Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Morning 5-5-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

SAY NO TO CRYPTO LEGISLATION, SENATOR WARREN URGES SENATE ON SHADY TRUMP DEAL

Senator Elizabeth Warren has criticized the Trump family’s involvement in the crypto industry, particularly the newly launched USD1 stablecoin.

▪️ Backed by US Treasuries, USD1 will reportedly serve as the settlement currency for a $2 billion investment from Abu Dhabi-backed MGX.
▪️ Warren has raised alarm about the GENIUS Act, which aims to establish a US regulatory framework for stablecoins.
▪️ She alleges the bill could facilitate financial profiteering by Trump and his associates, labeling it as a move that "greenlights corruption".

US Senator Elizabeth Warren has raised major red flags about Donald Trump’s association with the crypto industry and the recent $2 billion deal backed by the United Arab Emirates, calling it a pathway to huge corruption. As a result, she has urged the US Senate to stop the crypto legislation and the GENIUS Act, ahead of this week.

Senator Warren Attacks USD1 Stablecoin

In her fresh attack on the Trump family, Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren referred to the newly launched USD1 stablecoin, backed by short-term US Treasuries. This stablecoin has been issued by Donald Trump’s DeFi project, World Liberty Financial.

The global stablecoin market currently surpasses $245 billion in circulation. According to CoinGecko, USD1 ranks seventh among stablecoins, with most being backed by short-term US Treasuries and other real-world debt instruments.

World Liberty’s USD1 will play a pivotal role as the settlement currency for MGX’s $2 billion investment in Binance, the global cryptocurrency exchange.

Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund is backing MGX, with Witkoff publicly announcing the deal last week during a crypto convention in Dubai, seated alongside Eric Trump.

Stop Crypto Legislation aka GENIUS Act

Senator Elizabeth Warren has been actively questioning Donald Trump’s association with the crypto industry, adding that the President and his peers are filling up their pockets by bending the rules.

While referring to the crypto legislation aka the GENIUS Act last week, which seeks to establish the first US regulatory framework for stablecoins, Senator Warren said:

“This is a bill that would make it even easier for the president and his family to profit off their own stablecoin and oversee their own financial company.”

While further questioning the Senate’s inaction in a Trump-associated crypto deal, Senator Warren called it “corruption in plain sight”. She warned that by advancing related legislation, lawmakers are effectively “greenlighting the grift.”

The GENIUS Act bill, sponsored by Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), gained bipartisan backing in March when it passed the Senate Banking Committee and is set for a floor vote this week.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  CoinSpeaker

~~~~~~~~~

CARDANO JOINS LINUX FOUNDATION’S CONFIDENTIAL COMPUTING CONSORTIUM

Cardano has become the newest member of the Linux Foundation’s Confidential Computing Consortium (CCC), a move that places the open-source blockchain alongside tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon in the fast-growing arena of hardware-based data protection.

The announcement came during a one-hour “Midnight Booth” fireside chat at Consensus, where Charles Hoskinson (CEO of Input Output) and Eran Barak (CEO of the Midnight development company) laid out how confidential computing will anchor Cardano’s privacy-first sidechain, Midnight.

“We just recently joined the Confidential Computing Consortium... We’re right there with Microsoft and Amazon with Nitro,” Hoskinson told the audience.

Cardano’s Entry into Hardware-Based Privacy

The CCC sets cross-industry specifications for enclave-based security. Cardano’s membership signals an intent to align Midnight’s zero-knowledge roll-ups and DID (Decentralized Identifier) stack with emerging hardware security standards rather than relying purely on cryptographic approaches.

“Midnight basically clicks into all of those different things… you actually get paid for sharing these things as opposed to it all goes to the Magnificent Seven,” said Hoskinson, referencing dominant Big Tech firms.

Cardano Takes Next Step in Secure Blockchain

Hoskinson traced the inspiration for Midnight to “a bar in Tel Aviv” during Eurocrypt 2018, where a debate on zero-knowledge proofs matured into a new sidechain project featuring:

• A Stark-based execution engine (“Kachina”)

• A dual-token economic model:

• “Knight” for governance

• “Dust” for metered capacity

• Selective-disclosure controls using W3C DIDs

“Enterprise adoption hinges on hardware-rooted trust,” said Barak.
“Confidential computing supplies that final layer.”

Why Confidential Computing Matters

“When you think about protecting your data, you really need to protect the data and the metadata,” said Barak.

By joining the CCC, Cardano gains influence in shaping:

• Chipset specifications

• Enclave attestation protocols

• Open-source reference code

Midnight aims to become the secure foundation that enables AI to access private data without violating user rights.

Regulatory Design: The Two-Asset Model

The session highlighted Midnight’s design that splits volatile and stable components:

• “Knight” = value-accruing governance token

• “Dust” = stable, non-speculative usage token

“You get your cake and eat it, too… developers can pay in Bitcoin or Ether or Solana... end users won’t notice they’re using a different system,” said Hoskinson.

This sidesteps common regulatory concerns seen in privacy coins like Monero, by separating consensus incentives from fee mechanisms.

Hardware-Backed Privacy for Compliance

Confidential computing strengthens blockchain privacy at the hardware level:

• Enclave-based execution seals wallet keys, ZK circuits, and DID registries

• Cryptographic attestation allows regulators to verify compliance

“Selective disclosure is an absolute necessity,” Hoskinson emphasized.
“Disclosure rules can be embedded in smart contracts, and exchanges decide compliance.”

Looking Ahead: Tokenized Assets and Enterprise Use

Cardano’s CCC membership coincides with a growing push toward tokenizing real-world assets, a market Hoskinson estimates at:

• $10+ trillion today

• $100 trillion in the future

Midnight must interoperate with both legacy financial venues (e.g., NYSE) and on-chain liquidity pools.

“You want broker-dealers, compliance, circuit breakers, and blockchain tech... Midnight is the only way to really do that,” he said.

2,000+ Builders Already on Midnight

Barak reported over 2,000 testnet developers building projects including:

• Dark-pool trading prototypes

• Encrypted medical record systems

• Jet engine carbon-credit tracking

Because code/state is encrypted, even IO’s team cannot inspect what is deployed—ensuring privacy-first development.

“If we finally bring blockchain technology with privacy businesses actually need, the innovation is just unbelievable,” Barak concluded.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Bitcoinist

~~~~~~~~~

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MilitiaMan & Crew: Iraqi Dinar Update-Truth no Rumours-Transparency-International Institutions & Oracle Flexcube global

MilitiaMan & Crew:  Iraqi Dinar Update-Truth no Rumours-Transparency-International Institutions & Oracle Flexcube global

5-4-2025

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=eOPDQd5rS-E

The U.S. Is 80% Broke, And No One Realizes It, The Fed Caused This, and Can’t Fix It | Chris Whalen

The U.S. Is 80% Broke, And No One Realizes It, The Fed Caused This, and Can’t Fix It | Chris Whalen

Soar financially:  5-4-2025

In this explosive episode, Chris Whalen, Chairman of Whalen Global Advisors and Wall Street veteran, delivers an unfiltered breakdown of what’s next for the U.S. economy.

