Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Thursday Evening 4-3-25

Al-Mashhadani And The US Chargé d'Affaires Affirm The Importance Of Strengthening And Developing Bilateral Relations

Thursday, April 3, 2025| Politics Number of readings: 110  Baghdad / NINA / Speaker of Parliament Dr. Mahmoud Al-Mashhadani and the Chargé d'Affaires of the United States Ambassador to Iraq Daniel Rubinstein stressed the importance of strengthening and developing bilateral relations.

A statement by Al-Mashhadani's media office said that the Speaker of Parliament received today the Chargé d'Affaires of the United States Ambassador to Iraq Daniel Rubinstein, who extended his congratulations to the Speaker of Parliament on the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr, wishing well for Muslims and Iraq on this occasion.

According to the statement, the meeting dealt with emphasizing ways to strengthen and develop bilateral relations between the two countries in the political and economic files and developing investment to serve the interests of the two countries.

The meeting also discussed the security situation and the importance of stability in Iraq, and its reflection on the upcoming parliamentary elections, which the political blocs are preparing to participate in. /End   https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1195487

The Yellow Metal Soars And Renews Its All-Time High

Money and Business   Economy News - Follow-up   The price of gold futures for June 2025 delivery on the Comex (a division of the New York Mercantile Exchange) hit an all-time high on April 2, 2025.

Data available from the trading platform indicates that the price of an ounce of gold has risen above $3,200.

By 23:29 Moscow time on April 2, the price of gold had risen 1.12% to $3,201.6 per ounce. By 07:00 Moscow time on April 3, the price of gold had slowed to $3,171.5 per ounce (up 0.02%).

Gold prices, a precious metal long considered a safe haven during times of economic and geopolitical instability, continue their steady upward trend, reaching new highs in the markets.

Meanwhile, the price of Brent crude futures for June 2025 delivery on the London ICE Futures Exchange fell 0.12% to $73.28 per barrel. The price of West Texas Intermediate crude futures for May 2025 delivery fell 0.06% to $70.03 per barrel.   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=54048

World Gold Council: 29% of central banks plan to purchase gold by 2025
 
Economy     gold     buying     countries  2025-04-01 00:20  Shafaq News/ The World Gold Council confirmed on Tuesday that 29% of countries' central banks intend to purchase the precious metal in 2025. The council said in a report seen by Shafaq News Agency that
 
"29% of countries' central banks intend to purchase gold during the current year," noting that
 
"the purchases are due to the 
 
     desire to restore balance to a more strategic level in these reserves, 

     financial market concerns,
 
as well as the
 
     increased risks of crises and
 
     rising inflation." He added that
 
"gold continues to attract the attention of central banks as a reserve asset," noting that
 
"increasingly complex geopolitical and financial factors make managing gold reserves more important than ever."

He pointed out that  "central banks added

     1,037 tons of gold in 2023, the second-highest annual purchases in history, after setting a record of

     1,082 tons in 2022."
 
Iraq has gold reserves of 162.7 tons,
 
ranking 28th among countries with the highest reserves of the precious metal.  
  
https://shafaq.com/ar/اقتصـاد/المجلس-العالمي-29-من-البنوك-المركزية-للدول-تعتزم-شرا-الذهب-العام-2025 

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

We’re Witnessing the Collapse of a Fake Financial System | Ron Paul

We’re Witnessing the Collapse of a Fake Financial System | Ron Paul

Kitco News:  4-3-2025

NOTE TO OUR VIEWERS: We’re aware that Dr. Ron Paul’s internet connection during this interview was less than ideal. While we made every effort to improve the signal during recording, we believe the message and content of this conversation is too important not to share.

We appreciate your understanding and thank you for watching.

Gold just broke above $3,100 an ounce — its strongest quarter since 1986. Fort Knox audit calls are trending. Inflation continues to hit savers hard.

And Elon Musk’s government downsizing initiative, DOGE, faces sunset amid controversy. In this interview, Dr. Ron Paul, former Congressman, presidential candidate, and founder of the Ron Paul Institute, joins Jeremy Szafron, Anchor at Kitco News to break down what he sees as the collapse of America’s fiat system, the Federal Reserve’s role in “moral bankruptcy,” and why the U.S. dollar may be nearing its breaking point.

Key Topics:

– The gold price surge and what it signals

– Why the Fed is “the head of the hydra”

 – If the U.S. will ever truly audit Fort Knox

– Elon Musk’s DOGE initiative: real reform or political theater?

– The risk of geopolitical flashpoints with Iran and China

 – His warning of liquidation, riots, and systemic reset

– The future of liberty, truth, and sound money

00:00 Introduction

00:58 Gold's Surge and Economic Implications

 05:34 Geopolitical Flashpoints: Iran and China

07:54 Economic Policies and Tariffs

12:07 Doge Experiment and Government Downsizing

 17:19 Transparency and the Federal Reserve

23:42 Conclusion

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fvHlr9oA_E

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Thursday Afternoon 4-3-25

 Al-Sudani's Advisor Clarifies: Are Iraqi Oil Exports Covered By Trump's Tariffs?

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad  The Prime Minister's advisor for foreign relations, Farhad Alaa Al-Din, confirmed on Thursday that Iraqi energy exports, including crude oil, are not covered by the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, while noting that the economic impact on Iraq is very limited.

Alaa El-Din said, "In light of the recent announcement by US President Donald Trump regarding the imposition of reciprocal tariffs on a number of countries around the world, we would like to clarify that Iraqi energy exports, including crude oil, are not subject to these tariffs."

He added, "Iraq currently exports between 7 and 8 million barrels of crude oil and its derivatives per month to the United States. These exports constitute the backbone of Iraqi exports and have not been affected by the recent customs measures."

He continued: "As for the rest of Iraqi exports, they are limited in size and scope, which means that the economic impact of these tariffs on Iraq will be extremely limited."

