Japan Lit the Fuse, the Yen Carry Trade Unwind will Crash the US Economy

Japan Lit the Fuse, the Yen Carry Trade Unwind will Crash the US Economy

Lena Petrova:  12-21-2025

In a significant move that is sending shockwaves across the globe, the Bank of Japan has raised its benchmark interest rate for the first time in three decades.

The 25 basis point increase to 0.75% may seem like a modest adjustment, but it marks a pivotal shift in the global financial landscape.

As we explore in this blog post, this change signals the end of Japan’s ultra-low interest rate era and the beginning of a tightening cycle that is likely to have far-reaching consequences.

For nearly 30 years, Japan’s near-zero interest rates enabled the yen carry trade, a strategy where investors borrowed cheap yen to invest in higher-yielding assets worldwide. This fueled risk-taking and liquidity in global markets, as investors sought to capitalize on the interest rate differential.

However, with the Bank of Japan’s decision to raise interest rates, the yen carry trade is now under threat. A strengthening yen and rising Japanese rates are making it more expensive to borrow yen, forcing investors to reassess their strategies.

The implications of this shift are complex and multifaceted. As Japan is the largest foreign holder of U.S. Treasury debt and holds trillions in overseas investments, the carry trade unwind could have significant repercussions for global markets, particularly in the United States.

 Rising Japanese yields may prompt the repatriation of funds, creating ripple effects across global asset markets. This could lead to a decrease in liquidity, potentially destabilizing markets and impacting asset prices.

A stronger yen is also likely to pose challenges for Japanese exporters like Toyota and Sony, as their products become more expensive in international markets.

Moreover, emerging market currencies that benefited from yen-funded carry trades are already showing signs of stress. As the carry trade unwinds, these currencies may face further pressure, potentially leading to instability in emerging markets.

While this is not an immediate crisis, the Bank of Japan’s tightening marks a regime shift that could pose a greater threat to U.S. equities and global financial stability than Federal Reserve policy.

The scale and interconnectedness of Japan’s financial footprint make this a development that investors and observers cannot afford to ignore. As the carry trade unwinds and markets adjust to a new era of higher Japanese interest rates, it is essential to monitor the evolving situation closely.

In conclusion, the Bank of Japan’s decision to raise interest rates is a significant turning point in the global financial landscape.

As the yen carry trade unwinds and markets adjust to a new reality, investors and observers must remain vigilant. To stay ahead of the curve, it is crucial to continue monitoring the situation and adjusting strategies accordingly.

https://youtu.be/1NX9hvy4XH0

“Iraq News” Posted by Clare at KTFA 12-21-2025

KTFA:

Clare: Sudani: We Have Proven Iraq’s Sovereignty to the International Community

12/20/2025

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Sudani said on Saturday that Iraq has achieved significant political and security victories in recent years and has proven its sovereignty to the international community.

"We have achieved major political and security successes, with recognition from the United Nations and the international community,” Sudani said, stressing the importance of resolving issues in accordance with the constitution and through national decisions.

He added, "We have proven to the international community that Iraq is a sovereign country, and we will continue to work within the framework of the Iraqi constitution.”

Regarding the completion of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), Sudani said the end of the mission reflects the success of Iraq’s programs and plans across most political and security fields.   LINK

Clare: The President calls for proceeding with the formation of a government that represents all Iraqis.

12/20/2025 - Baghdad

On Saturday, President Abdul Latif Rashid called for proceeding with the formation of a government that represents all Iraqis.

Rashid said during the memorial ceremony held by the National Wisdom Movement in the capital, Baghdad, on the anniversary of the assassination of Muhammad Baqir al-Hakim, head of the Supreme Islamic Council in Iraq, which was followed by Shafaq News Agency, that “Iraq has overcome the difficult stages after years of violence and terrorism, and before that the period of tyranny, and today we have reached a state of security and stability, and everyone should work to maintain it.”

He added that "our people have completed successful parliamentary elections, through which they have demonstrated their commitment to the principles of democracy, while pivotal milestones for the formation of the legislative and executive authorities loom before everyone."

Rashid stressed that "establishing the democratic process is a national duty, which is achieved through adherence to constitutional timelines," calling for "joining efforts and proceeding with the formation of a government that represents all Iraqis."  LINK

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Clare:  Chief Justice: The first session of the new parliament cannot be postponed or extended.

12/20/2025

The head of the Supreme Judicial Council, Faiq Zaidan, confirmed on Saturday that the first session of the new House of Representatives, scheduled for December 29, 2025, must decide on the appointment of the Speaker of the Council and his two deputies, and it is not permissible constitutionally or legally to postpone or extend it.

This came during a meeting between Faeq Zaidan, head of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan party, and Bafel Talabani, according to a statement from the Supreme Judicial Council.

The Judicial Council stated in a statement received by Shafaq News Agency that "the meeting emphasized the importance of respecting the constitutional timelines for electing the three presidencies, in order to ensure the completion of the formation of the legislative and executive authorities."

Faiq Zaidan explained that "the first session of the new House of Representatives on December 29 must end with the appointment of the Speaker of the House and his two deputies, and it is not constitutionally or legally possible to postpone or extend it."

Zidan also stressed the importance of "deciding on the nomination of the candidate for the presidency of the republic within the constitutional period of thirty days after the election of the Speaker of Parliament on the 29th of this month."

The National Political Council, which includes the Sunni forces that won the elections, is witnessing rapid political activity to announce the nomination of a candidate for Speaker of Parliament, through meetings described as positive that discussed the files of the Parliament’s presidency and the rights of the Sunni component.

This comes in parallel with the moves of the Shiite Coordination Framework, which affirmed its commitment to the constitutional deadlines and to resolving the nomination of the Prime Minister within two weeks.

President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid had set December 29 as the date for the first session of the Iraqi parliament.   LINK

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Clare:  Warning against using it to address the financial deficit... Economic Observatory: Iraq's gold reserves at their highest levels

12/20/2025  Baghdad  –

An economic observatory announced on Saturday that Iraq's gold reserves have reached a record high of approximately $23.064 billion, while simultaneously warning against using or disposing of them to address the country's financial deficit.

The observatory stated in a report that "Iraq purchased approximately 8.2 tons of gold during 2025, bringing the total reserve to 170.9 tons." The report further explained that "this increase was distributed as follows: one ton in March, 1.6 tons in June, 3.1 tons in July, and 2.5 tons in August."

The report indicated that "the total reserve of 170.9 tons is currently equivalent to $23.064 billion, the highest level of gold reserves in Iraq's history."

The observatory attributed "this significant increase to the rise in global gold prices, and not to the volume of purchases made during 2025," explaining that "recent purchases represent approximately 6.4% of the total reserves since the beginning of this year."

The observatory warned against "any manipulation or misuse of gold reserves to cover financial deficits, whether through selling a portion of them or investing them in high-risk ventures," emphasizing that "gold is a sovereign asset dedicated to supporting financial stability, not to generating immediate revenue."  LINK

Clare:  SOMO: The oil agreement between Baghdad and Erbil will be renewed

12/20/2025

The deputy director of SOMO announced that there are no problems with the oil agreement between Erbil and Baghdad, and it will be renewed.

