, "The Governor of the Central Bank refuses to attend, and we will resort to the competent courts to file a complaint against anyone proven to be negligent regarding the difference between the official and parallel dollar rates."

He explained that "the difference between the official and parallel rates reaches 35 million dollars per day."  https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=255176

Government Advisor Expects Oil Prices To Rise To $90 By The End Of The Year

Time: 2024/09/20 15:40:38 Reading: 767 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} The financial advisor to the Prime Minister, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, expects oil prices to rise for the rest of this year 2024.

Saleh told Al Furat News Agency that "the decisions to reduce OPEC+ countries' production quotas by 2.2 million barrels of crude oil per day are among the main factors in the current positive impact that has gradually led to an improvement in oil prices in the world after the wave of decline witnessed in the past weeks, which coincided with the wave of severe decline faced by global financial markets, in addition to the widespread concerns about global economic growth in general and the Chinese economy in particular."

He added, "Despite this, OPEC and OPEC+ in particular are still cautious in managing supply, as previous expectations of increased oil production on the one hand and the varying expectations regarding the growth of global demand for oil on the other hand have kept prices somewhat volatile."

“Currently, oil prices, especially Brent oil, are fluctuating today at around $74-75 per barrel for futures contracts, taking into account the importance of seasonal and market effects that have begun to maintain significant increases, although they are currently moderate, as the approach of winter can usually lead to a slight increase in global oil prices.

 This is due to the increase in demand for heating fuels such as natural gas and other heating fuels, especially in colder regions such as Europe and North America,” Saleh continued.

“As temperatures drop, households and industries demand more energy to keep warm, increasing consumption of oil-based products. Thus, as the Russian-Ukrainian war continues and winter sets in, energy markets are rightly expecting a rise in demand for energy (oil and gas in particular) and the possibility of upward price adjustments in the contractual months leading up to winter,” he noted.

“Starting from September 2024, as we mentioned earlier, the total production cuts implemented by OPEC+ countries will amount to about 2.2 million barrels per day.

These cuts are part of a broader effort to stabilize global oil prices amid fluctuations in demand and market conditions, with Saudi Arabia contributing a significant cut of 1 million barrels per day, while other countries, notably Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Algeria, Kazakhstan and Oman, also implemented cuts ranging from 42,000 to 223,000 barrels per day, while Russia reduced its oil exports by 500,000 barrels per day, of crude oil and refined products,” the government advisor said.

“Based on the above, oil prices are expected to remain high for the rest of 2024, with many global oil forecasts suggesting that the average price of Brent crude could range around $85 to $90 per barrel by the end of the year.

Higher price levels will reflect the impact of supply cuts, which will help tighten global oil markets and eliminate any oil glut, even as demand remains somewhat weak due to the economic slowdown in some aspects of global growth, especially growth problems in the Chinese economy,” Saleh said.  LINK

Germany: Iraq's Economy Is Showing Signs Of Improvement

Economy  Baghdad – INA  Director of the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) offices in Iraq, Christoph Feldkötter, confirmed  today, Thursday, that Iraq is making good progress towards economic stability, stressing the importance of updating tax laws in Iraq.

 "Iraq is making good progress towards stability, as economic stability is an essential part of this progress," Feldkötter told the Iraqi News Agency (INA), noting that

 "economic reforms include developing the private sector."

 "There are many new sectors that have emerged in Iraq, such as transportation, the shift to the

e-economy, renewable energy, and other fields that did not exist twenty years ago," Feldkötter explained. He stressed that

 "this development requires updating tax laws, as it is not possible to apply tax instructions or laws that are twenty or thirty years old." He pointed out that

"the existence of stable institutions is part of stability, which is what the German Agency is working to support through joint cooperation between experts from the Iraqi government and experts from the German government."

