Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Wednesday Afternoon 7-30-25
Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,
Crypto Policy Crossroads: Senate Pushes Digital Asset Frameworks for Markets and Mortgages
Digital regulation gains momentum as lawmakers weigh oversight frameworks and new use cases
Senate Committee Unveils Digital Asset Regulation Framework
In a pivotal move for U.S. digital asset oversight, the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee has released a Discussion Draft aimed at formally regulating the crypto ecosystem. The proposal introduces foundational definitions, seeks jurisdictional clarity between federal agencies, and proposes comprehensive guardrails for stablecoins and digital asset intermediaries
Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,
Crypto Policy Crossroads: Senate Pushes Digital Asset Frameworks for Markets and Mortgages
Digital regulation gains momentum as lawmakers weigh oversight frameworks and new use cases
Senate Committee Unveils Digital Asset Regulation Framework
In a pivotal move for U.S. digital asset oversight, the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee has released a Discussion Draft aimed at formally regulating the crypto ecosystem. The proposal introduces foundational definitions, seeks jurisdictional clarity between federal agencies, and proposes comprehensive guardrails for stablecoins and digital asset intermediaries.
This marks a shift from fragmented enforcement to a structured legislative path, with implications for how exchanges, custodians, and token issuers will operate in the years ahead.
Key Elements of the Draft Legislation
Defined Classifications of Digital Assets:
The bill distinguishes between payment stablecoins, digital commodities, and securities, creating tailored compliance expectations for each.Clarifying SEC vs. CFTC Authority:
Digital commodities would fall under CFTC jurisdiction, while the SEC would retain authority over assets resembling investment contracts, especially those with profit expectations tied to a third party’s efforts.Stablecoin Oversight and Reserve Requirements:
Issuers would face federal registration and strict prudential standards, including full reserves in eligible assets, regular audits, and anti-money laundering (AML) protocols—drawing parallels with the Lummis-Gillibrand Payment Stablecoin Act.Consumer Disclosures:
Retail-facing platforms would be required to deliver a standardized “digital asset disclosure form,” mirroring mutual fund prospectuses to inform users about risks, fees, and legal standing.Custody and Commingling Protections:
Intermediaries would be barred from mixing customer funds with corporate assets, with enhanced custody and recordkeeping practices designed to avoid failures akin to FTX.
Reactions and Outlook
The industry has responded with cautious optimism, welcoming the move toward regulatory clarity. However, concerns remain over the breadth of federal reach, especially as it pertains to software developers and decentralized protocols.
Regulatory agencies are divided. While the CFTC supports expanded authority over digital commodity markets, the SEC continues to assert a broad view of its existing jurisdiction.
Although still in discussion phase, the draft opens the door for bipartisan negotiations, and could intersect with parallel bills such as the GENIUS Act and the CLARITY Act, both of which aim to modernize digital asset laws.
Crypto Assets in Homeownership? Lummis Targets Mortgages Next
In a surprising intersection of crypto and housing finance, Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) has introduced the 21st Century Mortgage Act, a bill that would allow cryptocurrencies to be considered as assets during mortgage evaluations.
The legislation would codify a June 2025 directive from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), which instructs government-backed mortgage purchasers like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to explore incorporating digital assets in loan risk assessments.
“This legislation embraces an innovative path to wealth-building, keeping in mind the growing number of young Americans who possess digital assets,” said Senator Lummis.
A Generational Wealth Tool – Or a Risk Factor?
The proposal comes amid generational shifts in asset ownership. According to U.S. Census data, homeownership among Americans under 35 sits at just 36% as of Q1 2025—well below historical averages.
The bill would allow crypto-holding borrowers to leverage their digital wealth without converting to fiat, offering a new route to homeownership. However, Senate Democrats have raised concerns, citing crypto's volatility and liquidity risks that may complicate borrower stability.
In a July 24 letter, several lawmakers urged FHFA Director William Pulte to fully examine the systemic implications of such a move.
Momentum Builds Across Chambers
The 21st Century Mortgage Act is one of several crypto bills expected to be discussed after the Senate’s August recess. Others include:
A market structure bill that defines how crypto assets are traded and regulated.
A House-passed bill barring the Federal Reserve from launching a central bank digital currency (CBDC).
A House companion bill, the American Homeowner Crypto Modernization Act, introduced by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), which also mandates that mortgage lenders consider digital asset balances held on registered exchanges.
Globally, similar initiatives are taking shape. Australia-based Block Earner recently announced Bitcoin-backed mortgage offerings, following a court ruling that its crypto lending services did not qualify as financial products under Australian law.
Conclusion: Crypto Enters the Regulatory and Housing Mainstream
From stablecoin regulation to mortgage underwriting, digital assets are entering formal policy discussions across U.S. institutions. The Senate’s regulatory proposals reflect a maturing market landscape—one that increasingly demands legal clarity, consumer protection, and financial integration.
While significant hurdles remain, these legislative developments suggest that digital assets are no longer peripheral. They are becoming part of the financial system’s foundation—not just as speculative investments, but as tools for access, collateralization, and wealth-building.
@ Newshounds News™
Sources:
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White House Readies Crypto ‘Regulatory Bible’ Amid Push for Strategic Bitcoin Reserve
New report expected to define U.S. digital asset rules for years to come
The White House is preparing to release a sweeping report this week that industry leaders have dubbed a “regulatory Bible”—a document expected to shape U.S. crypto policy and rulemaking for the foreseeable future.
The report stems from a January 2025 executive order by President Donald Trump establishing the President’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets, tasked with delivering a detailed roadmap on how federal agencies should approach the evolving digital asset economy. The working group includes Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and SEC Chair Paul Atkins, among others.
While the contents of the report have not been officially released, early insights suggest it will influence every major regulatory decision over the next three and a half years.
“This will dictate every rulemaking or guidance document that comes out,” said Cody Carbone, CEO of The Digital Chamber, in an interview with The Block. “I do think it is a big deal.”
Legislative Context: A Convergence of Bills and Executive Strategy
The timing of the report coincides with a flurry of congressional activity. In mid-July, the House passed both a stablecoin oversight bill and broader digital asset market regulation, sending them to the president’s desk or over to the Senate for reconciliation.
Senate Republicans have targeted September 30 as a date to vote on a companion digital asset bill. The White House report is expected to fill critical regulatory gaps, guiding both federal agencies and lawmakers as they refine legislative proposals like the GENIUS Act, the CLARITY Act, and emerging digital payment infrastructure bills.
Carbone noted that the report may also revisit or repeal prior agency guidance, helping to standardize how platforms, issuers, and consumers engage with digital assets.
Bitcoin Reserve Still Uncertain, But a Priority
One of the more ambitious proposals under discussion is the creation of a U.S. strategic bitcoin reserve—a concept floated by President Trump in a March 2025 executive order. That order tasked key administration officials with exploring budget-neutral strategies to acquire and manage a digital asset stockpile, including bitcoin, without adding cost to taxpayers.
However, sources indicate the upcoming report does not yet include language on the bitcoin reserve, although that could change prior to publication.
“Nothing is set in stone,” Carbone said. “But I’m hoping the report will shed light on how the administration plans to acquire bitcoin and what a stockpile would include.”
Industry Expectations: Tax Policy and Tokenized Securities in Focus
Alongside regulatory clarity, tax treatment of digital assets ranks among the industry’s top priorities.
The Digital Chamber submitted a letter to Bo Hines, Executive Director of the Presidential Council of Advisers for Digital Assets, emphasizing key industry needs:
Clear and consistent tax guidelines for digital asset transactions and holdings.
A legal framework for tokenized securities and digital commodities.
Harmonized federal oversight across agencies, avoiding duplicative compliance burdens.
“Tax clarity is number one,” Carbone said. “That needs to be one of the foundational portions of this report and where Washington leans in.”