Hamdi Shenkali, deputy director of the Iraqi Oil Marketing Company (SOMO), stated today regarding the oil agreement between Erbil and Baghdad and its expiration at the end of this month: "The agreement will be renewed and there is no problem with it. Kurdistan Region oil will continue to flow as it is. Currently, exports have exceeded 200,000 barrels per day, and God willing, the quantity of exports will increase even more."

Regarding the duration of the agreement, he said: "The agreement was set for a period of three months and ends on December 31, but in accordance with the budget law and to ensure continuity, it will be renewed later until the problems are fully resolved."

He noted that Kurdistan Region oil is currently being delivered to the Iraqi Oil Ministry in Fishkhabur, which in turn transports the oil via pipeline to the port of Ceyhan.   LINK

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Clare: First comment from the Sudanese regarding the dollar exchange rate

 12/16/2025- Baghdad

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani confirmed on Tuesday (December 16, 2025) that changing the dollar exchange rate falls within the exclusive powers of the Central Bank of Iraq.

In a televised interview followed by “Baghdad Today”, Al-Sudani said: “Changing the dollar exchange rate is the sole prerogative of the Central Bank of Iraq,” stressing that “the government has managed to reduce the gap in the exchange rate between the official and parallel rates,” indicating the government’s success in reducing the gap in the exchange rate.

Al-Sudani added: “We currently tend to maintain stability by fixing the exchange rate and not changing it from time to time to ensure market stability,” noting that “the government strongly supported correcting the conditions of private banks in order to bring them back into the market and to operate within international standards.”  LINK

The CBI is Reducing Circulation of the IQD

The CBI is Reducing Circulation of the IQD

Edu Matrix:  12-21-2025

In a significant development that underscores Iraq’s commitment to economic stability and long-term growth, the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) has reported a 5.5% decline in the Iraqi dinar currency supply during the third quarter of 2025.

This reduction, which brought the total currency in circulation down to approximately 99.68 trillion dinars (equivalent to about 76.1 billion US dollars), is being hailed as a positive signal for the Iraqi dinar’s future value and a promising indicator for investors holding IQD assets.

At first glance, a contraction in currency supply might seem counterintuitive to growth. However, as experts analyze the implications of this move, it becomes clear that this deliberate action by the CBI is a strategic step towards strengthening the Iraqi economy.

The core rationale behind this decision is rooted in fundamental economic principles: reducing the money supply helps lower inflation and stabilize prices. These are key factors that international investors and financial institutions closely scrutinize when assessing the strength and potential of a currency.

Iraq’s decision to tighten its monetary supply is a clear indication of serious long-term economic planning rather than a short-term political maneuver or speculative hype.

By making the Iraqi dinar scarcer, Iraq is effectively increasing its value potential. This move aligns Iraq’s currency management with best financial practices observed in stable economies such as the US, Eurozone, and UK, where controlling inflation and maintaining currency stability are paramount.

The implications of this development are multifaceted. Firstly, it signifies that Iraq is on the right path to rebuilding its currency’s foundation, a crucial step towards sustainable appreciation and economic stability.

While immediate gains for investors should not be expected, the disciplined monetary approach adopted by the CBI lays the groundwork for the dinar’s eventual revaluation and increased credibility on global markets.

For investors holding IQD assets, this news is particularly significant. It indicates a potential for long-term growth and stability, factors that are essential for informed investment decisions.

 The reduction in currency supply, while not an immediate catalyst for rapid appreciation, is a foundational step towards creating a more stable and attractive investment environment.

In conclusion, the CBI’s decision to reduce the Iraqi dinar currency supply is a strategic move that underscores Iraq’s commitment to economic reform and stability.

As the country continues on this path, aligning its monetary policies with international best practices, the potential for the Iraqi dinar to gain strength and credibility on the global stage increases.

https://youtu.be/anYM0sE-wYE

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Sunday Morning 12-21-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱

If you’ve been holding foreign currency for many years, you were not foolish.
You were not wrong to believe the global financial system would change.

What failed was not your patience — it was the information you were given.

For years, dates, rumors, and personalities replaced facts, structure, and proof. “This week” predictions created cycles of hope and disappointment that were never based on how currencies actually change.

That is not your failure.

Our mission here is different:

• No dates • No rates • No hype • No gurus

Instead, we focus on:
• Verifiable developments • Institutional evidence
• Global financial structure • Where countries actually sit in the process

Currency value changes only come after sovereignty, trade, banking, settlement systems, and fiscal coordination are in place. History and institutions confirm this sequence.

You will see silence. You will see denials. That is not delay — that is discipline.

Protect your identity. Organize your documents.     Verify everything.
Never hand your discernment to anyone who cannot show proof.

You deserve truth — not timelines.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

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How a Currency Really Revalues — The Structure Behind the Shift
Why monetary change follows infrastructure, not speculation

Overview

• Currency revaluation is a legal and structural process, not a market event driven by hype or rumors.

• Central banks must first establish authority, infrastructure, and asset backing before any meaningful value change occurs.

• Markets respond last, once systems, policy, and settlement mechanisms are fully aligned.

Key Developments

• Legal authority is foundational, requiring central banks to maintain clear control over monetary policy and exchange-rate regimes.

• Modern settlement infrastructure is mandatory, including real-time gross settlement systems and cross-border messaging networks.

• Reserves and assets underpin stability, with foreign exchange reserves, gold, commodities, and trade flows supporting any new valuation.

• Market structures are adjusted gradually, using managed pegs, controlled floats, or phased liberalization to prevent shock.

• Policy signaling precedes price movement, ensuring markets react only after structural readiness is complete.

Why It Matters

Understanding how currencies truly revalue separates systemic reality from speculative narratives. Monetary value changes only after legal authority, settlement capability, asset backing, and market structure are aligned — reinforcing that sustainable currency shifts are engineered processes, not spontaneous events.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Foreign currency holders who understand structural sequencing are better positioned to recognize real monetary change versus noise. Value shifts occur after infrastructure and policy alignment, meaning informed holders can distinguish genuine transitions from premature market speculation.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar: Monetary Infrastructure First
  Settlement systems, legal frameworks, and reserves must be established before any currency value adjustment.

• Pillar: Controlled Market Transition
  Gradual structural alignment prevents volatility while enabling long-term monetary realignment.

This is not just theory — it’s how currencies change value in the real system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Bank for International Settlements (BIS) – Global settlement and financial stability

• International Monetary Fund (IMF) – Exchange Rate Regimes Factsheet

• ISO – ISO 20022 Payments Standard

• SWIFT – ISO 20022 Overview

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Foundation Before Revaluation: Why Structure Comes First
Silence signals system readiness — not delay

Overview

• Currency revaluation cannot occur without legal, technical, and financial foundations fully resolved.

• Unresolved ownership claims, broken settlement rails, or unclear authority prevent value movement.

• Periods of silence often reflect intensive behind-the-scenes alignment, not inactivity.

Key Developments

• Legal and trust frameworks are being finalized, clarifying ownership of land, water, minerals, and sovereign assets.

• Legacy payment systems are being replaced, as digital settlement infrastructure undergoes ISO 20022 migration and cross-border testing.

• National balance sheets are being restructured, including debt recalibration, asset valuation, and reserve realignment.

• Jurisdictional authority is being clarified, ensuring lawful control over monetary policy before repricing occurs.

• Compliance and verification processes are advancing quietly, reinforcing systemic credibility ahead of any value adjustment.

