Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Thursday Evening 9-18-25

Central Bank: 6.8 Trillion Dinars In Electronic Collections In 2025

Banks  Economy News – Baghdad  The Central Bank of Iraq revealed that the total government electronic collections through points of sale (POS) during the first eight months of 2025 exceeded six trillion dinars, while the number of employee payroll cards exceeded five million.

The Director General of the Information Technology and Payments Department at the Central Bank of Iraq, Adnan Asaad, said in an interview with Al-Sabah, followed by Al-Eqtisad News:

“The volume of government electronic collections through points of sale so far has reached more than 6.8 trillion dinars in the first eight months of this year,” expecting that “it will exceed 10 trillion dinars by the end of this year, while last year it amounted to about 9 trillion dinars, while collections from gas stations exceeded 750 billion dinars, after it was 465 billion dinars last year.”

He added, "Total government e-collection through various payment instruments has reached approximately 2.1 trillion dinars, while last year it reached approximately 322 billion dinars," noting that "49 ministries and agencies have approved the deployment of e-payment instruments in more than 6,600 formations."

Asaad continued, "The number of domiciled employee cards has reached approximately 5.6 million, while the value of the use of electronic payment systems for real-time settlement has exceeded 200 trillion dinars. Automated clearing has exceeded 35 trillion dinars, and the national switchboard has recorded approximately 20 trillion dinars."

The bank's Director General of Information Technology and Payments explained that "these figures for 2025 reflect the continued expansion in the adoption of electronic payment channels and the development of its infrastructure, in line with the Central Bank's strategic directions and the government's national plans to enhance financial inclusion and digital transformation in Iraq." 09/17/2025 -   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=60147

Trade Bank Of Iraq Launches Direct Delivery Service For Electronic Cards

Banks  Economy News – Baghdad  The Trade Bank of Iraq announced today, Thursday, the launch of a direct delivery service for electronic cards.

A statement from the bank, received by Al-Eqtisad News, stated that "to facilitate customers, it has been decided to activate the direct delivery service for electronic cards."

The bank added, "We announce the activation of the electronic card delivery service in Baghdad and all governorates to ensure their safe and timely arrival." https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=60184

Electronic Payment In Iraq: Major Strides, Challenges Ahead

Banks   Iraq is witnessing rapid transformations in the structure of its financial systems, with increasing reliance on electronic payment methods instead of direct cash transactions. This transition is not merely a technical update; it represents a fundamental step toward building a more transparent economy capable of keeping pace with changes in regional and global markets.

From Cash To Card

The Central Bank of Iraq's recent announcement that the number of domiciled employee cards has reached 5.6 million clearly indicates the depth of the ongoing transformation. After years of near-total reliance on cash, large segments of Iraqis—employees and retirees alike—now rely on electronic cards as their primary means of receiving their salaries and conducting transactions.

This step represents a qualitative shift in a country that has long been a prisoner of cash liquidity, with large salaries paid in cash, straining the banking system and increasing security and economic risks.

Leadership And The Role Of Local Companies

Among the companies that pioneered this transformation, Qi Card emerged as the first electronic payments company in Iraq, laying the foundation for a national experience in financial technology. The company launched with a basic service, payroll localization, but has gradually transformed into a major player providing multiple payment and financing services.

Despite the challenges it faced operating in a challenging environment, K-Card's presence helped boost users' confidence in digital services and provided access to groups in villages and rural areas, making electronic payments a part of daily life for a growing segment of Iraqis.

Expansion Of Services

The development did not stop at issuing cards, but included the introduction of services such as:

Biometric update to ensure accuracy of user data.

Electronic advance systems that provide urgent liquidity.

Installment services in universities, hospitals and retail stores.

Point of sale (POS) devices are widespread in markets and shops.

These services have enhanced the added value of the electronic payment sector and connected consumers more deeply to the formal financial system.

User Experience...The Most Important Indicator

The decisive factor in the success of electronic payments was not the number of cards but rather user satisfaction. Employees or retirees who once had to wait hours in bank lines are now able to receive their salary via card quickly and securely.

This user experience has directly impacted the service's popularity. The smoother the process, the higher the uptake. However, challenges still exist in some areas due to poor communications infrastructure or a lack of financial awareness.

Private Sector And Government Orientation

The widespread adoption of electronic payment is not limited to government employees. The government has adopted a clear policy to deploy point-of-sale (POS) devices in various markets, including the private sector, to expand the user base and reduce cash transactions.

Payment companies have responded to this policy by offering cards and services that operate both inside and outside Iraq, giving consumers greater flexibility and putting Iraq on the path to integration into the global financial system.

Figures And Facts

The number of electronic payment cards in Iraq has exceeded 12 million cards.

Thousands of POS devices are now widespread in the market.

A large segment of universities and institutions now rely on digital installment systems.

These figures reflect the magnitude of the change, but they also indicate the extent of the work required to secure infrastructure and update legislation.

New Technology And Applications

With the growing demand for digital solutions, applications like SuperKey have emerged, combining payments, transfers, and government services into a single platform.

These applications not only facilitate financial transactions, but also offer a practical model for integration between the public and private sectors, through services such as paying water and electricity bills or paying government fees electronically.

Challenges That Cannot Be Ignored

Despite these successes, the sector faces a number of challenges, most notably:

Lack of financial awareness among some users, which hinders full access to services.

Internet services are intermittent in some areas, limiting operational stability.

The need for more flexible legislation to keep pace with the development of financial technology.

Competing with traditional banks that still maintain a portion of their cash share.

Towards An Integrated Digital Economy

The success of electronic payment goes beyond facilitating transactions; it also serves as a tool for combating corruption, reducing tax evasion, and promoting financial inclusion. The data generated from millions of transactions represents a wealth of information that can help decision-makers formulate more accurate economic policies.

Iraq's e-payment experience is a growing success story, but it still requires strengthening its infrastructure, developing legislative frameworks, and intensifying financial literacy programs. Between the regulatory role of the Central Bank, investments by local companies like Qi Card, and government efforts to expand the sector, a clear path is taking shape toward a digital economy that could be one of the most prominent features of Iraq's economic development over the next decade. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=60186

New Drop In Gold Prices In Baghdad

Stock Exchange  Economy News – Baghdad   Iraqi and foreign gold prices fell slightly on Thursday in local markets in the capital, Baghdad.

Gold prices in the wholesale markets on Al-Nahr Street in the capital, Baghdad, this morning recorded a selling price of one mithqal of 21 karat Gulf, Turkish and European gold at 736 thousand dinars, and a purchase price of 732 thousand dinars, while yesterday, Wednesday, it recorded 738 thousand dinars.

The selling price of one mithqal of 21-karat Iraqi gold reached 706,000 dinars, and the buying price was 702,000 dinars.

As for gold prices in jewelers' shops, the selling price of a mithqal of 21-karat Gulf gold ranges between 740,000 and 750,000 dinars, while the selling price of a mithqal of Iraqi gold ranges between 710,000 and 720,000 dinars.     https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=60185

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

30-50% Market Crash Incoming, Trillions will be Erased

30-50% Market Crash Incoming, Trillions will be Erased

Commodity Culture:  9-17-2025

Are you feeling the squeeze? The rising cost of living, the persistent worry about the future – you’re not alone. And according to one financial expert, things could be set for a much bigger shift than many realize.