He stressed that "the strategic partnership between Iraq and the United States remains solid and strong, and that these measures will not affect the essence of the economic or diplomatic relationship between the two countries." He noted that "Iraq continues its commitment to deepening cooperation with the United States in various sectors, particularly in the areas of energy, investment, and enhancing regional stability."   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=54050

Iraqi Oil Prices Decline On The Global Market

economy | 09:29 - 03/04/2025  Mawazine News – Baghdad  Basra Medium crude oil reached $74.77 per barrel, while heavy crude oil reached $71.72 per barrel.

Data showed a slight increase in global oil prices, with British Brent crude reaching $73.12 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude oil reached $69.86 per barrel.
https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=260503

Iraqi Oil Prices Decline On The Global Market

economy | 03/04/2025  Mawazine News – Baghdad  Basra Medium crude oil reached $74.77 per barrel, while heavy crude oil reached $71.72 per barrel.

Data showed a slight increase in global oil prices, with British Brent crude reaching $73.12 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude oil reached $69.86 per barrel.
https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=260503

Iraq Preempts OPEC By Reducing Its Oil Production

Time: 04/02/2025 Read: 2,205 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) reduced its crude oil production last month, by reducing production from Iraq and Nigeria, just before the group began implementing long-delayed plans to restore previously suspended oil supplies.

Bloomberg reported that OPEC cut its production by 110,000 barrels per day, bringing it to 27.43 million barrels per day. OPEC leaders urged member states to adhere to the specified production quotas, a requirement some countries have not yet complied with.

Starting this month, the OPEC+ alliance, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, intends to begin gradually increasing production after a significant portion of it had been halted for several years, as part of the alliance's efforts to support oil prices.

The change came after US President Donald Trump called on OPEC to "bring down the price of oil," and some delegates said the group's leaders had lost patience with countries like Kazakhstan, which repeatedly exceed their production quotas.

A Bloomberg survey showed that Nigeria made the largest production cut among the coalition countries last month, cutting 50,000 barrels per day to an average of 1.5 million barrels per day, in line with its quota. Shipments of Nigerian Bonny Light crude are facing delays due to a fire on the Trans-Niger pipeline.

Iraq came in second place after reducing its production by 40,000 barrels per day to 4.15 million barrels per day, bringing it closer to the agreed-upon ceiling. However, Baghdad still exceeds the four million barrel limit and has made only limited progress on the additional cuts it pledged to compensate for previous overproduction.

The United Arab Emirates increased its production by 30,000 barrels per day, reaching 3.33 million barrels per day, exceeding its agreed-upon ceiling, according to the survey.

Data used by the OPEC Secretariat, compiled from a range of external sources, shows that both Iraq and the UAE are approaching their agreed production levels.

OPEC+ is scheduled to add about 138,000 barrels per day this month, the first in a series of gradual additions that will continue until late 2026. The alliance is expected to decide in the coming days on the next tranche, scheduled for May, and several delegates said they expect to proceed with it.

The Bloomberg survey is based on ship-tracking data, information from officials, and estimates from consulting firms Rapidan Energy Group, FGE, and Rystad Energy.  LINK

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

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Thursday AM 4-3-25

World Gold Council: 29% Of Central Banks Plan To Purchase Gold By 2025
 
Economy     gold     buying     countries   2025-04-01 00:20  Shafaq News/ The World Gold Council confirmed on Tuesday that 29% of countries' central banks intend to purchase the precious metal in 2025. The council said in a report seen by Shafaq News Agency that
 
"29% of countries' central banks intend to purchase gold during the current year," noting that  
"the purchases are due to the desire to restore balance to a more strategic level in these reserves, 
     financial market concerns, as well as the increased risks of crises and rising inflation."

He added that   
"gold continues to attract the attention of central banks as a reserve asset," noting that
 
"increasingly complex geopolitical and financial factors make managing gold reserves more important than ever." He pointed out that
 
"central banks added

     1,037 tons of gold in 2023, the second-highest annual purchases in history, after setting a record of

     1,082 tons in 2022."
 
Iraq has gold reserves of 162.7 tons,
 
ranking 28th among countries with the highest reserves of the precious metal.  
  
https://shafaq.com/ar/اقتصـاد/المجلس-العالمي-29-من-البنوك-المركزية-للدول-تعتزم-شرا-الذهب-العام-2025    

Gold Prices Rise Ahead Of US-China Tariffs

Wednesday, April 2, 2025 | Economic Number of reads: 189  Baghdad / NINA / Gold prices extended their gains on Wednesday, after hitting a record high in the previous session, as investors sought a safe haven in the yellow metal in anticipation of the potential impact of mutual tariffs between the United States and China.

The price of spot gold rose 0.7% to $3,131.25 per ounce, as of 02:40 GMT.

The price of gold reached an all-time high of $3,148.88 on Tuesday.

US gold futures rose 0.4% to $3,159.90.

Philip Newman, managing director of Metals Focus, said: "The main reason behind these consecutive record highs is safe haven buying, and the geopolitical uncertainty that supports this shows no signs of abating."

Some of the uncertainty that has rocked markets this year is expected to dissipate after President Trump unveils his tariff plan on Wednesday.

Newman said that a slowing US economy, a potential rise in inflation, and lower interest rates could pave the way for gold to reach $3,300 in the coming months.

Markets are in suspense ahead of US tariffs scheduled to be imposed later today, which President Donald Trump has dubbed "Liberation Day."

Trump's tariff policies could exacerbate inflation, slow economic growth, and escalate trade disputes.

Gold is considered a hedge against global instability and inflation and thrives in a low interest rate environment.

Spot silver rose 0.2% to $33.82 an ounce, platinum gained 0.8% to $987.66, and palladium advanced 0.7% to $990.45. /End   https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1195305

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Thursday Morning 4-3-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

CIRCLE FILES FOR INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING, PLANS TO LIST ON NYSE UNDER TICKER SYMBOL “CRCL”

Circle files for an IPO to list on the NYSE under the ticker "CRCL" with a focus on growing stablecoin revenue and market presence.

