Here’s An Inflation Hedge: Go Where Your Money Buys More

Here’s An Inflation Hedge: Go Where Your Money Buys More

Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black / Sovereign Man} July 7, 2026

[Editor’s note: This letter was written by Schiff Sovereign’s CEO, Viktorija]

Picture the kind of life that, in the West, only the genuinely rich can afford: a full-time housekeeper who cooks and cleans, a concierge doctor you text with directly whenever you need, dinner out with friends several times each week without even thinking about splitting the bill, and a modern condo with pool, gym, and security.

That would easily run $20,000+ per month in the US. The live-in help alone puts it out of reach for most people.

But in Cebu, a coastal city in the Philippines, all of that costs about $3,000 a month.

An ordinary Western middle-class income (even lower middle class) unlocks a lifestyle that looks posh back home.

But cheap is not what makes the Philippines interesting. Plenty of places are cheap. What sets it apart is that it may be the easiest place in Asia for a Westerner to actually live.

Start with the language. English is not a tourist-zone courtesy in the Philippines; it is an official language, used in government, courts, contracts, banks, hospitals, universities, and street signage. Your doctor speaks English. Your lawyer drafts documents in English.

No other major Asian country comes close, and for a retiree or a family building a second base, that changes everything about daily life.

Then there is the familiarity. Spain ruled the islands for more than three centuries and left behind Catholicism, Spanish surnames, town plazas, and a warm, family-centered social culture that feels closer to Latin America than to the rest of Asia.

Then the Americans took over; the Philippines was US territory from 1898 until independence in 1946, which left behind English-language schools, American-style institutions, basketball, and a general comfort with Westerners you will not find in Japan or China.

You can walk through Cebu and pass a Catholic church, a US-style mall, a fresh seafood market, and a group of schoolkids chatting in English, all in the same afternoon.

A comfortable two-bedroom condo in Cebu runs around $450/month.

A couple can live well on $2,500 to $3,500 a month, while retired couples in smaller cities often do it on just $2,000. A private doctor visit costs $10 to $25, a dental cleaning $15 to $30.

The tax picture is friendlier than most people expect too. Foreigners who become Philippine tax residents are generally taxed only on income earned inside the Philippines. A British retiree on a UK pension or a Canadian drawing retirement income will likely owe the Philippines nothing.

The same is true for Americans; the Philippines will not touch their income earned outside of the Philippines. The catch for Americans, of course, is that Uncle Sam taxes citizens on their worldwide income wherever they live.

(Those with earned income can use the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion to shield the first $132,900 of it, but the US tax and reporting obligations follow you regardless.)

What turns all of this from a pleasant vacation into a real Plan B is the residency, which is genuinely easy to get and even easier to keep.

The Philippines' famous retirement visa has been running since 1985, and despite the name you do not need a pension or to be retired; anyone 40 or older can qualify by placing a refundable deposit in a Philippine bank.

There is no minimum stay requirement at all, so you can hold the residency for life while living somewhere else entirely, visiting when you like, and paying a modest annual fee to keep it current.

To be clear, the Philippines has real trade-offs. Foreigners can own condominium units but can never own land directly. Infrastructure outside the main hubs is uneven, typhoons are a fact of life, and the bureaucracy moves at island speed.

And the Philippine passport is weak enough that citizenship is not worth chasing; this is a residency play, not a passport play.

But that is exactly what a Plan B is. It does not require you to move anywhere; it requires securing the legal right to live somewhere you would actually enjoy, before you need it.

In case the comfortable Western life continues drifting out of reach, with housing, healthcare, and help all rising faster than anyone can comprehend, it makes sense to consider potential options abroad.

On the other side of the world, a great life figures in to a below-average Western income, in English, with no winter.

Our flagship service, Plan B Confidential, just published a full report on the Philippines for members: where expats actually live (and the one region to approach with eyes open), realistic budgets, the healthcare and insurance setup, the tax rules for remote workers, the exact deposit tiers for the retirement visa, and what you can and cannot do with the deposit.

The Philippines is one option among many. Plan B Confidential's research covers residency and citizenship pathways, offshore banking, and legal tax strategies across more than 120 countries, so you can shortlist the handful of places actually worth your time from your couch, before spending any real money on the ground.

To your freedom,  Viktorija   CEO, Schiff Sovereign LLC

https://www.schiffsovereign.com/trends/heres-an-inflation-hedge-go-where-your-money-buys-more-155436/?inf_contact_key=369db19ffd8b19bd88cc19cd532a9ccc56374244ed3079802af78ca168e4c2a0

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Friday Afternoon 7-10-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

NATO Commits to Historic Defense Expansion as Alliance Shifts Into Long-Term Rearmament

The NATO Summit concluded with the alliance committing to significantly higher defense investment, expanded military production, and major new procurement agreements—moves that could reshape government spending, industrial investment, and global economic priorities for years to come.

Overview

• NATO leaders reaffirmed their commitment to increase defense spending toward 5% of GDP by 2035, marking one of the alliance's largest long-term investment plans.

• More than €50 billion in new defense procurement agreements were announced alongside expanded industrial production and innovation initiatives.

• The commitments signal a structural shift toward long-term military investment, with implications extending beyond security into government budgets, manufacturing, supply chains, and global capital flows.

Key Developments

1. NATO Accelerates Defense Spending Commitments

Alliance members reaffirmed plans to move toward spending 5% of GDP on defense and security by 2035, with Secretary General Mark Rutte stating that NATO's focus has shifted from setting targets to delivering measurable results. European allies and Canada are assuming a greater share of collective defense responsibilities.

2. More Than €50 Billion in Defense Contracts Announced

Governments and defense companies unveiled over €50 billion in procurement agreements during the NATO Defence Industry Forum. The investments include missile systems, drones, military equipment, and expanded production capacity intended to strengthen the alliance's long-term readiness.

3. Defense Manufacturing Enters a New Growth Cycle

NATO leaders emphasized accelerating defense industrial production by expanding manufacturing capacity, investing in innovation, and reducing production bottlenecks. New initiatives include large investments in unmanned systems and military logistics infrastructure.

4. Infrastructure Spending Expands Beyond Weapons

The alliance also approved major investments to modernize military fuel storage, pipelines, and distribution systems across Europe. These infrastructure projects are designed to improve long-term operational readiness while strengthening supply resilience.

