Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Tuesday Morning 5-13-25
Monetary Policy Raises The Value Of The Dinar And Reduces Reliance On The Parallel Market.
Economic 2025/05/11 Baghdad: Hussein Thaghab The Iraqi dinar has recently recorded strong performance against the dollar, driven by a series of monetary measures adopted by the Central Bank,
which have contributed to reducing demand for hard currency in the parallel market and enhancing the confidence of traders in official channels.
This improvement comes amid ongoing government efforts to consolidate financial stability and
stimulate business activity through effective monetary instruments and transparent and direct financing mechanisms.
Monetary Policy Raises The Value Of The Dinar And Reduces Reliance On The Parallel Market.
Economic 2025/05/11 Baghdad: Hussein Thaghab The Iraqi dinar has recently recorded strong performance against the dollar, driven by a series of monetary measures adopted by the Central Bank,
which have contributed to reducing demand for hard currency in the parallel market and enhancing the confidence of traders in official channels.
This improvement comes amid ongoing government efforts to consolidate financial stability and
stimulate business activity through effective monetary instruments and transparent and direct financing mechanisms.
Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Kuwait, Dr. Ammar Hamad, confirmed to Al-Sabah that
this increase reflects the success of the monetary policy pursued by the bank in reducing reliance on the parallel market and providing safe and transparent sources of financing for foreign trade.
He explained that this policy has enabled the commercial family to obtain dollars through official channels that adhere to international standards, without having to resort to the unregulated market.
Hamad noted that the Central Bank continues to work toward consolidating the local banking system and raising its operational efficiency to levels consistent with international banking standards, making it a fundamental pillar in driving economic development in Iraq.
He added that the bank is adopting advanced mechanisms that enable banks to offer diverse banking products that support various economic sectors and facilitate financing and cash flow operations.
For his part, the Prime Minister's Advisor for Financial Affairs, Dr. Mazhar Mohammed Salih, explained that a number of factors contributed to strengthening the value of the dinar, most notably the weak demand for the dollar in the parallel market, as a result of the Central Bank's policies regarding financing foreign trade for the private sector.
He explained that the bank strengthens Iraqi banks' dollar balances through their correspondents abroad, especially banks with a high credit rating (AAA), which speeds up the execution of international transfers and reduces the need for dollars in the local market.
He also indicated that the move towards using alternative currencies such as the euro, yuan, dirham, and lira in banking transactions has helped reduce excessive reliance on the dollar.
Saleh also noted that enabling small businesses to access financing sources directly through Iraqi banks,
without costly intermediaries, has helped reduce operating costs and improved commercial efficiency,
as this segment represents approximately 60% of private sector trade.
He added that travelers can now easily obtain their foreign currency dues via payment cards at a subsidized exchange rate of 1,320 dinars to the dollar, in addition to the ability to receive dollars in cash at Iraqi airports, which has eased pressure on the parallel market.
In the same context, economic expert Nazir Al-Saadi emphasized that the money transfer services provided by the Central Bank have become safer and more effective,which has prompted business families to move away from the parallel market,
which is characterized by significant risks and high costs.
He explained that relying on official transfers not only ensures the safety of transactions,but also reduces the final cost of imports,which is positively reflected in the prices offered to consumers.
He added that random transfers from the parallel market often caused losses to importers due to failure to implement them or due to price fluctuations, while the Central Bank mechanism provides a stable financial system that preserves the value of the currency and reduces Opportunities for manipulation. https://alsabaah.iq/114242-.html
Arab Countries On The Gray List For Money Laundering... What About Iraq?
Economy 2025-05-12 | 2,734 views Asharq Al-Awsat revealed on Monday that seven Arab countries are on the gray list. The report emphasized that this does not mean they are directly involved in financial corruption, but rather serves as an international warning about the existence of systemic loopholes that could weaken the economy and threaten investor and market confidence.
This places the country under scrutiny, considering it an environment that could be exploited for money laundering or terrorist financing unless it swiftly implements strict legal and institutional reforms.
In the Arab region, several countries have entered this list, some of which have already left, while others remain for reasons ranging from weak legislation, weak banking oversight, and political instability.
This makes the issue more complex and impactful for the region's economies, which are highly dependent on cross-border financial flows.
The grey list refers to countries placed on the Financial Action Task Force's (FATF) "enhanced monitoring list."
The list includes countries with "strategic deficiencies" in their anti-money laundering, counter-terrorism financing, and proliferation regimes, but which have demonstrated a high-level political commitment to work with the FATF to implement a clear reform plan within a specific timeframe.
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an intergovernmental body established in 1989at the initiative of the Group of Seven industrialized nations and headquartered in Paris.
It is concerned with setting standards and promoting the implementation of legal, regulatory, and practical measures to combat money laundering, the financing of terrorism, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction at the national and international levels.
*Arab countries on the list
As of the latest official update issued by the Financial Action Task Force in February 2025, the following countries from the Arab region are included on the “grey list”:
1. Algeria
Algeria was listed in October 2024 following a joint assessment with the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF), due to weak risk oversight, the absence of an effective beneficial ownership framework, and a lack of suspicious transaction reports.
Algeria is implementing an action plan that includes strengthening financial oversight, developing a suspicious transaction reporting system, and updating the legal framework for targeted financial sanctions.
2. Lebanon
Lebanon was added to the list in October 2024 due to the collapse of its banking system and its increasing reliance on cash transactions, which reflects a lack of confidence in the banking system and makes it difficult to track cash flows, in addition to the lack of judicial independence and concerns about terrorist financing.
authorities are seeking The Lebanese to implement a comprehensive reform plan to strengthen the anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing system.
3. Syria
Syria has been on the list since February 2010 due to strategic deficiencies in combating money laundering and terrorist financing. Despite some improvements, Syria continues to cooperate with the Financial Action Task Force to address these deficiencies .
4. Yemen
Yemen was listed in February 2014 due to its inability to implement reforms due to the security situation, despite completing the agreed-upon action plan. However, Yemen continues its efforts to strengthen its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regime.
*Arab countries removed from the list
Three Arab countries have been removed from the "grey list" after implementing comprehensive
reforms to their anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems.
These countries are: the UAE, Morocco, and Jordan.
1. UAE
The UAE was placed on the "grey list" in March 2022 due to "strategic deficiencies" in its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regime, such as poor understanding of risks, limited use of financial information, and challenges in implementing sanctions.
The UAE was removed from the grey list on February 23, 2024, after implementing a series of institutional and legislative reforms, including the establishment of the Executive Office for Combating Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing to enhance national coordination, the establishment of a specialized court for financial crimes, and the updating of criminal laws and the imposition of stricter penalties.
The country also increased the pace of investigations and prosecutions and activated a system for reporting suspicious transactions.
FATF commended this progress, considering it sufficient to remove the UAE from the list.
