Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Monday Afternoon 8-18-25

The Central Bank Of Iraq Sold More Than $35 Billion In Sales Over The Past Five Months

Banks   Economy News – Baghdad  The Central Bank's hard currency sales on Monday amounted to more than $35 billion over the past five months.

The bank stated in a statistic that "the bank's hard currency sales during the first five months of 2025 amounted to $35 billion and 201 million."

He continued, "Sales were distributed between external transfers amounting to $30.264 million, international settlements amounting to $3.649 billion, and cash sales amounting to $1.288 billion."

The bank noted that these sales, during the first five months of the current year, amounted to $35.2 billion, a 15.66% increase over the same period last year, which amounted to $30.435 billion. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=58926

A Slight Rise In The Dollar Price In The Markets Of Baghdad And Erbil

Monday, August 18, 2025 | Economic Number of reads: 188  Baghdad / NINA / The US dollar exchange rate rose slightly, Monday morning, in the markets of Baghdad and Erbil.

The selling price of the dollar in the Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya stock exchanges recorded 140,950 Iraqi dinars for $100, compared to 140,450 dinars for $100 yesterday, Sunday.

The selling price in the exchange market in the local markets in Baghdad recorded 142,000 dinars for $100, and the buying price was 140,000 dinars for $100.

In Erbil, the dollar recorded a similar rise, as the selling price reached 140,750 dinars for every $100, while the buying price was 140,650 dinars for $100. / End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1246943

Al-Alaq Details Iraq's Banking Reform Plan

Banks  Economy News – Baghdad   Central Bank Governor Ali Al-Alaq clarified the details of the banking reform plan on Monday, particularly regarding the foreign partner and the plan's objectives.

 He emphasized that the foreign partner is not a condition of the reform plan, while noting that the banking reform is based on international laws and standards.

Al-Alaq said, "The banking reform plan is not a surprise, but rather a well-thought-out plan that took more than a year to develop, in coordination with banks and international bodies. It was agreed upon the need to review the Iraqi banking sector after years of practical experience."

He pointed out that, "After the emergence of many problems, an agreement was reached between all parties to adopt a plan that places our banks within international standards and practices, and within the framework of the Central Bank Law and the Iraqi Banking Law.

Therefore, the standards are not innovative, but rather stem from the Central Bank Law and international practices and standards." He explained that, "The goal of these standards is to ensure that the status of banks is stable and secure, that they have the ability to deal externally, and that they are accepted internally and externally."

Regarding enhancing confidence in banks, Al-Alaq explained: "It is often mentioned that the plan included the inclusion of a foreign partner, while the plan, in all its details, did not include this. We are talking about diversified ownership by financial institutions and individuals, and these Iraqi institutions are more deserving of participation."

He continued, "The plan also included the establishment of a fund for Iraqis that would allow a number of local shareholders, and even citizens, to enter into partnerships with banks." He emphasized that "bringing in a foreign partner is not prohibited, but it is not a requirement, as rumored. We publish all the criteria in detail, and this is not mentioned in them."

The Central Bank Governor added, "After a thorough study of the plan and in agreement with international bodies and correspondent banks, we believe that banks that can adhere to these standards will have their dollar transactions lifted and will establish normal relationships with foreign correspondent banks.

Therefore, the matter is optional, and banks that do not wish to participate in this plan have another option, but they must present alternatives that enable them to be accepted locally and internationally."

He pointed out that "one of the outcomes of the plan we are working on is to address the situation of deprived banks. If banks are able to adhere to the agreed-upon local and international standards, restrictions related to dealing in dollars will be lifted from them."

He emphasized that "the plan is designed to benefit banks, and those who believe they are unable to implement it should offer themselves other solutions to address the problem." https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=58922

The Planning Ministry Is Discussing With Sectoral Ministries The Mechanisms For Proposing And Financing Projects With World Bank Loans

Monday, August 18, 2025 | Economic Number of reads: 213  Baghdad / NINA / The Ministry of Planning held its third joint meeting on Monday with a number of sectoral ministries to discuss mechanisms for proposing projects and financing them through World Bank loans.

The meeting was chaired, according to a statement by the ministry, by the Director General of the Sector Planning Department at the ministry, Basem Dhari Mahmoud, with the participation of representatives from the Ministries of Construction, Housing, Municipalities and Public Works, Water Resources, Agriculture, Environment, Education, in addition to the Baghdad Municipality.

The meeting discussed most of the projects submitted by the sectoral agencies and completing their financing ceilings in line with the national development plan and the integrated strategy for education. The projects will be presented and approved during the coming period in coordination with the World Bank, in preparation for their inclusion in the general budget law for next year. https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1246992

Gold Prices Rebound From Lows, Eyes On Trump-Zelensky Meeting

Monday, August 18, 2025 | Economic Number of reads: 245   Baghdad / NINA / Gold prices rose on Monday, after hitting their lowest level in two weeks, supported by a decline in US Treasury yields, as investors awaited a meeting between US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and European leaders to discuss a peace agreement with Russia.

By dawn today, spot gold rose 0.3% to $3,345.64 per ounce, after recording its lowest level since August 1.  US gold futures for December delivery also rose 0.3%, to $3,391.80.

Investors are also awaiting the annual conference of the Federal Reserve (the US central bank) in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Economists largely expect the US central bank to announce an interest rate cut in September, its first cut this year, with a second cut possible by the end of the year amid mounting US economic woes.

As for other precious metals, silver rose in spot transactions by 0.3% to $38.08 per ounce, platinum rose by 0.8% to $1,346.61 per ounce, and palladium rose by 1.3% to $1,126.85 per ounce. /End
https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1246922

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Afternoon 8-18-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

BRICS Members in 2025: Full List, New Member Countries & Global Impact

The BRICS alliance has expanded significantly, now including eleven member nations as of 2025. What began with five founding members has grown into a geopolitical and economic force representing over 40% of the world’s population and 37.3% of global GDP. With Saudi Arabia finalizing its membership in July 2025, BRICS continues to attract nations searching for alternatives to Western-led institutions.

Current BRICS Members and Expansion

Originally formed in 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China—later joined by South Africa in 2010—the BRICS bloc has become an anchor for emerging economies.

• 2024 expansion: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates joined on January 1, 2024.

• 2025 expansion: Indonesia joined in January 2025, followed by Saudi Arabia in July 2025.

This brings the current BRICS membership to eleven nations.

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized:
“Adding new economies will inject new vitality into BRICS cooperation and increase the representativeness and influence of BRICS.”

Which Countries Want to Join BRICS

Interest continues to rise, with 32 countries signaling interest and 23 filing official applications.

The alliance has also created a circle of 13 “partner countries,” including Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.

Top candidates for membership include:

• Bahrain

• Malaysia

• Turkey

• Vietnam

• Belarus

• Sri Lanka

• Mexico

• Kuwait

• Thailand

• Uzbekistan

Oil producers such as Bahrain and Kuwait aim to leverage their resources as strategic bargaining chips, while Mexico could deliver Latin American access and Belarus offers an Eastern European foothold.

Thailand stated:
“Joining BRICS would benefit Thailand in many respects and boost prospects of being one of the international economic policy makers.”

