Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Monday Afternoon 9-15-25

An Economist Explains The Reason For The Fluctuations In The Dollar Exchange Rate.
 
    September 14, Information/Special…  Economic researcher Ali Karim Idhaib confirmed on Sunday that the  fluctuations in the dinar's exchange rate against the dollar  are linked to a number of  internal and   external factors,  most notably the local market's near-total reliance on imports.
 
“The improvement or decline in global oil prices,  which represent the main source of state revenues,  is directly reflected in the volume of dollar flows into the local market,”    Idhaib told Al-Maalouma Agency.

He noted that “restrictions imposed on the sale and transfer of dollars by the Central Bank,  and external interventions related to combating money laundering,  have also contributed to increased volatility.

”  He pointed out that "political and  economic instability    in the country    plays a pivotal role in the increased demand for foreign currency, along with the continued smuggling of dollars out of Iraq," explaining that "these factors combined are putting increasing pressure on the exchange rate." 

 He pointed out that "the Central Bank is attempting to intervene through  currency auctions and  regulatory measures  to curb speculation, but these measures will remain temporary  unless dollar revenues are sustainably boosted.

"  He stressed that "the stability of the   political and   economic situation and the    increase in the state's hard currency resources   are the decisive factor in  alleviating pressure on the dinar and   stabilizing the exchange rate." End/25Q      
https://almaalomah.me/news/110271/economy/اقتصادي-يبين-سبب-تقلبات-سعر-صرف-الدولار 

Expert: Iraq's Single-Source Income Threatens An Economic Crisis Within Years
 
 Time: 2025/09/12 Read: 1,620 times   {Economic: Al Furat News} Economic expert Abdul Rahman Al Mashhadani confirmed that tax revenues in Iraq are unclear,  pointing to the lack of accurate data on the categories covered by the tax, especially those working in the private sector.

Al-Mashhadani told Al-Furat News Agency that "the lack of data on private sector workers represents a real challenge to tax collection," noting that  "the current year's budget included 27 trillion dinars in non-oil revenues." 

He added that "the revenues generated from these budgets do not exceed 50% of the budgeted amount,  while actual revenues were supposed to be higher than the specified amount," warning that "the economic situation in Iraq is facing an existing crisis,  which could worsen in the coming years  if real measures are not taken to diversify sources of income."

Al-Mashhadani continued, "Reliance on a single resource, oil, makes the Iraqi economy vulnerable to fluctuations in global markets,  which directly impacts the  general budget and the   government's ability to meet expenditures."    
  
https://alforatnews.iq/news/خبير-الدخل-الأحادي-للعراق-يهدد-بأزمة-اقتصادية-خلال-سنوات 

Diversifying Revenues: An Economic Expert Identifies The Most Prominent Solution To Free Iraq From Oil Price Fluctuations.
 
Baghdad Today – Baghdad    Oil and economic affairs expert Ahmed Askar confirmed on Sunday (September 14, 2025) that  Iraq's financial and economic situation  will remain subject to "global fluctuations,"  while offering solutions to address this issue. 

Askar told Baghdad Today, "The economic situation in Iraq will remain directly linked to fluctuations in global oil prices.  Any decline in prices could place pressure on the  general budget and the  ability to finance  services and  investment projects.

" He explained that "the near-total dependence on oil revenues makes the Iraqi economy vulnerable to these fluctuations,  which requires the adoption of  flexible, pre-planned fiscal policies,  not just immediate reactions."  

The expert added that Iraq could face challenges related to financing expenditures,   stabilizing the exchange rate, and  rising inflation rates  if oil prices decline.

Askar pointed out that Proposed solutions to enhance economic stability  the next phase requires real reforms, most notably:  Develop budgets based on multiple oil price scenarios.  

Establish a savings fund  or  financial stability mechanism  to cover expenses when revenues decline.    

Diversifying sources of income  by developing non-oil sectors. Enhancing transparency in spending and    directing resources towards economically viable projects.
 
Askar concluded by saying, "Iraq urgently needs clear policies that  ensure economic stability in the near term and    pave the way for sustainable diversification   that reduces dependence on oil as the primary source of revenue."
 
Iraq's seaborne oil exports varied in the first quarter of this year.
 
Exports rose by 29,000 barrels per day (bpd) year-on-year in January,but declined by 57,000 bpd in February.  March saw the largest decline,   declining by 200,000 bpd compared to the same month last year.  https://baghdadtoday.news/283130-.html 

Iraq's Gold Is Traded And Smuggled. Shocking Figures Reveal The Truth.
 
September 13, 2025  Baghdad/Iraq Observer  The unprecedented quantities of gold imports into Iraq in 2024    raise numerous questions about   their destination and    impact on the national economy.
 
The value of imports reached approximately $12.5 billion,  equivalent to nearly 16% of total imports.

Based on average gold prices last year, the imported quantity exceeds 120 tons.
 
Compared to the Central Bank of Iraq's reserves of only about $18 billion,    the import volume raises questions about the fate of these large quantities of the precious metal, especially given the lack of accurate and transparent data from border crossings.
 
Initial reports indicate that more than 60 tons entered via air ports in the Kurdistan Region,
while the central government's ports have not announced any clear figures.
 
Questions are being raised about the fate of these quantities of gold, as  experts believe that a large portion of the imported quantities were consumed domestically,  after   the precious metal became an alternative investment tool to the dollar.
 
With the decline in the value of the US currency against gold, individuals and large investors rushed to acquire it as a safe haven, which  affected the volume of bank deposits and  weakened domestic dollar trading.
 
Meanwhile, another hypothesis is emerging, suggesting that  some traders have  exploited the official dollar exchange rate in Iraq  to import gold, then re-exported it to neighboring countries like Turkey
to profit from price differences.
 
Economists describe this process as potentially devastating for the economy if left unchecked.
 
There are also suggestions that  gold may have been used as a means of barter with Iran,
        given the absence of formal banking channels between the two countries.
 
It has become a tool for settling trade deals in exchange for Iranian goods and commodities,
    in line with the non-cash nature of the existing exchange between Baghdad and Tehran.
 
Broader economic risks
 
For his part, economic expert Munar Al-Abidi explained that "the surge in gold imports requires an urgent review by Iraqi authorities, especially since their   volume is three times the usual annual rate in previous years,    which did not exceed $4 billion."  Al-Obaidi added to the Iraq Observer that  "a portion of these quantities may not actually enter the consumer market,  but rather become a conduit for settling foreign transactions through informal means, which creates serious   economic and  legal loopholes and  exposes Iraq to risks related to combating money laundering and the financing of illegal activities."
 
Experts point out that  understanding the trajectory of these imports requires international cooperation to track data  in countries that may be  re-exporting gold  or  receiving it as trade compensation.
 
The discrepancy between  Iraqi figures  and  global trade data  raises doubts about the size of the informal market and  requires the implementation of stricter oversight mechanisms. https://observeriraq.net/ذهب-العراق-بين-المقايضة-والتهريب-أرقا/ 

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Afternoon 9-15-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

BRICS News: Trump Targets China With 100% Tariffs on Russian Oil

Proposed tariffs escalate economic confrontation with China, Russia, and BRICS energy trade alliances.

