How The World Is Starting To Look Like 1492 All Over Again

How The World Is Starting To Look Like 1492 All Over Again

Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black / Sovereign Man) May 14, 2026

In the year 1484, a thirty-something year old sailor from Genoa was working in Lisbon when he stumbled upon a bold idea.  For the previous decade, he had served as a crewman on several Portuguese commercial expeditions to haul physical resources like gold, ivory, and fish from Asia back to European ports.

These voyages were treacherous; they all crossed into maritime territory controlled by the Venetians, Ottomans, or Egyptian Malmuk. So there was a high likelihood of a vessel being confiscated and its crew being captured or killed.

But through his marriage into a Portuguese navigator's family, this sailor had inherited a small library of nautical charts. And he spent years studying them and corresponding with scientists who studied cosmology.

Over time, he became convinced that a small fleet could reach Asia by sailing WEST, not east, and arrive to the spice markets of the Indies without passing through enemy territory.

The sailor’s name was Christopher Columbus. And he took his idea to the King of Portugal, John II.

The King was interested enough to convene a royal panel, but the ‘experts’ decided that Columbus had badly underestimated the size of the Earth and recommended against funding the voyage.

Columbus spent the next several years pitching his idea to anyone who would listen.

He sent his brother to make the case to Henry VII in England. He approached the French court. He crossed the border into Spain, secured an audience with Ferdinand and Isabella at Córdoba, and watched a second royal commission argue for nearly four years... before rejecting him for the same reasons the Portuguese had.

He gave up on Spain and was riding north to try the French court again when a royal courier caught up with him. Ferdinand and Isabella had just taken Granada on January 2, 1492 — a conquest that ended a decade-long war and brought the southern Mediterranean coast and its ports under their control.

With the war finally over and the southern frontier secured, the monarchs had excess cash to fund the next strategic venture.

So in April of that year, at the siege camp of Santa Fe outside Granada, Isabella signed the contract. A few months later, three small ships set sail— with the crew probably all assuming that they would not survive the voyage.

The Spanish crown’s investment paid off... and they spent the next century pulling staggering amounts of silver and gold out of the new continent Columbus had stumbled upon; Spain became the wealthiest power in Europe as a result.

This is how governments used to invest. They were like venture capital funds of their day, financing long-term bets on ports, territory, trade routes, and resources, all in an effort to secure strategic assets that compound over generations.

But for the last eighty years or so, the world has run a different experiment.

After 1945, the United States built a system in which the rest of the world manufactured goods, sold them to American consumers, and recycled their trade surpluses back into US Treasury bonds.

This system worked for decades; in fact the most rational thing a foreign government could do with its national savings was invest in US dollars and US government bonds. Any foreign country with a stockpile of Treasurys was considered stable and creditworthy.

But this system is now cracking. Rapidly.

After the Biden administration froze Russia's dollar reserves in 2022, foreign central banks understood that US government bonds were ‘safe’ only as long as their country stayed on America's good side.

Consequently, most foreign governments have been diversifying out of dollars ever since.

This year's Iran war drove the lesson home: the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway through which roughly a quarter of the world's seaborne oil passes, has been closed since late February.

And every foreign country holding hundreds of billions of US government bonds has been reminded that, no matter how big their Treasury stockpile, they cannot feed their population with it. They cannot fill their people’s gas tanks with it. They cannot power homes with it.

So governments are reconsidering their US dollar positions more than ever.

Just like Ferdinand and Isabella, governments around the world started by acquiring gold; central banks have been buying it at the fastest pace in modern history since 2022.

But gold is only the leading indicator.

The next phase is foreign governments and central banks stockpiling other critical resources and materials— energy, fertilizer, copper, uranium, rare earths, food production, and even fresh water.

These are all strategic assets that no government can conjure out of thin air. And no amount of paper bonds can magically summon.

China has been running this playbook for fifteen years: they’ve purchased farmland in Africa, copper concessions in the Congo, rare-earth processing across central Asia, and the Belt and Road infrastructure that physically connects the resource to the buyer.

A large part of China’s investment capital has come from their steady liquidation of US Treasury holdings.

This is the Columbus-era calculus all over again. Whereas governments around the world used to stockpile US government bonds, they are now stockpiling strategic resources.

One obvious consequence is lower demand for US government bonds— which drives up interest rates, mortgage rates, and more. It probably also leads to a lot more inflation, i.e. the 1970s all over again.

But it also means that these critical resources— and the companies which produce them— should have a very, very bright future as foreign governments throw potentially trillions of dollars at the commodities sector.

This is the primary thesis behind Schiff Sovereign's monthly investment research service, Strategic Assets.

We look for profitable, well-managed real-asset businesses with pristine balance sheets that are trading at a low multiple of free cash flow— with clear catalysts for growth.

And those catalysts include our fragmenting world and the scramble to secure physical, critical assets.

To your freedom,

James Hickman   Co-Founder, Schiff Sovereign LLC

https://www.schiffsovereign.com/investing/how-the-world-is-starting-to-look-like-1492-all-over-again-155156/?inf_contact_key=a6fc5aac6cbe83518ec150142aec6476ae788fd53dbd8435c82ea4a7febc39e6

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Morning 5-14-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

US China Summit Raises Global Stakes: Taiwan Warning Overshadows Trade Progress

Xi Jinping’s sharp warning on Taiwan during high-level trade talks with Donald Trump highlights the fragile balance between economic cooperation and geopolitical rivalry

The Beijing summit revealed that while the world’s two largest economies still depend on each other financially, strategic tensions are intensifying across trade, technology, and military security.

OVERVIEW (KEY POINTS)

Chinese President Xi Jinping and United States President Donald Trump held a high-stakes summit in Beijing aimed at stabilizing trade relations and preventing further deterioration in bilateral ties.

While both sides described recent trade negotiations as constructive, the summit quickly exposed deeper geopolitical divisions centered around Taiwan, semiconductor technology, military positioning, and global influence.

The meeting comes during a period of growing instability in global supply chains, slowing economic growth, and rising pressure on the international financial system. Both nations recognize the importance of avoiding direct confrontation, yet neither appears willing to compromise on core strategic interests.

The broader implication is significant: the relationship between China and the United States is increasingly evolving into a model of competitive coexistence, where cooperation in trade exists alongside expanding geopolitical rivalry.

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1. Trade Negotiations Show Limited Progress

Both governments signaled optimism regarding economic cooperation.

• The United States pushed for increased access to Chinese markets for:

  • Agriculture

  • Energy exports

  • Boeing aircraft sales

  • Manufacturing investment

• China sought relief from restrictions on:

  • Advanced semiconductors

  • Artificial intelligence technologies

  • Chipmaking equipment exports

2. Taiwan Emerges as the Central Flashpoint

Taiwan dominated the strategic portion of the summit.

• Xi warned that mishandling Taiwan could create an “extremely dangerous situation”

• China strongly opposes expanding United States military support for Taiwan

• Reports indicate a proposed $14 billion US arms package for Taiwan remains under consideration

3. Technology Competition Intensifies

Artificial intelligence and semiconductors remain major battlegrounds.

• Washington increasingly views advanced chip exports as a national security issue

• China sees access to high-end technology as critical to long-term economic modernization

• The summit included participation from major technology leaders, reflecting the growing overlap between business and geopolitics

4. Global Security Concerns Expand Beyond Asia

The summit also addressed wider geopolitical risks.

• Discussions included:

  • Iran and Middle East instability

  • The war in Ukraine

  • Korean Peninsula tensions

• Trump reportedly encouraged China to pressure Iran toward broader negotiations

5. Power Dynamics Between Washington and Beijing Continue Shifting

Analysts note China entered the summit from a stronger position than in previous years.

• China now holds greater leverage in:

  • Rare earth supply chains

  • Manufacturing dominance

  • Global infrastructure investment

• Meanwhile, the United States faces:

  • Inflation pressure

  • Political polarization

  • Rising debt concerns

  • Multiple global security commitments

WHY IT MATTERS

The summit matters because China and the United States remain the two most influential forces within the global economy.

Any deterioration in relations between the two countries directly impacts trade flows, technology markets, currency stability, and investor confidence worldwide.

Taiwan, in particular, represents one of the most dangerous geopolitical flashpoints in modern history because it sits at the intersection of military power, semiconductor production, and strategic control in Asia.

The continued rivalry between Washington and Beijing is also accelerating broader global realignment trends, including supply chain diversification, regional trade blocs, and de-dollarization initiatives.