Economic Impact of BRICS

The expanded bloc now represents 3.3 billion people and wields 37.3% of global GDP (PPP).

• China: 19.05%

• India: 8.23%

With Iran, UAE, and Saudi Arabia onboard, BRICS members control nearly half of global oil production and roughly 35% of total oil consumption.

S&P Global noted:
“With Saudi onboard the BRICS grouping would be a commodities powerhouse.”

Meanwhile, the New Development Bank (NDB) has financed over $32 billion across 96 projects since 2016, pioneering local-currency infrastructure loans that reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar.

Challenges Facing BRICS

Despite its growth, the alliance faces internal divisions:

• China and Russia are pushing rapid expansion.

• Brazil and India are urging a more cautious approach.

This tension has slowed decision-making on new member admissions and economic integration strategies.

Political reactions have been sharp:

• U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed the bloc outright: “BRICS is dead.”

• UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted its appeal to developing nations:
  “This system was created by rich countries to benefit rich countries. Practically no African country was sitting at the table of the Bretton Woods Agreement.”

Global Shift

The BRICS expansion underscores a multipolar shift in global governance, giving developing nations new financial and trade pathways outside the traditional Western order. With dozens of nations waiting to join, BRICS is positioning itself as the central counterweight to the U.S.-led system in global finance, energy, and trade.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Watcher.Guru   

~~~~~~~~~

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MilitiaMan and Crew: Iraq Dinar News Update-K2 Integrity-Oil-Salaries-REER

MilitiaMan and Crew:  Iraq Dinar News Update-K2 Integrity-Oil-Salaries-REER

8-18-2025

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=ijsJtPsyR88

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Monday Morning 8-18-25

Philosophy Of Economic Empowerment
 
Economic 2025/08/18   Abdul Zahra Muhammad Al-Hindawi   Months ago, the Ministry of Labor
 launched a series of initiatives  aimed at transforming social protection beneficiaries  from aid recipients to productive members of the labor market.
 
It also launched intensive efforts to rehabilitate large numbers of young people through training courses that provide them with the skills necessary to integrate into the labor market.

Undoubtedly, these policies express the true philosophy behind the concept of economic empowerment for poor families, which represents a shift from the logic of temporary support to sustainable production.
 
The assistance received by social protection beneficiaries should be a transitional phase,
     enabling individuals to   overcome their difficult circumstances and  reach a stage of self-sufficiency and self-reliance.
 
Of course, there are groups who cannot be deprived of these benefits,
     such as the elderly or those with complex disabilities,
     who have lost the ability to meet their basic needs.
 
Although Iraq's social protection policy has largely succeeded in   reducing poverty rates and
 saving thousands of families from destitution,  it has also created financial and structural challenges.
 
The increase in the number of families covered by the program to more than two million means that we are talking about nearly a quarter of Iraq's population,  which places increasing pressure on the general budget.
 
Furthermore, some youth groups now view the subsidy salary as a convenient solution that replaces work,  given the lack of incentives for development or engagement in the production market.
 
In the face of these challenges, the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs has taken action along three integrated paths.
 
The first is to identify the truly poor, which has contributed to improving inclusion standards and making them more equitable and realistic.
 
The second path involves clearing the protection network of those who are not entitled to it,
 which represents a significant achievement in   rationalizing spending and   directing support to those who deserve it.
 
The third path has been directed towards strengthening economic empowerment,
which represents the most important pillar, as it aims to address poverty at its roots.
 
Empowerment is the transition from the concept of "receiving aid" to "creating opportunity," and from a state of helplessness to a space for production.

Therefore, it requires    greater attention from the state and   more coordination between the Ministries of    Labor,  Planning,   Education,    Finance, and the   private sector to  support small projects and   encourage youth to innovate and produce,   instead of relying on and waiting for aid.
 
The experiences of many countries, such as China, Brazil, India, and Rwanda,
     have proven that economic empowerment policies are not only more sustainable,
     but also lead to reduced dependence on government support and broad-based economic growth.
 
What we need today is to reframe our priorities so that empowerment policies become the norm,
and aid becomes a temporary exception.
 
The future of social justice in Iraq lies not only in the efficient distribution of aid,
 but also in our ability to transform beneficiaries into producers, and  rependents into economic actors.
 
This is the essence of the empowerment philosophy,  in light of which policies must be reshaped.    
  
https://alsabaah.iq/119086-.html  

Al-Ahly First, Baghdad Second... Bank Profits Reveal Foreign Dominance
 
August 16, 2025 Last updated: August 16, 2025   Al-Mustaqilla/- A document obtained by the Independent Press Agency revealed the profit rates of Iraqi banks during the first half of this year,  shedding light on the    reality of the banking sector and the   dominance of some foreign banks within it.
 
According to the document, the     National Bank of Iraq topped the list of profits, occupying first place, while the     Bank of Baghdad came in second, and     Mansour Bank came in third.
 
Data indicates that profits generated by foreign banks operating in Iraq remain substantial,
     amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars, even as  the local banking sector faces widespread criticism for its     poor performance and     declining public confidence.
 
This arrangement comes amid an ongoing crisis of confidence between the public and Iraqi banks,
     particularly after a number of banks were placed on US sanctions lists, and     others were subjected to    liquidation or   audit procedures by the Central Bank.
 
Observers believe that the continued dominance of foreign banks in the Iraqi market reflects the
     fragility of the financial structure of local banks and   their weak ability to compete.
 
This requires radical reforms to   banking policies and a   comprehensive restructuring of the sector
 to bolster depositor confidence. https://mustaqila.com/الأهلي-أولاً-وبغداد-ثانياً-أرباح-المص/   

The Central Bank Announces The Launch Of A Project Financing Guide.
 
August 17, 2025  The Central Bank of Iraq announced the launch of a guide to accessing financing for small, medium, and micro enterprises,  in cooperation with the  German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ) and the   Iraqi Private Banks Association.
 
In his speech during the launch ceremony of the guide,
the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Dr. Ammar Khalaf, said:
 
“Iraq has witnessed a multiplicity of lending providers.
 
The Central Bank of Iraq, through the National Lending Strategy,
has developed a guide that complements this strategy.
 
It   enables entrepreneurs to develop their businesses and  provides a mature and informative destination for all loans, providing a new opportunity for  easier access and    faster procedures for obtaining financing.”
 
The Deputy Governor noted that  the banking reform strategy adopted by the Central Bank of Iraq
 will support procedures for accessing project financing according to a clear vision          to enhance confidence in the Iraqi banking system.
    
    Central Bank of Iraq    Media Office    https://cbi.iq/news/view/2959 

 
An Economist Points To Strategic Gains Iraq Is Making In The Oil And Water Sectors.
 
Economy, | 504   Baghdad Today – Baghdad  Economic expert Nabil Al-Marsoumi confirmed on Saturday (August 16, 2025) that the  construction of the Iraq-Syria pipeline represents a strategic gain that reduces shipping distances to European markets.

He also pointed out that  the joint seawater supply project is the key to achieving huge gains in oil production from Iraq.
 
Al-Marsoumi said in a post on his Facebook account, followed by Baghdad Today, that  
“in 2009, the Ministry of Oil formed a team headed by Engineer Alaa Al-Asadi to discover and inspect the Iraqi-Syrian pipeline from Kirkuk to the Syrian border with the Italian company Saipem,” noting that
 
“the committee stated in its report that the cost of rehabilitating the pipeline amounted to $780 million,
while the cost of establishing a new pipeline with a length of 888 km, a diameter of 40 inches, and a
capacity of 1.250 million barrels per day reached $11 billion at 2009 prices, and
 
it is expected that the cost will rise to $14 billion at today’s prices,
     especially since the pipeline is completely destroyed.”

He added,  Although this pipeline is a strategic gain,
     reducing shipping distances to European markets,
     reducing dependence on chokepoints in the Arabian Gulf, and
     giving Iraq an additional option for exporting north at a time when its only current route,
     via the port of Ceyhan in Turkey, is facing severe pressure, transporting crude oil from Kirkuk to southern Iraq for export to the Gulf is still the cheapest route by about $1 per barrel.
 
This cost will rise to between $3 and $5 per barrel in tariffs and insurance via the Kirkuk-Banias pipeline, in addition to additional capital investments to repair the pipeline." He indicated that
 
"transportation costs and transit fees will rise significantly if the transport of Kirkuk oil is limited, as the pipeline's capacity will not exceed 300,000 barrels per day."
 
In another context, the economic expert explained that the China Petroleum Engineering and Construction Corporation (CPECC) won a contract for a seawater pipeline project from processing facilities to various oil fields throughout Basra, valued at $2.524 billion. He pointed out that
 
"the joint seawater supply project is the key to achieving massive gains in oil production from Iraq.
 
The seawater project is one of four projects that have been referred to the French company Total as part of the integrated southern project.
 
It aims to provide 5 million barrels per day, later increasing to 7.5 million barrels per day,
 
for the purpose of water injection and sustaining oil production in the Basra, Maysan and Dhi Qar fields, and over a length of no less than 1,000 kilometers of fields."
 
The British newspaper, The Guardian, published a shocking report on how oil companies are using fresh water in oil extraction operations, depriving citizens and agriculture in the country of huge quantities of water, exposing the environment to serious risks, and contributing to the spread of serious diseases.
 
According to the newspaper, an analysis of satellite images revealed that the Italian company Eni is building a dam on the Basra Canal to divert water to its treatment plants.
 
Other companies, such as BP and ExxonMobil, are using up to 25% of Iraq's potable water for the same purpose.     https://baghdadtoday.news/281029-.html  

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Morning 8-18-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

The United States Prepares a Complete Overhaul of DeFi

Regulatory Overhaul on the Horizon

The U.S. Treasury has placed decentralized finance (DeFi) under sweeping review as part of the GENIUS Act, signed in July 2025 by President Donald Trump. The initiative targets the anonymity of DeFi transactions, aiming to combat money laundering and terrorist financing by embedding digital identity verification directly into DeFi smart contracts.

This would require users to prove their identity—via government-issued IDs or even biometric data—before completing transactions.

Coding Compliance Into DeFi

The Treasury’s proposal seeks to integrate KYC (Know Your Customer) requirements into the very code of DeFi protocols. According to its official notice, these identity tools are meant to balance compliance with user privacy, while reducing burdens for financial institutions.

Banks and regulators largely support the move, but many in the crypto community view it as a threat to anonymity and a break from DeFi’s founding principles.

Technology at the Center

The consultation paper highlights four key tools for regulatory enforcement:

• Artificial Intelligence

• Surveillance APIs

• Blockchain Analytics

• Digital Identity Systems

By making these technologies native features of DeFi platforms, regulators aim to ensure the law cannot be circumvented through code.

Industry Reactions

• Crypto Community: Critics warn of a dangerous precedent, fearing that U.S.-mandated universal KYC could spread globally and stifle innovation. Concerns also focus on data protection risks if personal identifiers are hard-coded into protocols.

• Banking Sector: Groups like the Bank Policy Institute (BPI) support the move but also flagged loopholes in the GENIUS Act, warning Congress that some stablecoin issuers could bypass interest-payment restrictions, potentially shifting up to $6.6 trillion in bank deposits into stablecoins.

Key Facts and Timeline

• Public consultation launched: August 18, 2025

• Comments accepted until: October 17, 2025

• Applies to: All DeFi platforms offering services in the U.S.

• Targeted enforcement tools: API, AI, blockchain monitoring, digital identity

Political Pushback

Not all policymakers are aligned. Senator Elizabeth Warren argues the GENIUS Act could weaken transparency rather than strengthen it, legitimizing opaque practices under the guise of innovation.

The Bigger Picture

The U.S. strategy represents a paradigm shift: regulation will be embedded in DeFi infrastructure itself. The era of uncontrolled decentralized finance is ending, and the next chapter will test how much freedom DeFi can retain under government scrutiny.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: CoinTribune

