Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Tuesday AM 2-25-25

Outside The Debt Circuit
 
Economic 2025/02/24  Bashir Khazal  For many years, external debt formed a great burden on the treasury of the Iraqi state, to pay the debts of countries, banks and global organizations, due to the absurd wars that have rolled over the country since the eighties The state's revenues are mortgaged in a large part to pay that debt.
 
However, the rotation towards an effective and successful economic policy in the recent period led to the enforcement of Iraq from the largest part of it, and it has become out of the danger of banks and creditors abroad.

A step in the right direction is calculated for the current government in its program for developing the Iraqi economy.
 
For the first time, the Iraqi state gets rid of the burden of external debt that it has set economically after the war from the year 1980 to the present time.
 
Currently, the remainder of debts to international parties constitute only less than 9 billion A dollar is from now to the year 2028, and
 
the ratio of this debt compared to GDP does not constitute a burden on the state,
 
It constitutes what is 5 percent of GDP, and the
 
global standard allows 60 percent of GDP to be external debts.
 
At this stage, Iraq has become a well-fortified country in the place of external debt.
 
More precisely that it has become outside the dangers of external debt, which gives the country high credit in the field of global credit rating,
 
with an integrated coordination between the Central Bank of Iraq and the Ministry of Finance in paying debt dues, whether debt services are "benefits and installments" or pay the debts once",
 
It is also calculated to perform these economic institutions that were able to take good steps despite the presence of corruption cases from here and there, the
 
government is still working to fight it. By all means, exercising successful policies by public finances in the subject of debt, through the
 
     financial strengthening of external debt extinguishing, and
     borrowing in a lower rate,
 
which led to positive results that reflected its reality on the entire Iraqi economy, and by 2028 the external debts will remain due.
 

Steps in the right direction in the government's economic policy that supports its foreign policy, and
 
Iraq has the opportunity to turn into the most important global economic country,
especially since foreign investments put its eye that Iraq is a country of diverse resources and raw materials necessary for a large strategic industries that enter a large part of it in the field of energy production.
 
Despite the difficult crisis and conditions that the region and the regional environment in particular, we see that
 
Iraq also succeeded to distance itself as a country away from the conflicts and wars that can deplete its wealth, capabilities and human and natural resources, as
 
the successful policy is that the decision is correct and effective in crises and returns to it. Multiple-sided benefits in the present and future.    https://alsabaah.iq/110621-.html   

Cooperation Between Iraq And The ITIC Center To Promote Tax Reform
 
Economic 2025/02/24   Baghdad: Hussein Thaghab  In a move that is a qualitative shift towards promoting tax reform, an Iraqi local institution signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the International Center for Taxes and Investment (ITIC) in Washington, with the aim of supporting efforts to reform the tax system in Iraq.
 
This agreement, signed by the "Asset" organization, came at a time when the data showed the increase in tax revenues during the year 2024 to more than 3.5 trillion dinars, which reflects a remarkable improvement in managing this vital sector.
 
The Chairman of the tax reform committee, Counselor Dr. Abdul Hussein Al-Anbaki,
 
the agreement as an "important step towards reforming the tax system in Iraq", stressing that
 
cooperation with ITIC represents a qualitative shift in the reform process.  Al-Anbaki told Al-Sabah:
 
“The International Center provided a team of full -time experts specializing in tax reform to
 
     study the current reality of taxes in Iraq, and work to
     reform the pillars of this sector.” He added:
 
“Our goal is to build a fair and transparent tax system,
 
     dependent on best practices International, and
     contributes to strengthening the investment environment and
     supporting the national economy." 

He continued:  "We pay great attention to the private sector, as we seek to attract investments by providing an ideal environment.
 
Our supreme goal is to raise the contribution of the private sector to GDP in greater proportions."
 
For his part, Khaled Al Jabri, head of the "Assets" organization and member of the Higher Committee for Tax Reform in Iraq, described
 
this partnership as "an important and strategic step towards strengthening international cooperation in the field of tax and investment reforms in Iraq."  Al-Jabri told Al -Sabah:
 
 “This cooperation contributes to achieving a more transparent and sustainable economic environment, and enhances non-oil revenues by improving the business environment, especially for foreign companies operating in Iraq or that wish to enter the Iraqi market.”  He added:
 
"This cooperation works to provide the Iraqi government with the expertise necessary to
 
     achieve growth in all areas of the economy, and to  enhance non-oil national imports at the expense of oil imports."

Al-Jabri pointed to the growth of tax revenues in Iraq, as the year 2024 witnessed the investigation of tax revenues of 3.755 trillion dinars, stressing that
 
the work continues to address the main problems that hindered the performance of the tax system for a long time. He revealed that the coming days will witness the treatment of three main problems that have burdened the taxpayers, the
 
 first of which is the problem of similarity of names, which are being addressed through an advanced digital system that prevents procedural errors.
 