5. Economic Priorities Continue to Shift

The summit underscored that geopolitical risks are increasingly influencing fiscal policy. Governments are redirecting greater portions of national budgets toward defense, potentially affecting future borrowing, industrial policy, and public spending priorities.

 Why It Matters

Defense spending has become an increasingly important driver of fiscal policy and industrial investment. Large-scale military procurement requires long-term government financing, expands manufacturing demand, and influences supply chains across multiple sectors of the global economy.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Higher government spending and increased sovereign borrowing can influence inflation, interest rates, and currency valuations. Long-term defense investments may also accelerate industrial growth while affecting capital flows and fiscal balances across NATO member nations.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1 – Debt

Growing defense commitments will likely require substantial long-term government borrowing, increasing pressure on public finances while reshaping fiscal priorities across advanced economies.

• Pillar 2 – Trade

Expanded military production and procurement will strengthen manufacturing, industrial supply chains, and cross-border defense cooperation, creating new trade and investment flows among allied nations.

This is not just about defense—it reflects a long-term shift in government spending, industrial production, and strategic investment that could influence the direction of the global economy for years to come.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters – Trump cites 'tremendous unity' at NATO summit, progress on defense spending

• NATO – Secretary General on the Ankara Summit: NATO Delivers

~~~~~~~~~~

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More Iraq News Posted by Tishwash at TNT 7-10-2026

TNT:

Tishwash:  KRG to end cash salary payments as banking transition to conclude by August

  2026-07-08 | 15:15

 The Kurdistan Regional Government will fully shift public-sector salary payments to the banking system after Aug. 31, ending cash payroll distribution for employees and pensioners covered by the MyAccount program.

The MyAccount project said Aug. 31 is the final deadline for beneficiaries to collect their bank cards from the banks where they opened their accounts. After that date, salaries will no longer be paid in cash, and beneficiaries who have not received their cards were urged to visit their designated banks.

The latest official figures show 862,168 public-sector salary recipients have registered with MyAccount and collected their bank cards, or 96% of all beneficiaries.

Registration rates vary by governorate. Erbil has registered 379,204 beneficiaries, or 99% of eligible recipients, and Duhok 188,164, also 99%. Halabja has registered 15,886, or 93%, and Sulaymaniyah 278,913, or 92%.

The announcement marks the final step in the KRG’s rollout of MyAccount, a program launched in 2023 to replace cash salary payments with direct deposits into personal bank accounts.

In May, the KRG said nearly 800,000 public-sector beneficiaries were receiving their salaries through MyAccount. At the time, officials reported more than 900,000 registrations, more than 800,000 bank cards issued and over 600 ATMs installed across the Kurdistan Region. The government said the ATM network would keep expanding as more beneficiaries join.

The program lets beneficiaries access their salaries through bank branches, ATMs and electronic banking services instead of collecting cash through the government’s previous payroll system.

Tishwash:  Pressure mounts to finalize the cabinet; Parliament urges blocs to settle on nominees, vote imminent.

 MP Abbas Al-Maliki stressed that the delay in completing the cabinet does not serve the political process, calling on political blocs to expedite the resolution of this issue and send the names of the remaining ministers to the House of Representatives in preparation for voting on them.

Al-Maliki said that the continued delay in completing the government formation is affecting the government's work and hindering the implementation of its program, noting that the House of Representatives informed the political blocs of the need to agree on the candidates and send their names to be presented to Parliament.

He added that political activity between the various forces is still ongoing with the aim of reaching understandings regarding the vacant ministries, noting that there are intensive contacts and consultations to accomplish this entitlement.

Al-Maliki explained that there is a trend to resolve the issue of completing the ministerial cabinet during the upcoming sessions of the House of Representatives, which will contribute to completing the government formation and ending one of the most prominent outstanding political issues. link

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Tishwash:  Saleh: President Zaidi's visit to Washington and the launch of the "Energy and Development Fund" lay the foundation for a new phase in Iraq.

The Prime Minister’s financial advisor, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, confirmed that the Prime Minister’s anticipated visit to Washington, D.C., along with the launch of the joint Iraqi-American “Energy and Development Fund”, represent the beginning of a new phase in the path of economic and investment development in Iraq.

Saleh said the Prime Minister’s policy is based on linking a portion of oil revenues to the Resources Development Fund, with the aim of providing sustainable financing for major strategic projects, particularly in the energy, electricity and infrastructure sectors.

He explained that there is initial cooperation between Iraq and the United States to activate the “Energy and Development Fund”, noting that Al-Zaidi’s visit to Washington will contribute to resolving the main issues related to the mechanisms of the fund’s work and launching its projects.

He added that the expected funding for the fund could reach about $400 billion over thirty years, according to gradual growth linked to the performance of the projects and implementing companies, which would ensure the sustainability of funding and promote economic development.

Saleh explained that the fund will open accounts in reputable American banks to secure financing for electricity and infrastructure projects, stressing that one of its most prominent advantages is that it is not linked to the federal budget law, which is often delayed in its approval, which gives executive bodies greater flexibility in completing projects.

He pointed out that the fund will adopt an integrated monitoring system, including prior monitoring of contracting procedures and subsequent monitoring of implementation phases, which will enhance transparency and raise the efficiency of investment project management.  link

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Tishwash:  Al-Bayati: We are waiting for a roadmap from the Ministry of Finance to address the economic challenges.

MP Mohammed al-Bayati confirmed on Wednesday that he is awaiting a roadmap from the Ministry of Finance for managing the financial situation in the coming period, given the challenges facing the Iraqi economy.

Al-Bayati told Al-Maalouma that "Iraq is going through a difficult financial phase due to its declining ability to export oil at high levels," noting that "the Ministry of Finance faces significant challenges, and we are waiting for a roadmap that clarifies the features of the next phase, the proposed solutions, and the mechanisms for correcting the financial course."

He added that "the Ministry of Finance faces complex challenges, and this is undeniable," explaining that "the next phase will be one of searching for exceptional solutions to address the significant decrease in budget revenues."

He pointed to "the importance of developing realistic and objective solutions that contribute to achieving financial stability and ensuring the state's ability to face the upcoming economic challenges."  link

Tishwash:  American newspaper: Iraq agreed to block dollars from reaching Iran and factions in order to resume currency shipments.

The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday evening that Iraq has agreed to new controls aimed at preventing the flow of dollars to Iran and its militia allies, in exchange for the Trump administration lifting a four-month suspension on shipments of US currency to Baghdad, according to what it quoted from US and Iraqi officials.