~~~~~~~~~

Will U.S. Regulation Kill Decentralized Finance, or Simply Reshape It?

The United States has moved from watching decentralized finance (DeFi) to attempting to engineer regulation directly into its foundations. Under the GENIUS Act, the Treasury is consulting on rules that would insert identity verification and compliance mechanisms into the very code of DeFi smart contracts. The official justification is clear: stop money laundering, curb terrorist financing, and close loopholes that could drain liquidity from traditional banks.

But the deeper question remains — will this end decentralization?

The Case for the “End of DeFi”

For many, the answer is yes — at least within U.S. borders. By requiring:

• Portable digital identifiers for every transaction,

• KYC baked into smart contracts, and

• AI-driven compliance tools tied directly to platforms,

the government would effectively erase the anonymity and permissionless nature that define DeFi. In this model, “decentralized” finance begins to look more like a tokenized extension of the banking system, where innovation bends to regulatory code.

The Counterpoint: DeFi is Global

Yet DeFi was never designed to exist in a single jurisdiction. Code can be deployed anywhere, and users can access protocols across borders. If the U.S. tightens rules, offshore DeFi will continue without these restrictions, keeping anonymity and censorship resistance alive. Other nations may even embrace this shift, hoping to attract the next wave of innovation that America appears to be constraining.

A Two-Track Future

Rather than a complete “end,” what is emerging is a split reality:

1. Regulated DeFi (CeDeFi):

• U.S. and European platforms that integrate KYC and compliance.

• Tailored for banks, institutional investors, and regulated entities.

• Less innovation, but far more legitimacy in financial markets.

2. True DeFi (Permissionless):

• Offshore or pseudonymous projects that maintain full decentralization.

• Higher innovation potential, but riskier for users facing regulatory pushback.

• Likely to attract those unwilling to trade away anonymity.

Why the U.S. is Pushing Now

The timing is not accidental. Bank groups warn that up to $6.6 trillion in deposits could flow into stablecoins, destabilizing traditional finance. For regulators, the threat is not just about crime or terrorism — it is about control of capital flows. If trillions shift into DeFi outside the banking system, central banks lose visibility and authority.

Conclusion: Decentralization Won’t Die, But It Will Change

The U.S. is not ending DeFi — it is reshaping it into a regulated, institution-friendly framework. True decentralization will survive, but it may migrate offshore, becoming harder for Americans to access.

