Stocks, Bonds, and the US Dollar are all Breaking

Stocks, Bonds, and the US Dollar are all Breaking

Wealthion:  4-24-2025

The financial markets may be teetering on the edge of a major repricing event, according to Jesse Felder, founder of The Felder Report.

In a recent interview with James Connor on Wealthion, Felder issued a stark warning: stocks, bonds, and the U.S. dollar are all dangerously mispriced, potentially setting the stage for significant upheaval.

Felder argues that despite persistent recession signals, the S&P 500 remains dangerously overvalued. He highlights the concerning trend of retail investors driving a leverage-fueled bubble, while corporate insiders are simultaneously cashing out their holdings – a classic sign of market irrationality.

The narrative surrounding the tech sector, often seen as a haven in uncertain times, is also showing cracks. Felder points out that optimism is waning, evidenced by AI giants freezing capital expenditure spending, suggesting a potential slowdown in the very sector driving market enthusiasm.

The bond market, traditionally seen as a safe haven, is facing its own unique challenges. According to Felder, surging deficits and persistent inflation could trigger a “vigilante revolt,” as investors lose confidence in the government’s ability to manage its debt. This could lead to a sharp increase in bond yields, further destabilizing the financial landscape.

Adding to the complexity, Felder believes the Federal Reserve may soon find itself in a policy trap. Facing political pressure, the Fed might be forced to monetize debt, potentially exacerbating inflationary pressures and undermining the dollar’s credibility.

Finally, Felder suggests that the U.S. dollar may have entered a long-term bear market, marking a significant shift in the global macroeconomic landscape. This weakening of the dollar could have far-reaching consequences, impacting everything from international trade to investment flows.

Jonathan Wellum, CEO of Rocklinc, weighed in on Felder’s analysis, revealing his firm’s cautious stance. Acknowledging the potential for market volatility, Wellum disclosed that Rocklinc is currently holding a substantial 28% cash position. This strategic move reflects a defensive posture, allowing the firm to capitalize on potential opportunities that may arise during a market correction.

Despite the overall bearish outlook, Wellum emphasized that opportunities still exist in today’s volatile markets. He pointed to specific areas where value can be found, though he didn’t explicitly detail them in the excerpt.

Felder’s warning and Wellum’s cautious approach underscore the importance of vigilance in the current market environment. While predicting the future is impossible, the confluence of overvalued assets, unsustainable debt levels, and potential policy missteps suggests that the risk of a major repricing event is elevated.

Investors should carefully consider their risk tolerance, diversify their portfolios, and be prepared for potential volatility ahead.

 Whether a full-blown “reset” is imminent remains to be seen, but the warning signs are certainly worth heeding.

https://youtu.be/78jt-3vTSNU

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Thursday Morning 4-24-25

The Central Bank Renews Its Warning Against Trading In Withdrawn Banknotes.
 
April 22, 2025   In recent years, this bank has observed the circulation of foreign banknotes from various countries,  some of which are genuine and in circulation,  others withdrawn from circulation, and 
some counterfeit.
 
Such banknotes are used by unscrupulous outlaws to defraud citizens by luring them into exchanging them for Iraqi dinars at prices far exceeding their actual value.

They claim that exchanging them offers them significant profits and rare investment opportunities.
 
Therefore, the Central Bank of Iraq calls upon the public and the specialized security and regulatory agencies to monitor these matters and refrain from handling these banknotes.
 
They should focus on Iraqi banknotes and those handled by the Central Bank of Iraq and the banking system, to avoid falling prey to outlaws.  Central Bank of Iraq     https://cbi.iq/news/view/2860  

Al-Sudani's Advisor: Annual Returns From Investing Reserves Are No Less Than $2 Billion.
 
Money and Business  Economy News – Baghdad  The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, confirmed on Tuesday that the "annual returns" from investing foreign reserves are no less than $2 billion, according to his estimates. Saleh said,
 
"These investments are often short-term and  directed toward US, European, or British treasury bonds, 
with the goal of achieving appropriate returns."

He added, "These investments are characterized by low risk and generate appropriate returns, and the invested assets can be quickly converted into cash without incurring losses."

Saleh pointed out that "profits generated from reserves are divided into two types: the  first is realized, represented by direct interest, and the  second is unrealized, resulting from diversifying the investment portfolio, in addition to realizing potential profits from exchange rate differences between currencies and gold."

The Central Bank of Iraq previously revealed a decline in foreign reserves for 2024, reaching 130.81 trillion dinars, a 10.18% decrease compared to the same period in 2023, when these reserves reached 145.64 trillion dinars. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=54462    

Will The Government Resort To Mandatory Deposits For Citizens? These Obstacles
 
Time: 2025/04/21 22:48:02 Reading: 4,920 times {Economic: Al Furat News} The head of the Iraqi Economic Alliance, Adi Al-Alawi,
 
warned of the major challenges facing monetary and fiscal policy in Iraq,
emphasizing that financial reform requires real tools for transformation,
most notably the independence of the central bank.
 

During his appearance on the "Free Talk" program on Al Furat satellite channel this evening, Al-Alawi pointed out that:
 
"The most prominent problem lies in the lack of effective oversight of banks," stressing that
 
"the Central Bank is in one valley, and the banks are in another, as the latter
 
     do not adhere to official instructions and
     operate according to special policies,
 
which has caused the banking system to lose real control over it." He added that
 
"strict oversight represents the Central Bank's best weapon in controlling banking activity,"
 
calling for "a move toward a cashless economy despite a deep-rooted crisis of confidence among citizens in the banking system due to past experiences, including the seizure of funds in the 1990s and the subsequent bankruptcy or failure of some banks." Al-Alawi stressed that
 
"citizens cannot be forced to deposit their money in banks, even within the legal framework, because that would have negative repercussions." He pointed out that
 
"persuasion must be achieved through incentives," revealing that
 
"the number of shops and commercial companies registered with the Iraqi Chambers of Commerce is 1.2 million,
 
while the number of unregistered ones is 2.8 million,
 
bringing the total to approximately 4 million outlets." He explained that
 
"the mentality governing the Iraqi economy remains socialist,
despite the official transition to a market economy following the 2005 constitutional vote," suggesting that
 
"Iraq's budget is close to $100 billion or more, and was supposed to generate $12 billion from non-oil revenues."
 
Al-Alawi called for "a five-year tax freeze to
 
     regulate corporate operations and
     alleviate concerns about joining the financial system,
 
which could bolster the state treasury by $17 billion currently missing due to dollar-selling mechanisms."

In the same context, Al-Alawi revealed that
 
"the Central Bank has agreed with two international companies,
 
    one specializing in bank mergers and the
    other in private sector restructuring,
 
to submit a comprehensive study next July on the struggling banks."      
https://alforatnews.iq/news/هل-ستلجأ-الحكومة-إلى-الإيداع-الإجباري-للمواطنين؟-هذه-العقبات   

Banking Sector Update
 
Economic 04/15/2025  Yasser Al-Mutawali  Iraq has recently witnessed significant improvements on the political, economic, and security fronts, which has had a positive impact on attracting foreign and Arab investments, particularly in the banking sector.
 
The increasing presence of foreign and Arab banks in the country is evidence of a recovering investment environment and reflects government efforts to enhance economic stability.
 
Among the most notable positive indicators that have contributed to strengthening the investment environment are regional and international cooperation and Iraq's openness to Arab and international countries.
 
This has boosted investor confidence and encouraged Arab banks to expand their presence in Iraq, which is relied upon to provide advanced financial services, such as trade finance and Islamic banking, in addition to supporting the private sector and joint investments.
 
This step represents the optimal means for global integration through the entry of international banks, reflecting the return of investor confidence in the Iraqi economy.
 
Meanwhile, the Iraqi banking reform process, undertaken by the government to address the challenges facing the banking sector and keep pace with the digital age and international requirements, is proceeding along two parallel tracks.
 
The first involves reforming private banks, led by the Central Bank, and ensuring compliance with international standards and the implementation of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing requirements.
 
This includes lifting the ban on dealing with Iraqi banks and cooperating with international companies to develop the technical infrastructure.
 
The second path is being adopted by the government to modernize state-owned banks, with support from the executive branch.
 
This involves improving efficiency and adopting modern banking systems to reduce corruption, increase transparency, integrate with the private sector, and encourage partnerships between banks.
 
It's worth noting that there are obstacles hindering banking development, including bureaucracy, legal complexities, weak digital infrastructure in some local banks, and the need for qualified human resources to manage modern financial systems.
 