▪️Circle files for an IPO aiming to list on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “CRCL” with uncertain share pricing.

▪️Circle reports $1.68 billion in revenue for 2024 driven by interest from USDC reserve assets.

▪️Circle’s IPO marks its first attempt at a traditional public listing after a failed SPAC merger.

Circle, the issuer of the USD Coin (USDC), has officially filed an S-1 application with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), signaling its intent to go public. The firm submitted its filing on April 1 which reveals its intention to trade Class A common stock on the New York Stock Exchange under the market identifier “CRCL.”

The filing did not reveal the number of shares Circle plans to offer or the anticipated pricing range. As a result, the company’s valuation remains uncertain. However, it was disclosed that the shares sold by Circle will contribute proceeds directly to the company, while those sold by existing shareholders will not.

Underwriting duties for the IPO are being led by JPMorgan and Citigroup. The firms hold a 30-day right to buy extra shares for any portion exceeding original subscription levels.

Financial Performance and Revenue Growth

Circle’s financial data for 2024 offers a closer look at its performance. The company reported total revenue and reserve income of $1.68 billion, an increase from $1.45 billion in 2023. The bulk of its revenue came from reserve income tied to interest on assets backing the USDC. Operating expenses for the year amounted to $491.7 million, with compensation costs making up the largest portion at $263.4 million.

The net income from continuing operations at Circle reached $156.9 million last year despite a decrease from $271.5 million the previous year. The financial results showed a notable improvement compared to the previous year when Circle recorded a loss of $761.8 million. Adjusted EBITDA financial results for Circle reached $284.9 million in 2024.

Share Structure and Corporate Governance

Circle intends to adopt a three-tier share structure once it goes public. Class A shares, offered in the IPO, will carry one vote per share. Class B shares, which are held by co-founders Jeremy Allaire and Patrick Sean Neville, carry five votes per share. However, these shares are capped at 30% of total voting power. Class C shares carry no voting rights but are convertible under certain conditions.

This structure ensures Circle does not qualify as a “controlled company” under NYSE governance rules following the IPO.

A New Attempt at Going Public

This filing marks Circle’s first attempt at a traditional IPO after its failed merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) in 2021. The company’s shares have no prior public market. The timing of the IPO coincides with growing stablecoin adoption and increasing regulatory interest in digital dollar infrastructure.

Circle’s IPO remains subject to regulatory review and market conditions. More details on the pricing and share volume will be disclosed in an updated filing before the listing date.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CryptoNewsLand

~~~~~~~~~

STABLECOIN TRANSPARENCY BILL PASSES HOUSE COMMITTEE WITH OVERWHELMING VOTE

The STABLE Act has cleared the House Financial Services Committee, even as scrutiny of Trump-linked stablecoin ventures mounts.

The House Financial Services Committee voted to advance stablecoin legislation Wednesday, approving the STABLE Act with 32 members in favor and 17 opposed.

The bill, formally named the Stablecoin Transparency and Accountability for a Better Ledger Economy Act, would create a framework for dollar-denominated stablecoins, including reserve requirements and anti-money laundering standards.

During the markup session's opening remarks, House Financial Services Committee Chair French Hill stressed how blockchain technology "continues to transform the way money moves."

Hill stated that the bill forms part of their "ongoing efforts" to promote "financial innovation through sound digital asset policy. "

The vote proceeded despite controversy over President Donald Trump's family's connections to crypto ventures, including their foray into stablecoins with USD1 through World Liberty Financial.

Early in the session, Democrats raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, suggesting amendments to prevent the president and cabinet members from offering stablecoin products while in office.

Those concerns connect with an earlier statement by Rep. French Hill from Monday that Trump's crypto dealings have made drafting stablecoin legislation "more complicated."

The legislation now faces two more hurdles before becoming law. After the markup, it will be reported out of committee and scheduled for consideration by the House of Representatives.

Both the House and Senate must align their approaches, with key differences in state versus federal regulation and the treatment of foreign issuers such as Tether.

The GENIUS Act, a separate version from the Senate, will be considered alongside it.

Once the STABLE bill passes the House, it will move to the Senate, where it will undergo a similar process of committee consideration before potentially reaching the Senate floor for a vote.

If both chambers approve the bill, any differences between the House and Senate versions would need to be reconciled before the final legislation could be sent to the President for signature or veto.

Wednesday's development marks the committee's second attempt to advance stablecoin legislation. A previous effort in 2023 stalled amid partisan disagreements under the Biden administration.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Decrypt

~~~~~~~~~

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Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

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Follow the Roadmap

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“Tidbits From TNT” Thursday Morning 4-3-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Iraq joins TIR transit system

The global TIR transit system became fully operational in Iraq on April 1, 2025.

The International Road Union (IRU) said that Iraq is poised to strengthen its position as a key trade hub in the Middle East, making goods transport more efficient and secure across the country’s borders and beyond. The initiative connects southern and northern Iraq, also providing an efficient trade corridor linking Asia, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, Türkiye and Europe.

Iraq transport minister H.E. Razzaq Muhaibes Al-Saadawi said: “The operationalisation of the TIR system in the Republic of Iraq, in which IRU played a significant role, marks a significant milestone as it places the country on the brink of a new phase of potential investments and interregional trade with our neighbours and other countries in the region.”

The TIR system is expected to leverage Iraq’s strategic location and to increase the efficiency of cross-border trade, and it is forecast to reduce transport time by 80 percent and costs by 38 percent. “For the last two years, we have been working tirelessly on upgrading the road transport infrastructure in cooperation with all relevant parties. We are therefore committed to maximising the advantages of the TIR system in Iraq to boost the transport sector and the national economy,” said Al-Saadawi.

IRU secretary general Umberto de Pretto, commenting on the launch, said: “For almost eight decades, TIR has been driving secure trade. I look forward to seeing the first TIR truck crossing the territory of Iraq.

“Trucks will seamlessly transit the country and proceed along corridors offering a high level of security, opening a new chapter for the country and its role in international trade.”