The result? Two parallel worlds:

• Compliant DeFi for Wall Street.

• Permissionless DeFi for the rest of the world.

In this sense, the fight over DeFi’s future is not about technology alone — it is about whether financial sovereignty remains in the hands of individuals, or is recoded into the architecture of regulation.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  AI ChatGPT

~~~~~~~~~

XRP News: Can Ripple Replace Banks Worldwide?

Riccardo Spagni’s viral post reignites debate as Ripple rides legal victories, political endorsements, and market optimism.

A viral post from Riccardo Spagni, the former lead developer of Monero, has thrust XRP back into the spotlight — and reignited one of crypto’s most divisive debates: can Ripple and XRP eventually replace banks?

Ripple Momentum Builds on Legal & Political Wins

The timing of Spagni’s remarks is significant. Ripple has been riding a string of favorable developments, including the SEC formally dropping its lawsuit against the company. The momentum was amplified when President Donald Trump named XRP as a potential part of the U.S. digital asset reserve stockpile — a surprise endorsement that sent ripples across markets.

XRP’s performance reflects this surge in confidence. Rising from under $1 in late 2024 to over $3.60 by mid-2025, XRP has remained one of the year’s strongest tokens, even after retracing from recent highs. Ripple continues to push its narrative of XRP as a global bridge currency, further boosting investor interest.

Critics Push Back: “Replacing Banks is Unrealistic”

Not everyone is convinced. Spagni revealed that a close friend — previously skeptical of crypto — wanted to buy XRP, persuaded by the belief that banks would be gone within two years. While bullish XRP holders welcomed the statement, critics quickly pushed back.

Skeptics argue that XRP cannot truly replace banks, and warn that granting such influence to Ripple risks creating a single point of failure — running counter to blockchain’s promise of decentralization. Some community members dismissed the hype outright, calling it little more than an orchestrated marketing narrative.

Analysts Warn of Downside Pressure

Amid the heated debate, on-chain analyst Ali Martinez issued a cautious note. He observed that XRP has recently slipped below the key $3 support level, which could expose the token to further downside — possibly to $2.60 or even $2 if bearish momentum accelerates.

At the same time, XRP bulls remain undeterred, with some analysts continuing to forecast a potential rally to $4 by year-end. For many newcomers — like the friend in Spagni’s story — optimism appears to outweigh caution.

Ripple’s Marketing Engine in Overdrive

Even Ripple’s harshest critics concede one thing: its marketing machine is unmatched in crypto. Social media engagement around XRP consistently outpaces most other tokens, drawing fresh retail investors into the ecosystem.

But detractors argue this success is fueled by questionable narratives. Some allege that Ripple funds campaigns exaggerating the collapse of banks or the inevitability of XRP as the “global bridge asset.” One critic, known online as Fish Catfish, even suggested investigative journalists should scrutinize Ripple’s media influence more closely.

Outlook

The debate over XRP’s ultimate role is far from settled. Supporters see Ripple as the front-runner for global financial integration, while critics view it as overhyped and fundamentally centralized.

What remains undeniable is that XRP continues to command disproportionate attention in crypto markets — whether as the future of finance, or as one of the industry’s most polarizing tokens.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Coinpedia

~~~~~~~~~

Investors May Soon Earn 4–7% Annual Yield on XRP Holdings

Flare Labs and Firelight are collaborating to bring decentralized finance opportunities to XRP holders, with projected yields ranging from 4% to 7% annually.

Flare & Firelight Introduce XRP Yield Opportunities
In a recent interview with Scott Melker, Hugo Philion (CEO of Flare Labs) and Jesus Rodriguez (CTO of Sentora and lead at Firelight) revealed details of their joint initiative. The project aims to allow XRP holders to lend, borrow, and generate yield—unlocking new use cases for an asset historically used only for payments.

Philion compared the concept to Ethereum’s MakerDAO, where investors can lock XRP as collateral to mint stablecoins, acquire assets, or provide liquidity to DeFi protocols. He emphasized that Flare’s approach avoids custodial risks by using FXRP, a wrapped version of XRP secured by network validators, enabling non-custodial transfers and lending.

4–7% Yield Potential for Idle XRP
Rodriguez highlighted that internal tests showed potential annual returns of 4% to 7% for XRP holders. He described this as groundbreaking for an asset that has traditionally generated no yield, noting that restaking strategies could further expand XRP’s DeFi capabilities.

Community Divided on Risk vs. Reward
The XRP community has responded with mixed reactions:

• Brad Kimes (Digital Perspectives): Called it a milestone that could unlock “the biggest release of idle liquidity in crypto,” comparing it to turning XRP into a bond-like income stream.

• Attorney Bill Morgan: Welcomed the yield prospects as a much-needed incentive for long-term holders.

• Vet (XRP Ledger validator): Warned that 7% yield may not justify the risks of deploying volatile assets into DeFi strategies, urging the ecosystem to move beyond short-term speculation.

Morgan suggested that the ideal product would allow holders to lock XRP long-term while borrowing safely against it for liquidity, though such solutions remain in development.

