Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Late Friday Evening 5-23-25

The Yellow Metal Is On Track For Its Best Weekly Performance In More Than A Month

Money and Business  Economy News – Baghdad  Gold is poised for its best weekly performance in over a month on Friday, as a weaker dollar and growing concerns about the fiscal position of the world's largest economy boosted safe-haven demand.

Spot gold rose 0.2 percent to $3,299.79 per ounce by 0014 GMT. The precious metal has risen about 3 percent so far this week and is on track for its best weekly performance since early April.

US gold futures also rose 0.2 percent to $3,299.60.

The dollar has fallen more than 1 percent so far this week and is on track for its worst weekly performance since April 7, making gold priced in the greenback cheaper for holders of other currencies.

The Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives approved a comprehensive tax and spending bill on Thursday, ensuring implementation of most of President Donald Trump's agenda and adding trillions of dollars to the government debt.

The bill now moves to the Senate, which is controlled by Republicans by a margin of 53 to 47 seats.

Gold is often viewed as a safe haven during times of political and financial uncertainty.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that the United States would bear legal responsibility for any Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear facilities, following a CNN report that Israel was preparing to launch strikes on Iran.

As for other precious metals, spot silver was steady at $33.07 per ounce, platinum rose 0.1 percent to $1,082.47, and palladium fell 0.3 percent to $1,012.00. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=55744

The Relationship Between The State And The Economy And The Problem Of Transitioning From The Traditional To The Organized

Dr. Haitham Hamid Mutlaq Al-Mansour   At the heart of every country is a vibrant economy that regulates the rhythm of its life, and Iraq is no exception.

The modern state is no longer merely a political entity that maintains security and public order; it has transformed into a major player in shaping the economy and achieving its balance and stability.

Unfortunately, this relationship takes on more complex dimensions, with the economy sometimes becoming an arena for political conflict and at other times a tool for domination and control. Since the founding of the Iraqi state, the economy has remained hostage to political fluctuations, beginning with the industrialization phase in the mid-twentieth century, through the economic blockade of the 1990s, and finally reaching the post-2003 period, which witnessed a radical transformation in the structure of both the economy and politics.

The state, which is supposed to be the guardian of economic balance and resource allocation, has become a cause for weakening the market and deepening imbalances.

The dominance of government fiscal policy in the economic arena and the marginalization of productive sectors in favor of a rentier economy, in which oil revenues contribute 95% of the gross domestic product, is a cause for concern regarding macroeconomic policy and the relationship between the state and the economy, and what it should be.

Therefore, Iraq's contemporary history cannot be read in isolation from the intertwining of the economy and power structures. These two sides of the same coin were shaped by both strength and weakness.

The state, which is supposed to be a framework for regulating economic life, has, in the Iraqi case, become a competitor to it and a restrictor of its activity. It controls its components and directs its course beyond the limits of revenue and cost, and in most cases, beyond the conditions of the economy.

Perhaps this "satisfactory" relationship is not a final destiny, but rather a milestone in a long journey in search of an economic identity freed from the sway of politics without being detached from it.

In other countries, not far from us, the state has succeeded in serving as a tool for achieving social and economic justice through fair tax policies, smart investments in infrastructure, and empowering the private sector without relinquishing its oversight role.

However, in Iraq, we are witnessing the absence of a clear economic vision that transforms the state from an incubator of development into a factor hindering it. Bureaucracy is bloated and favoritism is rampant, while basic services decline and job opportunities shrink.

Under the prevailing rentier pattern of government sector employment, this economic model has produced a consumer culture worthy of study. Citizens have been transformed from producers into recipients of oil rents through public employment or government support.

This has led to a profound distortion in the relationship between the individual and the state. The state no longer represents a regulatory authority, but rather has become a "provider" expected to distribute provisions. Thus, society has been robbed of its productive capacity, while the economy has been robbed of its competitive vitality.

There is no escape from a vision framed around transforming the state's role from that of a "merchant" distributing oil revenues to that of an "engineer" building a diversified economy.

 If we work to develop progressive socioeconomic programs aimed at changing the individual's stereotype from a recipient of financial aid to an actor in production and export processes, this vicious cycle can be broken. Global experience proves that countries that succeed in combining a fair market with social security are the most stable and prosperous.

With its structural imbalances still present, the Iraqi economy is now at a crossroads: Either the state continues its traditional role as a controller and unfair distributor of wealth, which threatens to perpetuate crises, or it transforms into an economic regulator and protector of the interests of the majority by regulating and creating the basic conditions for market growth, production, and diversification, which is the only path to achieving stability and prosperity.

The question remains: Is the political will capable of waging this fateful battle? I expect that history alone will answer.   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=55748

Oil Is Heading For Its First Weekly Loss Since Last April

economy | 09:34 - 05/23/2025  Mawazine News - Follow-up:
Oil prices fell today for the fourth consecutive session and are heading towards their first weekly decline in three weeks, affected by supply pressures and a possible increase in OPEC+ production next July.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures for July were trading at $60.83 per barrel, a decrease of 0.60% from the previous settlement price.

Brent crude futures for the same month were trading at $64.09 per barrel, a decrease of 0.54% from the previous closing price.

Over the course of the week, Brent crude fell by 1.9%, and US crude fell by 2.5%, following two weeks of gains.  https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=261825-=0

Government Advisor: Small Loans Are An Opportunity To Eliminate Unemployment And Achieve Development

Economy | 12:06 - 05/23/2025  Mawazine News - Baghdad -  Advisor to the Prime Minister, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, explained on Friday that providing small loans is a pillar of the financial inclusion policy and one of its goals in eliminating unemployment and achieving development and income equality as much as possible,

as it will provide employment opportunities of no less than 60%, while pointing out that loans expand the activity of small enterprises and increase their contribution to the country's gross domestic product.