A Pivotal Moment for U.S. Crypto Policy
Industry leaders are treating the forthcoming release as a watershed moment in U.S. digital asset policy.
“We look forward to the release tomorrow... a significant milestone following this year’s executive order on digital assets,” said Summer Mersinger, CEO of the Blockchain Association.
“While most of the actions have been agency or Congress driven, the White House’s prioritization of crypto has been evident,” added Ron Hammond, head of policy and advocacy at Wintermute.
A briefing is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, involving both government officials and select industry stakeholders. It remains unclear whether the full report will be released before or after the session.
If fully realized, the report could define a national crypto strategy—from regulatory harmonization to strategic asset acquisition, tax reform, and digital infrastructure development. As the federal government accelerates its crypto policymaking, the industry is now positioned at a critical juncture between legitimacy and liability, growth and governance.
@ Newshounds News™
Source: The Block
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BlackRock Endorses Stablecoins as Key to Strengthening U.S. Dollar Dominance
GENIUS Act Seen as Dual Catalyst for U.S. Treasury Demand and Global Dollar Supremacy
BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager with over $12.5 trillion in AUM, has added its voice to a growing chorus of analysts and policymakers suggesting that stablecoins could significantly enhance the U.S. dollar’s dominance in a rapidly digitizing global economy.
In a recent weekly commentary, BlackRock strategists praised the newly established U.S. stablecoin regulatory framework as a "step in the right direction" for the dollar. Their position reinforces the narrative that tokenized versions of the U.S. dollar, under proper regulation, could extend the reach of America’s fiat currency into new international use cases—including on-chain institutional settlement.
“Tokenized forms of the U.S. dollar will bolster its dominance, especially as institutional transactions move on-chain,” BlackRock noted.
“Stablecoins are part of the future of finance.”
GENIUS Act Ushers in First-Ever Federal Crypto Framework
The commentary follows passage of the GENIUS Stablecoin Act, the first federal crypto bill to be signed into law in the United States. The bipartisan legislation provides a regulatory blueprint for stablecoin issuers and outlines strict reserve requirements intended to strengthen market confidence and tie stablecoins directly to U.S. financial infrastructure.
BlackRock analysts highlighted that the law’s mandate for stablecoin issuers to hold reserves in U.S. Treasuries, money market funds, and repurchase agreements will generate a dual benefit:
Boost demand for short-term U.S. debt instruments, and
Enhance the credibility and attractiveness of stablecoins in both domestic and international markets.
From Under $50B to $273B: Stablecoins Enter Institutional Era
The stablecoin market has expanded from under $50 billion in 2021 to $273 billion as of July 2025, with rapid institutional integration now underway. The two largest stablecoin issuers—Tether and Circle—currently hold a combined $120 billion in U.S. Treasury bills, already representing 2% of the $6 trillion Treasury market.
As stablecoins gain traction across emerging markets, cross-border payments, and decentralized finance, BlackRock expects their share of Treasury demand to grow significantly, potentially reshaping liquidity flows in short-term government securities.
Dollar’s Digital Edge: First-Mover Advantage in Global Payments
While the U.S. dollar already dominates global trade, the rise of Bitcoin and other non-sovereign digital assets poses new challenges to fiat relevance. Stablecoins, especially those pegged to the U.S. dollar, offer a strategic counterbalance—allowing the greenback to maintain its primacy within blockchain-based financial systems.
“Stablecoins expose the dollar to entirely new digital use cases,” BlackRock stated, especially in jurisdictions where local currencies are unstable or access to U.S. dollars is restricted.
However, the firm cautioned that a prohibition on interest-bearing stablecoins—included in the GENIUS Act—could limit their appeal in certain major markets, particularly those where competitive yield is essential for adoption.
Bitcoin's Parallel Role: Risk, Return, and Digital Hedging
In the same analysis, BlackRock acknowledged that Bitcoin will also play a crucial role in the digital financial future—but as a risk asset rather than a stable store of value. While the firm has promoted BTC through its iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBTC) and other financial instruments, BlackRock continues to position Bitcoin as complementary to stablecoins, not a replacement for fiat.
The firm’s growing footprint in both tokenized assets and digital infrastructure aligns with its broader push to modernize capital markets through blockchain rails, tokenized securities, and programmable money.
Conclusion: GENIUS Act as a Catalyst for U.S. Financial Dominance
BlackRock’s analysis underscores a broader reality taking shape: stablecoins, when regulated effectively, are not threats to sovereign money—but vehicles for extending its reach. The GENIUS Act represents not only a breakthrough in digital asset policy, but also a strategic maneuver in currency diplomacy, ensuring the U.S. dollar remains embedded in the next generation of global finance.
As demand for digitally native, regulated, dollar-backed assets rises, the GENIUS framework—and the market it enables—could redefine the contours of both monetary power and international trade.
@ Newshounds News™
Source: The Crypto Basic
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The $1 Quadrillion Time Bomb, Dollar Endgame, and Post-Collapse Hope
The $1 Quadrillion Time Bomb, Dollar Endgame, and Post-Collapse Hope
Liberty and Finance: 7-29-2025
In a recent interview with Liberty and Finance, financial analyst Phil Low explains that the derivatives complex, a financial instrument worth over a quadrillion dollars, sits atop the global financial system as the peak of Exter’s inverted pyramid.
This complex, often hidden from public view and off the books of financial institutions, represents a staggering amount of off-balance-sheet financial bets that threaten to bring down the entire system if they begin to unravel.
The $1 Quadrillion Time Bomb, Dollar Endgame, and Post-Collapse Hope
Liberty and Finance: 7-29-2025
In a recent interview with Liberty and Finance, financial analyst Phil Low explains that the derivatives complex, a financial instrument worth over a quadrillion dollars, sits atop the global financial system as the peak of Exter’s inverted pyramid.
This complex, often hidden from public view and off the books of financial institutions, represents a staggering amount of off-balance-sheet financial bets that threaten to bring down the entire system if they begin to unravel.
Derivatives, such as options, futures, and swaps, are financial instruments that derive their value from an underlying asset or security, such as stocks, bonds, or commodities.
While these instruments can be used to hedge risk and manage exposure, their complexity and the potential for misuse have led to concerns about their impact on the stability of the global financial system.
The derivatives market’s rapid growth is not a failure of capitalism, as some might argue, but rather a distortion caused by central banks enabling infinite credit expansion without market discipline. Central banks, particularly the U.S. Federal Reserve, have pursued policies of ultra-low interest rates and quantitative easing, which have fueled asset bubbles and encouraged excessive risk-taking by financial institutions. This has led to a massive buildup of leverage and speculative bets in the derivatives market.
If the derivatives market were to begin unraveling, through margin calls or a refusal to extend credit, it could instantly freeze the financial system. In such a scenario, the Federal Reserve would be forced to print trillions of dollars overnight just to keep the system afloat. This has led some to question the sustainability of the current system, which relies on constant intervention by central banks to prevent collapse.
In a true free market, institutions would bear the consequences of their risk-taking, but under the current system, the losses are socialized while the profits remain private.
Unless we restore sound money and allow markets to self-correct, this vast structure of speculative leverage teeters ever closer to collapse.
To prevent a potential catastrophe, it is crucial to address the root causes of the problem, including excessive leverage, moral hazard, and the distorting effects of central bank policies. This may require a fundamental rethinking of the role of central banks in the global economy and a return to sound money principles that prioritize market discipline and stability over short-term gains.
In conclusion, the derivatives complex represents a quadrillion-dollar time bomb that threatens to bring down the global financial system.
To prevent a potential collapse, we must address the underlying causes of the problem and restore sound money principles that prioritize market discipline and stability over short-term gains. Watch the full video from Liberty and Finance for further insights and information on this critical issue.