Trump’s Tariff Strategy Hits BRICS Energy Flows
President Trump unveiled a plan to impose 50% to 100% tariffs on Chinese purchases of Russian oil, directly targeting BRICS energy trade.

• Trump argued tariffs would “break China’s grip” over Russia.

• The measures would only be withdrawn if the Russia-Ukraine war ends.

• China, Russia’s largest oil customer, conducts much of this trade in yuan through long-term agreements.

NATO Allies Under Pressure
The tariffs are not limited to China. Trump also called on NATO members to halt Russian oil purchases.

• Turkey, Hungary, and Slovakia remain key NATO buyers of Russian petroleum.

• Trump warned their energy ties “greatly weaken bargaining power over Russia.”

• A NATO oil ban is now under discussion, adding pressure on alliance unity.

Escalation Follows Familiar Trade Pattern
This push builds on earlier tariff escalations:

• Trump previously imposed 145% tariffs on Chinese goods.

• China retaliated with 125% import taxes on U.S. exports.

• Current tariff rates remain at 30% (U.S.) and 10% (China), though Trump has already hit India’s Russian oil purchases with 50% tariffs.

Global Response and Market Risk
The geopolitical stakes are rising:

• U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Russian drones entering Poland could be “highly escalatory.”

• Ambassador Dorothy Shea told the U.N. Security Council, “America will defend every inch of NATO territory.”

• The U.K. sanctioned 70 vessels transporting Russian petroleum, targeting businesses in China and Turkey.

• Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged the G7 to cut off revenues funding Russia’s war.

Why This Matters
Trump’s proposed tariffs on Chinese-Russian energy flows—combined with possible NATO oil bans—represent one of the boldest economic pressure campaigns yet. If implemented, it would reshape global trade flows, energy security, and BRICS strategies, directly pitting Western alliances against the bloc’s resource ties.