Advisor to the Prime Minister, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, said that "within the framework of administrative reform and combating bureaucracy, which are principles of the government's approach, the factor of simplifying procedures is the first priority in maximizing the management of resources and economic activity to achieve promising sustainable development in accordance with the development goals in our country."

He added that "Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani's directive to simplify the granting of small loans undoubtedly carries important benefits at the individual and economic levels, as many small loan programs target marginalized or emerging groups, such as women and housewives, which contributes to their integration into the economy."

Saleh explained that "these loans are very active financial levers for employment and mobilizing labor market actors, as they facilitate the youth and those with crafts and skills to start their own projects, and open the door to entrepreneurship," noting that they "help generate a stable source of income for the individual and his family, and reduce poverty and unemployment rates by economically empowering individuals, hence these small loans."

He explained that "loans play an important role in employment policy and affect the balance of the labor market, by absorbing and providing employment opportunities of no less than 60% of available job opportunities, not to mention their role in raising growth rates in the gross domestic product," noting that "they play a role in expanding the activity of small projects, which increases their contribution to the country's GDP."   https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=261830

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Saturday Morning 5-24-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

ELON MUSK’S DOGE PLAN TO SAVE THE U.S. ECONOMY FROM RECESSION AMID BITCOIN TURMOIL

Billionaire founder and U.S government efficiency advisor Elon Musk has proposed a strategic plan to avoid America’s economic fall into recession. With fears of a U.S. recession rising by 43% and government debt ballooning, Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is choosing to bet on expansion, not reductions.

This approach may sound risky, but here’s the twist — it’s already showing some results.

Let’s find out.

Elon Musk’s Fix: Grow the Economy, Don’t Shrink It

For decades, the go-to solution during economic trouble has been to cut government spending. But now, with the U.S. debt mounting and the U.S. 10-year Treasury yield jumping to 4.5% and recession odds climbing to 43%, Musk argues that this strategy is no longer enough.

Musk says improving productivity and expanding GDP are the only real ways to avoid national bankruptcy. He admits that government waste is a serious problem, but believes that strong reforms can still make a difference.

And he’s not alone. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, once a firm supporter of spending cuts, now says the U.S. must “grow its way out” of the debt crisis.

According to him, if the economy grows faster than the debt, it becomes possible to manage both. This change in thinking marks a huge turning point for U.S. economic policy.

DOGE’s Progress So Far

While Musk in the 2024 U.S. election campaign promised DOGE would save $2 trillion from government spending — which is one-third of the entire federal budget — as of May, it has already saved $170 billion, which is:

• 17% of its $1 trillion goal, and

• 8.5% of the “dream target.”

Bitcoin Drops After Trade War Warning

After Donald Trump warned about new trade tariffs on Europe, Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies quickly dropped. Eventually, Bitcoin has become very sensitive to what’s happening in politics. As these tensions rise, crypto prices are moving fast.

Just recently, Bitcoin hit a record high above $112,000. But after the news, it dropped 2.7% and is now trading around $107,937.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Coinpedia

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BRICS: US DOLLAR IS REPLACEABLE? SINGAPORE’S CENTRAL BANK HEAD REVEALS

The BRICS alliance is looking to replace the US dollar on the global stage with local currencies. The bloc wants their respective national currencies to thrive and make the greenback sit in the rear seat of the economy. The de-dollarization agenda is gaining steam worldwide as emerging economies are prioritizing local currencies to push their GDP.

The greenback is at risk of losing its global dominance as many countries are considering ending reliance on the currency. However, Singapore’s Central Bank head Chia Der Juin touched on the BRICS subject of de-dollarization and explained whether the US dollar can be replaced in the financial sector.

BRICS: Singapore Central Bank Head Reveals If the US Dollar Can Be Replaced

The Singapore Central Bank’s head revealed that the US dollar is irreplaceable and no BRICS currency can take its place. He said that the US dollar-based assets have “enduring advantages” and remain virtually irreplaceable in the global markets.

“The $28-trillion Treasury market is fundamental and systemic to the global financial system and there is no alternative for this point,” he said.

BRICS might find it hard to replace the US dollar as its foundation is strong, according to Singapore’s Central Bank head. He even touched on the topic of institutional Asian funds buying US-based assets for better profits.

“There is generally an overweight exposure to US assets from Asian investors. In fact, most of it is unhedged. So some changes in that sentiment and the read of the direction of the market can cause an outsized reaction,” Chia said.

In conclusion, Singapore’s Central Bank head is relatively optimistic about the US dollar-based assets than the BRICS currencies. No national currency is fit enough to withstand the whiplash of the financial markets. Only the greenback is a seasonal contender and can push its weight across even during troubled waters.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Watcher Guru

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“Tidbits From TNT” Saturday Morning 5-24-2025

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Tishwash:  this was in Iraq's news

Indonesia launches economic stimulus package to boost consumption

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry of Economic Affairs announced that the country intends to announce an economic stimulus package on June 5 to stimulate economic activity and boost consumer purchasing power.

This package comes with the hope of raising the economic growth rate to about 5% during this quarter.

Encouraging growth through increased consumption

Indonesia's Chief Economic Minister, Airlangga Hartarto, stated in a statement that these programs are designed to encourage growth through increased consumption, adding that launching this package before the school holidays, which begin in late June, will provide impetus to boost purchasing power.

The weakest growth rate in more than three years

Southeast Asia's largest economy grew by 4.87% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year, its weakest growth rate in more than three years. The central bank lowered its growth forecast for 2025 to between 4.6% and 5.4% from a range of 4.7% and 5.5%.