The integration of TIR’s Electronic Pre-Declaration (TIR-EPD) system with Iraq’s national URUK platform allows the submission of advance cargo information. Throughout a journey, trucks can be closely monitored using GPS tracking, while regular checkpoints ensure cargo and transport security, before it ultimately reaches its final destination safely and on time.  link

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

 Tishwash:  ASYCUDA representative to Rudaw: Iraq has completed the automation of 18 border crossings. 

ASYCUDA's representative in Iraq, Nizar Al-Ammari, confirmed that the customs automation system is currently implemented at 18 of the 21 ports, with difficulties in implementing it on the Syrian border despite the port's readiness.

 He noted that two additional ports (one sea and one land) will be operational by the 15th of this month, thus completing the automation of all Iraqi ports.

Al-Amari told Rudaw Media Network on Wednesday (April 2, 2025) that the ASYCUDA system focuses on the three basic customs operations: import, export, and transit, and includes all customs procedures from the moment goods are registered until they leave the customs port. All of these operations have become fully electronic, including payment.

He added that the system has entered its second phase, which includes automating the remaining ports and adding new applications to improve monitoring and maximize trade revenues. The third phase will include the implementation of a single window for foreign trade, which will make all foreign trade operations in Iraq fully automated, eliminating any paper transactions or cash payments.

Al-Amari emphasized that the new system will improve the accuracy of trade statistics in Iraq, helping to develop clear economic and strategic plans, a matter of utmost importance to the international community. He explained that the automation of customs will enhance trade fairness for all traders, as customs laws will be applied uniformly to all.

He pointed out that the system automatically calculates customs duties and regulates import and export permits, reducing the possibility of tampering with customs data. He emphasized that work is also underway to link the Iraqi system with those of neighboring countries, which will enable the identification of incoming goods before they arrive in Iraq, thereby limiting any attempts at manipulation or smuggling.

He stressed that the United Nations respects the sovereignty of states and regions, and that its role in Iraq is limited to providing technical and economic advice without political interference. He noted that the ASYCUDA system was agreed upon between the Iraqi federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government.

Regarding the implementation of ASYCUDA in Kurdistan, Al-Amari pointed to three options: first, the Kurdistan Region would continue to use its current system or a different system with the possibility of linking it to ASYCUDA, provided it complies with international standards. Second, the Kurdistan Region would adopt the ASYCUDA system in full in the region through the Iraqi government, but this would be a complex option due to the linguistic and technical differences between the two systems.

The third option is to develop the ASYCUDA system in Kurdistan independently, linking it to the Iraqi system, as is the case in many countries that adopt unified systems with integration between local and international systems, he said. link

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

Al-Sudani's advisor to Rudaw: US tariffs do not include oil and gas, and their impact will be zero.

Mazhar Mohammed Salih, financial and economic advisor to the Iraqi Prime Minister, downplayed the impact of the US decision to impose a 39% tariff on Iraqi products, noting that Iraq has no significant exports to the US market.

Mazhar Mohammed Saleh told Rudaw Media Network on Thursday (April 3, 2025): "The US customs tariffs do not include oil and gas, which means that the impact of this move on Iraq will be zero, because Iraq does not have any other noteworthy goods exported to America that could be subject to customs duties."

Saleh explained that "Iraqi crude oil exports to the United States do not exceed $5 billion annually, and the US market is considered a secondary market for Iraq compared to those of China and India, where approximately 70% of Iraqi oil is exported."

Regarding the import of American goods to Iraq, he noted that "Iraq imports 90% of its goods and civilian needs from Turkey, India, China, the UAE, and some European countries," describing the American market as a "secondary market" compared to Asian and European markets. 

Al-Sudani's advisor said, "The Strategic Framework Agreement signed between Iraq and the United States in 2008 has protected Iraq from shifts in the US's highly protectionist policy, particularly with regard to the imposition of customs duties."

US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday the imposition of 39% tariffs on imports from US trading partners, including Iraq. link

Mot: ... Its that Time of Year Again!!! ....

Mot: ...... Raise Your Hand ----

MilitiaMan & Crew: Iraq Dinar News-Final Budget Accounts-Black Rock in Iraqi Port-Rafidain Bank Global Financial System

MilitiaMan & Crew:  Iraq Dinar News-Final Budget Accounts-Black Rock in Iraqi Port-Rafidain Bank Global Financial System

4-2-2025

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=KxW_aTH0rGU

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Wednesday Evening 4-2-25

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

US DOLLAR DAYS ARE NUMBERED: 2 ALTERNATIVE ASSETS THAT COULD REPLACE USD

The US dollar is currently standing on the precipice of a radical change, a transformation that intends to strip the USD bare of its reserve currency status. The US dollar has been encountering steep fluctuations in its price, with major non-traditional reserve currencies giving stiff competition to the dollar.

With Trump’s rising trade war narratives, the US dollar has been suffering the most out of the lot, with new alternatives busy challenging the American currency’s dominance at a rapid pace. Will the US dollar be able to survive this new development? Let’s find out.

The World Order Is Changing: Will The USD Be Able To Withstand This Change?

It all started with a new statement made by Larry Fink, the CEO of financial giant BlackRock. Fink, in his annual company letter, shared a new analysis, adding how the US dollar could lose its dominance to Bitcoin. This statement made a pivotal impact on the current financial mindset of the world, where BTC seems to be taking the lead over major world assets.

“If the U.S. doesn’t get its debt under control, if deficits keep ballooning, America risks losing that position to digital assets like Bitcoin.” Fink shared

In addition to this, Deutsche Bank had also echoed a similar stance earlier, adding how US dollar dominance is currently in grave jeopardy.

“We do not write this lightly. But the speed and scale of global shifts are so rapid that this needs to be acknowledged as a possibility. It is hard to overestimate the scale of change taking place in global economic and geopolitical relations in a matter of days.” As stated by George Saravelos, the bank’s global head of FX strategy, in a note to clients.