Feldkötter expressed the German government's "pride in this achievement, and its happiness with the partnership and mutual trust with the Iraqi government."    https://ina.iq/eng/34830-germany-iraqs-economy-is-showing-signs-of-improvement.html    

"A Great Iraqi Desire To Turn Into A Gas Exporter": Oil Ministry

 Economy  18-09-2024, 16:43  Baghdad – INA   The Ministry of Oil announced today, Wednesday, the referral of the flared gas file to projects under implementation, while

 indicating that during the next 5 years, Iraq will be self-sufficient and will be a source of gas, indicating the signing of the Mansouriya field, which will provide 300 million standard cubic feet of gas.

 The Deputy Minister of Oil for Extraction Affairs, Basem Mohammed Khudair, told the Iraqi News Agency (INA):

"This government, through the Ministry of Oil, has achieved a major change in the gas file, by referring all flared gas to projects under implementation to end this file."

He explained that   "we have a project of about 200 million standard cubic feet in Basra, the same in Nasiriyah, and 150 in the Nahr Bin Omar field, in addition to developing an integrated gas project and referring it to Total, which will collect gas from 5 important fields in the south, with a capacity of 600 million standard cubic feet in two phases, each phase 300 million." He added,

 "The Ministry of Oil, after great effort, succeeded in referring the Akkas field contract to the Ukrainian company, which will provide, after 6 years, a production capacity of up to 400 million standard cubic feet," explaining that

"the Mansouriya field was signed with initials and in the coming days the final letters will be signed, and

this field will provide 300 million standard cubic feet." He continued:

"This transition in the gas file and the referral of some gas fields in the annex of the fifth and sixth rounds will add significant production capacities to Iraq, and

 during the year 2028 or 2030, Iraq will be self-sufficient," stressing that "there is a great desire and insistence to transform Iraq into a gas exporting country."  https://ina.iq/eng/34799-a-great-iraqi-desire-to-turn-into-a-gas-exporter-oil-ministry.html

Guide To Environmental, Social And Corporate Governance Standards For Banks 2024
 
September 19, 2024    :diamonds: Guide to environmental, social, and corporate governance standards for banks 2024..For more, click here  https://cbi.iq/static/uploads/up/file-172674232676837.pdf
 
https://cbi.iq/news/view/2674  

[Google will translate https://cbi.iq/static/uploads/up/file-172674232676837.pdf
Sorry, I was not able to attach the translated document] 

Oil Heads For Weekly Gains After U.S. Rate Cut 

Friday 20 September 2024 09:40 | Economic Number of readings: 176  Baghdad / NINA / Although oil prices did not witness any significant change in early Asian trading on Friday, they are heading to end the week on a rise that will be the second in a row, after a large cut in US interest rates and a decline in global inventories.

By Friday morning, Brent crude futures fell 19 cents, or 0.3 percent, to $73.69 a barrel, but rose 4.3 percent since the beginning of the week.

US crude futures rose six cents to $72.01 a barrel, achieving gains during the week of 4.8 percent. "

The two benchmarks began to recover after falling to their lowest levels in nearly three years on September 10, and recorded gains in five of the seven sessions since then.

The Federal Reserve (the US central bank) cut interest rates by half a percentage point, and interest rate cuts usually lead to a boost in economic activity and energy demand, but some viewed the large cut as a sign of weakness in the US labor market. / End9 https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1156020

Oil Heads For Weekly Gains After U.S. Rate Cut

Friday 20 September 2024 09:40 | Economic Number of readings: 176

Baghdad / NINA / Although oil prices did not witness any significant change in early Asian trading on Friday, they are heading to end the week on a rise that will be the second in a row, after a large cut in US interest rates and a decline in global inventories.

By Friday morning, Brent crude futures fell 19 cents, or 0.3 percent, to $73.69 a barrel, but rose 4.3 percent since the beginning of the week.

US crude futures rose six cents to $72.01 a barrel, achieving gains during the week of 4.8 percent. "

The two benchmarks began to recover after falling to their lowest levels in nearly three years on September 10, and recorded gains in five of the seven sessions since then.