According to the newspaper report , which was followed by Shafaq News Agency, the US Treasury Department had stopped delivering banknotes in late February with the start of the war on Iran, depriving the government of Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi of much-needed cash liquidity from oil sales revenues deposited with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

With Iraqi oil exports almost completely halted due to the war, the US government exerted what the newspaper described as "enormous" pressure on Baghdad to reduce its ties with Tehran, which had used its neighbor as a major source of dollars in violation of US sanctions, according to the report.

The newspaper considered this move part of a broader effort by the US administration to urge Baghdad to move closer to Washington in the aftermath of the conflict.

Officials, as quoted by the newspaper, said that the Federal Reserve canceled at least two cash shipments on the instructions of the Treasury Department, one of which was worth nearly $500 million.

Deliveries of US dollars, aboard cargo planes chartered by the Iraqi government, resumed late last month, according to Iraqi officials.

In return, Baghdad promised to take measures to prevent Iran and its allies from obtaining dollars from Iraqi exchange companies and from paying the salaries of members of pro-Iranian "militias," according to the report.

A U.S. Treasury official said that shipments of U.S. dollars to Iraq have resumed after Baghdad committed to additional safeguards to prevent armed groups from exploiting the country's financial system.

The newspaper also quoted Iraqi government spokesman Haider al-Abudi as saying that financial transfers had resumed, but he declined to comment on the measures that Baghdad had agreed to restrict the dollar.

The terms agreed upon by Iraq were not previously disclosed. The New York Times had previously reported on the resumption of dollar shipments.

The Wall Street Journal noted that al-Zaidi, a little-known political figure who has never held office, is expected to meet with President Trump later this month in Washington.

She added that al-Zaidi was chosen by the elected Iraqi parliament as prime minister last May, after a long standoff between the United States and Iran over the selection of the country's next leader.

The report confirmed that al-Zaidi received Trump's endorsement despite owning a bank that the US Treasury Department had banned from dealing in dollars due to suspected dealings with an Iranian-linked militia leader. Iranian officials also publicly supported al-Zaidi's selection, according to the report.

He added that the White House's support came with a demand from al-Zaidi to exclude Iranian-backed militias from the next Iraqi government and reduce Tehran's influence in Baghdad. Al-Zaidi also ordered these militias to disarm and place their members under state control, according to the newspaper.

But the American demands, according to the report, involve serious political risks for al-Zaydi, and progress in reducing the influence of the "militias" is slow, according to analysts.

According to the report, previous Iraqi prime ministers have had little success in challenging the "militias," which enjoy strong support in parliament.link

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Friday Morning 7-10-26

Israel Warns US Of Alleged Iranian Assassination Plot Targeting Trump

2026-07-10 02:59  Shafaq News- Washington   Israel has shared intelligence with the United States indicating that Iran is preparing a new plot to assassinate US President Donald Trump, The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday.

The report did not specify when or through which channel the intelligence was passed to Washington, nor did it disclose further details about the alleged plot.

According to the newspaper, calls for Trump's assassination resurfaced during funeral ceremonies for Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes on Iran in late February.

Trump has survived several assassination attempts or alleged plots over the past two years. He was wounded in the ear during a shooting at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024, while another suspected attempt was foiled at his golf club in Florida on Sept. 15, 2024.

Most recently, US Secret Service agents arrested a suspect before an armed attack could target the White House Correspondents' Association dinner on April 25, an event attended by Trump and senior members of his administration.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/World/Israel-warns-US-of-alleged-Iranian-assassination-plot-targeting-Trump

Oil Advances As Middle East Tensions Support Prices

2026-07-10 03:37   Shafaq News  Oil prices edged higher on Friday and were set for weekly gains because of renewed fears of supply disruptions from the key Middle East producing region after renewed ​fighting between the U.S. and Iran this week curtailed shipping in the Strait of ‌Hormuz.

Brent futures were up 4 cents, or 0.05%, at $76.34 a barrel by 0319 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained 7 cents, or 0.10%, to $72.15.

For the week, Brent was set for a gain of about 6% and WTI was ​headed for about a 5% increase.

"Prices have backed off the mid-week highs, but there is still a ​substantial risk premium as Hormuz transits are back to a near-standstill with no ⁠clear signs on when normal reopening might resume," said Vandana Hari, founder of oil market analysis ​provider Vanda Insights.

"However, it looks like market confidence in the U.S. and Iran returning to diplomacy to ​resolve the issue is capping the upside," Hari added.

Iranian armed forces launched attacks on U.S. military infrastructure in Gulf states on Thursday following U.S. strikes on Iran's southern coastal and eastern provinces, further straining a three-week-old ceasefire. Separately, Iranian ​media reported multiple explosions across southern Iran, including Bushehr, where one of the country's nuclear plants is ​located.

The renewed fighting came the day that Iran buried its slain supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the culmination of a ‌week of ⁠mass funeral processions and rallies. Khamenei was killed on the first day of the war on February 28.

The renewed fighting has delayed the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which carried about 20% of daily global oil and gas supplies before the war.

Tanker traffic through the strait on Thursday was at ​a near standstill, according ​to ship-tracking data, as ⁠vessel owners assessed the risk from the latest strikes, which started after Iran hit a Qatari LNG ship exiting the waterway near Oman.

Still, U.S. President ​Donald Trump said on Wednesday he did not think the war would ​restart because of ⁠the new fighting and that "anything that happens is going to be over very quickly."

"Despite the U.S. ramping up attacks on military sites in Iran, the market drew some reassurance from the Trump administration’s decision to avoid ⁠targeting Iranian ​energy infrastructure," said Daniel Hynes, senior commodity strategist for ANZ ​bank.

"This was aided by comments from President Trump, who said he doesn’t expect a return to a full-scale conflict."

(REUTERS) https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-advances-as-Middle-East-tensions-support-prices

Gold Slips On Inflation Fears Tied To US-Iran Conflict

2026-07-10 01:16   Shafaq News  Gold edged ​lower on Friday and was on track for a weekly fall on ‌concerns that escalating U.S.-Iran tensions could fuel inflation and keep the Federal Reserve on a hawkish monetary policy path.

Spot gold fell 0.2% to $4,113.29 per ounce by 0426 GMT and was headed for ​a 1.5% weekly decline. U.S. gold futures for August delivery fell 0.4% ​to $4,122.70.

"Gold is in consolidation mode today following yesterday's gains, with traders hesitant ⁠to commit to further upside amid the prevailing uncertainty over US-Iran relations," said ​Tim Waterer, chief market analyst at KCM Trade.

Oil prices were on track for a weekly ​gain as the U.S. and Iran continued to trade strikes, with Iranian armed forces launching attacks on U.S. military infrastructure in Gulf states on Thursday following U.S. strikes on Iran's southern coastal and ​eastern provinces.