     Inquiry about the taxpayers will also become completely digital, which facilitates the knowledge of the tax situation without the need to review the body. In addition,
 
     inquiries about companies will become an electronic available for government departments, which enhances transparency, encourages investment and speeds up procedures."  He pointed out that the
 
role of the Supreme Committee for Tax Reform in achieving growth is clear, as the Supreme Committee for Tax Reform contributed directly to improving revenues,
 
by organizing the tax administration within the General Tax Authority, which      
 
  helped reduce corruption and
  celerate the completion of transactions, and
  issue motivational decisions such as exempting the taxpayers Of fines and benefits, which encouraged them to pay the dues.      https://alsabaah.iq/110620-.html 

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Tuesday Morning 2-25-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

BIG NEWS: SEC PLANS TO CUT 10 REGIONAL OFFICE LEADERS AS PART OF DOGE-DRIVEN COST-CUTTING PLAN

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) plans to remove the top leaders at its 10 regional offices as part of a broader cost-cutting initiative. As reported by Reuters, according to sources familiar with the matter, the SEC informed directors across these offices on Friday that their positions will be eliminated as part of a plan set to be submitted next month.

This move is part of a larger push for cost reductions under the Trump administration, which has been focused on purging federal agencies and cutting expenses. The SEC, which oversees the U.S. capital markets, is responding to pressure from President Donald Trump to reduce staff and expenses.

SEC leaders have been asked to suggest major budget cuts. As part of cost-cutting, a new department DOGE, led by Elon Musk is involved, and Musk has demanded federal employees list their recent accomplishments or risk being fired.

The decision to eliminate the regional directors, which requires approval from the three-person SEC commission, comes as the agency has already started scaling back its crypto enforcement efforts.

The SEC has offices from San Francisco to Miami, where officials lead investigations into public companies, brokers, and investment advisers. These directors play a crucial role in enforcement and examination decisions, making their removal a significant change within the agency.

 The reorganization plan will be submitted by SEC leaders, including Acting Chairman Mark Uyeda, and is expected to focus on restructuring operations to improve efficiency.

Reacting to the same, former SEC lawyer Marc Fagel said, “It’s almost like the head of DOGE, previously charged with securities fraud and currently the defendant in an ongoing SEC enforcement action, isn’t entirely free of conflicts in dismantling the SEC’s effectiveness.”

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Coinpedia

~~~~~~~~~

OHIO INTRODUCES BILL PREVENTING STATE TAXES ON CRYPTO PAYMENTS

The legislation also requires state pension funds to evaluate investing in crypto exchange-traded funds, and covers the right to self-custody and crypto mining.

Lawmakers in the US state of Ohio have introduced a bill that prohibits the state legislature from imposing taxes on digital assets when used as a payment method.

Ohio House Bill 116, introduced on Feb. 24 by Representative Steve Demetriou and co-sponsored by Tex Fischer, Brian Lorenz, Ty D. Mathews, Riordan McClain and Josh Williams, aims to amend existing legislation preventing municipalities from imposing extra taxes or fees on crypto assets beyond those applied to traditional fiat transactions.

“The general assembly shall not enact a bill that proposes to impose a fee, tax, assessment, or other charge on digital assets used as a method of payment for goods and services,” it reads.

The bill defines “digital assets” as cryptocurrencies, stablecoins and non-fungible tokens.  

The bill clarifies that taxes usually applied to legal tender, such as state or sales taxes, would still apply to crypto transactions, but there should be no new levies.

The “Ohio Blockchain Basics Act” also stated that no state agency or political subdivision may prohibit individuals from accepting crypto assets as payment for goods and services.

Right to self-custody, crypto mining

The bill also lets its residents retain the right to self-custody their digital assets using hardware or self-hosted wallets and partake in crypto staking.

Additionally, activities such as mining, staking, and exchanging crypto assets for other crypto assets do not require “money transmission” licensing under existing Ohio laws.

Individuals are also permitted to engage in crypto mining in residential areas if they comply with local zoning regulations. Meanwhile, mining businesses are explicitly allowed in industrial zones and cannot be unfairly targeted by local zoning changes.

Under the proposed legislation change, Ohio state retirement funds will also be required to evaluate the potential risks and benefits of investing in a crypto exchange-traded fund and report back to the General Assembly within a year.

Ohio representatives have been proactive with crypto-related bills in recent months. In September, Ohio Senator Niraj Antani introduced a bill requiring the state to accept cryptocurrency for payment of state taxes and fees.

In December, Ohio House Republican leader Derek Merrin introduced HB 703, aiming to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve for the state.

Meanwhile, Ohio Senator Sandra O’Brien introduced another bill in February to create an “Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Fund,” with a five-year hodling period.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CoinTelegraph

~~~~~~~~~

SOUTH DAKOTA FOLLOWS MONTANA'S LEAD, THROWS WATER ON BITCOIN RESERVE PLANS

While South Dakota lawmakers rejected the bill citing volatility concerns, Rep Logan Manhart plans to push for its revival next year.

South Dakota lawmakers dealt another blow to Bitcoin advocates on Monday when they voted to axe a bill that would have allowed the state to invest in Bitcoin.

In a key move, the House Commerce and Energy Committee voted 9-3 to defer HB1202 until the 41st day of the session, a procedural decision that effectively killed the bill, as the session concludes in no more than 40 days.

South Dakota’s decision follows a similar outcome in Montana, where lawmakers shot down a Bitcoin reserve bill in a 41-59 vote last week.

The proposal, introduced by State Representative Logan Manhart (R-S.D.), sought to permit the state to allocate up to 10% of its public funds into Bitcoin investments as a way to diversify its financial portfolio.

"It’s a commonsense update to South Dakota’s investment strategy by allowing a limited allocation of state funds into alternative assets that have consistently proven to preserve value, particularly in inflationary environments," Manhart said, as cited in the South Dakota Public Broadcasting report.

Matt Clark, South Dakota’s State Investment Officer, raised concerns about Bitcoin’s volatility and lack of intrinsic value.