In a recent, highly illuminating discussion on Commodity Culture, financial analyst Michael Pento joined host Jesse Day to deliver a sobering message.

Pento isn’t just seeing a few frayed threads in the economic fabric; he’s sounding the alarm on a “multitude of epic bubbles” that he believes are poised for a catastrophic burst.

Perhaps the most chilling aspect of Pento’s warning concerns the backbone of our society: the middle class. Already grappling with persistent inflation eroding purchasing power and wage growth that stubbornly refuses to keep pace, the middle class, Pento argues, is being “completely crushed into poverty.”

This economic pressure cooker has a direct and dangerous link to the credit markets. As everyday families struggle to make ends meet, their ability to service debt diminishes, creating a critical vulnerability in the entire system.

According to Pento, the real danger isn’t merely a slow leak; it’s a catastrophic rupture, beginning with a collapse in the credit markets. This isn’t just about banks; it’s about the lifeblood of commerce and personal finance.

 Once credit seizes up, the dominoes fall swiftly, leading to an estimated 30 to 50% crash in the stock market.

And here’s where Pento’s forecast becomes truly grim: he estimates that this kind of market correction could take decades to fully recover. This isn’t a quick dip and rebound; it’s a long, arduous journey back to financial stability, profoundly impacting retirement plans, investments, and overall economic well-being for generations.

Pento’s insights on Commodity Culture paint a picture of significant economic upheaval. While such predictions can be unsettling, understanding the potential landscape is the first step toward navigating it. In times of economic uncertainty, knowledge truly is power.

For a deeper dive into Michael Pento’s detailed analysis, the driving forces behind these bubbles, and what it all means for your financial future, we highly recommend watching the full discussion from Commodity Culture.

Arm yourself with information, understand the risks, and prepare for what could be a very different economic horizon.

https://youtu.be/iC6WPw-Dsnc

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Thursday Afternoon 9-18-25

Prime Minister: The Government Attaches Great Importance To The Work Of Major Oil Companies In Iraq, Especially American Ones

Thursday, September 18, 2025, | Politics Number of readings: 154   Baghdad / NINA / Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani stressed: "The government attaches great importance to the work of major oil companies, especially American ones, in Iraq.

A statement by his media office said: "Al-Sudani received, today, Wednesday, the Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of the American company Halliburton, specialized in the oil sector and energy technology, Jeff Miller, and his accompanying delegation."

Al-Sudani stressed during the meeting: "The government attaches great importance to the work of major oil companies, especially American ones, in Iraq, to ​​develop the energy sector, raise the efficiency of production operations, and achieve the desired aspirations."

He urged Halliburton to expand service centers in Iraq for various engineering specialties, and establish research centers to support technological development for drilling and reclamation operations, as well as open training centers to develop human capabilities and localize some industries, including the production of chemicals for drilling and production and the manufacture of oil equipment for drilling purposes and submersible pumps.

For his part, Jeff Miller expressed his thanks to the Prime Minister for the continuous support to complete the work, and expressed the company's readiness and desire to reach an agreement with the Ministry of Oil to sign a development contract Bin Omar and Sinbad fields in Basra Governorate, with the aim of producing gas, employing Iraqi cadres, and localizing the oil industry. /End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1252603

The Minister Of Oil Affirms The Government's Support For The Iraq Investment Forum

Buratha News Agency1832025-09-18  Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Oil, Hayan Abdul-Ghani, reviewed preparations for the Iraq Investment Forum on Thursday, stressing the government's support for the forum to attract foreign capital.

A ministry statement said, "Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Oil, Hayan Abdul-Ghani, met with a delegation from the preparatory committee for the Iraq Investment Forum, headed by Ibrahim Al-Masoudi Al-Baghdadi, Chairman of the Iraqi Economic Council and member of the preparatory committee."

The statement added, "The Council Chairman provided a detailed explanation of the dialogue session on the Ministry of Oil, which is scheduled to be chaired by the Minister of Oil on September 27. During the meeting, investment opportunities presented by the Ministry of Oil were discussed, aiming to attract investment in the oil and gas sector and petroleum industries."

The statement continued, "During the meeting, logistical preparations and preparations related to sending invitations to the relevant ministers, including the Turkish and Lebanese oil ministers, were discussed."

The Minister also affirmed his "keenness to support the forum, which reflects the government's drive to stimulate the national economy and attract foreign capital."

The statement also noted that "the meeting was attended by the Executive Director of the Economic Council, Thabet Kazim Al-Safi, the Assistant Director General of the Economic Department at the National Investment Commission, Hussein Ali Kanbar, and Hazem Al-Shammari from the Media and Public Relations Department."  https://burathanews.com/arabic/economic/465323

Government Advisor: The Iraqi Economy Urgently Needs To Diversify And Move Away From Its Oil Dominance.

Time: 2025/09/18 19:22:03 Reading: 210 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} The Prime Minister's economic advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, confirmed that the Iraqi economy faces fundamental challenges due to its overreliance on crude oil exports.

Saleh told Al Furat News Agency, "The Iraqi economy is one of the most rentier economies in the world, with oil revenues accounting for more than 90% of public revenues and nearly 60% of the gross domestic product."

He explained that "this fragile structure makes the economy highly vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices, which hinders the achievement of comprehensive and sustainable development."

Saleh called for "the necessity of adopting serious and effective policies to diversify sources of revenue and reduce dependence on oil," noting that "diversification opportunities require continuous, long-term planning."

The economic advisor highlighted promising sectors as drivers of non-oil growth, foremost among them the agricultural sector, where Iraq boasts fertile lands and water resources. He noted that "this sector can play a pivotal role in achieving food security and reducing imports, particularly so-called virtual water, which is the import of food from countries that source our country's water resources."

Saleh emphasized the importance of manufacturing industries, particularly food, textiles, petrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals, which have the potential for rapid growth, in addition to infrastructure-related industries.

He pointed out that there are "significant opportunities to revive stalled industrial cities, and that effective implementation of the Development Road Project strategy will represent a strategic focus for comprehensive development, including the revival of major industrial cities."

He pointed out that "Iraq's geographical location gives it a pivotal regional role in global trade connectivity," stressing that "the Grand Faw Port project represents the beginning of a major strategic opportunity to diversify the national economy."

Saleh concluded his remarks by noting that Iraq is "an undisputed destination for religious and cultural tourism," emphasizing the importance of the country entering the digital age and capitalizing on the tremendous opportunities available in digital technology, such as electronic payments and e-commerce. LINK

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Afternoon 9-18-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

BRICS Expansion in 2025 Shapes Future of World Order, US on Edge

The rapid growth of BRICS membership signals a seismic realignment in global governance and finance, challenging U.S. dominance.

Membership Numbers Reach Historic Levels
The BRICS expansion map has now engineered inclusion of eleven full members after Saudi Arabia completed its membership in July 2025, integrating Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE, and Indonesia across several key strategic partnerships.