The latest round of strikes has fuelled inflation concerns and reinforced the probability ​of the Fed raising rates this year.

Markets are pricing in a 63% chance of a September ‌rate ⁠hike, up from around 54% a week earlier, according to CME's FedWatch tool.

While gold is typically seen as a hedge against inflation, it loses its appeal as a non-yielding asset in a high-interest-rate environment.

"I expect gold will continue to attract buyers on dips ​as long as ​oil stays around current ⁠levels. However, any sharp spike in oil could reignite inflation and interest rate fears, which would be to gold's detriment," Waterer ​said.

Minutes of the Fed's June meeting, released earlier this week, ​showed growing ⁠concerns among policymakers about elevated inflation.

HSBC cut its average gold price forecasts for 2026 and 2027 on Thursday, citing a hawkish shift in U.S. monetary policy expectations and a stronger ⁠dollar.

Elsewhere, ​spot silver rose 0.6% to $60.34 per ounce, platinum gained ​1.4% to $1,632.16 and palladium climbed 1.6% to $1,267.71. All three metals were on track for a weekly loss.

(REUTERS) https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-slips-on-inflation-fears-tied-to-US-Iran-conflict

Ports: Port Of Umm Qasr Initiates Transit Procedures For UAE Aid To Lebanon With Transit System

Money and business    Economy News — Baghdad   The Border Ports Authority announced on Friday the completion of the necessary procedures for the transit of trucks loaded with food coming from the United Arab Emirates to Lebanon through Iraqi territory with the transit system.

A spokesman for the Border Ports Authority, Aladdin Al-Qaisi, said that "in implementation of the directives of Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi and under the supervision of the head of the Border Ports Authority, Lieutenant General Omar Al-Waeli, the Directorate of the northern port of Umm Qasr has begun to complete all the necessary procedures for the passage of trucks loaded with food as humanitarian aid from the United Arab Emirates to the Republic of Lebanon."

He added that "the passage of these trucks is in accordance with the transit system through Iraqi territory to the Lebanese territory." https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=71176

Gold Is Heading For A Weekly Decline Amid Expectations Of A US Interest Rate Hike

Money and business    Economy News - Follow-up   Gold prices were little changed at the start of trading on Friday, as markets assessed the inflation risk caused by the latest military escalation between the United States and Iran and renewed expectations of a rise in interest rates prompted the metal that does not generate a return towards a weekly decline.

By 00:47 GMT, the spot price of gold had stabilized at $4122.09 an ounce, heading for a weekly loss of more than 1%. U.S. gold futures for August delivery fell 0.2 percent to $4,131.50.

Iran’s armed forces launched attacks on U.S. military infrastructure in Gulf countries on Thursday following U.S. strikes on coastal areas in southern and eastern Iran, putting more pressure on the ceasefire that was reached three weeks ago.

The latest round of strikes has fueled concerns about inflation and reinforced the prospect of the Federal Reserve raising U.S. interest rates this year.

According to C.C.'s Fed Watch tool. M. The markets see a 64% chance of a rate hike in September, compared to 54% a week ago.

The minutes of the Federal Reserve’s June meeting showed growing concerns among monetary policymakers about rising inflation, with a few saying interest rate hikes were warranted.

John Williams, chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, ruled out a sustained rise in energy prices for the rest of the year despite renewed hostilities in the Middle East.

The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits fell last week, suggesting the labor market remained stable despite slowing job growth in June.

For other precious metals, spot silver fell 0.1% to $59.94 an ounce, platinum rose 0.2% to $1,614.22, and palladium rose 0.4% to $1,252.75. The three metals are heading for a weekly loss     https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=71179

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Friday Morning 7-10-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps

Fed Communication Review Signals Next Phase of Global Monetary Policy

The Federal Reserve's review of how it communicates future monetary policy, combined with support from the International Monetary Fund, highlights a growing shift in how central banks intend to guide markets during a period of elevated global uncertainty.

Overview

• The International Monetary Fund announced it will work with the Federal Reserve as the Fed reviews its monetary policy communications and forward guidance.

• The review reflects a changing economic environment, where higher inflation and interest rates require central banks to reconsider how they communicate future policy decisions.

• Financial markets are closely watching the outcome, as changes in Fed communication could influence interest rates, bond markets, currencies, and global capital flows.

Key Developments

1. IMF Backs Federal Reserve Policy Review

The International Monetary Fund said it looks forward to engaging with the Federal Reserve as officials evaluate how they communicate monetary policy. IMF officials noted that while forward guidance proved highly effective during years of near-zero interest rates, today's economic environment calls for a reassessment of that strategy.

2. Federal Reserve Reassesses Forward Guidance

The Federal Reserve plans to establish a task force to review how it signals future policy decisions. The objective is to improve transparency while ensuring communications remain effective during periods of persistent inflation and elevated interest rates.

3. Higher Inflation Has Changed the Policy Landscape

Unlike the years following the 2008 financial crisis, today's economy faces ongoing inflation pressures fueled by higher energy prices, geopolitical risks, and supply chain disruptions. These conditions make future policy decisions less predictable and require greater flexibility from central banks.

4. Markets Depend on Central Bank Communication

Investors rely heavily on Federal Reserve guidance when pricing stocks, bonds, currencies, and commodities. Even subtle changes in how policymakers communicate can influence borrowing costs, investment decisions, and financial market volatility worldwide.

5. Global Central Banks Continue Modernizing Policy Frameworks

The IMF indicated that many central banks are reviewing how they communicate with financial markets as economic conditions evolve. The effort reflects a broader modernization of global monetary policy during a period of increasing geopolitical and financial uncertainty.

Why It Matters

Clear communication from central banks is essential for financial stability. As inflation, geopolitical tensions, and economic uncertainty continue to reshape global markets, the way central banks communicate policy may become just as important as the policy decisions themselves.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Foreign currency holders should closely monitor changes in Federal Reserve policy communications. Expectations regarding interest rates directly affect exchange rates, capital flows, sovereign debt markets, and investor confidence around the world.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1 – Debt

Changes in Federal Reserve communication can significantly influence global borrowing costs, government debt financing, and capital markets, affecting both developed and emerging economies.

• Pillar 4 – Technology

Modern central banking increasingly relies on advanced data analysis, digital communications, and more transparent policy frameworks to improve market stability and investor confidence.

This is not just about how the Federal Reserve communicates—it reflects the continuing evolution of global monetary policy as central banks adapt to a more complex and interconnected financial system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters – IMF looks forward to engaging with Fed on its review of communications and forward guidance

• International Monetary Fund –July 2026 World Economic Outlook Update: Global Economy in Crosscurrents of War and Technology