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Wednesday Morning 7-30-25
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How BRICS Is Reshaping the Emerging Multipolar World
From Expansion to Internal Division: The Global South’s Strategic Realignment Faces Tests
The BRICS alliance is no longer a concept in transition—it is an evolving geopolitical force shaping the emerging multipolar world in real time. At the July 6–7 summit in Rio de Janeiro, BRICS officially expanded to 11 full members, strengthening its claim as the largest Global South alliance and advancing its ambition to create an alternative to Western-dominated global institutions.
Good Morning Dinar Recaps,
How BRICS Is Reshaping the Emerging Multipolar World
From Expansion to Internal Division: The Global South’s Strategic Realignment Faces Tests
The BRICS alliance is no longer a concept in transition—it is an evolving geopolitical force shaping the emerging multipolar world in real time. At the July 6–7 summit in Rio de Janeiro, BRICS officially expanded to 11 full members, strengthening its claim as the largest Global South alliance and advancing its ambition to create an alternative to Western-dominated global institutions.
With this expansion, BRICS now represents a powerful cross-continental coalition—but its path to becoming a cohesive global counterweight remains uneven.
Expansion Without Cohesion: Cracks in the Multipolar Blueprint
While the summit concluded with the 126-point Rio Declaration, internal challenges became evident. Notably, Chinese President Xi Jinping was absent, Russian President Vladimir Putin attended virtually, and top leaders from Egypt and Iran—both new members—were also no-shows.
“Many of the 180 working groups launched under Brazil’s BRICS presidency reportedly failed to meet. They signalled a bloc expanding in size but eroding in cohesion.” — Felipe Porto, Brazilian Foreign Policy Observatory
Despite these gaps, the declaration underscored a shared commitment to multilateralism, condemning military strikes and trade coercion—though it notably stopped short of naming the United States.
Historical Continuity: BRICS and the Legacy of the Global South
The ideological foundation of BRICS can be traced to the 1955 Bandung Conference, where newly independent nations articulated the “Ten Principles of Peace” that would shape the Non-Aligned Movement. Today’s BRICS nations claim to be the heirs of that Global South vision.
“BRICS is the heir to the Non-Aligned Movement... the first organization to unify Global South nations.”
— Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva
However, the bloc’s composition reveals contradictions. Four BRICS members are former Soviet states, absent from the historical Global South coalition. This hybrid identity reflects both the bloc’s potential and the fault lines within its expanding membership.
Trump’s Threats: Western Pushback Against the BRICS Challenge
The most immediate response to BRICS’s global ambitions came from U.S. President Donald Trump, who issued a sharp warning following the Rio summit:
“Any country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% tariff. There will be no exceptions.”
This escalation demonstrates how BRICS’s growing global influence is now seen as a direct economic and geopolitical threat to the U.S.-led international order. The clash between Western hegemony and South-South cooperation is entering a more aggressive phase.
“BRICS is designed to suit autocracies... used by authoritarian powers like China and Russia to promote an alternative world order.” — Natalie Sabanadze, Chatham House
She also pointed to a “growing rift” within BRICS—between the China-Russia axis and other members over the bloc’s strategic direction.
Can Southeast Asia Redefine BRICS’s Future?
The future trajectory of BRICS may hinge on its democratic members, particularly the four ASEAN nations that joined: Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. These nations could play a pivotal role in shaping a less autocratic, more development-oriented alliance.
“As Southeast Asian countries deepen their engagement, the choices they make will help determine whether BRICS can evolve into a credible counterweight to Western dominance or falter under the weight of its own diversity.”
— M.A. Hossain, geopolitical analyst
This emerging multipolar world now features a bloc that reflects both the opportunity of expanded multilateralism and the challenge of maintaining cohesion across diverse political systems and interests.
Conclusion: BRICS at a Crossroads
The Rio summit proved that BRICS is growing in reach but not yet in unity. Its ambition to serve as the institutional core of a multipolar world faces major tests—from internal fragmentation to external confrontation. Yet, the bloc continues to assert itself as a strategic platform for Global South nations seeking more equitable global governance.
The coming months—especially with tariff threats from the U.S., growing digital currency initiatives, and regional realignments—will determine whether BRICS can transition from symbolic opposition to operational alternative.
@ Newshounds News™
Source: Watcher.Guru
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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Evening 7-29-25
Sudani Advisor: Iraq Is Making International Progress And Reducing Pressure On The Dollar.
July 29, 2025 Baghdad/Iraq Observer The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, confirmed on Tuesday that the expansion of electronic transactions has contributed to reducing speculation and unreal demand for the dollar, which has lowered its price on the parallel market. He also indicated that reliance on digital payment tools has led to a decline in the volume of cash dollar trading.
Sudani Advisor: Iraq Is Making International Progress And Reducing Pressure On The Dollar.
July 29, 2025 Baghdad/Iraq Observer The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, confirmed on Tuesday that the expansion of electronic transactions has contributed to reducing speculation and unreal demand for the dollar, which has lowered its price on the parallel market. He also indicated that reliance on digital payment tools has led to a decline in the volume of cash dollar trading.
“The expansion of the use of bank cards and electronic transactions has contributed to reducing the margin of speculation and the unreal demand for the dollar, especially after linking transfers and trade finance operations to digital data and pre-verification of documents, such as the advance customs declaration,”
Saleh said in a press statement monitored by the Iraq Observer. He explained that “citizens’ reliance on digital payment tools, both locally and during foreign travel, has led to a decline in the volume of cash circulation in dollars outside the official system.”
Saleh explained that “this has begun to have positive impacts at the international level, given Iraq’s membership in the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF),
a regional organization established in 2004 that works to combat
money laundering,
terrorist financing, and the
proliferation of weapons in the region,
in line with the forty recommendations issued by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in Paris.”
He pointed out that "Iraq, through its digital advancements, has made tangible progress, particularly with enhanced compliance with the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force and international compliance practices.
This has positively impacted Iraq's current stable credit ratings and opened up broader horizons for better engagement with global correspondent banks, as we can see from the decline in the dollar exchange rate against the official rate in the parallel market in recent months."
He emphasized that "modern electronic technology can be leveraged in Iraq through three complementary paths, the most important of which, based on the government's program, is the digital transformation of public finances and economic governance, which includes several directions, including:
automating taxes and customs to maximize non-oil revenues,
digitizing government contracts, and
distributing support to eligible groups, in addition to
enhancing transparency and
combating corruption through the presence of a digital fingerprint for every transaction ."
Regarding innovation and small business technology, Saleh noted that "digital technology development paths are taking on more modern dimensions, most notably supporting digital entrepreneurship, such as
e-commerce,
delivery apps,
distance learning, and others.
This also includes funding startups in the fields of
artificial intelligence,
smart agriculture, and
solar energy, in addition to
building digital platforms for vocational training and market access." He added,
"There is a trend toward a transition to a data and knowledge economy in close conjunction,
through the establishment of national data centers,
the use of artificial intelligence in planning,
and the enhancement of internet infrastructure and the achievement of equitable access to it in accordance with global standards for digital justice, while emphasizing the importance of supporting the higher education sector towards digital and technical specializations."
He pointed out that "these trends will undoubtedly contribute to
creating sustainable jobs,
reducing operating costs, and increasing the productivity of the national economy in a promising digital era for Iraq." https://observeriraq.net/مستشار-للسوداني-العراق-يحقق-تقدماً-دو/
Gold Continues To Soar... Where Will It Reach In 2026?
Stock Exchange Analysts expect gold prices to remain above $3,000 per ounce in the coming period, supported by increased demand for safe-haven assets amid rising concerns related to global trade and worsening sovereign debt levels.
A Reuters poll of 40 analysts and traders showed that the median forecast for the gold price in 2025 is $3,220 per ounce, compared to $3,065 in the April poll, while the estimate for 2026 rose to $3,400 from $3,000 previously.