This goal aims to create a modern banking system that supports the national economy.
 
However, complete success requires accelerating reforms to ensure compliance with international standards, transforming Iraq into an attractive financial center that contributes to economic diversification and the creation of new job opportunities, thus strengthening its regional and international standing.
 
In any case, there is no alternative but to integrate with the global financial and banking climate, after comprehensive reform is completed, with the aim of creating a unified national banking market, directing banking credit towards investment, driven by the promising economic stability our country enjoys.   https://alsabaah.iq/112899-.html  

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Thursday Morning 4-24-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

US STABLECOIN PLANS IGNITE EU REGULATORY DISPUTE

U.S. endorsement of cryptocurrencies and promotion of dollar-based stablecoins has reportedly sparked tensions between the European Commission and the European Central Bank.

ECB Dollar-Based Stablecoin Concerns Overblown

U.S. President Donald Trump’s endorsement of cryptocurrencies is reportedly causing a tiff between the European Commission (EC) and the European Central Bank (ECB), which sees this embrace endangering Europe’s financial system. According to a Politico report citing an ECB policy paper, the central bank’s demand for the rewrite of laws governing cryptocurrencies is at odds with the EC, which views the former’s concerns as alarmist.

As stated in the report, the commission believes the Frankfurt-based ECB’s demands are an affront and challenge to its lawmaking authority. The reported spat between the two bodies comes as some in the European Union continue to voice concern over the growth of cryptocurrencies and dollar-based stablecoins.

For instance, the Italian economy minister recently warned that dollar-based stablecoins pose an even greater threat to the euro than the ongoing trade war. In the past, the European Union (EU) said it would prioritize promoting the digital euro, the continent’s answer to dollar-based stablecoins.

However, planned U.S. reforms, including a White House executive order and the STABLE and GENIUS acts, are expected to significantly expand the American stablecoin industry, potentially reaching a $2 trillion supply by 2028, according to British bank Standard and Chartered. This projected growth has triggered warnings from ECB President Christine Lagarde and digital payments head Piero Cipollone.

MiCA Rules Cannot Withstand Dollar Stablecoins

According to the report, both Lagarde and Cipollone believe Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) rules are not strong enough to withstand dollar-based stablecoins. They fear that an avalanche of dollar-based stablecoins could end up rerouting European savings into the U.S. The ECB officials’ dim view of MiCA, however, is not shared by EC officials, who reportedly made their feelings known at a recent meeting.

An anonymous diplomat who attended the meeting is quoted in the report explaining how EC officials rebuffed claims made by Lagarde and Cipollone.

“The Commission was quite clear that they had different views on this topic [and] not very many [countries] supported the idea that we should now jump the gun and start making quick changes in [the rules] based on this alone,” one of the diplomats said.

The official suggested that the European Central Bank (ECB) is amplifying concerns about stablecoins to gain political backing for its digital euro project. The initiative aims to create a pan-European payment system to protect Europe’s financial infrastructure from crypto assets.

However, the EC has defended the effectiveness of MiCA rules and insisted that it’s too early to assess the impact of the U.S. crypto resurgence on EU markets.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Bitcoin News

~~~~~~~~~

NEW AI AGENT LAUNCHES ON MAY 10: GROK AI BASED CRYPTO AGENT WILL CHANGE EVERYTHING

A new AI agent—powered by Grok AI—is set to launch on May 10, and it could change everything for retail traders during this crypto bull run.

In major news, MIND of Pepe launches its AI agent on 10 May. Much more than just a trading bot, $MIND is an autonomous intelligent actor that ingests and analyzes all types of market data in real time.

As such, it is also much more than just a meme coin. MIND of Pepe threatens to do for crypto what ChatGPT and Grok are doing for research and content generation – opening up a whole new world of invention. $MIND is a brain that not only analyzes but also acts. It can start trends as well as respond to them. It can even create brand new tokens.

Two of crypto’s dominant narratives in 2025 are still charging forward: meme coins and artificial intelligence. These narratives echo the explosive energy that fueled last year’s bull run. The launch of the MIND of Pepe AI agent marks the next stage of truly usable and useful AI for crypto market participants and users.

Now, as Q2 kicks off and the market regains its momentum, one question is on everyone’s mind: Can these trends continue to lead the charge?

There’s good reason to believe so. Meme coins remain one of the most accessible entry points into crypto, deeply rooted in internet culture, powered by viral energy, and driven by loyal communities. Meanwhile, AI is only just beginning to show its full potential, with new use cases emerging rapidly as the technology evolves.

And now, these two trends collide in one of the most talked-about projects of the year: MIND of Pepe ($MIND) – a crypto AI agent that gives the internet’s most iconic meme a neural upgrade.

The result? A meme coin with a brain – engineered to help investors identify opportunities, whether the market is pumping, dipping, or moving sideways.

Right now, $MIND is priced at $0.0037315 in its ongoing presale, but that price will rise in less than two days as the next tier kicks in.

CoinGecko Analysis Suggests Meme Coins and AI Will Still Dominate 2025

CoinGecko’s Q1 2025 report confirms what the market’s already feeling – AI tokens and meme coins continue to dominate investor interest, accounting for a combined 62.8% of all attention.

AI tokens now lead the charge with 35.7%, surpassing meme coins at 27.1%.

In 2024, meme coins ruled the first two quarters, cooled off in Q3, and peaked again in December with renewed retail participation. AI tokens, while active, played a secondary role.

But this year’s different. To lead the narrative again, it’ll take more than recycled hype. Investors are now looking for substance behind the memes – and real-world utility behind the AI. The project needs to offer tools, tech, and tangible value.

.For instance, tokens like Artificial Superintelligence Alliance ($FET) and Ocean Protocol ($OCEAN) – both critical to AI agent infrastructure –  have been gaining serious traction, rising more than 32% and 28.4%, respectively, over the past week

In that same vein, MIND of Pepe is quickly capturing attention, not just riding the AI narrative, but helping redefine what it means in the crypto space.

MIND of Pepe Is The Ultimate Meme Coin Fusion With AI

In a market still driven by meme energy and AI utility, MIND of Pepe is emerging as the fusion point – a Pepe-themed, AI-powered token that doesn’t just react to trends but hunts them down and turns them into profit potential for $MIND holders.

Built on Ethereum, MIND of Pepe functions as an autonomous AI agent. It scans X (formerly Twitter), tracks crypto sentiment, and identifies early-stage opportunities before they go mainstream.

Holders can access these insights through a sleek, ChatGPT-style dashboard – trained specifically on crypto-native data – that answers questions, analyzes market conditions, and broadcasts real-time trade ideas.

But this AI doesn’t just listen. It acts. MIND of Pepe can interact with influencers and creators to amplify hype around trades it flags – and when the market’s quiet, it can dig even deeper.

With on-chain access and its wallet, the agent can interact directly with dApps and create new tokens based on trend signals it detects, pushing the boundaries of what meme coins and AI agents can do.

It’s a next-level leap – and the momentum shows. The project has already raised over $8.2 million, making it one of the fastest-moving presales of the year.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  99Bitcoins

~~~~~~~~~

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Iraq News Posted by Clare at KTFA 4-24-2025

KTFA:

Clare: Central Bank: We are committed to building a more inclusive and equitable digital financial system.

4/23/2025- Baghdad

The Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) emphasized on Wednesday the importance of the media's role in supporting financial inclusion and spreading financial literacy, while also underscoring its commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable digital financial system.

In her speech at the Ninth Scientific Conference (Third International) of the College of Media at the University of Iraq, under the theme "Artificial Intelligence in Media: Prospects for Innovation and Challenges of Cultural Dialogue"

The bank's Assistant Head of Financial Affairs, Adhraa Taha Mohammed, said, "This conference reflects the bank's vision to promote financial inclusion, implement government directives toward the use of electronic payment methods, and the role of the media in spreading financial literacy."

She added, "Financial inclusion has become a pillar of economic and social development. It doesn't just mean individuals having access to banking services, but also empowering them to make smart financial decisions that contribute to improving their lives and supporting the stability of society as a whole." She emphasized that "the media's vital role is not limited to raising awareness, but extends to building a solid financial culture that enhances trust between citizens and financial institutions."

She explained that "the government's drive to promote the use of electronic payment methods has become an urgent necessity imposed by modern developments, which requires all parties, whether academics, journalists, or institutions, to work together to guide society."