Why It Matters

Currency value cannot move on unstable ground. Repricing without verified assets, compliant settlement systems, and clear legal authority would invite systemic risk and loss of confidence. History shows that durable monetary change only follows complete structural readiness.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For currency holders, understanding sequence is protection. Revaluation is the final step — not the beginning. Signals of real progress include trust settlements, asset verification, ISO upgrades, and payment system testing. Recognizing these markers helps distinguish real preparation from speculation.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar: Structural Integrity First
  Legal clarity, asset verification, and settlement reliability must precede any currency adjustment.

• Pillar: Quiet Completion
  The reset advances through compliance and coordination, not public announcements or speculative timelines.

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

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Bank for International Settlements (BIS) – Financial Market Infrastructure & Stability

• SWIFT – ISO 20022 Standards

• Federal Reserve – ISO 20022 Transition for Fedwire

• International Monetary Fund (IMF) – Sovereign Debt Factsheet

• World Bank – Land and Asset Governance

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Signs the System Is Ready: How to Recognize Real Monetary Readiness
What preparedness looks like before value can move

Overview

• True monetary readiness shows up in systems, not headlines, and is visible only after foundational work is complete.

• Technical, legal, and settlement signals emerge quietly once alignment reaches final stages.

• Markets react last, after readiness is verified and operational.

Key Developments

• Payment systems complete ISO 20022 migrations, enabling structured data, compliance controls, and cross-border interoperability.

• RTGS and cross-border settlement testing concludes, confirming real-time clearing and liquidity management.

• Central banks finalize reserve positioning, balancing gold, FX, commodities, and trade-backed assets.

• Legal authority and jurisdictional clarity are publicly affirmed, removing ambiguity over monetary control.

• Trusts, asset registries, and custodial frameworks are validated, enabling tokenization and transparent ownership.

• Quiet coordination replaces public messaging, signaling that implementation—not debate—is underway.

Why It Matters

Readiness is not announced—it is observed. When systems are fully aligned, risk is minimized and confidence is restored. These signals confirm that monetary architecture is capable of supporting value at a new level without disruption, speculation, or systemic shock.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Currency holders who understand readiness markers avoid emotional decision-making. Operational signals—such as settlement readiness, asset verification, and reserve alignment—indicate proximity to real change. Awareness protects against misinformation and premature expectations.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar: Operational Completion
  Functional settlement, verified assets, and compliant systems confirm that preparation has moved from planning to execution.

• Pillar: Market Confidence Restoration
  Silent readiness stabilizes expectations and ensures value movement occurs smoothly once triggered.

This is not speculation — it’s how readiness reveals itself in the real system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Bank for International Settlements (BIS) – Financial Market Infrastructure and Settlement Systems

• SWIFT – ISO 20022 Standards and Migration

• International Monetary Fund (IMF) – Exchange Rate Regimes and Monetary Frameworks

• Federal Reserve – Payment Systems and Settlement Infrastructure
  

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What Triggers the Final Shift: When Systems Move From Ready to Live
The precise moment structure becomes value

Overview

• The final monetary shift is triggered by system activation, not announcements.

• Once global payment infrastructure, legal authority, and reserves are synchronized, execution follows quietly.

• Markets respond only after systems are live, compliant, and irreversible.

Key Developments

• Global payment systems complete ISO 20022 migration milestones, enabling full interoperability, compliance messaging, and structured data exchange.

• RTGS systems move from parallel testing to live-only operation, signaling readiness for real-time settlement at scale.

• Cross-border corridors activate synchronized settlement windows, reducing FX risk and settlement delays.

• Central banks finalize reserve and liquidity positioning, ensuring balance sheets can support adjusted valuations.

• Policy frameworks shift from guidance to execution, allowing settlement, pricing, and valuation mechanisms to function without intervention.

• Legacy support systems are retired, confirming that rollback is no longer required.

Why It Matters

The final shift occurs when systems no longer need supervision or explanation. Once payment rails, legal authority, and reserves are aligned and operational, value can move safely. This protects markets from shock, preserves confidence, and ensures stability during transition.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For currency holders, the trigger is not news—it is confirmation. Live settlement, completed migrations, and operational silence indicate that the system is executing as designed. Those watching infrastructure rather than headlines recognize real change when it happens.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar: Execution Over Announcement
  The reset finalizes through system activation, not public declarations or speculative timelines.

• Pillar: Irreversible Infrastructure
  Once global payment rails are live and legacy systems are retired, monetary structure becomes permanent.

This is not a prediction — it’s how the final shift is triggered in the real financial system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Bank for International Settlements (BIS) – Financial Market Infrastructure and Settlemen

• SWIFT – ISO 20022 Migration and Global Adoption

• Federal Reserve – Fedwire Funds Service ISO 20022 Transition

• European Central Bank – TARGET Services and RTGS Infrastructure

• International Monetary Fund (IMF) – Monetary Policy Frameworks

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The Difference Between Ready and Irreversible
Why global systems wait to lock execution until rollback is impossible

Overview

• Ready means infrastructure, regulations, and reserves are prepared but still reversible.

• Irreversible begins only when legacy systems are retired and live execution is exclusive.

• Markets do not react to readiness; they react to lock-in.

Key Developments

• ISO 20022 migrations reach operational readiness, but global systems still allow limited fallback paths.

• RTGS platforms operate in real time, yet some jurisdictions maintain parallel contingency modes.

• Cross-border settlement corridors exist, though not all are synchronized into unified execution windows.

• Regulatory frameworks are written and aligned, but final legal clarity in key jurisdictions remains pending.

• Central bank reserves are positioned, without being forced into live deployment.

• Legacy systems remain on standby, preserving reversibility.

Why It Matters

Readiness signals preparation; irreversibility signals commitment. Financial systems only reprice when rollback is no longer supported. Until execution becomes exclusive—without exemptions, extensions, or explanations—markets remain anchored to the old framework. The final shift occurs when structure, law, and liquidity move together with no safety net.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Foreign currency holders are not waiting for headlines—they are watching for permanence. Live-only settlement, retired legacy rails, and legal authority that no longer requires interpretation are the true indicators. Value adjusts when systems must operate forward, not when they can.

Implications for the Global Reset

Pillar: Exclusivity of Execution
The reset locks when new systems are the only systems permitted to function.

Pillar: Removal of Rollback
Irreversibility is achieved when legacy support is formally retired and cannot be reinstated.

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

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Bank for International Settlements – “Principles for Financial Market Infrastructures”

• SWIFT – “ISO 20022 Migration and Global Adoption”

• Federal Reserve – “Fedwire Funds Service ISO 20022 Transition”

• European Central Bank – “TARGET Services and RTGS Infrastructure”

• International Monetary Fund – “Monetary Policy Frameworks and Financial Stability”

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Thank you Dinar Recaps

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Sunday Morning 12-21-25

For The Second Year In A Row, Iraq Is Outside The Top 20 Countries Holding These US Bonds

Saturday, December 20, 2025 15:57 | Economy Number of views: 139  Baghdad/ NINA / The US Treasury announced that Japan and the United Kingdom, the two largest holders of US Treasury securities, increased their holdings, while China reduced its holdings. The Treasury also noted that two Arab countries were among the top 20 holders.

In its latest 2025 report, the Treasury stated that Japan and the United Kingdom increased their holdings of US Treasury securities to $1.2 trillion and $877 billion respectively in October, while China reduced its holdings to $688 billion from $700 billion.

