“Tidbits From TNT” Friday Morning 4-4-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Iraq Signs Contract for New Economic City

The National Investment Commission (NIC) has signed the Task Order for Phase One of developing the Al-Tayeb Specialised Economic Service Zone in Maysan Province, positioning it as Iraq's first integrated economic city.

Key Developments:

NIC Chairman Dr. Haider Mohammed Makiyah stated that Al-Tayeb Economic City will attract global investors across agriculture, industry, tourism, housing, and entertainment sectors, serving as a model for future multi-service economic cities in other provinces.

The contract, signed with U.S. firm KBR, includes strategic economic studies, investment opportunity packaging, and sectoral planning for the area.

The project aims to:

Establish a major economic hub linked to the Development Road project.

Boost Iraq's economy and provide local employment in Maysan.

Strengthen interagency coordination for smooth project execution.

The meeting was attended by the Governor of Maysan, members of Executive Order Committee 24771, the Maysan Investment Commission, and representatives from the Prime Minister's Office. Discussions focused on ensuring timely implementation, promoting sustainable development, and creating attractive investment opportunities in Iraq.  link

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Tishwash:  Estimated at $6 billion, the US aims to reduce its trade surplus with Iraq through customs duties.

The United States has imposed tariffs on Iraqi exports as part of an economic policy aimed at narrowing the trade gap between the two countries. This move is part of US President Donald Trump's strategy, which has targeted several countries that have a trade surplus with the United States.

According to economic researcher Ziad Al-Hashemi, "Iraq currently enjoys a trade surplus estimated at approximately $6 billion, most of which stems from oil exports to refineries in Texas and California, which Washington is seeking to reduce by imposing customs duties on Iraqi exports."

Al-Hashemi explained in a blog post followed by the Iraq Observer that the US administration aims to achieve several goals through these tariffs, most notably:

• Reducing Iraq's trade surplus by making its exports to the United States less competitive.
• Encouraging Iraq to increase its imports of American products, which could strengthen trade relations between the two countries for the benefit of American companies.
• Influencing Iraqi economic policy by pushing Baghdad to open its economy more broadly to American investments and companies.

Al-Hashemi emphasized that "Iraq has alternative options if these tariffs continue to be imposed, most notably redirecting its oil exports to other markets, which could negatively impact American companies that rely on Iraqi oil, in addition to the possibility of higher fuel prices in the United States."

He pointed out that "the door to negotiations between Baghdad and Washington remains open, as the Iraqi government seeks solutions to minimize the impact of these tariffs on its economy, emphasizing that Iraq possesses powerful leverage, most notably the importance of its oil in meeting some of the needs of the American market."

The Iraqi economic community is awaiting developments in this crisis, amid fears that US pressure will force Iraq to make economic concessions or increase its reliance on alternative markets to avoid potential losses.  link

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Tishwash:  An economist reveals the second part of the impact of Trump's tariffs on Iraq.

Economic expert Nabil Al-Marsoumi revealed, on Friday (April 4, 2025), the second part of the negative impacts of US President Donald Trump's customs tariffs, which are likely to affect Iraq.

Al-Marsoumi confirmed in a Facebook post, followed by Baghdad Today, that "in addition to the negative impact of Trump's tariffs on oil prices and revenues, there is a fear that American banks will impose fees on Iraqi transfers to other countries when paying for imports, by converting dollars into the currencies of those countries."

Al-Marsoumi added, "There are also fees imposed on returns on investing dollar reserves in the US when they are converted into other foreign currencies, since oil revenues are deposited in the US pursuant to international and US decisions."

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump announced that he would sign an executive order today (Wednesday) to impose reciprocal tariffs.

Trump said in a press statement: "We will begin implementing reciprocal tariffs starting tomorrow, Thursday, and we will impose on all countries the same rates of tariffs that they impose on us."

"Foreign cheats looted our factories, foreign thieves tore apart our beautiful American dream, and today is one of the most important days in American history because it marks our declaration of economic independence," he added.

Trump continued, "We imposed a 2.5% tariff on foreign cars, and the European Union imposes a 10% tariff on us. Starting at midnight tonight, we will impose a 25% tariff on all foreign cars."

"We will impose customs duties of up to 2.8% on many goods, while other countries impose duties of 200 to 400%," he explained.

The US President stated, "These tariff measures will enable us to make America great again, more than ever before," noting that "jobs and factories will return to the United States, and prices will fall for consumers."

He accused what he described as "foreign cheats of looting US factories and foreign thieves of tearing up the beautiful American dream," as he described it.

Trump said, "Today is one of the most important days in American history because it marks our declaration of economic independence."