This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Watcher Guru

~~~~~~~~~

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Monday Morning 9-15-25

Central Bank Governor: Inflation In Iraq Is The Lowest In Its History

Time: 2025/09/14 13:25:09 Reading: 885 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} The Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, met with the Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, in London. The meeting aimed to strengthen the historical relations between the two banks and discuss avenues for joint cooperation.

According to a statement from the Central Bank, a copy of which was received by {Euphrates News}, the two sides focused on "supporting the efforts of the Central Bank of Iraq and the Iraqi government in digital transformation. The Bank of England's experience in modernizing its paper currency was also reviewed, in addition to its studies in the field of digital currencies."

During the meeting, Al-Alaq highlighted the success of Iraq's monetary policy in maintaining price stability, stressing that inflation rates have reached a historic low (less than 2%). The two sides also discussed the management of foreign reserves, particularly since the Central Bank of Iraq maintains a portion of these reserves with the Bank of England.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Al-Alaq called on his British counterpart to support Iraq's efforts to join the Bank for International Settlements in Switzerland, given that the Bank of England is a member of the bank's board of directors.LINK

Central Bank: Our Monetary Policy Has Succeeded In Stabilizing Prices.

Banks   Economy News – Baghdad  The Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, announced on Sunday that monetary policy has succeeded in stabilizing prices, while noting that inflation has reached 2%.

A statement from the bank, received by Al-Eqtisad News, stated that "the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq met with the Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, at the bank's headquarters in London.

They discussed the historical relations between the two banks and ways to cooperate in supporting the efforts of the Iraqi government and the Central Bank of Iraq in the field of digital transformation, and benefiting from the Bank of England's experience in modernizing its paper currency and its studies in digital currencies."

During his speech, the Governor pointed to "the success of monetary policy in maintaining the stability of the general price level, as a fundamental objective of monetary policy," stressing that inflation levels are the lowest in history, reaching less than 2%.

Al-Alaq touched on "the relationship between the two sides in the field of foreign reserves management, especially since the Central Bank of Iraq keeps a portion of its reserves in the vaults of the Bank of England."

Al-Alaq called on Bailey to "support the efforts of the Central Bank of Iraq to join the Bank for International Settlements in Switzerland, given that the Bank of England is a member of the aforementioned bank's board of directors’ https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=60014

The Planning Ministry Announced The Import Of More Than 28 Tons Of Gold Through Baghdad And Najaf Airports.

Economy | 09/14/2025  Mawazine News – Baghdad  The Ministry of Planning announced, today, Sunday, the import of (28) tons and (298) kg of gold through Baghdad and Najaf airports, during the period extending from October 2023 until the end of December 2024.

The head of the Central Organization for Standardization and Quality Control, Fayyad Al-Dulaimi, explained in a statement that “about (4) tons were imported during the last three months of 2023, while the imported quantities during 2024 alone exceeded (24) tons.”

Al-Dulaimi indicated that “the jewelry department in the organization, after the opening of the two inspection units in the two aforementioned airports pursuant to the Council of Ministers’ decision, inspected and labeled all imported quantities, achieving financial revenues exceeding (5) billion and (536) million dinars.”  https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=266742

Al-Halbousi Discusses The Political Situation In The Country With The US Chargé d'Affaires.

Sunday, September 14, 2025, | Politics Number of reads: 267  Baghdad / NINA / The head of the Progress Party, Mohammed al-Halbousi, received today, Sunday, the new Chargé d'Affaires of the United States Embassy in Iraq, Joshua Harris.

According to a statement from al-Halbousi's office, the meeting discussed the political situation in the country, the upcoming parliamentary elections, as well as international developments and their repercussions on the region. /End   https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?Key=1251876

The Dollar Price Rose In Baghdad As The Stock Exchange Closed.

Economy | 04:42 - 09/14/2025  Mawazine News - Baghdad - The exchange rate of the US dollar against the Iraqi dinar witnessed a rise in the markets of the capital, Baghdad, with the closing of the stock exchange, on Sunday evening.

The Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya stock exchanges recorded 143,000 dinars for every $100, after it was at 142,750 dinars in trading this morning.

Meanwhile, exchange rates in exchange shops in the local markets in Baghdad also witnessed a rise, as the selling price reached 144,000 dinars for every $100, while the buying price reached 142,000 dinars.
https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=266755

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Morning 9-15-25

Good morning Dinar Recaps,

Charlie Kirk’s Assassination Sparks Global Vigils, Geopolitical Reverberations

The killing of Turning Point USA founder ignites a wave of tributes, protests, and political reflection across continents.

Worldwide Mourning
Charlie Kirk’s assassination in Utah has sent shockwaves across the globe, sparking vigils, parliamentary tributes, and political reflection from Europe to Asia.

Seventeen nations are holding ongoing vigils in his honor.

• The Polish Parliament observed a moment of silence.

• In Berlin, crowds gathered outside the U.S. Embassy with candles.

• Madrid’s Viva 2025 summit saw Europe’s top conservative leaders unite in remembrance.

• Even U.S. sports arenas joined in: the New York Jets stadium erupted in chants of “USA! USA!” as “Amazing Grace” played in Kirk’s memory.

The sheer scale of response underscores his unique role as a conservative activist who had become a global champion of free speech, family, and faith.

A Turning Point for the West
European leaders emphasized Kirk’s impact beyond American borders. At Viva 2025, several conservative heads of state hailed him as a “global champion of civil rights.” Finnish President Alexander Stubb captured the mood, warning:

“We are at a turning point. We are now starting to see the change of a world order... right now we are living in a 1918, 1945, or 1989 moment in world history. We just don’t know where the world is going to go.”

By invoking years that marked seismic geopolitical shifts — the end of WWI, WWII, and the Cold War — Stubb placed Kirk’s death in the context of historic inflection points that reshape global order.

Korea’s Youth Movement Inspired
In South Korea, thousands marched in Kirk’s honor, led by Park Jun-young, head of Freedom University and one of the nation’s most prominent young conservatives. Park, the son of parents deeply embedded in Korea’s liberal establishment, rejected corruption and leftist influence in his own country after encountering Kirk’s message firsthand.

Park’s tribute resonated far beyond Korea:

• He recalled Kirk telling Korean youth that “America will help to prevent Korea from being consumed by communism.”

• He pledged to model Freedom University after Turning Point USA, continuing Kirk’s mission.

• He urged young conservatives worldwide not to fear persecution or even assassination but to stand boldly for faith, family, and freedom.

Park concluded that Kirk’s murder was meant to silence a movement but would instead “ignite global outrage” and strengthen the resolve of young freedom fighters.

A Divided U.S. Response
Back in America, memorials revealed both unity and division.

• The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. hosted a national service, attended by political leaders and grassroots activists.

• NFL teams displayed contrasting approaches: while the Jets honored Kirk, the Detroit Lions, Cincinnati Bengals, and Baltimore Ravens declined tributes — a decision that itself became a flashpoint in the ongoing culture war.

This divide reflects the same geopolitical struggle echoed abroad: whether Kirk’s vision of civilizational renewal will be embraced or suppressed.

Geopolitical Implications
Charlie Kirk’s assassination is no longer just a U.S. tragedy. It has become a symbolic flashpoint in the larger global contest between competing visions of governance, economics, and civil society.

• For BRICS and non-Western blocs, it underscores Western instability and political violence.

• For European conservatives, it validates their warnings about a collapsing liberal order.

• For Asian youth movements, it provides a martyr figure uniting anti-communist resistance.

From Poland to Korea, the global response shows that Kirk’s life — and his death — has transcended American politics to become a marker of a world at the crossroads of old and new systems.

Why This Matters
Charlie Kirk’s assassination has galvanized millions across borders. His message of faith, family, and freedom has now merged with a geopolitical moment defined by rising nationalism, global discontent, and realignments in world order. What was meant to silence him may instead accelerate the very changes he championed.

This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.

@ Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources:

• Fox News

• SGT News Network

• Disclose.tv

• The Gateway Pundit

• Daily Mail

• AP / Reuters 

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Bitcoin and Crypto Brace for Market-Shaking Fed Decision

The Federal Reserve’s September policy meeting could set the tone for crypto markets into year-end.

Fed Meeting Takes Center Stage
Bitcoin hovers near $116,500 and Ether around $4,660 as the market braces for the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) decision on September 17. This week is macro-heavy, with the Fed releasing:

• Policy statement (Wednesday, 2:00 p.m. ET)

• Chair Jerome Powell’s press conference (Wednesday, 2:30 p.m. ET)

• Fresh Summary of Economic Projections (SEP) and dot plot

Futures markets are pricing in a 25-basis-point rate cut as the base case, with little expectation of a larger move. The bigger question: will Powell signal a steady path of easing into 2026 or a slower, data-dependent approach?

Why the Dot Plot Matters
The Fed’s quarterly dot plot will be pivotal for Bitcoin and broader risk assets.

• A lower 2025 median projection and softer inflation tracks would signal easier conditions for markets.

• A shallower cut path or higher neutral rate (r)* would imply tighter conditions ahead.

Powell’s press conference could validate market optimism if he highlights labor-market cooling. But a focus on inflation risks or financial stability might cap crypto’s rally.

Balance Sheet and Liquidity
The Fed has slowed quantitative tightening (QT), reducing Treasury redemptions from $25B to $5B monthly. This easing supports dollar liquidity, which in turn:

• Benefits high-beta assets like Bitcoin

• Amplifies the impact of rate cuts on crypto markets

Global Central Banks Join In
The Fed isn’t the only decision-maker this week:

• Bank of England (Sept 18): No immediate rate change expected, but QT adjustments could ripple through global markets.

• Bank of Japan (Sept 18–19): Policy shifts in Tokyo may affect US yields via yen moves, indirectly shaping crypto appetite.

Impact on Crypto
The macro transmission to crypto is clear:

• Dovish outcome: Lower rates, softer dot plot, and easier liquidity conditions = bullish for Bitcoin and altcoins.

• Hawkish surprise: Fewer cuts or higher neutral rate = stronger dollar, weaker crypto.

With Fed, BoE, and BoJ decisions compressed into 48 hours, macro forces will overshadow crypto’s internal narratives this week.

Why This Matters
Crypto trades as a high-beta risk asset in a macro-driven market. The Fed’s decision—especially its rate path into 2026—could either fuel Bitcoin’s rally or trigger a post-event sell-off.

This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Bitcoinist   

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Bank of England Stablecoin Limits Slammed by UK Crypto Groups

Industry advocates warn caps on digital pound holdings would be costly, impractical, and leave the UK trailing global competitors.

Crypto Industry Pushback
The Bank of England’s proposal to cap individual stablecoin holdings between £5,000 and £20,000 has drawn sharp criticism from UK crypto and payments groups.

• Coinbase policy head Tom Duff Gordon warned the move would hurt UK savers and weaken the pound.

• Simon Jennings of the UK Cryptoasset Business Council (UKCBC) argued caps “don’t work in practice,” since issuers cannot track individual holdings without a complex new system.

• Jennings also stressed that the plan would hinder a proposed transatlantic stablecoin corridor between the US and UK.

Regulators’ Concerns
UK regulators fear that widespread stablecoin adoption could destabilize traditional finance through:

• Currency substitution – foreign-denominated stablecoins undermining the pound.

• Bank runs – if stablecoins offer yields more attractive than bank deposits.

The Bank of England’s caution mirrors European concerns. ECB President Christine Lagarde recently warned that US stablecoin policies could pull euro deposits abroad, strengthening the dollar in global payments.

Global Competition at Stake
The debate highlights a growing policy divide:

• No other major jurisdiction has imposed individual stablecoin caps.

• Former UK chancellor George Osborne warned the UK is falling behind in digital assets, especially stablecoins.

• Some in the industry argue banks should adapt by offering higher yields rather than seeking regulatory shields.

Why This Matters
The outcome of this debate will determine whether the UK cements itself as a global hub for digital payments or slips behind the US and Europe. Stablecoins are no longer a niche issue—they are at the center of monetary sovereignty, cross-border trade, and banking competition.

This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Cointelegraph

~~~~~~~~~

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MilitiaMan and Crew: IQD News Update-International Confidence-CBI-Digital Currency

MilitiaMan and Crew:  IQD News Update-International Confidence-CBI-Digital Currency

9-14-2025

The Crew:  Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man

Follow MM on X == https://x.com/Slashn

Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJ_P-QT3z1s

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Sunday Afternoon 9-14-25

The Central Bank Concludes Its Course (Financial Crimes In Banks And Non-Banking Financial Institutions)
 
September 14, 2025  The Banking Studies Center at the Central Bank of Iraq concluded the course entitled  (Financial Crimes in Banks and Non-Banking Financial Institutions) on September 10, 2025.
 