The Federal Reserve (the US central bank) cut interest rates by half a percentage point, and interest rate cuts usually lead to a boost in economic activity and energy demand, but some viewed the large cut as a sign of weakness in the US labor market. https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1156020

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Saturday Morning 9-21-24

Good morning Dinar Recaps,

BREAKING NEWS: BILLION-DOLLAR BANK BNY SET TO CUSTODY BITCOIN (BTC) AS THE FIRST BANK IN U.S. HISTORY

▪️BNY Mellon becomes the first bank with the SEC exemption from crypto accounting rules.

▪️SEC’s variance for BNY Mellon could open doors for more banks in crypto.

BNY Mellon has emerged as a pioneer in the cryptocurrency custody industry, becoming the first bank to be excluded from the SEC’s Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 121 (SAB 121). This significant development was announced during a public hearing in Wyoming’s Select Committee on Blockchain, Financial Technology, and Digital Innovation Technology.

SEC’s Landmark Exception: BNY Mellon Navigates SAB 121 with Ease
The SEC granted BNY Mellon a “variance” from the SAB 121 accounting requirements. This exception allows BNY Mellon to provide institutional crypto custody services, including Bitcoin, as part of its core business activities. Chris Land, general counsel for U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), testified:

“[BNY] is looking to get more involved in the crypto custody business. They had some problems with Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) 121, and the SEC has apparently given them some kind of variance from SAB 121 to move forward.”

This decision marks a watershed moment for the bank and the whole crypto industry, indicating a shift in regulatory views toward traditional financial institutions that engage in digital asset custody.

SAB 121, which has been the subject of discussion in the financial sector, requires banks that hold cryptocurrencies on behalf of clients to register these assets as liabilities on their balance sheets.

Many in the crypto sector regard this rule as cumbersome, as it adds significant financial risk to any institution that engages in crypto custody.

SEC’s Exemption Sparks New Opportunities for Traditional Banks in Crypto
BNY Mellon’s exemption from this legislation might be a game changer, opening the door for other traditional banks to enter the cryptocurrency industry.

This exemption not only represents a watershed moment for BNY Mellon, but it could also dramatically increase institutional participation in the crypto business, lowering entrance barriers for banks that have been cautious owing to regulatory concerns.

The decision may serve as a stimulus for greater acceptance of crypto services by large financial institutions, indicating a mature market in which digital assets are increasingly regarded as viable investment possibilities.

This is not BNY Mellon’s first foray into the crypto and blockchain industry. Last year, in a Swift-led project revealed by CNF, BNY Mellon and Deutsche Bank worked together on the interoperability of electronic Bills of Lading (eBL) on blockchain.

This program sought to improve commercial efficiency by incorporating blockchain technology into traditional financial systems.

Such agreements demonstrate BNY Mellon’s continuous commitment to using blockchain technology to improve financial processes, cementing the company’s position as a pioneer in integrating crypto and blockchain solutions into traditional banking.

While BNY Mellon is making progress in crypto custody, other industry titans are also strengthening their standing in the crypto area. For example, as we previously highlighted, MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin holdings currently total 252,220 BTC after a new 7,420 BTC purchase, confirming its position as a leader in institutional BTC investment.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Crypto News Flash

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BRICS NEWS:  After Oil, BRICS Accounts for 72% of the World’s Rare-Earth Metals

After the BRICS expansion in 2024, the alliance officially accounts for 42% of the global oil and gas reserves. If that wasn’t enough, BRICS now accounts for the majority of the rare-earth metals reserve totaling to 72%. This gives the alliance an added advantage in global trade in the oil and rare-earth metals sectors.

BRICS countries complement each other for the extraction of critical minerals and production. The cooperation could lead to mutual trade within BRICS members and ensure the continuity of the supply. The alliance can also decide on the stability of the prices and be ahead in decision-making.