She emphasized that "media colleges play a pivotal role in preparing media professionals capable of delivering financial messages in innovative and credible ways, bringing economic concepts closer to all segments of society, especially marginalized groups or those previously excluded from the traditional financial system."

She emphasized that "the Central Bank of Iraq is committed to actively participating in building a more inclusive and equitable digital financial system, and is opening doors to cooperation with universities, researchers, and all relevant parties to achieve this goal. This can be achieved by: organizing workshops and seminars within universities to introduce students to the concepts and importance of electronic payments, providing technical and cognitive support for university research focused on digital transformation and digital finance, encouraging financial innovation among students by urging the financial sector to offer financial products and services tailored to the student segment, and offering accessible digital solutions. It also aims to involve students in awareness campaigns as active contributors to spreading a responsible financial culture in society."

She concluded by saying, "This integration between the Central Bank and universities aims not only to increase the use of electronic payment tools, but also to create a financially and technically literate generation capable of leading the national economy toward greater progress and modernity." She emphasized that "investing in financial awareness within universities is an investment in Iraq's future and the best path to achieving true and sustainable digital financial inclusion."  LINK

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

Clare:  The Central Bank of Iraq organizes an introductory workshop for the National Job Day Award.

The Central Bank of Iraq organized an introductory workshop on the National Job Day, which honors a number of innovators in various ministries and state institutions.

The workshop was attended by the Executive Director of the National Job Day Initiative at the Prime Minister's Office, Mr. Amjad Al-Khafaji, who reviewed some success stories of Iraqi state employees.

He emphasized that there are 1,275 committees distributed across all civil, military and security departments of the state, with approximately 5,000 employees working under them. They work to select inspiring success stories to be included in the National Job Day award, as the award motivates state employees to be creative.

He emphasized that the award is divided into four sections: the first is for Hope Makers, the second is for Inspirational People, the third is for Dedicated People, and the last is titled the Job Day Initiative, which is the category for state institutions for their employees.

At the end of the workshop, the Director of Women's Empowerment and Head of the Job Day Committee at the Central Bank of Iraq, Ms. Alaa Jamal, was honored.

It is noteworthy that the National Job Day Award aims to highlight the importance of public service and the role of national competencies in building the state.

 Central Bank of Iraq
Media Office
April 23, 2025

https://cbi.iq/news/view/2863

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

Clare:  Kurdistan PM Welcomes U.S. Delegation, Discusses Religious Freedom, Unity, and Political Progress

4/23/2025  ERBIL —

Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Wednesday, April 23, received a high-level U.S. delegation led by Riley Barnes, the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor at the U.S. Department of State.

The meeting, attended by U.S. Consul General in Erbil Steve Bitner, emphasized America’s continued engagement in the Kurdistan Region and began with the delegation expressing their appreciation for participating in Kurdistan’s National Prayer Breakfast Day.

A key focus of the discussions was the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and religious freedom. PM Barzani and the delegation explored the current state of interfaith harmony in the Region, which has long been recognized as a safe haven for religious and ethnic minorities amid regional unrest.

The talks also highlighted pressing political developments, particularly the urgency of forming the new Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) cabinet. Both sides underlined the importance of resolving internal political issues swiftly to maintain stability and continue development.

In addition, the conversation touched on the timely resumption of oil exports from the Kurdistan Region—a matter with significant implications for both regional economics and Erbil-Baghdad relations.

This meeting underscores the continued strategic partnership between the United States and the Kurdistan Region, particularly on issues of governance, human rights, and religious pluralism.   LINK

Clare:  Trump to ‘Strengthen Ties’ with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE in Visit Next Month

WASHINGTON DC, United States — 

U.S. President Donald Trump will visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) next month, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday. 

Trump’s trip to the three Gulf countries will take place between May 13 and May 16.

Originally, that trip was scheduled to be Trump’s first trip abroad, underscoring the importance of those countries, particularly Saudi Arabia, in the administration’s policy making.

That is a continuation of Trump’s approach from his first term in office. Then, Trump made his first trip abroad to Saudi Arabia.

However, with the death of Pope Francis, Trump his first trip overseas in his second term will be to Rome, where he will attend the pope’s funeral on Saturday. 

In addition, Qatar’s Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who is also his country’s Foreign Minister, is visiting Washington, and he met on Tuesday with Secretary of State Marco Rubio. 

Strengthening Ties with Middle Eastern Allies

“The president looks to strengthen the ties between the United States and these countries” that he will be visiting next month, Leavitt said on Tuesday, as she discussed Trump’s upcoming trip.

Although Saudi Arabia is the focus of this diplomacy, it is broad and far-reaching, and it includes the Kurdistan Region as well.

This diplomacy goes back to the first days of Trump’s second term. Saudi Arabia served as the site for the initial talks that the Trump administration held related to its mediation of the war between Russia and Ukraine. 

That event marked the first of a series of meetings between senior U.S. and Saudi officials. It is now culminating in Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia.

Thus, in mid-February, Rubio and National Security Council Advisor Michael Waltz travelled to Saudi Arabia, where they met with Russian officials. In that context, they also saw the Saudi Crown Prince and de facto ruler, Mohammed bin Salman.

Then, at the end of February, the Saudi Defense Minister, Khalid bin Salman, continued that diplomacy with a visit to Washington.

In March, Rubio and Waltz returned to Saudi Arabia to meet with Ukrainian officials. Again, they also met with Mohammed bin Salman.

And earlier this month, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan al-Saud visited Washington.

In hindsight, those meetings have served to help prepare for Trump’s visit next month to Saudi Arabia, as well as to the much smaller Gulf states of Qatar and the UAE.

Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister

Indeed, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Rubio in Washington on Tuesday.

Qatar hosts the largest U.S. air base in the Middle East, Al Udeid. The British Royal Air Force is also located there.

In their meeting, Rubio and Al Thani “discussed the important strategic partnership” between their two countries, “including close security and economic cooperation and shared efforts to address regional challenges in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria,” the U.S. read-out said.

They also pledged closer coordination, as they “reiterated both countries’ support for greater security and stability in the Middle East and emphasized the importance of increased collaboration on bilateral and regional issues.”   LINK

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

Clare:  Al-Sudani welcomes Macron's upcoming visit and affirms the convergence of visions between Baghdad and Paris on regional issues.

4/23/2025

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron's upcoming visit to Iraq on Wednesday, stressing the convergence of views between Iraq and France on developments in the region. 

Al-Sudani's media office stated in a statement received by {Euphrates News} that "the latter received the French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and his accompanying delegation, pointing to the strong relations with France that have clearly developed since his visit to Paris about two years ago and the signing of the strategic agreement. He also welcomed the upcoming visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Iraq, and stressed the convergence of views between Iraq and France regarding the region." 

The Prime Minister expressed "Iraq's desire to hold the Iraqi-French Business Forum in the capital, Baghdad." He also stressed the importance of stability in the region, particularly in Syria, and the need to adopt the principles of citizenship, peaceful coexistence, and the participation of all components in governing the country. 

For his part, Barrow conveyed the greetings of French President Emmanuel Macron to the Prime Minister and praised his government's efforts to transform Iraq into a successful and attractive investment destination, raising its rankings in the safest categories.

He also stressed "the need to coordinate positions with Iraq, as it is a pivotal country, and to strengthen relations with it, particularly on the economic front, and to encourage French companies to operate in Iraq." 

He also noted his government's commitment to military and security cooperation and the fight against terrorism, in light of the bilateral agreements signed regarding military equipment, stressing that his country's government shares Iraq's position on developments in Syria and the region.   LINK

MilitiaMan & Crew Iraq Dinar News-Update-Central Bank-Iraq Stock Exchange-ADX-New Economic Era-Economic Control

MilitiaMan & Crew Iraq Dinar News-Update-Central Bank-Iraq Stock Exchange-ADX-New Economic Era-Economic Control

4-23-2025

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=n5ZQsKVgzik

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Wednesday Afternoon 4-23-25

Government Advisor: Development Indicators Place Iraq On The Cusp Of A New Economic Era.

Local | 08:41 - 04/23/2025   Mawazine News – Baghdad  The Prime Minister's Advisor for Financial Affairs, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, confirmed on Wednesday that development indicators place Iraq on the cusp of a new economic era, noting that the gross domestic product is pushing Iraq towards sustainable development faster than expected.

Salih said: "The fact that Iraq is the third economic power in West Asia among Arab countries in terms of GDP, after Saudi Arabia and the UAE, is an indicator that extends in two directions. The first is the accelerated ability to achieve significant development progress, confirming the unprecedented speed and development of our country in imposing the great economic and political stability that Iraq has achieved."