From the Fed’s policy blunders to a looming 20% housing market correction, Chris lays out what most analysts refuse to say.

 We cover the fintech credit crisis, inflation’s true cause, commercial real estate’s silent implosion, and why gold is set to become a central bank favourite again. Buckle up — this one’s packed.

00:00 - Gold Can’t Absorb a Market Exodus

00:52 - Meet Chris Whalen

02:00 - Global Outlook: Europe vs U.S.

 03:40 - Are We Near Recession?

05:00 - The Fed’s Hubris & Debt Fallout

07:00 - 20% Housing Price Crash Coming

 09:00 - Mortgage Rates at 7%: What It Means

12:00 - Why the Fed Missed Its Chance

14:00 - Rent-to-Own, FHA, and Housing Stress

 16:00 - Inflation vs. Stagflation Debate

18:00 - Trump, Fed Politics, and Treasury Moves

19:30 - Jobs Report Surprises & What It Signals

 21:00 - Big Government vs. Shrinking Private Sector

22:30 - Fintech, Credit Risks, and Buy Now Pay Later

25:00 - Market Outlook, Valuations, and Gold Strategy

 29:00 - Gold, Basel III, and Silver as Reserve Assets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgL8rPuhvYE

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Sunday Afternoon 5-4-25

Finance: Rafidain And Rashid Banks Maintain High Liquidity And Cash Reserves That Exceed The Ratios Set By The Central Bank.
 
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:06 | Economic     Number of readings: 359  Baghdad / NINA / The Ministry of Finance confirmed:
 
"Rafidain and Rashid banks maintain high liquidity and cash reserves that exceed the percentages set by the Central Bank." The ministry said in a statement:

"Referring to what was circulated by some media outlets and social media platforms,
 
and what was attributed to a number of MPs regarding the government withdrawing the balances of Rafidain and Rashid banks,
 
there are those who understand the political competition, whether ignorantly or intentionally, as the promotion of lies and rumors or an attempt to spread false information with the aim of incitement and spreading confusion, and
 
 this is what the government considers the worst type of electoral discourse, because it evades moral responsibility."

She explained:  "The funds withdrawn do not represent citizens' deposits or insurance balances in banks, but rather belong to the Ministry of Finance's sovereign accounts.
 
They were kept in those banks as a temporary operating tool, and 
after the need for them ceased, and in accordance with financial and administrative instructions, they were transferred to be reallocated within the general budget."

She added:  "Comparing these measures to the experiences of banking collapses in other countries is inaccurate and ignores the unique legal and regulatory structure of the Iraqi banking sector, which is subject to the supervision of the Central Bank and applies strict regulations in the field of compliance and governance." She pointed out that:
 
"Rafidain and Rashid Banks maintain high liquidity and cash reserves that exceed the percentages set by the Central Bank, and  they perform their duties regularly in disbursing salaries, financing projects, and fulfilling obligations to customers."

 She pointed out that Rafidain Bank's legal reserves at the Central Bank currently stand at approximately 9 trillion Iraqi dinars, reflecting the strength of its financial position.
 
“In recent days, some have resorted to feeding some local agencies, news pages and social media bloggers that the government has resorted to withdrawing Rafidain Bank’s reserves in order to fill the liquidity shortage,” she continued, explaining:
 
“The latest letter issued by the Central Bank of Iraq, dated April 24, proves beyond doubt that Rafidain Bank’s unused mandatory reserves have reached 4 trillion and 277 billion dinars, while
 
the used reserves have reached 4 trillion and 263 billion dinars.

Thus, Rafidain Bank’s total reserves at the Central Bank
exceed 8 trillion and 540 billion dinars, as
they have not been touched in any way, shape or form.” The ministry explained, "The
 
thefts that previously affected some trust accounts
occurred because these funds were left unattended for long periods,
creating technical loopholes that were exploited by corrupt networks.
 
New oversight measures have been implemented in
coordination between the bank and the Ministry of Finance to mitigate these risks."  The Ministry of Finance stressed that:
 
“Criticism that resorts to falsifying facts and spreading information that has no basis in truth is a destructive act that seeks to undermine the government’s achievements that citizens have witnessed in various fields,” indicating that:
 
“The levels of financial and economic transparency that the
government is working with are an unprecedented path,
 
witnessed by major international financial institutions, and they have
 
     raised the
          level of Iraq’s credit rating and
          confidence in its economy,
     attracted global investments, and are now
          creating job opportunities and
          fueling development,
 
after the Iraqi economy was captive to rent and dependence on oil.” She stressed that
 
"the government will continue  
 
     its approach to economic reform,
     strengthening
          banking operations, and
          financial management,
 
and will not stop at cheap lies aimed at disrupting and undermining the trust citizens have placed in the government's approach and objectives."
 
The Ministry called on all media professionals and social media users to be accurate and assume national responsibility when addressing financial issues, stressing that the doors of the Ministry and banks are open to anyone who wishes to have a professional look at official data and reports.   https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1224345  

Al-Kadhimi Explains The Government's Motives For Using Tax Trust Funds.
 
    May 3, 17:50  Information / Special..  Parliamentary Finance Committee member Moeen Al-Kadhimi revealed on Saturday that
 
delays in financial transfers from the US Federal Reserve were the primary reason behind the
Ministry of Finance resorting to using tax deposit funds to secure employee salaries and cover basic expenses.
 
Al-Kadhimi told Al-Maalouma News Agency that
 
"the weak flow of funds from oil sales revenues held in Iraq's account at the US Federal Reserve has led the Ministry of Finance to resort to using tax deposit funds to secure employee salaries for April and the coming months."  He explained that
 
"Iraq sells approximately 3.3 million barrels of oil daily, and
the proceeds are deposited in a special account at the US Federal Reserve.
 
However, these funds are not transferred directly domestically,
but rather are disbursed via remittances directed to traders to import various goods."  He pointed out that
 
"some of these remittances are delayed,
leading to a decline in the flow of Iraqi dinars into the local market,
 
thereby impacting the ability of the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank to meet internal obligations, most notably salaries."  He added that
 
"the Minister of Finance submitted a request during the Cabinet meeting to withdraw these funds," noting that
 
"this measure is legally permissible, provided that the amounts are returned to tax funds before the expiration of the legal five-year deadline."
 