He announced the imposition of "customs duties of 26% on imports from India, 34% on imports from China, 32% on imports from Taiwan, 30% on imports from South Africa, 10% on imports from Britain, 32% on imports from Indonesia, 10% on imports from Brazil, 49% on imports from Cambodia, 24% on imports from Japan, and 10% on imports from Singapore."  link

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Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Thursday Evening 4-3-25

Al-Mashhadani And The US Chargé d'Affaires Affirm The Importance Of Strengthening And Developing Bilateral Relations

Thursday, April 3, 2025| Politics Number of readings: 110  Baghdad / NINA / Speaker of Parliament Dr. Mahmoud Al-Mashhadani and the Chargé d'Affaires of the United States Ambassador to Iraq Daniel Rubinstein stressed the importance of strengthening and developing bilateral relations.

A statement by Al-Mashhadani's media office said that the Speaker of Parliament received today the Chargé d'Affaires of the United States Ambassador to Iraq Daniel Rubinstein, who extended his congratulations to the Speaker of Parliament on the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr, wishing well for Muslims and Iraq on this occasion.

According to the statement, the meeting dealt with emphasizing ways to strengthen and develop bilateral relations between the two countries in the political and economic files and developing investment to serve the interests of the two countries.

The meeting also discussed the security situation and the importance of stability in Iraq, and its reflection on the upcoming parliamentary elections, which the political blocs are preparing to participate in. /End   https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1195487

The Yellow Metal Soars And Renews Its All-Time High

Money and Business   Economy News - Follow-up   The price of gold futures for June 2025 delivery on the Comex (a division of the New York Mercantile Exchange) hit an all-time high on April 2, 2025.

Data available from the trading platform indicates that the price of an ounce of gold has risen above $3,200.

By 23:29 Moscow time on April 2, the price of gold had risen 1.12% to $3,201.6 per ounce. By 07:00 Moscow time on April 3, the price of gold had slowed to $3,171.5 per ounce (up 0.02%).

Gold prices, a precious metal long considered a safe haven during times of economic and geopolitical instability, continue their steady upward trend, reaching new highs in the markets.

Meanwhile, the price of Brent crude futures for June 2025 delivery on the London ICE Futures Exchange fell 0.12% to $73.28 per barrel. The price of West Texas Intermediate crude futures for May 2025 delivery fell 0.06% to $70.03 per barrel.   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=54048

World Gold Council: 29% of central banks plan to purchase gold by 2025
 
Economy     gold     buying     countries  2025-04-01 00:20  Shafaq News/ The World Gold Council confirmed on Tuesday that 29% of countries' central banks intend to purchase the precious metal in 2025. The council said in a report seen by Shafaq News Agency that
 
"29% of countries' central banks intend to purchase gold during the current year," noting that
 
"the purchases are due to the 
 
     desire to restore balance to a more strategic level in these reserves, 

     financial market concerns,
 
as well as the
 
     increased risks of crises and
 
     rising inflation." He added that
 
"gold continues to attract the attention of central banks as a reserve asset," noting that
 
"increasingly complex geopolitical and financial factors make managing gold reserves more important than ever."

He pointed out that  "central banks added

     1,037 tons of gold in 2023, the second-highest annual purchases in history, after setting a record of

     1,082 tons in 2022."
 
Iraq has gold reserves of 162.7 tons,
 
ranking 28th among countries with the highest reserves of the precious metal.  
  
https://shafaq.com/ar/اقتصـاد/المجلس-العالمي-29-من-البنوك-المركزية-للدول-تعتزم-شرا-الذهب-العام-2025 

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

China: I See Your Trade War And Raise You A Cyberwar

China: I See Your Trade War And Raise You A Cyberwar

Notes From the Field By  James Hickman (Simon Black) April 2, 2025

It was sometime in the spring of 323 BC when Alexander the Great-- the “King of the World”-- passed through the gates of ancient Babylon for the last time.

He had already conquered the city nearly a decade before. But his men were worn out from fighting in India and Persia, and Babylon was a secure place to give his army a much-needed rest.

They remained there for a few months, until, quite suddenly, Alexander became extremely ill on either the 10th or 11th of June and then died.

 The cause of his death is unknown. Some say he was poisoned. Others blame malaria, typhoid fever, or complications from his battle wounds.

 What is certain, however, is that he left behind no legitimate male heir, as his wife was still pregnant at the time of his death. So almost immediately a power struggle broke out as to who would succeed him.

 Macedonian tradition at the time dictated that whoever buried Alexander’s body would be the rightful claimant to his empire.

 Well, Alexander’s dying wish was to be buried at an oasis in North Africa-- more than 1,000 miles away. So you can just imagine the nearly year-long cat-and-mouse game where all of these generals and nobles vying for the throne continually tried to steal Alexander’s corpse from one another.