The report added that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates were among the top 20 holders of US Treasury securities, with holdings of $134 billion and $110 billion respectively. It further noted that Iraq remained outside the top 20 holders of these securities for the second consecutive year.

She pointed out that: "The total value of bonds held by countries worldwide reached $9.242 trillion.

It is worth noting that Iraq holds approximately $32 billion in US bonds, which are considered part of the country's reserve investments." /End 7.   https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1267660

The Prime Minister Affirms The Government's Support For Automation And Digital Transformation Projects

Saturday, December 20, 2025 | Politics Number of views: 121  Baghdad/ NINA /Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani affirmed the government's support for projects employing automation and digital transformation to serve scientific research and document preservation.

His media office stated in a press release that Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani inaugurated the Iraqi Digital Library project in Baghdad on Saturday.

In his address, al-Sudani emphasized that the project represents a significant scientific edifice serving the present and paving the way for future knowledge by making documents and information available in a digitally archived, reliable, and easily accessible format.

The Prime Minister explained that the library will preserve Iraq's human output in all its intellectual, scientific, cultural, literary, and media dimensions, serving researchers and students by converting it into a comprehensive digital system using the latest internationally recognized equipment and technologies.

The statement further clarified that the Digital Library project is a pioneering initiative, being the first of its kind in Iraq, the seventh globally, and the third in the region. It was designed according to international standards, and preparations are currently underway to launch the second phase of the project, which involves equipping the library with the necessary digital transformation equipment.   https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1267689

Iraq's Imports Exceeded $60 Billion In Nine Months.

Money and Business  Economy News — Baghdad   The Central Bank of Iraq announced on Saturday that Iraq's imports up to September of last year, 2025, amounted to more than $63 billion.

The bank said in a statistic that “Iraq’s imports for the first nine months, from the beginning of January until September, amounted to $63 billion and 93 million,” indicating that “the imports included imports of the government sector and the private sector.”

He added that "government sector imports amounted to $5 billion and 350 million, while private sector imports amounted to $57 billion and 743 million."

She pointed out that "government imports included consumer imports, capital imports, oil product imports, and other government imports," while "private sector imports included consumer imports and capital imports."
https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=63605

SOMO: The Oil Agreement Between Baghdad And Erbil Will Be Renewed

Energy   The deputy director of SOMO announced that there are no problems with the oil agreement between Erbil and Baghdad, and it will be renewed.

Hamdi Shenkali, deputy director of the Iraqi Oil Marketing Company (SOMO), stated today regarding the oil agreement between Erbil and Baghdad and its expiration at the end of this month: "The agreement will be renewed and there is no problem with it. Kurdistan Region oil will continue to flow as it is. Currently, exports have exceeded 200,000 barrels per day, and God willing, the quantity of exports will increase even more."

Regarding the duration of the agreement, he said: "The agreement was set for a period of three months and ends on December 31, but in accordance with the budget law and to ensure continuity, it will be renewed later until the problems are fully resolved."

He noted that Kurdistan Region oil is currently being delivered to the Iraqi Oil Ministry in Fishkhabur, which in turn transports the oil via pipeline to the port of Ceyhan.     https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=63614

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

“Tidbits From TNT” Sunday Morning 12-21-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Zidane: The parliamentary session on December 29th will decide on the presidency of the council and cannot be extended.

The head of the Supreme Judicial Council, Faiq Zaidan, confirmed that the session of the new House of Representatives scheduled for December 29 must end with the appointment of the Speaker of the Council and his two deputies, noting that it is not constitutionally or legally possible to postpone or extend it.

A statement from the judiciary, a copy of which was received by Al-Furat News, stated that: “This came during the reception of the President of the Supreme Judicial Council, Faiq Zaidan, on Saturday, by the President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan Party, Bafel Talabani.”

He added, "During the meeting, emphasis was placed on the importance of respecting the constitutional timelines for electing the three presidencies, in order to ensure the completion of the formation of the legislative and executive authorities."

Zaidan explained that "the first session of the new House of Representatives on 29/12/2025 must end with the appointment of the Speaker of the House of Representatives and his two deputies, and it is not constitutionally or legally possible to postpone or extend it."

Ziad also stressed "the importance of deciding on the nomination of the candidate for the presidency of the republic within the constitutional period of thirty days after the election of the Speaker of Parliament on the 29th of this month." link

Tishwash:  Savaya travels to Baghdad to discuss the nature of the relationship between Washington and Baghdad in the next phase. 

An informed government source revealed on Sunday that the US President’s envoy, Mark Savaya, will soon visit Baghdad at the head of a delegation from the US administration to discuss a number of issues related to the nature of the relationship between Washington and Baghdad in the next stage, as well as to discuss solutions to the crises.

The source told Shafaq News Agency that “US envoy Mark Savaya, accompanied by a number of US officials, will visit Baghdad soon to meet with a number of officials   in the Iraqi government and various political leaders, to discuss important issues concerning developments in the Middle East and its stability, in addition to economic dealings and partnerships, US investment, and the priorities of the stage, most notably the political and security files for Iraq and the region in general.”

He added that "the delegation will also discuss mechanisms to expand the scope of partnership and political consensus regarding some visions concerning the regional situation, and proposals for solutions to address crises and challenges," indicating that "Safaya will carry with him American messages to the Iraqi forces, including the results of work on some issues and files agreed upon between Baghdad and Washington, and the upcoming visions for formulating a real partnership, specifically regarding the withdrawal of American forces according to the specified timetables, in addition to how to deal with the next stage based on the security partnership and arming the Iraqi forces, and the armament plans."

Last October, US President Donald Trump decided to appoint Mark Savaya as special envoy to Iraq .

Mark Savaya is the third US envoy to Iraq since Paul Bremer in 2003, and after Brett McGurk, during the war against ISIS in 2014.

Savaya has stirred controversy through his recent writings, in which he explicitly called for an end to the armed factions and for them to be prevented from participating in the government, as well as issuing warnings to Iraq and cautioning against a return to a "cycle of complications".

Yesterday, Saturday, some armed factions announced their agreement to the call to restrict weapons to the state, and official positions were issued by the Secretary-General of the Imam Ali Brigades, Shibl al-Zaidi, followed by a call from the Secretary-General of the Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq Movement, Qais al-Khazali, as well as the Ansar Allah al-Awfiya faction, in addition to the spokesman for the Sayyid al-Shuhada Brigades.

The head of Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council, Faiq Zaidan, announced yesterday that armed factions had responded to the call to restrict weapons to the state.

However, Kataib Hezbollah issued a statement rejecting its "disarmament" and affirming that "sovereignty, controlling the security of Iraq, and preventing foreign interference in all its forms are prerequisites for discussing the state's monopoly on weapons. We affirm that our position is consistent with what our religious authorities have stated, whenever that is achieved link

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Tishwash:  After the prime minister's name was decided, the coordination framework moved to negotiating the government program.

Non-controversial

The atmosphere of the movement within the Coordination Framework, the broader umbrella for Shiite political forces in Parliament, is moving towards a crucial stage, the title of which is agreeing on a name and program for the next Prime Minister

In an attempt to produce a candidate who can manage the next stage and open the door to understanding with the rest of the political forces within the framework of constitutional entitlements and political calming, which seems to have decided on the name of the Prime Minister internally, to move practically to negotiating the government program and its priorities before the official announcement of the candidate.

