Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Thursday Evening 8-21-25

Gold Declines Slightly After The Release Of The Minutes Of The US Federal Reserve Meeting

Thursday, August 21, 2025, | Economic Number of readings: 137  Baghdad/ NINA / Gold prices fell slightly after the minutes of the Federal Reserve's July meeting showed agreement to keep interest rates steady.  Gold fell at the beginning of spot transactions by 0.2 percent to $3,340.09 per ounce, while US gold futures for December delivery fell by 0.2 percent to $3,382.30.

Silver also lost 0.2 percent during spot transactions to $37.83 per ounce, platinum by 1 percent to $1,326.93, and palladium by 0.8 percent to $1,105.12. /End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1247522

Al-Sudani: The Presence Of Major Oil Companies In Iraq Reflects The Government's Interest In The Energy Sector.

Energy   Economy News – Baghdad  Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani received Shannon Slocum, CEO of Halliburton, an American oil and energy company, and his accompanying delegation on Thursday.

Al-Sudani stressed that the presence of major oil companies in Iraq reflects the government's interest in the energy sector in Iraq and its efforts to develop it according to modern international standards and through the best energy companies.

He emphasized the government's vision for developing the oil and gas sectors and its keenness to ensure that development takes place with the highest possible capabilities provided by advanced technology, and Iraq's continued expansion of its use of associated gas and the production of petroleum derivatives, according to a statement from his media office received by the "Wadeh" platform.

Al-Sudani pointed out the importance of expanding the scope of work with Halliburton, given its expertise and capabilities in the fields of extraction and refining, and its possession of modern global technologies. He affirmed his support for the company's work in developing the Nahr Bin Omar and Sindbad fields in Basra Governorate.

For his part, Slocom affirmed Halliburton's interest in operating in Iraq, given the country's progress across all sectors, its stability, and its openness to major international industrial companies. He explained that the company is committed to providing the latest technological developments in oil and gas fields, after finalizing the contract model.

He also stated that the company will employ modern administrative and technical methods in its work, and is committed to developing the skills of the Iraqi cadres working with it.  https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=59069

Oil Prices Maintain Gains

Time: 2025/08/21 07:25:18 Read: 480 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} Oil prices maintained their gains after U.S. crude inventories recorded their largest decline since mid-June, remaining well below the seasonal average.

Brent crude traded around $67 a barrel after rising 1.6% on Wednesday, while West Texas Intermediate crude held steady around $63.

Data from the Energy Information Administration showed that US crude inventories fell by 6 million barrels last week. Gasoline inventories also fell for the fifth consecutive week.

Trump's Policies Pressure the Market

Despite the recent rally, oil prices remain down more than 10% since the beginning of the year due to concerns about the repercussions of US trade policies, while the OPEC+ alliance ended its voluntary cuts. These factors have increased expectations of a market glut once peak summer demand subsides. Traders are also monitoring developments in efforts to reach a ceasefire in the war in Ukraine.  LINK

The Iraq Stock Exchange Exceeds 70 Billion Dinars In Trading Value In One Week.

Stock Exchange   Economy News – Baghdad  The Iraq Stock Exchange announced on Thursday that it had traded shares worth more than 70 billion dinars during five trading sessions this week, which is drawing to a close.

According to trading indicators, the number of shares traded this week exceeded 68 billion, with a value exceeding 70 billion dinars.

The ISX60 market index closed the first session of the week at (941.21) points, while the index closed at the end of the week at (927.67) points, achieving an increase of (1.59%) over its closing at the beginning of the session.

The ISX15 index closed the first session of the week at 1113.66 points, while the index closed at the end of the week at 1119.00 points, achieving an increase of 0.53% over its closing at the beginning of the session.

During the week, (4712) buy and sell contracts were executed on shares of companies listed on the market.    https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=59070

Under The Patronage Of The Prime Minister, The Securities And Commodities Authority Announces Tangible Achievements In Four Areas.
 
Yesterday, 14:58  Baghdad – INA  The Securities Commission announced on Wednesday
  tangible achievements in four areas, noting that  these accomplishments constitute a fundamental pillar of a comprehensive strategy aimed at making the Iraqi market   a vital contributor to the national economy and  an attraction for local and foreign investment.
 

The Chairman of the Commission, Faisal Al-Haimus, said in a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA):
 
“The Commission has achieved qualitative achievements in developing the capital market under the auspices of the government of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani,” noting that
 
“a qualitative leap and tangible achievements have been achieved in the Iraq Stock Exchange during the years (2024-2025), within the framework of the directives and continuous support of the government of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani,  which reflects the government’s firm commitment to  stimulating the investment environment and   consolidating the foundations of financial stability in the country.” 

He explained that  "these achievements, which encompass     legislative,     technical, and     regulatory aspects,aim to  develop the financial market's infrastructure,  enhance transparency,  protect investor rights, and   achieve alignment with international standards."

He pointed out that "the most prominent milestones that have been achieved are:
 
First: On the legislative and regulatory level:
 
The draft Securities Law was approved, its preparation was completed, and it received Cabinet approval. It is now before the House of Representatives for the second reading.
 
- Approval of the internal regulations of the Iraq Stock Exchange and the organizational structure, as well as the internal regulations of the Iraqi Depository Center.
 
- Activating new regulations that include margin trading, licensing brokerage firms, and exchanging listed shares for new listed shares.
 
- Regulating the return of shares of listed companies after general assembly meetings and xat fair indicative prices.
 
- Activating the unified chest health system to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of operations.
 
Second: On the level of developing infrastructure and technology:
 
Digital transformation and enhanced transparency by
     modernizing trading mechanisms in cooperation with specialized companies.
 