Package size evaluation

A ministry spokesperson said the ministry is still assessing the size of the stimulus package, which aims to boost growth in the second and third quarters. 

The incentives include a 50% discount on electricity bills for approximately 79.3 million households and the distribution of food aid to 18.3 million low-income households during June and July. The government also plans to provide cash transfers to low-income workers and a discount on industrial accident insurance for workers in labor-intensive industries.

To encourage tourism, the government announced discounts on airfare, train, and ferry tickets during the school holidays, which run until mid-July, and discounts on highway tolls for 110 million users during June and July, according to the ministry.  link   

Tishwash”  Masrour Barzani invites the US Secretary of State to visit Erbil.

 Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Masrour Barzani announced on Friday evening that he had extended an official invitation to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to visit Erbil.

This came in press statements following his meeting with Rubio in the US capital, where he affirmed that his meeting with the US Secretary of State was "successful," noting that he "extended an official invitation to him to visit the region."

"We discussed with Rubio the latest developments in the region," Barzani said.

 This meeting comes as part of Masrour Barzani's official visit to Washington, which includes a series of meetings with US administration and congressional officials to strengthen bilateral relations and discuss regional issues of common interest.  link

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Tishwash:  Iraq and the Season of Absolute Powers: No Oversight or Budget... A "Political Emergency" Paralyzes the State

 Hopes for the passage of the 2025 budget in Iraq are gradually fading, amid a political landscape marked by legislative stagnation, a nearly paralyzed parliament, and a government seemingly more preoccupied with managing political balances than fulfilling constitutional and financial obligations.

In this context, Member of Parliament Jawad Al-Yasari affirmed on Friday (May 23, 2025) that next year's budget schedules "have become a thing of the past," indicating the impossibility of passing it at the present time.

Absent parliament... no prospect of holding sessions

In a statement to Baghdad Today, the leftist said, "The Iraqi government has no real seriousness in sending the 2025 budget schedules, and even if it did send them—which is unlikely—it would be impossible to pass them in light of a paralyzed parliament, with no sessions, no quorum, and no deputies."

He pointed out that holding parliamentary sessions "has become extremely difficult, due to the preoccupation of blocs, parties, and even MPs themselves with election campaigns and ongoing preparations for the general elections. This means that the new budget schedules will not be discussed or approved, and the Ministry of Finance will continue to work with the remaining 2023 and 2024 budget schedules."

A government in a political impasse

These statements highlight a deeper dilemma facing the Iraqi government, which had pledged at the beginning of this year to submit the budget schedules before the end of the first quarter, according to statements made by Cabinet spokesman Bassem Al-Awadi. However, the passage of months without submitting the schedules reflects either a delay in the government's ability to formulate them within the timeframe, or political considerations preventing their passage amid a tense and unstable parliament.

Finance between reality and maneuver

According to sources from the Ministry of Finance, government spending will not cease in the absence of 2025 budgets, as the provisions of Article (13) of Financial Management Law No. 6 of 2019 allow reliance on previous years' budgets to cover basic current expenditures, most notably salaries, social support, and temporary employment. However, the absence of a budget effectively freezes investment spending, halts new projects, and disrupts the work of ministries and governorates.

The political impasse... when the state is frozen by an unannounced decision

The absence of financial tables is not merely a procedural flaw; it reflects a complex, deeply rooted political crisis. The paralysis of parliament due to electoral polarization and the lack of coordination between the government and the House of Representatives reveal that Iraq's constitutional institutions operate not according to the state's rhythm, but rather according to the rhythm of alliances. This makes major decisions, such as the budget, a direct victim of any political confusion.

In this context, observers believe that the elections have transformed into something resembling a "political state of emergency," in which the state is temporarily frozen, legislation and oversight are halted, projects are suspended, and decisions are postponed. In the absence of an effective parliament, the executive branch is left without institutional balance, opening the door wide open to the expansion of powers in the hands of the executive branch.

Indeed, some warn that repeating this model reinforces the logic of a temporary state—a state run by momentary orders, instructions, and assessments, rather than annual budgets and plans.

The economy is in a state of anticipation... neither recession nor growth

Economically, the absence of a 2025 budget schedule pushes Iraq into a gray zone: not a state of collapse, but also not one of stable growth. Salaries are being paid, and current expenditures are proceeding, but there is no clear economic horizon, no approved spending priorities, and no transparent investment map. This leaves the private sector in a state of "waiting freeze," unable to make expansionary decisions amid the ambiguity of public policies.

Stalled projects are likely to accumulate, domestic and foreign debts lack legislative cover for settlement, and promised development plans are stuck in the drawers of ministerial committees. In the governorates, project implementation is contingent on central allocations that never materialize, and some are managed through primitive "transfers" that reproduce local financial chaos.

Economists agree that the continuation of this pattern deprives the budget of its most important political and economic functions: setting priorities, controlling the deficit, stimulating growth, and distributing wealth fairly.

Management crisis or system crisis?

The absence of budget schedules for next year cannot be reduced to the scene of an absent parliament. Rather, it reflects a structural flaw in the relationship between the authorities, where planning and development priorities are being undermined by political rivalries and electoral gains. While the government continues to spend according to outdated schedules, infrastructure projects, administrative reform, and social service programs remain suspended on the ropes of lost time. link

Mot:  . I Knew It - It Can't Be Me!!! 

Mot:  . Don't Need a Burglar Alarm!!!