2. Morocco
Morocco was placed on the “grey list” due to weak risk-based oversight, insufficient accuracy of beneficial ownership information for legal entities, limited diversity of suspicious transaction reports, and limited effectiveness of investigations and prosecutions.
Morocco was removed from the grey list in February 2023 after implementing a series of substantive reforms within the framework of the action plan agreed upon with the Financial Action Task Force.
The measures included strengthening the legal and regulatory framework for combating money laundering and terrorist financing, improving the effectiveness of investigations and prosecutions, updating the suspicious transaction reporting system, and enhancing international cooperation and the exchange of financial information.
3. Jordan
Gaps such as weak risk-based oversight, insufficient beneficial ownership data, inadequate prosecutions, and an ineffective financial sanctions regime have placed Jordan under enhanced FATF scrutiny.
After the country adopted reforms that included improving transparency in beneficial ownership data, strengthening investigations and prosecutions in money laundering cases, tightening oversight of non-profit organizations, and improving its targeted financial sanctions regime, Jordan was removed from the gray list in October 2023.
Listing: Punishment or Regulatory Measure?
Gray listing is not a penalty in the legal sense; rather, it is an international regulatory measure that indicates strategic deficiencies in a country's
anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CFT) systems.
However, despite its regulatory nature, it has quasi-punitive consequences, such as diminished investor confidence, tightened international banking supervision, and increased costs for financial transactions.
Listing obliges a country to implement an action plan within a specified period under FATF supervision and serves as an international warning requiring urgent reforms.
*What about Iraq ?
On August 20, 2024, Iraq's Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Office announced that the country was no longer on the gray list for money laundering, following the establishment of updated, comprehensive, and confidential databases that meet international requirements.
, Hussein Al-Maqram, reported The office's representative at the Central Bank of Iraq the
completion of the international mutual evaluation conducted by a team of international experts on Iraq.
The 14-month evaluation aimed to assess Iraq's technical compliance with the legal framework,
regulations, instructions, and controls for combating money laundering and terrorist financing.
In a statement to the media, Muqrin explained that the international expert team evaluated the effectiveness of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems by providing statistics and practical cases to demonstrate the extent to which the legislative framework is being implemented, in addition to conducting field visits."
He added that "the evaluation report was discussed and approved by the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) last May," noting that
"the initial results confirmed that the Republic of Iraq has moved away from inclusion on the gray list, and an action plan and recommendations were formulated by international evaluators to ensure compliance with international standards."
For current and reliable Iraqi news please visit: https://www.bondladyscorner.com/
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Tuesday Morning 5-13-25
Good Morning Dinar Recaps,
ARIZONA GOVERNOR KILLS TWO CRYPTO BILLS, CRACKS DOWN ON BITCOIN ATMS
Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed two major pro-crypto bills:
Senate Bill 1373, which proposed a Digital Assets Strategic Reserve Fund, and
Senate Bill 1025, the Arizona Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Act that would have allowed up to 10% of state treasury and retirement funds to be invested in Bitcoin.
She also rejected Senate Bill 1024, which would have allowed state agencies to accept crypto payments for taxes and fees.
Good Morning Dinar Recaps,
ARIZONA GOVERNOR KILLS TWO CRYPTO BILLS, CRACKS DOWN ON BITCOIN ATMS
Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed two major pro-crypto bills:
Senate Bill 1373, which proposed a Digital Assets Strategic Reserve Fund, and
Senate Bill 1025, the Arizona Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Act that would have allowed up to 10% of state treasury and retirement funds to be invested in Bitcoin.
She also rejected Senate Bill 1024, which would have allowed state agencies to accept crypto payments for taxes and fees.
Hobbs cited “volatility in cryptocurrency markets” as a core reason for vetoing, stating the proposals posed too much financial risk for public funds.
However, she approved House Bill 2387, which imposes strict consumer protections on Bitcoin ATMs:
Requires multilingual scam warnings and acknowledgment from users before transactions.
Caps daily transactions at $2,000 for new users and $10,500 for returning users after 10 days.
Mandates detailed receipts, visible 24/7 customer support info, and a 30-day refund policy for fraud victims.
Additionally, Hobbs signed House Bill 2749, modernizing unclaimed property laws to let Arizona hold unclaimed crypto in its original form rather than converting to fiat.
@ Newshounds News™
Source: CoinTelegraph
~~~~~~~~~
BRICS: US & CHINA AGREE TO TARIFF PAUSE, BUT WHO’S NEXT?
The US and China have agreed to a 90-day tariff pause, signaling a potential thaw in tensions and offering hope for a broader trade deal.
President Trump called it a “total reset” in relations, easing fears of an imminent trade war between the world’s two largest economies.
China’s role in BRICS remains pivotal, and the agreement has sparked speculation about which BRICS nation may secure relief next.
India has already finalized trade terms with the US, while Brazil still faces a 10% tariff, and South Africa’s has been lowered from 30% to 10%.
Russia was never included in the initial US tariff plan, giving the BRICS alliance some strategic leverage.
The European Union (EU) may be next on the negotiation list, though Trump called the EU “nastier than China” in recent comments.
BRICS' united trade front is believed to be effective, with growing optimism that tariff relief deals for other members are coming soon.
The 2025 BRICS summit could expand the alliance, increasing its global influence during ongoing trade negotiations.
@ Newshounds News™
Source: Watcher Guru
~~~~~~~~~
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“Tidbits From TNT” Tuesday Morning 5-13-2025
TNT:
Tishwash: Al-Sudani inspects the "Heart of the World" hotel in preparation for receiving delegations participating in the Arab Summit.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani reviewed preparations for receiving delegations participating in the Arab Summit on Sunday.
The Prime Minister's media office said in a statement received by the Iraq Observer, "Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani visited the Heart of the World Hotel in the capital, Baghdad, today, Sunday, which is one of the hotels that will host the delegations participating in the Arab Summit in Baghdad."
The statement added, "During a tour of the hotel, which is one of the most prominent modern hotel projects in the capital, Baghdad, Al-Sudani viewed its halls, corridors, and tourist facilities, as well as the distinctive equipment and services it includes that are worthy of Iraq's guests."
TNT:
Tishwash: Al-Sudani inspects the "Heart of the World" hotel in preparation for receiving delegations participating in the Arab Summit.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani reviewed preparations for receiving delegations participating in the Arab Summit on Sunday.
The Prime Minister's media office said in a statement received by the Iraq Observer, "Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani visited the Heart of the World Hotel in the capital, Baghdad, today, Sunday, which is one of the hotels that will host the delegations participating in the Arab Summit in Baghdad."
The statement added, "During a tour of the hotel, which is one of the most prominent modern hotel projects in the capital, Baghdad, Al-Sudani viewed its halls, corridors, and tourist facilities, as well as the distinctive equipment and services it includes that are worthy of Iraq's guests."
He continued, "He also toured the press center dedicated to the Arab Summit to review the preparations for the work of journalists and media personnel at this center, which will constitute an integrated media platform for covering the Arab Summit." link
Tishwash: Economists: The Arab Summit is an opportunity to activate partnerships and investments.