He added, "The second relates to the gross domestic product, and confirms, on the domestic level, that our country is an effective economic force in attracting investment opportunities in development areas, provided by the great stability environment in recent years, towards supporting sustainable development at a faster rate than expected."

He continued: "The urban renaissance and the launch of infrastructure and service programs are among the most important activities in government policy and its economic program, and they have not stopped due to their proven success in accelerating, so that our country occupies its geo-economic position as a promising path indicated by high rates of economic growth."

He pointed out that "the positive indicators we see in Iraq's favor among the economies of West Asia have established a new economic era for Iraq, which has begun to accumulate accelerated rates of development preceded by strong stability, which was (a necessary condition) for our country to occupy third place in GDP progress (as a sufficient condition) and with high cohesion."

The Prime Minister's advisor indicated that "the foundation of this cohesion has remained the effective participatory and institutional role of the three authorities: legislative, executive and legal, in overcoming the experience of the difficult years, to achieve the two pillars of the desired progress towards securing the future, and building a future of prosperity, stability and development, which has given the current government program the ability to achieve its positive goals in achieving widespread economic successes, without a doubt." https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=260900

Central Bank: We Are Committed To Building A More Inclusive And Equitable Digital Financial System.

Banks  Economy News – Baghdad  The Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) emphasized on Wednesday the importance of the media's role in supporting financial inclusion and spreading financial literacy, while also underscoring its commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable digital financial system.

In her speech at the Ninth Scientific Conference (Third International) of the College of Media at the University of Iraq, under the theme "Artificial Intelligence in Media:

Prospects for Innovation and Challenges of Cultural Dialogue," the bank's Assistant Head of Financial Affairs, Adhraa Taha Mohammed, said, "This conference reflects the bank's vision to promote financial inclusion, implement government directives toward the use of electronic payment methods, and the role of the media in spreading financial literacy."

She added, "Financial inclusion has become a pillar of economic and social development. It doesn't just mean individuals having access to banking services, but also empowering them to make smart financial decisions that contribute to improving their lives and supporting the stability of society as a whole.

" She emphasized that "the media's vital role is not limited to raising awareness, but extends to building a solid financial culture that enhances trust between citizens and financial institutions."

She explained that "the government's drive to promote the use of electronic payment methods has become an urgent necessity imposed by modern developments, which requires all parties, whether academics, journalists, or institutions, to work together to guide society."

She emphasized that "media colleges play a pivotal role in preparing media professionals capable of delivering financial messages in innovative and credible ways, bringing economic concepts closer to all segments of society, especially marginalized groups or those previously excluded from the traditional financial system."

She emphasized that "the Central Bank of Iraq is committed to actively participating in building a more inclusive and equitable digital financial system, and is opening doors to cooperation with universities, researchers, and all relevant parties to achieve this goal.

This can be achieved by: organizing workshops and seminars within universities to introduce students to the concepts and importance of electronic payments, providing technical and cognitive support for university research focused on digital transformation and digital finance, encouraging financial innovation among students by urging the financial sector to offer financial products and services tailored to the student segment, and offering accessible digital solutions.

It also aims to involve students in awareness campaigns as active contributors to spreading a responsible financial culture in society."

She concluded by saying, "This integration between the Central Bank and universities aims not only to increase the use of electronic payment tools, but also to create a financially and technically literate generation capable of leading the national economy toward greater progress and modernity."

 She emphasized that "investing in financial awareness within universities is an investment in Iraq's future and the best path to achieving true and sustainable digital financial inclusion." https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=54761

The Iraqi Stock Exchange Signs A Memorandum Of Understanding With The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange To Join The "Tabadul" Platform.

Stock Exchange   Economy News – Baghdad  The Iraq Stock Exchange and the Iraqi Securities Commission signed a strategic memorandum of understanding with the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) today, Wednesday, to join the Tabadul digital trading platform, becoming the platform's ninth member.

The Iraq Stock Exchange stated in a statement received by Al-Eqtisad News that "the signing ceremony was held at the headquarters of the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange.

This step comes within the framework of enhancing joint cooperation between the two sides, based on the preliminary agreement announced between the Iraqi Securities Commission and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange in January 2025, with the aim of enhancing joint cooperation between the capital markets of the two countries."

She continued, "The agreement aims to consolidate cooperation frameworks in various fields, including technology and innovation, developing trading and post-trade systems, and exchanging best practices and technologies in the trading field."

 She explained that "this memorandum will contribute to paving the way for investors and brokerage firms to trade directly and seamlessly between the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and the Iraq Stock Exchange, as the "Tabadul" platform enables brokerage firms in both markets to access other markets remotely, which contributes to strengthening the interconnection between the markets and enabling Iraqi investors to access regional and global investment opportunities."

She explained that "by leveraging the Tabadul platform, investors in member markets will be able to participate in initial public offerings (IPOs) among them, which will help highlight the benefits of cross-border trading and expand investment horizons."

The Chairman of the Iraqi Securities Commission, Faisal Al-Haimus, praised this step, stressing that "the Iraqi market's accession to the 'Tabadul' platform represents a qualitative shift in the development of the financial market infrastructure in Iraq."

He added, "This platform will enhance opportunities for regional partnerships and economic integration with Arab financial markets, contributing to broader horizons for investors and reflecting the Commission's commitment to supporting the digital transformation in the Iraqi financial market."

In turn, Jimmy Afham Toma, CEO of the Iraq Stock Exchange, said: "We are proud that the Iraq Stock Exchange has joined the Tabadul digital trading platform, as this represents an important step towards developing the Iraqi financial market and strengthening its integration with regional markets."

She noted that "this cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange aligns with the Iraqi government's efforts to promote economic growth and increase investment, which supports the government's goals of enhancing economic openness and developing financial infrastructure."

For his part, Abdullah Salem Al Nuaimi, CEO of the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange Group, said: "This memorandum of understanding marks a milestone in the cooperation between the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and the Iraq Stock Exchange."

He added, "This cooperation strengthens the Iraqi market's position within the regional ecosystem by increasing market activity and providing a wider range of opportunities for investors by enabling access to diverse investment options in companies listed on both markets."

He continued: "The platform also provides access to more than 7.5 million investors on member exchanges, and includes more than 490 listed companies. Trading activity between member financial markets doubled in 2025 compared to 2024, reflecting the platform's position in the regional financial landscape."

In addition to the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, the Tabadul platform currently includes a group of the region's most prominent exchanges, including the Bahrain Bourse, the Muscat Stock Exchange, the Astana International Exchange, the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange, the Central Asian Stock Exchange, the Armenian Stock Exchange, and the Amman Stock Exchange. Discussions are currently underway with a number of other financial markets to join the platform.

Tabadul provides a comprehensive range of trading opportunities to investors in member markets, through seamless and flexible solutions that support business development, expand investment opportunities, and contribute to promoting sustainable economic growth.

The Tabadul platform underscores the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange's commitment to developing advanced technological infrastructure and expanding investor access to markets through strategic partnerships with leading financial markets, particularly in Arab countries such as Iraq.

This will also contribute to enhancing liquidity, providing innovative trading solutions, and supporting the integration of financial markets at the regional and international levels. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=54763

Gold Falls In Baghdad And Erbil Markets

Wednesday, April 23, 2025 14:29 | Economic Number of reads: 204  Baghdad / NINA / The prices of Iraqi and foreign gold decreased on Wednesday in the local markets of Baghdad and Erbil, with the decline of the global gold ounce.

The selling prices of gold, in the wholesale markets on Al-Naher Street in Baghdad this morning, for one Mithqal of 21 karat Gulf, Turkish and European gold, were recorded at 680 thousand dinars, and the purchase price was 676 thousand dinars, while the selling price was 710 thousand dinars yesterday, Tuesday.

The selling price of one Mithqal of 21 karat Iraqi gold was recorded at 650 thousand dinars, and the purchase price was 646 thousand dinars, while the selling price yesterday, Tuesday, was 680 thousand dinars.

As for the prices of gold in goldsmiths, the selling price of one Mithqal of 21 karat Gulf gold ranges between 680 thousand and 690 thousand dinars, and the selling price of one Mithqal of Iraqi gold is between 650 thousand and 660 thousand dinars.