It is noteworthy that the Council of Ministers had previously authorized, by an official decision,
the Minister of Finance to withdraw tax deposits that had been deposited less than five years ago, to finance and pay salaries for April and the following months. End 25D    
  
https://almaalomah.me/news/97694/economy/الكاظمي-يوضح-دوافع-لجوء-الحكومة-لاستخدام-أموال-الأمانات-الضر   

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

Iraqi Dinar Breaking News: Iraqi Bank to Launch in America, Massive Shift for Iraqi Dinar and Dollar Transfers

Iraqi Dinar Breaking News: Iraqi Bank to Launch in America, Massive Shift for Iraqi Dinar and Dollar Transfers

5-3-2025

In a move that could significantly impact the Iraqi Dinar (IQD) and strengthen financial ties between the United States and Iraq, Iraq is officially launching its first bank in the U.S.

This landmark event, backed by the Central Bank of Iraq and the U.S. Treasury, is poised to revolutionize how IQD is handled and offer unprecedented opportunities for those holding the currency.

For years, navigating the complexities of exchanging IQD for USD has been a challenge, often involving third-party intermediaries and potential risks. This new bank aims to streamline the process and provide a secure, legitimate channel for converting IQD to USD directly on American soil.

This launch represents a significant vote of confidence in the Iraqi economy and its currency. The regulatory approvals from both the Central Bank of Iraq and the U.S. Treasury underscore the importance of this initiative for strengthening bilateral financial relations.

For individuals holding Iraqi Dinar, this new bank offers a legitimate and potentially more profitable avenue for managing their assets. The direct exchange rates and reduced fees could significantly improve the return on investment for IQD holders.

It’s crucial to stay informed about the bank’s operational details, verification processes, and exchange rates to make informed decisions.

The launch of Iraq’s first official bank in the United States is a groundbreaking development with the potential to reshape the landscape of Iraqi Dinar transactions and deepen the economic relationship between the U.S. and Iraq.

Whether you are an existing IQD holder or simply observing Iraq’s economic progress, this is a pivotal moment that warrants close attention. By facilitating direct exchanges, eliminating middlemen, and providing secure redemption options, this bank is poised to become a game-changer for the Iraqi Dinar and a testament to Iraq’s growing financial stability.

Watch the video below from Iraqi Dinar Breaking News for more information.

https://youtu.be/dfgIM6YkV3g

https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/05/03/iraqi-dinar-breaking-news-iraqi-bank-to-launch-in-america-massive-shift-for-iraqi-dinar-and-dollar-transfers/

“Tidbits From TNT” Sunday 5-4-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Al-Nusairi: Comprehensive banking reform means modernizing and developing banks, ensuring their compliance with international standards, and transitioning to a rapidly growing economy.

Economic and banking advisor Samir Al-Nusairi confirmed that the banking reform project launched by the Central Bank last month in cooperation with the government and the global consulting firm Oliver Wyman was held at a ceremony attended by the Prime Minister.

Al-Nusairi said in a televised interview followed by "Al-Eqtisad News" that the banking reform project aims primarily, within the specified timeframes, to modernize and develop the private banking sector, comply with international standards, transition to a rapidly growing national economy, expand digital transformation, enhance financial inclusion, stimulate electronic payments, strengthen cybersecurity, use artificial intelligence to analyze and ensure the transparency of banking data, create a financial center, and authorize and license digital banks.

 He added that it achieves stimulating and sustainable returns for investors, creates a fair competitive environment in the banking market, and restores confidence in the banking sector.

He explained that the private banking sector achieved good business results in 2024, despite 50% of our banks being subject to sanctions and restrictions on the use of the US dollar. The ratio of credit granted to deposits reached 67.9%, which means the banks are moving towards the real work of financing and investing in deposits. The banks’ capital rose to 20 trillion dinars, an increase of 8.7% due to the implementation of the Central Bank’s instructions to raise capital to 400 billion dinars and setting September 30, 2025 as the deadline for increasing the capital of the remaining banks.

Al-Nusairi pointed out that the objectives set for banking reform are in line with the main and sub-objectives of the Central Bank's third strategy for the years 2024-2026, which comprises 7 main objectives, 24 sub-objectives, and 75 initiatives to achieve these objectives. The Central Bank's management is working to implement them in accordance with approved policies and programs and in cooperation with relevant authorities.  link

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

Tishwash:  An economist proposes solutions to address the liquidity shortage in Iraq.

Financial and economic affairs expert Ahmed Abdel Rabbo proposed solutions on Saturday to address the liquidity crisis in Iraq, after the Iraqi government withdrew funds from tax deposits. He pointed out that Al-Sudani's government needs a firm will to make bold decisions to prevent the country from sliding into a stifling cash crisis.

Abdel Rabbo said in a press statement followed by (Al-Mada) that "after withdrawing 3.045 trillion dinars from tax deposits to cover salaries, the liquidity crisis in Iraq appears more urgent than ever, which requires urgent government action with a balanced financial formula."\

He added, "Unnecessary expenditures must be rescheduled and non-urgent projects, such as bottleneck projects, postponed to direct resources towards top priorities, and short-term government bonds must be issued to the Central Bank and local banks as a quick internal solution without getting involved in external debt."

He explained that "among the quick solutions are tightening control over foreign bank transfers, regulating the sale of dollars, restoring confidence in local banks, and launching urgent tax collection campaigns targeting large arrears from companies and importers to boost non-oil revenues."

The financial and economic expert stressed the need for "immediate diplomatic action with Washington to ensure the continued flow of oil revenues without disruption or delay, in addition to offering savings bonds to citizens with incentives to attract the dormant cash flow outside the banking system."

Abdel Rabbo concluded by saying, "At such critical moments, Al-Sudani's government does not need lengthy deliberations, as much as it needs a firm executive will, capable of making bold decisions that preserve the financial balance and prevent the country from slipping into a stifling currency crisis, the repercussions of which could accelerate within weeks."  link

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

Tishwash:  The Iraqi economy and the risks of limited diversification

Dr. Haitham Hamid Mutlaq Al-Mansour

The Iraqi economy is experiencing a gap between the government's efforts to promote growth on the one hand, and the structural challenges that hinder growth and stability on the other. Although Iraq possesses enormous oil wealth, ranking third in the world in oil reserves, its near-total dependence on crude oil exports, which account for more than 90% of general budget revenues, makes it vulnerable to global market fluctuations and hinders the diversification of its production base.

This limits its resilience to external shocks and limits the national economy's response to reform requirements.