Over 23 nations have formally applied for membership while another 28 have expressed interest, spanning every continent through major diplomatic initiatives.

The alliance has also established nine partner countries including Belarus, Malaysia, Nigeria, and Thailand. Vietnam joined as a strategic partner while Colombia announced accession intentions, demonstrating continued momentum in BRICS expansion.

Trump Threatens Future Relations
President Trump has escalated tensions by threatening 100% tariffs on BRICS members over what he calls “anti-American policies.” The administration also added 10% tariff threats in July 2025, creating diplomatic friction across multiple channels.

Brazilian President Lula da Silva responded firmly during the 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro:

“We are witnessing an unprecedented collapse of multilateralism.”

He also warned that the world “does not want an emperor,” criticizing increased military spending and decreased development assistance.

Global Reach Expands Rapidly
The BRICS expansion map has reshaped geographical diversity. European applicants include Turkey, Serbia, and Belarus, despite Western pressure. Asian and African hopefuls include Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Morocco, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe.

Looking ahead, BRICS expansion 2026 is expected to include clearer membership criteria and optimized partner-state frameworks, creating a pathway for gradual integration.

India’s Strategic Position Strengthens
India is leveraging its unique position between Western democracies and emerging economies. The country has secured access to major energy suppliers and new trade partnerships with Egypt and Ethiopia, boosting energy security and export markets.

According to the U.S. Institute of Peace, India views BRICS as a platform to promote global leadership, strategic autonomy, and a multipolar world order.

Financial Cooperation Advances
At the July 2025 Rio Summit, BRICS nations issued three finance-related declarations:

• Support for IMF quota reforms

• Backing of the UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation

• Launch of a new multilateral guarantee mechanism via the New Development Bank (NDB)

The NDB continues financing infrastructure projects across BRICS nations, while pilot programs for the new mechanism are expected in 2026.

Global Impact Reshapes Order
BRICS expansion has catalyzed a turning point in international relations. Member countries are demanding greater IMF quotas, representation for emerging economies, and reform of Western-dominated institutions.

The bloc has positioned itself as the voice of developing nations, accelerating a multipolar global system.

Implications for Global Finance

BRICS expansion accelerates the move away from Western-centric financial systems. With new members including major energy exporters and large consumer markets, the bloc is building the foundation for settlement systems that bypass the U.S. dollar.

Tokenization, de-dollarization, and the New Development Bank’s new multilateral guarantee mechanism together set the stage for alternative financing models that challenge the IMF and World Bank.

Impact on the U.S. Dollar System

Trump’s tariff threats underscore Washington’s fear that BRICS could undermine the dollar’s dominance. As more nations apply for membership, the bloc’s combined economic power grows, making dollar alternatives — including gold-backed trade settlements and regional currency swaps — more viable.

If BRICS expands its financial frameworks effectively, U.S. sanctions and tariffs may lose potency in global trade enforcement.

Strategic Outlook

• Short Term (2025–2026): Membership grows, partner-state models expand, and BRICS finance declarations begin implementation.

• Medium Term (2027–2029): BRICS-led institutions rival IMF/World Bank in development lending, with tokenized settlement systems gaining traction.

• Long Term (2030 and beyond): The bloc’s structural reforms could mark the end of unilateral Western dominance in global governance.

Why This Matters
BRICS expansion in 2025 is not only a diplomatic milestone but a financial restructuring event that challenges the U.S.-led order. The implications span global trade, capital markets, and monetary systems.