Spot gold prices have risen 27% since the beginning of this year, reaching a record high of $3,500 per ounce in April, amid escalating trade tensions between the United States and China, which prompted investors to seek safe havens.
David Russell, marketing director at Goldcore, said: “The first half of 2025 has confirmed what we have long believed; Gold is not just a hedge, it's a market signal," he said, predicting that the price could reach $4,000 by the end of 2026 if concerns about the US financial situation worsen.
Gold's appeal as a safe haven has been heightened by uncertainty over the deadlines for major US trade agreements, as well as financial concerns sparked by US President Donald Trump's passage of a massive bill dubbed the "Big, Beautiful Act," which independent analysts expect will add $3.3 trillion to the US national debt.
However, gold has failed to recapture its April peak, with Julius Baer analyst Carsten Menke saying the "short-term sideways movement is likely to continue in the absence of an immediate catalyst to push prices higher."
Most analysts believe that central banks remain the main driver of gold's rise, as part of their long-term efforts to diversify their reserves away from the dollar's dominance. China has continued to boost its gold reserves for the eighth consecutive month, while a European Central Bank survey showed that nearly 40% of central banks consider geopolitical risks a key reason for holding gold.
"The multipolar world continues, and with it, central banks' desire to reduce their reliance on the US dollar as a reserve currency and, in extreme cases, reduce their exposure to US sanctions," Minke said.
Silver prices have jumped 32% since the beginning of 2025, outperforming gold and approaching the $40 per ounce barrier for the first time in 14 years.
Analysts revised their 2025 silver price forecast to $34.52 per ounce, up from $33.10 in the previous survey, supported by concerns about US tariff policies, signs of tight supply in the spot market, and increased investor appetite for silver as an alternative to gold.
For 2026, the median forecast rose to $38 per ounce from $34.58 previously.
Suki Cooper, an analyst at Standard Chartered, said that most of these gains were the result of strong inflows into exchange-traded products, warning that a slowdown in this momentum could leave silver vulnerable to a decline despite expectations of a new market deficit this year. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=58029
The Dollar Exchange Rate Remains Stable In Baghdad.
Economy | 07/29/2025 Mawazine News - Baghdad - The dollar exchange rate witnessed remarkable stability against the dinar in local markets on Tuesday.
The selling price reached 140,250 dinars per $100, while the buying price reached 138,250 dinars per $100. https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=264356
For current and reliable Iraqi news please visit: https://www.bondladyscorner.com
“Tidbits From TNT” Tuesday 7-29-2025
TNT:
Tishwash: Bilateral meeting with China: Iraq seeks to strengthen its relationship with its neighbors, especially Kuwait.
Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein affirmed on Monday that dialogue and negotiation are the best way to resolve regional disputes, noting Iraq's efforts to strengthen its relations with neighboring countries, particularly Kuwait.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement received by Dijlah News that “Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein met on Monday with the Chinese government’s Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs, Zhai Jun, on the sidelines of the conference hosted by the United Nations on the Palestinian issue, at the headquarters of the Iraqi mission to the organization in New York.”
TNT:
Tishwash: Bilateral meeting with China: Iraq seeks to strengthen its relationship with its neighbors, especially Kuwait.
Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein affirmed on Monday that dialogue and negotiation are the best way to resolve regional disputes, noting Iraq's efforts to strengthen its relations with neighboring countries, particularly Kuwait.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement received by Dijlah News that “Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein met on Monday with the Chinese government’s Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs, Zhai Jun, on the sidelines of the conference hosted by the United Nations on the Palestinian issue, at the headquarters of the Iraqi mission to the organization in New York.”
He added, "The meeting discussed bilateral relations between Iraq and China, and exchanged views on the situation in the region, particularly developments in the Palestinian issue and the worsening humanitarian tragedy in Gaza."
The statement added that "the minister highlighted Iraq's position on the ongoing events in Gaza," while expressing his thanks to China for "its supportive stance on Palestinian rights and its standing with the Palestinian people during the difficult circumstances they are experiencing."
He pointed out that "Fuad Hussein reviewed Iraq's vision regarding the overall situation in the region," and while stressing that "dialogue and negotiation constitute the best way to resolve regional disputes," he pointed out that "Iraq seeks to strengthen its relations with neighboring countries, especially with the sisterly State of Kuwait, in a way that ensures the building of distinguished relations based on mutual respect and common interests."
The statement quoted the Chinese envoy as saying that his country "supports Iraq's positions and balanced policies on regional issues," noting that "the two sides share identical views regarding the need to enhance regional stability and intensify joint efforts to achieve security and peace." link
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Tishwash: Payment of dues in black oil and tightening controls at ports are the main reasons for the dollar's decline.
10 interpretations from expert Manar Al-Abidi
Economic researcher Manar Al-Obaidi reviewed 10 reasons behind the decline in the dollar exchange rate against the dinar in Iraqi markets on Monday, stressing that they have collectively created an economic environment that has contributed to strengthening the dinar's value.
He pointed out that these reasons range from direct economic factors, such as deflation and a decline in spending, to procedural and regulatory factors, such as tightening border controls and traders' shift to the formal banking system, in addition to circumstantial factors related to the elections and the increasing number of expatriates.
The exchange rate of the dollar against the Iraqi dinar has witnessed a significant decline recently. This decline is due to a combination of intertwined economic and procedural factors, which vary in their impact but have collectively contributed to strengthening the dinar.
The most prominent of these factors are:
1- Economic contraction and declining consumer confidence:
The uncertainty facing the Iraqi market due to the economic slowdown has led to a decline in individual and institutional spending confidence, negatively impacting overall demand and thus reducing the need for the dollar as a catalyst for trade.
2- Stopping government investment expenditures:
The government's focus on operating spending rather than investment has slowed economic activity. Since the general budget is the primary driver of economic activity, reducing investment spending has reduced aggregate demand, including demand for the dollar.
3- Tightening control over border crossings:
Government measures to prevent smuggling and regulate relations with the Kurdistan Region have helped curb the phenomenon of overbilling, reducing the unreal demand for dollars on the parallel market.
4- Merchants’ transition to the formal banking system:
Markets have witnessed a large segment of traders entering the formal banking system and adopting the official dollar exchange rate through approved platforms, which has reduced trading volume in the parallel market and eased pressure on the dollar.
5- Decline in re-export operations:
The decline in re-export activity to neighboring countries has reduced demand for imported goods, which has directly impacted the need for dollars to finance these trade transactions.
6- Settling the dues of major companies with petroleum products instead of cash:
The government has settled part of its debts to foreign companies in black oil and naphtha instead of cash, reducing reliance on dollars sold by the central bank and increasing their supply in the market.
7- Preparations for the electoral process:
As the election season begins, campaign spending increases. This spending is often financed from dollar reserves, which necessitates converting large amounts of these reserves into dinars to cover campaign expenses, thus increasing the supply of dollars.
8- Increase in the number of foreign visitors and arrivals:
The increasing number of immigrants to Iraq has brought significant amounts of foreign currency into the local market, providing an additional source of hard currency outside of central bank sales and contributing to increased dollar availability.
9- The cessation of illegal trade as a result of the closure of the border with Syria:
The closure of border crossings with Syria has curbed smuggling and illegal trade, which was heavily reliant on dollars on the parallel market, leading to a further decline in demand for the dollar.
10- Decrease in the issued currency and withdrawal of part of it from the market:
The Central Bank of Iraq withdrew a portion of the dinar money supply from the market, creating a double demand for the Iraqi dinar against the dollar. This balance in demand for the two currencies helped strengthen the value of the dinar and raise its exchange rate against the dollar in the parallel market. link
************
Tishwash: Iraq replaces the dollar with gold: a yellow shield against economic storms.
Economic expert Nasser Al-Kanani revealed on Monday (July 28, 2025) that Iraq's position as the Arab country with the largest gold purchases represents a strategic shift in the Central Bank's approach to enhancing the country's financial stability.