- Supervising the emergency storage project (HOT/DR Backup), which is
     currently in the final preparation phase to ensure the continuity of the market’s operations.
 
- Developing electronic disclosure systems.
     Renewing the license for the trading system (Xstrem) to immediately disclose the
          financial status of companies and       interest rates directly on the trading platform.
 
- Establishing an electronic archiving system and     activating and fully operating its stations.
 
- Establishing an electronic information station for the Authority to serve the public and investors.
     Available on the website.

Third: On the level of developing trading mechanisms and diversifying services:
 
Launching a new trading platform to allow small shareholders of companies that do not disclose their financial data to trade.
 
- Launching a platform for trading over-the-counter (OTC) stocks,  where (19) companies have been listed so far.
 
- Launching a new price index (ISX15), which is the first index in the market that relies on the market value of free float shares  to calculate the weights of the companies that comprise it.
 
     Launching electronic trading platforms via smart devices in cooperation with brokerage firms
     to facilitate access to the market.
 
Fourth: At the level of international cooperation and capacity building:
 
Signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, under the patronage of the Prime Minister,  with the aim of strengthening relations between the two countries' financial markets and creating joint investment and trade opportunities.
 
Signing a memorandum of understanding with the Egyptian Financial Regulatory Authority to
  exchange expertise and information and   raise levels of transparency and efficiency in accordance with best practices.
 
- An agreement with the British Institute for Securities and Investment to develop the performance of the sector’s workforce.
 
- Agreement with the Egyptian company (ESG) to  develop infrastructure and   enhance online trading. 

He stressed that  "these achievements constitute a fundamental pillar of a comprehensive strategy aimed at making the Iraqi Stock Exchange     a vital contributor to the national economy and     an attraction for both local and foreign investment."    
  
https://ina.iq/ar/economie/241388-.html  

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

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Thursday Afternoon 8-21-25

Central Bank Governor: We Are Witnessing Highly Fluid External Transfers Of All Major Currencies.
 
Wednesday, August 20, 2025 10:59 | Economic   Number of readings: 223  Baghdad / NINA / The Governor of the Central Bank, Ali Al-Alaq, confirmed today, Wednesday, that almost all major currencies are covered, while noting that the Central Bank is witnessing smooth and highly fluid foreign exchange operations in all currencies.
 

Al-Alaq said, according to the official agency:
 
"The foreign transfer process has witnessed significant development over the past two years,
both in terms of method,     approach, and     organization, as well as through  direct communication and
 direct transfer between Iraqi banks and approved correspondent banks." 

 He added,  "This expansion is not only in the  number of correspondent or transfer banks, but also in the  number of currencies," noting that
 
"the Central Bank covers almost all the currencies used by Iraq for large-scale trade."  He stressed that 
"the Central Bank is currently witnessing transfer operations in almost all major currencies, and they are taking place smoothly and with high fluidity."  /End 9  
  
https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1247321 

Central Bank: Decline In The Issued Currency And Inflation In The Second Half Of 2025

Banks   Economy News – Baghdad   The Central Bank of Iraq revealed on Thursday a decline in the country's currency exports and inflation for the second half of 2025.

The bank stated in a report that "the currency issued by the bank recorded a 3.8% decline in the average rate in the second half of 2025, reaching 98.4 trillion dinars, compared to its value of 102.3 trillion dinars in the second quarter of 2024."

He added, "The decline in the issued currency has contributed to a decline in the inflation rate, which maintains the stability of the general price level."

The bank's report also indicated that "the inflation rate decreased by 76% in the second half of 2025, reaching 0.8%, compared to the second quarter of 2024, which reached 3.3%."

He stressed that "the decline in the inflation rate indicates a decline in the general price level and leads to an improvement in the purchasing power of individuals and institutions."

Issued currency is defined as: the currency issued by the Central Bank of Iraq into circulation (i.e., printed), excluding the currency in the vaults of the Central Bank.https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=59061

The Central Bank Sponsors The Private Banks Conference And Exhibition For Small And Medium Enterprises.
 
August 20, 2025   The Central Bank sponsors the   Private Banks Conference and Exhibition for Small and Medium Enterprises.

The Central Bank of Iraq sponsored the conference on micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) held in Erbil Governorate.
 
The conference was held in cooperation with the  German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the  Iraqi Private Banks Association.
 
On the sidelines of his participation in the conference, Kazem Namiq,
Director General of the Central Bank of Iraq in Erbil Governorate, emphasized
 
"the role of the Central Bank of Iraq in the country's economic development   through its various initiatives and  facilitating procedures  for accessing financing for small, medium, and micro enterprises."
 
It is noteworthy that the conference witnessed the participation of    a number of private banks and
 owners of small, medium and micro enterprises benefiting from project loans.     
 Central Bank of Iraq    Media Office    20 Aug 2025     https://cbi.iq/news/view/2962 

The Dollar Leaves The Thirties. The Exchange Rate In Baghdad Rises Again.

Economy | 08/21/2025   Mawazine News - Baghdad -  The dollar exchange rate witnessed a rise in local markets in Baghdad on Thursday.

The selling price in Baghdad reached 143,750 Iraqi dinars for every 100 US dollars, while the buying price reached 143,000 Iraqi dinars.   https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=265469

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Thursday Afternoon 8-21-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

BRICS News:  China Considers Yuan-Backed Stablecoins to Expand Global Reach

China is preparing for a major shift in its digital asset policy, with plans to introduce yuan-backed stablecoins aimed at boosting the yuan’s role in global trade and payments.

Key points:

• China may approve a yuan-backed stablecoin plan this month, led by Hong Kong and Shanghai.

• This would be a reversal from China’s 2021 ban on cryptocurrency trading and mining.

• Experts say Hong Kong dollar stablecoins could connect the digital yuan (e-CNY) with global assets.