~~~~~~~~~~

🌱 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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Follow the Gold/Silver Rate COMEX

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Thank you Dinar Recaps

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Thursday Evening 7-9-26

IMF Sees Iraq Contraction Before 2027 Rebound

2026-07-09 11:04   Shafaq News- Baghdad   Middle East and Central Asia growth is projected to fall to 0.7% in 2026 before rebounding to 6.5% in 2027, with Iraq among the commodity producers expected to contract sharply this year, the International Monetary Fund said.

In its July World Economic Outlook update, the IMF grouped Iraq with Kuwait and Qatar as the producers most affected by disruptions to energy output and transport, linking the downturn to a longer closure of the Strait of Hormuz than it assumed in April.

The Fund cut this year’s regional forecast by 1.2 percentage points and raised next year’s by 1.9 points, reflecting a deeper short-term hit and a larger expected rebound.

Saudi Arabia is expected to be less affected because of more diversified export routes, with growth projected at 1.7% in 2026 and 5.5% in 2027.

Globally, the IMF projected growth at 3.0% in 2026 and 3.4% in 2027, saying the outlook remains uneven and exposed to developments in the Middle East. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/IMF-sees-Iraq-contraction-before-2027-rebound

Iraq detains Rafidain Bank officials over $1.22M fraud

2026-07-09 17:08   Shafaq News- Al-Diwaniyah  A joint force from Iraq's Federal Commission of Integrity and a SWAT unit arrested several Rafidain Bank officials in the southern province of Al-Diwaniyah on Thursday over a suspected currency manipulation operation that authorities believe resulted in the embezzlement of about 1.6 billion Iraqi dinars ($1.22M), a source told Shafaq News.

The investigation uncovered the fraudulent replacement of banknotes originally denominated at 50,000 Iraqi dinars ($38.15) with 1,000-dinar notes, enabling the theft.

Authorities are continuing efforts to identify all those involved and recover the stolen funds.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-detains-Rafidain-Bank-officials-over-1-22M-fraud

Iraq Signs Hamrin Oil Field Development Deal With US Firm

2026-07-09 08:16   Shafaq News- Baghdad  Iraq’s state-owned North Oil Company (NOC) signed a contract on Thursday with US-based HKN Energy to develop the Hamrin oil field spanning Kirkuk and Saladin provinces, with peak crude production projected at 140,000 barrels.

Oil Minister Basim Mohammed Khudair Al-Abadi said the agreement supports the government’s strategy to maximize investment in the country’s oil and gas resources, meet domestic energy demand, and increase exports, noting that the project is also expected to produce 40 million cubic feet of associated gas per day (MMcf/d), which will supply the field’s operational needs, while surplus volumes will be reinjected to maintain reservoir pressure instead of being flared.

Al-Abadi also stressed the government’s efforts to attract major international energy companies, particularly from the United States and Europe, under internationally recognized standards. The project, he added, would generate jobs for Iraqi workers and create opportunities for local companies.

“The Ministry will provide support to the company, and signing the contract is a message to all international companies that the domestic investment environment is an attractive environment for investment.”

Hamrin is one of northern Iraq’s largest undeveloped oil fields. The Oil Ministry signed a memorandum of understanding with HKN Energy in mid-2025 to develop the field, initially targeting production of about 60,000 barrels per day while capturing associated gas for power generation.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-signs-Hamrin-oil-field-development-deal-with-US-firm

Basrah Crudes Rise Following US Strikes On Iran

2026-07-09 02:30 Shafaq News- Basrah   Iraq's Basrah crude rose more than 8% on Thursday, tracking gains in global oil prices after US strikes on Iran, according to oil price data reviewed by Shafaq News.

Basrah Heavy crude rose 8.49% to $49.22 per barrel, while Basrah Medium crude gained 8.11% to $51.32 per barrel.

Brent crude futures rose 86 cents, or 1.1%, to $78.88 a barrel by 0352 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures gained 85 cents, or 1.2%, to $74.37 a barrel.

OPEC's basket also rose to $72.36 per barrel, while UAE's Murban crude gained 6.67% to $73.57 per barrel.

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Basrah-crudes-rise-following-US-strikes-on-Iran

Iran: US Attack Targeted Strategic Bridge Within Trade Route With China

Arab and International   Economy News - Follow-up   Iran’s Fars news agency reported on Thursday that nighttime U.S. attacks targeted a railway bridge in northern Iran, damaging an important trade link with China and Russia.

The agency said that this route, which passes through Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, is an important land route to China, and its importance increased during the US blockade imposed this year on Iran's ports in the Gulf, while the agency "Maher" that the volume of Chinese shipments through this route has been increased three times.

According to Iranian agencies, Russia has also been using this route to transport goods to Iran since ⁠Late 2025.

The agency pointed out that "it is expected that the repairs of the bridge will be completed quickly.

Earlier today, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards confirmed that the United States launched a cruise missile attack this morning on the railway bridge "Ak Tiki Khan", a strategic part of the China-Turkmenistan-Iran railway corridor, located in the Akkala region of the northern border province of Golstan. The Revolutionary Guards vowed an "overwhelming" response to the attack.

Local authorities said the attack did not result in any injuries https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=71175

Revolutionary Guards Navy: Any US Intervention In Determining The Course Of Navigation In Hormuz Will Be Met With A "Decisive Response"

Arab and InternationalEconomy News - Follow-up   Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Navy on Thursday threatened a “decisive response” if the United States intervened to determine the routes in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Navy said in a statement: The adventures of the US military will present the interests of the countries benefiting from the Strait of Hormuz to serious danger, and will seriously impede the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

“Foreigners have no interest in the Strait of Hormuz

Iranian media reported on Thursday that explosions were heard in the coastal areas in the south of the country, while the Jordanian armed forces announced the response to Iranian missiles, while the Israeli authorities decided to close the airports after detecting air threats.