This Is Legalized Counterfeiting’: Why Inflation Is Theft by Design | Tom DiLorenzo

This Is Legalized Counterfeiting’: Why Inflation Is Theft by Design | Tom DiLorenzo

Kitco News:  5-23-2025

Tom DiLorenzo, President of the Mises Institute and one of the fiercest critics of central banking in America, joins Jeremy Szafron to break down the crisis unfolding in real time.

From inflation and endless war to collapsing trust in the dollar, DiLorenzo explains how the Federal Reserve enables unconstitutional government expansion - and why he calls it "legalized counterfeiting" and "Marxist by design."

Key Topics:

 -The Trump-backed tax-and-spending bill and the $4 trillion deficit spike

-Why the 30-year Treasury yield breaking 5.1% signals a trust crisis

-How central banking fuels war, surveillance, and authoritarianism

-The Fed's origins, failures, and the path to abolishing it

-Gold at $3,300 and Bitcoin at $111,000 — is this the end of fiat?

-Why DiLorenzo says "The Constitution is dead — the Fed killed it"

 -What Gen Z is learning from Austrian economics and sound money

Follow

00:00 Introduction

01:59 The Federal Reserve's Role in Economic Instability

 03:30 Historical Context and Critique of Central Banking

 05:57 The Impact of Military Spending and Government Debt

16:56 Sound Money and Competing Currencies

25:44 The Origin of 'Dixie' Currency

26:14 The Demise of Competing Currencies

26:49 Bitcoin vs. Gold: The Future of Sound Money

28:19 The History of Central Banks in America

 29:57 The Role of Central Banking in Government Power

39:34 The Potential Collapse of the Dollar

 41:03 The Path to Ending the Federal Reserve

45:49 The Rise of Austrian Economics Among Youth

48:21 Conclusion

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=df2cO7fj1t4

MilitiaMan and Crew: Iraq Dinar Update-Delete Zeros Project- CBI--Stakeholders-Banking Digitization-Banking System-Global

MilitiaMan and Crew:  Iraq Dinar Update-Delete Zeros Project- CBI--Stakeholders-Banking Digitization-Banking System-Global

5-23-2025

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=yCcs9gNvvmg

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Friday Afternoon 5-23-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

Crypto perp futures coming ‘very soon,’ says CFTC’s Mersinger

CFTC Commissioner Hints at Major Breakthrough for U.S. Crypto Derivatives Market

Summer Mersinger, outgoing Commissioner of the Commodities and Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), has confirmed that crypto perpetual futures contracts may soon be live and regulated in the United States.

“We’re seeing some applications, and I believe we’ll see some of those products trading live very soon,” Mersinger said in a May 22 interview with Bloomberg TV.

What Are Perpetual Futures?

• Crypto perpetual futures are derivatives that allow traders to speculate on asset prices without owning the actual cryptocurrencies.

• Unlike traditional futures, perpetuals have no expiration date and are typically traded with high leverage.

• Currently, they are banned in the U.S. and are mostly traded on offshore platforms like:

• Binance (~$95B/day in trading volume)

• OKX

• Bybit

Bringing Trading Back Onshore

Mersinger emphasized that enabling these products in the U.S. would:

• Benefit the crypto industry broadly

• Promote market transparency

• Make the U.S. a hub for regulated crypto derivatives

“It would be great to get that trading back onshore in the United States,” she added.

Mersinger’s Next Move: Blockchain Association

• Mersinger will step down from the CFTC at the end of May.

• She will become CEO of the Blockchain Association on June 2, replacing Kristin Smith.

• The association has over 100 member organizations representing the broader crypto economy.

“We have a strong incoming chairman at the CFTC who will be a real advocate for the industry,” she noted.

GENIUS Act Vote Signals Momentum

• Mersinger also referenced the procedural advancement of the GENIUS stablecoin bill, calling it a sign that:

“This asset class is clearly here to stay.”

• She believes this momentum will help establish the U.S. as a global economic leader in digital assets.

🧠 Takeaway: With perpetual futures likely heading stateside and Mersinger stepping into a prominent advocacy role, the U.S. crypto derivatives landscape may be poised for a major regulatory evolution.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Cointelegraph

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BRICS: DEMAND FOR US DOLLAR GROWS IN OIL PAYMENTS, LOCAL CURRENCY DIPS

BRICS De-Dollarization Strategy Backfires in Nigeria

The BRICS alliance's push to replace the US dollar with local currencies in oil transactions has hit a major setback.

In October, Nigeria adopted the BRICS-inspired policy, announcing that oil refiners must accept the Nigerian naira instead of USD to boost the national currency.

• Oil companies complied initially.

• But the naira quickly depreciated, inflicting heavy losses on refiners.

• Dissatisfaction spread as unions and industry lobbies pressured the government to reverse course.

Nigeria is now paying a steep price for ditching the US dollar in favor of the naira for oil payments.

Refiners Push to Return to the Dollar

Despite BRICS’ call to de-dollarize oil settlements, market forces tell a different story:

• The US dollar is regaining demand in Nigeria’s oil sector.

• Refiners are actively seeking to return to USD payments to preserve profit margins.

“The naira’s depreciation was driven by demand-side concerns, with individuals and businesses rushing to buy dollars,” reported NairaMetrics.

Implications for BRICS and Global Oil Markets

• The US dollar remains entrenched in the oil and gas industry.

• Attempts to eliminate it without proper coordination can destabilize local economies.

• The BRICS agenda of local currency usage could face similar backlash in other member or allied nations.

“The greenback is a strong force in the energy sector and upending it will only end up hurting your arm.”

🧠 Takeaway: Nigeria’s failed attempt at local currency oil payments highlights the dominance of the USD in global energy markets. The BRICS de-dollarization dream may be hitting the harsh reality of economic fundamentals and market resistance.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Watcher Guru

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“Tidbits From TNT” Friday 5-23-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  The Governor of the Central Bank receives a delegation from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)

His Excellency the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Mr. Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, received a delegation from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in Baghdad.