• The initiative comes as U.S. dollar stablecoins dominate, accounting for more than 99% of the global supply.

China’s stablecoin push:

• The State Council is expected to review a plan that would expand the yuan’s global use, signaling a direct challenge to U.S. dominance in the stablecoin sector.

• The move aligns with China’s long-standing ambition to have the yuan rival the dollar and euro. However, experts warn that capital controls and trade surpluses could limit the effectiveness of yuan-backed stablecoins.

• Chinese tech giants JD.com and Ant Group have previously lobbied the central bank for approval of such tokens.

U.S. sets the benchmark:

• Dollar-backed stablecoins dominate the market, supported by the GENIUS Act, signed into law by President Trump.

• The GENIUS Act provides a comprehensive regulatory framework for stablecoins, further entrenching the dollar’s role in global digital finance.

Hong Kong and Shanghai take the lead:

• Shanghai is building an international hub for the digital yuan, while Hong Kong’s new stablecoin law, effective August 1, positions the city as a regulatory pioneer.

• Morgan Stanley notes that Hong Kong dollar stablecoins could act as a bridge, enabling investors to convert USDT/USDC into e-CNY for cross-border investments, while still respecting China’s capital restrictions.

• However, Hong Kong regulators have cautioned that new rules have increased fraud risks, with some firms experiencing volatile market reactions after the law took effect.

Looking ahead:

• China may use the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit to discuss expanding the yuan and stablecoin use in cross-border trade.

• Other Asian markets, including South Korea and Japan, are also developing their own stablecoin frameworks.

• If successful, China’s yuan-backed stablecoins could mark a decisive step toward challenging the dominance of U.S. dollar-linked digital assets.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Coinpedia

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How Close are Banks to Another 2008?

How Close are Banks to Another 2008?

David Lin:   8-21-2025

The landscape of the U.S. banking sector is constantly shifting, a dynamic interplay of economic forces, technological innovation, and, most crucially, regulatory policy.

As we look towards 2025, a fascinating discussion with Christopher Wolf, Managing Director of Banks at North America for Fitch Ratings, on David Lin’s platform, offers invaluable insights into what banks can expect.

Wolf’s analysis paints a picture of a sector poised for significant changes, driven largely by a “deregulatory pendulum swing” and the growing influence of digital assets.

One of the most defining aspects of the current environment, according to Wolf, is the distinct shift in regulatory philosophy. Following the Biden administration’s approach, a potential “Trump 2.0” influence suggests a significant move towards deregulation.

The primary aim? To lower compliance costs for banks and foster innovation, particularly in nascent sectors like cryptocurrency.

While this loosening of the reins could undoubtedly spur growth and efficiency, Wolf wisely cautions against the potential downsides.

 Historically, robust capital requirements have served as vital buffers, helping banks weather economic storms. Easing these requirements, while potentially encouraging, also reintroduces a degree of risk.

Despite these strategic risks, Wolf maintains a “cautious optimism” regarding the banking sector’s overall health, pointing to stable ratings and positive outlooks for many institutions.

Perhaps no area exemplifies the balance between opportunity and risk more than cryptocurrency. Wolf highlights the increasing prominence of stablecoins, seeing them as both a significant opportunity for banks and a strategic threat.

 The concern? If stablecoins gain widespread adoption as a substitute for traditional bank deposits, it could fundamentally alter the banking model.

Banks are not ignoring this shift. They are cautiously exploring crypto integration, primarily through custody services and tokenization initiatives.

However, Wolf emphasizes the critical need to avoid overconcentration in crypto exposure, mitigating the inherent volatility risks associated with digital assets. It’s a pragmatic approach: engage, but with prudence.

Looking ahead, uncertainty looms over the Basel III endgame and future capital requirements. However, expectations lean towards capital-neutral proposals rather than significant tightening, suggesting regulators may opt for stability over drastic changes.

Wolf also points to private credit and stablecoins as key factors that will influence future bank ratings, underscoring their growing importance. He reiterates the fundamental role of banks as creators of credit and money within the fractional reserve system, while acknowledging the implications of alternative financial technologies like cryptocurrencies.

The core function of banking remains, even as its tools and environment evolve.

In conclusion, Christopher Wolf’s insights underscore the critical need for a balanced regulatory approach. The goal is to avoid overly constraining banks, which stifles innovation and growth, while simultaneously preventing them from becoming undercapitalized, a mistake that contributed to the pre-2008 financial crisis.

While the current deregulatory trend presents strategic risks, Wolf assures us that there is no evidence pointing to a resurgence of systemic threats akin to the 2008 financial crisis. The U.S. banking sector is navigating a complex period of change, but with cautious optimism and a watchful eye on both opportunities and potential pitfalls.

https://youtu.be/19WjPgRmu-Y

“Tidbits From TNT” Thursday 8-21-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Iraq plans to attract $250 billion in investments over two years.

Iraq plans to attract investments in various sectors worth up to $250 billion over the next two years.

Hanan Jassim, a spokeswoman for the Iraqi National Investment Commission, said, "The government's pro-investment initiatives and legislative and regulatory reforms have succeeded in attracting Arab and foreign investments exceeding $100 billion in various economic sectors over the past two years."

She added, "Investments have been directed towards vital sectors such as industry, infrastructure, housing, energy, education, and health, contributing to the creation of new job opportunities and increasing the gross domestic product. This represents an important step towards reducing dependence on oil as the primary source of revenue."

She explained that "the investment steps have boosted investor confidence and contributed to positioning Iraq among the region's promising destinations. An ambitious plan has been developed to attract up to $250 billion over the next two years."

She stated that "the National Investment Commission is working to align investment legislation with directives by simplifying procedures, reducing red tape, expanding the scope of public-private partnerships, and providing flexible incentives and solid legal guarantees."