Iran's Mehr news agency said the explosions were in the territorial waters off the city of Bandar Abbas, and air defenses had been activated in the city.

Iranian state television reported the fall of a U.S. missile that targeted the vicinity of the Bushehr nuclear plant.

In addition, the Jordanian armed forces announced the shooting down of 8 missiles fired from Iran towards the Kingdom, stressing the readiness of its forces to deal with any threat to the country.

In turn, the Israeli authorities decided to close the airports after air threats were detected, and rockets penetrated Jordanian airspace adjacent to Israel https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=71173

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Evening 7-9-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

BIS Says Tokenization Is the Future of Global Finance as Stablecoin Risks Grow

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) is calling for a new generation of global financial infrastructure built around tokenization while warning that today's stablecoins, in their current form, are not suitable as the foundation of the future monetary system.

Overview

• The BIS says tokenization could transform payments, securities settlement, and cross-border finance while preserving trust in money.

• The report warns that current stablecoin models contain structural weaknesses that could threaten financial stability if widely adopted.

• Central banks and commercial banks are being encouraged to modernize the existing financial system rather than replace it, accelerating the shift toward programmable digital finance.

Key Developments

1. BIS Endorses Tokenized Financial Infrastructure

The BIS concluded that tokenization represents one of the most significant technological advances in modern finance. Rather than creating an entirely new monetary system, the organization recommends integrating tokenized assets and programmable payments into today's regulated banking framework.

2. Stablecoins Face Increased Global Scrutiny

While acknowledging that stablecoins have demonstrated faster and more programmable payments, the BIS warned that many existing stablecoins lack important characteristics required of trusted money, including interoperability, resilience, and consistent redemption at face value.

3. Unified Ledger Concept Continues to Advance

The BIS highlighted continued development of a "Unified Ledger" architecture capable of bringing together tokenized commercial bank deposits, central bank money, and tokenized real-world assets on interoperable digital platforms. Officials believe this approach could significantly improve settlement efficiency while maintaining financial stability.

4. Cross-Border Payments Remain a Priority

Projects such as Project Agorá continue advancing international testing among major central banks and commercial banks. The initiative aims to reduce settlement delays, lower transaction costs, and improve cross-border payments using tokenized financial infrastructure.

5. Policymakers Call for Global Coordination

The BIS emphasized that international cooperation will be essential to establish common standards governing tokenization, digital money, and financial interoperability. Without coordinated regulation, fragmented digital financial systems could introduce new systemic risks.

Why It Matters

The BIS serves as the coordinating institution for many of the world's central banks, making its recommendations highly influential. Its latest report signals that tokenization is moving beyond experimentation and into the next phase of financial infrastructure development, where regulation, interoperability, and institutional participation become the primary focus.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

Foreign currency holders should monitor the continued development of tokenized financial infrastructure because it may reshape how international payments, settlements, and cross-border liquidity operate in the years ahead. While today's report does not directly affect currency valuations, it reflects the ongoing modernization of the global financial system.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 2 – Trade

The expansion of tokenized cross-border payment systems could reduce settlement times, lower transaction costs, and improve the efficiency of international commerce.

• Pillar 4 – Technology

The BIS continues to support tokenization and programmable financial infrastructure as foundational technologies for the next generation of regulated global financial markets.

This is not just about digital assets—it reflects how central banks and global financial institutions are redesigning the infrastructure that could support faster payments, tokenized assets, and more efficient international finance for decades to come.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Bank for International Settlements – The Path to the Next-Generation Monetary and Financial System Lies in Safeguarding Trust in Money

• Reuters – Top Central Banks Forge Ahead With Cross-Border Tokenization Project Agorá

~~~~~~~~~~

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COMEX Gold & Silver Drain: Price Is Misdirection | Andy Schectman

COMEX Gold & Silver Drain: Price Is Misdirection | Andy Schectman

Soar Financially and Miles Franklin Media:  7-9-2026

Andy Schectman joins Soar Financially to discuss why central banks are aggressively buying gold, why trust in the U.S. financial system is eroding, and why silver may be entering a major new phase.

China, BRICS, Treasury markets, COMEX deliveries, and the future of gold-backed trade all take center stage in this conversation.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Intro

00:40 What Really Caused the Gold Selloff?

03:10 Why COMEX Is Sending a Different Signal

06:02 Price Is the Ultimate Tool of Misdirection

08:43 Is the Dollar Really Strong?

10:05 Who Is Setting the Gold Price?

12:15 Has the Physical Market Recovered?

15:06 Are Investors Finally Buying Again?

16:15 The Biggest Money Is Moving Elsewhere

20:24 Why the Fed Narrative Is Wrong

25:03 What Could Send Gold Much Higher?

27:23 Final Thoughts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIRuV-cVhcI

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Afternoon 7-9-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

IMF Cuts Global Growth Forecast as War and Inflation Reshape the Global Economy 

The International Monetary Fund has lowered its global growth outlook, warning that geopolitical conflict, elevated energy prices, and growing economic fragmentation are creating new challenges for the world economy and increasing uncertainty for financial markets.

Overview 

• The IMF lowered its 2026 global economic growth forecast from 3.1% to 3.0%, citing geopolitical tensions, higher energy prices, and trade fragmentation.

• Inflation is expected to remain elevated through 2026, driven largely by higher oil prices following Middle East instability.

• The report warns that renewed conflict or further disruptions to global trade could slow growth even more, highlighting the fragile state of the global economy.

Key Developments 

1. IMF Lowers Global Growth Outlook

The International Monetary Fund reduced its forecast for 2026 global economic growth to 3.0%, reflecting the impact of geopolitical uncertainty, weaker international trade, and slower investment. Although the IMF expects growth to improve in 2027, it projects expansion will remain below recent historical averages.

2. Higher Energy Prices Continue to Drive Inflation

The IMF expects global inflation to average about 4.7% in 2026, with much of the increase attributed to higher energy costs following conflict in the Middle East. Elevated fuel prices continue to place upward pressure on transportation, manufacturing, and food costs worldwide.

3. Strait of Hormuz Remains a Critical Risk

The IMF's forecast assumes that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz gradually returns to normal and that oil markets stabilize. However, officials cautioned that any renewed disruption could significantly weaken growth and trigger additional inflationary pressures.

4. Trade Fragmentation Continues to Slow Growth

The IMF warned that increasing trade fragmentation and geopolitical divisions continue to weigh on business investment, global supply chains, and international commerce. Economies dependent on imported energy and commodities remain particularly vulnerable.

5. Central Banks Face a More Difficult Path

With inflation remaining above many central bank targets, policymakers may be forced to maintain restrictive monetary policies longer than expected. The IMF emphasized that clear communication and prudent policy decisions will be essential as economic uncertainty persists.

Why It Matters

The IMF's outlook is one of the most closely watched assessments of the global economy. Slower growth combined with persistent inflation creates a challenging environment for governments, businesses, and central banks as they attempt to balance economic stability with long-term financial sustainability.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders 

Foreign currency investors should closely monitor global growth forecasts, inflation, and central bank policy. These factors influence exchange rates, capital flows, sovereign debt, and the timing of broader monetary reforms that could affect international financial markets.

Implications for the Global Reset 

• Pillar 1 – Debt

Persistently higher inflation and slower growth make it more difficult for governments to manage rising debt levels, increasing pressure for fiscal reforms and more sustainable public finances.

• Pillar 2 – Trade

The IMF warns that trade fragmentation and geopolitical tensions continue to weaken global commerce, reinforcing efforts by many nations to diversify supply chains and reduce dependence on traditional trade routes.

• Pillar 5 – Energy

The outlook highlights how energy security remains a major driver of inflation and economic stability, with the Strait of Hormuz continuing to play a critical role in global oil markets.

This is not just about a lower economic forecast—it highlights how debt, trade, and energy security are becoming increasingly interconnected as the global financial system adapts to a more uncertain and fragmented world.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters – IMF lowers 2026 global growth forecast to 3%, sees rebound in 2027

• International Monetary Fund – World Economic Outlook Update: Global Economy in the Cross Currents of War and Technology