Latest reports indicate that the alliance will discuss oil and rare-earth metals trade in the next BRICS summit. The geological trade deals could be rewritten giving the bloc an undue advantage in settling cross-border transactions. “Prospects for cooperation between the BRICS countries in the field of studying, developing and rational use of mineral resources,” is on the cards, read a report.

“One of the possible areas of cooperation in this sphere is to expand the mutual trade in mineral commodities and metals for the purpose of ensuring continuity of supplies and stability of prices,” said Evgeny Petrov, the Head of the Russian Federal Subsoil Resources Management Agency Rosnedra.

 He added, “The simple analysis shows that accession of new members to BRICS will provide for 72% of world resources of rare-earth metals.”

Also, if BRICS uses local currencies for rare minerals trade, the US will dollar will begin to face deficits.  The BRICS bloc is adding all commodities under its sleeves and could turn the alliance’s fortunes in the coming years.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Watcher Guru

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THIS IS A CALL NOT A VIDEO - Silver Jim 57 The Constitution 9 20 24 |  Youtube

Jim educates us on our history and the CONtracts that have been hidden from us to show how we got to where we are since the days of Lincoln and the Civil War.  A must to listen to.

@ Newshounds News™

Source: Seeds of Wisdom Team Currency Facts     

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RAFIDAIN BANK IS LEADING THE CHARGE INTO THE FUTURE! #Iraq #Banking |  Youtube 