With Flare and Firelight pushing ahead, XRP could soon transform from a non-yielding asset into one that provides steady income streams, potentially reshaping its role in global finance.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: The Crypto Basic

~~~~~~~~~

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“Tidbits From TNT” Monday Morning 8-18-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Some of them are crucial.. The Coordination Framework will meet tomorrow to discuss five files.

An informed source within the Coordination Framework, which brings together Shiite political forces excluding the Sadrist bloc, revealed the agenda for the framework's meeting scheduled for Monday evening, Sunday.

The source told Shafaq News Agency, "The framework will discuss a number of important issues tomorrow, Monday, including the visit of the Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Ali Larijani, to Baghdad last Monday, and his signing of a security memorandum of understanding related to security coordination on the common border between the two countries."

He added, "The framework will also discuss the withdrawal of US forces from Iraq according to the agreed-upon timetable, including a full withdrawal from the Iraqi government-controlled area by September 2025, and from the Kurdistan Region by September 2026."

He pointed out that "the Coordination Framework will also discuss the issue of oil exports via the Turkish port of Ceyhan, which has been suspended since March 2023 following a ruling by the International Chamber of Commerce's Court of Arbitration in Paris, resulting in losses estimated at billions of dollars due to the disruption of supplies."

The source also revealed that the framework will discuss the parliamentary elections scheduled for November 11, 2025, the issue of the Electoral Commission's disqualification of some candidates, and the compensation mechanism for those excluded, who number in the hundreds.

In this context, the source noted that "the Coordination Framework forces may resort to holding a subsequent meeting with the head of the High Elections Commission to discuss the exclusion and compensation mechanism in some detail and in accordance with applicable laws."

For its part, the Electoral Commission clarified that the disqualifications were due to the candidates' violation of Article 7/Third of the House of Representatives Elections Law of 2018.

Article 7/Thirdly, of the law stipulates that the candidate must be “of good character and conduct, and not have received a previous pardon for crimes of financial and administrative corruption or misdemeanors that violate honor.”

As for the final aspect of the framework meeting, the source said it "will include a discussion of the possibility of passing the Popular Mobilization Law and its future consequences for the country. This is expected to be discussed in a preliminary manner during tomorrow's meeting, Monday. A special meeting may be held regarding the Popular Mobilization Law to agree on a mechanism for passing it or postponing it to the next session, in a manner consistent with the requirements of the current stage."

In this regard, Ibtisam al-Hilali, a member of the Coordination Framework, revealed to Shafaq News Agency on Sunday that there is a movement within the House of Representatives to collect signatures to hold an upcoming session to vote on the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) law.

However, Member of Parliament Jawad al-Yasari previously confirmed to Shafaq News Agency that there is no directive from the parliament's presidency or a concrete date for resuming scheduled sessions to discuss and vote on a number of important laws, including the Popular Mobilization Forces law  link

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Tishwash:  Al-Rasheed begins disbursing the first semi-annual interest on national bonds.

Rashid Bank announced today, Sunday, the commencement of disbursing the first semi-annual interest to holders of the first national bond issue, affirming its commitment to the timetable previously set by the Central Bank of Iraq and the Ministry of Finance.

The bank explained in a statement that "this step comes within the framework of its efforts to enhance confidence in national bonds as a safe savings and investment tool, in addition to their contribution to diversifying funding sources and supporting the national economy."

The bank urged citizens to "visit the relevant branches to receive their dues," stressing that "national bonds represent an important investment opportunity for citizens, as they offer generous returns with full government guarantees, which contributes to attracting local savings and directing them toward development projects."  link

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Tishwash:  The Association of Banks announces the launch of a guide to accessing finance in Iraq.

The Iraqi Private Banks Association announced today, Sunday, the launch of a guide to accessing finance in Iraq under the auspices of the German Development Cooperation Agency (GIZ) and the Central Bank of Iraq, noting that the launch of this guide is a fundamental step towards building the national economy.

"The launch of the Access to Finance Guide in Iraq is a fundamental step toward empowering entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized enterprise owners, and all those seeking to contribute to building our national economy," said Ali Tariq, CEO of the Iraqi Private Banks Association, in a speech at the launch event of the Access to Finance Guide.

He added, "Access to financing is one of the biggest challenges facing youth and the private sector in Iraq today. Many innovative ideas and promising projects are stalled due to a lack of clear information about funding sources, available mechanisms, and required procedures." He explained that "this guide will serve as a simplified, practical reference, bringing together various financing tools and options that can benefit investors, entrepreneurs, or any startup."

He continued, "This guide would not have seen the light of day without the fruitful cooperation between the GIZ and the Central Bank, in the belief that enhancing financial inclusion and empowering the private sector represent a fundamental gateway to economic reform in Iraq."

He continued: "We are currently experiencing a pivotal phase in the development process, as the state moves to support and develop the private sector to become an effective partner in building the economy and diversifying sources of income." He pointed out that "this guide is not just a document, but rather a practical tool that will help thousands of young men and women and entrepreneurs identify the options available to them, whether through banks, financing companies, or government and international support programs."

He explained that "the Iraqi Private Banks Association affirms its commitment to working side by side with its partners to overcome obstacles, simplify procedures, and develop the business environment, thus opening the door to investment and innovation."

He pointed out that "the launch of this guide today is a message of hope to Iraqi youth that opportunities exist, support is available, and success is possible when there is determination and resolve, along with sound planning and cooperation." He expressed his thanks to "everyone who contributed to the preparation of this guide, and to all the parties that offered their expertise and support to make this initiative a success. I also thank you for inviting us to participate in issuing this guide, which reflects your commitment to supporting the economic reform process in Iraq."

He expressed his hope that "Iraq will witness more initiatives that will positively impact development and prosperity."  link

Mot:  .. school - back he is !!!!  

Mot:  school - first day  

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Sunday Afternoon 8-17-25

Al-Sudani's Advisor Identifies The Reasons For The Decline In The Dollar Exchange Rate.

Money and Business  Economy News – Baghdad  The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, outlined the reasons for the decline in the dollar exchange rate and its impact on the country's economic recovery on Sunday.

Saleh said, "The Iraqi parallel market has witnessed a significant decline in the dollar exchange rate against the dinar in recent months, reflecting shifts in demand and money supply, and raising questions about the extent to which this decline will impact economic activity and the balance of commodity prices."

He added, "Because the parallel (secondary) foreign exchange market is an information-based market, the efficiency of economic policy, with its financial, monetary, and commercial pillars, implemented in accordance with an integrated strategic framework, has contributed to transforming this market from a state of information noise with excessive price deviations, to a stable market that deals with clear and disciplined information (white noise), and in many cases, it has become led by the official market, not the other way around."

He pointed out that "the trend of the dollar's decline in the parallel market towards the official price can be attributed to the efficiency of coordination between government policies, through the following axes: (legally criminalizing the use of the dollar in local transactions, especially in the real estate market, which is one of the sectors with the highest demand for foreign currency, which strengthened the role of the dinar in daily trading, and the shift to an external financing system through international correspondent banks, instead of relying directly on the Central Bank window, a measure that reduced compliance risks and kept large traders away from relying on high-cost and high-risk parallel market financing)."

He added: "Integrating small importers into the official foreign currency financing network has enabled them to obtain dollars at the official exchange rate directly, without the need for intermediaries from currency companies.

This represents approximately 60% of import activity, thanks to administrative facilitations and the reduction of bureaucratic links.

This is in addition to the cultural shift in travelers' behavior towards using electronic payment cards in foreign currency, which has eased pressure on cash dollars, while maintaining the possibility of obtaining a specific cash share from airports on favorable terms and with strict compliance.

In addition, a smart defensive pricing policy has been adopted, represented by the spread of cooperative societies to distribute food commodities, construction goods, and others, with import financing based on the official rate of 1,320 dinars per dollar.

This has contributed to the stability of the commodity market and achieving a reasonable balance between supply and demand."

He pointed out that "the expected economic impacts can be monitored as follows:

First, on the economic movement, which is represented by: (a decrease in import costs and an increase in purchasing power, strengthening confidence in the Iraqi dinar and stimulating local investment, and a revival of domestic commercial activity as a result of lower operating costs, and