WHY IT MATTERS TO FOREIGN CURRENCY HOLDERS

• Geopolitical instability increases global currency volatility

• Trade tensions may strengthen demand for gold and safe-haven assets

• Asian currencies could face pressure during regional escalation risks

• Supply chain disruptions may impact inflation and purchasing power globally

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE GLOBAL RESET

• Pillar 1: Economic Interdependence No Longer Prevents Rivalry

The summit demonstrates that major powers can remain financially connected while simultaneously competing for technological and geopolitical dominance.

• Pillar 2: Taiwan Becomes a Financial System Risk

Any future Taiwan crisis would impact semiconductor production, global trade routes, energy markets, and central bank stability simultaneously, making it a major systemic risk factor.

CONCLUSION

The Trump-Xi summit highlighted both the necessity and fragility of modern US-China relations.

Trade cooperation continues because both economies remain deeply interconnected, yet strategic distrust surrounding Taiwan, technology, and military positioning continues to grow.

The world is now entering a period where economic partnership and geopolitical confrontation increasingly exist side by side.

How Washington and Beijing manage that balance may ultimately determine the stability of the global financial system for the next decade.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Modern Diplomacy — "Xi Warns Trump on Taiwan as China United States Trade Talks Advance"

• Reuters — "US-China Leaders Hold High-Stakes Beijing Summit Amid Taiwan Tensions"

~~~~~~~~~~

🌱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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Thank you Dinar Recaps

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Thursday Morning 5-14-26

Ahead Of The Vote, Al-Sari Reveals His Program: Sovereign Finances First And A New Era In Salary Distribution.

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad    On Thursday, the nominee for the Ministry of Finance, Faleh Al-Sari, revealed his top priorities and ministerial program in the event of gaining confidence, just hours before the vote of confidence session in the House of Representatives.

Al-Sari said, "The Ministry of Finance will be the number one sovereign ministry in Iraq," adding that he assures all the people of Iraq, especially employees, contract workers and farmers, that their rights will be fully guaranteed.

He stressed that “the Ministry of Finance will be radically different from what it was in the past, and that ministries will no longer operate in isolation from the Ministry of Finance,” ruling out “the possibility of ministries being separate islands that are not connected to each other.”

He continued: "We will not accept that the Ministry of Finance be merely an office for distributing salaries, but rather it will be a fundamental economic ministry that leads all financial and commercial activities in the country."

Regarding digital transformation, Al-Sari explained that "the issue of taxes and customs has made great strides in the field of automation," indicating that "digital transformation and reducing reliance on cash is a key priority for the ministry."

Regarding the ministry's relationship with the House of Representatives, Al-Sari indicated that "based on his parliamentary experience over the past five sessions, he is fully aware of what the representatives are suffering from," announcing the allocation of a special wing for them within the ministry, with the formation of a working team that will receive the representatives and quickly fulfill their requests.

He pointed out that "my approach with the MPs willbe clear and we will meet their demands, provided that they understand the financial and economic situation and the crisis that the country is going through," calling on the House of Representatives, especially the Finance Committee, to cooperate in legislating and amending reform laws, considering the parliament as "my main kitchen" for achieving financial and economic reforms. https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69067

Loaded With Oil And Gas, Nine Ships Have Crossed The Strait Of Hormuz Since Sunday, But Are Under US Blockade.

energy Economy News - Follow-up   Bloomberg reported on Thursday that nine oil and gas tankers have crossed the Strait of Hormuz since last Sunday.

The agency added, citing shipping data, that some of the nine ships remain within the US blockade line in the Strait of Hormuz, amid continuing military and trade tensions in the region.

The agency reported last Tuesday that US forces imposing a naval blockade on Iran prevented a Greek ship carrying about two million barrels of Iraqi oil from continuing its journey to Vietnam for "unknown" reasons, while the Vietnamese government appealed to the United States to allow the oil shipment to proceed.

The Strait of Hormuz region has witnessed escalating tensions since last March, as the vital waterway has turned into a direct military and maritime confrontation between the United States and Iran.https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69065

Iraq Topped The List Of Exports To The Amman Chamber Of Commerce With 188 Million Dinars During 2026

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad   By 22.3 percent, compared to the same period last year, Iraq topped the list of importing countries with a value of 188 million dinars.

According to the Chamber's statistical data, the value of exports issued by the Amman Chamber of Commerce through certificates of origin during the first third of this year amounted to about 492 million dinars, compared to 401 million dinars for the same period in 2025.

The data showed that the number of certificates of origin issued by the chamber during the first third of this year amounted to 10,005 certificates, compared to 10,174 certificates during the same period last year, a decrease of 1.7 percent.

According to the statistics, the certificates of origin were distributed among several countries, with Syria leading with 1903 certificates, followed by Saudi Arabia with 1598 certificates, then Iraq with 1052 certificates, then Egypt with 247 certificates, and Switzerland with 8 certificates.

In terms of value, Iraq came in first place with exports valued at 188 million dinars, followed by Egypt with 29 million dinars, then Switzerland with about 26 million dinars, Syria with 24 million dinars, and Saudi Arabia with about 23 million dinars.

Exports from the Amman Chamber of Commerce during the first third of this year included foreign products ("goods of foreign origin") valued at 201 million dinars, followed by industrial products valued at 69 million dinars.

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69066

Turkish Airlines Resumes Flights To Iraq

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad   The Ministry of Transport announced that the coming months will witness the restoration of full operational capacity at Baghdad International Airport, after a period of suspension and disruption to air traffic as a result of the security developments in the region, revealing that Turkish Airlines will resume its flights to Iraq on Thursday.

The director of the ministry's media office, Maitham Al-Safi, told the official newspaper that air traffic at Baghdad International Airport is witnessing a remarkable improvement and a gradual return to normal, with the resumption of a large number of regular flights by Arab and foreign airlines, coinciding with the continued airlift of pilgrims to the holy lands.

He added that Thursday will see the return of Turkish airlines to operate flights to Iraq, after a hiatus of more than two months, in addition to other countries and companies that will also resume their flights next month, most notably the Sultanate of Oman.

Al-Safi explained that the airport is currently experiencing regularity in daily flight schedules, with a noticeable increase in the number of arriving and departing passengers, stressing that the ministry is seeking to restore the airport’s full operational capacity in the coming months.

He noted that the ministry is continuing its contacts with international airlines to resume all suspended flights during the next phase, in conjunction with plans to develop services at Baghdad International Airport, including travel procedures, logistics and technical services. https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69060

Bloomberg: A giant Japanese oil tanker secretly and rarely crosses the Strait of Hormuz

energy   Economy News - Follow-up     Bloomberg reported that the Japanese supertanker Ineos Endeavour secretly and rarely crossed the Strait of Hormuz, according to ship-tracking website data.

The agency reported that the tanker appeared in the Gulf of Oman after its last signal was inside the Gulf north of Abu Dhabi, suggesting that it crossed the strait without revealing its movements through the usual tracking systems.

According to the data, the tanker resumed broadcasting its location north of the Omani capital, Muscat, late Wednesday evening, heading east towards the Arabian Sea, after its broadcast had been interrupted since last Monday.

Bloomberg noted that the tanker entered the Gulf in late February to load crude oil from the UAE's Das Island and Kuwait's Al-Ahmadi port, while draft readings show it is almost full of cargo.

She added that the tanker had initially identified the Japanese port of Kerry as its destination, before later indicating that it was “awaiting orders,” suggesting that a final port of call has not yet been determined.

The agency indicated that this tanker is the second giant oil tanker owned by a Japanese company to cross the Strait of Hormuz since the outbreak of the war in late February. https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69061

Prices Of Crops, Lentils, And Sour Meat Rose In Iraq During 2025

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad   Data released by the Iraqi Directorate of Agricultural Statistics on Thursday showed that the average prices of several agricultural products rose during 2025 compared to 2024, due to the effects of local inflation, changes in the dollar exchange rate, and openness to imports from foreign markets.

According to the data, the prices of field crops have increased, with wheat recording an increase of 4.9% to reach 510 dinars per kilogram, rice by 4.4% to 940 dinars, and barley by 3.8% to 436 dinars, while okra prices increased by 3.6% and tomatoes by 1.9%.

In the fruit sector, the price of lemons rose by 3% to reach 3034 dinars per kilogram, while pomegranates recorded an increase of 0.8% and peaches by 0.7%, in contrast to a decrease in the prices of some varieties, including apples and olives.

Date prices also recorded an increase, with Barhi dates rising by 3% to reach 2032 dinars per kilogram, and Maktoom by 3.2% to 1755 dinars.

In the meat sector, red meat prices rose, with lamb prices increasing by 3.2% and beef by 3.1%, while chicken prices fell by 7.2% to reach 2,900 dinars per kilogram.

The report indicated that the rise in prices is due to local inflation and the change in the dollar exchange rate, as well as the increase in imports from Arab and foreign markets, which was reflected in the price movement in Iraqi markets.

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69068

Iraq News Posted by Tishwash at TNT 5-14-2026

TNT:

Tishwash:  Vietnam has asked the United States to allow an Iraqi oil tanker to pass

 Vietnam's oil company has warned that the disruption of the Agio Fanurios, carrying Basra oil, could disrupt operations at the Nghi Sun refinery and damage millions of consumers. US forces have blocked the ship in the Strait of Hormuz.

Vietnam has asked the United States to allow an oil tanker carrying Iraqi oil to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, the BBC reported. 

The ship, named Agio Fanurios, was carrying two million barrels of Iraqi crude oil from the port of Basra, the channel said.

As for the reason for the interception, the US Central Command said it had changed the direction of the ship as part of the implementation of sanctions against Iran. 

Meanwhile, Vietnam has said that the oil inventories of the Nghi Sun refinery have decreased significantly and if the shipment does not arrive, the refinery will be disrupted, damaging millions of consumers and the country's industrial sector.

The Vietnamese oil company said the oil belonged to Iraqi SOMO and had nothing to do with Iran.

It is unclear whether the United States will allow the ship to pass.  link

Tishwash:  Here’s Why 27 May Is Now Critical For Iraq’s Future And The West’s Middle East

Iraq’s Iran-aligned Coordination Framework nominated businessman Ali al-Zaidi as prime minister-designate, but he faces a difficult 30-day deadline to form a cabinet balancing pro-Iran factions, Kurdish and Sunni blocs, and U.S. pressure.

If Zaidi fails, Iraq’s constitution allows the president to nominate another candidate while caretaker PM Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani remains in office.

Iraq’s political future remains tied to the broader U.S.-Iran power struggle, with Washington, Tehran, Russia, and China all competing for influence

After more than five months of political cajolery, threats, and infighting since Iraq’s 11 November parliamentary elections – the seventh since Saddam Hussein’s fall in 2003 – an erstwhile obscure businessman, Ali al-Zaidi, has been selected as the Prime Minister-designate of the governing Iran-aligned Shia Coordination Framework bloc.

Regarded as a compromise candidate between more pro-West sitting Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani, and one of his predecessors, the pro-Iran Nouri al-Maliki, al-Zaidi now has until 27 May to form a government. This is done by selecting a cabinet, which must, in turn, be approved by Iraq’s parliament (the Council of Representatives). So, what happens if, as occurred in 2020, he as Prime Minister-designate cannot do so, and what happens if he can?

A cornerstone of Iraq’s 2005 Constitution was the safeguarding against the re-emergence of a single dominant force in Iraqi politics, especially any resurgence of Saddam Hussein’s Ba’ath Party.