The meeting discussed the measures required to commence their work in Iraq next September, following the completion of Iraq's accession procedures to the European Union bank.

During the meeting, His Excellency the Governor reviewed the progress of the ongoing financial and banking reform plans and the role of the Central Bank in achieving monetary stability, maintaining the stability of the general price level, and controlling inflation.

He also reviewed the procedures for transitioning to digital banking and employing modern financial technologies to provide financial and banking services.

The meeting discussed the role of the Central Bank of Iraq in supporting economic growth through its financing initiatives for economic sectors.
For its part, the European Bank delegation expressed its readiness to provide technical support and financing for the restoration and modernization of infrastructure, the transition to a green economy, and supporting the private sector to play its role in the growth of the Iraqi economy.

Central Bank of Iraq
Media Office
May 22, 2025  link

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A dinner was held in Washington in the presence of Trump's senior advisor to welcome the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government.

An official dinner was held last Thursday evening, Washington time, to welcome Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Masrour Barzani's visit to the United States. Masad Boulos, senior advisor to US President Donald Trump, was also present.

A statement issued by the regional government stated that during the banquet held in Washington, which was also attended by a group of prominent American figures, Paul warmly welcomed the regional government's prime minister, describing his current visit to the United States as "very successful."

In his remarks, the US President's Advisor also stressed the critical importance of strengthening and consolidating the foundations of the strategic relationship between the Kurdistan Region and the United States, according to the statement.

In a speech on this occasion, the Prime Minister, according to the statement, expressed his "profound thanks and appreciation" to the hosts for their warm welcome and generous hospitality, stressing that "the Kurdistan Region is proud of the close cooperation, continuous support, and deep friendship that binds it to the United States."

He continued, "We look forward to further developing our bilateral relations in various fields and at all levels, in a way that serves the common interests of both sides." link

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Tishwash:  Among them is Iraq.. Iran proposes forming an economic development group consisting of eight countries.

Iranian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ali Reza Enayati proposed establishing an economic development group comprising the Gulf states, his country, and Iraq, according to a report published by the semi-official Iranian Mehr News Agency on Friday.

In a speech delivered at the provincial diplomatic forum in Shiraz, Enayati said, "In addition to political relations, there must be public communication in various economic, tourism, and trade fields."

He added, "The security outlook is shifting from a geopolitical orientation to one of development," adding, "This shift in vision may take time, but we are clearly seeing it in the countries of the Persian Gulf region, and this shift has provided an important opportunity for the Islamic Republic of Iran."

Enayati continued, saying, "Iran and Iraq are located to the north of the Persian Gulf, and to the south of it are six countries. These eight countries can form a single group to develop economic cooperation."

He pointed to the importance of the corridors and Iran's strategic location, noting that "the Iran corridor represents the ideal advantage for Iran, and we can take advantage of this opportunity and transform it into a general economic route for the countries of the region that are now thinking about development." link

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Tishwash:  Sudani: We have made significant progress in economic reform, and investments have reached $88 billion.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani affirmed on Thursday that we have made significant progress in economic reform, with investments reaching $88 billion. Meanwhile, foreign companies have expressed their willingness to contribute to building a green economy, accessing clean fuels, and cooperating in transferring expertise to specialized personnel in Iraq .

Al-Sudani's office stated in a statement received by Mail that "Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani received, today, Thursday, representatives of international companies participating in the International Conference on Carbon Economics, which was held over the past two days in the capital, Baghdad, in the presence of the Minister of Environment ."

The statement continued, "Al-Sudani congratulated the convening of the Carbon Economics Conference, the first of its kind in Iraq, and the resulting outcomes and ideas that support the government's efforts to invest in this field, in light of the climate challenges facing Iraq ."

Al-Sudani stressed that "the government has made significant progress in economic and financial reform and in creating an attractive environment for investors and global companies, with investments reaching approximately $88 billion ."

He added, "Iraq is rapidly moving toward a transition to clean and renewable energy, embodied by the government's establishment of the Carbon Economics Company, which has been granted the authority to contract with international companies to advance this new reality." He directed the Ministry of Environment and the Carbon Economics Company to "simplify procedures and move toward signing partnership contracts with companies, and move toward concrete action ."

For their part, company representatives expressed their interest in participating in the conference, stating that they were "there because of the developments Iraq has witnessed over the past two years, and that they will sign contracts and memoranda of understanding with Carbon Economics ."

They expressed their willingness to "contribute to building a green economy, accessing clean fuels, and cooperating in transferring expertise to specialized personnel in Iraq link

Mot: . these ""Marital Things"" Goooo on and On and

Mot:  Its Time!!!!  

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Friday Morning 5-23-25

The Dollar Is Declining In Iraq. The Reasons Start With The Citizen's Pocket.
 
May 22, Information / Baghdad.. The Iraqi foreign exchange market has recently witnessed a significant decline in the dollar exchange rate, due to a combination of economic and social factors that have directly impacted demand in the parallel market.
 
Iraqi traders have begun to delay imports, driven by expectations that global prices may decline as a result of the decline in oil prices.

This has made many of them refrain from entering into large-scale commercial commitments until the economic picture becomes clearer. https://aja.ws/gh1ewq.
 
In the same context, Iraqi families have begun adopting a more cautious economic approach,
rationalizing spending and reducing consumption in anticipation of any unexpected financial developments that could impact their livelihood stability.
 
This new social behavior has also contributed to reducing demand for goods,
thereby reducing the need for hard currency.
 