Overall activity indicates that the Iraqi economy is witnessing development in oil production infrastructure, such as joint ventures with international companies in the Majnoon and West Qurna fields, for example. This has led to an increase in total production to approximately 3.5 million barrels per day since the end of 2023, with plans to reach 5 million barrels in the coming years.

This is in addition to improved resource management following the approval of the Oil and Gas Law, which has not yet been fully implemented. Meanwhile, we are witnessing an expansion in investment in reconstruction projects in cities such as Mosul and Basra, supported by foreign investment, particularly from the Gulf, and the development of the Grand Faw Port, a strategic project to stimulate foreign trade.

On the other hand, we see a limited trend toward diversification in a few sectors, limited to limited government plans for developing agriculture and industry, such as supporting local production in the food sector, and the launch of the National Development Strategy 2020-2030, which witnessed weak implementation according to the World Bank's assessment. In terms of international economic relations, the use of the Chinese yuan instead of the dollar in oil trade with China is noted, as are agreements with neighboring countries such as Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia to establish joint industrial zones.

But one of the most prominent challenges facing economic growth and economic reform in general is the scourge of financial and administrative corruption. Iraq ranks low on the Transparency International Index (ranked 154th out of 180). According to World Bank estimates, 30% of the budget is eroded annually due to corruption. Meanwhile, the employment index suffers from high levels of unemployment and disguised unemployment. The unemployment rate exceeds 15%, reaching 30% among youth. This is due to increasing levels of public spending, its high contribution to total employment, and the prevalence of disguised unemployment among more than 4 million employees. Inflation is also expected to rise to approximately 7% by the end of 2024.

After oil prices witnessed a decline due to global demand resulting from the slowdown in Chinese growth and the rise in US interest rates, this affected budget revenues and increased the 2024 budget deficit, which was approved at 198 trillion dinars (about $152 billion), with an expected deficit of 48 trillion dinars (24%), increasing reliance on domestic borrowing.

This brought the domestic public debt to 80 trillion dinars (about $55 billion). Due to the inflation rate, which rose to 7.5% in 2024 compared to 6% in 2023, the value of the dinar decreased against the dollar with the increase in demand for imports due to the lack of flexibility of the local production base. Therefore, the Central Bank took measures to raise the interest rate to 7.5%, in addition to raising the legal reserve ratio from 15-18% and tightening controls on dollar transfers to combat smuggling and money laundering.

Not long ago, the Central Bank's foreign reserves were also witnessing a significant decline, according to the bank's own statistics. The decline reached $7.5 billion as a result of compensatory sterilization measures to mitigate the decline in dollar supply on the parallel market, posing a threat to the government's long-term inflation shield.

Given the real distortions in the Iraqi economy that affect the structure of aggregate demand, spending, and investment, with serious repercussions for the business sector, and in light of the limited government interventions and the expected continued decline in global oil prices, one of the important steps to ensure the success of the economic reform process is to emphasize the reduction of rentierism through the following:

Develop a foreign investment strategy in specific, productive sectors, with a clear plan, objectives, and tools for investment, implementation, oversight, and anti-corruption, including the oil, petrochemical, extractive, and mining sectors.

Strengthening the investment strategy by issuing a package of laws that attract foreign investment and implementing real reforms to raise the expected level of marginal capital efficiency, which will directly impact the movement and direction of private capital and increase its productivity in the sectors mentioned in the first point.

Directing oil revenue savings to investments in infrastructure, education, health, housing, industry, and agriculture, and expanding the scope of derivative investments.

Rationalizing public spending policy and taking measures to ensure financial control and financial sustainability of the depleting economic resource, and coordinating with monetary policy to reform the banking sector and facilitate investment financing through banks to achieve stability and growth.

These signals are likely to achieve economic reform in the financial and real markets, and subsequently increase economic growth through financial compensation from investment returns, reducing the general budget deficit, and enhancing the government's ability to expand non-oil GDP and absorb external shocks.

 This will then increase the sustainability of domestic public debt and achieve low and stable inflation. Otherwise, the Iraqi economy will reach a crossroads: either embark on diversification and stability, or continue its dependence on oil, with the risks of rents and instability   link

Mot:  -- the Story of the ""Hare and Tortoise"" and the ""RV Well of Endless Hope""

Once upon a time, deep in the heart of a quiet forest, lived two unlikely friends: Hare and Tortoise. Hare was a blur of energy, always darting from place to place. Tortoise, slow and thoughtful, preferred the steady path.

One fateful season, a terrible drought gripped the land. The once-green forest faded to shades of brown. Rivers vanished, leaves withered, and the animals grew weak with hunger and thirst. Even Hare—usually full of bounce and chatter—sat slumped beneath a dying tree, his spirit as parched as the earth.

Tortoise noticed. “My friend,” he said gently, “don’t lose heart. Even in the darkest moments, there is a way forward.”

Hare sighed. “But how? The streams are gone. The sun burns everything. There’s no end in sight.”

Tortoise’s eyes gleamed with quiet determination. “They say beyond the hills lies the ""RV Well of Endless Hope"". Its waters can revive even the driest land.”

Hare blinked. “But that’s so far! I’m fast, but I can’t run forever.”

Tortoise smiled. “That’s why we’ll go together. You run ahead, I’ll follow at my own pace. Each of us has a role to play.”

And so they set off. Hare raced across the scorched earth, his legs a blur of determination. Tortoise followed, slow but steady, never stopping, never wavering.

Their journey was not easy. Thorny thickets tore at Hare’s fur. Jagged cliffs tested Tortoise’s footing. The sun blazed relentlessly. Yet they pressed on—Hare driven by hope, Tortoise by faith.

Days turned into weeks. Hare, exhausted and dusty, would pause often, looking back. "Tortoise is still coming," he reminded himself. "I can’t quit now. He believes in me."

At last, they reached the final hill. From its peak, the legendary well sparkled like a jewel in the distance. Hare collapsed, panting. Moments later, Tortoise arrived, covered in dust but smiling.

The ""RV Well of Endless Hope"" shimmered in the sun. Hare dipped a paw into its waters—cool, clear, and radiant. “Is it real?” he whispered.

Tortoise nodded. “Drink. Let hope fill you again.”

Hare drank. Energy surged through him. His legs no longer ached. His heart felt light. “Thank you,” he said softly. “You never gave up on me.”

Tortoise nodded. “And you reminded me that speed alone doesn’t win the journey. Hope, courage, and friendship do.”

Together, they carried water back to the forest. Slowly, the land revived. Leaves unfurled, rivers returned, and laughter echoed once more among the trees.

From that day on, Hare and Tortoise became a legend—not for racing, but for restoring life. They taught others that in times of despair, unity and belief can carry you through.

And whenever someone felt defeated, the animals would say,

“Remember the ""RV Well of Endless Hope.”"