@ Newshounds News™

Source: Decrypt 

~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's Podcast Link

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

Q & A Classroom Link  

Follow the Roadmap

Follow the Timeline 

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Subscribe to Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Newsletter

Thank you Dinar Recaps

“Tidbits From TNT” Tuesday Morning 2-25-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  As the world's largest buyer of gold, Iraq ranks seventh

The World Gold Council announced today, Tuesday, that “Iraq ranked first among Arab countries in purchasing gold.”

He said in a statement, "The volume of Iraq's gold purchases in 2024 amounted to about 20.1 tons, and thus these reserves amount to 152 tons, while Iraq's gold purchases in 2023 were about 12.3 tons."

The council added, "Qatar came in second, followed by the UAE in third, Azerbaijan in fourth, China in fifth, and the Czech Republic in sixth."  link

Tishwash:  Urgent | Oil Minister: We look forward to resuming exports from Ceyhan within two days

Oil Minister Hayan Abdul Ghani confirmed today, Monday, the readiness of the export pipeline to the port of Ceyhan, while there are discussions with the Turkish side to resume exports within the next two days.

Abdul Ghani said in a press statement followed by “Iraq Observer”, “The ministry continues to export oil through the southern outlet in Basra port and Basra oil port.”

He added, "The ministry is now in discussions and correspondence with the Turkish side to resume exports," indicating that "once the Turkish side's approval arrives, exports will resume."

Abdul Ghani expressed his hope that “exports will resume within the next two days,” stressing that “the oil export pipeline to the Ceyhan oil port is ready, and there are some technical matters that need to be reorganized to resume exports.”

He stressed that "the agreed quantity for export through the Kurdistan Region, according to the budget law, ranges between 300 and 325 thousand barrels per day, part of which is used for local consumption, while the rest is exported."  link

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

Tishwash:  After a "difficult labor", the 2025 budget tables finally find their way to the Council of Ministers

A responsible source in the Iraqi Ministry of Finance stated on Monday that the delay in sending the federal budget tables to the Council of Ministers is related to amendments to Article 12 of the Budget Law.

The Iraqi parliament recently approved an amendment to the general budget related to Article 12, which settles a dispute between the Kurdistan Region and the federal government over receiving the region’s oil.

In summary, the Iraqi Parliament voted in June 2023 on the draft general budget law for the fiscal years (2023, 2024, 2025), to approve special budget tables for those years, which will be sent by the Iraqi government to Parliament for voting.

The government source told Shafaq News Agency, "The Ministry of Finance has been working for some time on preparing the general budget tables for the year 2025, in order to send them to the Council of Ministers for approval."

He pointed out that "the Ministry of Finance will finish preparing the tables and send them to the Council of Ministers for voting on them in the middle of next month," noting that "the Council of Ministers will vote on the tables without delay and then send them to the House of Representatives for voting on them."

The Federal Ministry of Oil announced yesterday, Sunday, the completion of the necessary procedures to complete the export of oil produced in the Kurdistan Region via the Turkish port of Ceyhan, stressing that this step comes in accordance with the mechanisms specified in the budget law and its amendment, and within the production ceiling set for Iraq in the OPEC organization.

The Kurdistan Regional Government's negotiating delegation responded to the Ministry of Oil's announcement by calling on the federal government to implement its obligations before proceeding with the oil export process.

The delegation explained that despite the regional government’s confirmation of its commitment to implementing the first amendment law to the federal general budget law, which relates to re-exporting oil produced from the region’s fields to the Turkish port of Ceyhan via SOMO, implementing the law requires agreement on several basic points, including determining the quantities allocated for local consumption in the region, in line with actual needs, similar to the rest of Iraq, and establishing a clear and specific mechanism for paying the dues of production and transportation companies to the regional government, in accordance with what is stated in the law. link

Mot: .. What an Interesting idea!!!! 

Mot: . Ya Knows - When I'm Bored 

MilitiaMan & Crew-Iraq Dinar News-Global Transformation-Census Distribution Fairly-Financial Balance-Oil Flow

MilitiaMan & Crew-Iraq Dinar News-Global Transformation-Census Distribution Fairly-Financial Balance-Oil Flow

2-24-2025

The Crew:  Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man

Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbdNq5fU0dU

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Monday Evening 2-24-25

Gold Retreats From Highs

Arabic and international   Economy News - Follow-up  Gold prices retreated on Monday from an all-time high hit during trading, supported by concerns about US President Donald Trump's plans to impose new tariffs, while investors' focus turned to a key report on inflation in the United States, due later in the week.  Spot gold fell 0.09% to $2,937.30 an ounce, while futures fell 0.03% to $2,951.90.

The precious metal hit an all-time high of $2,954.69 on Thursday.

Tariff concerns

Trump said last week he would announce new tariffs within the next month or so, adding lumber to his previous plans to impose duties on autos, semiconductors and pharmaceuticals.

This comes on the heels of additional tariffs, including a 10% tax on Chinese imports and a 25% duty on steel and aluminum.

Investors are closely watching the path of interest rates in the United States, where Trump’s policies are seen as inflationary. Rising inflation could prompt the US Federal Reserve to keep interest rates high, reducing the appeal of gold as a non-yielding asset.