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

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Watcher.Guru

~~~~~~~~~

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Morning 9-18-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Fed Cuts Interest Rates by a Quarter Point, Tees Up Two More Cuts in 2025

The Federal Reserve shifts to rate cuts, signaling concern for jobs over inflation — and the global implications are bigger than just politics.

A Policy Shift at the Fed
In a widely expected decision, the Federal Reserve lowered interest rates by a quarter point. Chair Jerome Powell emphasized that weakening labor markets now outweigh inflation risks, signaling a turn in strategy. This sets up two additional cuts later in 2025, putting the U.S. on a clear easing path.

While the move was modest, it represents a broader pivot. The Fed is openly prioritizing employment stability even as the economy grows modestly and trade uncertainties mount under Trump’s tariff push. Markets responded positively, with the Dow surging 400 points.

Trump’s Influence and Fed Independence
President Trump has been vocal in demanding more aggressive cuts and has already positioned his allies within the Fed. His efforts to reshape the institution raise questions about central bank independence. With further cuts on the table, Trump’s hand in monetary policy is increasingly evident.

Economic Outlook
The Fed projects GDP growth at 1.6% for 2025, rising slightly through 2027. Unemployment is forecast to edge up to 4.5% before stabilizing, while inflation is expected to gradually ease toward the 2% target. Consumers may see relief in borrowing costs, but savers will feel the squeeze as returns on deposits and money markets decline.

Why It’s More Than Politics

The Fed’s pivot is not just about domestic economic management — it shows how U.S. monetary policy is now entangled with Trump’s broader trade and tariff agenda. Cutting rates while tariffs disrupt global supply chains reflects a deeper struggle: keeping the U.S. dollar strong and competitive in a shifting international order.

Proof of Global Finance Restructuring

Central bank rate cuts signal to the world that the U.S. is willing to stimulate growth at the expense of traditional inflation discipline. This reshaping of priorities ties into the global reset narrative — where economic stability is increasingly pursued through coordinated monetary adjustments rather than old inflation-first doctrines. The Fed’s move could accelerate demand for alternative systems, including digital assets and gold-backed reserves.

Implications for De-Dollarization & Global Reset

• Lower U.S. rates make dollar assets less attractive globally, pushing investors toward gold, commodities, and even BRICS-led settlement currencies.

• Trump’s pressure on the Fed underscores political risk in U.S. monetary policy — a concern for countries already seeking alternatives to dollar hegemony.

• The easing cycle may align with broader international moves toward asset-backed financial systems, giving momentum to calls for a reset in global reserve structures.

Why This Matters
The Fed’s cuts are a domestic economic response — but they ripple outward. Every shift in U.S. monetary policy recalibrates global capital flows, currency strength, and the ongoing search for alternatives to the dollar. What looks like a small cut is part of a much larger transition.

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

@ Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Source: U.S. News & World Report

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SEC Opens Floodgates for Crypto ETFs With Grayscale Approval

The SEC’s approval of Grayscale’s multi-crypto fund and new listing standards clears the way for a wave of digital asset ETFs on Wall Street.

Grayscale’s First-of-Its-Kind Fund
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved Grayscale’s Digital Large Cap Fund (GDLC) to trade as the first multi-crypto exchange-traded product (ETP). The fund offers exposure to five major cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, Solana, and Cardano.

Grayscale CEO Peter Mintzberg hailed the approval as a landmark, thanking the SEC’s Crypto Task Force for “bringing the regulatory clarity our industry deserves.” The fund, valued at $57.7 per share with over $915 million under management, had previously traded over-the-counter before its conversion to an ETP on NYSE Arca.

Generic Standards: A Fast Track for Crypto ETFs
Alongside Grayscale’s win, the SEC approved generic listing standards for crypto ETFs — a move expected to accelerate dozens of applications. Under the new rules, exchanges such as Nasdaq, NYSE Arca, and Cboe BZX can list certain crypto ETFs without lengthy, case-by-case reviews.

SEC Chair Paul Atkins framed the decision as market modernization:
“By approving these generic listing standards, we are ensuring that our capital markets remain the best place in the world to engage in the cutting-edge innovation of digital assets.”

The streamlined process could unleash a wave of new crypto funds, with Bloomberg ETF analysts predicting more than 100 launches within the next year. Eligible assets include XRP, Solana, Dogecoin, Litecoin, and others with sufficient market and surveillance structures.

Balancing Opportunity and Risk
Not all commissioners were fully supportive. SEC Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw warned that looser standards could flood markets with products lacking rigorous vetting:
“The Commission is passing the buck on reviewing these proposals … in favor of fast tracking these new and arguably unproven products to market.”

Still, the broader response has been bullish, with analysts and fund managers viewing the shift as a watershed moment for institutional adoption of crypto assets.

Why It’s More Than Politics

This decision reflects more than regulatory housekeeping. By fast-tracking crypto ETFs, the SEC is legitimizing digital assets inside U.S. capital markets, linking America’s financial future to blockchain adoption. Politics may shape the rhetoric, but the real story is regulatory alignment with innovation to keep Wall Street globally competitive.

Proof of Global Finance Restructuring

The SEC’s shift shows how digital assets are becoming integrated into mainstream financial products. Crypto ETFs, once delayed and contested, are now moving into mass-market availability. This marks a restructuring of global finance: investment flows that once went into stocks and bonds are now being systematically rerouted into tokenized assets.

Implications for De-Dollarization & Global Reset

• The institutionalization of crypto ETFs may accelerate global diversification away from dollar-only reserves.

• With XRP, Solana, and other altcoins in approved funds, the U.S. is acknowledging assets that BRICS nations already see as alternatives to the dollar.

• Generic standards could be the infrastructure blueprint for tokenized commodities and CBDCs — tools that could reshape reserve systems in a global financial reset.

Why This Matters
The SEC’s dual approval of Grayscale’s multi-crypto fund and new listing standards may prove a watershed in U.S. financial history. The regulator is signaling openness to a crypto-integrated market structure — one that could both strengthen Wall Street’s dominance and simultaneously speed up global shifts away from a purely dollar-centered system.

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

@ Newshounds News™  Exclusive
Sources: The Block, Cointelegraph

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Ripple at the Core: DBS and Franklin Templeton Launch Tokenized Lending on XRP Ledger

The partnership places Ripple’s XRP Ledger at the center of a new tokenized ecosystem for global institutions.

Partnership for Tokenized Finance
DBS, Franklin Templeton, and Ripple have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to roll out tokenized trading and lending services for institutional investors. The system, built on the XRP Ledger, is designed to help investors navigate volatile markets by enabling seamless movement between stablecoins and yield-bearing funds.

DBS Digital Exchange (DDEx) will list sgBENJI, a tokenized version of Franklin Templeton’s U.S. Dollar Short-Term Money Market Fund, alongside Ripple USD (RLUSD), a stablecoin issued on the XRP Ledger. Together, the assets will allow institutions to trade and rebalance portfolios 24/7 while capturing yield opportunities.

From Trading to Tokenized Lending
In its next phase, DBS will allow clients to use sgBENJI as collateral to unlock credit, either through repo agreements with the bank or through third-party lending platforms — with DBS acting as collateral agent. Franklin Templeton will issue sgBENJI directly on the XRP Ledger, citing its speed and low fees as key advantages.

Ripple executive Nigel Khakoo called the partnership a breakthrough:
“Investors can move between a stablecoin and a tokenized fund within a single, trusted ecosystem, unlocking real-world capital efficiency, utility and liquidity that institutions demand.”

Institutional Adoption on the Rise
Demand for such products is growing quickly. A recent survey by Coinbase and EY-Parthenon showed 87% of institutional investors expect to allocate to digital assets by 2025. Tokenization, in particular, is gaining traction as banks and asset managers look for blockchain-native solutions that maintain regulatory clarity.

Cross-Border Ambitions
The collaboration also dovetails with broader global experiments in tokenized banking. SBI Shinsei Bank, Singapore’s Partior, and Japan’s DeCurret DCP recently announced work on multicurrency tokenized deposits for real-time, cross-border settlement. DBS’s move positions it as a bridge between regional experiments and institutional adoption.

Why It’s More Than Politics

Ripple’s XRP Ledger is now being embedded in institutional financial architecture — not as a fringe experiment, but as the infrastructure for tokenized money markets and collateral lending. This is a transformation of core capital flows, where blockchain becomes the operational standard.

Proof of Global Finance Restructuring

• Money market funds — the backbone of short-term U.S. dollar liquidity — are now tokenized on the XRP Ledger.

• DBS’s willingness to accept tokenized funds as collateral moves blockchain finance into traditional credit markets.

• Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin and sgBENJI together create a seamless pathway between stable value and yield-bearing assets — a model designed for institutional scale.

Implications for De-Dollarization & Global Reset

• Tokenized lending on XRP Ledger offers a global alternative to dollar-clearing through traditional correspondent banks.

• By placing real-world funds onchain, institutions may bypass parts of the dollar-dominated settlement system.

• Ripple’s role in powering tokenized lending infrastructure could accelerate a broader reset toward blockchain-based reserves and settlement networks.

Why This Matters
Ripple is no longer just an industry advocate or payments provider — it is now underpinning tokenized collateral and lending for some of the world’s biggest financial institutions. As DBS, Franklin Templeton, and Ripple push this forward, the transition to blockchain-based financial infrastructure is not a future possibility, but a present reality.

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

@ Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Source: Cointelegraph

~~~~~~~~~

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Follow the Gold/Silver Rate COMEX

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MilitiaMan and Crew: IQD News Update-No Going Back-New Tech-BIS-RLUSD-XRP-HEDERA

MilitiaMan and Crew:  IQD News Update-No Going Back-New Tech-BIS-RLUSD-XRP-HEDERA

9-17-2025

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=v7Qm6lhT9B4

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Evening 9-17-25

Rehabilitation Is The Cornerstone Of Reform

Economic 09/18/2025  Yasser Al-Mutawali   Amidst the reform efforts undertaken by banks, and after overcoming the obstacles of capital and time frames that represented the primary concern, a more fundamental and profound need emerges, one that penetrates the very core of daily banking operations: human resources.

No matter how robust the reform document prepared by a global company specializing in the clarity of its objectives, and no matter how precise the laws and regulations, the ability of institutions to implement them remains dependent on the human capacity that will bear these burdens and translate them into a tangible reality

Hence, it becomes imperative to enroll banking personnel at all levels, including senior bank management, in specialized training courses. This is a strategic necessity no less important than raising capital, and indeed, it is the sole guarantee of capital sustainability and growth.

A reform document aimed at enabling Iraqi banks to keep pace with changes and operate in accordance with practices in developed countries, as I mentioned, necessarily requires a staff that understands the philosophy of these changes and masters the tools used in those countries.