second, the economic impacts are directed at the prices of basic commodities, most notably (a decrease in the prices of imported food and medicine, and a reduction in inflation resulting from fluctuations in the exchange rate, as well as improving the purchasing power of citizens, and that the instability of the exchange markets has effects on the state of balance in the prices of basic commodities, and increases their fluctuations in such cases."

Saleh concluded by saying: “Efficiently controlling economic policy with its three pillars: fiscal, monetary, and trade, along with strong law enforcement, remains an important factor in providing a framework for stability, specifically: (maintaining the gradual unification of the official and parallel exchange rates, as well as increasing the supply of dollars through official channels, in addition to tightening controls on speculators and the black market, and stimulating local production to reduce dependence on imports within strong and stable supply policies that provide national producers with greater flexibility in supplying capital goods, raw materials, and production supplies.” https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=58891

Iraq's Oil Exports To The US Decline By More Than 130,000 Barrels Per Day.

Energy   Economy News – Baghdad The U.S. Energy Information Administration announced on Sunday that Iraqi oil exports to the United States fell by more than 130,000 barrels per day last week.

The administration said, "U.S. crude oil imports from nine major countries averaged 5.911 million barrels per day last week, up 322,000 barrels per day from the previous week's average of 5.589 million barrels per day."

She added, "Iraq's oil exports to the United States averaged 142,000 barrels per day, down 137,000 barrels per day from the previous week's average of 279,000 barrels per day."

The administration also indicated that "the largest US oil revenues during the past week came from Canada, at a rate of 4.045 million barrels per day, followed by Mexico, at a rate of 398,000 barrels per day, Brazil, at a rate of 344,000 barrels per day, and Colombia, at a rate of 343,000 barrels per day."

According to the table, "US crude oil imports from Saudi Arabia averaged 273,000 barrels per day, from Nigeria 213,000 barrels per day, from Libya 80,000 barrels per day, from Ecuador 65,000 barrels per day, and no imports from Venezuela."   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=58871

Central Bank: Financing Guide Is A Step Towards Restructuring The Banking Sector And Enhancing Financial Inclusion.

Banks  Economy News – Baghdad   The Central Bank announced on Sunday that the Access to Finance Guide is an important step for financial institutions and the restructuring of the banking sector. It also noted that the National Lending Strategy and the National Financial Inclusion Strategy have facilitated access to finance.

In a speech during the launch of the Access to Finance Guide, the bank's Deputy Governor, Ammar Hamad Khalaf, said, "In cooperation with the German Agency for International Cooperation and the Association of Private Banks, the Access to Finance Guide was launched today to facilitate the financing situation, remove obstacles, and facilitate access to it with the aim of achieving development and increasing supply and demand."

He explained that "the facilities provided represent an important step for financial institutions and the restructuring of the banking sector, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises," indicating that "the multiplicity of entities supporting these projects leads to the dispersion of efforts and a lack of focus on additional projects.

Therefore, the first recommendation of the committee supervising the implementation of the national strategy for the sector is to establish an independent national entity to oversee these projects and work to mobilize financial and technical support for them according to an integrated vision that ensures optimal investment of funding sources."

He added that "a large proportion of small businesses remain part of the informal economy, which prevents them from accessing formal financing," noting that "the Central Bank has launched financing initiatives since 2015 that have helped support thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises, in addition to large projects and housing loans."

He pointed out that "the Iraqi government has recognized the importance of entrepreneurial projects and launched the "Riyada" initiative, from which hundreds of projects have benefited to date, and the Central Bank has become a significant contributor to financing these projects."

He continued, "The recently launched National Lending Strategy and National Financial Inclusion Strategy have facilitated access to financing, given its importance. This guide, whose launch we are celebrating today, complements the measures taken by the renewal strategy and aims to achieve key objectives, including enabling entrepreneurs to identify official sources of financing and enhancing financial literacy to achieve continuous and sustainable growth across various sectors." https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=58888

Al-Sudani: Economic Development Must Proceed Through Optimal Investment Of Funds

Money and Business  Economy News – Baghdad   Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani stressed on Sunday that economic development must proceed through optimal investment of funds in locations with the highest returns.

A statement from his media office, received by Al-Eqtisad News, stated that "Al-Sudani chaired a meeting devoted to discussing ways to maximize non-oil revenues and support and enhance the state's financial resources. The meeting was attended by the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Trade, the Mayor of Baghdad, the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, and a number of advisors and general managers."

He pointed out that "the meeting discussed the use of modern technologies, digital mechanisms, and automation to maximize revenues and promote projects with higher returns."

The Prime Minister emphasized that "economic development must proceed through optimal investment of funds in locations with the highest returns, and by developing plans to rationalize spending and reduce waste."

He explained that "the meeting discussed the Ministry of Trade's revenues and maximizing them, enhancing the quality of ration card items, the best economic ways to manage wheat purchasing and storage operations, the absorptive capacity for the coming seasons and spending in this regard, as well as discussing the organization of Baghdad Municipality's revenues, the optimal path for managing real estate resources, institutions and their projects and collection methods, in addition to presenting the implementation of collection in the electricity sector and the objective plans in this regard." https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=58890

The Withdrawal Of US Forces Raises Questions About Stability In Iraq.

Political |- 08/17/2025  Mawazine News - Baghdad -  In a move described as having intertwined political and security dimensions, US forces have begun reducing their military presence in some Iraqi bases. The timing raises widespread questions about its repercussions for the country's stability, especially with the escalation of threats emanating from the north.

Officials in Baghdad confirmed that the withdrawal is taking place in accordance with joint understandings with Washington and comes in response to repeated demands to end the foreign presence. However, analysts believe that the move carries deeper implications, as it may reflect a strategic repositioning rather than a final withdrawal.

The timing is sensitive, as the country faces complex security challenges in the north, where ISIS remnants are operating in some rugged areas, in parallel with Turkish military operations against the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), as well as armed movements on the Syrian-Iraqi border.

This situation, according to observers, may present Iraq with a difficult test. While the public and political forces welcome the withdrawal as a reinforcement of national sovereignty, concerns are growing about the possibility of a security and intelligence vacuum that could be exploited by extremist groups or regional parties.

Others, however, believe the withdrawal could become an opportunity to strengthen the state's capabilities if it is accompanied by clear plans to fill the vacuum, activate cooperation between federal forces and the Peshmerga, and support intelligence and border control agencies.

Between concern and optimism, the most important question remains: Will Iraq be able to transform the US withdrawal into a platform for strengthening stability and sovereignty, or will the timing leave a vacuum that further destabilizes the security landscape? https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=265233

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Sunday Afternoon 8-17-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

BRICS Shakeup: India Rejects Full US Dollar Exit, Expands Rupee Trade

India’s Official Position: No Wholesale De-Dollarization

India has formally rejected speculation of abandoning the U.S. dollar, even as BRICS explores alternative settlement mechanisms.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified:

“We have made our position very clear on this issue earlier as well. De-dollarization is not part of India’s financial agenda.”

His remarks followed Brazilian President Lula’s renewed call for a BRICS trade currency amid U.S. tariff tensions.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reinforced India’s balanced stance:

“India is a member of the BRICS group, and we continue to remain in touch with member countries to discuss issues of shared interest.”

Bilateral Rupee Trade Expansion

Instead of a wholesale de-dollarization policy, New Delhi is pursuing targeted bilateral trade agreements to reduce dollar dependency.

Key developments include:

• Maldives: Direct rupee-rufiyaa settlement system established in November 2024.

• UAE: Operational arrangements underway for rupee settlements.

• Ongoing talks: With additional Asian and African nations to expand rupee settlement corridors.

RBI Deputy Governor Sanjay Malhotra confirmed that such agreements reduce both transaction costs and foreign exchange exposure for Indian businesses.

Strategic Positioning Within BRICS

India’s approach diverges from China and Russia, who are pushing alternatives like the digital yuan and ruble under sanctions.

Instead, India is:

• Avoiding a common BRICS currency, citing economic and geographic disparities.

• Maintaining global dollar access while selectively reducing dependency through bilateral deals.

• Retaining financial flexibility, ensuring that rupee trade expansion complements rather than replaces the dollar.

Pragmatic Currency Policy

India’s strategy shows a practical middle path in BRICS:

• No abrupt U.S. dollar exit.

• Focus on rupee internationalization via bilateral agreements.

• Balanced participation in BRICS without risking global market access.

This calculated stance places India as a unique player within BRICS—reducing dollar reliance where possible but preserving financial stability and international credibility.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Watcher.Guru