The Arab economic arena is witnessing increasing momentum ahead of the Arab Summit in Baghdad, with economic experts and specialists unanimously agreeing that this event could mark the beginning of a new phase of joint Arab economic action, based on investing in the wealth and potential of Arab countries and redrawing the map of cooperation in light of regional and international changes. This vision comes within the context of a widespread belief that Baghdad now possesses the elements of stability and readiness to host major strategic projects that will benefit all Arab economies.
New prospects for cooperation
Economic expert Haider Karim al-Gharawi told Al-Sabah that holding the summit in Baghdad opens new horizons for cooperation between Iraq and its Arab brethren, given the common elements upon which fruitful economic partnerships can be built.
He explained that the presence of Arab leaders or their representatives in Baghdad and their direct exposure to the Iraqi reality could create new visions and strengthen the conviction that Iraq possesses an attractive work environment capable of accommodating bilateral partnership projects that achieve benefits for all parties. In various sectors.
Al-Gharawi added that the summit represents a rare opportunity to present Iraq's development plans directly to delegations without the need for intermediaries, which will help accelerate agreements and reach practical and effective cooperation formulas.
He considered that the mere fact that the summit is being held in Baghdad sends a reassuring message to the world that Iraq has returned to the path of stability and economic openness. He also spoke about the possibility of creating common economic interests with major international companies that can leverage their expertise to support Arab-style production projects, making the summit a starting point for a formula for Arab industrial and production integration capable of competing in the global market.
The Summit and the Road to Development
For his part, economic expert Dr. Nabil Al-Marsoumi explained that the summit represents an opportunity to enhance economic cooperation between Iraq and Arab countries, particularly neighboring countries. He pointed out that Iraq has active economic relations with its regional surroundings, including the electrical connection with Jordan, which is close to completion, in addition to economic relations with Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, which can be activated through comprehensive economic agreements.
He emphasized that the summit could contribute to reviving agreements related to the "Development Road" project, which is one of the largest strategic projects that serves not only Iraq, but also extends its benefits to other Arab countries, especially the UAE and Qatar, as it provides a potential corridor for Qatari gas to Europe. It is also a gateway to strengthening economic relations, diversifying trade exchange, and pursuing joint projects in the energy, contracting, and housing sectors, areas that usually constitute a key focus of major economic conferences, thus enhancing opportunities for sustainable development and Arab integration.
Iraq in the regional equation
Economic researcher Suhad Al-Shammari considered the holding of the Arab Summit in Baghdad a pivotal event at various levels, noting in her interview with Al-Sabah that the meeting of Arab leaders, kings and presidents in the Iraqi capital reflects the extent of Arab interest in Iraq's role and position in the new regional equation.
She explained that discussing issues that have a direct impact on the region through the Baghdad Summit carries a clear message that Iraq has become secure and has a virgin economy that can accommodate the most important investment projects, which means that countries are now dealing with Iraq from a new economic perspective that charts the compass of political cooperation based on common interest.
Al-Shammari indicated that the summit carries indications of Iraq's return to playing an influential geopolitical role in the region, and opens the horizon for bringing viewpoints closer between Arab countries. It also reflects the qualitative shift that Iraq has witnessed in terms of reconstruction and development, noting that the "Development Road" project represents an important economic gateway and is on its way to completion within the specified timeframe, at a time when Baghdad has regained its luster as a vibrant capital witnessing a major development movement, which enhances Iraq's position as a key player in the economic and And the Arab politician.
The summit and the elements of success
These intersecting visions reflect a firm belief among experts that the Baghdad Summit possesses all the ingredients for economic success, making it a strategic platform for launching comprehensive Arab initiatives based on integration in the fields of energy, transportation, and infrastructure. These initiatives contribute to building an Arab economic system capable of confronting challenges and exploiting available opportunities, within a path of sustainable cooperation that the region has always embraced. Much needed. link
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Tishwash: The Prime Minister appreciates the International Monetary Fund's efforts in supporting Iraq and its financial and monetary institutions.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani praised the efforts of the International Monetary Fund in supporting Iraq and its financial and monetary institutions.
His media office said in a statement, "Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani received today, Monday, the head of the International Monetary Fund mission to Iraq, Jean-Guillaume Poulin, and the Fund's Resident Representative in Iraq, Mohammed Jaber.
Al-Sudani appreciated the efforts of the International Monetary Fund in supporting Iraq and its financial and monetary institutions, which would restore their vital role at the local and international levels, especially since the Fund is a key partner in Iraq's efforts to reform the economy and enhance its stability, stressing that the achievements made by the government in the financial, banking and economic fields represent positive steps towards achieving stability and sustainable development in the country.
Al-Sudani pointed out "the importance of continued support from international partners for the government in intensifying efforts to mitigate the impact of the challenges facing the region, which would facilitate the implementation of steps aimed at diversifying and sustaining the economy, through the investment environment it has provided that has attracted major development projects.
For his part, Polan praised the significant progress made by the Iraqi government in the field of economic reform, through the development of the tax and customs system, expressing the International Monetary Fund's readiness to increase coordination and joint work, and to provide the necessary advice in areas of enhancing non-oil revenues. link
Mot: Come on ""Earl"" -- LOL
MilitiaMan & Crew: Iraqi Dinar News Update-Iran Removing Zeros-Green Light-Economic Reality-Trade-IMF-WB-BIS-UST-Timing
MilitiaMan & Crew: Iraqi Dinar News Update-Iran Removing Zeros-Green Light-Economic Reality-Trade-IMF-WB-BIS-UST-Timing
5-12-2025
The Crew: Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man
Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..
MilitiaMan & Crew: Iraqi Dinar News Update-Iran Removing Zeros-Green Light-Economic Reality-Trade-IMF-WB-BIS-UST-Timing
5-12-2025
The Crew: Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man
Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..
Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Monday Evening 5-12-25
Prime Minister: The International Monetary Fund Is A Key Partner In Strengthening Iraq's Economy And Stabilizing It
Economy | 08:46 - 12/05/2025 Mawazine News - Baghdad - Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani received on Monday the Head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mission to Iraq, Jean-Guillaume Poulin, and the Fund's Resident Representative in Iraq, Mohammed Jaber.
According to a statement from his media office received by Mawazine News, Al-Sudani praised the IMF's efforts in supporting Iraq and its financial and monetary institutions, thus restoring their vital role at the local and international levels, especially since the Fund is a key partner in Iraq's efforts to reform the economy and enhance its stability.
Prime Minister: The International Monetary Fund Is A Key Partner In Strengthening Iraq's Economy And Stabilizing It
Economy | 08:46 - 12/05/2025 Mawazine News - Baghdad - Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani received on Monday the Head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mission to Iraq, Jean-Guillaume Poulin, and the Fund's Resident Representative in Iraq, Mohammed Jaber.