Salam Al-Zubaidi, a member of the Coordination Framework, confirmed to Baghdad Today that “the intensive meetings and gatherings held by the Framework’s forces are witnessing remarkable progress in viewpoints, and there is a broad understanding on the need to choose a figure capable of managing the next stage efficiently and achieving political and service stability, while taking into account the country’s supreme interest.”

Al-Zubaidi explained that "the discussions are not limited to names only, but also include the government program and executive work priorities, foremost among them improving the economic situation, supporting security and stability, and enhancing public confidence in official institutions, and agreement on these files is proceeding in parallel with the naming file."

According to political data obtained by "Baghdad Today," most of the figures close to the coordinating framework, who appear on political programs on television, confirm in their talks that "the decision has already been made," and that the candidate is a figure from the Middle Euphrates region, a graduate of Baghdad University, and does not provoke a sharp dispute among the main Shiite forces.

These data indicate that the current discussion is focused on the details of the government program, which was likely formulated primarily in agreement with the candidate himself, and that the ongoing dialogues aim to incorporate the observations of the various forces before announcing the final version.

Al-Zubaidi added that "the positive atmosphere prevailing in the dialogues reflects the keenness of all parties to avoid disputes and move towards a genuine consensus that leads to the formation of a strong government capable of facing internal and external challenges, and the next few days may witness an official announcement of the name of the candidate for the premiership."

The member of the coordinating framework concluded by saying that "the current stage requires calming down and clearly prioritizing the logic of dialogue and understanding, and the framework is proceeding with completing the constitutional entitlements in accordance with the legal contexts and in a way that fulfills the aspirations of the citizens."

Three key factional figures broke the scene in the past few hours with similar statements, in which they expressed their readiness to hand over weapons and confine them to the hands of the state, in a move that is read - according to political sources - as one of the signs of paving the way for the new political stage, and an early message of support for the next government and its supposed security program.

The political arena is witnessing intense activity to resolve the issue of forming the new government, amid popular anticipation of the process of choosing the next Prime Minister, and whether he will be able to manage the economic and service crises and reduce the severity of political tension, after previous government experiences marred by disputes and the failure to implement reform programs. link

Mot: lights ooops!!!!!  

Mot: Only ""muffin"" 

Can Tokenization Save the Financial System Before it Breaks?

Can Tokenization Save the Financial System Before it Breaks?

Miles Harris:  12-19-2025

The global financial system is facing a mounting stress test, with many experts attributing the turmoil to a debt crisis.

However, a recent video by Miles Harris presents a contrarian view, arguing that the root cause of the problem lies not in debt, but in a shortage of usable collateral.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the video’s key insights and explore the implications of a collateral-driven financial system.

Modern finance relies heavily on collateralized balance sheets, repo markets, securities lending, derivatives margining, and wholesale funding.

 All these mechanisms require widely accepted, transparently priced, and mobile collateral to function effectively. When collateral circulation falters, lending capacity contracts sharply, causing recurring stress in short-term funding markets. In other words, the smooth functioning of the financial system depends on the availability of high-quality collateral.

Since the 2008 financial crisis, government debt has been the primary form of universal collateral. However, this is proving insufficient due to banks’ balance sheet constraints, regulatory rules, and interest rate risks.

The recent stalling of quantitative tightening (QT) by the Federal Reserve is a case in point. Rather than being a failure of monetary policy, the Fed’s decision to purchase short-term debt is a response to collateral scarcity, aimed at maintaining liquidity and preventing short-term funding markets from seizing up.

The video highlights a global movement towards a unified digital ledger system, promoted by central banks and international organizations like the BIS.

This system would consolidate records of money and financial assets onto shared digital rails, increasing transparency of asset ownership, collateral pledging, and usage.

 Tokenization, the process of converting real-world assets into standardized digital claims, is a critical innovation that could unlock vast pools of currently illiquid assets, like real estate, for lending.

The European Commission’s recent policy moves, such as build-to-rent housing schemes, are practical examples of expanding collateral bases through tokenization-friendly assets.

Infrastructure providers like the DTCC are already engaging with tokenized collateral frameworks, signaling that the transition is not theoretical but an active redesign of financial plumbing.

While the new system is not yet ready, policymakers must rely on temporary bridges like balance sheet expansions, liquidity facilities, and regulatory flexibility to keep the system afloat in the short term.

The success of tokenization and unified ledgers depends heavily on timing; premature tightening risks systemic shocks, while delayed implementation prolongs fragility.

Understanding the dynamics of a collateral-driven financial system is crucial for preserving and growing wealth in the coming years.

Those who anticipate and adapt to the transition towards a tokenized, unified ledger-based financial system will be better positioned to navigate future crises and opportunities.

In conclusion, the video by Miles Harris offers a compelling narrative that challenges the conventional wisdom on global financial stress.

 By recognizing the critical role of collateral in modern finance and the limitations of government debt as collateral, we can better understand the underlying drivers of financial stress. As the world moves towards a tokenized and unified ledger-based financial system, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt to the changing landscape.

https://youtu.be/DymmP6SgAEE

MilitiaMan and Crew: IQD News Update-Economic Foundation-Path to REER-Revaluation

MilitiaMan and Crew: IQD News Update-Economic Foundation-Path to REER-Revaluation

12-20-2025

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=ZYba6zwA6LQ

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Saturday Afternoon 12-20-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

Global Trade Set to Break Records in 2025 as Flows Surge Past $35 Trillion
Goods and services expansion underscores resilience amid global restructuring

Overview

• Global trade in goods and services is on track to exceed $35 trillion in 2025, marking the highest level on record.

• Trade flows are expected to rise by approximately $2.2 trillion, or 7%, compared with 2024, reflecting continued expansion through the second half of the year.

• Services trade is growing faster than goods, highlighting structural shifts in global commerce.

Key Developments

• Trade in goods is projected to contribute roughly $1.5 trillion to overall growth, supported by resilient supply chains and continued demand.

• Services trade is expected to expand by about $750 billion, nearly 9%, reinforcing its rising importance in global trade flows.

• UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) forecasts continued growth into the fourth quarter of 2025, though at a slower pace.

• Quarterly growth is expected to moderate to 0.5% for goods and 2% for services, signaling stabilization rather than contraction.

• The sustained expansion reflects adaptive trade networks, even as geopolitical fragmentation and policy realignment persist.

Why It Matters

Record-breaking global trade levels suggest that despite geopolitical tensions, sanctions, and supply chain reconfiguration, the global economy continues to function through diversified trade corridors. This resilience supports economic activity but also masks underlying shifts in trade settlement, currency use, and regional alignment.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

As trade volumes expand, currency demand increasingly follows trade settlement preferences rather than legacy reserve norms. Growth in services and diversified trade routes may accelerate the use of non-dollar currencies, increasing volatility and repricing risk for foreign currency holders tied to traditional trade settlement systems.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar: Trade System Resilience
  Record trade volumes demonstrate that global commerce is adapting rather than collapsing, even as structures are redesigned.

• Pillar: Currency Realignment
  Expanding trade flows create pressure for alternative settlement mechanisms and regional currency usage beyond the dollar-centric system.