This comes within the framework of the Banking Studies Center’s efforts to develop the skills of
    banking cadres and  non-banking institutions.

The number of participants in the course reached 46 trainees, and  the program targeted employees in all banks.

The program includes identifying financial crimes   to enhance banking financial integrity by   ensuring employees understand  financial crimes that generate financial proceeds,  combating them, and  ensuring  compliance and  anti-money laundering requirements.  https://cbi.iq/news/view/2981  

The Governor Of The Central Bank Of Iraq Meets With The Governor Of The Bank Of England.
 
September 14, 2025  His Excellency the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Mr. Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq,
met with the  Governor of the Bank of England, Mr. Andrew Bailey, at the Bank's headquarters in London. 

The meeting addressed the  historical relations between the two banks and  ways to cooperate in supporting the efforts of the  Iraqi government and the Central Bank of Iraq in the field of  digital transformation,  benefiting from the Bank of England's experience in modernizing its paper currency and its studies in digital currencies.
 
During his speech, His Excellency the Governor pointed to the  success of monetary policy in maintaining the stability of the general price level, as  a fundamental objective of monetary policy, stressing that inflation levels are the lowest in history, reaching a level of   (less than 2%).
 
His Excellency also touched on the relationship between the two sides in the field of  foreign reserves management, especially since theCentral Bank of Iraq   keeps a portion of its reserves in the  vaults of the Bank of England.
 
His Excellency Al-Alaq called on Mr. Bailey to support the  Central Bank of  Iraq's efforts to  join the Bank for International Settlements   in Switzerland, given that the  Bank of England is a member of the aforementioned bank's Board of Directors.
Central Bank of Iraq      Media Office    https://cbi.iq/news/view/2982   

Access To Project Finance Guide

September 14, 2025   :diamonds: Guide to accessing finance for small, medium and micro enterprises in Iraq. For more information, click here  https://a2fguideiq.com/ar   [NOTE: may choose EN option to read in english]    https://cbi.iq/news/view/2980  

The Dollar Suffers Weekly Losses Against the Dinar in Baghdad.

Economy | 09/13/2025   Mawazine News – Baghdad  The dollar price fell in Baghdad markets today, Saturday, with the closing of the stock exchange at the beginning of the week.

The dollar price fell in Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya, recording 142,600 Iraqi dinars for every $100, while this morning it recorded 142,850 dinars for every $100.

Selling prices also decreased in the exchange sector in local markets in Baghdad, where the selling price reached 143,500 Iraqi dinars for every $100, while the buying price reached 141,500 dinars for every $100.   https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=266709

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

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Saturday Evening 9-13-25

Government Advisor: Partnerships With International Finance Reflect Confidence In The Iraqi Investment Environment.

Money and Business  The Prime Minister's Advisor for Financial Affairs, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, affirmed on Saturday that the partnerships signed with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) represent a strategic step towards diversifying the Iraqi economy and enhancing international direct investment. He pointed out that these partnerships reflect the international corporation's confidence in the Iraqi investment environment and open new horizons for the development of non-oil sectors.

Salih said: "The conference held today in Baghdad under the title of Partnership Day between the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Iraqi government, in the presence of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, is an important strategic step towards diversifying the Iraqi economy and enhancing international direct investment."

He added that "the International Finance Corporation, one of the arms of the World Bank Group concerned with financing and partnerships with the private sector in various countries around the world, including Iraq, demonstrated through this conference clear confidence in the Iraqi investment environment, which constitutes a positive indicator for international investors."

He explained that "the link between the activities of the international corporation and the Iraqi private sector represents a qualitative shift in the government's economic policy and enhances the openness of national investments to global financial institutions, which contributes to diversifying the economy's resources and providing it with expertise and partnerships with the most important international economic centers."

Saleh continued, "The conference witnessed the signing of multi-million dollar partnership contracts in various sectors that will contribute to job creation, infrastructure improvement, and increased local production."

He pointed out that "these partnerships are expected to generate direct financial returns from the non-oil sector through seven important investment contracts, including projects in gas, renewable energy, and agriculture."

He explained that "the international institution does not only provide financing, but also brings with it management and implementation expertise and international standards, raising the level of projects in Iraq to a world-class level.

" He pointed out that "this approach will enhance growth in the industrial, services, transportation, communications, and port sectors, and provide additional resources from taxes, customs duties, and utility operating revenues, thus contributing to diversifying sources of revenue away from oil monopoly."

Under the patronage and attendance of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, the International Finance Corporation (IFC)-Iraq Partnership Day celebration was held in the capital, Baghdad, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the Corporation's presence and partnerships with Iraqi sectors.

The celebration witnessed the signing of seven important investment contracts, most notably:

- A $500 million contract to invest in associated gas and develop Umm Qasr Port facilities with Basra Gas Company.

- A $250 million contract to finance and expand cement and lubricating oil production with Al-Muhaidib Group.

- A $125 million contract to finance container handling equipment and a storage yard at Umm Qasr Port with Allurain Investment Company.

- A $65 million contract to finance the first phase of the green residential real estate development project in Sulaymaniyah with Hiwa Rauf Investment Company.

- A $10 million contract to finance a line of credit to finance international trade with the Bank of Baghdad.

- An investment partnership contract to establish sustainable agricultural and industrial projects with Sama Al-Manar/Tiriyaki Agro Company, worth $120 million.

A partnership agreement was signed with Captain Ship Holdings to establish a teaching hospital, valued at $250 million, in addition to a partnership agreement with Al-Ula Company for Financing Small and Medium Enterprises in the field of consulting services and developing investment attraction. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=59986

Iraq Ranks Second Among Arab Countries As The Largest Exporter Of Oil To The United States

Saturday, September 13, 2025, | Economic Number of reads: 301  Baghdad / NINA / The US Energy Information Administration announced, on Saturday, that Iraq's oil exports to the United States amounted to about 8 million barrels during last August.

The administration stated in a table that "Iraq exported 7.936 million barrels of crude oil to the United States during last August, down from 8.370 million barrels in July."

It added that "Iraq's average exports of crude oil to the United States amounted to 328 thousand barrels per day during the first week of August, while it exported 162 thousand barrels per day in the second week, 302 thousand barrels per day in the third week, and 231 thousand barrels per day in the fourth week."

The US Energy Information Administration explained that "Iraq ranked fifth in its exports to the United States during last month after Canada, which came in first place as the largest oil exporter to the United States, followed by Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil."