@ Newshounds News™

Source: Seeds of Wisdom Team Currency Facts  

~~~~~~~~~

Newshound's Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's Podcast Link

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MilitiaMan: Iraq Dinar Update - #xrp ripple #iraq idinar - Iraq Budget Revenue Tables 2024 - Sensitivity - Art 140

Iraq Dinar Update - #xrp ripple #iraq idinar - Iraq Budget Revenue Tables 2024 - Sensitivity - Art 140

MilitiaMan and Crew:  9-20-2024

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

Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rf3kybJ6-lw

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Friday Afternoon 9-20-24

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

BRICS POWER SURGE SPARKS ECONOMIC WARNING FROM JPMORGAN CEO—CRYPTO SEEN AS A HEDGE

▪️Jamie Dimon warned about the rising government deficits, elevated public spending, and geopolitical challenges like the growing influence of the BRICS bloc.

▪️The JPMorgan CEO expressed concerns over the U.S. economy, highlighting the risks of stagflation—persistent high inflation alongside stagnant growth.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. CEO Jamie Dimon recently raised alarms about a potential economic crisis in the United States. 

He emphasizes the impact of rising inflation and geopolitical challenges as the BRICS bloc gains power. Speaking at the Council of Institutional Investors in New York this week, Dimon expressed concerns over the country’s economic outlook.

Dimon also hinted that the challenges could go far beyond a typical recession. On Wednesday, September 18, the Federal Reserve made its first interest rate cut in four years as inflation is inching closer to the Fed’s 2% target. Despite this reduction, Dimon cautioned that the economy remains on shaky ground.

Fed Rate Cuts Won’t Solve The Inherent Problems In US Economy
The decision to lower rates comes after interest rates had previously surged to a 23-year high, a measure taken by the central bank to curb inflation. However, many experts, including Dimon, worry that the country’s economy might not yet be in the clear.

One of Dimon’s primary concerns is the possibility of stagflation, wherein there is stagnant economic growth alongside high inflation. During the event in Brooklyn, Dimon said, “I would say the worst outcome is stagflation—recession, higher inflation. And by the way, I wouldn’t take it off the table.”

His remarks underscore the unease surrounding the U.S. economy, with inflation still out of control despite recent monetary policy changes. Dimon further highlighted that inflationary pressures could persist due to several key factors. On the other hand, the BRICS bloc poses different challenges while moving away from the USD.

These include rising government deficits and increased public spending, which could keep inflation elevated. Moreover, the high interest rates that persisted for years make it difficult to predict a swift recovery for the economy.

“They’re all inflationary, basically in the short run, the next couple of years,” Dimon said. He further added, “It’s hard to look at [it]and say, ‘Well, no, we’re out of the woods.’ I don’t think so.”

Recently, the world’s largest asset manager BlackRock stated that the spot Bitcoin ETF could be a good diversification tool amid the rising US debt, per the CNF report.

The BRICS Factor In-Play
Dimon’s warnings come at a time when the United States is facing growing competition on the global stage. The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) bloc has been pushing efforts to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar, commonly referred to as “de-dollarization,” as reported by Crypto News Flash.

This shift could weaken the dollar’s dominance in global markets.  Moreover, it could further strain the U.S. economy as the debt has risen to a whopping $35.27 trillion. In addition, the rise of blockchain-based financial solutions could pose an additional threat to the USD’s long-standing supremacy.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Crypto News Flash

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TURKISH BANKS WANT TO STOP TRANSACTIONS WITH RUSSIA, TRANSFER THEM TO ONE BANK — SOURCE

The issue reportedly concerns private and state-owned Turkish banks that do not have foreign partners, mainly Western ones

ANKARA, September 19. /TASS/. Almost all Turkish banks are virtually trying to stop servicing transactions related to Russia and transfer them to only one local financial institution, an informed source in the field of Turkish financial consulting told TASS.

"Based on the current situation, almost all Turkish banks virtually want to completely withdraw from transactions with Russia and Belarus. They would like to leave all these transactions to Emlak Katilim Bank in order to protect themselves from possible future problems in the form of restrictions and sanctions," the source said.

The issue concerns private and state-owned Turkish banks that do not have foreign partners, mainly Western ones. Financial institutions with Western participation have already effectively stopped servicing transactions related to Russia.

The source noted that "only Emlak Katilim Bank carries out trading transactions in the Russian ruble/Turkish lira pair".

Earlier, Russian Ambassador to Turkey Alexey Erkhov, commenting on the situation in the interbank sphere, told TASS that Turkish banks are increasingly "squeezing out companies" involved in the transit of goods to Russia, blocking their transfers and closing their accounts.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  TASS