The Trump administration has also shown a steadfast approach toward expediting crypto proceedings. Trump has recently announced a crypto reserve with coins like BTC, ETH, XRP, ADA, and SOL included in the lot.

The US government is also exploring stablecoins as capable instruments to keep the US dollar’s dominance intact. However, the fact cannot be denied that Bitcoin is now being viewed as digital gold, another safe haven asset that could protect investors from stark USD volatility.

Another Asset Threatens the American Currency’s Dominance

Apart from Bitcoin, the steady rise of gold is also damaging the US dollar’s prestige in the long haul. Central banks all over the world have lately been diversifying their reserves, hoarding gold aggressively in the process. This demand has spiked XAUs value to new highs, threatening the age-old established world order.

“According to the IMF figures not updated for 2024, central banks’ gold holdings have surged by roughly 200 million troy ounces (6,221 tonnes) from 2006 to 1.16 billion troy ounces, driven largely by China and Russia,” Richter wrote. “The increases in China and Russia alone represent nearly 60% of the total increase since 2006. “ In dollar terms, these gold holdings at today’s price amount to $3.65 trillion.” As stated by Wolf Richter, Kitco writer and Wall Street analyst.

With Trump’s decision to announce further tariffs on April 2nd, the world could again witness sharp dollar volatility if the tariff spree escalates the global trade war narrative. With this, the investor sentiment could continue to favor Bitcoin and gold as safe haven assets, detailing the US dollar further in the process.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Watcher Guru

~~~~~~~~~

BRICS: HERE’S HOW TRUMP’S RECIPROCAL TARIFFS WILL IMPACT THE US DOLLAR

Since his return to the White House, US President Donald Trump has sought to end global de-dollarization. In pursuit of that, he has targeted the BRICS alliance with 150% tariffs, as Trump is now set to levy reciprocal tariffs on the entire world, with the US dollar bound to be affected.

Since his election win in late 2024, he has placed a massive target on the BRICS bloc. Specifically, he sought to end any talks of local currency promotion within the global south. However, this move is less about the status of the greenback and more about balancing global trade. So, what impact will it have on the asset?

BRICS & The World to Face Trump Tariffs on US ‘Liberation Day’: How Will the US Dollar Respond?

US President Donald Trump has been hyping up his April 2nd announcement as the country’s ‘Liberation Day.’ The administration is set to unveil a string of tariffs that seek to balance global trade, with nations like Israel and India already announcing an end to their tariffs on US goods to curtail the action.

Now, more than just the BRICS bloc is targeted by these Trump reciprocal tariffs, so the question is, just what will they do to the US dollar? Indeed, the returning president has continuously sought to secure the greenback’s status. Yet, the economic policy is bound to affect it internationally.

Rather surprisingly, the US dollar is expected to stabilize over the coming months, according to a Reuters report. However, it is still set to be affected by “mounting worries about the economic impact of President Donald Trump’s erratic tariff announcements,” strategists told the publication.

“Over one-third of strategies surveyed in the past few days also expressed concern about the greenback’s traditional role in the currency market as a safe haven,” they added. Indeed, the aggressive policy could threaten the currency in a myriad of ways.

Just this week, BlackRock CEO Larry Fink expressed concern regarding the US dollar’s status. Specifically, he noted that Bitcoin’s rise could affect it. Interestingly enough, Trump has been the driving force of that rise. Altogether, the dollar could be subject to increased pressure, proving the BRICS bloc right in its continued de-dollarization efforts.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Watcher Guru

~~~~~~~~~

SUMMARY OF PRESIDENT TRUMP'S RECIRPOCAL TARIFF ANNOUNCEMENT:

1. Tariffs imposed on 50+ countries in announcement

2. Tariffs are 50% of rates imposed on US, by country

3. 10% baseline tariff on all countries worldwide

4. 25% auto tariffs on all foreign made vehicles

5. Trump says tariffs will "give the US growth"

6. Trump plans to announce "largest tax cut in US history"

7. Baseline tariffs go into effect April 5th

8. Reciprocal tariffs go into effect April 9th

This is the largest tariff announcement in US history.