According to a statement from his media office received by Mawazine News, Al-Sudani praised the IMF's efforts in supporting Iraq and its financial and monetary institutions, thus restoring their vital role at the local and international levels, especially since the Fund is a key partner in Iraq's efforts to reform the economy and enhance its stability.
He stressed that the government's achievements in the financial, banking and economic fields represent positive steps towards achieving stability and sustainable development in the country.
He pointed out the importance of continued support from international partners for the government in intensifying efforts to mitigate the impact of the challenges facing the region, thus facilitating the implementation of steps aimed at diversifying and sustaining the economy, through the investment environment it has provided that has attracted major development projects.
For his part, Polan praised the "significant progress made by the Iraqi government in economic reform, through the development of the tax and customs systems."
He expressed the IMF's readiness to increase coordination and joint action, and to provide the necessary advice on enhancing non-oil revenues. https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=261358
Rafidain Bank: The "Riyada" Initiative Is A Development Tool For Transforming The Iraqi Economy.
A wish | 09:25 - 12/05/2025 Mawazine News - Baghdad - Rafidain Bank confirmed on Monday that the Riyada initiative represented a development tool for changing the structure of the Iraqi economy and transformed young people from job seekers to opportunity creators.
While noting that the first phase of the initiative financed more than 8,000 small projects, he noted that the second phase will finance more than 10,000 new projects.
Rafidain Bank Director Ali Karim Al-Fatlawi said in a statement to the official agency, followed by Mawazine News, that "the Riyada initiative launched by the bank represents a qualitative shift in the role of banking institutions," indicating that "it is no longer limited to providing financing, but has become a development tool for changing the structure of the Iraqi economy and empowering youth."
He added, "The initiative is not merely financing small projects, but rather a new economic future written by the youth of Iraq," noting that "the state is no longer the largest employer alone, but has become an enabler and motivator of the private sector, especially graduates and entrepreneurs."
He continued, "The first phase of the initiative resulted in financing more than 8,000 small projects, each of which provided between two and five direct job opportunities, reflecting a real shift in the role of youth from job seekers to opportunity creators.
" He noted that "the bank has allocated sufficient resources for the second phase and is preparing to finance more than 10,000 new projects in cooperation with relevant authorities."
He stated that "Rafidain Bank is today adopting an integrated development role, not just a traditional banking role," explaining that "financing has become a means to build small production units that support the market and break the cycle of unemployment."
He pointed out that "the most prominent challenges facing the implementation of the initiative are the need for institutional integration," calling on the Central Bank and all national institutions to "actively engage in supporting the Riyada initiative by allocating concessionary financing windows, launching a national fund to guarantee loans for entrepreneurs, and integrating the initiative into the upcoming financial inclusion strategy." https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=261361
A Delegation Of 46 Iraqi Businessmen Participates In The US Investment Summit To Enhance Economic Cooperation
The US Embassy in Baghdad announced on Sunday that a delegation of 46 business leaders from across Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region, will travel to the United States to participate in the annual SelectUSA Investment Summit, scheduled to be held in Washington, D.C., from May 11 to 14.
The embassy explained in a statement that the delegation represents a wide range of economic sectors, including technology, cybersecurity, tourism, hospitality, food and beverage, franchises, agriculture, construction, investment, pharmaceuticals, real estate, and oil and gas, reflecting the diversity of cooperation and investment opportunities between the two countries.
The SelectUSA Summit, organized by the US Department of Commerce, is the largest event dedicated to promoting foreign direct investment in the United States, bringing together international investors with representatives of state and local governments, along with government officials, with the goal of facilitating investment entry into the US market.
The embassy explained that this participation is part of a series of important economic visits that have strengthened bilateral relations, noting the visit of a delegation from the US International Development Finance Corporation to Baghdad in May, in addition to the participation of more than 100 businessmen and companies from the American-Iraqi Chamber of Commerce in a business forum held in Baghdad last April.
The embassy emphasized that these efforts aim to support Iraqi businessmen in exploring growth and investment opportunities within the United States and strengthening the economic partnership between the two countries. https://www.radionawa.com/all-detail.aspx?jimare=41825
While Chairing The Economic And Social Council Meeting, Iraq Calls For The Formation Of An Arab Economic Bloc
Monday, May 12, 2025 3:35 PM | Economic Number of reads: 255 Baghdad / NINA / Iraq called, during the meeting of the Economic and Social Council, for the formation of an Arab economic bloc.
Director General of the Department of Foreign Economic Relations at the Ministry of Trade, and member of the presidency of the current session of the Arab Development Summit, Riyadh Fakher Al-Hashemi, said in a speech during the meeting of the Economic and Social Council at the level of senior officials, according to the official agency:
"Our meeting is not just an entitlement, but rather a sincere Arab platform to translate aspirations into action, and to address development challenges through constructive dialogue, genuine cooperation, and common will."
Al-Hashemi added: "Our Arab reality today requires us to take a serious stance and clear positions in order to chart applicable development paths capable of creating job opportunities and achieving social justice. Today, we are called upon to go beyond traditional frameworks and move towards strategic projects that move towards a truly integrated economy, effective social cooperation, and joint investment."
He continued: "The Arab economic bloc is not only important, but it is a historic entitlement, if we invest in the available elements of human and natural resources, as we are working today to formulate an agenda rich in issues, which represents a priority in the Arab development process, and lays the foundation for qualitative outcomes." /https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1226423
The Dollar Rises Again By 144,000 Against The Iraqi Dinar.
Economy | 10:38 - 12/05/2025 Mawazine News – Baghdad Mawazine News publishes today, Monday, the exchange rates of the dollar against the Iraqi dinar in local markets. - Selling 143,750 dinars for $100. Purchase 141,750 dinars for $100. https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=261303
For current and reliable Iraqi news please visit: https://www.bondladyscorner.com/
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Evening 5-12-25
Good afternoon Dinar Recaps,
US HOUSE PASSES CONTROVERSIAL STABLECOIN BILL BACKED BY TRUMP, DIVIDES DEMOCRATS
▪️The House passed the Stablecoin Innovation and Protection Act of 2025 late Thursday.
▪️The bill, supported by President Trump, aims to create a federal framework for stablecoin issuance while preserving state-level oversight.
▪️Democrats remain split over the bill’s impact on consumer protections, foreign issuers, and financial surveillance.
Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,
US HOUSE PASSES CONTROVERSIAL STABLECOIN BILL BACKED BY TRUMP, DIVIDES DEMOCRATS
▪️The House passed the Stablecoin Innovation and Protection Act of 2025 late Thursday.
▪️The bill, supported by President Trump, aims to create a federal framework for stablecoin issuance while preserving state-level oversight.
▪️Democrats remain split over the bill’s impact on consumer protections, foreign issuers, and financial surveillance.
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Stablecoin Innovation and Protection Act of 2025, a landmark piece of crypto legislation backed by President Donald Trump. The legislation, which passed with significant Republican support, proposes a federal framework for stablecoin issuance and sets broad new guidelines for how both private and public entities may issue and manage digital dollar-pegged tokens.