Al-Kanani told Baghdad Today, "Iraq's purchase of more than 20 tons of gold in a single year, and its rise to seventh place globally in this field, reflects a calculated move by the Central Bank to protect the national economy from fluctuations in foreign currency prices, especially the dollar."
He pointed out that "gold is considered one of the safest reserve instruments, as it is not affected by fluctuations in the monetary market, unlike paper currencies. This gives Iraq a strategic advantage in confronting sudden crises and enhances confidence in its financial policies, both domestically and internationally."
Al-Kanani explained that "this trend will positively impact the value of the Iraqi dinar in the medium term. It will also contribute to the stability of the local market and reduce reliance on the dollar, giving the Central Bank greater flexibility in managing monetary policy and achieving economic stability in light of current regional and global challenges link
Mot: Sum mor ""Marriage/Family Tips"" frum ole Mot of Course!!
Mot: And then the ""Fight"" Started!!!
Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Morning 7-29-25
Government Program And Economic Policies Revive The Dinar
Economic 07/28/2025 Baghdad: Anwar Ayed In its third year of implementation, the government program continues to make steady progress toward achieving its economic goals, despite the complex challenges posed by regional and international realities, particularly regarding the threat of war,fluctuations in energy markets, and volatile global economic cycles.
However, national growth indicators remain evident across various infrastructure sectors,
supported by remarkable levels of economic stability, most notably the annual inflation rate remaining below the 3 percent mark.
Government Program And Economic Policies Revive The Dinar
Economic 07/28/2025 Baghdad: Anwar Ayed In its third year of implementation, the government program continues to make steady progress toward achieving its economic goals, despite the complex challenges posed by regional and international realities, particularly regarding the threat of war,fluctuations in energy markets, and volatile global economic cycles.
However, national growth indicators remain evident across various infrastructure sectors,
supported by remarkable levels of economic stability, most notably the annual inflation rate remaining below the 3 percent mark.
This indicates the ability of economic policy to absorb shocks and manage resources relatively efficiently.
qualitative transformations
In this context, Dr. Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, the Prime Minister's financial advisor, told Al-Sabah that the parallel currency market has witnessed a qualitative transformation over the past period.
Previously, it was governed by "noisy patterns" that generated sudden price fluctuations.
Today, it has become more stable and is gradually being driven by the official market.
Saleh attributes this shift to the effective coordination between fiscal, monetary, and trade policies,
which contributed to the flow of accurate and well-thought-out information signals,
enabling the market to shift from a state of volatility and speculation to a calmer trading environment more in line with the country's economic reality.
Integrated procedures
Saleh adds that this positive shift is the result of a series of integrated measures that have contributed to narrowing the gap between the official and parallel dollar rates, most notably the strict legal ban on dollar use in domestic transactions, particularly in the real estate market, which is one of the most sensitive sectors.
He added, "The transition to a mechanism for financing foreign trade through global correspondent banks, rather than relying exclusively on the central bank's window, has contributed to reducing compliance risks and decreasing reliance on the informal market."
Another factor that has contributed to enhanced market stability, the advisor said,is the entry of small importers into the official dollar financing network, without the need for money exchange companies.
This has facilitated their access to foreign currency at direct official exchange rates,
especially since their trade represents approximately 60 percent of the private sector's foreign trade.
Administrative facilities
Dr. Saleh points out that this transformation was achieved through administrative facilitation provided by the government and the reduction of bureaucratic loopholes that previously hindered import financing and implementation.
The financial advisor emphasized that the expanding use of electronic payment cards in foreign currency, particularly among travelers, has been an additional factor in reducing pressure on the cash dollar, given the availability of cash allocations at the official exchange rate through banking outlets located throughout airports, and with flexible and organized compliance mechanisms.
He pointed to the role played by cooperative societies, food baskets, and construction goods, which are imported in dollars at the official exchange rate of 1,320 dinars, in supporting the price stability policy.
This has enabled the government to use trade as a tool to achieve monetary stability, as part of an integrated strategy for economic policies in implementing the government program.
Fluctuations in the US economy
In contrast, financial and economic expert Dr. Safwan Qusay pointed out that the Iraqi dinar, despite its relative resilience, remains vulnerable to the effects of global markets and fluctuations in the US economy. Speaking to Al-Sabah, he pointed out that the new customs restrictions imposed by the US administration on some imports have weakened exports from key countries such as China, Japan, the European Union, and Canada.
This has led to a relative decline in the value of the US dollar globally, which opens the way for the Federal Reserve to consider reducing interest rates, which could negatively impact the dollar's attractiveness as a reserve currency.
Qusay believes that the Iraqi market is often subsequently affected by these shifts, which may partly explain the recent decline in the dollar's price in the informal market, due to the potential entry of cash dollars into Iraq via neighboring countries amid these changes.
strong bumpers
Qusay warns that the continued decline in the value of the dollar could pose future risks to the central bank's reserves, especially with an increasing number of countries diversifying their reserves away from the US dollar and resorting to gold or other currencies.
However, Qusay emphasized that Iraq still possesses strong buffers that protect it from these risks, most notably its massive dollar reserves at the central bank and its possession of more than 116 tons of gold, which is also witnessing a rise in value globally. He also points out that current oil prices remain at levels sufficient to ensure the stability of the dinar in the long term. near.
Qusay believes that maintaining this stability requires the Central Bank to review its reserve anagement strategies and ensure they are not affected by dollar fluctuations. He also believes that
it is necessary to accelerate steps to diversify the economy and control revenues and expenditures to avoid any potential repercussions of the dollar's decline on the value of the Iraqi dinar. https://alsabaah.iq/118107-.html
Trump & Crypto: Will Bitcoin's Success Translate To The Iraqi Dinar?
19th July 2025 in Investment, Iraq Banking & Finance News By Guest Blogger. https://www.iraq-businessnews.com/custom-search/?searchtext=%22guest+blogger%22&swcfpc=1
Any opinions expressed are those of the author(s), and do not necessarily reflect the views of Iraq Business News.
Trump's Policies and Cryptocurrency: Will Bitcoin's Success Translate to the Iraqi Dinar?
The relationship between political leadership and financial markets has rarely been as pronounced as it is today with cryptocurrency.
Since Donald Trump's return to the presidency in January 2025, Bitcoin has experienced remarkable gains, prompting investors to wonder whether this success might extend to other alternative investments like the Iraqi Dinar, where some people expect a significant dinar revaluation.
However, the fundamental differences between these assets reveal why Bitcoin's trajectory under Trump's administration is unlikely to be replicated by the Iraqi Dinar.
Bitcoin's Meteoric Rise Under Trump's Pro-Crypto Policies
Bitcoin has demonstrated extraordinary performance since Trump's re-election, with the cryptocurrency surging approximately 60% since November 2024 and reaching heights of $111,000. This dramatic increase can be attributed to several specific policy initiatives and strategic decisions by the Trump administration.
The foundation of Bitcoin's success lies in Trump's complete reversal from his previous skeptical stance toward cryptocurrency.
During his campaign, Trump promised to make America "the crypto capital of the planet," and his administration has delivered on this promise through concrete legislative and regulatory actions.
In March 2025, Trump signed an executive order establishing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile, signaling the federal government's commitment to cryptocurrency adoption.
The administration's approach has been systematically supportive of the cryptocurrency industry.
Congress recently passed the first major crypto legislation in U.S. history, providing regulatory clarity that has been long sought by the industry.
This regulatory framework has reduced uncertainty and encouraged institutional investment,
contributing to Bitcoin's price appreciation.
Trump's appointees reflect this pro-crypto stance, with one in five top administration picks holding cryptocurrency assets, some worth millions of dollars.
This alignment between policy and personal investment demonstrates the administration's genuine commitment to cryptocurrency adoption rather than mere political rhetoric.