Iraq is currently witnessing the implementation of giant projects, most notably the construction of the Grand Faw Port in the far south of Iraq, accompanied by the implementation of an ambitious plan worth billions of dollars to establish a route linking the far south of the country with Turkey via a land and railway route for trade exchange reaching Europe, in addition to other projects in the sectors of housing, roads, bridges, hospital construction, and vital projects in the field of infrastructure.  link

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Tishwash:  The government is responsible for improving the classification of Iraq's sovereignty

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, on Wednesday (August 20, 2025), in the form of a joint national brigade, to improve the classification Iraq's sovereign trust, which plays a role in enhancing international confidence in the national economy, and opening up vast horizons for foreign investment

The Cabinet said in a statement that it “agrees with the objectives of the Ramiya government to enhance Iraq's financial and economic position on the international stage, the Sudanese side in the form of a national delegation Jointly, towards the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, and two branches of the Ministries (Finance, Oil, Planning) and Economic and Financial Institutions, to the President's Office

The ministry presented the financial documents, which resembled the Iraqi currency,” he added It combines clear and measurable goals, with raising distance plans to specialist areas, and direct coordination with major global trust classification agencies, including Fitch, S&P, Moody’s) Aims to improve Iraq’s sovereign credit rating, as the Seoul team pays special attention to strengthening government efforts, financial risk management, and environmental development Our actions are in line with the government's economic reform plan,” the statement said

The comprehensive national strategy aims to improve the classification of Iraq's sovereignty, which will contribute to enhancing international confidence in the national economy, and opening up vast opportunities Foreign investment, direct and indirect,” the government said in a statement, adding that this letter represents a clear commitment to the reform policy and its protection Achieving economic stability, supporting the stability of the financial system, and creating an attractive investment environment to participate in diversifying revenue sources and reducing reliance on oil Wahid” ink

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Tishwash:  Baghdad and Erbil on the verge of a historic agreement: Oil, salaries, and non-oil revenues are close to being resolved.

Ministry of Planning spokesperson Abdul Zahra al-Hindawi revealed details of the meeting of the ministerial committee tasked with resolving financial obligations between Baghdad and Erbil, stressing that the meeting witnessed a significant convergence of views and a preliminary agreement on mechanisms for resolving outstanding issues.

The meeting, chaired by Minister of Planning Mohammed Tamim and attended by federal ministers and officials from the regional government, focused on three key issues: oil production and exports through SOMO, non-oil revenues, and the localization of salaries for the region's employees. Al-Hindawi explained that the oil file has made significant progress and is close to completion, while the two parties agreed that non-oil revenues should be subject to applicable laws, in addition to discussing practical steps to localize salaries.

He noted that upcoming meetings will witness the participation of legal and technical experts from both sides to finalize the agreement before submitting recommendations to the Council of Ministers for binding decisions. He emphasized Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani's direct interest in concluding these issues, given their direct impact on the lives of citizens in the region and the national economy.  link

Mot: Becoming More ""Seasoned"" ....

Mot : Opal and the spider

Here’s the Truth About the $600 Tariff Checks

Here’s the Truth About the $600 Tariff Checks, According to One Money Expert

Vance Cariaga  Thu, August 21,   GOBankingRates

While President Donald Trump continues to defend tariffs as the best way to reduce U.S. trade deficits, many economists fear that the tariffs will mainly serve to push consumer prices higher.

To help ease that problem, some lawmakers have proposed sending out stimulus payments similar to those distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic. One such proposal, recently introduced by U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), would provide $600 “tariff checks” to eligible Americans.

The question is how effectively a tariff check would offset tariff-related inflation. Keep reading to learn the truth about the tariff checks, according to Jaspreet Singh and other money experts.

Where Will the Money Come From?

Hawley’s American Worker Rebate Act (AWRA) aims to return certain tariff revenue to U.S. households as a way of providing financial relief, according to an analysis from the Tax Foundation.

If passed, the rebate would provide $600 to eligible Americans, or $2,400 for a family of four. Those benefits would be reduced by 5% for joint filers with an adjusted gross income above $150,000 or single filers earning more than $75,000, Singh said in a YouTube video titled “The TRUTH About Trump’s $600 Tariff Checks For Americans.”

The idea is similar to stimulus checks sent during COVID, which aimed to help American families navigate the pandemic’s economic fallout.

The problem, according to Singh, is that stimulus checks in just about any form could have long-term repercussions that might eventually cost Americans more than they received in benefits.

“If you follow the trail of money for the stimulus checks in 2020 and 2021, it started with the Federal Reserve Bank turning on their money printer and lending trillions of dollars to the United States government,” Singh said.

‘A Number of Problems’

TO READ MORE:  https://news.yahoo.com/news/finance/news/truth-600-tariff-checks-according-110252422.html

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Thursday Morning 8-21-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Fed Governor Tells Bankers DeFi Is ‘Nothing to Be Afraid Of’

Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller urged policymakers and bankers not to fear decentralized finance (DeFi) and stablecoins, calling them drivers of innovation in the U.S. payments system.

Waller reassured both his peers and the private banking sector that crypto payments operating outside traditional banking infrastructure are not inherently risky.

“There is nothing scary about this just because it occurs in the decentralized finance or DeFi world — this is simply new technology to transfer objects and record transactions,” he said at the Wyoming Blockchain Symposium 2025.

He emphasized that leveraging smart contracts, tokenization, or distributed ledgers for everyday transactions should be viewed as a natural evolution of payment services rather than a threat.

Federal Reserve’s Shift Toward Embracing Crypto

• In April 2025, the Fed withdrew 2022 guidance that had discouraged banks from engaging in crypto and stablecoin activities.