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

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) – “Global Trade Update (December 2025): Global trade poised for a record-breaking 2025 as flows expected to surge past $35 trillion”

• UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) – Global Trade Updates

~~~~~~~~~~

Industrial Metals Rally on Tight Supply and Demand Dynamics

Copper near record highs underpins bullish industrial metals narrative

Overview

• Copper prices are trading within striking distance of all-time highs amid renewed tight supply concerns and structural demand growth. Benchmark copper on the London Metal Exchange rose to about $11,837 per ton, approaching the record $11,952 level set recently. 

• Bullish outlook persists even as the U.S. dollar strengthens slightly, with week-to-date gains and continued year-to-date strength (up ~35% in 2025). 

Key Developments

• Analysts from Goldman Sachs highlighted unique supply constraints as a core driver of the rally and reiterated long-term structural demand, citing copper as a favored industrial metal. 

• Aluminium reached multi-year highs, supported by both energy transition and infrastructure demand, while other base metals including tin and lead saw upward pressure. 

• Nickel prices climbed modestly after Indonesia proposed output cuts, tightening markets for battery and alloy metals.

• A stronger U.S. dollar capped further gains, highlighting currency dynamics in commodity pricing. 

Why It Matters

Copper’s sustained rally signals deeper shifts in global industrial demand — particularly for electrification, renewable infrastructure, and data-center capacity — while constrained mine supply underscores structural inflexibility in raw materials that are critical to the energy transition.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Rising real asset prices like copper often reflect weakening confidence in fiat currencies, driving investors toward tangible commodities. For holders of foreign currencies, such strength can signal inflation hedging behavior and reallocation of capital into hard assets.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar: Transition-Asset Realignment
  Surge in critical industrial metals reflects fundamental rebalancing towards energy transition priorities and infrastructure buildout.

• Pillar: Monetary Risk Hedging
  Persistent metals strength amidst currency dynamics highlights deepening investor preference for real assets over sovereign debt.

This is not just markets — it’s structural demand shaping future global capital flows.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters – Copper nears record high as supply tightness back in focus

• Reuters/Commodity price data wrap – Copper prices rise as tight supply is in focus

~~~~~~~~~~

Fed Withdraws Crypto Banking Ban, Opening Door for Digital Asset Innovation
Regulatory shift empowers state-chartered banks to engage with digital asset services

Overview

• The U.S. Federal Reserve Board has officially withdrawn its 2023 policy statement that restricted state-chartered banks from engaging in certain cryptocurrency and innovative banking activities. The action marks a significant pivot toward enabling responsible financial innovation. 

• The withdrawn guidance had effectively limited state member banks, including uninsured banks, by tying them to the same narrow activity set as national banks.

• The new policy framework creates a pathway for both insured and uninsured state-supervised banks to pursue novel activities — including digital asset services — so long as they satisfy supervisory and risk-management standards. 

Key Developments

• The 2023 policy statement — rescinded in December 2025 — had been viewed as a de facto barrier to crypto-related services by state-chartered banks, including payments, stablecoin support, and brokerage functions. 

• Under the new framework, state member banks may seek approval to offer innovative activities not previously permissible, provided they meet safety and soundness requirements. 

• Uninsured state banks particularly benefit, as the previous regime limited their access to Federal Reserve membership and payment infrastructure. 

• The Board’s shift reflects an evolved understanding of financial technologies and a desire to balance innovation with systemic stability. 

• Industry leaders have framed the move as a major regulatory pivot that could expand institutional participation in digital assets through the regulated banking system. 

Why It Matters

This withdrawal of restrictive guidance signals a meaningful shift in the U.S. central bank’s approach to digital finance. By carving out an explicit route for state-chartered banks to engage in digital asset activities, the Fed is potentially integrating blockchain-based services more directly into the regulated financial system — a move that could reshape market structure and institutional participation in crypto-related markets.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

The integration of digital asset capabilities into mainstream banking has implications for currency holders globally. As traditional financial institutions begin to support crypto and tokenized services under regulated frameworks, demand patterns for alternative settlement mechanisms, cross-border payments, and digital liquidity pools may evolve, pressuring established currency systems and reserve assets.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar: Regulatory Integration of Digital Finance
  Enabling banks to engage in digital asset services under supervision bridges the divide between traditional finance and emerging technologies.

• Pillar: Financial System Evolution
  The policy shift accelerates the normalization of digital asset markets within regulated banking systems, potentially influencing global capital flows and monetary treatment of crypto-based instruments.

This is not just policy — it’s the structural integration of digital finance into the global banking architecture.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Federal Reserve Board – Federal Reserve Board withdraws 2023 policy statement and issues new policy statement regarding the treatment of certain Board-supervised banks