Markets are looking ahead to the Federal Reserve's preferred measure of inflation, the personal consumption expenditures index, due out on Friday, to determine the future direction of US monetary policy.    https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=52964

Stability Of Oil Prices In Global Markets

Economy | 05:05 - 02/24/2025   Mawazine News – Economy  Oil prices stabilized during the session, Monday, the beginning of trading in the week, as investors awaited any clarifications regarding the talks to end the war between Russia and Ukraine.

Brent crude futures rose 0.5 percent to $74.56 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude also rose by 0.014 percent to $70.51 a barrel.

Brent and US West Texas fell by more than $2 a barrel on Friday, with the former recording a weekly decline of 0.4 percent and the latter 0.5 percent.

All eyes remain on the talks to end the Russia-Ukraine war, which is entering its fourth year.

Sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union on Russian oil exports have limited its shipments and disrupted the flow of oil supplies transported by sea, and global energy supplies are expected to increase in the event of a peace agreement and the lifting of sanctions. https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=259822

Find Out The Dollar Prices In The Iraqi Markets At Closing

Economy | 05:54 - 02/24/2025   Mawazine News – Economy   The dollar prices against the Iraqi dinar witnessed a decline today, Monday, in the markets of the capital, Baghdad, and in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region, coinciding with the closing of the stock exchange.

The dollar prices decreased with the closing of the Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya stock exchanges to record 149,000 dinars for every 100 dollars, while the prices recorded this morning were 149,350 dinars for every 100 dollars.

As for the selling prices in exchange shops in the local markets in Baghdad, they stabilized, as the selling price reached 150,000 dinars for every 100 dollars, while the purchase price reached 148,000 dinars for every 100 dollars.

As for Erbil, the dollar also recorded a decline, as the selling price reached 149,050 dinars for every 100 dollars, and the purchase price was 148,950 dinars for every 100 dollars. https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=259824

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

5 Bad Financial Habits Americans Don’t Realize Cost Them Thousands

5 Bad Financial Habits Americans Don’t Realize Cost Them Thousands

Emily Fowler  Mon, February 24, 2025 GOBankingRates

More Americans are focusing on their finances in 2025 than they have in the past 10 years, according to a recent study from Allianz Life. But while many plan to improve their financial stability, stress levels around finances are still high, with only 16% of people saying they’re less stressed than last year.

Here are five financial habits that could be contributing to those stress levels and costing thousands.

 Excessive Spending on Nonessentials

An occasional treat isn’t the problem. It’s the frequent, mindless purchases that add up. The study found 30% of Americans admit to spending too much on things they don’t need. Anything from online impulse buys to yet another unused subscription can snowball.

Take that coffee habit. Say you buy a $4.75 coffee every week day. That will cost over $1,000 a year. With coffee prices increasing after having just reached an all-time high, according to Business Insider, that habit could cost even more in 2025!

Neglecting Savings

A significant 28% of Americans save nothing, while 27% save less than they could, per Allianz. Without a habit of consistent saving, even a minor financial setback can lead to debt. And with 49% worrying about their income and retirement income, a lack of savings can be added stress.

Automating transfers to a savings account ensures money is set aside before it’s spent, and even starting with small, regular deposits builds up over time.

Carrying Credit Card Debt Too Long

High-interest debt is a financial sinkhole, yet 23% of Americans aren’t paying down debt fast enough, according to the study. Interest charges quickly inflate balances, making it harder to get ahead. The average credit card interest rate as of Feb. 17 was 28.7%, according to the Forbes Advisor weekly credit card rates report.

Making monthly payments of $200 on a credit card balance of $7,500 with a 28% interest rate (APR) would take nearly eight years to clear and mean more than $10,000 in interest paid.

TO READ MORE:  https://finance.yahoo.com/news/5-bad-financial-habits-americans-170051610.html

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Evening 2-24-25

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

BRICS: US DOLLAR FALLS FOR 3RD STRAIGHT WEEK FROM TRUMP TARIFFS

With a trade war brewing with the BRICS alliance, the US dollar has fallen for the 3rd straight week amid the ongoing Trump tariffs. Indeed, the country is beginning to see the effects of the ongoing import taxes as the currency struggled to end the week yet again.

All eyes are on how the global economy will react to the increased global tensions. Friday saw US President Donald Trump restate his threat towards the economic alliance. This time, he warned of 150% tariffs, as he further claimed that the bloc “broke up” amid the warning.

US Dollar Takes a Hit as Trump Tariff Hurts More Than Just BRICS

There have been growing concerns over US President Donald Trump’s economic policy. The aggressive nature of the plans has many worrying that it will only fast-track further de-dollarization. 

Indeed, what drove the nation to move away from the greenback, to begin with, was the weaponization of the global reserve asset. However, the current administration is seeking to do far worse than sanctions could.

Yet, it appears as though the continued threat of import taxes has begun to hinder the currency itself. Indeed, amid the BRICS opposition, the US dollar fell for the 3rd straight week amid the ongoing Trump tariffs, according to a Reuters report.

The fading value of the greenback has had an adverse reaction to the fast start of Trump’s second campaign. Specifically, his return to the Oval Office and the US dollar’s performance under his watch “has been mostly bluster on tariffs,” the report notes.

This is not a new phenomenon either. The greenback had been “struggling for traction in the past few weeks.” Moreover, in February alone, it has dropped more than 1.8%. Currently, the global reserve asset, is headed for its largest monthly drop since September.