The Iraqi Dinar: A Fundamentally Different Asset
The Iraqi Dinar operates in an entirely different economic and political ecosystem from Bitcoin.
While Bitcoin is a decentralized digital asset that responds to global market forces and regulatory changes, the Iraqi Dinar is a sovereign currency tied to Iraq's economic fundamentals and monetary policy decisions.
Current exchange rate data shows the Iraqi Dinar trading at approximately 1,310 dinars per U.S. dollar as of July 2025, representing minimal fluctuation over the past year.
The International Monetary Fund projects an average exchange rate of 1,300 dinars per dollar for both 2025 and 2026,indicating expectations of stability rather than dramatic appreciation.
The Central Bank of Iraq has successfully transitioned to a new trade finance system managed by commercial banks, which has contributed to exchange rate stability.
However, this stability is precisely what differentiates the Dinar from Bitcoin
- the Iraqi currency is managed to maintain purchasing power rather than to serve as a speculative investment vehicle.
Why Trump's Crypto Policies Won't Impact the Dinar
Several fundamental factors explain why Trump's cryptocurrency-friendly policies cannot replicate Bitcoin's success with the Iraqi Dinar:
Regulatory Jurisdiction: Trump's policies directly impact assets under U.S. regulatory authority.
Bitcoin, as a global digital asset traded on U.S. exchanges and held by U.S. institutions, falls within this sphere of influence.
The Iraqi Dinar, however, is governed by Iraq's Central Bank and monetary policy, which operates independently of U.S. cryptocurrency regulations.
Asset Classification: Bitcoin is treated as a digital commodity and investment vehicle, making it responsive to regulatory changes that affect investor sentiment and institutional adoption.
The Iraqi Dinar functions as a national currency with exchange rates determined by economic fundamentals such as oil revenues, trade balances, and monetary policy decisions.
Market Dynamics: Bitcoin's price appreciation stems from increased institutional adoption,
regulatory clarity, and speculative investment driven by Trump's supportive policies.
The Iraqi Dinar's value is tied to Iraq's economic performance, oil exports, and regional stability
-factors largely unrelated to U.S. cryptocurrency policy.
Investment Infrastructure: The cryptocurrency ecosystem has developed sophisticated trading platforms, custody solutions, and financial products that respond rapidly to policy changes.
The Iraqi Dinar lacks this infrastructure for speculative investment, with most transactions occurring through traditional foreign exchange channels focused on trade and remittances rather than investment.
Economic Realities and Market Projections
Financial forecasts for the Iraqi Dinar suggest continued stability rather than dramatic appreciation.
Market projections indicate potential slight depreciation, with the exchange rate possibly reaching around 1,318 IQD per USD by the end of 2025.
These projections reflect expectations of gradual economic adjustments rather than the explosive growth seen in Bitcoin.
Iraq's economy remains heavily dependent on oil revenues, which are calculated based on the exchange rate of 1,300 dinars to one dollar in the federal budget.
This dependency on commodity prices and the government's fiscal management creates a fundamentally different value proposition from Bitcoin's technology-driven and adoption-based appreciation.
The Broader Investment Landscape
The contrast between Bitcoin and the Iraqi Dinar illustrates a broader principle about how different asset classes respond to political and regulatory changes.
Bitcoin's success under Trump's administration demonstrates the power of regulatory clarity and institutional support for emerging asset classes.
The cryptocurrency's decentralized nature and global trading infrastructure make it particularly responsive to positive policy developments.
Traditional currencies,even those from developing economies, operate within established monetary systems designed for stability rather than speculation.
The Iraqi Dinar's role as a medium of exchange and store of value for Iraq's economy necessitates careful management to prevent the volatility that investors seek in alternative assets.
Conclusion
While Trump's pro-cryptocurrency policies have created a favorable environment for Bitcoin's remarkable performance, these same policies cannot produce similar results for the Iraqi Dinar.
The fundamental differences between a decentralized digital asset and a sovereign currency mean that
each responds to entirely different sets of economic and political factors.
Bitcoin's success under Trump's administration reflects the power of regulatory support and institutional adoption in driving speculative asset prices.
The Iraqi Dinar's stability reflects the careful monetary management required to maintain a functioning national currency.
Investors considering whether Trump's policies might benefit the Iraqi Dinar should recognize that the two assets exist in fundamentally different economic ecosystems, with success metrics that are not only different but often contradictory.
The lesson for investors is clear: while political leadership can significantly impact certain asset classes,
the specific characteristics of each investment determine how it responds to policy changes.
Bitcoin's technological foundation and speculative nature ake it responsive to regulatory developments, while the
Iraqi Dinar's role as a national currency requires it to prioritize stability over explosive growth.
https://www.iraq-businessnews.com/2025/07/19/trump-crypto-will-bitcoins-success-translate-to-the-iraqi-dinar/
For current and reliable Iraqi news please visit: https://www.bondladyscorner.com
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Tuesday Morning 7-29-25.
Good Morning Dinar Recaps,
Ripple, Circle, Fidelity Among 6 Crypto Giants Racing for US Bank Charter
Institutional momentum accelerates as crypto firms pursue national regulatory alignment under a newly permissive OCC framework.
Federal Greenlight Incoming: 6 Crypto Banks Await OCC Approval
A major shift in federal crypto regulation is underway as six digital asset firms have applied for national bank charters with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC)—a move that would allow them to operate across the U.S. under a single regulatory umbrella.
Good Morning Dinar Recaps,
Ripple, Circle, Fidelity Among 6 Crypto Giants Racing for US Bank Charter
Institutional momentum accelerates as crypto firms pursue national regulatory alignment under a newly permissive OCC framework.
Federal Greenlight Incoming: 6 Crypto Banks Await OCC Approval
A major shift in federal crypto regulation is underway as six digital asset firms have applied for national bank charters with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC)—a move that would allow them to operate across the U.S. under a single regulatory umbrella.
The pending license applications, publicly listed on the OCC’s site, mark a sharp rise in institutional interest in offering crypto services within the framework of federally chartered banking. The submissions reflect growing industry alignment with national financial infrastructure as digital assets seek full-scale integration into the U.S. financial system.
The Applicants: Crypto and TradFi Heavyweights
The firms seeking a national charter include some of the most prominent names in digital assets and traditional finance:
Bitgo Bank & Trust, National Association – Application submitted July 14
Ripple National Trust Bank – Filed July 2
First National Digital Currency Bank, N.A. – Filed June 30 by Circle Internet Group
Erebor Bank, N.A. – Filed June 12
Fidelity Digital Assets, N.A. – Filed June 11
National Digital Trust Co. – Filed May 28
These proposed banks are structured as national trust banks, a charter that enables them to custody digital assets, issue stablecoins, and interact with public blockchains—all within a regulated environment that permits operations in all 50 states.
OCC Signals Regulatory Shift: Interpretive Letter 1183
The regulatory landscape dramatically changed in March 2025 with the OCC’s release of Interpretive Letter 1183, which eliminated the requirement for “supervisory non-objection” for national banks engaging in digital asset activities such as:
Custodying crypto assets
Managing stablecoin reserves
Running blockchain nodes
This reversal of earlier guidance now formally permits federally chartered institutions to offer crypto-related services without prior case-by-case approval.
In an official statement issued in May, the OCC declared:
“The federal banking system is well positioned to engage in digital asset activities.”
A Turn Away from Caution: OCC Withdraws from Fed/FDIC Crypto Warnings
In another critical development, the OCC has withdrawn its endorsement of prior joint statements with the Federal Reserve and FDIC, which had urged caution on crypto risks and discouraged use of public blockchains.
By stepping back from these earlier risk bulletins, the OCC is positioning itself to encourage responsible innovation, reduce regulatory friction, and standardize oversight across the federal banking system.
Implications: A Unified Path for Crypto Banking
If approved, these charters would allow Ripple, Circle, Fidelity, and others to operate nationally regulated crypto banks, providing services once siloed by state-by-state licensing frameworks.