This meant a dispersal of executive power between three key jobs – Prime Minister, President, and Speaker of Parliament. These have traditionally been split between the three main groups in the country -- the Prime Ministership for the Shia Arabs (the largest demographic group), the Presidency for the Kurds (occupying the semi-autonomous state in the North), and the Speakership of Parliament for the Sunni Arabs (the other principal religious grouping).

Although this power structure has indeed prevented any meaningful revival of the Ba’ath Party, it has also complicated what on the face of it looks a straightforward and quick procedure for choosing a new premier.

According to the constitution, once the general election results have been verified, the president asks the newly elected parliament to meet within 15 days. In that first gathering, parliament elects a speaker and two deputies by a simple majority vote. It can then choose a new president – provided there is a two-thirds majority for a single candidate -- or extend the sitting president’s term. Once this has been finalised, the new president authorises the bloc that holds the most seats in the new parliament to form a cabinet led by its chosen nominee for prime minister.

So what happens if al-Zaidi is unable to form a new government by 27 May?

Under Article 76 of the Constitution, the President (Patriotic Union of Kurdistan member and former Environment Minister, Nizar Amedi) has 15 days from the date of the deadline’s expiration (taking us to 11 June) to task another candidate with forming the Council of Ministers. The new nominee then receives their own 30-day window to present a cabinet and government programme to the Council of Representatives, and so the process would continue until any of the subsequent Prime Minister-designates can form a new government.

In 2020, two consecutive Prime Minister-designates failed to take office after proving unable to assemble a cabinet with parliamentary support. In the interim period, the outgoing government – currently led by al-Sudani – would continue to function in a caretaker capacity to prevent a political vacuum.  link

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Tishwash:  The President of the Republic affirms the importance of supporting the private sector as a key partner in economic development.

President Nizar Amidi emphasized the importance of supporting the private sector and enabling it to play its vital role as a key partner in economic development.

The Presidential Media Office stated in a press release: "President Nizar Amidi received today, Wednesday, Abdullah al-Jubouri, Vice Chairman of the Permanent Council for Private Sector Development."

During the meeting, al-Jubouri provided a detailed explanation of the Council's work, its responsibilities, and the economic vision it seeks to achieve, in accordance with developmental paths aligned with the state's development plans, contributing to supporting the national economy and strengthening the private sector's role in the development process.

The President stressed the importance of supporting the private sector and enabling it to fulfill its vital role as a key partner in economic development, emphasizing the need to create a suitable investment environment and remove obstacles facing businesspeople and investors, thereby contributing to achieving sustainable development, diversifying income sources, and reducing reliance on traditional resources.

He also pointed to the importance of strengthening the partnership between the public and private sectors and supporting economic initiatives that contribute to creating job opportunities and stimulating productive activity, in line with the priorities of economic reform and achieving comprehensive development.

For his part, Al-Jubouri expressed his appreciation for the President's interest in the private sector, affirming the Council's continued work on presenting initiatives and proposals that would support economic activity and strengthen the partnership between the public and private sectors, serving the national interest and enhancing economic stability in the country.  link

Tishwash:    In Washington, there is talk of developing relations with Baghdad and activating the "framework" agreement.

Mustafa Hashim 

The opening session of "Iraqi Dialogue Day," hosted by the Atlantic Council in Washington, was held on Wednesday. The focus was on the nature of developing the relationship between the two countries and how Iraqi delegations can contribute to this, with reference to the Strategic Framework Agreement and its activation.

Victoria Taylor, director of the Iraq program at the Atlantic Council, confirmed during the session, which was attended by a correspondent from Shafaq News Agency, that the relationship between Baghdad and Washington is going through a major transitional phase, especially with the approaching end of the international coalition’s mission (Operation Inherent Resolve) and the reduction of the American military presence.

She added that "the security element has been the main pillar of the relationship for the past 20 years, but current circumstances necessitate a change in this approach."

 She indicated that "there is currently a strong logic to focus on the business and investment sector, especially since the current US administration is interested in making economic deals," while expressing her concern about the decline in the level of exchange between the two countries, saying: "We are no longer in the days when the US president would make weekly calls to candidates or Iraqi leaders."

She called for increased visits by Iraqi delegations to Washington to explain the issues and understand the nature of the current American focus.

For his part, former Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari stressed that "the failure to develop relations was not due to a lack of legal tools, but rather to the absence of political will in previous periods."

Zebari strongly defended the Strategic Framework Agreement, which he helped negotiate, stressing that it would have provided Iraq with gains that "countries in the region would envy," if it had been properly utilized.

Zebari attributed the failure to activate the agreement to "laziness or lack of interest" on the part of subsequent Iraqi governments, which did not follow up on its provisions as they should have.

He noted that "the current US administration seems more serious and specific about the problems in Iraq," stressing that officials in Baghdad have begun to feel Washington's seriousness in dealing with the outstanding issues, despite the "utilitarian" nature that may sometimes characterize the dealings  link

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Wednesday Evening 5-13-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

China Gains Strategic Edge as Iran War Reshapes Global Power Balance

Growing concerns inside Washington suggest the Iran conflict may be accelerating a broader shift in global influence, energy markets, and financial power structures.

Overview

A reported U.S. intelligence assessment delivered to senior military leadership warns that the ongoing Iran conflict is “massively improving China’s geopolitical position” while increasing long-term strain on the United States economically, militarily, and diplomatically.

According to reports referenced by multiple media outlets, U.S. analysts believe Beijing is benefiting from the war without directly entering the conflict. China is reportedly gaining valuable military intelligence, expanding energy influence, strengthening ties across the Global South, and positioning itself as a stabilizing economic alternative while the United States absorbs the direct costs of prolonged military operations.

The developments arrive as global markets remain highly sensitive to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, rising inflation pressures, and escalating competition between major powers over trade, energy, and currency influence.

Key Developments

1. U.S. Intelligence Warns China Is Benefiting Strategically

A reported intelligence assessment prepared for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff concluded that the Iran war is creating significant advantages for China across multiple domains including military intelligence, diplomacy, energy leverage, and economic influence.

The report reportedly used the DIME framework — Diplomatic, Informational, Military, and Economic — to evaluate how Beijing is capitalizing on the conflict while avoiding direct military entanglement.

Analysts believe China is closely studying U.S. military operations in real time, including logistics, missile defense systems, cyber capabilities, intelligence coordination, and operational pacing. This information could potentially provide strategic insight relevant to future tensions involving Taiwan or the Indo-Pacific region.

2. Energy Disruptions Increase China’s Global Leverage

The continuing instability surrounding the Strait of Hormuz has intensified fears regarding long-term global energy security.

With oil flows disrupted and shipping uncertainty rising, China has reportedly positioned itself as a more stable economic partner for countries seeking alternative supply arrangements and infrastructure cooperation.

At the same time, Beijing continues maintaining relationships with both Gulf states and Iran, allowing it to expand influence across multiple sides of the regional conflict without direct confrontation.

The crisis highlights how energy security is increasingly becoming a geopolitical weapon, with major powers competing not only militarily but also through control of trade routes, commodities, and financial systems.

3. Concerns Grow Over U.S. Resource Depletion

The intelligence assessment reportedly raised concerns regarding the rapid consumption of U.S. precision-guided munitions, missile interceptors, and operational resources during the conflict.

Military analysts fear that prolonged engagement in the Middle East could weaken readiness for future strategic challenges elsewhere, particularly in the Indo-Pacific theater.

This issue carries broader economic implications because large-scale military operations increase federal expenditures at a time when the United States is already facing historically elevated debt levels, persistent inflation pressures, and growing scrutiny from BRICS nations seeking alternatives to Western financial dominance.

4. China Expands Diplomatic Influence Across the Global South

The report also reportedly concluded that China is using the conflict to strengthen its diplomatic narrative globally.

Beijing continues presenting itself as a supporter of stability, trade continuity, and non-intervention, contrasting its messaging against perceptions of Western military escalation.

This strategy may strengthen China’s influence among developing economies already exploring alternatives to the U.S.-led financial system, particularly within BRICS and broader Global South trade initiatives.

The timing is especially significant as China continues expanding cross-border yuan settlement systems, commodity agreements, and infrastructure partnerships outside traditional Western institutions.

Why It Matters

The reported assessment reflects growing concern inside Washington that the Iran conflict may be accelerating larger structural changes already underway in the global system.

Rather than remaining a regional war, the crisis increasingly appears tied to:

• Energy market realignment

• Strategic competition between the U.S. and China

• Growing BRICS influence

• Currency diversification efforts

• Rising pressure on Western financial systems

• Expansion of alternative payment networks

The situation also demonstrates how modern geopolitical conflicts now directly influence inflation, central bank policy, sovereign debt markets, and long-term reserve currency confidence.

Why It Matters to Currency Holders

For foreign currency holders and global reset observers, the developments are significant because they reinforce the accelerating connection between:

• Geopolitical instability

• Energy disruptions

• Debt expansion

• Inflation pressures

• Currency diversification

• Global power redistribution

As major economies increasingly weaponize trade routes, sanctions, commodities, and financial infrastructure, more countries may continue exploring systems that reduce dependence on the traditional dollar-based order.

While the U.S. dollar remains dominant globally, ongoing geopolitical fragmentation is placing increasing focus on multi-currency trade systems, gold accumulation, yuan settlement mechanisms, and BRICS financial cooperation.

Implications for the Global Financial Reset

• Pillar 1:  Strategic Wars Are Becoming Economic Wars

Modern conflicts increasingly impact energy flows, inflation, interest rates, debt markets, and reserve currency confidence simultaneously.

• Pillar 2:  China Is Expanding Influence Without Direct Military Engagement

The reported intelligence concerns suggest Beijing may be leveraging global instability to expand long-term influence while avoiding direct battlefield costs.

• Pillar 3:  Global Financial Fragmentation Continues Accelerating

As geopolitical rivalry deepens, more nations may pursue trade diversification, alternative settlement systems, and regional economic alliances outside traditional Western frameworks.

Closing Thoughts

The reported U.S. intelligence assessment underscores how the Iran conflict may be reshaping far more than Middle Eastern security dynamics.

What began as a regional military confrontation increasingly appears tied to a broader transformation involving energy security, strategic competition, reserve currencies, global trade architecture, and the future balance of financial power.

In today’s interconnected world, geopolitical conflicts no longer remain isolated events. They increasingly act as catalysts accelerating deeper economic and monetary shifts already underway beneath the surface of the global system.

This is not just a regional conflict — it is part of a larger global restructuring of power, energy, and finance.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters — “Iran war looms over Trump’s China visit, shifts alliances”

• The Washington Post — “China gains major edge on U.S. amid Iran war, intelligence report find