The driving factor looks to be the ongoing tariff threat warnings. Although they have yet to be actualized, they are certainly taking their toll. With the US economy stagnating over geopolitical tensions, there is little interest for investors to increase dollar holdings, driving the fall.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Watcher Guru

~~~~~~~~~

THE ‘BITCOIN’ SENATOR TO CHAIR FIRST DIGITAL ASSET HEARING WEDNESDAY

It has been a long journey for Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) as she champions Bitcoin and digital assets in Congress. Earning respect and acceptance both in the bitcoin community and the legislative arena takes time, but after four years, Lummis will finally assume the role of Chair of the newly established Digital Asset Subcommittee under the Senate Banking Committee.

This presents a historic opportunity as Congress moves toward passing comprehensive legislation on stablecoins and market structure, potentially within the next year.

However, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Lummis’ longtime co-sponsor on crypto legislation, does not serve on the Senate Banking Committee. Therefore, Lummis must garner support from Senate Democrats on the committee to advance bipartisan initiatives. 

Gillibrand, along with Lummis, has already co-sponsored Senator Bill Hagerty’s (R-TN) GENIUS Act, signaling her commitment to bridging political divides in the evolving regulatory landscape that would start with stablecoin legislation.

Witness Endorsement of an X Article “That Colossal Wreck”

Among the scheduled witnesses for the upcoming hearing is Jai Massari, Co-Founder and Chief Legal Officer of Lightspark. This past Friday, February 21, Massari endorsed an article on X calling for significant reform within the SEC that included calling out Democrats who previously led the SEC’s crypto regulation by enforcement efforts under the Biden Administration.

Austin Campbell, an Adjunct Professor at the NYU Stern School of Business, former and recently appointed as the CEO of WSPN, who has been a frequent witness in Congress and thought leader on crypto policy, with a tradfi background from Chase, Stone Ridge and JP Morgan Chase, has been a vocal critic of the SEC’s regulatory approach under the Biden Administration.

In his article mentioned above with respect to Massari’s endorsement, "That Colossal Wreck," Campbell revealed that a senior Democratic Party official had urged him to temper his rhetoric toward former SEC Chair Gary Gensler and others who were previously at the SEC. 

According to Campbell, he refused and then was inspired to lay out his vision of what he felt should happen to those who participated in the SEC over the last four years based on the damage caused by their policies.

"They should not be allowed to return to the government, allowed anywhere near the levers of power, and anyone in the Democratic party supporting, aiding, abetting, or directing them should be ejected immediately and roundly derided for this absolutely shameful chapter in US financial regulatory history," said Campbell.

Massari emphatically tweeted on X regarding Campbell’s article:

"This. All of this. Every word. @CampbellJAustin 🔥✅🏆 We must do better. Face the no good, very bad story and work to fix it. Caring about good government and institutions means taking a hard and clear-eyed look, particularly when it is not politically convenient."

While it is not yet known what Massari will testify on specifically as written testimony is not yet public, this message seems to underscore the need for cooperation and bipartisanship to forge meaningful and long-lasting crypto legislation in the U.S., regardless of the politics involved. 

Between what appears to be a softer tone on crypto in the Senate Banking Committee from Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and the drive by Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC) and the Republicans to pass stablecoin and possibly market structure legislation within the first 100 days of the Trump Administration, Massari and her other witnesses may spur on Congress toward historical, landmark laws for crypto in the U.S. that have been years in the making.

It is going to be a challenge for Lummis to make sure this new subcommittee can be effective. Her colleague across the aisle will be Ranking Member Ruben Gallego (D-AZ). 

Senator Gallego did vote last year when he was a Congressman for FIT21 in the House, as well as for the repeal of SAB 121, which according to industry ratings means he strongly supports crypto.

Details on the Witnesses and Hearing Information

Besides Massari, Mr. Jonathan Jachym, Deputy General Counsel and Global Head Of Policy & Government Relations for Kraken Digital Asset Exchange, will be testifying. Jachym just testified in the House. The third and final witness posted at this point is Mr. Lewis Cohen, Partner, Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP. 

Cohen is one of the leading “crypto native” lawyers in the United States and advises clients on complex legal and regulatory matters related to blockchain, cryptocurrency, and tokenization across global capital markets. a witness.

The hearing can be viewed via livestream starting on Wednesday, February 26 at 2:30pm ET and will take place in Dirksen Senate Office Building 538.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Forbes

~~~~~~~~~

ROBINHOOD SAYS SEC DROPPED CRYPTO INVESTIGATION, IN LATEST WITHDRAWAL

Today Robinhood announced that Robinhood Crypto was notified by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that the SEC would not be taking enforcement action. This follows the SEC issuing a Wells Notice last year warning of impending legal action relating to crypto custody, cryptocurrency listings and platform operations.

Under acting SEC Chair Mark Uyeda, several crypto related cases have been dropped or paused. It recently dropped the investigation into NFT platform OpenSea and on Friday Coinbase said its SEC court case would end, subject to Commissioner approval. Earlier this month the SEC paused its case against Binance.

Plus it withdrew its appeal in its attempt to expand the definition of brokers to include liquidity providers.

Back to Robinhood, “We applaud the staff’s decision to close this investigation with no action,” said Dan Gallagher, Chief Legal, Compliance and Corporate Affairs Officer, Robinhood Markets, Inc.

 “Let me be crystal clear—this investigation never should have been opened. Robinhood Crypto always has and will always respect federal securities laws and never allowed transactions in securities.” Mr Gallagher is himself a former SEC Commissioner.

The announcement highlighted that Robinhood Crypto had been careful in its approach, only listing 18 cryptocurrencies after thorough due diligence, as opposed to the hundreds listed by other platforms.