@ Newshounds News™

~~~~~~~~~

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Q & A Classroom Link  

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The Collapse Is Here: The Final Stage for Fiat | Larry Lepard

The Collapse Is Here: The Final Stage for Fiat | Larry Lepard

Kitco News:  4-2-2025

Is America on the brink of a monetary collapse – and could sound money like gold and Bitcoin be our only way out?

Veteran investor and sound money advocate Lawrence Lepard joins Kitco News anchor Jeremy Szafron to discuss the collapse of the U.S. monetary system, as outlined in his new book, The Big Print:

What Happened to America and How Sound Money Will Fix It. Lepard warns that decades of monetary mismanagement, endless money printing, and artificially low interest rates have pushed the financial system to the edge.

With U.S. debt now exceeding 120% of GDP, Lepard says a sovereign debt crisis is inevitable. “The government is trapped and has to keep printing money,” he tells Kitco. Key Topics:

Why the current monetary system causes wealth inequality

How fiat money “steals from working people”

Why he believes we’re deep into the Fourth Turning

The mechanics of the coming “debt doom loop”

Why Bitcoin is the “most asymmetric bet” he’s seen

Why gold is signaling the failure of fiat

His bold proposal to abolish the Fed and restore sound money

00:00 Introduction

 01:27 The Core Idea of 'The Big Print'

01:42 The Broken Monetary System and Wealth Inequality

03:51 The End Game of the Monetary Experiment

10:15 The Everything Bubble

13:21 Critique of the Federal Reserve

18:06 Inflation and Government Deception

 24:12 The Fourth Turning Theory

 26:29 The Future of Sound Money

27:19 The Debt Doom Loop Explained

30:31 Comparing Post-WWII Growth to Today

32:21 Bitcoin: The Asymmetric Bet

40:40 Gold's Resurgence and Market Dynamics

 43:33 A Vision for Monetary Reform

51:19 Final Thoughts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAipoqRmDW4

Some “Iraq News” Posted by Clare at KTFA 4-2-2025

KTFA:

Clare:  Mazhar Muhammad Salih: The urban renaissance continues thanks to the three-year budget.

4/2/2025

The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, confirmed that the financial and legal flexibility provided by the budget law (the three-year budget), in accordance with the amended Financial Management Law No. 6 of 2019, has enabled the executive authority to implement its government service program without interruption, which has contributed to achieving a continuous urban renaissance in all governorates of the country.

 Saleh explained to Al Furat News Agency that "the 2025 financial tables, which will soon be submitted to the House of Representatives in accordance with Article 77/Second of the Triennial Budget Law, will include some important adjustments in spending, revenue sources, and deficit management, especially after the House of Representatives approved, in early February, the amendment to Article 12 of the law, related to the mechanisms for calculating the extraction of Kurdistan Region oil in the areas of production and transportation."

He pointed out that "the financial track is proceeding smoothly and with a high level of governance, transparency, and financial integrity, through coordination between the legislative and executive authorities."

From.. Raghad   LINK

Clare:  Iraq's foreign reserves rise to a record high

4/2/2025

 The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, confirmed on Wednesday that foreign reserves are at their highest historical levels, helping to achieve economic balance and stability for the country. He also indicated that reserves still cover more than 100% of the currency in circulation.

Saleh said in a press statement: “The slight decline in the Central Bank’s reserves, estimated at 1% of the country’s total foreign reserves, is linked to two factors: First, the increased level of foreign currency reinforcements provided by the Iraqi banking system to its correspondents abroad for the purposes of financing trade and external transfers, which led to a significant decline in the dollar exchange rate against the dinar in the parallel market and an increase in the value of the dinar in that parallel market.”

He explained that "control over domestic liquidity levels has become high, significant, and influential in light of the increasing external value of the dinar, which continues to indicate a decline in the effectiveness of the parallel or secondary market in the country. There has also been a very clear decline in growth rates in the general price level and a very high level of price stability, unlike anything the country has ever witnessed before."

 He added, "The other issue depends on the degree of growth in the amounts in which the public finances exchange monthly oil revenues in foreign currency for the dinar for the benefit of total spending (which is the basis of foreign reserves) and converting them into Iraqi dinars," noting that "this is also linked to the degree of discipline and control of public expenditures on the one hand, and thus the slowdown in the liquidation of government foreign currency proceeds into domestic liquidity that can be spent on the other hand through the general budget." 

He pointed out that "taking into account the risks of fluctuations in average export oil prices of about $70 or less per barrel in energy markets, which occurred in recent months, this means that the compatibility between the level of replenishment of foreign reserves (through collecting them through cash issuance), which may have become slower and less rapid on the part of public finance, and external transfers in foreign currency for the benefit of financing private sector trade on the part of the monetary authority, which is still at a relatively high pace, is what caused this deficiency or slight decline in foreign reserves."

Saleh continued, "Foreign reserves remain at their highest historical levels, achieving economic balance and stability for the country. The function of foreign reserves remains to defend price stability. However, it is also wise for the Central Bank of Iraq to closely monitor the movements of the current account of the balance of payments to maintain the stability of foreign reserves and monitor their growth safely." 

He stressed that "these foreign reserves still cover more than 100% of the currency in circulation and enjoy a high commercial efficiency of more than 15 months of imports, compared to the global standard of three months." He added that "the monetary authority is the only competent entity responsible for managing the country's monetary policy at the domestic and external levels, with a high degree of consensus in terms of balance and transparency to
achieve and maintain economic stability."   LINK

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

Clare: The performance of the Iraqi banking sector during the year: decline in some indicators and growth in others.

4/2/2025- Baghdad

The Iraqi banking sector witnessed significant changes in its financial indicators over the past year, according to published data. These data reflect the performance of commercial banks, cash flows, dollar purchases and sales, and the policies of the Central Bank.

Commercial banks: decline in some assets and growth in private deposits

Data showed a 0.92% decline in commercial bank assets, falling from KWD 205.25 trillion at the end of 2023 to KWD 203.36 trillion at the end of 2024. Current deposits also declined by 9.38%, while private deposits increased by 10.63%, indicating increased consumer confidence in private banks compared to traditional current deposits.

Dollar movements: Central bank purchases drop sharply

The Central Bank's dollar purchases recorded a significant decline of 61.97%, falling from $8.35 billion to $3.18 billion. In contrast, cash dollar sales saw a slight decline of 0.92%, reflecting a decline in demand for hard currency in local markets.

Cash: A decrease in the money supply and a decline in the issued currency reserves

The issued currency decreased by 1.36%, while cash outside banks decreased by 10.26% to 130.35 trillion dinars, compared to 145.26 trillion dinars the previous year. The ratio of required reserves to issued currency also decreased from 143.14% to 129.64%, indicating a decrease in cash liquidity available in the market.

Central Bank: Increase in loans and decrease in gold reserves