~~~~~~~~~~

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Evening 5-13-26

Exclusive: US warning: Iraq has only five months' worth of "financial buffers" to avoid "the mother of all crises".

2026-05-13 Shafaq News – Washington   Mustafa Hashim   On Wednesday, economist Ziad Dawood painted a "bleak" picture of the future of the Iraqi economy in light of the sharp fluctuations in global oil prices, warning that the country could find itself facing "bitter choices" within a few months if the growing financial gap is not addressed.

In remarks made during economic discussions at the Iraq Dialogue Day at the Atlantic Council in Washington, which was attended by a correspondent from Shafaq News Agency, Dawood explained that Iraq is currently experiencing a state of "excessive dependence" on oil revenues, which makes its budget more vulnerable to external shocks than it was in the crises of 2008, 2014 and 2020.

Salaries And Currency Value

Dawood defined the concept of "economic crisis" in Iraq with two main axes that represent the existential obligations of the state:

1.   Currency stability: Maintaining the dinar's peg to the dollar at its current levels.

2.   Salaries and obligations: The ability to pay employee salaries, wages, and pensions without delay.

Daoud warned that failing to meet either of these commitments would mean entering "the mother of all crises," stressing that the process of "currency revaluation" (devaluing the currency) is a painful process economically and socially.

Narrow Safety Margin

The economist presented a detailed calculation to estimate the length of time Iraq could withstand the decline in oil revenues:

Reserves: the central bank of iraq has approximately $100 billion.

Currency Cover: To ensure the stability of the dinar and maintain the circulating money supply, the central bank needs to allocate about $75 billion as cover.

Available Surplus: Iraq practically has only $25 billion left that can be used to cover the deficit.

Payroll: The annual cost of salaries and pensions is approximately $64 billion, which is equivalent to about $5.3 billion per month.

The result: According to Dawood, the available surplus ($25 billion) is only enough to cover salaries for five months in the event of a sharp interruption or decline in oil revenues, before the country reaches "the brink of collapse".

Post-World Cup Predictions

Dawood indicated that Iraq may experience a period of relative stability until next July, coinciding with the celebrations for the 2026 World Cup, but he expressed deep concern about the price levels and economic pressures that will follow this period.

He concluded his statement by emphasizing that Iraq faces "difficult choices," as dependence on oil has increased rather than decreased, making any disruption in global markets a direct threat to the social and economic stability of Iraqis.

https://www.shafaq.com/ar/اقتصـاد/خاص-تحذير-ميركي-العراق-يمتلك-مصدات-مالية-لخمسة-شهر-فقط-لتفادي-م-ال-زمات

Ahmed Al-Basheer ridicules Iraq’s political system as Al-Zaidi nomination fuels criticism

2026-05-13 / 15:49   Shafaq News- Washington   Iraqi political satirist Ahmed Al-Basheer on Wednesday delivered a public critique of Iraq’s post-2003 political order, mocking the opaque rise of businessman Ali Al-Zaidi toward the premiership and arguing that elections in Iraq have become little more than a ceremonial exercise overshadowed by elite bargaining and foreign influence.