A bank cannot, for example, implement the Basel standards, manage its risks in a modern manner, or keep pace with the financial technology revolution with staff that have not received adequate training in these concepts, which were not even present in the old academic curricula.

Therefore, attention must be focused on the Iraqi Private Banks Association's training center, which should spearhead this developmental endeavor. This center's role should not be limited to isolated basic courses, but rather should launch an ambitious and comprehensive program that rehabilitates the banking industry from its roots. This program should include: 

First: Specialized courses in modern banking management, focusing on governance, financial and operational risk management, compliance with international and local central bank requirements, contemporary banking marketing strategies, and customer relationship management in the digital age.

Second: Workshops on digital transformations to explain the importance of shifting from traditional banking to e-banking, how to manage the digital transformation process, and how to secure digital channels and user experience, thus bridging the digital gap between Iraqi banks and their global counterparts.

Third: Intensive programs to teach AI technologies and their banking applications.

This is the core of the challenge and the opportunity. Staff must learn how to use AI to analyze big data to assess customer creditworthiness, how it works in combating financial fraud, and how it can contribute to the development of customized financial products and process automation to reduce costs and increase efficiency. Investing time and money in building modern skills for banking sector workers is an investment to ensure the success of any reform document, now and in the future.

It is the guarantee against the double-digit losses that experts have warned against, because a qualified staff is the one who will avoid costly mistakes, face changes with confidence, and ensure that reform is real and fundamental, not merely superficial and based on paper.

The upcoming challenge is not just financial or legal, but primarily educational, technical, and human. Neglecting this aspect will render any achievement in terms of capital or laws fragile.

Therefore, the moral and professional responsibility we bear compels us all to demand that the training and qualification of human resources be the primary focus of the next phase of the reform journey, so that the project is completed and bears the desired fruits for the country's economy.

If there is one word that must be said, it is that the Association and its center have the ability to attract highly qualified training competencies with proven experience.   https://alsabaah.iq/120743-.html

Central Bank: 5.6 Million Cards For State Employees
 
September 17, 2025   Baghdad/Iraq Observer    The Central Bank of Iraq revealed on Wednesday that the  number of employee cards with domiciled salaries has   reached approximately 5.6 million cards.
 
Adnan Asaad, Director General of the  Information Technology and Payments Department   at the Central Bank of Iraq, said,
 
“The number of domiciled employee cards has  reached approximately 5.6 million cards,” indicating that “the volume of government electronic collections via points of sale so far has reached more than 6.8 trillion dinars in the  first eight months of this year,” expecting that  “it will exceed 10 trillion dinars by the end of this year, while   last year it amounted to approximately 9 trillion dinars.” 

 He explained that "the total government e-collection through various payment instruments  amounted to approximately 2.1 trillion dinars, while  last year it amounted to approximately 322 billion dinars," noting that "49 ministries and agencies have  approved the deployment of e-payment instruments  in more than 6,600 formations," according to the government-owned Al-Sabah newspaper.    https://observeriraq.net/البنك-المركزي-5-6-ملايين-بطاقة-لموظفي-ال/  

Associated Gas: A Qualitative Leap In Iraq's Economic Capabilities

Economic  09/18/2025   Baghdad: Morning  The Ministry of Oil's announcement of the production of 220 million standard cubic feet per day of associated gas from the West Qurna field is of great importance as it is part of the government's efforts to reduce waste from this important resource and provide clean energy for power plants and factories. The expansion of the West Qurna field will provide electricity production with 250 megawatts by 2027.

Furthermore, reducing and eventually halting flaring will support self-sufficiency, contribute to increasing job opportunities, developing infrastructure, and reducing the negative environmental impacts of flaring.  

In a picture confirming the government's insistence on fully exploiting energy resources, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani sponsored, last Sunday, the signing ceremony of contracts for the implementation of several major projects within the "Integrated Gas Development Project" (GGIP) in the Artawi field in Basra Governorate, which includes the production of oil, gas and clean energy.

The Joint Operating Agreement (JOA) was signed between the Ministry of Oil, the French company Total, the Basra Oil Company and Qatar Gas Company, in the presence of the Qatari Minister of Energy Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi, the CEO of the French company TotalEnergies Patrick Pouyanné, the Chairman of the Board of the Turkish company Enka Mehmet Tara, the Vice President of the Chinese company (CPECC) Liu Kai, and the Chief Operating Officer of the Korean company Hyundai Ryu Sunga, in the presence of the Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and the Minister of Oil.

Meanwhile, Hatem Abdul Imam, Director of the West Qurna 2 Development Authority at the Basra Oil Company, affiliated with the Ministry of Oil, said in a statement carried by the Iraqi News Agency (INA):

“The current production of associated gas from the Mushrif reservoir is approximately 220 million standard cubic feet per day, of which 180 million cubic feet are supplied to Total as part of its contractual obligations, while the remainder is used to operate the field’s internal facilities.”

This achievement is a significant economic factor, according to several experts, who commended the government's efforts to exploit natural resources. Industrial development expert Amer Al-Jawahiri emphasized this, explaining that "investment in gas has clear positive effects on the economic and investment sectors in particular, especially since the business environment in Iraq has become attractive to global investment companies."

Al-Jawahiri added, in an interview with Al-Sabah, that “reaching actual implementation of gas investment, after years of delay, is extremely important, and we will actually achieve full gas investment in Iraq within a few years. He indicated that this would have major financial benefits for the country, in addition to its positive environmental impact.”

System Stability

Al-Jawahiri pointed out that this approach will achieve stability in the electricity system by providing the necessary quantities of gas to operate the stations. It will also support the country's treasury by reducing expenditures on importing gas from outside Iraq. He noted that gas investment enhances Iraq's financial revenues, especially given the political will to maximize the benefits of all resources.

Integrated Development Project

For his part, economic expert Asaad Al-Rubaie considered investment in associated gas a project of paramount importance to the economy, given that it is a rentier economy that relies primarily on oil as a source of support for the federal budget.

He explained that it is an integrated development project that links gas investment, reducing its imports, providing electricity, supporting the industrial sector, and providing huge sums to the state's public treasury.

Associated Gas Investment

Al-Rubaie told Al-Sabah: “Investing in associated gas is almost the only project that has multiple benefits associated with it. From a financial perspective, it will save us billions of dollars that were spent on importing gas from abroad, and it will also enable us to manufacture, sell and export it abroad.

 He pointed out that this process will support revenues and provide hard currency, and this money will be directed towards development plans to support other sectors.

In addition, it will increase Iraq’s capacity to produce electricity and dispense with importing it to feed gas stations.

Providing Job Opportunities

The spokesman explained that the stability of the electrical power supply is the cornerstone of any industrial project that relies on modern mechanization, which will increase the chances of establishing various projects that will support the general budget, diversify sources of income and provide many job opportunities for young people.

He pointed out that Iraq is one of the countries that signed the Paris Climate Agreement in 2015, and this investment will reduce the quantities of gas flaring that have greatly harmed the environment.

This is in compliance with this agreement and an improvement of Iraq’s image in international forums in the environmental field, and opens the doors to investment in energy. 

Green.