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GOVERNMENT BITCOIN RANKINGS: SURPRISING PLAYERS EMERGE IN 2024

▪️The US leads global Bitcoin holdings with $12.16B, primarily from law enforcement seizures.
▪️Bhutan leverages BTC mining for income, holding $782.46M in cryptocurrency reserves.

Arkham Intelligence has published its newest government Bitcoin holdings leaderboard, which provides an intriguing view of global cryptocurrency strategy among nation-states. The United States leads the pack, with a stunning $12.16 billion in BTC.

This vast hoard, totaling around 203,239 BTC, is mostly the result of law enforcement seizures, most notably the Silk Road case. The US government’s approach to managing these assets is not static; regular transactions suggest active management with the goal of leveraging the portfolio.

This position, along with other digital assets such as Ethereum, demonstrates a diverse approach to optimizing returns from their cryptocurrency portfolio.

Also, the United Kingdom is second, with $3.67 billion worth of Bitcoin, or around 61,245 BTC. Unlike the United States, the UK government has taken a more passive approach to management. There have been no large cryptocurrency transactions in the recent few years, with the last substantial shift coming three years back.

This shows that the UK is more interested in holding its Bitcoin as a long-term investment than trading or diversifying into other digital assets.

Bhutan and El Salvador: Contrasting BTC Strategies with Global Impact
Bhutan’s ranking on the leaderboard is surprising and impressive. As we previously reported, with $782.46 million in Bitcoin, or 13,047 BTC, the little Himalayan country is the third-largest government BTC holder. Bhutan’s plan is unique in that it is actively involved in Bitcoin mining operations.

The cash earned by mining pools such as “Foundry USA Pool” and “Ant Pool” benefits the country’s economy, making cryptocurrencies an important component of Bhutan’s financial ecosystem.

Bhutan also holds smaller amounts of Ethereum, valued at roughly $1.51 million, as well as other altcoins, demonstrating a more diverse portfolio than El Salvador, which focuses only on Bitcoin.

Further, El Salvador, which is well-known for using Bitcoin as legal tender, is ranked fourth on the ranking. Its government has $351.75 million in Bitcoin, which equates to 5,877 BTC. Unlike other countries, El Salvador’s plan relies entirely around Bitcoin, which is consistent with the country’s overall economic policies.

The Salvadoran government carefully controls its Bitcoin holdings and conducts daily trades. Over the last year, its portfolio has fluctuated, but it has recently steadied at around $350 million. Despite the inherent dangers and volatility associated with Bitcoin, El Salvador remains completely committed to the cryptocurrency experiment.

One of the most notable adjustments in the rankings is Germany’s decline from possessing $3.56 billion in BTC to having none. This significant reduction in ownership indicates a total exodus from Bitcoin; however, the reasons for this shift remain unknown.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Crypto News Flash

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KOREA  PREPS TOKENIZED DEPOSIT, WCBDC PILOT WITH 100,000 USERS THIS YEAR

Today the Korea Times reported that 100,000 individuals will participate in large scale pilots of tokenized deposits later this year, citing sources.

However, it said the deposit tokens will be “akin to using vouchers”, consistent with previously announced plans. A year ago the Bank of Korea announced plans for a wholesale central bank digital currency (wCBDC) to support the interbank settlement of tokenized deposits from banks.

It subsequently said there would be trials involving up to 100,000 people starting in September or October this year.

In June, two government institutions announced funding for a voucher project being developed by the central bank where the deposit tokens can be used for welfare, culture, education and other services.

However, today’s report states the vouchers in the pilot will be used to buy goods at convenience stores.

Last year the Bank of Korea said the voucher trials, which sound similar to Singapores’s Purpose Bound Money concept, would have two parts. All banks will participate in one trial. Another test will allow banks more leeway in the programmability. 

The central bank said the Korea Financial Telecommunications and Clearings Institute will be the smart contract management agency.

So far six major commercial banks are involved, but there’s no final decision on which institutions will take part. NH NongHyup Bank was mentioned as one of the participants.

“While the timeline seems slightly delayed compared to our initial expectations, we are working to launch the CBDC test involving 100,000 participants using deposit tokens by the end of the year, which would be a globally significant milestone,” a banking industry official told Korea Times.

Korea’s cross border CBDC work
Meanwhile, the Bank of Korea is also involved in Project Agorá, the BIS cross border payment initiative to tokenize correspondent banking that involves seven central banks and 41 institutions.

 That initiative also involves six Korean banks, Hana Bank, Industrial Bank of Korea, KB Kookmin Bank, NongHyup Bank, Shinhan Bank and Woori Bank. Additionally, Korea is an observer of mBridge, the other BIS cross border payment initiative.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:   Ledger Insights

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What is Money Explained Simply!  Youtube

@ Newshounds News™

Source: Seeds of Wisdom Team Currency Facts    