The administration indicated that "Iraq came in second place among Arab countries exporting the most oil to America, after Saudi Arabia, which came in first with exports amounting to 9.362 million barrels, and Libya came in third with exports amounting to 3.534 million barrels." / End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1251654

The Iraqi Economy and the Growing Domestic Public Debt: "Risks and Policies"

Economy News – Baghdad  Dr. Haitham Hamid Mutlaq Al-Mansour   Iraq's domestic public debt balance resumed its rise at the end of June, reaching 87 trillion and 748 billion Iraqi dinars, according to official sources. The most important reasons for this increase include:

1- The increasing need for domestic borrowing to finance the ongoing fiscal deficit, due to the high rentierism of the Iraqi economy, as oil constitutes more than 90% of the general budget revenues, which makes it vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices when they decline, and the high rates of government spending, as the government adopts an expansionary fiscal policy to finance operating expenditures, especially salaries and wages, which are often covered at the expense of investment spending.

2- The increase in government spending rates compared to the growth rates of domestic public debt, which increases the financial gap between public debt and its sustainability.

3- Weak financial management, low efficiency in collecting non-oil revenues, and rampant financial and administrative corruption continue to keep the economy in a state of deficit, exacerbating domestic public debt.

Non-oil revenues declined during the first half of this year to 4.951 trillion dinars, compared to 7.118 trillion dinars in the same period last year, a decrease of 2.167 trillion dinars, or 43.6%. This will lead to an increase in the actual deficit in the general budget and aggravation of domestic public debt.

4- The rising levels of domestic public debt also fuel the growth of the annual government financial deficit, a portion of which is allocated to paying debt installments and interest, in addition to renewable government spending items. This burdens the general budget and deepens the debt once again, thus entering the economy into a vicious cycle of persistent debt.

Accordingly, the expected economic risks of the increase in the size of the domestic public debt include:

1- Continued inflationary pressures, driven by increased money supply due to borrowing from the central bank, could lead to higher inflation, which has reached above 5% in some recent years.

2- Hindering economic growth. High debt service (interest) is likely to divert resources from development investments, such as infrastructure, health, and education. This is known as the crowding-out effect, which negatively impacts the private sector. When the government borrows domestically, it competes with the private sector for capital, potentially raising interest rates and limiting private sector activity.

Therefore, it was necessary to build counter-policies that revolve around the following:

1- Building comprehensive economic policies to manage domestic public debt and achieve its sustainability by linking it to investment funds.

2- In light of the rentier economy, the efficiency of financial revenue management must be increased and the tax system must be reformed by improving the efficiency of tax and fee collection, which currently does not exceed 10% of total revenue.

3- Diversifying the sources of funding for the general budget through development in other economic sectors, such as agriculture, industry, and tourism, to increase non-oil revenues.

4- Enhancing transparency, combating corruption, and implementing strict measures to limit corruption in the management of public funds.

5- Issuing government bonds of various denominations to attract local and foreign savings in an organized manner, instead of direct borrowing from the Central Bank.

In short, Iraq's rising domestic public debt is a wake-up call for the national economy to address this through structural reforms in the general budget and expansionary fiscal policy, diversification of revenue sources, and rationalization of spending in favor of increased investment. Without these reforms, the domestic public debt may continue to grow, threatening Iraq's long-term economic stability and financial security.  https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=59964

Signing A Number Of Investment And Development Contracts With IFC

Saturday, September 13, 2025, | Economics   Number of reads: 379  Baghdad / NINA / The celebration of the Partnership Day between the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Iraq witnessed the signing of a number of investment and development contracts with the public and private sectors.

A statement from the Prime Minister's Office stated that under the patronage and attendance of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, a celebration of the Partnership Day between the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Iraq was held in the capital, Baghdad, today, and the 20th anniversary of the corporation's presence and partnerships with the Iraqi sectors.

In a speech during the ceremony, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani pointed out the importance of the partnership with the International Finance Corporation, given the distinguished capabilities of the private sector, which has proven its effective presence in implementing reconstruction and development projects, and its ability to withstand various forms of bureaucracy, corruption and security conditions.

He explained: “Attracting foreign capital has contributed to supporting the stability of the Iraqi economy and encouraged international financial institutions, including German, Italian, French, British and Chinese institutions, to contribute to financing a significant number of development projects, in addition to providing legal and administrative frameworks and removing routine obstacles, which creates more job opportunities.

During the ceremony, the following contracts were signed in partnership and financing with the IFC:

■ A contract to invest in associated gas and develop Umm Qasr port facilities, with Basra Gas Company, worth $500 million.

■ A contract to finance and expand the production of cement and lubricating oils, with Al-Muhaidib Group, worth $250 million.

■ A contract to finance container handling equipment and the storage yard in Umm Qasr port, with Al-Lorraine Investment Company, worth $125 million.

■ A contract for the first phase of the green residential real estate development project in Sulaymaniyah, with Hiwa Rauf Investment Company, worth $65 million.

■ A contract to finance a credit line to finance international trade. With the Bank of Baghdad, worth $10 million.

■ An investment partnership agreement to establish sustainable agricultural and industrial projects with Sama Al-Manar/Teriyaki Agro Company, worth $120 million.

■ A partnership agreement to establish a teaching hospital worth $250 million, with Rabban Al-Safina Companies, and a partnership agreement with Al-Ula Company for Financing Small and Medium Enterprises for advisory services and developing investment attraction. /End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1251636

Gold Prices Rise To Record Levels

Economy | 09:21 - 09/13/2025  Mawazine News - Follow-up:  Gold prices achieved gains for the fourth week, supported by expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut and amid increasing inflows into gold-backed exchange-traded funds.

The price of gold surpassed $3,650 per ounce, an increase of nearly 2%, this week, after setting a record high on Tuesday. Silver prices, which move in parallel with the yellow metal, also jumped above $42 per ounce, its highest level since 2011.

Gold prices rose 0.6% to $3,654.38 per ounce at settlement on Friday evening in Asian markets. The Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index, on the other hand, recorded a slight increase but is heading for a weekly loss of 0.3%. Palladium was also heading for weekly gains of nearly 8%, while platinum rose near $1,400 per ounce.

Data showed that US consumer prices rose as expected in August, giving Federal Reserve policymakers room to cut borrowing costs after a string of weak labor market data.

Traders expected at least a quarter-point cut at the Fed's meeting next week, with two additional cuts possible by the end of the year. Meanwhile, the US dollar and 10-year Treasury yields fell this week. The precious metal typically benefits from lower borrowing costs and yields and a weaker US currency.

Gold has jumped 39% since the beginning of the year, making it one of the best-performing commodities, outperforming other market indices such as the S&P 500. https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=266689

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

“Tidbits From TNT” Sunday Morning 9-14-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Iraq signs contracts worth more than $1 billion with IFC

The Prime Minister's Media Office announced today, Saturday, partnership and financing contracts with the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

A statement from the office, received by Al-Eqtisad News, stated that, "Under the patronage and attendance of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, a celebration was held in the capital, Baghdad, today, to mark the 20th anniversary of the IFC's presence and partnerships with Iraqi sectors."

According to the statement, the ceremony witnessed the signing of several investment and development contracts with the private and public sectors, including a $500 million contract with Basra Gas Company to invest in associated gas and develop Umm Qasr Port facilities, and a $250 million contract with Al-Muhaidib Group to finance and expand cement and lubricating oil production.