There were assassinations, sabotage, secret missions, and more, not to mention full-blown warfare among the various factions which ultimately lasted for decades-- ironically far longer than Alexander reigned.

 In the end, Alexander’s empire broke apart. And one of the victors-- a former general and bodyguard, named Ptolemy-- ended up taking over Egypt and established a ruling dynasty that lasted for centuries.

 Their economic system in the ancient Ptolemaic Kingdom was essentially what we would today call “national capitalism”.

 The bureaucracy was massive. Absolutely massive. Onerous regulations controlled commerce and trade. Nothing was produced that wasn’t in the government’s interest. Caravan routes and waterways were owned by the state, and their use was heavily taxed.

There were taxes on salt, stamp duties on legal documents, taxes on inheritance, and a sales tax of 10%. Plus, the tax on income reached as high as 50%.

Then there were the tariffs.

 The Ptolemaic Kingdom possessed some of the finest technology in the world at that time; their fields were the most productive, and their manufactured goods were among the highest quality on the planet. So, their exports were vast and lucrative… and they traded with markets as far away as China.

 Yet even though Ptolemaic Egypt’s productive technology gave them many competitive advantages over other kingdoms, the state decided at a certain point that it needed to ‘protect’ its domestic industries. So, they imposed heavy tariffs.

The results were rather predictable. Without the benefit of low-cost imports, prices rose significantly. Greek olive oil, which cost just 21 drachmas in Athens, sold for 52 drachmas in Egypt. Trade dried up, hurting both the domestic and foreign economies alike.

 Trade disputes soon festered into trade wars, which quickly became actual wars.

 The loss of blood and treasure mounted, while rivals (like Carthage, and eventually Rome) became stronger.

 This is the basic principle behind ‘mercantilism’, i.e. the prevailing zero-sum economic philosophy that dominated the world for thousands of years. It’s based on the idea that, in order for me to win, you have to lose. I become wealthier by taking from you.

Adam Smith finally codified why this way of thinking was stupid when he published An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations in the year 1776. Smith, the father of capitalism, realized that wealth and abundance were infinite, and that trade was not a zero-sum game. Both sides could become better off.

 Yesterday-- supposedly ‘Liberation Day’-- constituted a gigantic step backward from capitalism… back to the zero-sum mentality of mercantilism.

I’ve written before that, yes, America has very legitimate gripes with respect to some of its foreign trading partners.

 But it seems naive that these can be solved with across-the-board tariffs on essentially the entire planet.

 If Apple doesn’t want to sell iPhones in China, they can choose to do that on their own. It seems silly to make hundreds of millions of Americans pay higher prices for imported goods to ‘avenge’ Apple’s lost profitability from Chinese import duties.

 There are so many things wrong with this policy… and very few ways in which it could go right.

 In order for tariffs to be a win, the rest of the world would just need to take it in the teeth. No other nation could impose retaliatory tariffs. Foreign businesses would need to cut their prices, and foreign central banks would need to devalue their currencies.

 US consumers would need to be very forgiving and buy the narrative that the price inflation due to tariffs is “transitory”, and that domestic production will soon bring prices back down.

 Most importantly, US businesses will need to immediately begin building new factories in America and ramp up domestic manufacturing.

But this is far easier said than done. New factories will require a host of state and local permits, and that bureaucracy could bog down industrial construction for years.

 Not to mention that many building materials for all of these new factories will need to be imported. There are exemptions in the tariffs for copper, lumber, and steel, but other imported construction materials will be 10% to 50% more expensive now.

 In short, build all of these factories will take a great deal of time and be lot more expensive. Consumers will be expected to pay the price in the meantime.

 One of the biggest questions, of course, is what happens next.

 History tells us that trade disputes often escalate into larger conflicts. And is anyone naive enough to think that the Chinese will simply bow obsequiously?

Perhaps they’ll use their army of hackers to take down parts of the US power grid and launch a mini cyberwar. Or perhaps they’ll cease exporting critical rare earth metals to the US-- so kiss your iPhone goodbye.

 We also could easily see a number of countries (including in Europe) retaliate by canceling visa-free travel for US citizens… and several countries start pulling their funds out of the United States-- either in retaliation or out of fear.

 This might even lead to the US imposing capital controls in order to stop foreigners from moving their money out.

 Bottom line, it could get very messy, very quickly.

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

https://www.schiffsovereign.com/trends/china-i-see-your-trade-war-and-raise-you-a-cyberwar-152427/?inf_contact_key=8f59fbfeda267ecf87272576cc8252e4611c10abb7b3657801e6f799df81c049

We’re Witnessing the Collapse of a Fake Financial System | Ron Paul

We’re Witnessing the Collapse of a Fake Financial System | Ron Paul

Kitco News:  4-3-2025

NOTE TO OUR VIEWERS: We’re aware that Dr. Ron Paul’s internet connection during this interview was less than ideal. While we made every effort to improve the signal during recording, we believe the message and content of this conversation is too important not to share.