• Last week, the Fed also ended its risk-heavy “novel activities supervision program” that oversaw crypto-related activity.

• Fed Vice Chair Michelle Bowman recently suggested Fed staff be allowed to hold small amounts of crypto to better understand the technology.

Waller’s comments highlight the Fed’s ongoing pivot toward integrating digital assets into the U.S. financial system.

Waller as Potential Next Fed Chair

Waller’s views carry additional weight as he is considered a front-runner to replace Jerome Powell when Powell’s term ends in May 2026.

• President Donald Trump has reportedly pressured Powell to resign early.

• If nominated and confirmed, Waller could become the next crypto-friendly Fed chair, shaping U.S. monetary and payment policy during a transformative era.

Making Crypto Relatable

Waller compared stablecoin transactions to ordinary debit card purchases.

• Buying a memecoin with stablecoins works the same way as tapping a debit card to buy groceries, he explained.

• In both cases, money is transferred and a transaction record is generated — whether it’s a paper receipt or a blockchain ledger.

This analogy framed crypto payments as intuitive and familiar, rather than radical.

GENIUS Act: Key for Stablecoin Adoption

Waller praised the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act as an “important step” for adoption.

• Stablecoins, he argued, could strengthen the dollar’s global role, particularly in high-inflation countries and regions with limited access to physical dollars.

• They also improve both retail and cross-border payments.

Stablecoin Market Outlook

• Current stablecoin market size: $280 billion

• U.S. Treasury projects the market will reach $2 trillion by 2028 — a 615% increase.

• Growth will be accelerated by a clear regulatory framework and stablecoin issuers’ demand for U.S. Treasury bills.

• Market leaders today: Tether (USDT) at $167B and Circle (USDC) at $67.5B (CoinGecko data).

Bottom Line:
Waller’s remarks mark a major philosophical shift from the Fed, positioning DeFi and stablecoins not as threats but as essential innovations. With the GENIUS Act laying the regulatory foundation and the stablecoin market primed for explosive growth, the U.S. is signaling that the future of payments will be digital, dollar-backed, and blockchain-enabled.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Cointelegraph   

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Beacon Network: A New Global System to Track Crypto Fraud

A powerful new initiative is reshaping the fight against crypto crime. The Beacon Network — backed by major exchanges, financial companies, and regulators — enables the rapid detection and freezing of stolen blockchain funds.

Key points:

• The network brings together Coinbase, Binance, Kraken, Robinhood, PayPal, Anchorage Digital, Ripple, and leading security researchers like ZachXBT and SEAL.

• Supported by law enforcement and regulatory authorities in multiple countries.

• Designed as a “kill chain” system for digital assets, moving from detection to blocking in minutes, not days.

• Already blocked over $1 million in fraud-related crypto transactions.

Why it matters:

• Since 2023, more than $47 billion in crypto has been linked to scams, hacks, and fraud.

• Traditional investigations lag behind the speed of blockchain transfers, making recovery nearly impossible after funds are dispersed.

• The Beacon Network enables real-time alerts when stolen funds hit participating platforms, allowing them to be frozen before they vanish.

First successes:

• $1.5 million recovered from an international fraud scheme.

• $800,000 in fraudulent deposits frozen before withdrawal.

Safeguards and reliability:

• Only verified investigators and partners can report illicit activity.

• Each report must be backed by evidence and accountability, reducing the risk of abuse.

Next steps:

• Expand partnerships to widen coverage across global exchanges and financial networks.

• Focus on tracking funds tied to North Korean hacker groups and combating terrorist financing.

• Strengthen protections for victims of large-scale fraud.

The Beacon Network represents a turning point: crypto’s leading players and regulators uniting to make the ecosystem safer and more transparent, leaving criminals fewer places to hide.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: CoinTribune

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U.S. Patent Shows XRP Registered as a Payment Method in the United States

A United States trademark registration for XRP as a payment method has resurfaced, sparking both excitement and confusion in the crypto community.

The document, issued by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in December 2013 under Registration Number 4,458,993, is authentic but does not carry the sweeping implications some community figures suggest.

The XRP Trademark: What It Really Means

• Filed by OpenCoin, Inc. (now Ripple Labs) on May 17, 2013

• Registered under International Class 36 for financial services

• Defines XRP as a means of providing secure payment options in both traditional and digital currencies across a global computer network

• Ripple listed its first commercial use of XRP as March 1, 2013

• The filing protects the name “XRP” as a service mark for financial services — not government recognition of XRP itself as a legal payment method

Multiple independent sources confirm the registration details, including Justia Trademarks, USPTO’s TSDR system, and academic references such as the UC Davis Law Review. The registration remains active, with Ripple maintaining regular renewals.

Community Reaction vs. Reality

Some XRP community influencers have suggested the trademark proves the U.S. patented XRP as a payment method or gave it official government backing in 2013.

• Influencer Amelia and others claimed it was a sign of U.S. recognition.

• JackTheRippler echoed similar interpretations.

However, the reality is straightforward: Ripple itself filed the trademark to protect the XRP name, much like its more recent filing for its stablecoin RLUSD.

The registration does not represent U.S. government endorsement or regulatory approval.

Why It Still Matters

While not proof of government recognition, the trademark highlights Ripple’s early legal foresight in securing XRP’s intellectual property protections.

• Ripple currently holds 39 U.S. patents, with 18 granted and 62% active.

• The 2013 XRP filing reflects Ripple’s long-standing strategy to legally defend its financial technologies.