• Yahoo Finance – Fed scraps 2023 crypto banking policy, opens access to digital asset activities

~~~~~~~~~~

EV Metals Complex Under Strain as Battery Materials Lose Charge

Oversupply and tech shifts reshape metals trade and supply chains

Overview

• Battery metals like lithium, nickel and cobalt are facing a third consecutive difficult year despite strong EV adoption, as oversupply and shifting battery chemistries weigh on prices and demand. 

• EV sales rose ~21% year-over-year, yet not all metals are benefiting equally due to evolving battery technology preferences. 

Key Developments

• Chinese companies advancing LFP and sodium-ion battery tech are displacing traditional nickel-cobalt chemistries, reducing demand pressures for those metals. 

• Nickel and cobalt markets are oversupplied, with elevated LME warehouse stocks and lagging demand growth compared to early-cycle forecasts. 

• Lithium remains dominant but is facing emerging competition from new chemistries, challenging traditional demand assumptions. 

• Copper and aluminum stand out as enduring winners, vital for wiring, infrastructure and vehicle construction even as battery mix shifts. 

Why It Matters

The disconnect between EV sales momentum and lagging battery-metal pricing highlights how technological shifts and supply imbalances are redefining commodity demand patterns, with implications for producers, national export strategies and capital allocation.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Oversupplied metal markets amid evolving demand can temper inflationary pressures on input costs while signaling deeper structural shifts in trade flows for critical minerals — influencing currency valuations in commodity-dependent economies.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar: Strategic Resource Realignment
  Technology-driven demand patterns force a rethinking of mineral investment and supply chain strategies globally.

• Pillar: Trade Flow Reconfiguration
  Oversupply in traditional battery metals may redirect flows toward alternative critical commodities and produce new geopolitical dependencies.

This is not just technology — it’s a new blueprint for industrial commodities in a post-transition economy.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters – EV revolution rolls on but battery metals lose their charge

• Reuters – Commodities Market Headlines: battery metals under pressure

~~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

RV Facts with Proof Links Link

RV Updates Proof links - Facts Link

Follow the Gold/Silver Rate COMEX

Follow Fast Facts

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Thank you Dinar Recaps

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Saturday Afternoon 12-20-25

The Dollar Is Rising Again And Putting Pressure On The Dinar In Local Markets.

Economy |  20/12/2025   Mawazin News - Baghdad:   Local markets in Baghdad witnessed a rise in the exchange rate of the US dollar against the Iraqi dinar.   The selling price reached 143,500 dinars per 100 dollars, while the buying price was 142,500 dinars per 100 dollars. Traders are cautiously monitoring market activity and the fluctuating exchange rates.    https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=271801

Government Advisor: Iraq's Debt Does Not Pose A Burden On Financial Stability

Economy | 20/12/2025   Mawazin News - Baghdad:   The Prime Minister's Financial Advisor, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, confirmed that
Iraq's external debt is 4%, which is within safe limits. He also indicated that both internal and external debt are within internationally accepted safe limits.

Salih stated, "Iraq's external public debt constitutes only about 4% of its GDP, a very low percentage compared to internationally recognized safe limits, which allow external debt to reach up to 60% of GDP." He added, "This means that Iraq is outside the circle of external debt overburden, which is clearly reflected in its stable credit rating at level B over the past years and up to the present."

He continued, "As for domestic public debt, the accumulated amount during the current government's term does not exceed 34 trillion dinars, a figure significantly lower than the hypothetical ceilings anticipated in the three-year budget."

 He added, "The financial planning for that budget assumed annual borrowing levels nearly double what was actually achieved over the three years, meaning that the ratio of actual domestic debt to the planned amount did not exceed 15% during the implementation period of the three-year budget, as stipulated by Law No. (13) of 2023."

He pointed out that "the 2026 budget planning takes into account that the outstanding debt balance, particularly the inherited domestic debt accumulated over more than a decade, along with the remaining external debt, collectively constitutes only 31% of the total annual GDP. This percentage also falls within the globally safe range for financial stability and does not represent a structural burden on public finances."

He added, "The 2026 budget's reliance on a hypothetical borrowing ceiling is not a cause for concern; rather, it falls within the framework of sound risk management, particularly regarding the risks of global oil market volatility and its potential impact on planned revenue levels."

He pointed out that "this approach is reinforced by adopting a high level of fiscal discipline, the foundations of which are being laid in the draft federal budget law for next year, through controlling expenditures, enhancing non-oil revenues, and implementing high-level financial governance, while taking into account external shocks, especially those related to energy markets."   https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=271809

Warning Against Using It To Address The Financial Deficit... Economic Observatory: Iraq's Gold Reserves At Their Highest Levels

Saturday, December 20, 2025, 10:28 AM | Economy Number of views: 220   Baghdad ( NINA ) – An economic observatory announced on Saturday that Iraq's gold reserves have reached a record high of approximately $23.064 billion, while simultaneously warning against using or disposing of them to address the country's financial deficit.

The observatory stated in a report that "Iraq purchased approximately 8.2 tons of gold during 2025, bringing the total reserve to 170.9 tons." The report further explained that "this increase was distributed as follows: one ton in March, 1.6 tons in June, 3.1 tons in July, and 2.5 tons in August."

The report indicated that "the total reserve of 170.9 tons is currently equivalent to $23.064 billion, the highest level of gold reserves in Iraq's history."

The observatory attributed "this significant increase to the rise in global gold prices, and not to the volume of purchases made during 2025," explaining that "recent purchases represent approximately 6.4% of the total reserves since the beginning of this year."

The observatory warned against "any manipulation or misuse of gold reserves to cover financial deficits, whether through selling a portion of them or investing them in high-risk ventures," emphasizing that "gold is a sovereign asset dedicated to supporting financial stability, not to generating immediate revenue." /End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1267601

Iraq And Jordan Are Developing A Roadmap For Economic Cooperation And Integration.

December 20, 2025  Amman – Rand Al-Hashemi   Baghdad – Qusay Munther   Iraq and Jordan agreed to launch a roadmap for economic cooperation and integration between the two countries, which includes opening new investment opportunities and developing trade relations, within the framework of pushing joint development to broader horizons.

Meanwhile, an independent economic observatory warned of the danger of manipulating gold reserves to cover the budget deficit, stressing that such a step could threaten the stability of public finances and weaken confidence in the local economy.

A statement received by Al-Zaman yesterday said that, “Following up on the initiative launched after the meeting between Prince Hassan bin Talal and both the Iraqi Ambassador to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Omar Al-Barzanji, and the Iraqi Commercial Attaché, Mustafa Thamer Al-Alam, the second meeting of the Iraqi-Jordanian Economic Cooperation and Integration Forum was held, with the participation of a select group of senior business leaders and representatives of the private sector from both countries.”

The statement added that, “This meeting comes within the framework of following up on the directions agreed upon during that meeting, and the resulting formation of a joint working group concerned with exploring mechanisms to enhance economic cooperation, studying opportunities for integration between Iraq and Jordan, and developing projects of common priority.”

It continued, “The participants discussed setting general strategic guidelines for the forum’s work, and defining the executive frameworks for the next phase, including supporting mutual investment, activating the joint industrial zone, and strengthening cooperation in the productive and service sectors. The outcomes of the first meeting were also reviewed, and follow-up mechanisms were updated.”

The statement concluded by saying that, “The forum concluded its meeting by affirming the continuation of holding periodic sessions, expanding participation, and working to develop a practical plan that opens new horizons for cooperation.” (Economic partnership between the two countries).

For his part, Barzanji affirmed that (the forum represents a practical step towards consolidating the economic partnership between the two countries), noting that (all outputs and recommendations will be presented to Prince Talal for final approval and implementation, in a way that supports the path of bilateral economic integration).

On the other hand, an observatory calling itself Eco Iraq warned of the dangers of tampering with Iraq's gold reserves, valued at approximately $23.64 billion, to address the country's financial deficit. The observatory stated in a report yesterday that Iraq purchased approximately 8.2 tons of gold this year, raising its total reserves to 170.9 tons. It noted that this increase was distributed as follows: one ton in March, 1.6 tons in June, 3.1 tons in July, and 2.5 tons in August.

The observatory explained that Iraq's total reserves of 170.9 tons are currently equivalent to $23.064 billion, the highest level ever recorded for gold reserves. It attributed the significant increase in the reserve's value to the rise in global gold prices, not to the volume of purchases made in recent months, which constituted 64 percent of the total reserves since the beginning of the year.

The observatory warned against any manipulation of the gold reserves to cover deficits, whether by selling a portion of them or subjecting them to high-risk investments, emphasizing that gold is a sovereign asset allocated for financial stability, not for generating immediate revenue. In a related development, an economic expert identified key pillars for strengthening the Iraqi economy.Salah Nouri stated yesterday that “economic strength lies in local production that competes with imported goods, especially agricultural and livestock production,” emphasizing that “Iraq is historically an agricultural country and the elements of agricultural production can be provided, provided the water problem is solved at present.”

 Nouri explained that “the second pillar depends on strengthening industrial production through public-private partnership contracts, as well as encouraging small and medium enterprises by supporting them with soft loans while ensuring monitoring and regulation of these projects,” stressing “the importance of accelerating the completion of the electricity infrastructure and utilizing the natural gas associated with oil extraction,” calling for “reconsidering the size of the operational budget and streamlining spending, especially unjustified privileges in light of the financial crisis.”

 He added that “the success of these pillars, in addition to the International Development Road project, depends on combating corruption in contracting and implementation processes.” LINK

 

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Saturday Morning 12-20-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱

If you’ve been holding foreign currency for many years, you were not foolish.
You were not wrong to believe the global financial system would change.

What failed was not your patience — it was the information you were given.

For years, dates, rumors, and personalities replaced facts, structure, and proof. “This week” predictions created cycles of hope and disappointment that were never based on how currencies actually change.

That is not your failure.

Our mission here is different:
• No dates • No rates • No hype • No gurus 

Instead, we focus on:
• Verifiable developments • Institutional evidence
• Global financial structure • Where countries actually sit in the process

Currency value changes only come after sovereignty, trade, banking, settlement systems, and fiscal coordination are in place. History and institutions confirm this sequence.

You will see silence. You will see denials. That is not delay — that is discipline.

Protect your identity. Organize your documents.      Verify everything.
Never hand your discernment to anyone who cannot show proof.

You deserve truth — not timelines.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

~~~~~~~~~~

ECB Affirms Banks Will Be Central in Distributing Digital Euro
Policy makers aim to preserve banking intermediation and financial stability as digital currency design advances

Overview

• European Central Bank officials reaffirmed that banks and payment intermediaries will distribute the digital euro, maintaining their key role in the financial system and credit intermediation. 