 Speaking during a session hosted by the Atlantic Council, Al-Basheer said Iraqis were introduced to Al-Zaidi’s candidacy with almost no public understanding of who he was politically. “We woke up one morning to headlines saying Ali Al-Zaidi would become the next prime minister,” he said. “Honestly, I had never heard of him as a politician. I only knew him as a businessman whose food products I personally buy abroad.”

 The comedian then turned the discussion into a broader indictment of Iraq’s political culture. “We know nothing about this man,” he continued. “Is he Islamist? Liberal? Atheist? Nobody knows because he has never even given an interview. We are dealing with a ghost prime minister. We do not even know what his voice sounds like. The voice we eventually hear could literally be AI.”

Read more: Who is Ali Al-Zaidi? The businessman tapped for Iraq's premiership

 Drawing laughter from the audience, Al-Basheer mocked the media image circulated of Al-Zaidi, saying he had expected “the traditional Iraqi political figure with a thick moustache and an old-fashioned suit,” only to find someone who “looks more like your friend from a café smoking shisha than the man expected to run a country drowning in crises.”

But the sharpest part of Al-Basheer’s remarks targeted the political system itself rather than Al-Zaidi personally. He argued that Iraqi elections have steadily lost meaning because real power lies in closed-door negotiations among party leaders and regional actors.

 “Since 2005, Iraqis vote in one direction and America or Iran pushes things in another,” he said. “We exhaust ourselves with purple ink [elections] while nine political leaders sit in a room deciding who comes next. Why continue this game at all?”

 Al-Basheer described parliament as a “gold mine” for comedy, portraying lawmakers as figures driven less by policy conviction than by instructions from party leadership.

 “Our MPs suddenly become guardians of morality when a woman wearing a short skirt appears on television,” he said sarcastically. “But on oil, corruption, and stolen money, they turn into puppets waiting for WhatsApp instructions.”

 The Iraqi presenter also painted a bleak picture of media freedom inside the country, arguing that most television channels operate as extensions of political factions rather than independent institutions. “Yes, Iraq has hundreds of channels,” he said. “But they function exactly like our democracy. Every outlet attacks the rival side only until political deals are reached. Once agreements happen, the ‘freedom of expression’ disappears overnight.”

He added that his ability to criticize political figures openly was tied largely to the fact that he lives outside Iraq.

 Still, Al-Basheer surprised some attendees by saying that the era of former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki witnessed broader tolerance toward media criticism than later periods. “I criticized al-Maliki relentlessly and he never pursued me legally,” he said.

Despite his criticism, Al-Basheer ended on a more hopeful note, saying meaningful change in Iraq would ultimately come from society itself rather than from outside intervention.

 He also recalled receiving a phone call from former Prime Minister Haider Al-Abadi after Al-Abadi left office, during which Al-Abadi thanked him for exposing “the snakes” surrounding his administration, despite years of criticism directed at him on the show.

 “I once believed one sentence could change the country overnight,” he said. “Now I believe change takes time. Iraqis will eventually reclaim their country from corruption and militias, just as the October protest movement surprised all of us. No Iron Man is coming to save Iraq —Iraqis will have to do it themselves.”

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Ahmed-Al-Basheer-ridicules-Iraq-s-political-system-as-Al-Zaidi-nomination-fuels-criticism

A Kurdistan Democratic Party MP Told Rudaw: Oil And Gas Law Talks Between Baghdad And Erbil Have Reached The Point Of Agreement

Keywords: Oil and Gas Law Rudaw Digital    Iraq's economy is almost 90% dependent on oil production, yet remarkably, there is still no specific law governing oil and gas. Most political parties believe that the absence of such a law has been a source of tension between Erbil and Baghdad. Enacting such a law would be key to resolving many of the issues between the two sides.

Hakim Farouk, a member of parliament from the Kurdistan Democratic Party bloc, told Rudaw Media Network that the oil and gas law has been discussed and "extensive talks have taken place, reaching the point of agreement."

For nearly two decades, the oil and gas bill in parliament has not been passed; the Kurdistan Democratic Party’s condition for participating in the new Iraqi government was the passage of this law.

Hakim Farouk, a member of parliament from the Kurdistan Democratic Party bloc, told Rudaw Media Network: “During both Ali al-Zaidi and Nechirvan Barzani’s visits to Baghdad, the oil and gas law was discussed, as well as the need to pass it as soon as possible and in the next legislative session. Many talks were held on the matter, which reached the point of agreement.”

Hakim Farouk - Member of Parliament for the Kurdistan Democratic Party bloc

 In 2007 and 2011, two different drafts of the Iraqi Oil and Gas Law were prepared, but they were not passed due to disagreements between Baghdad and Erbil, and now attempts are continuing once again to amend them.

 Shaker Mahmoud Abu Turab, a member of parliament from the Fatah Alliance, told Rudaw Media Network that "there are many problems that need to be amended, and this will become apparent when they are presented and discussed. They are currently in the drawers of the House of Representatives.

We - the Badr Bloc - have two important laws as our priorities: the Popular Mobilization Forces Law and the Oil and Gas Law. There are other laws, but these two are the most important."

Shaker Mahmoud Abu Turab - Member of Parliament for the Fatah Alliance

 The draft currently in the Iraqi parliament is the 2011 draft law consisting of 49 articles; according to the principles of this draft, the “Federal Council for Oil and Gas” must be formed, which is responsible for determining oil policy in Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region will have a representative in it at the level of a minister.https://www.rudawarabia.net/arabic/middleeast/iraq/110520262

Al-Zaydi And The Dollar: Expectations Of A Breakthrough In The Exchange Market

2026-05-13 02:43 Shafaq News – Sulaymaniyah    An economic expert predicted on Wednesday that the formation of the new Iraqi government would contribute to lowering the dollar exchange rate against the dinar in local markets, noting that there was an expected “American support” that would positively affect the financial market.

Sulaymaniyah currency market spokesman Jabbar Goran told Shafaq News Agency that the resumption of government projects after the formation of the government will lead to an increase in spending in Iraqi dinars and a full return of the ministries’ activity, which will boost demand for the local currency and support the stability of the exchange rate.

He added that the United States renewed its support for the formation of the government of Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi, considering that this support gives a "positive signal" to the financial markets, provided that no new tensions or wars occur in the region.

He explained that there was confusion surrounding the news regarding the "stopping of dollar transfers" from the United States to Iraq, indicating that Baghdad had requested the transfer of part of the surplus oil revenues deposited in JPMorgan Chase Bank and subject to the supervision of the US Treasury Department.

He pointed out that Iraq does not need all of its oil revenues immediately, so part of them is kept in the United States, noting that Washington informed Baghdad that it would postpone the transfer of additional funds until after the formation of the new government.

Goran predicted that the exchange rate of 100 dollars would fall to less than 150,000 dinars in the coming period, if regional conditions stabilize and there is no security or military escalation.

He stressed that the natural difference between the official price of 132,000 dinars per 100 dollars and the market price should remain within the limits of 12,000 to 13,000 dinars only.

https://www.shafaq.com/ar/اقتصـاد/الزيدي-والدولار-توقعات-بانفراجة-مرتقبة-في-سوق-الصرف

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Wednesday Afternoon 5-13-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

Global Inflation Shock and BRICS Tensions Accelerate Pressure on the Financial System

Rising energy prices, surging bond yields, and deepening geopolitical divisions are increasing fears of a structural shift in the global economy

Markets reacted sharply today as inflation concerns intensified, oil remained elevated above $100, and BRICS ministers prepared for emergency discussions overshadowed by the Iran conflict

Overview (Key Points)

Global financial markets faced renewed volatility today as investors reacted to:

• Surging U.S. inflation data

• Rising Treasury and bond yields

• Elevated oil prices tied to Middle East instability

• Growing geopolitical divisions within BRICS nations

Analysts increasingly warn that the combination of persistent inflation, geopolitical fragmentation, and weakening confidence in long-term debt sustainability may accelerate structural changes already underway in the international financial system.

Key Developments

1. Inflation Surges Again as Oil Shock Spreads Through Global Markets

Fresh U.S. inflation data released today showed producer prices rising at their fastest pace since 2022, intensifying fears that the global economy may be entering another prolonged inflationary cycle.

The U.S. Producer Price Index surged 1.4% in April, significantly above expectations, while annual producer inflation climbed to 6.0%.