In addition to a $125 million financing contract for container handling equipment and a storage yard at Umm Qasr Port with Al-Lorrain Investment Company, and a $65 million contract for the first phase of the Green Residential Real Estate Development Project in Sulaymaniyah with Hiwa Rauf Investment Company.

A $10 million credit line financing agreement was also signed with the Bank of Baghdad to finance international trade, and an investment partnership agreement was signed to establish sustainable agricultural and industrial projects with Sama Al-Manar/Teriyaki Agro, worth $120 million.

A partnership was also signed with Captain Ship Holdings to establish a $250 million teaching hospital, and a partnership was signed with Al-Ula SME Finance Company for advisory services and investment attraction development.  link

Tishwash:  More than 15 trillion dinars are kept in cash in the homes of citizens

The governor of the Central Bank of Iraq says 80 percent of Iraq's money is in households and stresses that they are trying to increase citizens' confidence in banks.

Central Bank Governor Ali Alaq said the 2025 banking reform plan is a strategic step to strengthen confidence in the Iraqi banking system and solve problems.

He said 80 percent of Iraqi money is outside the banks and in the homes, due to lack of confidence in the banks.

He added that the banking reform plan includes updating the banking system, in line with international standards and attracting global companies.

Meanwhile, Mustafa Garawi, a member of the Finance Committee of the Iraqi Parliament, warned that this phenomenon has led to a decline in market movement and economic activity.

He revealed that; According to reports, the money held in households is more than 100 trillion dinars.

Earlier, economic researcher Haider Sheikh revealed; The Central Bank of Iraq is really suffering from a shortage of cash and flows, due to the lack of confidence in the banking system and the least trust in public and private banks, which has led many citizens to keep their money in Iraqi dinars. 

Revealed; More than 15 trillion Iraqi dinars are kept in cash in the homes of citizens and salaried employees, so the central bank and the Iraqi government should solve this problem and inflation, through the formulation of economic and financial policy and banking facilities for citizens and restore confidence.  link

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

Tishwash:  Banking reform enters a decisive phase: The Central Bank and banks are in a race against time - Urgent

To avoid penalties 

The Iraqi banking sector is going through a critical phase, where economic and financial considerations intersect with the demands of structural reform that have been postponed for years.

 After decades of challenges, and amid international and local pressure to improve the efficiency of the financial system, the reform paper launched by the Central Bank in coordination with an international consulting firm emerged as an attempt to rebuild trust and establish more robust rules for banking operations.

 The importance of this issue goes beyond the financial dimension; it extends to the broader institutional context related to the state's ability to formulate economic stability tools and meet transparency requirements, which in turn are linked to the confidence of investors and international donors.

In this context, economic expert Ahmed Abdul Rabbo, speaking to Baghdad Today, predicted that "the end of September will be the deadline for private banks to sign the final amendments to the reform paper submitted by the Central Bank of Iraq in coordination with Oliver and Iman." This timing reflects the Central Bank's awareness of the country's need to end the period of hesitation and embark on a clearly defined reform path.

According to institutional estimates, setting a timetable for signing aims to overcome the procrastination that accompanied the first rounds of dialogue with private banks and transform reform from a theoretical idea into a practical commitment.

Adjustments in response to market pressures

Recent developments indicate that the reform was not imposed unilaterally, but rather came after a series of technical discussions with banks. Abdul Rabbo explained that "the Central Bank has made extensive amendments to the banking reform paper over the past weeks in response to the comments submitted by the banks, noting that it was keen to open an extensive dialogue with Iraqi banks to clarify the technical aspects of the reform paper."

This clarification reveals a collaborative process that balances reform requirements with market pressures. According to economic estimates, the central bank's understanding of banks' comments reflects its awareness that implementing strict measures without consensus could hinder the banking system's ability to keep pace with changes. At the same time, this dialogue seeks to establish the principle of transparency and a commitment to gradualism as a means of ensuring the effectiveness of reform, consistent with similar international experiences in restructuring banking sectors.

Gradual reform with privacy in mind

The discussion is not limited to the form of reform, but also includes its pace. Abdul Rabbo pointed out "the importance of implementing reform mechanisms gradually, taking into account the specificities of Iraq's economic reality." He emphasized the need to adhere to reform in principle, while formulating standards and procedures in a way that enhances confidence in the banking sector and contributes to its development.

According to economic readings, this position reflects the traditional tension between the imperative of rapid openness to international standards and the demands of a local reality characterized by fragility and instability. Gradualism, financial experts believe, reduces the shocks to small and medium-sized banks and gives the sector sufficient time to adapt to the new regulatory environment. This makes reform not only a tool for course correction, but also a means of rebuilding the contract between the state and the private financial sector on more sustainable foundations.

The essence and dimensions of the amendments

The recent amendments raise fundamental questions about the nature of the role private banks will play. Abd Rabbuh explained that the amendments "include extending the capital requirement for banks, reconsidering the ownership structure, and abolishing the foreign partner requirement, thus providing banks with greater flexibility in implementing reforms and strengthening their role in supporting the national economy."

This change has multiple institutional dimensions. Extending the capital requirement reduces immediate financial pressure on banks, while reconsidering the ownership structure opens the door to restructuring the relationship between local shareholders and regulatory authorities.

The abolition of the foreign partner requirement reflects a shift toward enhanced independence, but it also raises questions about the ability of local banks to bridge the gap in expertise and technology typically provided by an international partner. According to economic estimates, these amendments represent an attempt to balance strengthening financial sovereignty with creating practical flexibility.

Timing and objectives of reform

Abdul Rabbuh believes that "banking reform comes at a crucial time, as Iraq seeks to enhance the banking sector's capacity to finance development and investment projects and reduce financial risks by adopting more flexible and transparent standards. The success of the reform paper represents a fundamental step toward achieving comprehensive financial stability and increasing confidence among local and international investors."

This link between reform and investment reflects that the goal is not limited to improving banking efficiency, but extends to building an environment that is attractive to capital. According to research estimates, the signals of confidence that banking reform can generate will be crucial in repositioning Iraq on the international financial map. Internal financial stability is also a prerequisite for confronting the recurring economic crises that the country has experienced over the past two decades. 

Reform as a Barrier to Sanctions and Corruption

Banking reform was not only a domestic choice; it also came in response to external pressures linked to the risks of international sanctions. The delay in adopting the required standards and the banks' slowness in complying with regulatory controls opened the door for international oversight bodies to question Iraq's ability to manage its financial sector transparently. According to financial estimates, this situation increased the likelihood of some banks being placed on watch lists or sanctions, negatively impacting the smooth flow of financial transactions and external transfers.

Economists point out that part of this crisis was linked not only to technical shortcomings, but also to the dominance of influential groups within the banking sector, who took advantage of weak oversight and widespread corruption to obstruct any serious reform attempt.

This dominance eroded international institutions' confidence in Iraq's ability to implement standards, making any delay in reform a direct threat to its economic interests. Therefore, the current reform paper should be read not only as a regulatory framework, but also as a fundamental line of defense to avoid potential sanctions and rebuild confidence in a sector that has for years been synonymous with fragility and political tensions.