In addition, government measures have played a significant role in narrowing the gap between the official and parallel dollar rates,
by expanding the network of banks that provide dollars at the official rate and facilitating import procedures in accordance with regulatory frameworks.
 
This has contributed to reducing reliance on the informal market,
especially after large shopping centers (hypermarkets) began to spread,
relying on imports according to official prices,
which provided consumers with reliable and stable alternatives https://www.ina.iq/229009--.html.
 
In this context, economic expert Safwan Qusay confirmed to Al-Maalouma News Agency that
the decline in demand from Iraqis, particularly traders,
is due to expectations of a decline in global prices due to the decline in oil prices,
which has prompted them to postpone import operations.
 
He explained that there is a near-state of hesitation regarding the import of various goods, and that
Iraqi families have begun adopting a more rational spending policy in anticipation of any future economic developments. He noted that
 
this behavior has directly contributed to reducing demand for the dollar in the informal market. Qusay added that
 
     government efforts to expand access to the official dollar exchange rate through a network of banks,
     traders' familiarity with the mechanism for importing at the official rate, and the
     proliferation of major shopping malls that import goods at the official rate
 
have all contributed to the decline in the dollar exchange rate on the parallel market. He explained that
 
these measures represent important steps towards achieving relative stability in the exchange market
and reducing the gap between the official and parallel rates,
which enhances confidence in monetary policy and the local economy https://alssaa.com/post/show/34076.

This decline in the dollar exchange rate is a positive indicator of the
effectiveness of current economic and monetary policies and
reflects a growing degree of economic awareness among citizens and traders alike.
 
If these factors continue to combine, the market is expected to witness greater stability in exchange rates in the coming period, which will enhance confidence in the national economy and support financial reform  efforts in Iraq   https://almaalomah.me/news/99427/economy/الدولار-يتراجع-في-العراق-الأسباب-تبدأ-من-جيب-المواطن   

Minister Of Finance: We Are Working To Modernize Systems And Enhance Transparency And Financial Discipline
 
Economy     May 20, 2025, 9:14 PM  Baghdad – INA  Finance Minister Taif Sami confirmed on Tuesday that the ministry is working to
 
     modernize administrative and financial systems and
     enhance transparency and financial discipline,
 
in line with the priorities of the government program and to consolidate economic stability.
 
The ministry said in a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA):
 
"Minister of Finance Taif Sami received the economic team at the US Embassy in Baghdad to discuss ways of joint cooperation within the FSVC program to enhance economic and financial capabilities in Iraq." 

The statement added that "the two sides discussed mechanisms to support the general budget and aspects of technical cooperation between the ministry and the US side   in the areas of budget preparation and government accounting,  through the mechanism for implementing the program and performance budget." 

According to the statement, the Minister of Finance stressed "the importance of leveraging international expertise to support ongoing reforms," ​​noting that 
 
"the Ministry is working to
 
     modernize administrative and financial systems,
     enhance transparency and financial discipline,
 
in line with the priorities of the government program, and consolidate economic stability."

The statement continued, "The American team expressed its willingness to
 
     provide technical and advisory support, particularly in
     developing tools for preparing program and performance budgets,
     improving accounting systems, and
     developing financial information systems." The statement concluded by saying,
 
"The two parties agreed to 
     continue coordination and organize training workshops for Ministry employees in a number of technical specialties, to
     support the implementation of best practices in public finance management and
     achieving sustainable development."    https://www.ina.iq/234695--.html 

Foreign Minister: Iraq Is Witnessing An Influx Of Domestic Foreign Investments Estimated At $87 Billion 

Economy    May 19, 2025, Tehran – INA  Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein confirmed on Monday that  Iraq is currently witnessing an influx of domestic foreign investments estimated at $87 billion, while noting that Iraq is playing an active role in bringing the views of opposing countries closer together.
 
In a speech during his participation in the "Tehran Dialogue Forum" organized by the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hussein said, as received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA):
 
"The transformations taking place in Syria are an internal affair that concerns the Syrian people alone," 
stressing "Iraq's respect for the will of the Syrian people."  

He pointed to the "existing security interdependence between Iraq and Syria," expressing his hope that 
"Syria will emerge from the cycle of fighting and sanctions toward a better future."

 He stated that  "stabilization in the region can only be achieved through a comprehensive political process that includes all components of the Syrian people," calling for "the
 
necessity of adopting dialogue as a means of resolving conflicts."

Regarding Iraq's role in the regional scene, the Minister emphasized that
 
"Iraqi foreign policy is based on the principle of dialogue and communication," noting
 
"the effective role Iraq has played in bringing the views of opposing countries closer together."
 
Regarding the recent Arab Summit hosted by Baghdad, the Minister explained that
 
"Iraq is dealing realistically with the challenges facing the Arab world, as
several countries are experiencing internal conflicts and wars."

He emphasized that "Iraq, through its current presidency of the Arab Summit,
has taken it upon itself to play the role of mediator and propose future mechanisms for crisis management."

 He noted "there is an intention to launch initiatives in Yemen, Sudan, Libya, and other countries experiencing crises," explaining that
 
"security is the foundation of development, and  development cannot be achieved without stability."

He explained that "the leaders' presence in Baghdad during the summit sent a clear message about the
stability of the situation in Iraq and the success of its development path."
 