We appreciate your understanding and thank you for watching.

Gold just broke above $3,100 an ounce — its strongest quarter since 1986. Fort Knox audit calls are trending. Inflation continues to hit savers hard.

And Elon Musk’s government downsizing initiative, DOGE, faces sunset amid controversy. In this interview, Dr. Ron Paul, former Congressman, presidential candidate, and founder of the Ron Paul Institute, joins Jeremy Szafron, Anchor at Kitco News to break down what he sees as the collapse of America’s fiat system, the Federal Reserve’s role in “moral bankruptcy,” and why the U.S. dollar may be nearing its breaking point.

Key Topics:

– The gold price surge and what it signals

– Why the Fed is “the head of the hydra”

 – If the U.S. will ever truly audit Fort Knox

– Elon Musk’s DOGE initiative: real reform or political theater?

– The risk of geopolitical flashpoints with Iran and China

 – His warning of liquidation, riots, and systemic reset

– The future of liberty, truth, and sound money

00:00 Introduction

00:58 Gold's Surge and Economic Implications

 05:34 Geopolitical Flashpoints: Iran and China

07:54 Economic Policies and Tariffs

12:07 Doge Experiment and Government Downsizing

 17:19 Transparency and the Federal Reserve

23:42 Conclusion

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fvHlr9oA_E

Keith Weiner: 2025 is the Perfect Storm for Gold

Keith Weiner: 2025 is the Perfect Storm for Gold

Palisades Gold Radio:  4-2-2025

Tom Bodrovics welcomes back Keith Weiner for a discussion on the growing interest in gold as a hedge against economic instability and the risks associated with fiat currencies.

Weiner highlighted that while some investors are drawn to gold due to its rising price momentum, others view it as a long-term insurance against the flaws inherent in government-backed money.

He explained that governments often borrow without a clear plan to repay, leading to an unsustainable debt situation. This has led individuals and countries to seek alternatives like gold, which is seen as a stable store of value unaffected by monetary policy or political whims.

 Weiner also touched on the concept of "zombie credit," where corporations struggle to service their debts, particularly in the face of rising interest rates. The conversation delved into the geopolitical implications of de-dollarization and how countries are increasingly recognizing the limitations of relying solely on the US dollar for trade and reserves.

Despite efforts by governments to create alternative currencies or payment systems, Weiner argued that these initiatives often fail due to a lack of trust and cohesion among nations.

Additionally, Weiner discussed the impact of tariffs on global trade and their effect on debt servicing, noting how such policies can exacerbate financial instability.

He also explored the differences between gold and silver markets, emphasizing that gold is more attractive to institutional investors as it offers a hedge against broader economic risks without the same level of volatility or storage challenges.

Throughout the interview, Weiner emphasized the fundamental drivers behind gold's rise, including the decline in confidence in fiat currencies, the increasing debt levels globally, and the search for safe-haven assets.

He concluded by noting that while gold faces short-term corrections, its long-term bullish trajectory remains intact due to ongoing structural economic issues and the relentless demand from both individual and institutional investors seeking stability amidst uncertainty.

In summary, the interview underscored the role of gold as a critical hedge against an increasingly unstable financial landscape, driven by flawed monetary policies, geopolitical tensions, and the search for safe-haven assets.

Talking Points From This Episode

0:00 - Introduction

0:38 - 2025 Gold Outlook

7:25 - The Dollar Vs. Gold

13:20 - Fiscal Responsibility

 19:46 - Dollar System & Debt

25:58 - Usefulness of Tariffs?

30:25 - Fed & Inflation Fight

35:49 - Rates & Defaults

39:18 - Perfect Storm for Gold?

 40:54 - Gold Vs. Silver Demand

45:00 - Metal Demand & London

51:20 - Gold Spreads & Traders

 53:42 - Gold Bull Outlook

56:14 - Wrap Up

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xT8tKssAZX0

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Thursday Afternoon 4-3-25

 Al-Sudani's Advisor Clarifies: Are Iraqi Oil Exports Covered By Trump's Tariffs?

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad  The Prime Minister's advisor for foreign relations, Farhad Alaa Al-Din, confirmed on Thursday that Iraqi energy exports, including crude oil, are not covered by the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, while noting that the economic impact on Iraq is very limited.

Alaa El-Din said, "In light of the recent announcement by US President Donald Trump regarding the imposition of reciprocal tariffs on a number of countries around the world, we would like to clarify that Iraqi energy exports, including crude oil, are not subject to these tariffs."