While the bill preserves some roles for state regulators—allowing entities like Wyoming’s digital asset office to license issuers—it also gives the U.S. Treasury, Federal Reserve, and SEC more say in oversight, compliance, and financial stability risks.
President Trump called the passage a "historic win for American financial innovation", noting that the bill will help the United States "compete with foreign stablecoins and preserve dollar dominance."
Still, Democrats remain deeply divided. Some, including Rep. Richie Torres (D-NY), backed the legislation, arguing that clear rules would help weed out bad actors and prevent future Terra-style collapses.
Others, including Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA), warned that the bill "guts core consumer protections" and would "allow foreign and unvetted entities to flood the market with opaque dollar tokens."
The bill contains provisions that bar federal agencies from banning privacy-preserving technologies in stablecoin wallets but allows the Treasury to block specific transactions or protocols if national security risks are found. The move was seen as a concession to civil liberties groups and more libertarian-leaning Republicans.
Additionally, the bill defines what constitutes a “payment stablecoin” and allows registered institutions—like banks or licensed money services businesses—to issue them, provided they maintain 1:1 reserves in highly liquid assets such as dollars, Treasury bills, or central bank reserves.
However, it’s the international implications that may be most contentious. The bill would allow U.S.-licensed foreign firms to issue stablecoins within the U.S. market, so long as they report to U.S. regulators and pass quarterly audits. That move drew criticism from some lawmakers who fear it will benefit firms tied to adversarial governments.
Rep. Katie Porter (D-CA), who voted against the bill, said: "We are green-lighting a digital dollar shadow economy before we’ve even set the rules of the road."
The bill now heads to the Senate, where its prospects remain uncertain. Senate Banking Chair Sherrod Brown (D-OH) has yet to endorse the bill and is said to be drafting a competing version with tighter controls on foreign issuers and stricter anti-money laundering requirements.
For now, the House victory gives Trump a significant policy win as crypto continues to be a major wedge issue ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
@ Newshounds News™
Source: The Block
~~~~~~~~~
GDP OF BRICS COUNTRIES OUTPERFORMS GLOBAL AVERAGE, US DISTANTLY BEHIND
The GDP of BRICS countries has outperformed market expectations and is exceeding the global average in 2025, according to the World Economic Outlook report published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The US, on the other hand, is distantly behind as its economy is growing in a limited manner this year.
In 2025, BRICS countries—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—saw a combined growth of 3.4%, which exceeded expectations. The current consensus forecast predicts the GDP growth of the US at only 1.4% in 2025. The US economy is lagging behind this year with minimal growth, and the tariffs are threatening what little is left.
Below is the list of BRICS countries’ GDP projections for 2025:
Ethiopia (6.6%)
India (6.2%)
Indonesia (4.7%)
United Arab Emirates (4%)
China (4%)
South Africa (3.4%)
Brazil (2.3%)
BRICS GDP Shines in 2025, US Economy On the Razor’s Edge
The latest data from the IMF also shows that BRICS accounts for 40% of the global GDP in 2025. That’s massive, as they already cover nearly half of the world’s economy. Their Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) is projected to reach 41% this year, signifying that the alliance is growing rapidly.
“There is no way that BRICS is not relevant, given the size of its population (and GDP in 2025). And there are also countries that are key in the supply of commodities, such as Brazil and Russia, which supply energy, food, and even very important strategic minerals,” said Rodrigo Cezar, Professor of International Relations at the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV) and a specialist in international political economy.
“So the BRICS countries are going to be very relevant in terms of dictating or giving direction to the prices of these materials,” leaving the US economy under its mercy, explained Cezar.
BRICS GDP could pressurize the markets in 2025, leading to it dominating the prices of the commodity markets this year.
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“Iraq and Iran” News posted by Clare at KTFA 5-12-2025
KTFA:
Clare: Iraq on Trump's agenda during his Middle East tour
5/12/2025
US President Donald Trump is embarking on a tour of the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. This visit is described as crucial given the profound changes taking place in the region .
The Saudi capital, Riyadh, is hosting the summit that will bring together Trump and the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries .
According to the White House, the visit's agenda will focus on enhancing investment and security cooperation, in addition to discussing hot regional issues. Specific agreements are expected to be signed, establishing a new phase of strategic partnership between the United States and the Gulf states .
KTFA:
Clare: Iraq on Trump's agenda during his Middle East tour
5/12/2025
US President Donald Trump is embarking on a tour of the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. This visit is described as crucial given the profound changes taking place in the region .
The Saudi capital, Riyadh, is hosting the summit that will bring together Trump and the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries .
According to the White House, the visit's agenda will focus on enhancing investment and security cooperation, in addition to discussing hot regional issues. Specific agreements are expected to be signed, establishing a new phase of strategic partnership between the United States and the Gulf states .
The changes include events in Gaza, Lebanon, and regime change in Syria, in addition to relations between Iran and the United States, and Israeli attacks .
Regarding the situation in Iraq, despite the entry of pro-Iranian factions into the conflict, US pressure has forced these factions to surrender their weapons to the state, with Tehran's blessing, according to media reports .
Trump's upcoming visit is an opportunity to redefine America's role in the region and define Washington's interests in light of a new reality characterized by shifting alliances and balances of power .
Amidst the Gaza conflict and the changing maps of Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq, Trump is visiting the region carrying a new vision for American engagement in the Middle East . LINK
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Clare: Japanese Mazda launches in Iraq with a new look
5/11/2025
Al-Aroush Cars Company announced the signing of an official distribution agreement with the Japanese company Mazda, making it the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles in Iraq. The signing took place in Hiroshima City in the presence of Al-Aroush CEO, Sabah Abdul Latif Al-Salem, and Mazda's Global Sales Manager, Manabu Osoga.
Under the agreement, Al-Aroush will provide Mazda vehicles manufactured in Japan, known for their performance and design, while adapting them to the needs of the Middle East market.
The plan begins with the launch of two centers for sales, after-sales services, and spare parts in Baghdad and Sulaymaniyah, with additional centers to be opened later in Erbil and Basra. The company also aims to support existing Mazda owners in Iraq through a network of genuine service, maintenance, and spare parts. LINK
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Clare: "Quantum leap"... Iraqi ports receive 207 oil tankers during the first quarter of 2025.
5/12/2025
The General Company for Iraqi Ports announced on Monday that Khor Al-Zubair oil port received 207 oil tankers during the first quarter of 2025.
The company's general manager, Farhan Al-Fartousi, told Shafaq News Agency, "Khor Al-Zubair Oil Port has been able to provide marine services, including docking, launching, loading, unloading, and fuel loading for incoming ships."
He added that "the oil tankers received all logistical services within the port under the supervision of maritime control, with high efficiency," noting that "this performance reflects the development of the port's infrastructure and the efforts of its workforce."