~~~~~~~~~

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Sunday Morning 8-17-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Ripple vs. SEC Lawsuit Nears Official Closure: Only One Step Remains

Case Closure Update

The long-running Ripple vs. SEC lawsuit, which began in December 2020, is effectively over. This week, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed a status report with the Court of Appeals confirming that both Ripple and the SEC have jointly agreed to dismiss their appeals.

Contrary to speculation from some XRP supporters, no judge’s approval is needed. Former SEC lawyer Marc Fagel clarified that the only action remaining is an administrative closing by the court clerk, which finalizes the case.

“The only thing remaining is administrative closing of the case by the clerk. No judge approval is required. It’s essentially over already.” — Marc Fagel, Former SEC Attorney

Ripple Celebrates, XRP Price Reacts

Ripple confirmed the lawsuit’s end on its official channels, with senior executives and SEC Commissioners acknowledging the closure. The announcement quickly spread across the industry and generated millions of impressions online.

Market reaction was immediate:

• XRP’s price jumped as traders welcomed the resolution of long-standing legal uncertainty.

• Broader crypto markets also saw a positive response, with assets like Ethereum recording gains.

Analysts note that continued buying pressure could push XRP to new highs in the near term.

Implications for Ripple and the Crypto Industry

The lawsuit had cast doubt on XRP’s regulatory status, creating barriers for Ripple’s partnerships and adoption in the U.S. With the case concluded, Ripple is now in a stronger position to:

• Pursue new business deals with financial institutions.

• Expand adoption of its cross-border payment products.

• Reveal major product announcements that the company has hinted at for 2025.

This closure removes one of the largest overhangs in the U.S. crypto sector and sets a precedent for future regulatory clarity.

Conclusion

The Ripple vs. SEC lawsuit is, for all practical purposes, officially over. The final step is a routine court clerk action to close the appeal.

For Ripple, XRP holders, and the wider crypto ecosystem, this marks the end of a four-year legal battle and the start of a new growth phase.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Coinpedia

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US Treasury Weighs Digital ID in DeFi to Combat Illicit Finance

Treasury Eyes Compliance Tech Under GENIUS Act

The U.S. Department of the Treasury is exploring whether digital identity verification tools could be embedded directly into decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols as part of its mandate under the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act, signed into law in July 2025.

The Treasury’s consultation seeks public feedback on how digital identity, AI, APIs, and blockchain monitoring could be leveraged to counter illicit finance in crypto markets. One proposal involves integrating digital identity credentials into smart contracts, allowing transactions to automatically verify a user’s identity before execution.

This would effectively hard-code Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) safeguards into blockchain infrastructure.

Potential Benefits of Digital ID Integration

According to Treasury, embedding digital identity checks could:

• Reduce compliance costs for institutions and DeFi platforms.

• Strengthen privacy protections through secure credential systems.

• Improve detection of money laundering, terrorist financing, and sanctions evasion before transactions occur.

Treasury also acknowledged risks, including data privacy concerns and the challenge of balancing innovation with regulatory oversight. Public comments are open until October 17, 2025, after which the Treasury will report to Congress and may propose new guidance or rules.

Banking Sector Raises Concerns Over Stablecoin Yields

In parallel, major U.S. banks, led by the Bank Policy Institute (BPI), have urged Congress to tighten GENIUS Act rules. They warn of a loophole allowing stablecoin issuers to bypass restrictions on paying interest by partnering with exchanges or affiliates.

According to BPI, unchecked growth of yield-bearing stablecoins could divert up to $6.6 trillion in deposits away from traditional banks, potentially threatening business credit access.

Conclusion

The Treasury’s consultation highlights a turning point in U.S. crypto regulation—where compliance could shift from institutional reporting to protocol-level enforcement.

The debate now centers on whether embedding digital identity into DeFi strikes the right balance between innovation, privacy, and financial stability.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Cointelegraph

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Over 6,500 Pharmacies Gain Access to XRP Payment Solution via Wellgistics Health

Wellgistics Launches XRP-Powered Payment Program

Wellgistics Health, a leader in pharmaceutical distribution and AI-driven prescription services, has launched its XRP Implementation Program, bringing blockchain-based payments to more than 6,500 independent pharmacies and 200 manufacturers across the U.S.

The initiative leverages the XRP Ledger (XRPL) to enable:

• Instant, low-cost payments for pharmaceutical products.

• Bypassing of traditional banking and credit card networks.

• Encrypted, traceable, and HIPAA-compliant transactions.

The rollout, announced on August 13, is integrated with RxERP, an eCommerce and ERP system that provides real-time transaction management, onboarding, and reporting tailored for healthcare.

Real-World Utility for XRP

Pro-XRP attorney Bill Morgan praised the launch as “real utility and use for XRP and the XRPL.” He emphasized that onboarding is already underway, demonstrating immediate adoption rather than a future concept.

Wellgistics highlighted key benefits for pharmacies, including:

• Instant settlement, available 24/7.

• Faster access to working capital, improving inventory restocking and cash flow.

• Direct transactions between pharmacies and distributors with real-time confirmation.

Expansion Plans: Manufacturers and Direct-to-Patient Programs

Following the pharmacy rollout, Wellgistics plans to extend XRPL integration to pharmaceutical manufacturers, enabling direct, on-chain transactions.

A second phase will introduce Direct-to-Patient programs, allowing manufacturers to ship medications directly to patients’ homes in coordination with pharmacies and prescribing physicians.

According to COO Tony Madsen, the broader vision is to make all aspects of pharmacy payments faster, transparent, and frictionless.

Boost for XRP Adoption in Healthcare

The initiative marks a major milestone for XRP adoption in the U.S. healthcare sector, showcasing blockchain’s potential for large-scale, real-world use cases.

In addition to payment processing, Wellgistics announced plans in May to hold XRP as a treasury asset. To support the rollout, the company also secured a $50 million equity line of credit.

This move underscores XRP’s growing role in bridging finance and healthcare, pushing blockchain utility beyond crypto markets.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: The Crypto Basic   

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“Tidbits From TNT” Sunday Morning 8-17-2025

TNT:

Tishwash: Rafidain: Our agreement with K2 Integrity puts Iraq on the map of the global financial system.

Rafidain Bank's General Manager, Ali Karim Al-Fatlawi, emphasized that signing the partnership agreement with K2 Integrity represents a qualitative shift in the bank's journey and the Iraqi financial sector. He noted that this strategic step transforms Rafidain Bank from a traditional local institution to an integrated banking platform directly aligned with international standards.

Al-Fatlawi explained, in an interview with the Iraqi News Agency (INA), that the partnership comes with direct support from Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, and in accordance with Cabinet Resolution No. (23274) of 2023, within the framework of a comprehensive reform vision aimed at restructuring the banking sector, strengthening Iraq's economic and financial sovereignty, and repositioning the country on the map of the international financial system with confidence and transparency.

Al-Fatlawi told (INA): "The partnership agreement with K2 Integrity represents a qualitative shift for Rafidain Bank, which is no longer just a traditional local bank, but has become an institution working to connect Iraq to international banking standards."