As for gold prices in Erbil, they also recorded a decrease, as 24-karat gold was sold for 797 thousand dinars, 22-karat gold was sold for 730 thousand dinars, 21-karat gold was sold for 697 thousand dinars, and 18-karat gold was sold for 597 thousand dinars. / End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1199704

Oil Prices Rise Again, With Brent Reaching $68 A Barrel.
economy | 08:56 - 04/23/2025  Mawazine News - Follow-up  Oil prices rose about 1 percent in early trading on Wednesday, extending the previous day's gains as investors assessed a new round of sanctions on Iran, falling U.S. crude inventories, and President Donald Trump's softening tone toward the Federal Reserve.

The market found support after Trump on Tuesday backed off his threats to fire Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, days after mounting criticism of him for not cutting interest rates. Trump also suggested the possibility of reducing tariffs on China.

Brent crude futures rose 61 cents, or 0.9 percent, to $68.05 a barrel by 00:07 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was at $64.27 a barrel, up 60 cents, or 0.94 percent. The United States imposed new sanctions on Iranian LNG and crude oil shipping tycoon Seyed Assadollah Emamjoumeh and his trading network on Tuesday.

The U.S. Treasury Department said in a statement that Emamjoumeh's network is responsible for shipping hundreds of millions of dollars of Iranian LNG and crude oil to foreign markets. Meanwhile, U.S. crude oil inventories fell by about 4.6 million barrels last week, market sources said Tuesday, citing data from the American Petroleum Institute.   https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=260882

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

“Vietnam News” Posted by Henig at KTFA 4-23-2025

KTFA:

Henig:  Hà Nội, Washington officially launch bilateral trade talks

April 23, 2025 - 22:18

Việt Nam attaches great importance to developing its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the US, and wishes to promote economic and trade relations in a balanced, stable, sustainable, and effective manner.

HÀ NỘI — Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyễn Hồng Diên, head of the Vietnamese government trade negotiation delegation, on Wednesday evening held a phone call with United States Trade Representative Jamieson L. Greer to officially launch talks on bilateral economic and trade issues between Việt Nam and the US.

This was an important working session to discuss the principles, scope, and roadmap for negotiations. Attending the call were members of the Government negotiation delegation and technical-level representatives from relevant ministries and agencies.

During the call, Minister Diên affirmed that Việt Nam attaches great importance to developing its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the US, and wishes to promote economic and trade relations in a balanced, stable, sustainable, and effective manner.

He emphasised that Vietnamese ministries and agencies are ready to negotiate and address US concerns, and to work with the US to find mutually beneficial solutions based on the spirit of harmonised interests and shared risks. For his part, US Trade Representative Jamieson L. Greer highly appreciated the two countries’ agreement to negotiate a bilateral trade agreement. He expressed confidence that the two sides would soon reach appropriate solutions to foster stable and mutually beneficial economic and trade relations.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the two Heads of Delegation also agreed to maintain regular communication at both the head-of-delegation and technical levels to expedite negotiations on specific issues. Việt Nam was among the countries hit with the highest rate of 'reciprocal tariffs' as announced by US President Donald Trump in early April, at 46 per cent.

 During a phone call taking place shortly afterwards, General Secretary Tô Lâm, Việt Nam's top leader, has told President Trump that Việt Nam can slash all tariffs against American goods into Việt Nam to zero per cent, while seeking for the US to do the same for Vietnamese goods. — VNS   LINK

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Henig:  Việt Nam will safeguard core interests while deepening US trade ties: PM

April 23, 2025 - 08:11

PM Chính reaffirmed that Vietnamese goods do not pose unfair competition to US industries, noting that bilateral trade has long been mutually beneficial, particularly for American consumers.

Việt Nam, he added, remains willing to negotiate on issues raised by the US, so long as its core interests are protected and its foreign policy principles upheld.

HÀ NỘI — Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính has urged ministries and local authorities to work in close coordination to swiftly address key concerns raised by the United States, as Việt Nam continues to pursue fair and sustainable trade relations, amid shifting global dynamics.

Chairing a Government meeting yesterday, the PM said the current challenges in global trade also present opportunities for Việt Nam to restructure its export base, diversify markets and supply chains, and boost product quality. He emphasised the need for a strategic shift towards high-tech, green and knowledge-based economic development, driven by digital transformation. Institutional reform, he noted, must go hand in hand with growth.

PM Chính directed ministries to tighten oversight in key areas such as origin traceability, anti-smuggling, commercial fraud prevention and the fight against counterfeit goods. He also called for a comprehensive review of tax refund mechanisms and demanded a reduction in administrative procedures, costs and processing times, aligned with Government resolution.

 To further support investment attraction, he ordered the immediate establishment of a national one-stop investment portal and investment promotion centres, at both national and provincial levels. These efforts aim to draw in high-quality, long-term investors, especially in technology and innovation. Such investors, the PM said, should not only bring capital, but also transfer technology, train human resources, invest in research and development and support Vietnamese enterprises in joining global supply and production chains.

This was the fifth high-level meeting chaired by PM Chính, to implement the Politburo’s and Party General Secretary Tô Lâm’s conclusions on adapting to the US’s evolving tariff policies and promoting deeper trade ties.

Following reports and discussions, the PM acknowledged Việt Nam’s timely and flexible response to the US’s tariff adjustments, first introduced under President Donald Trump. He said the country’s calm, strategic approach has produced tangible results and earned a positive response from Washington.

Within the framework of the Việt Nam–US Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, General Secretary Lâm held a phone call with President Trump and dispatched Deputy Prime Minister Hồ Đức Phớc and the Minister of Industry and Trade, as special envoys to engage US officials. Vietnamese leaders have also met with the US Ambassador, lawmakers, academics and business leaders to enhance mutual understanding.

Việt Nam has issued decrees to reduce certain tariffs on US imports, addressed long-standing issues in US-invested projects and taken steps to rebalance trade, such as increasing purchases of American-made aircraft, while staying within the bounds of Vietnamese law and bilateral agreements.

PM Chính reaffirmed that Vietnamese goods do not pose unfair competition to US industries, noting that bilateral trade has long been mutually beneficial, particularly for American consumers. Việt Nam, he added, remains willing to negotiate on issues raised by the US, so long as its core interests are protected and its foreign policy principles upheld. He tasked ministries and the negotiating team with thoroughly preparing for upcoming talks, ensuring alignment with the guidance of the Politburo, the General Secretary and the Government.

 He warned against introducing complications that could affect other markets or disrupt Việt Nam’s existing international commitments. The PM said that trade relations should be handled with calm, clarity and conviction. He underscored the importance of prioritising dialogue over confrontation, maintaining mutual respect and pursuing harmonised interests that serve the long-term benefit of both countries, particularly their businesses and consumers.

 He urged a focus on diversifying export markets, product lines and supply chains, improving product quality and cost efficiency and moving towards a high-tech, green, circular and knowledge-based growth model grounded in science, technology and digital transformation. — VNS   LINK

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

Henig:  Party leader receives Rosen Partners CEO

April 24, 2025 - 00:32

Rosen Partners informed General Secretary Tô Lâm on their investment plans, notably a project to build a world-class amusement park in Việt Nam, and committed to promoting cooperation in science and technology, artificial intelligence (AI)

HÀ NỘI — Party General Secretary Tô Lâm gave a reception in Hà Nội on Wednesday for Daniel Rosen, CEO of Rosen Partners – a privately held, industry-leading investment firm in the US.

Welcoming Rosen's return to Việt Nam on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the two countries’ diplomatic relations and the second year of the Việt Nam-US Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Lam expressed his pleasure at the strong developments in bilateral relations in recent times.

He reaffirmed that Việt Nam values the development of its relationship with the US and hopes the two sides will continue to deepen, enhance, and stabilise their cooperation in all fields, particularly in the areas of economy, trade, and investment, for the benefit of the people and businesses of both countries.

Assessing that Việt Nam and the US are two economies with complementary advantages, the Party chief said Việt Nam has an abundant workforce with a strong desire to contribute to and strive for progress, and rich natural resources, and places great emphasis on capital, technology, and high-tech products from the US. Rosen shared his impressions of witnessing the talent, entrepreneurial spirit, and the remarkable changes in Việt Nam, which, he said, have created favourable conditions and opened up more investment and business opportunities for US companies in the country.

He provided information about his company’s investment plans, notably a project to build a world-class amusement park in Việt Nam, and committed to promoting cooperation in science and technology, artificial intelligence (AI), as well as connecting Vietnamese scientists with their US and international counterparts, and building specific collaborative projects in areas such as science and technology, AI, and smart governance.