This convergence of crypto and traditional banking signals a new era of legitimacy, where federally licensed crypto institutions may soon stand alongside legacy banks, backed by OCC oversight, and free to scale nationwide.
@ Newshounds News™
Source: Bitcoin.com
~~~~~~~~~
Rakbank and Bitpanda Launch UAE’s First Bank-Backed Crypto Trading Platform for Retail Customers
Strategic partnership signals UAE's accelerating push into regulated digital finance, bridging banking and blockchain through mobile-accessible crypto services.
Historic Milestone: Rakbank Becomes First Traditional UAE Bank to Offer Crypto Trading
The National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah (Rakbank) has officially become the first conventional bank in the United Arab Emirates to launch crypto trading for retail clients, in partnership with Bitpanda, a regulated Austrian digital asset infrastructure provider.
Through its mobile banking app, Rakbank now enables customers to buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrencies directly from their dirham-denominated current or savings accounts, eliminating the need for foreign exchange conversions or transfers to external crypto platforms.
This development marks a significant advancement in the UAE’s drive to become a global hub for digital finance, offering fully regulated, bank-backed crypto access for everyday investors.
How It Works: Seamless, AED-Denominated Crypto Brokerage
The crypto service is powered by Bitpanda Broker MENA DMCC, a Dubai-based entity licensed by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Bitpanda’s infrastructure enables:
Real-time crypto trading in AED (United Arab Emirates dirham)
No foreign exchange or remittance fees
Custody and execution under regulatory compliance
Mobile app integration for direct access from Rakbank accounts
By leveraging Bitpanda’s secure backend, Rakbank has removed the complexity traditionally associated with accessing crypto markets, offering a streamlined and compliant digital asset experience.
“We are proud to be the first conventional bank in the UAE to enable simple, secure, and regulated access to a world-class digital assets platform,” — Raheel Ahmed, Group CEO, Rakbank
Strategic Vision: UAE as a Blockchain and Crypto Hub
The new offering is currently available by invitation only, with a phased public rollout planned in the coming months.
Rakbank’s initiative follows its 2023 partnership with Bitpanda to co-develop a broader digital asset management platform, underscoring the bank’s belief that digital assets represent the future of finance.
“This partnership is a big moment for digital assets in the region,” — Lukas Enzersdorfer-Konrad, Deputy CEO, Bitpanda
Bitpanda, already working with Deutsche Bank, Raiffeisen Bank, and N26 in Europe, brings global institutional experience to the UAE’s crypto ecosystem.
Regulatory Tailwinds: UAE's Pro-Crypto Posture Strengthens
Rakbank’s crypto launch coincides with broader moves by UAE authorities to establish the region as a blockchain innovation leader:
Over 600 crypto companies have registered in the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre free zone.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and One Central are attracting global digital finance players.
In June, the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) approved Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin, reinforcing confidence in the jurisdiction's regulatory framework.
Conclusion: A Bank-Led Bridge Between Traditional Finance and Digital Assets
With this move, Rakbank sets a precedent for mainstream crypto adoption via conventional banking, offering UAE residents secure, regulated, and user-friendly access to digital assets—all in local currency and through existing banking relationships.
The Rakbank–Bitpanda collaboration is more than a feature update; it represents a transformative step toward the institutionalization of crypto in the Middle East—where banking and blockchain are no longer siloed, but seamlessly integrated.
@ Newshounds News™
Sources:
~~~~~~~~~
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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Monday Evening 7-28-25
Economist: 10 Reasons Behind The Decline In The Dollar Exchange Rate Against The Iraqi Dinar
Monday, July 28, 2025 14:38 | Economic Number of reads: 217 Baghdad / NINA / Economic expert, Manar Al-Obaidi, confirmed on Monday that the continuous decline in the dollar exchange rate against the Iraqi dinar is due to ten main reasons, noting that these factors are intertwined, and their varying impact has collectively contributed to strengthening the dinar in the parallel market.
Economist: 10 Reasons Behind The Decline In The Dollar Exchange Rate Against The Iraqi Dinar
Monday, July 28, 2025 14:38 | Economic Number of reads: 217 Baghdad / NINA / Economic expert, Manar Al-Obaidi, confirmed on Monday that the continuous decline in the dollar exchange rate against the Iraqi dinar is due to ten main reasons, noting that these factors are intertwined, and their varying impact has collectively contributed to strengthening the dinar in the parallel market.
Al-Obaidi explained in a post on his official Facebook page that the most prominent of these reasons are the state of "economic contraction and declining consumer confidence," the suspension of government investment expenditures, and the tightening of control over border crossings, in addition to traders' shift to official banking platforms, the decline in re-export operations, and the settlement of some foreign companies' dues in petroleum products instead of cash.
He pointed out that "preparations for the electoral process played a role in increasing the supply of the dollar after political blocs resorted to converting their cash reserves into dinars to finance their campaigns, while the increase in the number of foreign arrivals and the cessation of illegal trade with Syria contributed to increasing the availability of the dollar in the markets."
Al-Obaidi pointed out that: “The Central Bank’s withdrawal of a portion of the monetary supply in dinars created additional demand for the local currency, which led to a gradual decline in the dollar,” stressing that: “The arrangement of these reasons reflects the extent of each of their impact on the parallel market, without denying the existence of other undisclosed factors that may contribute to this decline.” /End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1243368
The Dollar Exchange Rate In Baghdad And Erbil Remains Stable.
Stock Exchange The dollar exchange rate stabilized against the Iraqi dinar on Monday afternoon in the markets of Baghdad and Erbil, coinciding with the closing of the stock exchange.
The dollar exchange rate stabilized at the close of trading on the Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya stock exchanges, recording 139,200 dinars per $100, the same rate as this morning.
As for the selling prices at exchange offices in Baghdad's local markets, they remained stable, with the selling price reaching 140,250 dinars for $100, while the buying price reached 138,250 dinars for $100.
In Erbil, the dollar also remained stable, with the selling price reaching 138,975 dinars per $100 and the buying price reaching 138,950 dinars per $100. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=58015
An Economic Expert Told NINA: Terminating The Iraq-Turkey Oil Pipeline Contract Poses Major Economic Challenges To Iraq.
Monday, July 28, 2025, 15:40 | Economic Number of reads: 242 Baghdad / NINA / Economic expert Raad Twaij considered the termination of the Iraq-Turkey oil pipeline contract a negative step for the Iraqi side, stressing the need for Iraq to be prepared to develop alternative routes to Turkey, at a lower cost.
Twaij said in a statement to the National Iraqi News Agency ( NINA ): "The suspension of the pipeline transporting Iraqi oil through Turkish territory next year may coincide with new developments or new obligations that may be presented in any new agreement."
He explained that the Turkish strategic perspective is based on the fact that Turkey is a profitable country, and that the comparative advantage in exporting oil is for both Iraq and Turkey.
Therefore, Turkey is trying to obtain the maximum benefit from this pipeline by imposing higher tariffs for the arrival of oil to the Turkish port of Ceyhan, thus turning a historical page on this pipeline, which was marred by some obstacles in Kirkuk's production or the use of the pipeline by other parties, which Turkey considers an "unfavorable tariff."
The economic expert stressed that the Iraqi negotiator must prepare early for this issue and attempt to obtain a favorable transportation cost from the other side, which proposed increasing the fee per barrel to $2.50.
He also stressed the need to work on transporting as much as possible through the pipeline to reduce the cost of transporting each barrel, and to use an accompanying pipeline to transport gas from northern Iraq and export it to Europe via Turkey.
He also emphasized the need to take advantage of the new Turkish proposal to benefit from Turkish investment and propose a partnership in the field of petrochemicals and hydrocarbon production, linking it to the development path within the framework of a comprehensive agreement.