He added, "K2 Integrity is a global leader in compliance and anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing, and our collaboration sends a clear message that Iraq is serious about reforming its financial institutions and preparing them to open up to the global financial system."

 Prime Minister's support He continued, "This partnership would not have seen the light of day without the great support of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, who adopted a serious reform vision to restructure the banking sector. The contract with K2 Integrity came in accordance with Cabinet Resolution No. (23274) of 2023, which reflects that this project is not just an individual initiative of the bank, but rather part of a higher government policy aimed at enhancing transparency and financial sovereignty in Iraq."

 Direct gains for citizens

Al-Fatlawi told (INA): "On the local level, this agreement raises the level of compliance and transparency within the bank, and establishes a modern corporate culture based on governance and risk management. As for the citizen, it means more secure banking services, greater protection for their money, and enhanced confidence in an institution that has long been a fundamental pillar of the national economy. Simply put, the citizen will feel that their money is in safe hands subject to global regulatory standards."

 Reintegrating Iraq into the international financial system

Regarding the agreement's implications for Iraq's financial reputation, he explained, "Iraq needs to rebuild trust with international institutions, and this agreement is key to that. Through K2 Integrity's services, we will be able to issue reports according to the highest international standards, which will put us back on the map of the international financial system and give us the ability to open up to global correspondent banks and attract foreign investment. Simply put, we are establishing a new phase in which Iraq is viewed as a country serious about reform, not as a fragile or isolated economy."

Fortifying the economy

Al-Fatlawi emphasized that "the banking sector is the first line of defense for any country's sovereignty. Through this partnership, we are not only improving our services, but also protecting our economy from the risks associated with financial isolation or unjustified accusations, and building institutional capacity that grants us greater independence.

This step truly translates the vision of the Prime Minister and the Iraqi government for Rafidain Bank to be part of a broader national project to enhance economic sovereignty."

Regarding Rafidain Bank's future vision after this partnership, Al-Fatlawi told the Iraqi News Agency (INA): "This agreement reflects our ambition to transform into a modern, integrated banking institution, capable of keeping pace with technological and regulatory developments in the world.

 We are establishing a brighter and more stable banking future, where citizens trust our ability to manage their money, and international institutions trust our ability to comply with global standards. Simply put, we are laying the foundation for an Iraqi bank with a global identity."  link

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Tishwash:  The Baghdad International Energy Forum: A platform to strengthen Iraq's position in global energy markets

The Baghdad International Energy Forum will kick off in the capital, Baghdad, on September 6 and 7, 2025. Organized by the Ghadan Risk Management Foundation, the forum will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, with the broad participation of senior executives from global energy companies, energy ministers, the OPEC President, and international experts.

The event reflects the international community's confidence in Iraq's capabilities and its pivotal role in this vital sector.
The forum aims to highlight Iraq's significant potential in the oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors, as a key partner in meeting global market needs and a supporter of international efforts to achieve sustainability.

The forum will be attended by energy ministers from the region and around the world, as well as global energy companies including TotalEnergies, Oman's OQ, BP, Chevron, Eni, and Shell. Its sessions will address energy security, market stability, and the transition to clean energy sources.

The forum is organized under the auspices of the State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO) and in partnership with the Iraqi Ministry of Oil. It serves as an international platform for dialogue and exchange of views on the future of energy in Iraq and the region, and for exploring promising investment opportunities in this strategic sector. link

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Tishwash:  Iraq faces US banking guardianship... two crucial weeks for private banks

 Al-Mustaqilla/- Less than two weeks remain for private banks in Iraq to comply with the financial reform roadmap developed by the American firm Oliver Wyman, a move described by economic circles as the "last chance" to save the banking system from the specter of liquidation and bankruptcy.

According to informed banking sources, the Central Bank of Iraq has two options:

Forcing banks to increase their capital and merge those unable to expand their financial portfolios.

Liquidating violating banks, which opens the door wide to direct intervention by the US Federal Reserve to implement international standards in the Iraqi banking sector.

The risk of liquidation and “financial guardianship”

The second scenario is viewed with great concern within Baghdad, as it effectively imposes a form of American tutelage over the Iraqi banking sector, a precedent that could threaten Baghdad's financial independence and undermine public confidence in the banking system as a whole.

Experts believe that the US Federal Reserve's involvement could completely redraw the banking landscape in Iraq, from foreign exchange mechanisms to banks' ability to finance local projects.

Reform roadmap or political pressure?

Oliver Wyman's reform roadmap came in response to mounting US pressure, following increasing reports of financial transaction irregularities and accusations that some banks were involved in money laundering or illicit financing.

At the same time, the Iraqi government is seeking to strike a balance between meeting international demands and maintaining economic sovereignty, particularly since any direct foreign intervention would place Iraq in a position of weakness vis-à-vis its international partners.

The countdown has begun

The coming weeks will be crucial. Either the Central Bank of Iraq succeeds in imposing radical reforms that preserve the independence of financial decision-making, or it will find itself forced to accept American intervention, which could be read internally as a "declaration of failure" for the local banking system.  link

Mot: ... and Yet Another ""Mot Wisdom Tip"" frum da INternet!!!! 

Mot:  Did Ya Ever Notice ---

IRS Reportedly Confirms $1,390 Stimulus Checks For Eligible Americans

IRS Reportedly Confirms $1,390 Stimulus Checks For Eligible Americans, Rumors of $2,000 August Payout Debunked — Plans Late Summer Rollout (UPDATED)

Vishaal Sanjay  ri, August 15, 2025 

Benzinga and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to include a comment from an IRS spokesperson.

Millions of Americans may be eligible for a $1,390 stimulus check by the U.S. Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service, as part of a plan aiming to provide financial relief to low and middle-income households.

Officials Dispel $2,000 Rumors, Confirm $1,390 Stimulus

While rumors continued to swirl around a potential $2,000 check in August, the IRS has denied that it has any such payment planned, but has confirmed the legitimacy of $1,390 payout, which it says is on track for low and middle-income Americans, according to a report by India’s The Economic Times newspaper.

The eligibility criteria for a $1,390 check follow the same income thresholds as past stimulus programs, such as up to $75,000 in income for individual taxpayers, $150,000 for married couples and $112,500 for heads of households.

Trending: The same firms that backed Uber, Venmo and eBay are investing in this pre-IPO company disrupting a $1.8T market — and you can too at just $2.90/share.

The payment, as always, is tax-free and will not impact benefits from other programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, Social Security, Veterans Affairs, or Railroad Retirement.

This is aimed at helping Americans cover rent, food and medical costs, at a time when living expenses remain elevated for millions.

An IRS spokesperson pointed out to Benzinga that Taxpayers had until April 15, 2025, to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. They said there was "nothing else since then."

The Treasury didn’t immediately respond to Benzinga’s requests for a comment on this matter. This story will be updated as soon as we receive a response.

Trump’s DOGE Dividends And Tariff Rebate Plans

Early this year, President Donald Trump proposed a “DOGE Dividend” tax refund plan, as part of which 20% of the savings achieved by his administration’s Department of Government Efficiency will be returned to American citizens.

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