Markets reacted immediately:

• Treasury yields climbed sharply

• The U.S. dollar strengthened

• Bond markets sold off

• Expectations for future rate cuts declined dramatically

Investors now increasingly believe the Federal Reserve may keep interest rates elevated longer than previously expected.

2. Oil Prices Remain Above $100 Amid Hormuz Crisis

Oil markets remained highly volatile as ongoing instability involving Iran and the Strait of Hormuz continued threatening global energy flows.

Brent crude hovered near $106–$108 per barrel, while analysts warned that any further disruption to Gulf shipping lanes could rapidly trigger another major energy spike.

Although prices eased slightly during trading, markets remain extremely sensitive to developments involving:

• The Iran conflict

• Maritime security

• U.S.–China diplomacy

• Global supply disruptions

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

The International Energy Agency also warned that supply conditions are tightening as Middle East disruptions continue impacting production and transportation networks.

3. European Central Bank Signals More Rate Hikes

The inflation surge is no longer limited to the United States.

A Reuters poll released today showed that economists now widely expect the European Central Bank to continue raising interest rates as energy-driven inflation spreads across Europe.

The ECB is expected to raise rates again in June, with some analysts warning that inflation could remain structurally elevated if oil prices stay high.

This creates growing concerns about:

• Slowing European growth

• Rising sovereign debt costs

• Increased pressure on banking systems

• Weakening consumer demand

4. BRICS Meeting Overshadowed by Iran Conflict and Internal Divisions

The upcoming BRICS foreign ministers meeting in New Delhi is now expected to focus heavily on the economic and geopolitical fallout from the Iran war.

The expanded BRICS alliance includes:

• China

• Russia

• India

• Brazil

• South Africa

• Iran

• UAE

• Egypt

• Ethiopia

• Indonesia

However, deep divisions within the bloc are emerging as some member nations support Iran while others maintain closer ties with Gulf states and Western economies.

The conflict is increasing pressure on BRICS nations already pursuing:

• Local currency trade settlement

• Reduced dollar dependence

• Alternative payment systems

• Greater economic fragmentation from Western-led institutions

5. Global Markets Increasingly Price in Long-Term Instability

Financial markets today reflected growing concern that geopolitical instability is becoming a permanent feature of the global economy rather than a temporary disruption.

Rising inflation, elevated energy costs, and tightening monetary policy are beginning to reinforce one another across multiple regions simultaneously.

Analysts warn this environment resembles elements of previous stagflationary periods where:

• Growth slows

• Inflation remains elevated

• Debt burdens increase

• Monetary flexibility weakens

Why It Matters

Today’s developments highlight how interconnected the modern financial system has become with geopolitics and energy security.

The combination of:

• Persistent inflation

• Rising debt costs

• Geopolitical fragmentation

• Commodity volatility

is increasing stress across both developed and emerging economies.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Periods of sustained inflation and geopolitical uncertainty often lead to:

• Increased currency volatility

• Pressure on reserve currencies

• Greater diversification efforts

• Rising demand for alternative settlement systems

Several nations continue exploring mechanisms designed to reduce exposure to Western financial infrastructure.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Inflation and Debt Pressures Are Reshaping Monetary Policy

Central banks worldwide are increasingly constrained between controlling inflation and preventing economic slowdown.

• Pillar 2: Geopolitical Fragmentation Is Accelerating Financial Realignment

The growing divide between Western powers and emerging economic blocs continues pushing the world toward a more multipolar financial structure.

Conclusion

Today’s inflation data, oil market volatility, and BRICS tensions reinforce the reality that the global economy is entering a period of heightened structural uncertainty.

What began as regional geopolitical instability is increasingly influencing:

• Monetary policy

• Global trade flows

• Energy security

• Currency systems

• Sovereign debt markets

As inflation, energy disruption, and geopolitical rivalry continue converging, pressure on the existing financial order is likely to intensify throughout 2026.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters — “Global equities rise modestly with the dollar, bond yields as US inflation soars”