@ Newshounds News™

Source: Ledger Insights

~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's Podcast Link

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

Q & A Classroom Link  

Follow the Roadmap

Follow the Timeline 

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Subscribe to Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Newsletter

Thank you Dinar Recaps

FRANK26….2-24-25……IT’S AN RI Parts 1 and 2

KTFA

Monday Night Conference Call

FRANK26….2-24-25……IT’S AN RI

This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only

Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.  

Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests

Playback Number: 605-313-5163   PIN: 156996#

What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE… ORANGE=IMPLEMENTATION

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPQ3q4TUQ50

FRANK26….2-24-25….IT’S AN RI PART 2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0hv_l4JVwk

US Government Won’t Say if Fort Knox Gold is Missing

US Government Won’t Say if Fort Knox Gold is Missing

Mark Moss:  2-24-2025

For generations, Fort Knox has been synonymous with American financial security. We’ve been told it houses roughly $250 billion worth of gold bullion, a bedrock of stability for the U.S. dollar. But what if that foundation is built on shaky ground? What if the gold everyone believes is there… isn’t?

This isn’t some far-fetched conspiracy theory being whispered in the dark corners of the internet. The unsettling truth is that no independent audit of Fort Knox’s gold reserves has been conducted in over half a century. 

Think about that for a moment. Fifty years without a comprehensive, transparent accounting of assets supposedly underpinning our entire financial system.

The U.S. government consistently refuses independent audits, fueling speculation and distrust. They could easily silence the doubters, quell the rumors, and reassure the public by simply opening the vault and allowing a thorough examination. Yet, they refuse.

The last time outsiders were granted access was arguably more of a carefully orchestrated PR event than a genuine inspection. Politicians posed for photo opportunities with gold bars, but there was no rigorous inventory. No weighing of the bars. No verification of serial numbers. Just a fleeting glimpse designed to project an image of security, without actually providing any concrete proof.

So, the burning question remains: Why won’t the government definitively prove the gold is there? And what happens if it’s not? The implications could be catastrophic, potentially triggering a financial crisis of unprecedented scale.

But even if the gold is actually there, it raises another, equally important question: is it the quantity and quality we’ve been led to believe?

The official explanations often revolve around security concerns and the cost of undertaking such a massive audit. However, these justifications ring hollow. Modern technology allows for sophisticated non-invasive testing and accounting methods that minimize security risks. As for the cost, wouldn’t guaranteeing the stability of the U.S. financial system warrant the expense?

History teaches us a vital lesson: when governments shroud their actions in secrecy, the people ultimately bear the consequences. The mystery of Fort Knox demands answers.

Until those answers are provided, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to safeguard your financial future. The time to prepare is now, before the truth – whatever it may be – is finally revealed.

Watch the video below from Mark Moss for further insights and information.

https://youtu.be/6NhJAsYEIys

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Monday Afternoon 2-24-25

Financial Advisor Confirms: The Government Has Developed An Economic Approach To Enhance Growth And Reduce Unemployment

Local | 04:25 - 02/24/2025   Mawazine News – Baghdad  The financial advisor to the Prime Minister, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, confirmed today, Monday, that the government has developed an economic approach to enhance growth and reduce unemployment, noting that the new industrial cities will be the cornerstone of the economic renaissance.

Salih said, in a statement to the official agency, that "the Sudanese government has developed a clear economic approach to enhance the national economy, represented by raising growth rates in the non-oil gross domestic product by no less than 5%, in addition to gradually reducing unemployment rates to stabilize at 4% in the future."

He explained that "achieving these two goals requires focusing on economic development priorities, most notably supporting the manufacturing industry, which can absorb 60% of unemployment, and contribute to diversifying sources of national income and increasing the gross domestic product rapidly."

He noted that "the government is working to achieve this through three main tracks, including supporting youth lending initiatives, which included many youth gatherings to stimulate the workforce, and establishing "Riyada Bank" as a private bank with broad government support to grant loans to small and medium-sized industrial activity,

 in addition to forming a sovereign guarantees committee to finance large industries through bank loans guaranteed by the state, in cooperation with major industrial countries such as Western Europe and Japan."

He stressed that "these efforts will focus on developing five main industrial fields, including infrastructure industries linked to the "development path" and reconstruction projects, pharmaceutical industries, in addition to petrochemical industries and petroleum derivatives, and advanced engineering industries, in addition to developing the oil sector and manufacturing natural and associated gas, with the aim of zeroing its burning and benefiting from it in the electricity sector."

He added that "the new industrial cities on the development path will be the cornerstone of the comprehensive industrial development strategy in Iraq," noting that "the industrial renaissance is based on a strategic vision based on a partnership between the state and the private sector, within the philosophy of building a social market."  https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=259820

The Ministerial Council For Economy Stresses The Need To Continue The Experiment Of Using Electronic Payment Mechanisms In Transactions In The Public And Private Sectors

Monday 24 February 2025 19:55 | Economic Number of readings: 16  Baghdad / NINA / The Ministerial Council for the Economy stressed the need to continue the experiment of using electronic payment mechanisms in transactions in the public and private sectors.

The Council stated in a statement that "Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein chaired the sixth session of the Ministerial Council for the Economy, which was held in the Council building, in the presence of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning, the Ministers of Finance, Trade, Agriculture, Industry, Labor and Social Affairs, the Secretary-General of the Council of Ministers, the Governor of the Central Bank, the Chairman of the Securities Commission, the Deputy Chairman of the National Investment Commission, and the Prime Minister's advisors for economic and legal affairs."