He added, "Iraq currently exports between 7 and 8 million barrels of crude oil and its derivatives per month to the United States. These exports constitute the backbone of Iraqi exports and have not been affected by the recent customs measures."

He continued: "As for the rest of Iraqi exports, they are limited in size and scope, which means that the economic impact of these tariffs on Iraq will be extremely limited."

He stressed that "the strategic partnership between Iraq and the United States remains solid and strong, and that these measures will not affect the essence of the economic or diplomatic relationship between the two countries." He noted that "Iraq continues its commitment to deepening cooperation with the United States in various sectors, particularly in the areas of energy, investment, and enhancing regional stability."   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=54050

Iraqi Oil Prices Decline On The Global Market

economy | 09:29 - 03/04/2025  Mawazine News – Baghdad  Basra Medium crude oil reached $74.77 per barrel, while heavy crude oil reached $71.72 per barrel.

Data showed a slight increase in global oil prices, with British Brent crude reaching $73.12 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude oil reached $69.86 per barrel.
https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=260503

Iraqi Oil Prices Decline On The Global Market

economy | 03/04/2025  Mawazine News – Baghdad  Basra Medium crude oil reached $74.77 per barrel, while heavy crude oil reached $71.72 per barrel.

Data showed a slight increase in global oil prices, with British Brent crude reaching $73.12 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude oil reached $69.86 per barrel.
https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=260503

Iraq Preempts OPEC By Reducing Its Oil Production

Time: 04/02/2025 Read: 2,205 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) reduced its crude oil production last month, by reducing production from Iraq and Nigeria, just before the group began implementing long-delayed plans to restore previously suspended oil supplies.

Bloomberg reported that OPEC cut its production by 110,000 barrels per day, bringing it to 27.43 million barrels per day. OPEC leaders urged member states to adhere to the specified production quotas, a requirement some countries have not yet complied with.

Starting this month, the OPEC+ alliance, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, intends to begin gradually increasing production after a significant portion of it had been halted for several years, as part of the alliance's efforts to support oil prices.

The change came after US President Donald Trump called on OPEC to "bring down the price of oil," and some delegates said the group's leaders had lost patience with countries like Kazakhstan, which repeatedly exceed their production quotas.

A Bloomberg survey showed that Nigeria made the largest production cut among the coalition countries last month, cutting 50,000 barrels per day to an average of 1.5 million barrels per day, in line with its quota. Shipments of Nigerian Bonny Light crude are facing delays due to a fire on the Trans-Niger pipeline.

Iraq came in second place after reducing its production by 40,000 barrels per day to 4.15 million barrels per day, bringing it closer to the agreed-upon ceiling. However, Baghdad still exceeds the four million barrel limit and has made only limited progress on the additional cuts it pledged to compensate for previous overproduction.

The United Arab Emirates increased its production by 30,000 barrels per day, reaching 3.33 million barrels per day, exceeding its agreed-upon ceiling, according to the survey.

Data used by the OPEC Secretariat, compiled from a range of external sources, shows that both Iraq and the UAE are approaching their agreed production levels.

OPEC+ is scheduled to add about 138,000 barrels per day this month, the first in a series of gradual additions that will continue until late 2026. The alliance is expected to decide in the coming days on the next tranche, scheduled for May, and several delegates said they expect to proceed with it.

The Bloomberg survey is based on ship-tracking data, information from officials, and estimates from consulting firms Rapidan Energy Group, FGE, and Rystad Energy.  LINK

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

3 ‘Horrible’ Pieces of Tax Advice, According to The Money Guy Show

3 ‘Horrible’ Pieces of Tax Advice, According to The Money Guy Show

Catherine Collins  Tue, April 1, 2025  GOBankingRates

The financial advisors behind the podcast ‘The Money Guy Show‘ recently reviewed popular TikTok tax hacks that are actually terrible money advice. In addition to being financial advisors, hosts Brian Preston and Bo Hansen are also accountants, so listeners can benefit from hearing their advice about what is and isn’t allowed when you file your taxes.

While the hosts aren’t against tax planning, many of the TikTok tax strategies they reviewed are less about planning and more about being misleading or even committing fraud. Many people turn to ‘The Money Guy Show’ for financial lessons that aren’t boring. So, if someone is interested in lowering their tax bill, this is a show to follow.

What’s important to remember is that if people need to get tax advice, they should follow the advice of an accountant. Not everything you see on TikTok is true, but sometimes people get excited about ways they can save money. Unfortunately, not all ways are valid.

Here are a few examples of bad Tik Tok tax advice, according to the pros at ‘The Money Guy Show.’ Also, learn how to avoid bad financial advice on social media.

Lease a Range Rover and Write It Off

The Money Guys reviewed a video where Grant Cardone told viewers they could write off a $150,000 Range Rover “100%” so long as they use it for business.