✅ Key Takeaway: XRP’s 2013 USPTO trademark filing demonstrates Ripple’s early commitment to securing its brand legally. It does not, however, signal U.S. government approval of XRP as a national payment system.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: The Crypto Basic

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MilitiaMan and Crew: Iraq Dinar News Update-Integration Global Financial System

MilitiaMan and Crew: Iraq Dinar News Update-Integration Global Financial System

8-20-2025

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=w8cHB7fbJGs

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Afternoon 8-20-25

An Economist Predicts The Next Government Will Change The Dollar Exchange Rate, And Explains The Reasons.

Time: 2025/08/20 Read: 1,860 times   {Economic: Al Furat News} Economists expect the next government to resort to an official devaluation of the Iraqi dinar against the US dollar as a potential solution to address mounting financial burdens, most notably the massive government payroll.

Economic expert Nabil Al-Marsoumi told Al Furat News Agency that "the salary bill accounts for the largest portion of oil revenues, leaving little for upgrading infrastructure or basic services."

Al-Marsoumi believes that devaluing the currency will provide greater financial revenues in dinars, which will help the government cover salary expenses.

He added that this option may be one of the necessary measures that the new government may take, especially in light of the current oil prices that threaten to close the country's economic development prospects.

Experts emphasize that sustainable solutions lie in diversifying sources of public revenue and not relying entirely on oil, in order to ensure the stability of the Iraqi economy in the long term.  LINK

The Dollar Rises Again, Reaching Around 142,200

economy |  08/20/2025  Mawazine News - Baghdad - The dollar exchange rate rose on Wednesday (August 20, 2025) on the Iraqi Stock Exchange and money exchanges.

The US dollar exchange rate recorded 142,200 dinars for every $100 in morning trading on the main stock exchange in the capital, Baghdad.

The exchange rate in local markets in Baghdad reached 143,250 dinars for sale, while the purchase price reached 141,250 dinars.   https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=265412

The Central Bank Is Witnessing Foreign Transfer Operations In All Currencies.

Economy |  08/20/2025  Mawazine News - Baghdad -  The Governor of the Central Bank, Ali Al-Alaq, confirmed today, Wednesday, the coverage of almost all major currencies, while indicating that the Central Bank is witnessing foreign exchange operations in all currencies smoothly and with high fluidity.

Al-Alaq said, "The foreign exchange process has witnessed significant development during the past two years, whether in terms of method, approach, and organization, or through direct communication and direct transfer between Iraqi banks and approved correspondent banks."

He added, "This expansion is not only in the number of correspondent or transferring banks, but also in the number of currencies," noting that "the Central Bank covers almost all currencies used by Iraq for the purpose of large-scale trade."

He stressed that "the Central Bank is today witnessing transfer operations in almost all major currencies, and they are carried out smoothly and with high fluidity." https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=265410

An Expert Warns Against Adjusting The Dollar Exchange Rate And Outlines A Solution To Address The Decline In Oil Prices.

Time: 2025/08/20 Reading: 945 times   {Economic: Al Furat News} Economic expert Salah Nouri confirmed on Wednesday that adjusting the dollar exchange rate falls within the purview of the Central Bank of Iraq, noting that this measure is a monetary policy tool aimed at achieving economic stability and combating inflation or deflation.

Nouri stressed to Al Furat News Agency "the need to achieve harmony between the monetary policy managed by the Central Bank and the fiscal policy undertaken by the Ministry of Finance through the general budget."

The economic expert explained that raising the dollar exchange rate—i.e., devaluing the dinar—increases the amount of Iraqi dinars the Ministry of Finance receives from the Central Bank to cover budget expenditures. However, he warned that this measure leads to a decline in the purchasing power of citizens, especially those with limited income.

In contrast, Nouri explained that depreciating the dollar—i.e., increasing the purchasing power of the dinar—reduces the amount of dinars the Ministry of Finance receives, creating difficulties in implementing the general budget, particularly the operational portion. He pointed out that the decline in global oil prices further complicates this problem, as it impacts the state revenues needed to finance the budget.

The economic expert noted that many governments around the world are adopting austerity measures in public spending, particularly regarding unnecessary benefits, to ensure the sustainability of the general budget and meet only basic needs. Nouri concluded his statement by emphasizing that such measures are a necessary solution to support the budget in light of the current economic challenges. LINK

Al-Sudani Directs The Formation Of A Joint National Team To Prepare An Integrated Strategy For The Financial And Banking Sector.

Wednesday, August 20, 2025, | Politics  Number of readings: 350  Baghdad / NINA / Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani directed the formation of a joint national team to prepare an integrated strategy for the financial and banking sector.

A statement from the Prime Minister's Office stated that in line with the government's directives aimed at strengthening Iraq's financial and economic position at the international level, the Prime Minister directed the formation of a joint national team, headed by the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, and including representatives from the Ministries of Finance, Oil, and Planning, specialized economic and financial institutions, in addition to the Prime Minister's Office, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and representatives of the Iraqi banking sector.

He explained that this national team will work to prepare an integrated strategy that includes clear and measurable goals, with periodic reports being submitted to the competent authorities, and direct coordination with major international credit rating agencies, especially (Fitch, S&P, Moody's) with the aim of improving Iraq's sovereign credit rating.

The team will also pay special attention to strengthening governance tools, managing financial risks, and developing the business environment in line with the economic reform plans adopted by the government.

He added that this directive comes within the framework of the government's vision to adopt a comprehensive national strategy aimed at improving Iraq's sovereign credit rating, which contributes to enhancing international confidence in the national economy, and opening broader horizons for direct and indirect foreign investments.

The government affirms that this step represents a clear commitment to its reform approach and its keenness to achieve economic stability, support the stability of the financial system, and provide an attractive investment environment that contributes to diversifying sources of income and reducing dependence on oil as the sole main resource. /End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?Key=1247349

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Wednesday Afternoon 8-20-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

India’s Rupee Goes Global Instead of Single BRICS Currency Plan

India’s BRICS global rupee initiatives are reshaping international trade as New Delhi officially abandons the idea of a single BRICS currency in favor of bilateral agreements. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been signing direct settlement agreements, enabling transactions in rupees without dollar conversion.