Stop Gas Flaring

Al-Rubaie continued, saying that stopping the flaring of gas will pave the way for the launch of transformational and strategic industries in the future, such as petrochemical plants, fertilizers, plastics and synthetic rubber industries, adding that investing in associated gas has many other economic benefits and impacts that are attributed to the direction of the current government headed by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, which has begun investment operations for associated gas and signed a number of agreements with various international companies to stop the waste of wealth. 

The country.  https://alsabaah.iq/120742-.html  Rehabilitation Is The Cornerstone Of Reform

Economic 09/18/2025  Yasser Al-Mutawali   Amidst the reform efforts undertaken by banks, and after overcoming the obstacles of capital and timeframes that represented the primary concern, a more fundamental and profound need emerges, one that penetrates the very core of daily banking operations: human resources.

No matter how robust the reform document prepared by a global company specializing in the clarity of its objectives, and no matter how precise the laws and regulations, the ability of institutions to implement them remains dependent on the human capacity that will bear these burdens and translate them into a tangible reality.

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

Global Debt Crisis Erupts Threatening Massive US Selloff

Global Debt Crisis Erupts Threatening Massive US Selloff

Taylor Kenny:  9-16-2025

Something profound is stirring in the global financial markets, and it’s not just another economic blip. We’re witnessing a transformative shift in the global bond market – one that could fundamentally reset our monetary system and deeply impact the value of the US dollar, along with your financial future.

This isn’t just financial jargon; it’s a looming reality that affects everything from your mortgage rates to the stability of your savings.

Across the globe, from Washington D.C. to Tokyo, long-term government bond yields are climbing. This isn’t isolated to one region; it’s a synchronized movement signifying serious economic consequences beyond routine market fluctuations.

Higher yields mean higher borrowing costs for governments, businesses, and ultimately, you. Think elevated mortgage rates, pricier credit cards, and increased business credit costs, all of which can dampen economic growth and stock market valuations.

A key driver of this seismic shift stems from an unexpected corner: Japan. For decades, Japan maintained ultra-low bond yields through aggressive bond-buying and “yield curve control” policies. But that era is ending. Japan is retreating from these policies, causing its bond yields to rapidly soar to levels not seen since the 1990s.

Why does Japan matter so much? Because Japan is the largest foreign holder of US debt. As Japanese bond yields rise, the narrowing gap between their bonds and US Treasuries makes US debt less attractive for Japanese investors.

This threatens the crucial demand for US Treasuries, potentially forcing Japanese investors to pull funds from US debt holdings. The implications for the US dollar and its stability are immense.

A desperate US government might then pressure the Federal Reserve to intervene by buying government debt, a move historically associated with sparking severe inflation.

We’ve already seen a preview of this fragility. The 2024 yen carry trade unwind, where investors rapidly reversed positions in yen-funded, higher-yielding assets, caused a sharp sell-off in US assets and significant volatility in Treasury yields. It was a stark warning of the interconnectedness and vulnerability of our current system.

Despite central banks hinting at potential rate cuts due to weakening labor markets, inflation continues to accelerate. This creates a contradictory and dangerous economic environment prone to stagflation – a toxic combination of stagnant growth, high inflation, and rising unemployment, eerily reminiscent of the challenging 1970s.

The current behavior of the bond market, where yields rise despite central bank efforts to keep them down, signals a “broken illusion” and a fundamental structural reset in the global financial system. The old rules are breaking down, and a new financial era is dawning.

CHAPTERS:

 0:00 Global Bond Market Warning

1:53 Japan Dumps Treasuries

4:01 Yen Carry Trade Unwind

 6:26 Welcome Back Stagflation

8:15 Gold’s Next Big Move?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYti_V2T4bQ

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Wednesday Morning 9-17-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

U.S. House Reattaches Anti-CBDC Bill to CLARITY Act Ahead of Senate Review

Lawmakers push to block a Federal Reserve digital dollar by embedding anti-CBDC language into the broader crypto market structure bill.

What’s Happening Now
The U.S. House has reattached provisions from the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act (H.R. 1919) to the CLARITY Act (H.R. 3633) before sending it to the Senate for review. The move combines two major pieces of legislation:

• The CLARITY Act: Seeks to establish a clear regulatory framework for digital assets, defining oversight responsibilities between the SEC and CFTC.

• The Anti-CBDC Act: Prohibits the Federal Reserve from issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) to individuals or creating retail Fed accounts.

By embedding the CBDC ban inside the broader, more likely-to-pass CLARITY Act, lawmakers are raising the odds that these restrictions make it through Senate negotiations.

Implications for CBDC Development
If enacted, the anti-CBDC provisions would create legal barriers to a digital dollar. The Federal Reserve would face restrictions on directly offering digital currency to the public, severely limiting potential CBDC designs. Any future attempt would either require new exemptions (such as for national security) or a significantly scaled-back version of a digital dollar.

Regulatory Clarity for Crypto
The CLARITY Act itself provides long-sought regulatory boundaries by clarifying which federal agencies have authority over crypto assets and intermediaries. For crypto firms, exchanges, and stablecoin issuers, this could reduce compliance ambiguity. However, the attachment of anti-CBDC language adds political complexity — potentially alienating moderate senators or prompting efforts to dilute the ban.

Bigger Picture: Structural Finance at Stake
This legislation is not just about crypto — it’s about the future control of money and digital infrastructure. Several dynamics stand out:

• Monetary Sovereignty vs. Surveillance: Whether the state has direct power over citizens’ wallets.

• Agency Authority: Defining long-term jurisdiction between SEC, CFTC, Treasury, and the Fed.

• Global Competition: With China, the EU, and dozens of nations advancing CBDCs, U.S. hesitation reshapes the competitive landscape for payments and standards.

• Privacy vs. Innovation: Balancing innovation in fintech with civil liberties and systemic risk.

What to Watch Next

• Senate Banking Committee’s stance: whether they keep or strip the anti-CBDC provisions.

• White House position: a veto or amendment could reshape the bill.

• Fed and Treasury response: whether they pause or adapt internal CBDC research.

• International pressure: how U.S. caution contrasts with global CBDC adoption trends.

Why This Matters
The House’s decision to pair a ban on CBDCs with a framework for digital asset regulation signals a deeper fight over who controls the future of money. Beyond politics, this is about the architecture of the U.S. and global financial system — how money is issued, who regulates it, and what privacy rights survive in the digital era.