~~~~~~~~~~

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The Next Phase Of Shrinkflation: Rolling Blackouts

The Next Phase Of Shrinkflation: Rolling Blackouts

Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black / Sovereign Man  July 9, 2026

The lights went on at approximately 3pm on September 4, 1882 in New York City. 

Thomas Edison (with major funding from JP Morgan) had spent roughly two years building the first-ever commercial power plant, located in Manhattan’s financial district. Its total capacity was about 600 kilowatts… barely enough to power a single rack of GPUs today. 

But at the time it was nothing short of miraculous. 

Edison’s coal-fired DC power plant initially served just 82 customers, and electricity was nothing more than a luxury flex by the ultra-wealthy. 

But over time-- especially after Westinghouse and Tesla’s alternating current became the gold standard-- electrification rates in the United States skyrocketed. 

At the turn of the 20th century, hardly anyone had electricity in their homes. By 1920, it was about 35%. By the time the Great Depression hit in 1929, roughly 70% of US homes were electrified, and urban areas were nearly 85%. 

The systems were surprisingly reliable given the rudimentary technology of the day. Blackouts were not infrequent, but they were generally short and localized, often just affecting a few streets or houses. 

And typically the biggest reason for a short, localized blackout was simply because electrical demand was increasing more rapidly than the grid could create new supply. More and more homes were being electrified, and, after World War II, consumer appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners began consuming more power. We’ll come back to that. 

In response, the industry began looking for efficiencies to be able to scale more quickly. They built larger, beefier power plants and connected their independent grids to be able to share reserves and load balance. 

In short, they planned for speed and scale. Not resilience. And the end result was an incredibly complex network that was highly vulnerable to systemic failure. 

That failure first came at 5:16pm on November 9, 1965: a minor maintenance issue near Niagara Falls triggered a chain reaction across the entire grid. 30 million people went without power-- most until the next morning, some for a few days. 

It was a wake-up call… and the first catastrophic grid failure of many more to come. So, naturally, the government stepped in to “fix” it.  

With the electrical grid’s vulnerabilities laid bare, Congress held inquiries and hearings. New rules and regulations were passed. And, before long, the US electrical industry became a confusing alphabet soup of state, local, and federal authorities-- ISOs and RTOs, FERC, PJM, MISO, CAISO, SPP, and so many more. 
Layers and layers of bureaucratic agencies didn’t fix anything. But technology was quite fortunately on America’s side, and over the past few decades, advances (like LED bulbs) made consumer appliances more energy efficient. Power plants also became more productive. 

In fact, today the US consumes less electricity per capita than it did in 1995. And the grid produces much more power. 

But this balance is starting to change rapidly. 

We all know the story of data centers and their insatiable appetites for energy. Electricity is such a critical input, in fact, that data centers are typically described by their power consumption. 

For example, Softbank recently announced 5GW of new data centers in France.  The famous StarGate project in the US is targeting 10GW. Facebook is building a 5GW data center in Louisiana. 

And various plans over the next few years go in to several hundred gigawatts. 

This trend is similar to the 1950s-- utility companies struggled to keep up with surging demand from US consumers who were plugging in air conditioners and refrigerators for the first time. 

But supply and demand in the electricity market is a funny thing. Demand can surge very quickly… just like we’ve seen over the past year or so. But electrical supply grows more slowly. 

New power plants take years to build. Thanks to the aforementioned alphabet soup, the regulatory burden alone is a minefield. 

And most electrical producers aren’t willing to go through the effort, risk, and capital expenditure unless they’re sure the new power plant will be profitable. And profitability depends on the price of electricity. 

That’s where politicians and the regulators have stepped in to screw it all up. 

Naturally, with demand soaring and supply constrained, electricity prices are rising. You’d think that politicians would respond by making it easier for utilities to build new power plants, i.e. reduce the regulatory and permitting process to increase electricity supply. 

But no. Instead, they’re capping prices. 

Last year, a whole lot of state officials and federal regulators got together to set a ceiling for certain wholesale electricity prices to roughly $333 per megawatt-day. 

Clearly they’re responding to voters’ demands to rein in inflation and reduce the cost of living. 

Unfortunately $333/MW-day isn’t high enough to justify investment in new power plants. 

Existing power plants are old. Sometimes extremely old. They already own their land, and their construction loans are all paid off. So, $333/MW-day is sufficient for them to pay for fuel, conduct maintenance and turn a small profit. 

But $333 isn’t enough to build a new plant-- to cover the additional costs of construction, land purchases, permitting, etc. 

In fact, the regulators themselves estimate that electricity prices need to be about $500/MW-day (i.e. 50% higher) to justify investment in new power plants. 