The statement explained that "the Council hosted the Projects Officer at the Grand Faw Port and the Director of the Submerged Tunnel Project to discuss the progress of engineering work in the project, and provide facilities for the import of some engineering materials that enhance the properties of reinforced concrete used in concrete piece structures, and exempt them from import licenses."

The statement indicated that "the Council decided to take the opinion of the Ministry of Environment regarding some chemicals used in civil engineering works and their impact on the environment.

It continued that the Council hosted the Director General of Information Technology and Payments at the Central Bank of Iraq to evaluate the experience of using electronic payment mechanisms in transactions in the public and private sectors,"

 stressing "the need to continue this important experience and expand it to include all financial transactions and payments for all economic activities, in light of the Cabinet's decision in this regard."

The statement explained that "the Council also reviewed the strategy for the informal economy in Iraq (the shadow economy), submitted by the Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Council, as the study included several axes that addressed the concept, structure and characteristics of the shadow economy, the reasons for its existence, its indicators, and its economic effects,

in addition to proposals to address the shadow economy and integrate it into the formal economy, and the challenges associated with those proposals." The Council decided to recommend to "the Cabinet to adopt this strategy due to its importance."

The statement indicated that "the Minister of Agriculture provided a brief explanation of the environmental and health situation of livestock in Iraq, and reviewed the epidemiological situation of foot-and-mouth disease in the affected areas,"

indicating that "the epidemic has receded significantly in the areas of Al-Fadhiliyah and Al-Nahrawan, and that agricultural health teams are continuing the detection, examination and treatment operations, while providing the necessary vaccines and treatments to control this disease," stressing that "there are no human infections resulting from the use of meat or animal products.

" The Council supported "the Ministry of Agriculture's measures in this regard," reassuring "the Iraqi street that this disease is not transmitted to humans." /End
https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1188565

Promising Investment Projects In Iraq.. Annual Revenues Exceeding $150 Billion

Economy | 07:23 - 02/24/2025    Mawazine News – Economy  The National Investment Commission revealed, on Monday, new projects that generate revenues exceeding $150 billion annually, while indicating that it has attracted foreign capital estimated at $63 billion.

The official spokesperson for the National Investment Commission, Hanan Jassim, said in a statement to the official agency: "The National Investment Commission has been able, over the past year and a half, to attract foreign capital estimated at $63 billion, whether through direct investment or by granting investment licenses,

in addition to local investments amounting to $27 billion," noting that "this number has not been achieved in the economic arena in Iraq for nearly 20 years, nor has it been achieved in the Commission since its establishment until 2022."

She added, "This represents a roadmap for the projects that will be implemented during the year 2025 and the coming years, and it also serves the investment objectives of attracting foreign capital, as the Authority is currently working on a number of investment files that are hoped to be implemented during the year 2025, which represent important axes for the Authority's plans, most notably:

1. The waste treatment and electricity generation unit project, for which the investment license was granted to the Chinese Shanghai Company with a daily capacity of 3,000 tons of solid waste and securing 100 megawatts of electricity, and it is hoped to start completing the second phase of it in the Abu Ghraib area soon.

2. Completion of the economic feasibility study for the electronic development road project, the optical cable and the first data center of its kind, which in its first phase could support the state budget by an estimated $12 billion annually in partnership with investors who bear the largest cost in parallel with building a new oil export system and opening a new sea outlet to export Iraqi oil across the Mediterranean Sea and to both Syria and Lebanon,

where the approvals of previous governments were obtained for the two projects, as the expected revenue from the new Iraqi oil pipeline system is estimated at $25 billion annually, all of them Obtaining approvals and discussions with neighboring countries, it is a geopolitical project par excellence for Iraq, and the global trade in optical cables is around 10 trillion dollars.

3. It is hoped to complete the feasibility study for investing in silica sand in Iraq with high purity of 98% and used in the semiconductor industry, and it is possible to support the general budget with large amounts of up to 100 billion dollars annually, as the global trade in semiconductors including pure silica sand is around 202 billion dollars distributed among six countries (America, Russia, China, Japan, North Korea, Taiwan).

4. Within the Authority's plan, the feasibility study for the first wind energy project in Iraq with a capacity of 500 megawatts is completed.

5. We are heading towards some patents that can be completed inside Iraq and are capable of transforming desert lands into green lands, which contributes to food and environmental security efforts.   https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=259830

Oil Confirms Its Commitment To The OPEC+ Agreement And Compensating For The Surplus In Production

Energy  Economy News – Baghdad  The Ministry of Oil confirmed, on Monday, its full commitment to the OPEC+ agreement and the additional agreed-upon cuts, in addition to compensating for accumulated quantities.

The ministry indicated, in a statement received by "Al-Eqtisad News", that it will take all necessary measures to ensure the implementation of these agreements, including submitting an updated plan to compensate for the surplus production during the previous period.

The statement explained that this came in a joint phone call between Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs Hayan Abdulghani Abdul Zahra, Saudi Minister of Energy Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexander Novak, in addition to OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais.

According to data from OPEC-approved secondary sources, Iraq's crude oil production in January 2025 amounted to 3.999 million barrels per day, a positive indicator that reflects Iraq's commitment to the specified production levels.