On the economic front, Hussein reviewed the Iraqi government's plans to diversify the economy, noting that
 
Iraq has begun investing in natural gas and expects to reach full domestic gas production by 2028. He explained that
 
the government is moving toward
 
     developing the petrochemical sector,
     activating tourism, particularly religious tourism, and
     supporting the agricultural sector. He noted that
 
Iraq is currently witnessing an influx of domestic foreign investment estimated at $87 billion,
reflecting growing international confidence in the Iraqi economy.   https://www.ina.iq/234593--87-.html   

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Friday Morning 5-23-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps

XRP LEDGER SHARPENS COMPETITIVE EDGE WITH FRESH STABLECOIN ADDITIONS OF EURØP, USDB, AND XSGD

The XRP Ledger (XRPL) just made a major leap forward in the global stablecoin race, with three new fiat-backed stablecoins—EURØP, USDB, and XSGD—joining its ecosystem this week.

This marks a significant expansion of XRPL’s role as a preferred blockchain for cross-border financial transactions and fintech innovation, thanks to its low fees, fast finality, regulatory readiness, and native real-world asset support.

1. EURØP: MiCA-Compliant Euro Stablecoin

On May 22, EURØP, issued by Schuman Financial, became the first MiCA-regulated euro stablecoin on XRPL.

• Fully backed by reserves held at top-tier European banks.

• Audited by KPMG.

• Issuer licensed by France’s ACPR (Banque de France).

“This will give Europe and euro-denominated financial markets an integral infrastructure for the next wave of financial innovation, which is happening on-chain,” said Martin Bruncko, CEO of Schuman Financial.

2. USDB: New USD Option for Brazil

Also on May 22, Brazilian fintech Braza Group launched USDB, a USD-backed stablecoin on XRPL, adding to its earlier BBRL token.

• Braza CEO Marcelo Sacomori sees USDB as a hedge for Brazilians against local currency volatility.

• Projected to reach 30% market share of Brazil’s USD-pegged stablecoin segment by end of 2026.

“New pathways for global currency settlement” will drive the token’s adoption, said Sacomori.

3. XSGD: Singapore’s Stablecoin Comes to XRPL

XSGD, backed 1:1 with reserves at DBS Bank and Standard Chartered, officially launched on May 19.

Issued by StraitsX, a key digital payments provider in Southeast Asia, XSGD is aimed at:

• Financial institutions,

• Startups, and

• Developers seeking fast, low-cost, compliant-ready digital transactions.

“Regulated stablecoins like XSGD will serve as the foundation for borderless, real-time financial services,” said Liu Tianwei, Co-Founder and Deputy CEO of StraitsX.

📈 A Growing Stablecoin Hub

The XRP Ledger is rapidly positioning itself as a stablecoin hub, now offering options for euro (EURØP), U.S. dollar (USDB), and Singapore dollar (XSGD) transactions—each backed by fully regulated, real-world banking infrastructure.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  CryptoSlate

~~~~~~~~~

BRICS NEWS: MAJOR UPDATE ON TEN-YEAR DE-DOLLARIZATION PLAN

Amid rising global tensions and economic uncertainty, the BRICS alliance has issued a surprising update on its decade-long de-dollarization strategy, signaling a potential shift in tone and expectation for the US dollar's global role.

Background: BRICS vs. the Dollar

• The BRICS bloc (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) has spent the last few years pushing to reduce global reliance on the US dollar, aiming to launch its own trade currency.

• This effort has faced intensifying pressure in 2025 as US President Donald Trump, now in his second term, responded with 150% tariffs on BRICS nations, citing their anti-dollar efforts.

New Outlook: Dollar May Stay on Top

Despite the hostile rhetoric and early-year momentum toward dollar alternatives, Brazil, which holds the 2025 BRICS chairmanship, has made a startling admission:

“There is no realistic prospect of any currency overtaking the US dollar’s dominance over the next decade,” said Nilton David, Brazil’s Monetary Policy Director.

• This represents a major pivot from Brazil’s previous stance as a vocal proponent of full-scale de-dollarization.

• David acknowledged only a small chance of meaningful change in USD dominance by 2035.

Key Takeaways

• BRICS is not abandoning the de-dollarization agenda, but it's tempering expectations.

• The US dollar is still under threat from global dissatisfaction, but full replacement appears unlikely in the near future.

• This could signal a strategic shift: instead of dethroning the dollar, BRICS may now focus on creating a competitive alternative for trade and finance.

The Road Ahead

The "America First" and protectionist policies of the Trump administration have contributed to falling confidence in the greenback, yet they have not yet accelerated BRICS’ efforts to build an immediate replacement.

💬 The question now: Will BRICS build a viable alternative to compete, even if not to replace the US dollar?

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Watcher Guru

~~~~~~~~~

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MilitiaMan and Crew: Iraq Dinar News Update-Confidence-Stability-Exchange Rate-Purchasing Power-Cyber Security-Media

MilitiaMan and Crew:  Iraq Dinar News Update-Confidence-Stability-Exchange Rate-Purchasing Power-Cyber Security-Media

5-22-2025

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=iymce2o9XaM

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Thursday Afternoon 5-22-25

Central Bank: A Comprehensive Five-Pronged Plan To Combat Money Laundering

Banks  Economy News – Baghdad  The Central Bank announced on Thursday that it has put in place preventative measures to combat money laundering across various sectors, while noting that there is international cooperation at the strategic level involving international organizations.

Hussein Ali, Deputy Director General of the Central Bank's Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism Office, said, "The crime of money laundering is linked to the extent of the predicate crime being committed domestically, as well as to the extent of preventative measures taken by the state."

He explained that, "Based on a comprehensive assessment of the anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing system, weaknesses in this system were identified, where they are being exploited, which sectors are being exploited in money laundering, and which predicate crimes are most commonly committed."

He added, "After identifying these crimes and the points where money laundering occurs, mitigating measures were put in place to address the risks of money laundering through these sectors."