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

@ Newshounds News™
Sources: Coingape, Congress.gov   

~~~~~~~~~

De-Dollarization Reaches Critical Phase: China’s Yuan Adoption for Cross-Border Flows Tops 50%

China’s yuan surpasses the halfway mark in cross-border trade flows, marking a milestone in global de-dollarization.

Milestone in De-Dollarization
China’s efforts to internationalize the yuan have reached a new benchmark: over 50% of national cross-border flows are now settled in yuan, according to the State Administration of Foreign Exchange. This represents a doubling of yuan usage since 2022 and underscores how China is accelerating the global shift away from dollar reliance.

While the yuan still represents less than 4% of all international trade, the momentum is undeniable. Analysts note that yuan usage is boosted by China’s Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) — its domestic alternative to SWIFT — which may even undercount true flows.

Why It’s More Than Politics
The yuan crossing 50% of China’s cross-border settlement flows shows a structural financial shift, not just a political talking point. It’s about real-world changes in how nations trade and settle debts. Politics may set the tone — sanctions, tariffs, or foreign policy uncertainty under Trump — but the deeper effect is a weakening reliance on the U.S. dollar and a growing acceptance of alternatives like the yuan.

Proof of Global Finance Restructuring
The shift is visible across multiple fronts:

• Yuan Adoption Milestone: Over 50% of Chinese cross-border flows now settled in yuan.

• SWIFT Alternative (CIPS): China’s settlement system bypasses Western financial choke points.

• Sovereign Debt in Yuan: Hungary issued $5B in panda bonds; Russia and Brazil preparing yuan-based debt.

• Reserves Shift: China cut U.S. Treasuries to a 16-year low while increasing gold purchases for 10 straight months.

These aren’t just political maneuvers; they are structural financial realignments in trade, debt, and reserves — exactly what a global reset looks like.

Implications for De-Dollarization
The U.S. dollar remains dominant, but its share is eroding at the edges. The yuan, though still under 4% of global trade, has doubled its footprint since 2022. Geopolitical pressures like sanctions and trade wars are accelerating the trend, forcing nations to transact in national or alternative currencies.

Through the Seeds of Wisdom lens, this is clear: while some frame de-dollarization as “just political fights,” in reality, the underlying economic architecture is being restructured — trade, reserves, debt, and payments.

Why This Matters
The yuan’s rise to more than half of China’s cross-border flows is more than just a trade statistic — it’s the clearest proof yet of systemic de-dollarization in action. With new debt markets, alternative payment rails, and shifting reserves, the world’s financial foundation is being remade step by step.

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

@ Newshounds News™  Exclusive  
Source: Bitcoin.com, Atlantic Council   

~~~~~~~~~

France Targets EU-Licensed Crypto Firms, Malta Opposes Centralized Oversight

EU divisions over crypto oversight highlight deeper struggles in building a unified financial system.

France Pushes for Stronger EU Crypto Oversight
France is weighing blocking crypto firms licensed in other EU countries from operating domestically, a sharp response to concerns about uneven enforcement under the EU’s new MiCA framework.

MiCA, which allows firms licensed in one member state to “passport” services across the entire EU, has exposed cracks in the system. France’s financial regulator, the AMF, argues some firms are exploiting lenient licensing regimes to bypass stricter oversight elsewhere.

France has joined Italy and Austria in calling for the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) to directly supervise major crypto firms, effectively centralizing oversight at the EU level.

AMF President Marie-Anne Barbat-Layani warned: “We do not exclude the possibility of refusing the EU passport. It’s very complex legally and not a very good signal for the single market – it’s a bit like the ‘atomic weapon’ but it’s still a possibility we hold in reserve.”

Push for ESMA Control
Supporters of ESMA oversight argue that national regulators are supervising crypto markets differently, creating inconsistencies that could harm investors. France, Italy, and Austria want direct EU supervision, stronger rules for firms outside the bloc, and tighter controls on token offerings and cybersecurity.

Malta Pushes Back
Not all member states agree. Malta, long considered an “early adopter” of digital asset regulation, opposes giving ESMA sweeping control. Its regulator, the MFSA, warned that full centralization could add bureaucracy and stifle efficiency just as Europe is competing globally in digital finance.

Earlier this year, Malta faced criticism after an ESMA review found weaknesses in its licensing process, but the country maintains that local regulators can act quickly and effectively without ceding all authority to Brussels.

Why This Matters
This fight goes far beyond a regulatory turf war. The EU is attempting to balance sovereignty, efficiency, and investor protection in a financial system where money now flows digitally across borders. France’s hardline stance, Malta’s resistance, and ESMA’s growing role are signs that the rules of global finance are being rewritten through regulation.

For the EU, how this dispute is resolved will shape whether Europe’s digital economy speaks with one unified voice or remains fragmented — a question that affects its competitiveness against the U.S. and China.