The ministry stressed that it will continue its efforts to compensate for the accumulated surplus, taking into account the recent developments related to the federal government receiving oil produced in the Kurdistan Region and resuming exports through the Iraqi-Turkish pipeline, while adhering to Iraq's share stipulated in OPEC agreements for voluntary reduction and the required compensation quantities.

In conclusion, the Ministry of Oil stressed the pivotal role of these agreements in achieving stability in global oil markets, noting the importance of the contribution of OPEC+ member states in supporting this stability.   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=52951

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Afternoon 2-24-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

GRAYSCALE'S XRP ETF UNDER SEC REVIEW—THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS

The SEC’s review of Grayscale’s XRP ETF is officially underway, sparking speculation that a crypto-friendly shift could lead to a groundbreaking approval.

SEC Begins Review of Grayscale’s XRP ETF Proposal

The Federal Register officially published Grayscale’s XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) proposal on Feb. 20, 2025, marking the beginning of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) review process. Fox Business journalist Eleanor Terrett highlighted the significance of this step on social media platform X, stating:

Grayscale’s XRP ETF (19b-4 filing) has officially been posted to the Federal Register. All this means is that the clock starts now for the SEC to engage and either approve or deny on or before October 18.

The SEC follows a structured timeline when reviewing ETF proposals under the 19b-4 process. Initially, the agency has 45 days from publication to make a decision or extend the review.

 If an extension is granted, the SEC can push the deadline to 90 days. The commission can further extend the timeline, with additional review periods of 45 and 60 days, bringing the latest possible deadline to Oct. 18, 2025.

During this time, the SEC will solicit public comments, analyze market impact, and assess compliance with regulatory requirements. Approval could come at any stage, but historically, the SEC has taken the full timeline before issuing a final decision.

The filing, submitted by NYSE Arca, seeks to list and trade shares of the Grayscale XRP Trust under Rule 8.201-E, which governs commodity-based trust shares.

The securities regulator has already approved spot bitcoin ETFs and spot ether ETFs, paving the way for broader cryptocurrency investment products.

The departure of former SEC Chair Gary Gensler has further altered the agency’s stance, with his successor taking a more crypto-friendly approach. Under the new leadership, the SEC has paused or dropped multiple lawsuits against crypto firms, fueling speculation that Ripple’s ongoing legal battle could be the next case to be dismissed.

This change in regulatory climate has increased optimism that the XRP ETF may have a smoother path to approval compared to earlier crypto ETF applications.

With the publication in the Federal Register, the SEC will now open a public comment period before making a final decision on the Grayscale XRP ETF.

If approved, the fund would allow investors to trade the XRP ETF shares on a regulated exchange, potentially increasing market liquidity and accessibility for XRP. The crypto community is closely watching, as the SEC’s ruling could influence future cryptocurrency ETFs and broader digital asset adoption.

@ Newshounds News™

]Source:  Bitcoin News

~~~~~~~~~

BRICS: US & RUSSIA TO ANNOUNCE “MAJOR ECONOMIC” PARTNERSHIP

Despite the growing tensions between both the BRICS economic alliance and the US, the Western power and Russia are reportedly nearing a “major economic” deal, according to US President Donald Trump. Indeed, Trump took to Truth Social to discuss ongoing negotiations with both Moscow and Ukraine to end the war amid its three-year anniversary.

In the post, Trump recalled a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that took place Monday.

 He noted that, amid hopes between the three of ending the war, he was nearing a signed “Critical Minerals and Rare Earth’s Deal” with Ukraine. Therefore, the President claims he is nearing a deal with both nations to end the ongoing military conflict.

US and Russia Nearing Economic Partnership as Trump Talks Negotiations to End Ukraine War

Since his November 2024 election win, Donald Trump has not been shy about his opposition to the BRICS bloc. Indeed, he has spoken about the imposition of 150% tariffs on the alliance as he seeks to protect the status of the US dollar globally. Yet, the United States commander-in-chief is reportedly nearing a massive deal with one of its most prominent nations.

Despite the growing BRICS tensions, the US and Russia are nearing a “major economic” partnership, according to US President Trump. In a post to Truth Social, he explained ongoing negotiations with both Moscow and Ukraine in his effort to end the war that he claimed would have never started if I was President.”

“I am in serious discussion with President Vladimir Putin of Russia concerning the ending of the war,” Trump said. Moreover, he also noted there will be “major Economic development transactions which will take place between the United States and Russia. Talks are proceeding very well,” he added.

The talks have been a byproduct of growing relations between the two countries. Just last week, Putin called for Russia to partner with Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Indeed, the world’s richest man has headed Trump’s DOGE commission and was key in his bid for reelection.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Watcher Guru

~~~~~~~~~

US GOLD INFLUX: SWISS EXPORTS SURGE TO UNPRECEDENTED LEVELS

In January, Swiss gold exports to the U.S. reached a record high of 193 metric tons, driven by fears of potential tariffs. This surge, exceeding the total for 2024, was triggered by a premium on Comex gold futures, creating a profitable opportunity for traders to deliver gold to U.S. warehouses.

Due to differing bar sizes between London and New York, gold is typically refined in Switzerland before being shipped to the U.S. This influx contributed to a significant increase in gold held in Comex depositories and a near doubling of Switzerland’s total gold exports.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  Bitcoin News

~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's Podcast Link

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

Q & A Classroom Link  

Follow the Roadmap

Follow the Timeline 

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Subscribe to Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Newsletter

Thank you Dinar Recaps