The IRS does have rules about using a car for business purposes, but how you can only deduct the business portion of how you use it.

The Money Guys explained you have to carefully track your mileage to write off a car as a business expense — you can’t write off any driving for personal use. Preston also pointed out, “‘Deductible’ is not ‘free.’ … You’re still paying 60 cents on the dollar.”

TO READ MORE:  https://finance.yahoo.com/news/3-horrible-pieces-tax-advice-130313620.html    

Ariel : Liberation Day, Iraq Tariffs, Historic Milestone

Ariel : Liberation Day, Iraq Tariffs, Historic Milestone

4-3-2025

April 2nd

Today is the day ladies & Gentlemen.

Liberation Day!

What does this truly mean for humanity?

We are no longer being stripped dry of resources with no reciprocal equal return?

We are no longer paying foreign countries with aide that has no residual impact on our investments?

Today we get to stand firm on a future that is not yet here. A solid foundation that is a launch pad to an entire different way of living.

Does it mean that domestic energy and manufacturing surge as resource extraction prioritizes American soil, cutting reliance on foreign exploitation and ending the one-way drain of wealth?

Does it mean that billions once funneled to overseas regimes with no return $50 billion annually, per 2024 estimates redirect to infrastructure, slashing debt and boosting local economies?

Does it mean that tariffs and renegotiated deals force equal exchange exports like tech and agriculture ($300 billion in 2024) now matched by imports that don’t gut American jobs?

Does it mean that a shift from dollar hegemony begins, with gold-backed or blockchain alternatives curbing inflation consumer prices, up 20% since 2020, stabilize for the first time in decades?

We will not have long to find out.

Announcements?

Let’s see what happens.

Iraq will be getting hit with 39% Tariffs.

You know the saying…pressure bust pipes.

Its only a matter of time.

Gina H: Where did you see that? It’s not on the list he gave during the speech.

Suzie-Q: 

Did you know that Iraq’s Central Bank confirmed a historic milestone. It was reported that their foreign reserves now cover more than 100% of the dinar in circulation. Donald Trump put that fire under their a***s. Looks like they are ready to pull the trigger at any moment

Source(s):
https://x.com/Prolotario1/status/1907406357177012230

https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/04/03/ariel-prolotario1-liberation-day-iraq-tariffs-historic-milestone/

Thursday Coffee with MarkZ. 04/03/2025

Thursday Coffee with MarkZ. 04/03/2025

MarkZ  Update- Some highlights by PDK-Not verbatim

MarkZ Disclaimer: Please consider everything on this call as my opinion. People who take notes do not catch everything and its best to watch the video so that you get everything in context.  Be sure to consult a professional for any financial decisions

Member: Good Morning….. Well, here we are……another Thursday

Member: I’m getting excited! World markets tumbled overnight and ours is down 1200 points already! Good morning everyone!

Member: Possible Market crash on the way……and new financial system???

Member: Dow down -1556

MZ: There is going to be a lot of adjustments going on…especially in global trade. The whole world is changing….just watch it.

Member: MZ, this could be the correction in the market we have been waiting on to RV?

MZ: We are seeing a correction…and not a crash.

Member: This should speed up going to an asset back currency??

MZ: IMO we are watching the reset happening right now- right in front of our eyes.

Member: So other countries have high tariffs on us and we now reciprocate which I see is fair. However, why don’t these other countries just lower the tariffs and USA do the same?

Member: That is the plan.

Member: Mark, big picture is Trump is forcing the world to move into GESARA. Equal playing field, parity on currencies and no backroom deals.

Member: Trump posted  this morning about the 'Operation' is over and the patient is going to heal!!!!!!!!!

MZ: Before they “reset” and get new dollars…you have to change/fix the economy otherwise you are just putting a bandaid on it. They are actually fixing the problem now.

Member: So many ppl don't get how the tariffs work and are upset about it. Most don't want you to "educate" them either, they would rather be upset

Member: Many economists and members of the Trump Administration started talking about currency manipulation and fair trade yesterday…..encouraging

Member: ​​yesterday Trump mentioned currency manipulation out of Vietnam?? And needing them to raise the rates of the VND.

Member: Do you think we will get to the end of this before Easter?

MZ: Based on everything I am seeing…banker movement, bond movement ect…I think bond folks really are in their big week right now. My gut feeling is April is our month.

MZ: last night I told you it appears that they are moving more and more bond transactions out of Reno to other locations……Many are going to Europe to exchange. I thought that was interesting. They appear to be getting all the exchanges out of Reno because of intel leaks.  Just my opinion.

MZ: “Sudanese advisor: Iraq’s oil export are not covered by US tariffs”  Tariffs really won’t affect Iraq negatively. Iraq has been charging the Us about 78% tariffs to bring US dollars in. the US is chaging Iraq half of what they are charging us….but oil is exempted.