Ankara announced last week the termination of the oil pipeline agreements with Iraq, effective July 2026.
The decision, issued by presidential decree and published in the Turkish Official Gazette, could mark the beginning of a new phase in the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline, which for years has served as a vital artery for Iraqi oil exports to the Mediterranean.
This announcement raises major questions about its political and economic repercussions and poses serious challenges to Iraq in its search for strategic alternatives.
The Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline is one of Iraq's main oil export routes, transporting crude oil from oil fields in northern Iraq, particularly in the Kurdistan Region and Kirkuk, to the Turkish port of Ceyhan on the Mediterranean.
The original agreement between Iraq and Turkey was signed on August 27, 1973, and the pipeline became operational in 1977. Its goal was to enable Iraq to export its oil to global markets via the Mediterranean, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1243380
Iraqi Oil Maintains Gains At The Start Of Weekly Trading.
energy Economy News – Baghdad Iraqi oil prices remained remarkably stable during the opening of trading on Monday on the global market, exceeding $70 per barrel at the start of trading.
According to the data, Basra Medium crude reached $70.48 per barrel, while heavy crude reached $67.43 per barrel, with both prices changing by +0.57%.
The data also showed a decline in global oil prices, with British Brent crude reaching $68.85 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude reached $65.51 per barrel, both down +0.41%. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=57986
For current and reliable Iraqi news please visit: https://www.bondladyscorner.com
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Tuesday Morning 7-29-25
Good Morning Dinar Recaps,
Ripple, Circle, Fidelity Among 6 Crypto Giants Racing for US Bank Charter
Institutional momentum accelerates as crypto firms pursue national regulatory alignment under a newly permissive OCC framework.
Federal Greenlight Incoming: 6 Crypto Banks Await OCC Approval
A major shift in federal crypto regulation is underway as six digital asset firms have applied for national bank charters with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC)—a move that would allow them to operate across the U.S. under a single regulatory umbrella.
Good Morning Dinar Recaps,
Ripple, Circle, Fidelity Among 6 Crypto Giants Racing for US Bank Charter
Institutional momentum accelerates as crypto firms pursue national regulatory alignment under a newly permissive OCC framework.
Federal Greenlight Incoming: 6 Crypto Banks Await OCC Approval
A major shift in federal crypto regulation is underway as six digital asset firms have applied for national bank charters with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC)—a move that would allow them to operate across the U.S. under a single regulatory umbrella.
The pending license applications, publicly listed on the OCC’s site, mark a sharp rise in institutional interest in offering crypto services within the framework of federally chartered banking. The submissions reflect growing industry alignment with national financial infrastructure as digital assets seek full-scale integration into the U.S. financial system.
The Applicants: Crypto and TradFi Heavyweights
The firms seeking a national charter include some of the most prominent names in digital assets and traditional finance:
Bitgo Bank & Trust, National Association – Application submitted July 14
Ripple National Trust Bank – Filed July 2
First National Digital Currency Bank, N.A. – Filed June 30 by Circle Internet Group
Erebor Bank, N.A. – Filed June 12
Fidelity Digital Assets, N.A. – Filed June 11
National Digital Trust Co. – Filed May 28
These proposed banks are structured as national trust banks, a charter that enables them to custody digital assets, issue stablecoins, and interact with public blockchains—all within a regulated environment that permits operations in all 50 states.
OCC Signals Regulatory Shift: Interpretive Letter 1183
The regulatory landscape dramatically changed in March 2025 with the OCC’s release of Interpretive Letter 1183, which eliminated the requirement for “supervisory non-objection” for national banks engaging in digital asset activities such as:
Custodying crypto assets
Managing stablecoin reserves
Running blockchain nodes
This reversal of earlier guidance now formally permits federally chartered institutions to offer crypto-related services without prior case-by-case approval.
In an official statement issued in May, the OCC declared:
“The federal banking system is well positioned to engage in digital asset activities.”
A Turn Away from Caution: OCC Withdraws from Fed/FDIC Crypto Warnings
In another critical development, the OCC has withdrawn its endorsement of prior joint statements with the Federal Reserve and FDIC, which had urged caution on crypto risks and discouraged use of public blockchains.
By stepping back from these earlier risk bulletins, the OCC is positioning itself to encourage responsible innovation, reduce regulatory friction, and standardize oversight across the federal banking system.
Implications: A Unified Path for Crypto Banking
If approved, these charters would allow Ripple, Circle, Fidelity, and others to operate nationally regulated crypto banks, providing services once siloed by state-by-state licensing frameworks.
This convergence of crypto and traditional banking signals a new era of legitimacy, where federally licensed crypto institutions may soon stand alongside legacy banks, backed by OCC oversight, and free to scale nationwide.
@ Newshounds News™
Source: Bitcoin.com
~~~~~~~~~
Rakbank and Bitpanda Launch UAE’s First Bank-Backed Crypto Trading Platform for Retail Customers
Strategic partnership signals UAE's accelerating push into regulated digital finance, bridging banking and blockchain through mobile-accessible crypto services.
Historic Milestone: Rakbank Becomes First Traditional UAE Bank to Offer Crypto Trading
The National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah (Rakbank) has officially become the first conventional bank in the United Arab Emirates to launch crypto trading for retail clients, in partnership with Bitpanda, a regulated Austrian digital asset infrastructure provider.
Through its mobile banking app, Rakbank now enables customers to buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrencies directly from their dirham-denominated current or savings accounts, eliminating the need for foreign exchange conversions or transfers to external crypto platforms.
This development marks a significant advancement in the UAE’s drive to become a global hub for digital finance, offering fully regulated, bank-backed crypto access for everyday investors.
How It Works: Seamless, AED-Denominated Crypto Brokerage
The crypto service is powered by Bitpanda Broker MENA DMCC, a Dubai-based entity licensed by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Bitpanda’s infrastructure enables:
Real-time crypto trading in AED (United Arab Emirates dirham)
No foreign exchange or remittance fees
Custody and execution under regulatory compliance
Mobile app integration for direct access from Rakbank accounts
By leveraging Bitpanda’s secure backend, Rakbank has removed the complexity traditionally associated with accessing crypto markets, offering a streamlined and compliant digital asset experience.
“We are proud to be the first conventional bank in the UAE to enable simple, secure, and regulated access to a world-class digital assets platform,” — Raheel Ahmed, Group CEO, Rakbank
Strategic Vision: UAE as a Blockchain and Crypto Hub
The new offering is currently available by invitation only, with a phased public rollout planned in the coming months.
Rakbank’s initiative follows its 2023 partnership with Bitpanda to co-develop a broader digital asset management platform, underscoring the bank’s belief that digital assets represent the future of finance.
“This partnership is a big moment for digital assets in the region,” — Lukas Enzersdorfer-Konrad, Deputy CEO, Bitpanda
Bitpanda, already working with Deutsche Bank, Raiffeisen Bank, and N26 in Europe, brings global institutional experience to the UAE’s crypto ecosystem.
Regulatory Tailwinds: UAE's Pro-Crypto Posture Strengthens
Rakbank’s crypto launch coincides with broader moves by UAE authorities to establish the region as a blockchain innovation leader:
Over 600 crypto companies have registered in the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre free zone.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and One Central are attracting global digital finance players.
In June, the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) approved Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin, reinforcing confidence in the jurisdiction's regulatory framework.
Conclusion: A Bank-Led Bridge Between Traditional Finance and Digital Assets
With this move, Rakbank sets a precedent for mainstream crypto adoption via conventional banking, offering UAE residents secure, regulated, and user-friendly access to digital assets—all in local currency and through existing banking relationships.
The Rakbank–Bitpanda collaboration is more than a feature update; it represents a transformative step toward the institutionalization of crypto in the Middle East—where banking and blockchain are no longer siloed, but seamlessly integrated.
@ Newshounds News™
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