Loans granted to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) saw a significant increase of 47.02%, reflecting a trend toward supporting economic development through project financing. Meanwhile, gold reserves fell by 8.69% to 189.90 trillion dinars, compared to 207.96 trillion dinars last year.

Inflation and exchange rate: a significant decline

The inflation rate fell by 35.56%, from 4.50% to 2.90%, reflecting improved price stability. The exchange rate on the parallel market also declined by 1.32%, indicating relative stability in the value of the dinar against the dollar.  LINK

Clare:  The Director General of Rafidain Bank identifies the importance of the AML system in enhancing financial transparency.

The Director General of Rafidain Bank, Dr. Ali Al-Fatlawi, highlighted the importance of the AML system in enhancing financial transparency, while pointing out that the bank has taken important strategic steps in the field of combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

The Director General of Rafidain Bank, Dr. Ali Karim Hussein, said that in light of the escalating challenges associated with financial crimes at the global level, anti-money laundering (AML) systems have become a top priority for financial institutions and governments.

As a cornerstone in protecting the integrity of financial markets and promoting economic stability, he stated, "With countries committed to implementing strict international standards in this area, Rafidain Bank stands out as a leading Iraqi financial institution that has adopted the latest monitoring and compliance systems, strengthening Iraq's position in the global financial system."

Regarding the importance of the anti-money laundering system and its role in financial stability, Al-Fatlawi explained that "money laundering poses a direct threat to economic systems, as it enables illegal activities to integrate into the financial system, leading to monetary instability and weakening economic policies."

He added, "For this reason, financial institutions implement strict measures to ensure compliance with international standards, such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations, which establish a comprehensive framework to combat these financial crimes."

He pointed out that "the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) system aims to prevent, analyze, and detect suspicious financial activities through mechanisms that include:

- Know Your Customer (KYC) verification to ensure knowledge of the true sources of funds;
- Monitoring financial transactions to detect any unusual activity;
- Immediate reporting of suspicious transactions to regulatory authorities;
- Using modern technology in financial analysis to enhance the efficiency of detecting illegal activities."

He continued, "These practices not only enhance the transparency of financial markets, but also contribute to raising countries' financial ratings and improving the business and investment environment," stressing that "there is significant support from the Anti-Money Laundering Office, and absolutely, through the development of the AML system."

He explained that "Rafidain Bank, as a banking institution with a major market share in Iraq, continues its pioneering role in developing the local banking structure in accordance with the latest international standards." He emphasized that "in recent years, the bank has taken important strategic steps in the field of combating money laundering and terrorist financing, reflecting its firm commitment to enhancing financial transparency and achieving full regulatory compliance."

Regarding the launch of the Daily Financial Transactions Monitoring (AML) system, he emphasized that "in a qualitative step, Rafidain Bank announced the launch of an advanced system to monitor daily banking transactions across its branches, making it the first Iraqi bank to adopt this supervisory approach in accordance with the latest global banking technologies."

He noted that "this project was implemented in partnership with specialized international institutions, as it aims to analyze and track all financial transactions in real time, contributing to enhancing the level of banking security and combating any illegal attempts at money laundering."

He explained that "the system included, in its first phase, six major branches of regulatory importance, including Al-Waziriya, Al-Muheet, Al-Rafie, Al-Dura Oil Complex, Zurbatiya, and Safwan, with the system to be gradually expanded to the remaining branches. This system is characterized by its ability to:

- Identify suspicious financial activities immediately, enabling rapid response;
- Analyze big data and its intersection with international sanctions lists, ensuring full compliance with regulatory standards;
- Improve financial audit efficiency by transitioning from paper-based operations to smart digital systems.

He pointed out that "this initiative confirms that Rafidain Bank is adopting a proactive approach to combating financial crimes, which strengthens its position as a trusted banking institution within Iraq, regionally, and internationally."

Regarding the economic and regional repercussions of adopting AML systems in Iraq, Al-Fatlawi explained, "Rafidain Bank's commitment to best practices in combating money laundering leads to strategic outcomes that extend beyond the bank itself to encompass the Iraqi economy as a whole.

Advanced banking systems that adopt advanced AML technologies enable:

- Achieving financial stability by preventing illicit money flows, which may negatively impact liquidity and price fluctuations.
- Strengthening international banking relations, as compliance with global standards enhances opportunities to establish partnerships with foreign correspondent banks, facilitating the smooth flow of money transfers and foreign investments.
- Stimulating foreign direct investment, as international investors seek safe financial environments free from regulatory risks.
- Improving Iraq's global financial reputation, which contributes to raising the rating of the Iraqi banking system with international financial institutions."

He continued, "Rafidain Bank is at the forefront of banking transformation, as the progress it has made in implementing anti-money laundering systems reflects its commitment to international standards and its keenness to protect the Iraqi banking sector."

He indicated that "by employing advanced financial technology, strict adherence to transparency, and integration with international regulatory systems, the bank continues its role as a pivotal financial institution in supporting financial integrity and economic stability."

 He went on to say, "As the digital transformation in the Iraqi banking sector continues, Rafidain Bank's experience represents a successful model of how to achieve a balance between regulatory compliance and technological development, paving the way for a more transparent and reliable banking future, both locally and internationally."

https://www.rafidain-bank.gov.iq/verify/index.php?url=/?article=142

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Wednesday Afternoon 4-2-25

Government Advisor: The 2025 Budget Includes Significant Adjustments In Spending And Deficit.

Time: 2025/04/02  {Economic: Al Furat News} The Prime Minister's advisor for financial affairs, Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, confirmed that "the general budget amendments enhance stability and support the country's urban renaissance."

Saleh told Al Furat News Agency that: "The financial and legal flexibility available in the Federal General Budget Law No. 13 of 2023 (the three-year budget), in accordance with the implementation of the amended Financial Management Law No. 6 of 2019, has allowed the executive authority to proceed with the implementation of its government service program for ongoing projects without interruption and at a high level of stability."

He explained that "these efforts have been clearly reflected in all governorates of the country, as they are witnessing a continuous and organized urban renaissance." He pointed out that the financial tables for the year 2025 will soon be submitted to the Council of Representatives in accordance with Article 77/Second of the Three-Year Budget Law, which will include some important adjustments in spending, sources of public revenue, and deficit management."

He pointed out that these adjustments come after the Council of Representatives approved, in early February of the month before last, the amendment to Article 12 of the Budget Law, related to the mechanisms for calculating the extraction of oil from the Kurdistan Region in the areas of extraction and transportation operations.