• Reuters — “Iran war to cast a shadow on BRICS foreign ministers meeting in Delhi”

~~~~~~~~~~

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Some “Iraq News” Posted by Tishwash at TNT 5-13-2026

TNT:

Tishwash:  Prime Minister-designate Ali Faleh al-Zaidi receives the European Union Ambassador to Iraq

Prime Minister-designate Ali Faleh al-Zaidi received on Tuesday the European Union Ambassador to Iraq, Clemens Smutner, who delivered a message from the EU countries expressing their support for the new government and their willingness to work with it in various fields.

 During the meeting, the prospects for cooperation relations between Iraq and the European Union countries were discussed, as well as ways to enhance them within the framework of bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding, and the future vision in a way that promotes mutual interests and benefits.

 The meeting also witnessed discussions on regional and international issues and files of common interest, and emphasized the importance of intensifying joint work to achieve stability and development, and to preserve regional and international security.  link

Tishwash: Al-Zidi is close to gaining confidence and forming a strong government with the support of all parties in Iraq.

Political analyst Ahmed Al-Tamimi confirmed on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) that the current disagreements between political forces regarding the distribution of ministerial portfolios are a natural part of the negotiations process for forming governments in Iraq, predicting that the political forces will succeed in passing Ali Al-Zidi’s government during this week.

Al-Tamimi told Baghdad Today that the political process has become accustomed to intensive rounds of negotiations and political bargaining related to the distribution of sovereign and service ministries, noting that current indicators show advanced understandings between political blocs towards resolving the cabinet and voting on it within Parliament.

He explained that the political forces are aware of the sensitivity of the current stage and the country’s need for a fully empowered government, therefore the disputes raised fall within the framework of traditional political competition and do not reach the level of disrupting or thwarting the formation of the government.

He added that there is an internal and external desire to end the state of executive vacuum and to expedite the granting of confidence to the new government, noting that some objections related to names or ministerial quotas may be resolved in the last hours before the voting session, as happened in previous government experiences.

Al-Tamimi indicated that passing Ali al-Zaidi’s government is “closer than ever,” especially in light of the initial agreements between the main political forces, explaining that the next stage will depend to a large extent on the ability of the new government to achieve political balances and present a government program capable of addressing service and economic issues.

He stressed that the success of the next government will also be linked to its ability to calm the street and enhance internal stability, in light of the economic, service and security challenges facing the country.

For weeks, the political arena has witnessed intense activity among political blocs and alliances to resolve the issue of forming the new government, amid internal and external anticipation of the nature of the ministerial lineup and the political and economic program that will be adopted in the next phase.  link

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

Tishwash:  The most complex issue awaits resolution: Oil: The oil and gas law is the key to stability between Baghdad and Erbil.

 The spokesman for the Iraqi Ministry of Oil, Sahib Bazoun, confirmed on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) that the oil and gas file between Baghdad and Erbil will not witness complete stability until the oil and gas law is approved within the House of Representatives, noting that there are existing understandings between the federal government and the region regarding the management of the oil file.

Bazoun told Baghdad Today that there is an agreement and a political decision between the two sides, but that enacting the oil and gas law during the current parliamentary session represents the most important step to ensure the stability of the oil relationship and preserve the rights of all parties.

He explained that oil still constitutes about 90% of the Iraqi state’s imports, which makes this file a top priority for the next government, noting that the Prime Minister-designate, Ali al-Zaidi, has placed among his priorities the diversification of the state’s sources of income and the reduction of dependence on oil revenues, as he is “an economist.”

Bazoun pointed out that the Ministry of Oil is working to revitalize and expand oil export outlets, stressing the reactivation of the Ceyhan and Banias port outlets, in addition to proceeding with the activation of the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline with an export capacity of up to one and a half million barrels per day.

He added that the relative calm witnessed in the Strait of Hormuz during the past month helped in exporting two oil shipments, expressing his optimism about the improvement of conditions and the stability of export activity during the coming period.

Regarding strategic alternative plans, Bazoun revealed that the ministry has begun implementing the Basra-Haditha pipeline project, a strategic project with a capacity of two and a half million barrels per day and a diameter of 56 inches.

He explained that the importance of the project is not limited to transporting crude oil, but extends to supplying refineries located along the pipeline in the south, center and north with petroleum products, as well as enabling Iraq in the future to export oil through multiple outlets including Türkiye, Syria and Jordan via the port of Aqaba.

He confirmed that the project has already entered into force at an estimated cost of about five billion dollars, of which one and a half billion dollars have been allocated so far, noting that the work is proceeding "very normally" according to the plans set.

The Oil and Gas Law is one of the most prominent controversial laws postponed in Iraq since 2005, as it is related to regulating the management of oil wealth and the distribution of revenues between the federal government, the Kurdistan Region and the producing governorates, amid repeated political and economic demands to resolve it in order to end the disputes related to oil exports and contracts.  link

Tishwash:  Oil and gas law: Will the current parliamentary session succeed in resolving one of the most complex issues?

The oil and gas law is imposing itself as one of the most sensitive issues within the Iraqi scene, amid increasing questions about the ability of political forces to pass it during the current parliamentary session.

The spokesman for the Iraqi Ministry of Oil, Sahib Bazoun, confirmed on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) that the oil and gas file between Baghdad and Erbil will not witness complete stability until the oil and gas law is approved within the House of Representatives, noting that there are existing understandings between the federal government and the region regarding the management of the oil file.

Bazoun said that there is an agreement and a political decision between the two parties, but that enacting the oil and gas law during the current parliamentary session represents the most important step to ensure the stability of the oil relationship and preserve the rights of all parties.

He explained that oil still constitutes about 90% of the Iraqi state’s revenues, which makes this issue a top priority for the next government.

He then pointed out that the Prime Minister-designate, Ali al-Zaidi, had placed among his priorities the diversification of the state’s sources of income and the reduction of dependence on oil revenues, in his capacity as an “economist.”

Bazoun pointed out that the Ministry of Oil is working to revitalize and expand oil export outlets, stressing the reactivation of the Ceyhan and Banias port outlets, in addition to proceeding with the activation of the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline with an export capacity of up to one and a half million barrels per day.

He added that the relative calm witnessed in the Strait of Hormuz during the past month helped in exporting two oil shipments, expressing his optimism about the improvement of conditions and the stability of export activity during the coming period.

Regarding strategic alternative plans, Bazoun revealed that the ministry has begun implementing the Basra-Haditha pipeline project, a strategic project with a capacity of two and a half million barrels per day and a diameter of 56 inches.

He explained that the importance of the project is not limited to transporting crude oil, but extends to supplying refineries located along the pipeline in the south, center and north with petroleum products , as well as enabling Iraq in the future to export oil through multiple outlets including Turkey, Syria and Jordan via the port of Aqaba.

He confirmed that the project has already entered into force at an estimated cost of about five billion dollars, of which one and a half billion dollars have been allocated so far, noting that the work is proceeding “very normally” according to the plans set.

The Oil and Gas Law is one of the most prominent controversial laws postponed in Iraq since 2005, as it is related to regulating the management of oil wealth and the distribution of revenues between the federal government, the Kurdistan Region and the producing governorates, amid repeated political and economic demands to resolve it in order to end the disputes related to oil exports and contracts. link

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Morning 5-13-26

Transportation: Detailed Designs For The Development Road Are Nearing Completion

Money and Business    Economy News – Baghdad   The Ministry of Transport is nearing completion of the detailed designs for the Development Road project, in preparation for presenting it to major international companies specializing in infrastructure, transport and logistics services.

The director of the media office at the ministry, Maitham Al-Safi, explained in an interview with the official newspaper, which was followed by “Al-Eqtisad News”, that the ministry has made significant progress in preparing the technical and engineering requirements for the project, noting that the detailed design phase is nearing completion, which is a fundamental step that precedes the referral, implementation, and negotiation process with international companies wishing to participate in the project.

He added that the project is attracting increasing regional and international attention, given its strategic importance in linking Iraq to global trade routes, as well as its expected role in strengthening the transport and logistics sector and opening new economic horizons for the country.

Al-Safi pointed out that a number of European and regional companies have expressed their desire to cooperate and participate in the implementation of the project during its next phases, indicating that the latest entity to announce its interest in the project was the Bulgarian Ministry of Transport, which expressed its support for its completion in cooperation and coordination with the Iraqi side, in a way that contributes to enhancing trade exchange between the two countries and facilitating the smooth flow of transport through international corridors. https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69015

Iraq Ranked Fourth In Well Drilling Activity Within OPEC During 2025

energy  Economy News – Baghdad   Iraq ranked fourth among OPEC countries in well drilling completion activity during 2025, an indicator that reflects continued field activity in the oil sector, despite the difference with the leading countries.

Kuwait topped the list with 755 wells, followed by the United Arab Emirates with 444 wells, then Saudi Arabia with 383 wells, while Iraq came in fourth with 280 wells among the most active countries in drilling operations within the organization.

OPEC data also showed an improvement in global demand for oil derivatives related to the transportation sector during 2025, as demand for diesel rose by 0.39%, gasoline by 0.34%, and kerosene (jet fuel) by 0.29%, compared to a decline in the remaining fuel by 0.19%, reflecting the recovery of land and air transport and the expansion of global trade and tourism activity.

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69026

Parliamentary Integrity Committee: A Move To Obligate Investment Projects To Employ 70% Of Iraqi Youth

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad      The Parliamentary Integrity Committee intends to issue directives in the near future to investment projects, obligating them to employ 70 percent of Iraqi youth within their projects.

Naheda Al-Daini, a member of the Parliamentary Integrity Committee, told the official newspaper, as reported by "Al-Eqtisad News," that "investment in Iraq is witnessing remarkable development, especially in the capital, Baghdad, but this sector still faces a number of problems, which requires a comprehensive review of the investment file and an examination of the licenses granted during the past years."

Al-Daini added that the file of real estate developers also needs to be reconsidered, especially with regard to the lands granted for investment projects, indicating that the Parliamentary Integrity Committee is serious about following up on this file, by requesting all investment and building licenses and financial guarantees, as well as studying the violations that occurred previously.

She affirmed that the committee will play a strong role in the coming phase to ensure that investment proceeds within legal and normal frameworks, stressing the need to stop any bargaining or violations by investors. Regarding the prices of residential complexes... https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69022

Planning: Including New Projects Within The Poverty Reduction Strategy