So, dear reader, when the path ahead feels impossible, when the world seems dry and dark—remember Hare and Tortoise. Hope is out there, waiting for you.

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Late Saturday Evening 5-3-25

Rafidain Bank: There Are No Indications Of Any Liquidity Crisis Or Banking Panic

Banks   Economy News – Baghdad   Rafidain Bank confirmed on Saturday that its financial position is strong and solid, with a legal reserve of more than 8 trillion dinars deposited with the Central Bank of Iraq. The bank also indicated that there are no indications of any liquidity crisis or banking panic.

In a statement seen by Al-Eqtisad News, the bank said, "Rafidain Bank is not just a bank, but a sovereign pillar of the state's economy. Since its establishment in 1941, it has remained steadfast in serving citizens and the state, overcoming all economic and political crises without any hesitation in fulfilling its obligations. It is not just a financial institution, but an extension of the state's identity and a center of trust for more than 12 million citizens.

" The bank stressed that "talk about 'deposit differences' is incomplete and misleading," explaining that "bank deposits are not held as raw cash, but are managed within a precise banking operating system that includes: retail loans, government bonds, small project financing, and liquidity investment according to financial safety standards. Circulating information outside this context confuses public awareness and undermines confidence."

He added, "There are no indications of any liquidity crisis or banking panic," stressing that "Rafidain Bank's financial position is strong and solid, with a legal reserve of more than 8 trillion dinars deposited with the Central Bank of Iraq. Liquidity is available, deposits are secure, and there are no emergency withdrawal requests or operational irregularities."

He pointed out that "the bank's reputation is not just a brand name, but a national asset. We realize that banking reputation is not measured solely by assets, but by the depth of the relationship between the bank and its community. Rafidain has maintained its commitment to citizens in the most difficult circumstances, and today it embodies the financial confidence of the Iraqi state."

He continued, "We do not accept comparisons with banking collapses in other countries," explaining that "comparisons between Rafidain Bank and banks that have collapsed in other countries lack objectivity. Rafidain is not exposed to foreign markets, does not carry speculative debts, and operates under the direct supervision of the Central Bank of Iraq, with a clean record of obligations."

The bank warned of "the danger of being dragged into political and media controversy," stressing that "the banking sector cannot tolerate smear campaigns or fragmented rumors, and ill-considered skepticism may create a disturbance in public confidence, which we warn against and reject.

There is a difference between professional criticism and irresponsible media escalation."

It continued, "It has undertaken radical and strategic reforms to return to the international arena, including initiating a comprehensive modernization of its systems:

• Contracting with EY and K2 Integrity to develop governance and compliance.
• Adopting the global banking system Oracle Flexcube.
• Operating modern AML and KYC systems.
• Opening international correspondence channels in preparation for a confident return to the global financial system.

" The statement concluded, "We are not asking for special protection, but we ask that the bank be left outside circles of controversy. It is an institution for all Iraqis, and its silence in the face of crises does not indicate its weakness, but rather its maturity and loyalty to the people. Let us preserve what remains of trust in state institutions."    https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=55086

Gold And Dollar Prices Rise In Iraqi Markets

Buratha News Agency1802025-05-03   On Saturday, May 3, 2025, local and global markets witnessed a significant rise in gold and dollar prices, amid ongoing economic fluctuations and internal pressures that impacted trading activity in the Iraqi market. The price of an ounce of gold reached $3,241 globally, which directly impacted gold prices in the Iraqi markets, as the price of one mithqal rose to unprecedented levels, as follows:

24 karat: 770 thousand dinars

22 caliber: 707 thousand dinars

21 karat: 675 thousand dinars

18 karat: 578 thousand dinars

Regarding the dollar exchange rate against the Iraqi dinar, local markets witnessed a relative increase, with Baghdad exchange offices recording: Purchase price: 143,750 dinars per $100    Selling price: 145,750 dinars per $100
The exchange rate on the Baghdad Stock Exchange reached 144,750 dinars per 100 dollars.
https://burathanews.com/arabic/economic/459630

The Dollar Price Stabilized In Local Markets With The Closing Of The Stock Exchange

Saturday, May 3, 2025, Economic   Baghdad/ NINA / The dollar prices stabilized in the markets of Baghdad and Erbil on Saturday, with the closing of the stock exchange at the beginning of the week.

The dollar prices recorded stability with the closing of the Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya stock exchanges, recording 144,750 dinars for $100, the same prices recorded this morning.

The selling prices in exchange shops in the local markets in Baghdad witnessed stability, as the selling price reached 145,500 dinars for $100, while the purchase price reached 143,500 dinars for $100.

In Erbil, the dollar recorded a slight decrease, as the selling price reached 144,700 dinars for every $100, and the purchase price reached 144,550 dinars for $100. /End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1224452

The Iraqi Economy And The Risks Of Limited Diversification

Dr. Haitham Hamid Mutlaq Al-Mansour  The Iraqi economy is experiencing a gap between the government's efforts to promote growth on the one hand, and the structural challenges that hinder growth and stability on the other.

Although Iraq possesses enormous oil wealth, ranking third in the world in oil reserves, its near-total dependence on crude oil exports, which account for more than 90% of general budget revenues, makes it vulnerable to global market fluctuations and hinders the diversification of its production base. This limits its resilience to external shocks and limits the national economy's response to reform requirements.

Overall activity indicates that the Iraqi economy is witnessing development in oil production infrastructure, such as joint ventures with international companies in the Majnoon and West Qurna fields, for example.

This has led to an increase in total production to approximately 3.5 million barrels per day since the end of 2023, with plans to reach 5 million barrels in the coming years. This is in addition to improved resource management following the approval of the Oil and Gas Law, which has not yet been fully implemented.

Meanwhile, we are witnessing an expansion in investment in reconstruction projects in cities such as Mosul and Basra, supported by foreign investment, particularly from the Gulf, and the development of the Grand Faw Port, a strategic project to stimulate foreign trade.

On the other hand, we see a limited trend toward diversification in a few sectors, limited to limited government plans for developing agriculture and industry, such as supporting local production in the food sector, and the launch of the National Development Strategy 2020-2030, which witnessed weak implementation according to the World Bank's assessment.

 In terms of international economic relations, the use of the Chinese yuan instead of the dollar in oil trade with China is noted, as are agreements with neighboring countries such as Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia to establish joint industrial zones.

But one of the most prominent challenges facing economic growth and economic reform in general is the scourge of financial and administrative corruption. Iraq ranks low on the Transparency International Index (ranked 154th out of 180).

According to World Bank estimates, 30% of the budget is eroded annually due to corruption.