 Welcoming Rosen Partners' interest in investing in Việt Nam, General Secretary Lâm affirmed that the country is working to streamline its organisational apparatus and reorganise its administrative boundaries to expand space and facilitate development, in line with the country's goals for 2030 and 2045.

Việt Nam encourages investment in the development of culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges, and welcomes cooperation with other countries, including the US, in the field of science and technology, he said, urging the group to promote cooperation and invest in areas where the US has strengths and Việt Nam has needs, including high-quality agriculture, and human resources development and training.

 Rosen reaffirmed his commitment to making efforts to implement investment projects in Việt Nam, contributing to the development of Việt Nam and the Việt Nam-US relationship. — VNA/VNS  LINK

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Late Tuesday Evening 4-22-25

UN Official: Iraq Is Witnessing Remarkable Progress In Various Fields And The Importance Of Continuing Its Partnership With The United Nations.

Time: 04/22/2025 10:55:59 Read: 2,445 times  {Political: Al Furat News} The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Bilateral Relations, Mohammed Hussein Mohammed Bahr Al-Ulum, received today, Monday, at the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Baghdad, the Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations for Operational Support, Atul Khare, and his accompanying delegation, within the framework of joint coordination to implement UN Security Council Resolution No. (2732) regarding the termination of the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission to Iraq (UNAMI).

During the meeting, the Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs expressed, according to a statement from the ministry, a copy of which was received by {Euphrates News}, "the Iraqi government's appreciation for the important role played by the UNAMI mission since its establishment until today, stressing that the relationship between Iraq and the United Nations will enter a new phase of cooperation and partnership, based on the priorities of the next phase and the positive developments witnessed in Iraq."

The two sides discussed, according to the statement, "the mechanisms for implementing UN Security Council Resolution No. 2732, to ensure a smooth transition of the mission's tasks.

The Undersecretary affirmed Iraq's keenness to provide all facilities to ensure the implementation of this process in an organized manner, stressing Iraq's firm commitment to continuing constructive cooperation with the United Nations and its specialized agencies, based on its belief in the vital role played by the international organization in supporting stability and enhancing economic development efforts at the regional and international levels."

For his part, Khare praised the remarkable progress Iraq is witnessing in various fields and commended the Iraqi government's approach to consolidating internal stability and strengthening regional cooperation frameworks. He also emphasized the importance of continuing the partnership between Iraq and the United Nations as a fundamental pillar for supporting security and achieving sustainable development.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Khare expressed his appreciation for the Iraqi government's fruitful cooperation in the context of the gradual winding down of UNAMI's work, emphasizing that this cooperation represents a model of constructive coordination between member states and the United Nations.   LINK

Mr. Al-Hakim Calls For Encouraging Citizens To Deposit Their Money In Iraqi Banks.

Time: 2025/04/22 13:09:59 Read: 1,740 times  {Political: Al Furat News} The head of the National State Forces Alliance, Mr. Ammar al-Hakim, called for encouraging citizens to deposit their money in Iraqi banks.

A statement from his office, a copy of which was received by {Euphrates News}, stated that Mr. Al-Hakim received “this morning a number of Iraqi businessmen, headed by the head of the Iraqi Banks Association, Wadih Al-Handhal, and listened to their vision on reforming the banking sector in Iraq to keep pace with the state of urban and developmental progress in the country, and in all governorates.”

During the meeting, Mr. Al-Hakim stressed "the importance of keeping pace with global developments in this vital sector and linking the Iraqi banking system to the global banking system."

He called for "working to expand financial inclusion in banks, encouraging citizens to deposit their money in Iraqi banks, and turning this into a societal culture."

He pointed out the importance of granting loans to youth and the housing sector, as the latter stimulates many other productive sectors and provides job opportunities.  LINK

Kurdistan's Finance Ministry Announces The Transfer Of More Than 48 Billion Dinars Of Non-Oil Revenues To Baghdad.

Money and Business  Economy News – Baghdad  The Kurdistan Regional Government's Ministry of Finance and Economy announced on Tuesday that the federal treasury's share of non-oil revenues for March of this year has been transferred to the federal Ministry of Finance's account.

The ministry stated in a statement received by Al-Eqtisad News that “the transferred amount amounted to 48 billion, 205 million, and 765 thousand Iraqi dinars, and it was deposited in cash into the Federal Ministry of Finance’s bank account at the Erbil branch of the Central Bank of Iraq.”

The Kurdistan Regional Government's Ministry of Finance and Economy previously transferred approximately 52 billion dinars in non-oil revenues to the federal treasury in Baghdad in February. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=54714

An Expert Identifies The Missing Link To Diversifying Sources Of Income And Achieving Economic Reform.

Time: 2025/04/21 22:36:51 Read: 3,120 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} Economic expert Qusay Safwan identified the missing link in the path to diversifying sources of income and achieving economic reform in Iraq. He noted that controlling corruption begins with the banking sector and is linked to understanding revenue risks and the behavior of the Iraqi dinar at border crossings.


During his appearance on the "Free Talk" program on Al Furat TV channel this evening, Safwan explained that "economic diversification cannot be achieved without regulating these outlets, which are a tool for protecting local production and developing investment." He indicated that "reforming the financial sector requires rehabilitating banks through mergers, partnerships, and specialization."

He stressed that "these goals are still far off, and the real beginning lies in developing the human resources working in the banking sector, especially since most Iraqi banks focus their grants on the housing sector."

Safwan explained that "the Central Bank's policy is geared toward supporting financial inclusion, as 40% of individuals use electronic banks, a matter linked to suspicions of money laundering." He called for "providing incentives to credit card holders and motivating them through tax exemptions and import facilitation, which would enhance the conversion of the dinar into hard currency through the Central Bank."

He pointed out that "the Central Bank alone cannot reform the Iraqi economy in light of the lack of control over border crossings and the citizens' lack of trust in banks," emphasizing that "investing in technology is costly, but necessary and yields tangible benefits for shops and businesses."

Safwan revealed that "Iraq has $100 billion in the US Federal Reserve," emphasizing "the need to eliminate intermediaries and build a direct relationship between producers and consumers," warning that "corruption is greater than the support available at the outlets."

He added, "Private banks were established as joint-stock companies, and their shares are now denominated below the dinar mark and are available to all." He called on the Central Bank to "address the dispute between it and the Companies Registrar regarding dividend distribution, which is prompting small shareholders to sell their shares to major investors."

Safwan concluded by saying, "Government banks need a comprehensive restructuring to drive development and create investment portfolios for agricultural, industrial, and commercial cities." He also highlighted the need to integrate the local market with global markets, similar to the Gulf banks, and attract $350 billion domestically.  LINK

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Wednesday Morning 4-23-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

TRUMP WARNS: “PERFECT TIME” FOR FED RATE CUTS — WILL JEROME POWELL LISTEN?

▪️Trump clarified he won't fire Powell but strongly urges the Fed to cut rates, citing global easing.

▪️Markets reacted with cautious optimism, as trade tension easing and Trump's comments influenced Bitcoin and treasury yields.

▪️The Fed remains cautious, balancing inflation with potential tariff impacts, despite Trump's pressure for rate cuts.

The debate over Federal Reserve rate cuts is heating up again. President Donald Trump says he’s not firing Fed Chair Jerome Powell — but he’s clearly running out of patience. In classic Trump style, the message is direct, the pressure is rising, and the markets are watching closely.

Here’s what’s unfolding behind the scenes.

“Perfect Time” for Action, Says Trump

Speaking to reporters, Trump called it the “perfect time” for the Fed to lower interest rates. He dismissed growing speculation about Powell’s removal but didn’t hold back on criticism of the Fed’s slow pace.

“I’m not firing Powell,” Trump said, blaming the media for the rumors. But he added that Powell should be moving faster, especially as other global central banks are already easing their policies.

“He should act early or on time, not late,” Trump said, signaling that the Fed’s current approach could soon fall behind the curve.

Bitcoin Breaks $90K as Market Reacts

Despite Trump’s strong remarks, broader markets stayed steady. But Bitcoin surged past the $90,000 mark, boosted by optimism from both Trump’s comments and new statements from the U.S. Treasury Secretary, who called the trade war with China “unsustainable.”

Short-term Treasury yields edged up to 3.82% after a weak government bond auction, while the U.S. dollar held its ground. Investors appeared cautiously optimistic about easing trade tensions.