This represents India’s systematic move to ditch dollar dependence through partnerships with countries like the Maldives and the UAE, positioning the rupee’s global ambitions as a more practical alternative to the proposed BRICS currency that never materialized.

India’s Global Rupee Strategy Replaces BRICS Currency Plans

The single BRICS currency proposal cooled after the July 2025 BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro produced no concrete framework. Instead, leaders shifted focus to bilateral trade agreements in local currencies—a solution seen as more realistic.

• A landmark development came in November 2024, when the RBI signed an agreement with the Maldivian Monetary Authority, allowing transactions to be settled directly in rupees and rufiyaa.

• This bypasses dollar-based networks, making transactions faster and cheaper, while boosting the rupee’s regional influence.

• According to RBI Deputy Governor Sanjay Malhotra, India has already implemented similar frameworks with the UAE, and negotiations are ongoing with other Asian and African countries.

This demonstrates a clear internationalization of the rupee, with the potential to reshape regional trade flows.

How BRICS India Trade Settlements Work

India’s settlement system eliminates dollar conversion by creating direct bilateral clearing mechanisms.

• Example: A Maldivian company importing Indian rice can pay in rufiyaa, which is automatically converted into rupees through RBI-authorized systems.

• This approach is more feasible than a multilateral BRICS currency, requiring less infrastructure and relying on bilateral trust.

• Benefits include reduced foreign exchange exposure, lower conversion fees, and less vulnerability to sanctions.

India’s Global Rupee Expansion and Competition

India’s global rupee initiative is expanding beyond its current agreements, with multiple countries in Asia and Africa negotiating to join.

• India’s bilateral approach competes directly with China’s yuan internationalization, which emphasizes multilateral adoption.

• Meanwhile, Russia has promoted ruble usage with regional allies, but with limited global traction.

• This sets the stage for currency competition within BRICS: rupee (bilateral), yuan (multilateral), and ruble (regional).

Strategic Benefits of India Ditching the Dollar

India’s move away from dollar reliance carries several strategic advantages:

• Monetary autonomy – avoiding external pressure from U.S. dollar fluctuations while preserving internal policy control.

• Lower costs – significantly reducing transaction costs for BRICS and India-linked trade.

• Sanctions resilience – shielding partners from the risks of dollar-based financial systems.

• Geoeconomic power – expanding rupee usage strengthens India’s leverage with trade partners.

This strategy positions India against China’s yuan push, but by taking a different path—bilateral agreements rather than multilateral frameworks.

Future of BRICS Currency Alternatives

While the unified BRICS currency plan has stalled, member nations are advancing individual currency strategies:

• India – bilateral rupee settlements.

• China – multilateral yuan adoption.

• Russia – regional ruble agreements.

Together, these approaches may displace the dollar more effectively than a single BRICS currency ever could.

The success of India’s rupee internationalization depends on expanding bilateral agreements and building long-term trust with trading partners. By prioritizing practical implementation over complex negotiations, India’s rupee push could deliver faster, more significant results than the original BRICS common currency proposal.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Watcher Guru

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Morning 8-20-25

OPEC Oil Refining Capacity: What Is Iraq's Ranking?
 
Economy  2025-08-19 | 583 views  Alsumaria News – Economy   oil refining capacity continues OPEC its five-year upward trend, with     new refineries being built or   existing capacity being expanded.
 
The organization's latest annual statistics, published by the Washington-based Energy Research Unit, showed thatoil refining capacity in member states increased by 18.5%, or 2.2 million barrels per day,
during the period from 2020 to 2024.

OPEC 's oil refining capacity increased by 0.5%, or 71,000 barrels per day, in 2024,
bringing the total to 14.14 million barrels per day.
 
The share of the 12 OPEC member states in total global refining capacity increased from 11.8% in 2020 to 13.6% in 2024, with global capacity reaching 103.8 million barrels per day last year.
 
On the other hand, refinery production in OPEC countries increased by 5%,
or 411,000 barrels per day, to reach 8.921 million barrels per day in 2024,
compared to about 8.511 million in 2023.
 
This means that OPEC's refinery utilization rate —refinery production divided by total refining capacity—will not exceed 63% in 2024, according to the Energy Research Unit's analysis.
 
Developments In Oil Refining Capacity In OPEC Countries
 
accounted Saudi Arabia for nearly a quarter of OPEC's oil refining capacity in 2024,
with its refining capacity remaining unchanged at 3.291 million barrels per day (bpd) from 2023.
 
The Kingdom's refining capacity increased by 12.5%, or 364,000 barrels per day,
between 2020 and 2024, according to OPEC's annual report. ranked Iran second among OPEC countries,
with its refining capacity set to stabilize at 2.237 million barrels per day in 2024.
 
Iran's refining capacity has not seen significant changes over the past five years,
remaining at around 2.2 million barrels per day, or slightly higher since 2020.
 
Venezuela ranked third among OPEC countries, with its crude refining capacity set to remain stable at 2.154 million barrels per day in 2024, the same level as in 2020.
 
Refining Capacity In Kuwait, Iraq And The UAE
 
Kuwait has taken fourth place in OPEC's oil refining capacity, with its capacity increasing by pproximately 36,000 barrels per day, reaching 1.451 million barrels per day by 2024.
 
Kuwait's refining capacity has seen a significant jump of 81%,
or 651,000 barrels per day, since 2020, thanks to the operation of the Al-Zour refinery,
according to comparative data analyzed by the Energy Research Unit.
 
ranked Iraq fifth, with its refining capacity remaining stable at 1.266 million barrels per day in 2024, unchanged from 2023.