Meanwhile, the employment index suffers from high levels of unemployment and disguised unemployment. The unemployment rate exceeds 15%, reaching 30% among youth.

This is due to increasing levels of public spending, its high contribution to total employment, and the prevalence of disguised unemployment among more than 4 million employees. Inflation is also expected to rise to approximately 7% by the end of 2024.

After oil prices witnessed a decline due to global demand resulting from the slowdown in Chinese growth and the rise in US interest rates, this affected budget revenues and increased the 2024 budget deficit, which was approved at 198 trillion dinars (about $152 billion), with an expected deficit of 48 trillion dinars (24%), increasing reliance on domestic borrowing.

This brought the domestic public debt to 80 trillion dinars (about $55 billion). Due to the inflation rate, which rose to 7.5% in 2024 compared to 6% in 2023, the value of the dinar decreased against the dollar with the increase in demand for imports due to the lack of flexibility of the local production base.

Therefore, the Central Bank took measures to raise the interest rate to 7.5%, in addition to raising the legal reserve ratio from 15-18% and tightening controls on dollar transfers to combat smuggling and money laundering.

Not long ago, the Central Bank's foreign reserves were also witnessing a significant decline, according to the bank's own statistics. The decline reached $7.5 billion as a result of compensatory sterilization measures to mitigate the decline in dollar supply on the parallel market, posing a threat to the government's long-term inflation shield.

Given the real distortions in the Iraqi economy that affect the structure of aggregate demand, spending, and investment, with serious repercussions for the business sector, and in light of the limited government interventions and the expected continued decline in global oil prices, one of the important steps to ensure the success of the economic reform process is to emphasize the reduction of rentierism through the following:

Develop a foreign investment strategy in specific, productive sectors, with a clear plan, objectives, and tools for investment, implementation, oversight, and anti-corruption, including the oil, petrochemical, extractive, and mining sectors.

Strengthening the investment strategy by issuing a package of laws that attract foreign investment and implementing real reforms to raise the expected level of marginal capital efficiency, which will directly impact the movement and direction of private capital and increase its productivity in the sectors mentioned in the first point.

Directing oil revenue savings to investments in infrastructure, education, health, housing, industry, and agriculture, and expanding the scope of derivative investments.

Rationalizing public spending policy and taking measures to ensure financial control and financial sustainability of the depleting economic resource, and coordinating with monetary policy to reform the banking sector and facilitate investment financing through banks to achieve stability and growth.

These signals are likely to achieve economic reform in the financial and real markets, and subsequently increase economic growth through financial compensation from investment returns, reducing the general budget deficit, and enhancing the government's ability to expand non-oil GDP and absorb external shocks. This will then increase the sustainability of domestic public debt and achieve low and stable inflation. Otherwise, the Iraqi economy will reach a crossroads: either embark on diversification and stability, or continue its dependence on oil, with the risks of rents and instability.
https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=55062

The Central Bank Of Iraq Reveals The Size Of The Reserves At Rafidain Bank

Banks  Economy News – Baghdad  The Central Bank of Iraq revealed, on Saturday, the size of the reserves at Rafidain Bank.

According to a Central Bank document, "Rafidain Bank's unused mandatory reserve balance has reached 4 trillion and 277,083,782,782 dinars, while its used reserve has reached 4 trillion and 263 billion dinars. Thus, Rafidain Bank's total reserves at the Central Bank exceed 8 trillion and 540 billion dinars."  She added, "It has not been touched in any way, shape or form."
https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=55057

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Sunday Morning 5-4-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

PRO-CRYPTO DEMOCRATS PULL SUPPORT FOR STABLECOIN BILL IN LAST MINUTE

A group of nine US Senate Democrats say they will oppose the stablecoin bill in its current form, threatening its chances of passing.

A group of US Senate Democrats known for supporting the crypto industry have said they would oppose a Republican-led stablecoin bill if it moves forward in its current form.

The move threatens to stall legislation that could establish the first US regulatory framework for stablecoins, according to a May 3 report from Politico.

Per the report, nine Senate Democrats said in a joint statement that the bill “still has numerous issues that must be addressed.” They warned they would not support a procedural vote to advance the legislation unless changes are made.

Among the signatories were Senators Ruben Gallego, Mark Warner, Lisa Blunt Rochester and Andy Kim — all of whom had previously backed the bill when it passed through the Senate Banking Committee in March.

The bill, introduced by Senator Bill Hagerty, is formally known as the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act.

Senate prepares to vote on stablecoin bill

The Senate is expected to begin floor consideration of the bill in the coming days, with the first vote potentially taking place next week.

The bill has been championed by the crypto industry as a landmark step toward regulatory clarity. However, the Democrats’ about-face reflects growing unease within the party.

Although revisions were made to the bill after its committee approval to address Democratic concerns, the lawmakers said the changes fell short. They called for stronger safeguards related to:

• Anti-Money Laundering

• National Security

• Foreign Issuers

• Accountability measures for noncompliant actors

The statement was also signed by Senators Raphael Warnock, Catherine Cortez Masto, Ben Ray Luján, John Hickenlooper and Adam Schiff.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Senator Angela Alsobrooks were absent from the list, who co-sponsored the bill alongside Hagerty.

Despite their objections, the Democratic senators emphasized their commitment to shaping responsible crypto regulation. They reportedly said they “are eager to continue working with our colleagues to address these issues.”

Crypto needs a stablecoin bill

On April 27, Caitlin Long, founder and CEO of Custodia Bank, criticized the US Federal Reserve for quietly maintaining a key anti-crypto policy that favors big-bank-issued stablecoins, despite relaxing crypto partnership rules for banks.

Long explained that while the Fed recently rescinded four prior crypto guidelines, a Jan. 27, 2023, statement was left intact in coordination with the Biden administration.

The guidance, according to Long, blocks banks from engaging directly with crypto assets and prohibits them from issuing stablecoins on permissionless blockchains.