Upcoming challenges and implementation prospects

Abdul Rabbo concluded by saying, "The coming weeks will witness ongoing negotiations and coordination between the Central Bank and private banks to ensure all parties agree on implementing reforms smoothly and effectively. These measures represent an opportunity to restructure the banking sector and strengthen its role in the national economy after years of financial challenges and economic fluctuations."

This statement outlines the next phase, where the debate is no longer about the feasibility of reform, but rather about the mechanisms for implementation and consensus.

According to institutional estimates, the success of these negotiations will depend on the Central Bank's ability to strike a balance between the requirements of financial discipline and the flexibility demanded by banks. The gradual conclusion indicates that what has changed is Iraq's entry into a mandatory phase of reform after a long debate.

What has not changed is the difficulty of building full consensus in a sector suffering from a long legacy of division and volatility. The expected impact is a gradual restructuring of the banking system, opening the door to enhanced confidence and stability, provided that pledges are transformed into measurable and enforceable obligations.  link

Mot: ooooh Deer!!! --- Off to See the Wizard!!!!

Mot:  The Joy of Having a Furball!!!

We’re Headed to Monetary Panic

We’re Headed to Monetary Panic

Liberty and Finance:  9-12-2025

In an era defined by digital transactions and complex financial instruments, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly constitutes “money.”

A recent compelling discussion with Phil Low on Liberty and Finance cuts through the noise, offering a stark yet insightful perspective on fundamental economic concepts, the critical role of precious metals, and the inevitable future of finance.

Low’s central premise challenges our modern assumptions: the true nature of money isn’t determined by technology, but by trust. While our digital world thrives on speed and convenience, Low argues that technology merely streamlines the transfer of credit.

And credit, fundamentally, is a promise rooted in trust. When that trust erodes, so does the credit system.

This erosion of trust isn’t a hypothetical. Low points to a recurring historical pattern: dishonest credit systems are inherently unstable and destined to collapse.

 When this happens, a “monetary panic” ensues. People, sensing the instability of their digital or paper promises, rush to convert their credit into physical, tangible money – historically, gold and silver. It’s a flight to safety, where only unencumbered, physical assets are truly trusted.

But here’s where Low offers a refreshing counter-narrative to common doomsday predictions. He asserts that the collapse of a credit system does not equate to societal collapse. Instead, it leads to a restructuring.

 In this new landscape, individuals who hold physical money – the “stackers” of gold and silver – become integral “nodes of civilization.” They possess true liquidity, enabling the revival of honest trade based on real, physical money. Low even illustrates how essential services, like power and coal supply, would organically resume through informal credit, naturally backed by physical gold. It’s a vision of resilience, not ruin.

Low also delves into the foundational economic philosophies shaping our world. He sharply dismisses traditional Keynesian macroeconomics as “junk science,” arguing it promotes heavy-handed government intervention and artificial market manipulation.

In stark contrast, he champions the Austrian School of Economics, which prioritizes free markets, individual liberty, and a positivist approach. This means observing and respecting natural market processes without interference, rather than attempting to prescribe what “should” be done (normative economics). For Low, the market will always find its equilibrium if left alone.

Perhaps the most chilling warning from Phil Low is his discussion of “The Great Taking.” This refers to a potential legal and financial event where modern financial instruments—our brokerage accounts, 401ks, and other digital assets—could be subject to confiscation or centralized control.

It’s a stark reminder of the tenuous nature of wealth held solely in digital or paper form within the existing financial architecture.

So, what’s an individual to do? Low’s advice is clear and unequivocal: prioritize physical metal ownership. Holding tangible gold and silver is paramount. Only after securing physical holdings should one consider investing in precious metals mining mutual funds, and crucially, outside of typical brokerage systems, potentially as a way to diversify a portion of one’s wealth.

Phil Low’s insights offer a powerful lens through which to view our financial future. His message isn’t one of despair, but of preparedness and understanding the fundamental truths about money and trust. As the global financial landscape continues to evolve, or perhaps, unwind, understanding these dynamics becomes not just prudent, but essential for safeguarding your financial well-being.

https://youtu.be/qqk4qTaILJo

It’s Not an Everything Bubble, it’s a Dollar Collapse

It’s Not an Everything Bubble, it’s a Dollar Collapse

Heresy Financial:  9-12-2025

Feeling like your wallet just isn’t stretching as far as it used to? Look around: from the glittering price of gold and the soaring heights of Bitcoin, to the seemingly unstoppable ascent of stocks, real estate, and yes, even your weekly grocery bill – everything seems to be at or near all-time highs.

 The narrative of an “everything bubble” is pervasive, leaving many to wonder when, not if, the whole system will come crashing down.

But what if we’ve been looking at it all wrong? What if it’s not actually an “everything bubble” at all?

A recent video from Heresy Financial offers a compelling, almost unsettling, alternative perspective: the widespread surge in prices isn’t primarily due to individual assets being overvalued, but rather a reflection of the declining purchasing power of the U.S. dollar itself.

Imagine the dollar as the universal measuring stick for value. If that stick itself is getting shorter, everything you measure with it will appear longer or larger in dollar terms. That’s the core argument.

When inflation or price increases seem to be universal, comparing assets to one another becomes misleading. The critical question shifts from “Is this asset overvalued?” to “Compared to what?”

You might point to the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the dollar’s strength against a basket of other major currencies, and note its relative stability.

 Heresy Financial explains that this stability is deceptive. It merely indicates that other fiat currencies are also losing value at similar rates globally. The DXY masks the pervasive, real inflation occurring in dollar terms.

This phenomenon isn’t new. Economist Ludwig von Mises described something eerily similar: the “crackup boom.” This occurs when people expect continuous money supply growth and rising prices. What happens then? They rush to convert their increasingly devaluing cash into real goods and assets to preserve their purchasing power.

This perfectly explains why we’re seeing both investment assets like stocks and cryptocurrencies and essential living costs like rent, food, utilities, education, and healthcare all skyrocketing simultaneously. It’s not a coincidence; it’s a behavioral response to a weakening currency.

So, how do we truly assess value if our primary currency is an unreliable ruler? The video suggests looking at a more stable, historical benchmark: gold. Unlike the dollar, gold has maintained a relatively stable purchasing power over centuries.

This perspective challenges the conventional wisdom and suggests that perhaps the issue isn’t that everything is too expensive, but that our dollars are simply buying less.

What fuels this continuous decline in the dollar’s value? Heresy Financial points directly to the U.S. money supply (M2). Following an explosive increase during the 2020-2021 period, the money supply has now reached new all-time highs and is growing at a stable but elevated rate. Lower interest rates further encourage borrowing and spending, which in turn expands the money supply and drives inflation.

Given these dynamics, a sudden, dramatic collapse of the dollar or a bursting of a universal bubble in isolation is unlikely without extreme economic upheaval. Instead, what we are witnessing is a consistent, persistent erosion of the dollar’s purchasing power – a quiet but profound transformation of our economic landscape.

The conclusion is clear: the real issue isn’t that everything is individually overvalued, but that the value of our money is steadily diminishing. In such an environment, the best defense is diversification across multiple asset classes. Holding all your wealth purely in cash becomes a losing proposition over time.

Understanding this fundamental shift in how we perceive value is crucial for navigating today’s complex economy.