Analysts: Trump Is Managing Expectations

Analysts say Trump’s push for rate cuts might be more about shaping public expectations than actually threatening Powell’s role. While Trump says Powell is safe, his public pressure could serve to redirect blame if economic growth slows.

This isn’t the first time Trump has publicly criticized the Fed — and likely won’t be the last.

Fed Holds Course as Inflation Stays High

For now, the Federal Reserve is staying the course. Powell’s position appears secure, and Fed officials are focused on evaluating the long-term effects of Trump’s trade, tax, and immigration policies.

With inflation still running above the 2% target for the fourth year in a row, most Fed members believe current interest rates are appropriate.

Growth Risks Could Force a Rethink

Still, some economists warn that the ripple effects of Trump’s tariffs could slow growth later this year. If that happens, the Fed may have no choice but to revisit its stance.

Rate cuts may not be off the table — even if Powell continues to resist political pressure.

With Wall Street rebounding and Trump increasing his calls for action, one thing is clear: the Trump vs. Powell rate debate isn’t going away anytime soon.

For now, Powell keeps his seat and his stance — but the clock is ticking, and everyone knows it.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Coinpedia

~~~~~~~~~

XRP IS THE COIN WITH ‘THE MOST UTILITY,’ SAYS TEUCRIUM CEO

In an interview on Bloomberg Crypto with anchors Tim Stenovec and Katie Greifeld, Teucrium Trading’s chief executive officer (CEO) Sal Gilbertie argued that XRP is the crypto asset with “the most utility” in the entire space.

“Ripple’s a company of really professional people working really hard on this. That’s why we chose XRP. We believe in XRP. We’re not making a price prediction, but we do believe it’s a coin that will have the most utility out there. You know Bitcoin is a store of value […] but I think that XRP has a true use case,” Gilbertie remarked.

He further highlighted the professionality of the Ripple team which is a big reason the company believes in the crypto asset: “There’s just no doubt about it in the Ripple team from what the interaction we’ve had with them […] They act like investment bankers over there. They know what they’re doing and they will make this work.”

Teucrium’s 2x Long XRP ETF

Teucrium launched the first XRP-based exchange-traded fund (ETF) in the United States on April 8. The Teucrium 2x Long Daily XRP ETF, traded under the ticker XXRP on NYSE Arca, is a 2x leveraged fund aiming to provide twice the daily return of the token.

The ETF’s launch coincided with a sharp rebound in the underlying token. While Teucrium cannot see its shareholder register in real time, Gilbertie believes early flows reflect “a mix of professionals and retail trading their own accounts.” XXRP is engineered explicitly for intraday traders, he emphasized: 

“This specific product is geared toward traders who have a short-term view—primarily a one-day view—of what XRP’s price moves might be. This allows them in a traditional brokerage account to achieve leverage without a margin account.”

Gilbertie acknowledged that such magnified exposure is unsuitable for naïve investors. “Of course it’s risky. Leveraged funds are always risky and people need to be very careful,” he cautioned, adding: “I hope that the non-sophisticated traders do their homework first before they set foot in this.”

The conversation also illuminated a shifting regulatory atmosphere in Washington. Gilbertie contrasted the Securities and Exchange Commission’s current leadership with its prior stance under former Chair Gary Gensler, without naming him directly but characterizing the previous regime as “a blocker” to digital-asset innovation.

“The old SEC regime was a blocker…worked against the crypto industry,” he said. By contrast, the gap between administrations—during which newly confirmed Chair Paul Atkins and the fresh slate of commissioners were still settling in—created a moment when Teucrium’s application could proceed.

“We applied as soon as we could, meaning the old regime had left and wouldn’t block us, and we simply listed as soon as we could following the normal rules. The staff is really wonderful at the SEC…It’s the leadership that matters.”

XXRP’s methodology relies on daily rebalancing of swap positions to deliver twice the token’s move—up or down—over a single trading session. Compounding makes the fund unsuitable as a long-term proxy, an intrinsic feature common to all daily leveraged products but one the firm has gone to pains to highlight in its prospectus. Gilbertie underscored that message: “Volatility is the point. You want the action,” but traders must understand that the action cuts both ways.

For now, Gilbertie is betting that the community’s zeal, combined with a friendlier SEC stance, will keep volume humming. “We thought the time was right,” he concluded, “and so far the market seems to agree.”

At press time, XRP traded at $2.24.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Bitcoinist

~~~~~~~~~

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“Tidbits From TNT” Wednesday Morning 4-23-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  The Iraqi Stock Exchange joins the "Tabadul" platform in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange.

A memorandum of understanding was signed today, Wednesday, for the Iraq Stock Exchange to join the "Tabadul" platform, in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange.

During his participation in the signing ceremony, Faisal Al-Haimus, Chairman of the Iraqi Securities Commission, said, "Iraq's accession to the exchange platform represents a qualitative leap in the development of the Iraqi financial market infrastructure, strengthens regional economic partnerships, and opens new horizons for local and international investors."

At the end of 2024, the Authority's Chairman discussed with the CEO of the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange Group, Abdullah Salem Al Nuaimi, the signing of a joint cooperation agreement aimed at exchanging expertise and developing work mechanisms in the capital markets, according to a statement issued by the Iraqi Securities Commission.  link

Tishwash:  Talabani calls on Japan to expand its investments in the region.

Pavel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), received Akira Endo, Japanese Ambassador to Iraq, in Sulaymaniyah.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed the latest developments in the Middle East and emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to problems. Both sides agreed to expand cooperation and bilateral relations between the Kurdistan Region and Japan at all levels.

According to a statement from his media office, Talabani spoke about the active participation of Japanese companies and investors in the Kurdistan Region's markets, expressing hope that Japan would expand its investments in the Kurdistan Region to strengthen infrastructure and provide job opportunities.  link

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Tishwash:  The International Monetary Fund expects a decline in the inflation rate in Iraq.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicted in a report issued in April of this year the inflation rate for Arab countries, indicating that Iraq's inflation rate will decline slightly in 2025.

According to data reviewed by Shafaq News Agency, "the annual inflation rate in Iraq recorded 2.6% in 2024, compared to 4.4% in 2023 and 5% in 2022."

The IMF expects Iraq's inflation rate to decline slightly in 2025 to 2.5%, rise to 2.7% in 2026, and reach 3% in 2030.

According to the data, Bahrain is expected to experience the lowest inflation rate among Arab countries in 2025, at 1%, while Sudan will have the highest inflation rate, at 100%.  link

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

Tishwash:  MP: The budget cannot be delayed and Parliament will discuss it next week.

State of Law Coalition spokesman MP Aqeel Al-Fatlawi announced that Parliament will discuss the budget law next week .

Al-Fatlawi said, "The House of Representatives will discuss the budget law in next week's sessions. The budget cannot be halted or delayed. Rather, there is sufficient time to approve it before the end of the current parliamentary session." 

Last February, the House of Representatives voted on the draft law amending the first law of the Federal General Budget Law of the Republic of Iraq for the fiscal years (2023 - 2024 - 2025) No. (13) of 2023 link

Mot: .. when da ""Truth"" beeee Known!!!

Mot: Go to the petting zoo, they said. It'll be fun, they said.. 

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Tuesday Afternoon 4-22-25

Gold Reserves
 
Economic 04/20/2025  Mohammed Sharif Abu Maysam   Amid the ongoing tensions in the world and the Middle East,  purchasing gold is among the most important options for diversifying monetary reserves.
 
This is crucial to  counteracting political fluctuations that directly and indirectly impact the economy and the inflationary situation,  which impacts overall market prices,  including exchange rates and the prices of goods and services.  This is a key element in ensuring a significant national security instrument.
 
Gold is economically known as a safe haven against the volatility of currencies and prices in energy and other commodity markets under complex circumstances.

Accordingly, the components of monetary policy in our country (which was and still is under the influence of international and regional factors and variables, in addition to a set of internal data and speculation that is constantly returning to the forefront to have a significant impact on market movement and monetary stability) are in dire need of diversifying reserves and increasing their savings in gold,
 
which is distinguished from other reserves by its ability to maintain its material value under various circumstances.
 
The Central Bank of Iraq's recent announcement that Iraq possesses one of the highest gold reserves among Arab countries, at 162 tons, had a positive impact on observers and the general public.
 
It had a positive impact on public opinion on the street, increasing the confidence of the banking public and those following monetary policy.
 
This, in turn, establishes a public opinion that trusts the local currency and the national economy.
 
It is well established that gold has an advantage when compared to paper currency, which has no fixed assets.
 