However, Long noted that once a federal stablecoin bill becomes law, it could override the Fed’s stance. “Congress should hurry up,” she urged.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  CoinTelegraph

~~~~~~~~~

BRICS ACCELERATES CURRENCY SHIFT WITH NEW TRADE TOOLS AND PAYMENT SYSTEMS

BRICS nations are turbocharging their break from Western-dominated finance, advancing local currency trade, cross-border payment systems, and groundbreaking investment platforms to empower the Global South.

BRICS Ministers Push Local Currencies, Cross-Border Payment Plan, and New Investment Platforms

Foreign ministers from the BRICS countries highlighted their commitment to shifting away from reliance on dominant global currencies during a meeting in Rio de Janeiro earlier this week. The official Chair’s Statement from the Meeting of BRICS Foreign Ministers emphasized expanding the use of local currencies in trade and financial transactions within the bloc and with partner countries.

The meeting, hosted under Brazil’s 2025 BRICS Chairship, underscored the group’s intention to enhance economic sovereignty and regional cooperation through new monetary tools. The statement details:

The ministers underscored the importance of the enhanced use of local currencies in trade and financial settlements between BRICS countries and their trade partners.

They referenced paragraph 66 of the Kazan Declaration, which directs finance ministers and central bank governors to continue examining the use of:

• Local currencies

• Payment instruments and platforms

This includes assessing the feasibility of a BRICS cross-border payments initiative, known as BRICS Clear, and enhancing the bloc’s reinsurance capacity, with a mandate to report findings to BRICS leaders. These initiatives are viewed as essential to:

• Deepening financial integration among BRICS members

• Reducing vulnerabilities associated with external economic shocks

The group also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering investment within its own ranks and across the Global South. The statement notes:

They emphasized the importance of continuously expanding local currency financing and strengthening innovation in investment and financing tools and acknowledging the initiative to create new investment platform to boost investment flows into BRICS countries and the Global South mechanisms.

This strategy aligns with broader goals of:

• Financial inclusivity

• Economic resilience

• A transition toward a multipolar economic system that better reflects the interests of emerging markets and developing countries

The focus on local currencies and financial platforms complements ongoing discussions around BRICS-led alternatives to existing global payment systems. Ministers are expected to deliver concrete proposals for BRICS leaders to review, building on the momentum created by prior declarations and new institutional frameworks designed to accelerate intra-bloc economic collaboration.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Bitcoin News

~~~~~~~~~

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The Economy is Officially Shrinking

The Economy is Officially Shrinking

Heresy Financial:  5-3-2025

The news is in: the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has turned negative, signaling an official economic contraction.

This isn’t just a headline; it’s a seismic shift impacting every facet of our financial lives. Heresy Financial unpacks the situation, revealing what’s truly happening and what smart investors should do next.

While the negative GDP figure grabs headlines, understanding its nuances is crucial. Many interpret this solely as a recessionary indicator, but the reality is more complex.

The headline figure masks underlying factors, often overlooked in simplistic pronouncements of economic doom. A deeper dive is necessary to understand the contributing factors and their potential long-term effects.

Many analyses focus solely on the immediate impact of the negative GDP, neglecting the broader context. Common misconceptions include oversimplifying the relationship between GDP and individual financial wellbeing, failing to account for diverse economic sectors, and ignoring the influence of global events on the domestic economy.

Heresy Financial stresses the importance of looking beyond the single data point and considering a holistic view of the economic landscape.

Global trade dynamics, particularly the impact of tariffs and trade wars, play a significant role in the current economic downturn. These policies disrupt supply chains, increase costs for businesses and consumers, and contribute to overall economic uncertainty.

Understanding the ripple effects of these international trade policies is critical to forecasting future economic trends.

Inflation’s corrosive effect on purchasing power is often underestimated. While rising prices are acknowledged, the full extent of their influence on consumer spending, business investment, and overall economic growth is frequently overlooked. Heresy Financial emphasizes the necessity of factoring in the real impact of inflation, adjusted for purchasing power, rather than relying solely on nominal GDP figures.

The role of government spending in the current economic climate is highly debated. While some argue that increased government spending can stimulate economic activity, others contend it can exacerbate existing problems, leading to inflation and unsustainable debt levels. Heresy Financial delves into this complex issue, examining the potential benefits and drawbacks of government intervention, considering the specific context and potential unintended consequences.

The current economic contraction demands careful consideration and a strategic approach. By understanding the complexities beyond the headline figures and taking proactive steps, investors can navigate the turbulent waters and potentially emerge stronger in the long run.

 The insights offered by Heresy Financial provide a crucial framework for making informed decisions in these challenging times.

https://youtu.be/5dbjMUKMY6g

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Saturday Afternoon 5-3-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

BRICS 2025 SUMMIT COULD BE GAME-CHANGER FOR THE US DOLLAR

Just months into 2025, geopolitical tensions are shaking global markets — especially between the US and the BRICS economic alliance. As a result, the upcoming BRICS 2025 Summit may prove to be a turning point for the US dollar.

For years, BRICS nations have pursued de-dollarization, aiming to reduce reliance on the greenback. With the US leaning into America-first trade policies and further weaponizing the dollar, the bloc’s resolve may now be firmer than ever.

Why the BRICS 2025 Summit Matters

The annual BRICS summit has become the alliance’s most critical platform for economic coordination. Past gatherings have focused on:

• Expanding membership

• Developing alternative currency mechanisms

This year’s summit — dubbed the “Rio Reset” — is expected to be the most pivotal yet, particularly as Brazil holds the BRICS chairmanship and pushes for redefining global currency norms.

According to Birch Gold Group, the summit is “rumored to be a significant monetary development that will disrupt the dollar-based global financial system.”

“I’m convinced BRICS will make history this summer,” says analyst Peter Reagan.

Pressure on the US Dollar Builds

Since President Donald Trump’s return to office, his administration has introduced tariffs and protectionist policies, prompting the US dollar to fall 10% in just his first 100 days.

Without new trade deals, continued depreciation of the dollar seems likely. This only strengthens BRICS’s incentives to push forward with currency diversification and new international monetary tools.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Watcher Guru

~~~~~~~~~

ANALYSIS: RIPPLE MAKES BID FOR STABLECOIN ISSUER CIRCLE – REPORT

Earlier this week, Bloomberg reported that Ripple made a $4–$5 billion bid for Circle, the issuer of the USDC stablecoin. Circle rejected the offer, viewing it as too low. This comes as Circle filed for an NYSE listing earlier this month.

Despite generating $1.67 billion in 2024 revenue, Circle earned just $156 million in profit, due to 60% of revenue being paid out to distributors, especially Coinbase.

Why Ripple Wants Circle

Ripple’s interest makes strategic sense. It recently launched its own stablecoin, RLUSD, which just passed $300 million in market cap. By contrast, Circle’s USDC stands at $61 billion. Both aim at institutional markets, creating a major overlap in target audience.

Moreover, Ripple is cash-rich. It holds:

• 4.5 billion XRP outright (worth ~$10 billion),

• 38 billion XRP in escrow,

• Plus, it committed $1.25 billion to acquire prime broker Hidden Road.

XRP’s Speculative Valuation

Ripple's XRP holdings enable large acquisitions, but its price is highly speculative:

• XRP’s market cap is ~58% of Ethereum’s.

• Yet, Ethereum has ~20x more daily active users (~465k vs. XRP’s ~23k).

• Developer activity and ecosystem growth also heavily favor Ethereum.

So while it’s a good time to spend XRP, any acquisition requiring the recipient to hold XRP carries pricing risk.

Circle’s Institutional Edge

Circle is deeply entrenched in institutional finance:

• Partners with BlackRock to manage reserves,

• Custody by BNY Mellon,

• Recently linked to stablecoin collateral for listed derivatives,

• Favored in CFTC tokenized collateral pilots.

Ripple, although a late entrant, wants in. It already:

• Acquired Metaco ($250M) for custody solutions,

• Worked with emerging market CBDC pilots,

• Serves institutional cross-border payments.

Why Circle Rejected the Offer

Circle is pursuing an IPO expected to value it around $4–$5 billion, the same range as Ripple’s offer.

But:

• Founders retain Class B shares with 5x voting power,

• CEO Jeremy Allaire has IPO experience (sold Allaire Corp to Macromedia),

• This IPO is a launchpad—not an exit.

Given Circle’s years of pivots (e.g., Poloniex acquisition, Circle Pay wallet) and the long road to USDC’s success, a $5B sale isn’t attractive, especially if paid partly in volatile XRP.

Bottom Line

Ripple’s bid is strategically sound, but to succeed, it may need to significantly raise the offer — and reduce XRP exposure for any future acquisition deal.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Ledger Insights