Member: Was wondering if the tariff on Iraq would force them to revalue to pay the tariff. If I understand correctly you're saying no??

Member: Are Redemption Centers working today and this weekend??? Word was they were fully manned yesterday and awaiting 800 number release.

MZ: I do not have an update from them yet.

Member: is it still on the table, bonds exchange in fiat and currency gets commodity backed?

Member: I thought  bonds were to be paid in fiat and reset for currency into commodity backed currency

Member: What is a whale?

MZ:  There are currency whales and bond whales….they have spent $100,000 or more buying currency or bonds. These are at “Whale levels” I know people who have spent millions of dollars on this.

Meber: The live stream for Fort Knox could be the public day. I understand that if it's short or empty, that would collapse the economy.

Member: Anyone know what day the Fort Knox Audit is being done? Hope its soon.

Member: I think we see trump announce audit of fort knox in coming days

MZ: It will be all over the news when that happens. We won’t have to hunt for it.

​​Member: Trump has said several times, "Easter is our timeline."

MZ: The easiest time of year to open the St. Germaine trust is Easter and Christmas.

Member: Easter is April 20th….all we can do is hope.

Member: Easter to us Christians is known as Resurrection Day.

Member: Thank you to Mark and our Mods for this wonderful community.

Member: Have a wonderful blessed day everyone…..

Stacie Z joins the stream today. Please listen to the replay for her information.

Mot: PLEASE CONSULT WITH A PROFESSIONAL FOR ANY TYPE OF FINANCIAL & MEDICAL ASSISTANCE.

THE CONTENT IN THIS PODCAST IS FOR GENERAL & EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY&NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE ANY PROFESSIONAL, FINANCIAL OR LEGAL ADVICE. PLEASE CONSIDER EVERYTHING DISCUSSED IN MARKZ’S OPINION ONLY

FOLLOW MARKZ : TWITTER . https://twitter.com/originalmarkz?s=21. TRUTH SOCIAL . https://truthsocial.com/@theoriginalm...

Mod:  MarkZ "Back To Basics" Pre-Recorded Call" for Newbies 10-19-2022 ) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37oILmAlptM

MARKZ DAILY LINKS: https://theoriginalmarkz.com/home/

Note from PDK: Please listen to the replay for all the details and entire stream….I do not transcribe political opinions, medical opinions or many guests on this stream……just RV/currency related topics.

 ZESTER'S LINK TREE: https://linktr.ee/CrazyCryptonaut

THANKS FOR JOINING. HAVE A BLESSED DAY! SEE YOU ALL  TUESDAY THROUGH THURSDAY EVENINGS FOR NEWS @ 7:00 PM EST ~ UNLESS BREAKING NEWS HAPPENS!  FROM NOW ON NO MORE NIGHTLY PODCASTS ON MONDAYS AND FRIDAYS

Youtube:     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6014YCq6WGs

News, Rumors and Opinions Thursday 4-3-2025

Note: All intel should be considered as "Rumors" until we receive official announcements ...and “Rates and Dates” could change anytime until we get to the banks/redemption centers.

RV Excerpts from the Restored Republic via a GCR: Update as of Thurs. 3 April 2025

Compiled Thurs. 3 April 2025 12:01 am EST by Judy Byington

Possible Timing, Global Currency Reset:

On Tues. 25 March 2025 President Trump (Allegedly) activated the new gold/asset- backed Global Quantum Financial System (QFS) powered by XRP.

Tues. 25 March 2025 Mr. Pool: Reports from Reno suggest that the first batches of ZIM holders have been escorted under military guard to classified exchange points. https://t.me/Official_MrPool

On Tues. 25 March at 2am EST Tier 3 and T4a Paymasters were (allegedly) made LIQUID. …Mel on BOOM Call https://youtu.be/VSmR4LfsfYs

Thurs. 27 March 2025 Bruce: Bond Holder Paymasters were saying Bond Holders would have access to their accounts last weekend. As of ten am Thurs. 27 March 12% of Bond Holders had gone through. Multiple sources said Tier4b (Us, The Internet Group) would likely get notification to set appointments very soon. The full revaluation will (allegedly) happen after Tues. 1 April 2025. The month of April will see an increase in Social Security payments. On Thurs. 27 March the 800 number was being loaded into the various systems.