This gives the national economy a high degree of stability and reliability, even in the event of shocks resulting from changes or decisions issued by international bodies that attempt to link the Iraqi economy to their own decisions.
 
The greater the gold reserve compared to cash reserves (which are supposed to be diversified),
the greater the ability of the person in charge of monetary policy to ward off any risks that may befall the economy,
while also activating the role of other real sectors and increasing their contribution to the gross domestic product.
 
In the context of our ambitions,
we hope that Iraq will occupy a prominent position on the list of countries with rising gold reserves.

This position not only provides monetary policymakers with flexibility in decision-making,
but also contributes to providing the overall economy with a buffer against anticipated economic problems amid the fluctuations witnessed in our region and the world.
 
It also strengthens national security,  which is linked to economic security.      https://alsabaah.iq/113123-.html    

Government Banking Reforms And Their Role In Bypassing Sanctions... A Banking Researcher Explains.
 
April 16, 2025  Baghdad/Iraq Observer   The Iraqi government, in cooperation with the Central Bank of Iraq, has prepared a plan of  (3) main objectives in cooperation with an American consulting company, (Olver & Amin), to
 
     reform and modernize the banking sector, with the aim of
     enhancing the protection of depositors and creditors and
     improving confidence in the sector,  after difficulties related to the transfer of funds and American restrictions.
 
After the sanctions, the term “messaging accounts” emerged.
 
Mustafa Hantoush, an expert in financial and banking affairs, confirms that  private banks have faced major problems, most notably US sanctions,  which necessitated a detailed study to change the situation affecting these banks.
 
Speaking to the Iraq Observer, Hantoush said, “Regarding  the private banking sector, which has faced problems over the past three years related to US sanctions,  the term ‘correspondent accounts’ emerged as Iraqi banks faced operational disruptions, and the state attempted to address the situation in collaboration with an American consulting firm called Oliver & Amin.”

He added,  "The American firm Oliver & Amin conducted studies on sanctioned Iraqi banks over a five-month period and submitted a three-point report, the  first of which is that companies with real capital can develop themselves and circumvent sanctions by opening future accounts with JPMorgan."

 He continued, "While there are private banks that lack the necessary capabilities, they are merging with international banks, which is a step available to them." He added, "Regarding the third point, which concerns banks facing liquidity problems, they may face collapse and exit the sector."

He pointed out that “the steps to amend (government banks) have begun to accelerate towards the step of establishing Rafidain and Rashid Banks, but the special nature of these banks remains that they have large international obligations, including those related to debts during the Iran-Iraq war.

However, at the same time, a huge bank will be formed through these banks, stronger than the TBI, and
it will be the hand of the new state to enter into banking operations.”
 
The person in charge of financial and banking affairs stated that "the government established the First Rafidain Bank, which contributes 24% to the state and 76% to the private sector."
 
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani had previously sponsored the Iraqi Banking Sector Reform Conference, emphasizing that the government assumed responsibility amid a complex economic climate that required measures to achieve stability and ensure growth.

He pointed to the achievements made in the financial, banking, and economic sectors,
which represented positive steps toward establishing a solid foundation for development and investing in stability.     https://observeriraq.net/الاصلاحات-المصرفية-الحكومية-ودورها-ب/ 

The Central Bank Concludes Its Session On The Basel Committee's Decisions.
 
April 21, 2025   The Banking Studies Center at the Central Bank of Iraq concluded its course on the Basel Committee’s decisions and the  Self-Assessment of Capital Adequacy (ICAAP) in accordance with the second pillar of Basel (3) decisions.
 
(53) trainees from the departments of Finance, Risk, Internal Audit, Credit, and Compliance in a number of Iraqi banks participated in the course.
 
The training program for the participants included a complete vision of the Basel Committee’s decisions (3), especially the second pillar of those decisions related to the
 
self-assessment of capital adequacy, as well as identifying the practices related to calculating (ICAAP)
to reach an understanding of the skills of assessing capital adequacy.    
Central Bank of Iraq      Media Office      April 21, 2025  https://cbi.iq/news/view/2858 

Tax Reform: A Step Towards Diversifying Revenues And Achieving Justice.
 
Economic 04/16/2025  Baghdad: Nour Najah Abdullah  Given the economic challenges facing the country,   tax reform is at the top of government policy priorities.
 
It is a crucial step toward reducing reliance on oil revenues, which continue to constitute the backbone of the general budget.
 
Although tax revenues in Iraq do not exceed 1 to 2 percent of GDP—a low figure compared to international standards—
 
there is broad consensus among experts on the need to move forward with comprehensive and radical reforms that will contribute to building a fair, effective, and balanced tax system.

Financial and economic experts believe that the starting point for reform is to expand the tax base to include all economic activities, whether in the formal or informal sector, while ensuring that the liberal professions and the service and commercial sectors contribute to the public treasury.
 
This requires a comprehensive update of taxpayer records, through the creation of an accurate central database encompassing individuals, companies, and institutions, enabling the tracking of income and the accurate and transparent assessment of tax liabilities.
 
Experts stress the importance of adopting a progressive tax system that imposes higher rates on high-income and large-profit individuals, while granting tax exemptions or reductions to low-income families and individuals.
 
This is intended to achieve social justice and reduce the economic gap between social classes. 

Amending Income Tax Law No. 113 of 1982 is also urgent, given its outdated provisions and their failure to keep pace with the economic and financial transformations that Iraq has witnessed over the past decades.
 
Speaking to Al-Sabah, economic expert Nabil Jabbar Al-Tamimi argues that  true reform can only be achieved through a radical change in the legislative and institutional structure.
 
He calls for rewriting tax laws to align with the nature of the contemporary Iraqi economic system, and for the establishment of a new authority built from scratch and managed by young cadres who have never worked within the traditional tax system, but rather possess academic qualifications and experience in global tax systems.

Al-Tamimi also emphasizes the need to fully automate the system and utilize technology in all aspects of the process, from assessment to collection, to enhance efficiency and transparency and reduce the opportunities for manipulation and corruption.
 
For his part, economic expert Ziad Al-Hashemi told Al-Sabah that the most prominent challenges facing the tax system in Iraq are the outdated legislation and administrative mechanisms in place, which have led to weak tax coverage and declining collection efficiency.

 He believes that modernizing the system requires simplifying procedures, increasing the efficiency of staff, developing internal oversight tools, and enhancing transparency in the relationship between citizens and the state, which will reduce tax evasion rates and increase voluntary compliance.

Financial expert Safwan Qusay points out that tax justice cannot be achieved without accurately digitizing and documenting income across various sectors, including agriculture, trade, and services, while raising exemption limits for individuals and poor families to protect them from the negative effects of the reform.
 
He suggests tracking the bank accounts of companies and individuals to verify sources of income and spending patterns, which would contribute to building a clear picture of taxpayers' financial solvency. In a statement to Al-Sabah,
 
he called for linking the tax to citizens' desires for public spending, so that a percentage of it would be directed to specific sectors such as education or health, based on the taxpayer's choices.
 
This would enhance community oversight and confidence in the effectiveness of the tax system.
 
In contrast, Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, the Prime Minister's advisor for financial affairs, confirms that the government has already launched eight tax reform packages, the most important of which are the  
introduction of new segments of market forces that previously evaded taxes, and the adoption of electronic collection to reduce friction between citizens and employees.
 
Saleh compares Iraq to countries like Denmark, where income tax amounts to approximately 46 percent of GDP.
 
This explains the ability of those countries to fund high-quality education, health, and social security.
 
In Iraq, this percentage does not exceed 2 percent, reflecting the fragility of the tax base and the continued overreliance on oil revenues.
 
Saleh points out that the government's program aims to increase non-oil revenues to 20 percent of total public revenues in the near future, up from the current rate of only about 7 percent.
 
This will be achieved by expanding the taxable population, adopting modern technological systems, and amending legislation, including the Income and Property Tax Law, which has not been updated in more than four decades.
 
Despite the clarity of the reform vision and the multitude of initiatives, challenges remain, most notably the lack of trust in tax institutions, the inadequacy of technical infrastructure, and the absence of a culture of voluntary compliance among broad segments of society.
 
Furthermore, there is a lack of good governance in directing tax revenues toward development spending.
 
Observers believe that success in this vital issue will only be achieved through strong political will, profound administrative reform, and an effective partnership with the private sector and civil society to build a modern and fair tax system that keeps pace with Iraq's aspirations for development and economic stability.      https://alsabaah.iq/112971-.html   

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