Last February, the Director General of Iraqi Ports, Farhan Al-Fartousi, revealed an "unprecedented" achievement in Iraq's history: the International Maritime Organization's LINK
Clare: Al-Sudani appreciates the International Monetary Fund's efforts in supporting Iraq and its financial and monetary institutions.
5/12/2025- Baghdad
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani on Monday commended the International Monetary Fund's efforts in supporting Iraq and its financial and monetary institutions, reviving their vital role domestically and internationally.
The Prime Minister's Media Office said in a statement, seen by Al-Eqtisad News, that "Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani received the head of the International Monetary Fund's mission to Iraq, Jean-Guillaume Poulin, and the Fund's Resident Representative in Iraq, Mohammed Jaber."
The statement added, "Al-Sudani appreciated the efforts of the International Monetary Fund in supporting Iraq and its financial and monetary institutions, thus restoring their vital role at the local and international levels, especially since the Fund is a key partner in Iraq's efforts to reform the economy and enhance its stability." He stressed that "the achievements made by the government in the financial, banking and economic fields represent positive steps towards achieving stability and sustainable development in the country."
According to the statement, Al-Sudani pointed to "the importance of continued support from international partners for the government in intensifying efforts to mitigate the impact of the challenges facing the region, thus facilitating the implementation of steps aimed at diversifying and sustaining the economy, through the investment environment it has provided that has attracted major development projects."
For his part, Polan commended the significant progress made by the Iraqi government in economic reform, including the development of the tax and customs system. He expressed the IMF's readiness to increase coordination and joint action, and to provide the necessary advice in areas of enhancing non-oil revenues. LINK
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Clare: Rafidain launches the second phase of "Riyada" with national funding and a new economic vision.
5/12/2025
Rafidain Bank announced, today, Monday, the launch of the second phase of financing the “Riyada” initiative projects, after the success of the first phase, which witnessed the financing of more than (8,000) productive projects at the individual level, with a total amount exceeding (107) billion Iraqi dinars, which constituted a real boost to the path of self-employment and stimulating the local economy.
Rafidain Bank's General Manager, Ali Karim Al-Fatlawi, confirmed in a statement received by {Euphrates News} that "the bank no longer views financing as merely a traditional banking service, but rather treats it as a strategic development tool with a national focus, aiming to support youth, stimulate local markets, and establish new foundations for a productive economy free from rent-seeking and random employment."
He added, "The bank has allocated sufficient funds to finance new projects submitted through Riyada, after completing the technical, legal, and economic feasibility assessment requirements. He emphasized that Rafidain Bank is gradually transforming into the largest national platform supporting entrepreneurship and local production."
For his part, Hussein Flamarz, Advisor to the Prime Minister, pointed out that “the projects ready for financing exceed (10,000) projects, appreciating Rafidain Bank’s exceptional response to the initiative, and its close cooperation with the global smart card company (Ki Card) in facilitating procedures and reaching beneficiaries.”
In this context, the Director General of Rafidain Bank renews his call to all national institutions, foremost among them the Central Bank of Iraq, to actively engage in this national initiative by:
• Allocating easy financing windows for emerging projects,
• Launching a national fund to guarantee entrepreneurs’ loans,
• Integrating the “Riyada” initiative into the upcoming financial inclusion strategy. LINK
Clare: Central Bank of Iran: Removing four zeros from the national currency is at the heart of the action plan for this year.
5/12/2025
The Governor of the Central Bank of Iran, Mohammad Reza Farzin, announced that removing four zeros from the national currency is one of the bank's priorities this year.
Mehr News Agency reported that during a specialized session on "Strengthening Monetary and Banking Governance and Investment in Production," Farzin noted that the Central Bank is seriously pursuing the country's monetary system reform program this year, explaining that removing four zeros from the national currency is one of the key measures included in the action plan.
Farzin added that the policy of controlling the growth of banks' balance sheets will continue, with the aim of curbing inflation and increasing liquidity. He emphasized that removing the four zeros from the national currency is part of the monetary system reform program, which is being seriously pursued.
The Central Bank Governor also noted that developing and issuing various types of monetary policy instruments, including deposit paper and inflation-protected securities, is among the bank's major objectives. He also emphasized that a special production account will be established to support the economy's productive sectors in a targeted manner. LINK
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Clare: Iran announces imminent visit of Russian president to Tehran
5/12/2025 Baghdad /
The Iranian government announced, on Monday, that it is preparing to receive Russian President Vladimir Putin during an upcoming visit to Tehran, within the context of deepening strategic cooperation between the two countries.
Government spokeswoman Fatima Mohajerani said in a press conference, "Iran is awaiting President Putin's visit soon, and is currently working to complete the arrangements related to receiving the high-level Russian delegation."
This visit comes in light of rapid regional and international transformations, and growing coordination between Tehran and Moscow on political, security and economic issues.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited Moscow in mid-January, where he met his Russian counterpart and oversaw the signing of the "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement" between the two countries, which Putin officially ratified on April 21. LINK
Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Monday Afternoon 5-12-25
46 Prominent Iraqi Businessmen And Traders Travel To America.
Baghdad Today – Baghdad The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad announced today, Sunday, May 11, 2025, that it will lead a delegation of 46 Iraqi business leaders, including representatives from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, to the United States to participate in the annual SelectUSA Investment Summit.
The US Embassy noted in a statement received by Baghdad Today that
the summit will be held in the Washington, D.C., area from May 11th to 14th.
46 Prominent Iraqi Businessmen And Traders Travel To America.
Baghdad Today – Baghdad The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad announced today, Sunday, May 11, 2025, that it will lead a delegation of 46 Iraqi business leaders, including representatives from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, to the United States to participate in the annual SelectUSA Investment Summit.
The US Embassy noted in a statement received by Baghdad Today that
the summit will be held in the Washington, D.C., area from May 11th to 14th.
She noted that "the delegation includes diverse economic sectors, including technology, cybersecurity, tourism and hospitality, food and beverage industries, franchises, agriculture, construction, investment, pharmaceutical industries, real estate, and the oil and gas sector.
This diversity highlights the broad opportunities for cooperation and joint investment between the United States and Iraq."
The SelectUSA Summit is the largest event of its kind aimed at encouraging foreign direct investment in the United States.
The summit attracts international investors, representatives from state and local governments, and
government officials, with the goal of facilitating the flow of investment into the US economy.
The summit is organized by the US Department of Commerce, which provides essential information and services to help foreign investors understand and complete investment procedures in the United States.
The goal is to enable Iraqi companies to identify investment opportunities in the United States and grow their businesses, according to the statement.
He explained that "this visit comes within the context of a series of important visits aimed at strengthening economic relations between Iraq and the United States in various sectors."
It's worth noting that a delegation from the US International Development Finance Corporation visited Baghdad this May, and in April, more than 100 businessmen and companies affiliated with the American-Iraqi Chamber of Commerce participated in a business forum held in Baghdad. https://baghdadtoday.news/274002-46.html
Ministry Of Oil: Iraq Is Floating On A Large And Inexhaustible Oil And Gas Reservoir.