~~~~~~~~~

Newshound's Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's Podcast Link

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

Q & A Classroom Link  

Follow the Roadmap

Follow the Timeline 

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Subscribe to Newsletter

Thank you Dinar Recaps

Some “Iraq News” Posted by Clare at KTFA 9-20-2024

KTFA

Clare:  Al-Sudani leaves for New York early next week to participate in the UN General Assembly meetings

9/19/2024

Government sources announced that Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani will leave for New York early next week to participate in the meetings of the United Nations General Assembly.

The sources stated that al-Sudani will head a high-level government delegation to New York
and will deliver Iraq's speech before the United Nations General Assembly.

Al-Sudani will also meet with world leaders on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly meeting.   LINK

Clare: Rafidain Bank announces the activation of the comprehensive banking system in 42 branches

9/20/2024  Baghdad - WAA

Rafidain Bank announced today, Friday, the activation of the comprehensive banking system in 42 of its branches spread across Baghdad and the governorates.

The bank said in a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), "The comprehensive banking system has been activated in 42 of its branches spread across Baghdad and the governorates  LINK

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Clare:  With the participation of Iraq.. An international conference discusses clean energy transformations and optimal gas investment

9/20/2024  Baghdad - WAA

The Ministry of Oil participated in the "2024 Gastech" exhibition and conference in the US state of Houston, while the conference discussed clean energy transformations and the uses of gas and nitrogen.

The Ministry of Oil stated in a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), that "the Ministry of Oil participated in the "2024 Gastech" exhibition and conference held in the US state of Houston."

The Undersecretary of the Ministry for Gas Affairs, Izzat Saber, who headed the ministry's participating delegation, said that "the exhibition and conference discussed the transition to clean energy and optimal investment in gas and the uses of gas and nitrogen." 

The Undersecretary met, according to the statement, "delegations of some companies participating in the exhibition, where he visited the Baker Hughes pavilion and the Shell pavilion."

It is noteworthy that the "2024 Gastech" exhibition and conference, which started on September 17 and will continue for four days, was attended by the US Deputy Secretary of State for Energy Affairs and the Ministers of Oil and Energy of Turkey, India, Libya, Mauritania, and international companies, experts and specialists in the field of energy.

The participating ministry delegation included the general managers of the Department of Studies, Planning and Follow-up, the South Gas Company, the North Gas Company, and representatives of the Basra Oil Company and the Government Media and Communication Office. LINK

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Clare:  Chairman of the Investment Authority: More than 100 opportunities are ready for contracting at the "Iraq Investment Forum"

9/20/2024

The National Investment Commission announced the imminent launch of the Iraq Forum 2-3 next November, which represents a positive reflection of the economic arena in Iraq, and expresses the efforts of the Commission and all supporting parties over a full year of diligent work to reach productive economic projects and activate social projects that serve the Iraqi citizen.

The head of the authority, Haider Makiya, said during a joint press conference with the Deputy Director of the Prime Minister's Office and Chairman of the Diwani Order Committee for the Forum, Ali Razouki, and the Chairman of the Iraqi Economic Council and member of the Diwani Order Committee, Ibrahim Al-Masoudi Al-Baghdadi, today, Thursday, that "more than 100 diverse opportunities in important strategic sectors with complete sectoral approvals and ready for contracting will be announced during the forum, and in what is known as the government effort represented by the Prime Minister's Office and the Iraqi Economic Council, in addition to the authority team and all the ministries and governorates supporting this great exceptional effort," calling on owners of capital, companies and investors to be actively present in this major international forum that will give them a wide opportunity to closely view these opportunities and answer all inquiries related to these projects.

For his part, Deputy Director of the Prime Minister's Office and Chairman of the Diwani Order Committee, Ali Razouki, said that "the success in attracting and attracting these companies represents a gain for all the sectoral parties contributing to the completion of these investment portfolios," noting that the forum's activities will coincide with the launch of the 48th Baghdad International Fair, which will allow these companies to attend the forum and learn about the available opportunities."

In turn, the Chairman of the Iraqi Economic Council, Ibrahim Al-Masoudi Al-Baghdadi, a member of the Diwani Order Committee, reviewed the investment opportunities that will be announced during the forum's activities, distributed over 7 sectors, namely (heavy and medium industries, agriculture and animal production, in addition to the tourism, housing, real estate development, energy, transportation and ports, and communications sectors), which he described as strategic opportunities, the first of their kind in Iraq and the region, as they are fully completed and express a real need in those sectors for capital and investing companies.  LINK