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad The Ministry of Planning included a new package of projects within the third poverty reduction strategy after completing its detailed discussion, and confirmed that its approval is pending the formation of the government in the coming period.

Ministry spokesman Abdul Zahra al-Hindawi told the official newspaper, as reported by "Economy News," that the new projects aim to support the poor and improve the service and living conditions in a number of villages and rural areas in various governorates, through the implementation of development programs that contribute to providing job opportunities and strengthening infrastructure and basic services, in line with development goals and the government's plans to address poverty rates.

He explained that the third poverty reduction strategy includes multiple economic and social axes, focusing on economic empowerment, social protection and improving services, as well as expanding the scope of development projects in the most needy governorates, noting that its implementation will be after its official ratification by the new government.

The Ministry of Planning launched its first poverty reduction strategy in 2010, then started the second in 2018, and the third was approved last year and is preparing to launch and implement it. 

In the same context, Al-Hindawi stated that the number of projects of the Social Fund for Development has reached more than 600 since it began its work in 2017, noting that the majority of them have been completed, while the remaining projects have reached advanced rates exceeding 90 percent. 

He pointed out that these projects cover 18 governorates, including the governorates of the Kurdistan Region, explaining that the coordination mechanism between the Ministry of Planning and the governorates is based on the philosophy of (bottom-up planning), meaning that projects are implemented according to what the people of the poorest regions and villages identify in terms of needs and priorities in the fields of education, health, water, electricity and roads.

Al-Hindawi noted the existence of a monitoring and continuous follow-up system for projects, which includes technical, environmental and social reports, as well as direct field follow-up through specialized teams working in coordination with the governorates, in addition to supervision and coordination with the World Bank as the donor to the fund with a loan of $300 million.

He stated that there are currently great efforts to complete all the remaining Fund projects by the end of this year, which represent a limited number, indicating that some villages were completely lacking in electricity, which made delivering it through the Fund projects an important transformation for their residents.

The construction of culverts and bridges also contributed to facilitating the students’ access to their schools, especially in villages separated by rivers, which reduced the risks that threatened children during the winter season.

Al-Hindawi stressed that the fund began its work in three governorates, namely Al-Muthanna, Salah al-Din and Dohuk, before later expanding to include 18 governorates throughout the country. https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69019

Jordanian Electricity Exports To Iraq Increased By 13% In Four Months.

energy   Economy News – Baghdad   Data released by Jordan’s National Electric Power Company on Wednesday showed that electricity exports to the Trebil border crossing with Iraq rose by 13% during the first four months of this year, indicating growing electricity cooperation between the two countries.

According to the company's data, which was reviewed by "Al-Eqtisad News", electricity exports to the Trebil center reached 2.6 gigawatt-hours during the aforementioned period, compared to 2.3 gigawatt-hours during the same period last year.

The data also showed that total sales of the Jordanian National Electric Power Company increased by 3.5%, reaching 7683.2 gigawatt-hours, compared to 7420.6 gigawatt-hours during the same period last year.

Jordanian electricity exports generally recorded an increase of 24.7%, reaching 124.2 gigawatt-hours, compared to 99.6 gigawatt-hours, distributed between Iraq and Palestine. https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69024

Italian Company Eni To Increase Its Oil Production In Iraq During 2025

energy   Economy News – Baghdad   Data from the annual report of the Italian company Eni, released on Wednesday, showed an increase in its oil and gas production in Iraq during 2025, compared to the previous two years, within its global operations.

According to the company’s annual report, which was reviewed by “Al-Eqtisad News”, Eni’s production in Iraq during 2025 amounted to about 11 million barrels of oil liquids and 30 billion cubic feet of natural gas, equivalent to 17 million barrels of oil equivalent, compared to 15 million barrels of oil equivalent in 2024, and 14 million barrels of oil equivalent in 2023.

The report indicated that the company’s total global production reached 631 million barrels of oil equivalent during 2025, compared to 625 million in 2024 and 604 million in 2023, driven by a 7% year-on-year increase in oil liquids production.

Eni has been operating in Iraq since 2009, and manages the Zubair oil field in Basra Governorate under technical service contracts with the Iraqi government.    https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69023

A Chinese Tanker Carrying Two Million Barrels Of Iraqi Oil Is Attempting To Cross The Strait Of Hormuz.

energy   Economy News – Baghdad    Ship tracking data showed on Wednesday that a giant Chinese oil tanker carrying about two million barrels of Iraqi crude was attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz, a move that reflects the continued flow of Iraqi oil exports despite escalating security tensions in the region.

According to data from ship tracking company LSEG and the Kpler platform, the giant oil tanker "Yuan Hua Hu" passed Iran's Larak Island and headed south through the strait, after being stuck in the Gulf since the beginning of March.

The tanker had loaded its cargo of Basra Medium crude from the port of Basra and is currently heading towards Asian markets. It is owned and managed by a unit of the Chinese company COSCO Shipping Energy Transportation, while the shipment was licensed by Unipec, the trading arm of Sinopec.

This attempt marks the third known passage of a Chinese oil tanker through the Strait of Hormuz since military tensions escalated between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other on February 28, according to available tracking data.

Reports also indicated that Iran has strengthened its influence in the Strait in recent days through understandings related to oil and gas shipments with Iraq and Pakistan, amid global concerns about any disruption that could threaten the movement of energy supplies through the vital waterway.

This comes as Bloomberg reported on Tuesday that US forces imposing a naval blockade on Iran prevented a Greek ship carrying about two million barrels of Iraqi oil from continuing its journey to Vietnam for "unknown" reasons, while the Vietnamese government appealed to the United States to allow the oil shipment to proceed.

According to Bloomberg, the giant oil tanker Agios Phanourios 1, operated by Athens-based Eastern Mediterranean Maritime, made a sudden turn at sea on Monday near the point where the US blockade begins.

The tanker had passed through the Strait of Hormuz carrying 1.99 million barrels of Iraqi Basra Medium crude when it turned back, according to ship tracking data and documents seen by Bloomberg.

PetroVietnam Oil, the trading arm of the state-owned energy company, confirmed to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command that the cargo aboard the Agios Phanourios 1 belongs to them and was loaded in Iraq, according to a letter seen by Bloomberg. The tanker still indicates its destination as Nghi Son, home to one of the refineries in the Asian nation.

https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69021

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Wednesday Morning 5-13-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Trump Heads to China as Iran Conflict and Oil Route Crisis Shake Global Markets

Energy security, inflation fears, and rising geopolitical rivalry are placing new pressure on the global financial system

The escalating Iran conflict and growing instability around the Strait of Hormuz are increasingly influencing monetary policy, trade flows, and global economic expectations

Overview (Key Points)

U.S. President Donald Trump departed for China on Wednesday ahead of a highly anticipated summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping as the ongoing Iran conflict continues disrupting global energy markets and increasing geopolitical tensions.

The visit comes during a period of:

• Elevated oil prices

• Rising inflation pressures

• Maritime security concerns

• Growing uncertainty surrounding global trade and monetary stability

Financial analysts increasingly warn that prolonged instability surrounding the Strait of Hormuz could accelerate broader structural shifts already developing within the global financial system.

Key Developments

1. Trump Travels to China Amid Intensifying Global Tensions

President Trump arrived in China for high-level talks with President Xi Jinping while attempting to balance diplomatic engagement with growing military and economic pressures tied to the Iran conflict.

Trump publicly stated that the United States does not require China’s assistance to address Iran, signaling a continued emphasis on unilateral strategic objectives.

However, the timing of the summit highlights how closely interconnected:

• U.S.–China relations

• Energy security

• Global trade

• Middle East stability

have become.

2. Strait of Hormuz Crisis Continues Disrupting Energy Markets

The Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of global market concerns as military tensions continue threatening one of the world’s most important oil transit corridors.

Roughly 20% of global oil supplies normally pass through the waterway, making any prolonged disruption a major risk to the international economy.

According to the International Energy Agency, ongoing instability is already tightening global supply conditions and contributing to elevated oil prices.

Brent crude remained volatile today as traders weighed the risks of further escalation.

3. Inflation Pressures Continue Building Worldwide

Higher energy prices are once again feeding directly into global inflation concerns.

The rise in fuel costs is contributing to:

• Higher transportation expenses

• Increased manufacturing costs

• Food price inflation

• Broader consumer price pressure

Recent U.S. inflation data showed continued increases in living costs, reinforcing fears that central banks may be forced to maintain restrictive monetary policies longer than expected.

The combination of war-driven energy inflation and slowing economic growth is creating renewed fears of stagflation across several major economies.

4. China’s Role in Global Energy and Trade Expands

Although Trump minimized China’s role in resolving the Iran crisis, Beijing remains one of Iran’s largest economic partners and energy buyers.

China’s dependence on Middle Eastern energy imports means that prolonged disruption in the Gulf directly affects:

• Chinese industrial production

• Trade flows

• Supply chains

• Commodity markets

Analysts believe the summit could include behind-the-scenes discussions related to:

• Oil market stability

• Maritime security

• Trade coordination

• Broader economic risks tied to the conflict

5. Geopolitical Instability Continues Reshaping Global Finance

Markets are increasingly reacting not only to economic indicators, but also to geopolitical developments involving:

• Military escalation

• Shipping routes

• Sanctions

• Strategic alliances

The Iran conflict demonstrates how quickly regional wars can transmit economic shocks throughout the global financial system.

Bond markets, currencies, commodities, and central bank expectations are all becoming more sensitive to geopolitical risk.

Why It Matters

Today’s developments reinforce how deeply interconnected global finance has become with geopolitical stability and energy security.

The combination of:

• Rising oil prices

• Inflation pressure

• Strategic rivalry

• Supply chain disruptions

is creating an increasingly fragile environment for the global economy.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Periods of prolonged geopolitical instability often increase:

• Currency volatility

• Inflationary pressure

• Commodity price swings

• Demand for reserve diversification

Energy-importing nations remain especially vulnerable if oil disruptions continue.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Energy Security Is Becoming Central to Financial Stability

Oil flows through strategic maritime chokepoints now directly influence inflation, interest rates, and monetary policy worldwide.

• Pillar 2: Geopolitical Rivalries Are Accelerating Economic Fragmentation

The growing intersection of military conflict, trade competition, and monetary policy continues reshaping the global financial landscape.

Conclusion

Trump’s visit to China comes at a pivotal moment as the Iran conflict increasingly impacts global markets, inflation expectations, and energy security.

The ongoing instability surrounding the Strait of Hormuz highlights how vulnerable the modern financial system remains to geopolitical disruptions tied to strategic energy corridors.

As tensions between major powers continue intersecting with economic and monetary pressures, the world economy is entering a period where geopolitics and finance are becoming inseparable forces shaping the future global order.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Modern Diplomacy — "Trump Heads to China as Iran War and Strait of Hormuz Crisis Escalate"

• Reuters — "Global oil markets and geopolitical developments coverage"

~~~~~~~~~~

 🌱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:

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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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