Time: 2025/05/11 08:15:30 Reading: 3,030 times {Economic: Al Furat News} The Ministry of Oil reported that Iraq is floating on a large oil and gas reservoir from north to south, and work is ongoing to reach new discoveries.
Osama Raouf Hussein, the director general of the Ministry of Oil Exploration's company, said in a press statement that "Iraq's reserves are large and are what raises its ranking in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)," noting that "Iraq is floating on a large oil and gas reservoir from north to south, and it will not be depleted from now on and for a very long time."
He added, "The Oil Exploration Company is a pioneer in the field of seismic surveys and is the sole exploration arm of the Ministry of Oil. 8
With the help of its seismic teams spread throughout Iraq, it has been able to carry out seismic surveys for international companies. It signed a contract with the Chinese company Geo-Jade to carry out a two- and three-dimensional seismic survey of the Khana oil patch in Diyala Governorate.
This contract was implemented with purely national efforts and with modern capabilities, potential and technology that rivals what exists in the world. It was implemented in record time and with a 100 percent completion rate.
In addition, a contract was signed with the Angolan company Sonangol to carry out three-dimensional surveys of the Qayyarah field in Nineveh Governorate, which was completed 100 percent. The Oil Exploration Company received certificates of appreciation and praise from both companies for the information, accuracy and speed of completion."
Hussein explained that, "Despite the limited and scarce financial capabilities, the company was able to carry out 15 two-dimensional seismic surveys at the national level, with completion rates of 102.4 percent, in addition to four three-dimensional surveys with a completion rate of 116 percent."
He stressed that "the Oil Exploration Company is currently using the most modern surveys in the world, and is in the process of introducing wireless technology, which is characterized by flexibility, ease of use, and saving time, effort, and cost."
The Director General of the Oil Exploration Company indicated that "it was able to achieve revenues estimated at 230 billion dinars during the past year, in addition to achieving revenues through the VSP vertical survey team estimated at 114 thousand dollars by signing a contract with the American company (Halliburton), in addition to contracts with (Anton Oil) in the Al-Faiha field, and (EBS) in the East Baghdad field."
He explained that "the Oil Exploration Company was supposed to receive an operating budget estimated at 200 billion dinars, of which the company received only 10 percent," noting that "the company was threatened with ceasing operations had it not signed some contracts through which it was able to achieve high revenues."
Hussein continued, "The mission of the Oil Exploration Company is to enhance hydrocarbon reserves and replenish depleted reserves. This is achieved through exploration of hydrocarbon reservoirs and assessment of their reserves, through geological and geophysical exploration studies, and identifying the locations of exploratory wells. When they are drilled and produce oil or gas, this means they have added to Iraq's reserves and replenished depleted reserves through local consumption and export outside Iraq." LINK
Iraq Was The Third Largest Oil Exporter To The US Last Week.
Energy Economy News – Baghdad Iraq ranked third as the largest oil supplier to the United States last week. The US Energy Information Administration reported that US crude oil imports from ten major countries averaged 5.269 million barrels per day last week, up 176,000 barrels per day from the previous week's average of 5.093 million barrels per day.
The administration added that "Iraq's oil exports to the United States reached an average of 229,000 barrels per day, making Iraq the third-largest oil exporter to the United States last week."
She continued, "The largest oil revenues to America during the past week came from Canada, at a rate of 3.834 million barrels per day, followed by Mexico at a rate of 384,000 barrels per day, then Iraq at a rate of 229,000 barrels per day, then Colombia at a rate of 164,000 barrels per day, and then Saudi Arabia at a rate of 160,000 barrels per day."
She explained that "the amount of US crude oil imports from Ecuador reached an average of 156,000 barrels per day, from Venezuela an average of 144,000 barrels per day, from Brazil an average of 86,000 barrels per day, from Nigeria an average of 83,000 barrels per day, and from Libya an average of 29,000 barrels per day." https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=55332
Customs Automation Increases Government Revenues To More Than 59 Billion Dinars.
May 11, 2025 Baghdad - Ibtihal Al-Arabi Finance Minister Taif Sami revealed a quantum leap in customs revenues, exceeding 59 billion dinars, following the implementation of the ASYCUDA customs automation system at several border crossings.
Sami said in a statement yesterday that (customs revenues before implementing the ASYCUDA system amounted to 375 billion dinars, while after implementation it increased to 435 billion dinars, an increase of 59 billion dinars), and indicated that (the General Authority of Customs has begun implementing the ASYCUDA system in 15 customs centers, including the air cargo customs, the dry port, the Baghdad International Airport terminal, the Great Welcome Square customs, Trebil, Safwan, Arar, Umm Qasr Middle, Umm Qasr South, Kirkuk Airport, and the ports of Zurbatiyah, Al-Mundhiriya, Mandali, Al-Shaib, and Al-Shalamcheh).
She indicated that (the Authority has currently begun implementing the second phase of the system, which extends over two years, and includes its implementation in 8 remaining customs centers, in addition to linking 12 electronic applications to the system, including land transport clearance, the smart value and selectivity system, and the exemptions, licenses, and certificates system, which will enable the system to be linked with all ministries).
Meanwhile, the Border Ports Authority has compiled a list of all violations detected during the month of April.
In a statement received by Al-Zaman yesterday, Authority spokesman Alaa al-Din al-Qaisi said, "Based on the directives and follow-up of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, the Authority detected violations that fell under several headings."
Customs Violations
He stressed that "the total number of customs cases referred from our ports to the judiciary amounted to 119 cases for customs violations, while 131 suspects wanted by judicial warrants were arrested."
He confirmed that (attempts to smuggle money were thwarted, with 6 seizures), and went on to (seize narcotic substances and arrest their possessors, as 26 drug smuggling attempts were thwarted, as well as deport 155 people violating residency conditions, in addition to a number of joint activities with departments operating at border crossings, most notably with the General Authority of Customs, where the number reached 13 cases, including the destruction of materials unfit for human consumption, and the re-issuance of goods that failed inspection).
He continued that (all violations were subject to the necessary legal measures, and were referred to the judicial authorities according to proper seizure reports), pointing out that (all measures come from the implementation of government directives to tighten and control border crossings, and the Authority continues to follow up on all violations and work to control and reduce their occurrence).
Meanwhile, the Trade Bank of Iraq warned citizens of the risks of sharing their electronic payment card information.
The bank's media advisor, Aqil Al-Shuwaili, said in a statement yesterday that "the bank urges customers not to share their card numbers or confidential information, such as the PIN, verification code, or any other details, with any party."