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

@ Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources: Coinpedia, Reuters   

~~~~~~~~~

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Evening 9-16-25

Economist: Iraq Does Not Have A Sovereign Wealth Fund, And Its Mission Is Handled By The Central Bank.

Time: 2025/09/16 Reading: 405 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} An economic expert confirmed that Iraq currently lacks a sovereign fund dedicated to achieving economic stability.

Salah Nouri explained to Al Furat News Agency that "the Central Bank of Iraq is currently handling the tasks of this fund."  He also pointed out that the Iraq Development Fund, which was established in 2024 with the aim of supporting economic development by attracting foreign investment, has yet to show tangible results due to its recent establishment.

In recent years, the Iraqi economic arena has witnessed intense discussions about the importance of establishing a sovereign fund entrusted with developing and investing the state's financial resources over the long term. This step comes amid the government's efforts to diversify sources of income and reduce dependence on oil as the main source of the budget.

The idea of ​​establishing this fund did not arise suddenly; rather, it goes back to the aspirations of previous governments, which were unable to bring this project to fruition.

A sovereign wealth fund is an investment fund that manages the state's financial surpluses through assets outside its borders. However, it is not affiliated with the Ministry of Finance or the Central Bank, and it differs from foreign exchange reserves.LINK

A Government Advisor Proposes Establishing A Sovereign Fund For Non-Oil Raw Materials.

Time: 2025/09/16 Reading: 525 times   {Economic: Al Furat News} Economic expert Mazhar Mohammed Saleh emphasized the importance of establishing an Iraqi sovereign fund specializing in non-oil and gas natural resources as a strategic tool to maximize added value and diversify sources of national income.

Saleh told Al Furat News Agency that this fund, which differs in its objectives from the Central Bank of Iraq's investment portfolio, which focuses on cash, will employ financial surpluses generated from raw materials such as phosphates, sulfur, and iron to develop manufacturing industries.

He stressed that the primary goal is to export semi-finished or finished products instead of raw materials, thus strengthening Iraq's position in regional markets.

The economic expert explained that the proposal is based on several fundamental principles, including maximizing local added value by investing the fund's revenues in industrial production chains, and supporting the diversification of the national economy by directing these investments toward vital sectors such as agriculture, industry, and renewable energy. He also noted that the fund will serve as sustainable financing for the general budget, reducing reliance on borrowing and deficit financing.

Saleh reviewed successful international experiences in this field, such as the Norwegian Government Pension Fund, Singapore's GIC and Temasek funds, and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority in the UAE, emphasizing the need to adopt global best practices in management, governance, and transparency.

Regarding the expected outcomes, Saleh explained that establishing the fund will reduce reliance on oil as the sole source of income, support financial stability, and attract foreign direct investment in partnership with the fund.

To realize this vision, Saleh called for urgent practical steps, including drafting a law for the fund, forming an independent founding body of experts, and incorporating the proposal into the government program and Iraq's national development vision. This will ensure the implementation of this strategic tool, which represents a cornerstone of a sustainable future economic vision. LINK

Oil Prices Stabilize Amid Potential Russian Supply Disruption

Tuesday, September 16, 2025 | Economic Number of reads: 189  Baghdad / NINA / Oil prices stabilized in early trading on Tuesday, after rising in the previous session, amid market participants' expectations of a possible supply disruption from Russia.

Brent crude futures rose 4 cents to $67.48 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude reached $63.32, up 2 cents.

Brent crude rose 45 cents at settlement on Monday to $67.44, while US West Texas Intermediate crude rose 61 cents to $63.30.

Traders are also awaiting the Federal Reserve meeting, in which the US central bank is widely expected to cut interest rates. Lower borrowing costs could boost fuel demand. /End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1252123

Al-Mandlawi Stresses The Importance Of Consolidating The Strategic Relationship Between Baghdad And Washington.

Tuesday, September 16, 2025, 2:40 PM | Politics Number of reads: 361 
Baghdad / NINA / First Deputy Speaker of Parliament Mohsen Al-Mandalawi Al-Mandalawi stressed the importance of consolidating the strategic relationship between Baghdad and Washington.

His media office said in a statement, "Al-Mandlawi received today, Tuesday, the Chargé d'Affaires of the US Embassy in Baghdad, Joshua Harris, and his accompanying delegation, to discuss ways to enhance bilateral relations between Iraq and the United States, and to discuss the most prominent issues of common interest.

During the meeting, Al-Mandlawi stressed the importance of consolidating the strategic relationship between the two countries on the basis of mutual respect and common interests, stressing the need to expand areas of cooperation to serve the stability and prosperity of Iraq, and support development and reform efforts.

The statement added, "The current regional and international developments were reviewed, as Al-Mandlawi stressed the importance of continuing dialogue and coordination to confront the security and political challenges in the region, and working together to prevent the escalation of conflicts and achieve stability.

The First Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives called on the international community, especially the United States, to exert serious and effective pressure on the Zionist entity in order to end the suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza, who are subjected daily to policies of starvation, forced displacement and a systematic war of extermination, stressing that Iraq's position is firm in defending the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and supporting their just causes.

For his part, the US Chargé d'Affaires expressed his country's keenness to develop cooperation with Iraq in various fields and support the efforts of the House of Representatives and the Iraqi government in promoting stability and development, pointing to Iraq's active role in consolidating regional and international security, and affirming its position as a responsible partner in supporting stability and peace. /End  https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?Key=1252187

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

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Afternoon 9-16-25

The Shadow Economy in Numbers: Tons of Gold Worth Billions of Dollars to Make Up for the "Black Dollar" Shortage

Baghdad Today – Baghdad  In a volatile economic landscape dominated by weak oversight and a fluctuating local currency, gold in Iraq has transformed from a traditional commodity into a central financial instrument, simultaneously reflecting internal crises and external conflicts.

 Figures announced for the first half of 2025 revealed imports exceeding $30 billion from five major countries, led by the UAE with $10.5 billion, followed by China with $8.8 billion, Turkey with $4.9 billion, the European Union with $3 billion, and India with $1.8 billion. Among these imports, precious metals—led by gold—were valued at $3.3 billion, confirming that this sector now occupies an exceptional position in the structure of Iraqi trade.

Given the restrictions imposed by the US Treasury Department since 2023 on bank transfers, gold has emerged as an alternative channel to compensate for the dollar shortage.

Instead of outflowing hard currency through official remittances, importing gold in large quantities has become a means of recirculating funds, whether by re-exporting it to neighboring countries such as Turkey, bartering it for Iranian goods, or even using it as an asset that can be easily liquidated away from the banking system.

According to economic estimates, gold has become a "practical cover" for dollar smuggling operations, as it is imported through official outlets but redirected through unregulated financial channels. This dual role makes the precious metal not just a commodity, but an alternative instrument that rivals the dollar in influence.

Previous data reveals that 2024 marked a shocking turning point, when the value of gold imports reached $12.5 billion, equivalent to 16% of the country's total imports. This figure is roughly equivalent to the Central Bank's entire gold reserve of $18 billion.

In the absence of accurate data on the entry points through which the gold was imported or its internal distribution mechanisms, questions have grown about the final destination of these quantities: Was it actually consumed in the local market, re-exported, or used as a barter instrument in undisclosed trade relations?

This shift is no longer a purely financial matter. In the markets, rising gold prices have directly impacted daily life. A Baghdad Today correspondent observed a widespread recession in goldsmith shops, with the price of a 21-karat gold misqal exceeding 730,000 dinars, while 24-karat gold jumped to more than 830,000 dinars, coinciding with the global price of an ounce exceeding $3,600.

These figures have prompted many young people to postpone marriage and imposed new burdens on families with the inflated dowries.

Social affairs experts warn that the phenomenon is no longer merely a market crisis, but rather a threat to the fabric of society by deepening the phenomenon of aversion to marriage and delaying the age of starting a family.

Given these facts, economic expert Manar Al-Abidi stressed that "government efforts to control imports face significant challenges, particularly with the attempt to include all goods in the reform at once.

" He called for "focusing primarily on high-value goods such as gold, and linking transactions with them to transparent electronic payment mechanisms that allow tracking of sales and purchases and identifying the ultimate beneficiary."

According to institutional estimates, automating the gold sector alone is sufficient to expose financial loopholes and close the door to its exploitation as a cover for parallel operations.

From a different perspective, economic expert Nasser Al-Kanani believes that the crisis is not limited to Iraq alone. "The recent rise in gold prices in the Iraqi market is inseparable from the global wave affecting the precious metal," Al-Kanani says, explaining that "the local market is affected by a dual effect: the movement of international stock exchanges and the dollar exchange rate on the parallel market."

This approach reveals that Iraq, despite its unique crises, remains part of a global cycle that makes gold a safe haven for investors amid escalating geopolitical tensions. He also notes that the price rise is not just a local result, but a reflection of global shocks.

In a move described as a strategic shift, Al-Kanani revealed that "Iraq's purchase of more than 20 tons of gold in one year, and its rise to seventh place globally in this field, reflects a calculated move by the Central Bank to protect the national economy from fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.

" This move, according to Al-Kanani, "gives Iraq greater flexibility in managing monetary policy, enhances confidence in the local economy, and may positively impact the value of the dinar and market stability."

 However, this path remains fraught with risks, as gold could transform from a strategic asset into an open channel if smuggling operations continue or oversight is absent.

In conclusion, gold in Iraq has transcended its status as a commodity and has become a crossroads between three possibilities: an economic buffer, a pressing social burden, and a card of political influence.

However, the lack of strict oversight also makes it an open loophole that could transform into a permanent channel for dollar smuggling or bartering with neighboring countries, away from the banking system. This exposes the country to further exposure to external pressures.

The future of this resource will not be determined by the volume of tons entering the market, but rather by the state's ability to control its flow and prevent its leakage into the shadow economy.

 This would transform it from a source of concern to an element of strength, and from a parallel tool for currency smuggling to a strategic asset that reinforces confidence in the dinar and Iraqi financial policy, according to observers.

Source: Baghdad Today Monitoring and Follow-up Department https://baghdadtoday.news/283275-.html    

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