On Mon. 31 March 2025 Nesara Gesara was (allegedly) made official throughout the World. …White House Post on Telegram

On Mon. 31 March 2025 a high level contact reported that Tier4a (SKRs, Groups) started exchanging today Mon. 31 March. They anticipated that Tier4b (Us, the Internet Group) would begin exchanges by around Thurs. 3 April.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Wed. 2 April 2025 Freedom Day: SUMMARY OF PRESIDENT TRUMP’S RECIRPOCAL TARIFF ANNOUNCEMENT: …Capt.Kyle Patriots on Telegram

1. Tariffs imposed on 50+ countries in announcement
2. Tariffs are 50% of rates imposed on US, by country
3. 10% baseline tariff on all countries worldwide
4. 25% auto tariffs on all foreign made vehicles
5. Trump says tariffs will “give the US growth”
6. Trump plans to announce “largest tax cut in US history”
7. Baseline tariffs go into effect April 5th
8. Reciprocal tariffs go into effect April 9th

This is the largest tariff announcement in US history.

Read full post here:  https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/04/03/restored-republic-via-a-gcr-update-as-of-april-3-2025/

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

Courtesy of Dinar Guru:  https://www.dinarguru.com/

Frank26  The first week, the beginning of a new quarter of April cannot be wasted again.  If it is, shame on Iraq.  

Frank26    [Iraq boots-on-the-ground report]  FIREFLY:Sammy says after the COM is finished with the [budget] tables then it will go to parliament but by then it's too late for payment to [mess] around with it...He says when the COM is finished, we could very well see Alaq give us the rate before it even goes to parliament.

Walkingstick  You have to understand the Asraflak is a campaign that is going to come out for the next two months.  Inside this campaign there's also a software...entitled 'spend it'.  This is a program that transfers money at an instant speed of time.  It is done through a digital program that delivers instantly a receipt.  'Spend It' is not at 1310 IMO.  Spend It is an American term.  It is not an Arabic term used in banks...It is also a financial literacy program..

Germany Expresses Concern About Their Gold Held By The Fed

Arcadia Econoics:  4-2-2025

As the reciprocal tariffs are finally set to go into effect, Germany is also expressing concern about the safety of their gold being held by the Fed.

At the same time that even the Trump administration is less than sure about the safety of the US gold. Vince Lanci explains, and shares what to expect with the new tariffs.

 And to find out more, click to watch the video now!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbHUPWw5uxo

Iraq Economic News and Points to Ponder Thursday AM 4-3-25

World Gold Council: 29% Of Central Banks Plan To Purchase Gold By 2025
 
Economy     gold     buying     countries   2025-04-01 00:20  Shafaq News/ The World Gold Council confirmed on Tuesday that 29% of countries' central banks intend to purchase the precious metal in 2025. The council said in a report seen by Shafaq News Agency that
 
"29% of countries' central banks intend to purchase gold during the current year," noting that  
"the purchases are due to the desire to restore balance to a more strategic level in these reserves, 
     financial market concerns, as well as the increased risks of crises and rising inflation."

He added that   
"gold continues to attract the attention of central banks as a reserve asset," noting that
 
"increasingly complex geopolitical and financial factors make managing gold reserves more important than ever." He pointed out that
 
"central banks added

     1,037 tons of gold in 2023, the second-highest annual purchases in history, after setting a record of

     1,082 tons in 2022."
 
Iraq has gold reserves of 162.7 tons,
 
ranking 28th among countries with the highest reserves of the precious metal.  
  
https://shafaq.com/ar/اقتصـاد/المجلس-العالمي-29-من-البنوك-المركزية-للدول-تعتزم-شرا-الذهب-العام-2025    

Gold Prices Rise Ahead Of US-China Tariffs

Wednesday, April 2, 2025 | Economic Number of reads: 189  Baghdad / NINA / Gold prices extended their gains on Wednesday, after hitting a record high in the previous session, as investors sought a safe haven in the yellow metal in anticipation of the potential impact of mutual tariffs between the United States and China.

The price of spot gold rose 0.7% to $3,131.25 per ounce, as of 02:40 GMT.

The price of gold reached an all-time high of $3,148.88 on Tuesday.

US gold futures rose 0.4% to $3,159.90.

Philip Newman, managing director of Metals Focus, said: "The main reason behind these consecutive record highs is safe haven buying, and the geopolitical uncertainty that supports this shows no signs of abating."

Some of the uncertainty that has rocked markets this year is expected to dissipate after President Trump unveils his tariff plan on Wednesday.

Newman said that a slowing US economy, a potential rise in inflation, and lower interest rates could pave the way for gold to reach $3,300 in the coming months.

Markets are in suspense ahead of US tariffs scheduled to be imposed later today, which President Donald Trump has dubbed "Liberation Day."

Trump's tariff policies could exacerbate inflation, slow economic growth, and escalate trade disputes.

Gold is considered a hedge against global instability and inflation and thrives in a low interest rate environment.

Spot silver rose 0.2% to $33.82 an ounce, platinum gained 0.8% to $987.66, and palladium advanced 0.7% to $990.45. /End   https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1195305

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