• The digital euro is being designed to avoid bank disintermediation, with holding limits, non-remuneration, and links to commercial accounts. 

• The ECB is progressing toward potential issuance, with regulatory approval and pilot phases targeted in the coming years. 

Key Developments

• ECB executives restated that banks will distribute the digital euro and manage customer interfaces, integrating digital euro wallets into existing banking services. 

• Safeguards to preserve credit intermediation include non-interest design, holding limits, and linked commercial accounts, preventing destabilising deposit outflows. 

• Technical design measures aim to ensure banks retain revenue from transactions and benefit from digital euro adoption through fee savings and compensated services.

• The ECB continues public outreach and legislative engagement, while broader EU institutions work on legal frameworks and functionality (e.g., online/offline use). 

• Blockchain/DLT settlement preparations and cross-border ambitions are advancing, potentially reinforcing banks’ roles within a robust payments ecosystem. 

Why It Matters

This emphasis by the ECB reflects policymakers’ desire to modernise the euro area’s payment systems without undermining traditional banking functions. By anchoring digital euro distribution through banks, the ECB aims to uphold the transmission of monetary policy, deposit-credit intermediation, and financial stability even as central bank money goes digital.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

The design choices for the digital euro — including banks as distribution partners — will influence how digital currencies compete with cash, commercial deposits, and emerging stablecoins globally. A digital euro that preserves bank roles may stabilize demand for euro-area financial assets, support banking credit flows, and shape foreign portfolio allocations toward euro-denominated instruments.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar: Public-Private Financial Integration
  Embedding a digital euro within the existing banking network bridges central bank money with private financial intermediation, supporting continuity in credit markets.

• Pillar: Monetary Stability & Sovereignty
  A European CBDC designed to complement banks strengthens the euro area’s monetary order while mitigating fragmentation and foreign payment dependencies.

This is not just finance — it’s how digital money will integrate with the global banking system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• ECB – The future of money: a central bank perspective

• ECB – The digital euro: maintaining the autonomy of the monetary system

• Reuters – EU Council backs digital euro with both online and offline functionality

~~~~~~~~~~

Russia and China Expand Joint Bomber Patrols as Strategic Pressure Builds
Evolving military cooperation signals deeper alignment against U.S.-led security architecture

Overview

• Russia and China have steadily expanded joint bomber patrols since 2019, including aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons.

• Patrols have moved beyond East Asia, extending into the Pacific and near Alaska, signaling a broader strategic reach.

• The cooperation reflects a deepening “partnership without limits”, aimed at counterbalancing U.S. and allied military influence.

Key Developments

• The 10th joint air patrol was conducted on December 9 near Japan, under an annual military cooperation plan between Moscow and Beijing.

• Russian Tu-95MS bombers (nuclear-capable) and Chinese H-6K bombers participated, operating within Japan’s and South Korea’s air defense identification zones but outside sovereign airspace.

• Patrol routes have expanded over time, moving from the Sea of Japan into the Philippine Sea, the Chukchi Sea, and the Bering Sea near Alaska.

• Patrol frequency increased starting in 2022, with Russia and China conducting two joint missions per year for the first time.

• Reciprocal landings at each other’s airfields in 2022 marked a milestone in operational trust and coordination.

• The 2024 patrol near Alaska prompted interceptions by U.S. and Canadian fighter jets, underscoring heightened geopolitical sensitivity.

Why It Matters

These patrols reinforce a visible shift toward multipolar security dynamics as Russia and China coordinate military signaling beyond their immediate regions. Even if largely symbolic, the operations challenge U.S. strategic dominance in the Pacific and normalize joint power projection outside traditional theaters.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Escalating military coordination between major nuclear powers increases geopolitical risk premiums across global markets. Heightened security tensions often accelerate capital movement toward neutral reserves, commodities, and alternative settlement systems—placing added pressure on fiat currencies exposed to geopolitical instability.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar: Security Realignment
  Coordinated military presence weakens unilateral enforcement power and supports a multipolar balance of deterrence.

• Pillar: Financial Risk Repricing
  Rising geopolitical friction increases volatility, reinforcing the shift toward hard assets and non-dollar trade mechanisms.

This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Newsweek – “Russia and China’s Nuclear Bomber Cooperation Is Evolving”

• Independent -- "US nuclear-capable bombers carry out joint drill with Japan in response to China-Russia patrols"

~~~~~~~~~~

BRICS Ditches Dollar for Gold as Bloc Tightens Control Over Global Supply
Gold accumulation accelerates as de-dollarization reshapes monetary power

Overview

• BRICS nations now control roughly 50% of global gold production through combined output from member and aligned countries.

• Russia and China lead a multi-year gold accumulation drive, systematically reducing exposure to U.S. dollar assets.

• Central banks purchased over 1,000 tons of gold annually from 2022–2024, marking the longest sustained buying streak in modern history.

Key Developments

• BRICS and aligned producers—including China, Russia, Brazil, South Africa, Kazakhstan, Iran, and Uzbekistan—now dominate global gold supply, shifting pricing influence away from Western markets.

• Collective BRICS gold reserves exceed 6,000 tons, with Russia holding approximately 2,336 tons, China 2,298 tons, and India 880 tons.

• Brazil resumed gold buying in September 2025, adding 16 metric tons—its first purchase since 2021—raising reserves to 145.1 tons.

• A BRICS gold-backed settlement instrument (“Unit”) has entered pilot phase, combining 40% physical gold and 60% member currencies, with each unit pegged to one gram of gold.

• Russia and China now settle nearly all bilateral trade in local currencies, accelerating de-dollarization across Eurasian trade networks.

• BRICS is developing a separate gold pricing benchmark, challenging dollar-based price discovery in global precious metals markets.

Why It Matters

This shift signals a structural reordering of global finance as monetary trust moves from fiat systems toward tangible reserves. By anchoring trade and reserves to gold, BRICS nations are insulating themselves from sanctions risk, dollar volatility, and Western financial leverage—undermining long-standing pillars of U.S.-led monetary dominance.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Foreign currency holders face rising exposure as reserve systems evolve away from dollar dependency. As gold-backed settlement mechanisms expand, currencies lacking hard-asset backing may experience declining demand, reduced liquidity, and long-term valuation pressure—particularly during future financial stress events.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar: Monetary Realignment
  Gold accumulation and gold-linked settlement tools mark a transition away from fiat trust toward asset-backed credibility.

• Pillar: Financial Sovereignty
  Independent pricing systems and local-currency trade weaken dollar enforcement mechanisms and reshape global capital flows.This is not just politics — it’s global finance restructuring before our eyes.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Watcher Guru – “BRICS Ditches Dollar for Gold, Bloc Now Controls 50% of Global Supply”

• World Gold Council – “Central Bank Gold Reserves and Purchasing Trends”

~~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

RV Facts with Proof Links Link

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