~~~~~~~~~

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Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

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“Tidbits From TNT” Saturday 5-3-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Iraq seeks to strengthen long-term economic partnership with Brazil

On Thursday, Minister of Commerce Athir Al-Ghurairi discussed ways to strengthen the economic and trade partnership with Brazil, signing a contract with his Brazilian counterpart, Geraldo Alckmin, during his visit to the country.

Al-Ghariri said in a statement received by Al-Akhbari: "The government is keen to expand cooperation with Brazil and strengthen economic partnerships with them."

He added that "the possibility of supplying the Brazilian side with shipments of Iraqi oil was discussed, within the framework of bilateral cooperation and meeting the Brazilian market's energy needs," stressing "the importance of building a long-term strategic partnership based on shared interests and mutual opportunities."

The Minister of Trade affirmed "Iraq's readiness to provide all possible facilities to Brazilian investors," calling for "the organization of a comprehensive exhibition of Brazilian industries in Baghdad to serve as a platform for promoting Brazilian products and expanding the base of trade and investment cooperation."

He pointed out that "there are significant opportunities, supported by sovereign guarantees provided by the Iraqi government to Brazilian companies, to encourage real partnerships with the Iraqi private sector."  link

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

Tishwash:  A representative reveals the reason for the government's withdrawal of tax funds: The US Federal Reserve has stopped transferring funds to Iraq.

Iraqi parliament member Dr. Raed Hamdan al-Maliki described the United States' control over the transfer of Iraqi oil export revenues as "the greatest violation of the country's sovereignty," calling on the Iraqi government to tell the truth to the people.

In a tweet on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, followed by Iraq Observer, Maliki said that the government's withdrawal of tax funds and their use to cover operating expenses was due to the US Federal Reserve's suspension of oil revenue transfers.

He added, "It appears that the government's reason for withdrawing tax trust funds and using them to cover operating expenses is due to the US Federal Reserve's suspension of the transfer," referring to US measures restricting the movement of Iraqi funds held in international bank accounts.

Al-Maliki called for an end to this situation, saying, “This matter must end, and the government must tell the people the truth.”

The Council of Ministers had previously, in an official decision, authorized the Minister of Finance to withdraw tax deposits less than five years old to finance and pay salaries for April and subsequent months.  

The Ministry of Finance is scheduled to deposit the amount later, as needed, for the state's total. Cash settlements will be made monthly upon request by reversing the deposit amount from the actual monthly revenues collected when conducting tax accounting, according to the decision. link

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

Tishwash:  Your deposits are safe: Iraq clarifies bank withdrawals

Iraq’s Finance Ministry dismissed allegations that recent withdrawals from state-owned banks involved citizen deposits, stressing that the transactions used sovereign funds and were carried out in line with federal budgetary procedures.

The ministry clarified in a statement that the funds withdrawn from Al-Rafidain and Al-Rasheed banks were held temporarily for “operational purposes” and reallocated according to administrative and financial instructions tied to the national budget.

The statement followed accusations by several lawmakers, local media outlets, and social media figures alleging that the government had accessed trillions of dinars from public deposits to address fiscal pressures. Some critics drew parallels to foreign banking collapses, prompting concerns over Iraq’s financial stability.

“These funds are not linked to individual accounts or depositors’ savings,” the ministry stated, rejecting the comparisons as “inaccurate and misleading.” It emphasized that Iraq’s banking sector operates under a distinct legal framework and is regulated by the Central Bank, which enforces strict compliance and governance measures.

Officials reported that Al-Rafidain and Al-Rasheed remain financially stable, continuing to disburse salaries, finance public projects, and fulfill obligations to clients. Al-Rafidain Bank holds approximately 9 trillion Iraqi dinars ($6.9B) in legal reserves with the Central Bank.

A document dated April 24 confirmed Al-Rafidain held 4.277 trillion dinars ($3.3B) in unused reserves and 4.263 trillion ($3.25B) in used reserves—totaling over 8.54 trillion dinars ($6.52B)—all of which remain intact, according to the ministry.

Addressing earlier embezzlement incidents, the ministry attributed those cases to prolonged dormancy in escrow accounts, which had been exploited by corrupt networks, noting that new oversight procedures had been introduced in coordination with state banks to strengthen controls and mitigate risks.

The ministry warned that continued dissemination of false claims could damage public confidence and distort perceptions of recent economic progress, highlighting that Iraq’s fiscal reforms and improved transparency had received praise from international institutions, contributing to better credit ratings and increased investor engagement.

Reaffirming its economic policy direction, the ministry called on media professionals and social media users to verify claims and act responsibly. “All official data remains accessible for professional and public review through the ministry and banking channels.”  link

Mot:  The History of Cinco de Mayo......... ((( What YOu Didnt Learn in History Class ))) .

Did you know that back in 1912, Hellmann's Mayonnaise was manufactured in England. In fact, the Titanic was carrying 12,000 bottles of the condiment scheduled for delivery in Vera Cruz, Mexico, which was the next port of call for the great ship after its stop in New York. This would have been the largest shipment of mayonnaise ever delivered to Mexico.

The ship hit an iceberg and sank.

The people of Mexico, who were crazy about mayonnaise, and were eagerly awaiting its delivery, were disconsolate at the loss. Their anguish was so great they declared a National Day of Mourning.

The National Day of mourning occurs each year on May 5th and is known, of course, as - SINKO DE MAYO.

WHAT??? You expected something educational from me?

You need a shot of Tequila!