He continued, "Easing measures have been put in place in the real estate sector, with real estate sales being conducted through the banking sector. Special measures have also been put in place in the gold sector, with financial institutions enforcing stricter controls on gold transfers."

He pointed out that "electronic cards, which were exploited by some unscrupulous individuals for foreign withdrawals, were used to benefit from the exchange rate or to move illegal funds. This phenomenon has been curbed and mitigated by establishing controls and updating the limits on these cards so that they are no longer useful to those who make foreign withdrawals."

He emphasized that "all these treatments are based on a real evaluation process with very precise results, which helped ensure that the treatments were specific and focused."

He noted that "the Anti-Money Laundering Law addresses all these sectors, and there are international and national studies that identify new trends pursued by money launderers. Every time a new method is added, countries implement preventative measures for it."

He explained that "one of the methods also includes registering fake companies, and there are procedures in place for this in cooperation with the Companies Registration Department, including the process of identifying the real beneficiary of these companies, which is a very important matter to prevent the use of front companies for these companies."

He pointed out that "the Iraqi state took appropriate measures, and even when it was evaluated by the Financial Action Task Force, the evaluation result regarding the beneficial owner issue was appropriate for Iraq's situation."

He pointed out that "all measures taken are based on a risk-based approach, so that when there are risks, measures are taken to address them, while private transactions involving citizens are not complicated."

He emphasized that "all countries in the world cooperate in the field of combating money laundering through multiple channels, and in the Anti-Money Laundering Office we have counterpart offices called counterpart units."

He explained that "information is exchanged with these units without any conditions, and without the involvement of diplomatic bodies such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the intelligence service."

He stated that "there is international cooperation at the strategic level through reports and through our participation in relevant international organizations," noting that "regarding our work, we conduct an investigation, and after completing the file, it is referred to the judiciary, and we say that this person carried out a money laundering operation, and took out the funds of such-and-such state, and this money reached such-and-such a value, and is present in such-and-such accounts, and after that, there is official judicial cooperation from one judiciary to another for the purpose of seizing and confiscating the funds."  https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=55722

The Association Of Private Banks Holds A Specialized Workshop On "Control Guidelines For Internal Assessment Of Capital Adequacy Standards"

Advisor to the Association of Banks, Samir Al-Nusairi  Banks  Economy News – Baghdad  The Iraqi Private Banks Association held a specialized workshop on the subject of regulatory controls for the internal assessment of capital adequacy standards.

The seminar hosted representatives of the Central Bank, including the relevant managers of the Banking Supervision Department at the Central Bank, and was attended by representatives of all commercial and Islamic banks, including the directors of risk, compliance, credit, internal and financial audit, and members of the boards of directors who are members of the Risk Committee.

The workshop was moderated by the Association of Banks' advisor, Samir Al-Nusairi, who spoke about the objectives of regulatory standards for capital adequacy in accordance with the requirements of the Basel Committee's second pillar to secure a capital buffer to mitigate risks. He emphasized the need to strengthen and improve corporate governance in banks based on the Environmental and Social Standards Guide issued in 2024.

He pointed out that the comprehensive banking reform project, which the Central Bank is working to implement in cooperation with the global consulting firm Oliver Wyman, is sponsored and supported by the government.

Central Bank representatives Ali Abdul Aziz and Hussein Reda spoke about the details of the regulations and tasks required of banks, as well as the procedures and timelines required to implement the regulations over the coming year.

The attendees discussed the regulations and observations that required clarification and answers from the Central Bank. These were answered by Central Bank representatives. At the conclusion of the workshop, it was decided to form a permanent joint working group between the Central Bank and the banks to follow up on implementation and address any obstacles that may hinder implementation.

Specialized workshops and training courses will also be held for relevant leadership cadres on the boards of directors and executive management at banks to ensure accurate implementation and application of the regulations.   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=55727

Rafidain: Extension Of The Period For The Sale Of National Bonds - The Third Issue

Economy | 05:40 - 05/22/2025  Mawazine News – Baghdad Rafidain Bank announced today, Thursday, the extension of the sale period of the third national bond issue until June 3, 2025, in response to the growing demand from citizens for this type of financial instrument, and in accordance with the directives of the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Iraq.

The bank explained in an official statement that this extension comes within the framework of supporting the culture of national savings and encouraging safe investment, in addition to contributing to financing economic development projects within the country.

The statement indicated that two types of bonds are available to investors:

• First bond:
• Nominal value: 500,000 Iraqi dinars
• Annual interest: 8%
• Investment period: two years
• Payment mechanism: Interest paid semi-annually

• Second bond:
• Nominal value: 1,000,000 Iraqi dinars
• Annual interest: 10%
• Investment period: four years
• Payment mechanism: Interest paid semi-annually

The bank called on citizens wishing to invest their savings in guaranteed instruments with a fixed return to visit the nearest Rafidain Bank branch to take advantage of the available opportunity before the specified period ends.   https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=261796

The Prime Minister Announces The Launch Of The National Security Strategy (2025-2030)

Thursday, May 22, 2025 15:07 | Umniah Number of reads: 347   Baghdad / NINA / Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani announced the launch of the National Security Strategy (2025-2030).

According to a statement by his media office, Al-Sudani congratulated the national elite who were appointed from all state institutions to implement this strategy, stressing his serious support for the implementation of this task.

The Prime Minister stressed that the importance of this strategy lies in its protection of the supreme interest of the country, building a diversified and sustainable development economy, and adopting a service system that matches the aspirations of the people.

He said that we all bear the responsibility of building our homeland, protecting it and its sanctities in accordance with a fully sovereign and secure Iraq to achieve stability and development. https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?Key=1228435

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