This means there won’t be enough new commercial power plants built to sufficiently supply the grid. In fact, the northeast grid (known as PJM) is already in a 6.5 GW deficit against its own reserve requirement for the first time ever, increasing the chance of failure next summer. 

This is essentially a form of shrinkflation. i.e. paying the same amount of money but getting less for it. We’ve all seen it at grocery stores and restaurants-- same price, smaller portions. 

In this case, electricity prices are supposedly remaining flat. But you’re getting less for it-- potential grid failure. All because the maze of political and regulatory authorities won’t do the obvious thing and make it easy for new power plants to be built.

To your freedom,  James Hickman    Co-Founder, Schiff Sovereign LLC

https://www.schiffsovereign.com/trends/the-next-phase-of-shrinkflation-rolling-blackouts-155441/?inf_contact_key=a13591c7ee5ccd87253dae2dac591f1fae788fd53dbd8435c82ea4a7febc39e6

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Thursday Morning 7-9-26

IMF Expects Severe Contraction In Iraq’s Economy In 2026

Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projected on Thursday that Iraq’s economy will be the most hit by oil and transportation disruptions in the Middle East and Central Asia in 2026.

The IMF also predicted a robust economic rebound in 2027, when energy market conditions improve and commerce resume, local news outlet Shafaq News reported.

In its recent World Economic Outlook report, the IMF projected that Middle Eastern and Central Asian countries will see a sharp drop in growth to 0.7 percent in 2026, before rebounding to 6.5 percent in 2027. These forecasts assume that energy interruptions will last longer than previously predicted.

The economies of Iraq, Kuwait, and Qatar, which are heavily reliant on commodities, will experience significant impacts from disruptions in energy production and transportation. These nations are expected to face an economic downturn in 2026, followed by growth rates exceeding ten percent in 2027.

The anticipated fall in 2026 will mainly result from the disruption in oil production and distribution, especially by those nations that depend heavily on energy exports, but the recovery in 2027 will be brought about by a reduction of these shocks and resumption of business activities.

The IMF’s latest prediction reduces the region’s growth forecast for 2026 by 1.2 percent from the April report, while the 2027 forecast is lifted by about 1.9 percent, suggesting expectations of a stronger rebound.

The IMF, on the other hand, expects Saudi Arabia to remain largely unaffected due to its more diverse export channels, with an economic growth of 1.7 percent in 2026 and 5.5 percent in 2027.

https://www.iraqinews.com/iraq/imf-expects-severe-contraction-in-iraqs-economy-in-2026/

Iraq Tightens Iran Dollar Controls As US Restarts Shipments

Iraq   Iraqi News   July 9, 2026  Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) — The United States has restarted supplies of U.S. dollar banknotes to Iraq after Baghdad agreed to take further steps to stop American cash from reaching Iran and Iran-backed armed organizations, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing Iraqi and United States officials.

The outbreak of the Iran war in late February froze shipments of physical dollars from Iraq’s oil revenues held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, enforced by the U.S. Treasury Department, and shipments were suspended for some four months, putting pressure on Baghdad’s cash-based economy.

Under the deal, Iraq promised to tighten its financial system, including stricter regulation of currency exchange firms and efforts to prevent U.S. cash from reaching Iran or Iran-backed militias via salaries and other financial channels.

Iraq agreed to put in place extra protections to prevent armed organizations from abusing its banking system, a U.S. Treasury official told the newspaper, and shipments resumed. Iraqi authorities said dollar payments had resumed but did not disclose the new terms publicly.

During the delay, the Treasury Department canceled at least two cash shipments, including one for around $500 million, before delivery resumed late last month, The Wall Street Journal said.

The deal comes as Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi aims to boost economic ties with Washington while pushing domestic banking reforms.

Al-Zaidi is set to go to the United States later this month to have meetings with President Donald Trump, the newspaper added.

The report also mentioned that the Trump administration has pushed Baghdad to limit the role of Iran-backed militias, including steps to tighten monitoring of cash flows and increase official control over armed organizations.

Analysts told The Wall Street Journal that there are big political obstacles to enacting such regulations, given the entrenched role of militia groups in Iraq’s political and security scene.

Since 2003, Iraq has depended on supplies of U.S. dollar banknotes since most of its economy is still cash-based.

Access to actual dollars is a key source of liquidity for Iraq’s banking sector since oil profits are kept at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York before being released to Iraq.

The new deal is part of a wider push by Washington to tighten financial controls in Iraq while reducing the ability to evade sanctions and move dollars illegally across borders, as Baghdad grapples with balancing its strong economic links with the United States and neighboring Iran.

https://www.iraqinews.com/iraq/iraq-tightens-iran-dollar-controls-as-us-restarts-shipments/

After the Decline... A New Rise In Dollar Prices In Iraq Today

Published Sumerian News, the exchange rates of the dollar against the dinar in the Iraqi local markets on Thursday, July 9, 2026. The sale price is 154500 dinars for 100 dollars.

The purchase price is 153650 dinars for 100 dollars.  It was Cabinet On February 7, 2022, it was announced that the dollar exchange rate would be adjusted to 1320 dinars to the dollar. LINK

Between High And Low.. The Latest Update Of Gold Prices In Iraq

Alsumaria News – Economy  Published Sumerian News Foreign and Iraqi gold prices in the local markets in the capital Baghdad Today is Thursday, July 9, 2026.

The sale price of Iraqi gold karat 21 amounted to 857 thousand dinars, compared to 853 thousand dinars for purchase.

In the jewelers' shops, the selling price of the gold weight of the Gulf karat 21 ranged between 890 thousand and 900 thousand dinars.

Global gold prices continue to rise in record highs, with investors increasingly confident that the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates in September, as well as rising economic and geopolitical uncertainty, along with expectations of a reduction in US interest rates. LINK

Globally. Oil Prices Continue To Rise In Early Trading

Sumerian News - Economy Oil prices rose on Thursday after United States New strikes against IranTo diminish hopes of ending the war and reopening Strait of Hormuz Completely.

‎By 00:54 GMT, crude futures had risen.Brent" at 1% to $78.8 per barrel. The futures contracts for West crude increased. Texas The US broker is 1.01% to $74.26.

‎Before that, the two benchmarks at the settlement reached their highest levels in more than two weeks after the US president threatened Donald Trump Bombing Iran Last night.
‎He said U S Army He carried out new strikes on Iran in order to keep Strait of Hormuz vitality is open to navigation, hours after saying Trump The interim agreement to end the war is “over.” LINK