The Financial Advisor emphasized that the financial track is proceeding regularly and effectively, with a high level of governance, transparency, and financial integrity, thanks to close coordination between the legislative and executive authorities.  LINK

Government Statement On Iraq's Foreign Reserves: At Their Highest Levels

Money and Business  Economy News – Baghdad   The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, confirmed on Wednesday that foreign reserves are at their highest historical levels, helping to achieve economic balance and stability for the country. He also noted that reserves still cover more than 100% of the currency in circulation.

“The slight decline in the Central Bank’s reserves, estimated at 1% of the country’s total foreign reserves, is linked to two things: First, the high level of reinforcements of the Iraqi banking system with foreign currency from their correspondents abroad for the purposes of financing trade and external transfers, which led to a significant decline in the exchange rate of the dollar in the parallel market against the dinar and an increase in the value of the dinar in that parallel market,” Saleh told the official agency, as followed by “Al-Eqtisad News.”

He explained that "control over domestic liquidity levels has become high, significant, and influential in light of the increasing external value of the dinar, which continues to indicate a decline in the effectiveness of the parallel or secondary market in the country.

There has also been a very clear decline in growth rates in the general price level and a very high level of price stability, unlike anything the country has ever witnessed before."

He added, "The other issue depends on the degree of growth in the amounts in which the public finances exchange monthly oil revenues in foreign currency for the dinar for the benefit of total spending (which is the basis of foreign reserves) and converting them into Iraqi dinars,"

 noting that "this is also linked to the degree of discipline and control of public expenditures on the one hand, and thus the slowdown in the liquidation of government foreign currency proceeds into domestic liquidity that can be spent on the other hand through the general budget."

He pointed out that "taking into account the risks of fluctuations in average export oil prices of about $70 or less per barrel in energy markets, which occurred in recent months, this means that the compatibility between the level of replenishment of foreign reserves (through collecting them through cash issuance), which may have become slower and less rapid on the part of public finance, and external transfers in foreign currency for the benefit of financing private sector trade on the part of the monetary authority, which is still at a relatively high pace, is what caused this deficiency or slight decline in foreign reserves."

Saleh continued, "Foreign reserves remain at their highest historical levels, achieving economic balance and stability for the country. The function of foreign reserves remains to defend price stability. However, it is also wise for the Central Bank of Iraq to closely monitor the movements of the current account of the balance of payments to maintain the stability of foreign reserves and monitor their growth safely."

He stressed that "these foreign reserves still cover more than 100% of the currency in circulation and enjoy a high commercial efficiency of more than 15 months of imports, compared to the global standard of three months."

 He added that "the monetary authority is the only competent entity responsible for managing the country's monetary policy at the domestic and external levels, with a high degree of consensus in terms of balance and transparency to achieve and maintain economic stability." https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=54025

An Iraqi Oil Field With Reserves Of 22 Billion Barrels Has Been Awarded A New Contract.

Energy  Economy News – Baghdad  An Iraqi oil field with recoverable reserves of approximately 22 billion barrels has been awarded a new contract to provide full project management services.

China Huanqiu Engineering & Construction Corporation (HQC) has signed a contract to provide project management services for the West Qurna 1 oil field in Iraq.

The West Qurna 1 field, located in Iraq's Basra Governorate, is one of the largest oil fields in Iraq, with recoverable reserves of approximately 22 billion barrels.

The field's proven reserves are estimated at more than 12 billion barrels, according to a statement posted by the Chinese company on the social media platform WeChat.

West Qurna Oil Field Production

Since CNPC took over as prime contractor from ExxonMobil on January 1, 2024, the West Qurna field has maintained an average production of over 541,000 barrels per day of crude oil throughout the year.

Production reached a record high of 568,000 barrels per day on July 28 of last year (2024), according to Huanqiu Engineering and Contracting Company.

On January 22, 2025, the signing ceremony for the West Qurna-1 oilfield water injection project was successfully held at the headquarters of China Petroleum Engineering and Construction Corporation (CPECC).

This project is the largest engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract since the company assumed the role of prime contractor for the West Qurna 1 oil field project, according to a statement seen by Energy Platform.

This initiative introduces advanced high-pressure water injection technology, using the latest water treatment and reinjection systems, to maintain optimal reservoir pressure and enhance production efficiency.

The implementation strategy consists of two phases, focusing on upgrading existing facilities and establishing new water injection infrastructure. The completed facility will significantly increase water injection capacity from 300,000 barrels per day to 1.5 million barrels.

Iraqi Oil Field Developments

On January 1, 2025, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new operations headquarters for the West Qurna 1 project in Basra, Iraq's second-largest city and a major port.

Oil Minister Hayan Abdul-Ghani announced via video link that the field's production has now reached 550,000 barrels per day, praising the Chinese company for providing job opportunities and adequate services to local communities.

The new complex extends over an area of ​​800,000 square meters, with a total construction area of ​​approximately 50,000 square meters. It is scheduled for completion in two phases, the first in 2027 and the second in 2028.

The first phase will accommodate 540 employees and include two production command buildings, a restaurant, a multi-purpose building, a medical clinic, a maintenance workshop, and other support facilities.

Laying the foundation stone for the new operations headquarters for the West Qurna oil field project - Photo from the China Daily platform

In a press release reviewed by Energy Platform, the China National Petroleum Corporation announced that it had successfully completed the handover of seven fields within six months, with all fields fully delivered.

By last year (2024), average annual production had risen to 541,000 barrels per day, and production stabilized at 550,000 barrels per day, reaching a record peak of 568,000 barrels on July 28, 2024.

In 2025, the successive operation of four major projects will contribute to increasing production capacity by 200,000 barrels per day.

"We expect production capacity to reach 800,000 barrels per day by 2028, 1 million barrels per day by 2030, and in the next phase, 1.2 million barrels per day by 2035," said project manager Kai Kai Ping https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=54033

New Rise In Basra Crude Prices

Wednesday, April 2, 2025 | Economic Number of reads: 209   Baghdad / NINA / The prices of Basra heavy and medium crude oil rose on Wednesday, with the stability of oil prices in global markets.

The prices of Basra heavy crude rose 76 cents, or 1.07%, to reach $72.04, and the prices of medium crude rose 76 cents to reach $75.09.

Oil prices stabilized before Trump imposed new tariffs that could deepen the global trade pocket.
Brent crude recorded $74.60, up 10 cents, and US crude recorded $71.26, up 3 cents. / End

https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1195312

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