TIMECODES

00:00 Is Everything in a Bubble?

00:16 The Real Problem: Your Measuring Stick

00:24 Gold, Silver & Bitcoin at All-Time Highs

01:17 Stocks & Real Estate Near Records Too

02:00 Cost of Living at Record Highs

02:50 What Past Bubbles Looked Like

03:50 The Key Question: Compared to What?

04:29 The Dollar vs Other Currencies

05:25 Mises & the Crack-Up Boom Explained

06:47 Why Assets Keep Rising in Dollars

07:20 Pricing Assets in Gold (A Better Measure)

08:27 Charts: S&P, Nasdaq, Dow & Russell in Gold

09:46 Tuition, Energy & Housing Priced in Gold

10:47 The Dollar’s Future & Money Supply Growth

12:07 Why This Isn’t a Bubble About to Pop

13:18 How to Protect Yourself From Dollar Decline

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

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Saturday Afternoon 9-13-25

Congressional Resolution Ushers In A New Era And Prevents Any Military Intervention In Iraq.

September 12, 2025  Baghdad - Qusay Munther  The US Congress' decision to revoke the 1991 and 2002 war authorizations for Iraq was widely welcomed in Baghdad as a step that reinforces the principle of sovereignty and heralds a new phase in Iraqi-American relations based on mutual respect and shared interests.

“The decision to revoke the authorization for war on Iraq is that the US Congress voted to repeal the old laws that had granted US Presidents George H.W. Bush in 1991 and George W. Bush in 2002 broad powers to wage war on Iraq without having to return to Congress every time,” legal expert Ali Al-Tamimi said in a statement yesterday.

He stressed that “the authorizations were of two basic types: the first was the 1991 authorization to launch the Gulf War to liberate Kuwait, and the second was the 2002 authorization to wage war on Iraq and topple the regime.”

He pointed out that “the decision to revoke came because Iraq was no longer under the rule of the former regime, and there were no longer legal justifications for the authorization to remain, and in order to prevent any future US president from exploiting this law to launch military operations in Iraq or the region without the approval of Congress.

” He explained that “this is also a symbolic step to improve relations with Iraq and to show that the United States is no longer at war with it.”

He went on to say that “the decision means revoking the old powers of the US president to use military force against Iraq and maintaining any operations.” Current agreements, such as military cooperation against ISIS, are under new agreements or with different approvals, and not based on the old laws of war.

The Foreign Ministry previously emphasized that the cancellation of the war authorizations represents a step towards strengthening the partnership with Washington. In a statement yesterday, it said, "Baghdad welcomes the decision, which represents a step towards strengthening the partnership and establishing the principle of respect for sovereignty.

It also reflects the development of relations with the United States." The Iraqi Embassy in Washington confirmed in a statement yesterday, “We welcome the US House of Representatives’ vote to repeal the 1991 and 2002 war authorizations.”

The statement added, “This step represents a reinforcement of the principle of sovereignty and opens a new page in the path of Iraqi-American relations based on mutual respect and common interests. We look forward to its approval soon by the Senate.

” It stressed that “Iraq views with appreciation this historic step that contributes to strengthening our country’s image as a responsible partner state.” It reiterated “the commitment to continue working with the United States to support regional stability and international cooperation, and Iraq looks forward to final approval in the Senate.”

The statement noted that “this decision is an important milestone in the development of our relations with our friends in the United States of America, and a clear message to international public opinion that Iraq is today a partner in peace and an effective voice in issues of development and shared prosperity.”

It expressed “Iraq’s hope that the Senate will translate this message into a tangible reality by approving it.”For his part, Hussein Al-Ameri, a member of the Parliamentary Security and Defense Committee, said in a statement yesterday that “the recent US Senate vote to end the authorization for the war on Iraq that was granted to the US President is a good initiative.”

He added that “Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani’s approach is different from others in dealing with foreign relations, especially with the United States of America, as Al-Sudani’s policy is characterized by transparency, and through this US legislative step, a new page can be opened with the international coalition forces to train Iraqi forces and also to arm the army.”

He stressed that “this step will lead to security and stability for Iraq in light of the war that has no known end between Russia and Ukraine, especially since stability in our region serves all parties and serves Iraq directly.

” He pointed out that “negotiation and transparency in dealing with the American side leads to stability in the region, and we in Iraq hope that there will be no disagreements or differences between neighboring countries because this affects the stability of the political, economic and security situations in the country.” LINK

Iraq intends to build an oil pipeline from Basra to the Sultanate of Oman

economy | 12/09/2025  Mawazine News - Baghdad – The State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO) confirmed on Friday that the signing of memoranda of understanding with the Sultanate of Oman stems from its strategic importance in marketing Iraqi oil, while indicating that there is discussion regarding the construction of a complete pipeline from Basra to Oman.

According to the official agency, the company's general manager, Ali Nizar Al-Shatri, said, "The signing of memoranda with the Sultanate of Oman stems from its strategic location for Iraqi crude oil and petroleum products. Oman has an outlet on the Arabian Sea and another on the Arabian Gulf at its beginning, before the Strait of Hormuz.

The result is that its presence will be closer to our crude oil customers, as most of our exports head to Asia. Therefore, Asian customers will be able to load crude oil from those locations instead of taking the long route."

He added, "There are also technical issues. The more open the waters are, the less the impact of bad weather. Meanwhile, our ports in Basra suffer from bad weather, which forces us to halt exports. Therefore, going to Oman means going to an open region, and exports from it are more stable and committed to our customers, while reducing the chances of disruption."

He pointed out that "discussions are open regarding the construction of a complete pipeline from Basra to Amman, which would achieve multiple outlets and increase export capacity, and would give Iraq the potential referred to by the Prime Minister regarding increasing quotas and production ceilings. This can only be achieved with the presence of local export and consumption capacity.

This was noted in the Prime Minister's speech regarding increasing investments in the field of refining, which is important, while export capacity depends on available export outlets."

He continued, "Oman will play a major role in this field if the pipeline and tanks, upon which the memoranda of understanding were signed, are completed, as well as the commercial process, which is not without marketing aspects.

The result is that when oil is stored in Amman, there is a cost that was incurred, and this cost must be recovered. Iraq needs additional profits to recover the costs, and this can only be achieved through commercial integration."

Al-Shatri explained: "This is why another memorandum of understanding was signed for trade integration between Iraq and the Sultanate of Oman, between the State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO) and OQ Trading Company, an Omani government company that has proven itself globally and internationally.

We are currently in the process of discussing the details of the contracts, because the memoranda of understanding set the general roadmap, but we need the details of the contracts to complete them."  https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=266633

Amid Fluctuating Global Oil Prices, Basra Crude Exceeds $65.

Economy | 12/09/2025  Mawazine News - Baghdad -  Iraqi oil prices recorded a slight increase during daily trading on Friday in the global market.
According to data, Basra Medium crude rose to $65.50 per barrel, while Basra Heavy crude recorded $68.60 per barrel, with a change rate of +0.46 for both.
Regarding global oil prices, British Brent crude recorded $65.90 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude recorded $65.93 per barrel, with a change rate of -0.47 and -0.44, respectively.https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=266629

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