However, Iraq's refining capacity has jumped by 67%, or 508,000 barrels per day, since 2020.
 
The UAE ranked sixth in terms of refining capacity,
which remained virtually stable at 1.227 million barrels per day in 2024, unchanged from 2020.
 
Refining Capacity In Nigeria, Algeria And Libya
 
Nigeria ranked seventh in OPEC's oil refining capacity,
with its capacity set to increase by just 3,000 barrels per day to 1.125 million barrels per day in 2024.
 
Nigeria's refining capacity remained below 500,000 barrels per day from 2020 to 2022,
before jumping to 1.22 million barrels per day in 2023.
 
The main reason for this boom is the operation of the Dangote Refinery (the largest refinery in Africa),
which has a design capacity of approximately 650,000 barrels per day.
 
Algeria ranked eighth, with its refining capacity remaining stable at 677,000 barrels per day in 2024,
unchanged from 2020.
 
Libya ranked ninth, with its oil refining capacity increasing by 32,000 barrels per day,
reaching 666,000 barrels per day in 2024.
 
Libya's refining capacity remained stable at 634,000 barrels per day from 2020 to 2023,
according to annual data monitored by the Energy Research Unit.
 
OPEC Oil Refining Capacity In 2024, From Largest To Smallest
 
Gabon ranked tenth in OPEC's oil refining capacity, with its refinery capacity remaining stable at 25,000 barrels per day since 2020.
 
ranked Congo 11th, with its refining capacity remaining stable at 21,000 barrels per day in 2024, unchanged from 2020.
 
is Equatorial Guinea the only OPEC member state without refineries, according to the Energy Research Unit.

In brief, the oil refining capacity of OPEC countries in 2024 can be arranged as follows:

Saudi Arabia: 3.291 million barrels per day.
Iran: 2.237 million barrels per day.
Venezuela: 2.154 million barrels per day.
Kuwait: 1.451 million barrels per day.
Iraq: 1.266 million barrels per day.
UAE: 1.227 million barrels per day.
Nigeria: 1.125 million barrels per day.
Algeria: 677,000 barrels per day.
Libya: 666,000 barrels per day.
Gabon: 25,000 barrels per day.
Congo: 21,000 barrels per day.    
  
https://www.alsumaria.tv/news/economy/537686/طاقة-تكرير-النفط-في-دول-أوبك-ما-ترتيب-العراق؟    

Government Advisor: Oil Will Return To $75 Soon... Here's Why

Time: 2025/08/19 Read: 600 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} The Prime Minister's economic advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, confirmed that the need for oil energy will increase after each cycle of price decline, noting that this increase will restore balance to the energy market, which will push the price of a barrel of oil to an average of no less than $75 higher.

Saleh told Al Furat News: “The need for oil energy will increase after each cycle of price decline due to the rise in production costs in the world’s major producing regions, which will restore balance to the energy market and raise the price of a barrel of oil to an average of no less than $75 per barrel, especially after the market’s glut of cheap oil disappears due to geopolitical turmoil around the world.”

He added, "This is a temporary situation that does not represent a long-term investment strategy in oil energy markets, particularly the US production market, as it is the world's largest oil producer, but at high costs compared to the low-cost production costs of Middle Eastern and Gulf oil."   LINK

Economic Media
 
Economic 08/20/2025  Yasser Al-Mutawali  It is necessary to reconsider the selection of figures who speak on economic issues,  to ensure the transmission of a clear and attractive image that reflects real potential,   thus serving as a tool to enhance trust and attract international cooperation.
 
The danger of economic discourse lies in its external repercussions, as
it directly contributes to shaping other countries' perceptions of a country's strength or weakness.

Since international relations are built on the size, capabilities, and potential of each country,
the image of the national economy becomes the basis for shared interests.
 
It goes without saying that a country's strength is largely measured by the strength of its economy,
     a key criterion for determining the nature of its economic relations with the world.
 
In the case of Iraq,
there is a dire need to unify the economic media discourse to enhance the country's reputation
and present it as a significant economic power,
     given its untapped wealth and resources, in addition to
     its status as an oil-producing country par excellence.
 
The goal here is to attract investment and build solid economic relations in this manner.
 
But what happens if a false image of a country's economy is conveyed?
 
The likely result is a state of uncertainty, especially when
     statements conflict and the
     language of unification disappears from the discourse,
          replacing the image of strength with an impression of weakness.
 
One of the most prominent causes of this problem is the growing circle of so-called "accidental experts."
 
These are individuals who
     present themselves, or are
     presented through certain media outlets,
          as economic experts,
               without possessing any real qualifications.
 
An economic expert is not just a title;
     it is the result of a long process that begins with an interest in economic affairs,
          then progresses to the stage of economic researcher, and
               finally to the level of expert, which is
                    awarded through scientific evaluation by a competent and respected body,
                    after accumulating
                         experience and a
                         deep understanding of economic theories and concepts.
 
The lack of precise criteria for awarding the title of "expert" has negatively impacted Iraq's international image.
 
Statements by non-experts have painted a vague picture of the economic reality,
     leading to a disdainful view from some countries,
          which have come to view Iraq as a country unqualified to build strong economic relations.
 
Therefore, it is necessary to reconsider the selection of figures who speak on economic issues,
     ensuring they convey a clear and attractive image that reflects real potential, thus
          serving as a tool for enhancing trust and attracting international cooperation.
 
The phenomenon of “coincidence experts” can be said to be comparable to malicious rumors in the extent of their negative impact on public opinion, and perhaps even exceed them in Some cases.   https://alsabaah.iq/119250-.html  

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