Official Channels
He pointed out that "there are electronic fraud attempts targeting cardholders through fake messages claiming to be from the bank," calling on everyone to "exercise caution and report any suspicious attempt immediately through the bank's official channels." He went on to say that "the bank continues to take all necessary security measures to protect customer data and ensure the integrity of their financial transactions." LINK
For current and reliable Iraqi news please visit: https://www.bondladyscorner.com/
Why We Can Forget About “Drill Baby Drill” (Podcast)
Why We Can Forget About “Drill Baby Drill” (Podcast)
Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black) May 7, 2025
Travis Stice is not one of those rare corporate CEOs who is a household name around the world... like Warren Buffett. But the two share a similar ethos.
Buffett famously quipped, “Be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful,” which was ultimately a nod to the cyclical nature of markets and the economy.
As surely as night follows day, and autumn/winter follow summer, bad times follow good... and then good times follow bad.
Why We Can Forget About “Drill Baby Drill” (Podcast)
Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black) May 7, 2025
Travis Stice is not one of those rare corporate CEOs who is a household name around the world... like Warren Buffett. But the two share a similar ethos.
Buffett famously quipped, “Be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful,” which was ultimately a nod to the cyclical nature of markets and the economy.
As surely as night follows day, and autumn/winter follow summer, bad times follow good... and then good times follow bad.
Travis Stice understands this cyclicality all too well. As the founder/CEO of a large, pure-play Permian basin shale company (Diamondback Energy), he has seen ridiculously wild swings in the oil market, literally from nearly $150 per barrel all the way down to MINUS $40 per barrel, all within the past 15-20 years.
So his warnings on the oil market are undoubtedly worth hearing.
Stice penned an update to his shareholders earlier this week that bears special attention. And in it, he warned of the following:
Over the past fifteen years, the US energy sector has provided extraordinary benefits to the US economy and American consumers.
Rising oil production— thanks almost exclusively to shale producers— has kept energy prices low, driven job growth and exports, increased GDP, and filled government tax coffers.
In 2024 alone, Texas collected $27 billion in state tax revenue from the oil and gas industry— more than the total tax revenue of more than 34 states.
Yet oil production costs in the US have risen dramatically over the past decade. And tariffs make oil production significantly more expensive.
There are further geological headwinds preventing further expansion; many shale resources are reaching their peak— or are already past their peak production.
As a result of these factors, US oil production is now falling. Key metrics like crew counts and rig counts are down by as much as 20%.
Simultaneously, oil is cheap right now. Adjusted for inflation— and adjusted for the cost of drilling— oil is nearly the cheapest it has been in decades (aside from the pandemic).
With such cheap prices, there will be very little exploration for new oil... which is really bad for US energy independence, and likely means much higher prices in the future.
Stice sums it up by saying, “This will have a meaningful impact on our industry and our country.”
This is the topic of our latest podcast episode— and, candidly, the future of energy is pretty critical to understand. Oil may be cheap now, but this will likely be short-lived, and we could see a major price spike down the road— especially if the US dollar is displaced as the global reserve currency.
We invite you to listen in to today’s podcast here.
(For the audio-only version, check out our online post here.)
To your freedom, James Hickman Co-Founder, Schiff Sovereign LLC
Economist’s “News and Views” 5-12-2025
The absolute beginning of collapse, Gold will explode in value- Bill Holter
Triangle Investor: 5-12-2025
In this interview, Bill Holter discusses the looming economic instability and potential financial collapse driven by a massive derivatives market.
He emphasizes the risks associated with major financial institutions and the implications of the US's growing debt.
Holter also highlights the importance of gold and silver as safe havens during crises, the challenges facing China, and the future of financial markets amidst rising inflation and interest rates.
He warns that the current financial system is unsustainable and urges individuals to take proactive measures to protect their wealth.
The absolute beginning of collapse, Gold will explode in value- Bill Holter
Triangle Investor: 5-12-2025
In this interview, Bill Holter discusses the looming economic instability and potential financial collapse driven by a massive derivatives market.
He emphasizes the risks associated with major financial institutions and the implications of the US's growing debt.
Holter also highlights the importance of gold and silver as safe havens during crises, the challenges facing China, and the future of financial markets amidst rising inflation and interest rates.
He warns that the current financial system is unsustainable and urges individuals to take proactive measures to protect their wealth.
IMF CONFIRMS IT: Gold's Revaluation Will Be Beyond Your Wildest Imagination! - Andy Schectman
Financial Wisdom: 5-12-2025
0:00 - IMF declares major global economic reset
0:17 - Speculations on gold's future value
1:00 - U.S. becomes major gold importer for first time since WWII
1:24 - Trump's statement and discussions on gold revaluation
2:12 - Market vs. government-led gold revaluation scenarios
3:05 - Calculating gold's potential revaluation based on M1 supply
4:42 - Central banks' incentive to revalue gold
5:21 - Global accumulation and repatriation of gold
6:02 - Slow reintegration of gold into the monetary system
6:27 - Historical precedent for gold revaluation
7:06 - COMEX inflows suggest preparation for gold repricing
8:22 - Risk in London's over-leveraged gold market
9:03 - States begin recognizing gold and silver as legal tender
10:56 - Something is clearly changing with gold and silver
11:52 - Market volatility manipulation and price suppression
13:09 - China's gold accumulation and ETF inflows
13:53 - A generational shift in monetary thinking
14:04 - Gold's return as more than a commodity
Why Government Spending Dropped 5.1% in Q1
Heresy Financial: 5-12-2025
Monday Coffee with MarkZ. 05/12/2025
Monday Coffee with MarkZ. 05/12/2025
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- Another Monday with this group ~ Best part of waiting for the RV is spending time with you all!
Member: Hope all moms had a great Mothers Day Weekend.
Member: Welcome back home Mark……in the famous words of Jerry Maguire, show me the money lol
Monday Coffee with MarkZ. 05/12/2025
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- Another Monday with this group ~ Best part of waiting for the RV is spending time with you all!
Member: Hope all moms had a great Mothers Day Weekend.
Member: Welcome back home Mark……in the famous words of Jerry Maguire, show me the money lol
MZ: There is some positive stuff coming out of the rumor mill. Bond folks will not tell me if they have received dollars or not. They seem awfully liquid and awfully happy but will not tell me yeah or nay.
MZ: They did say there is a lot of competition for some of the bond deals. There are competing buying groups like the Treasury and Chinese elders …they are paying higher and higher prices for bonds which is a good thing for us.
MZ: This does not tell us timing…..but them being offered more….I find interesting. Maybe it will speed up those bonds.
MZ: I also had a number of sources come to me over the weekend and tell me Venezuela is now 100% in the first basket. That really makes me feel better that they are ramping things up on the Bolivar. This was my favorite piece of weekend news.
MZ: There is supposed to be a lot more news coming in today. I usually get group news Monday afternoons.
MZ: Trump is leaving right now for his Middle East Tour.
Member: There are old rumors that the President needed to be out of country when RV/Reset was released. Wonder if they are still valid?
Member: Hopefully while Trump is on the way to Saudi Arabia he sends out the EAS
Member: I would be surprised if the RV doesn’t happen this week before the Arab summit that Iraq is hosting. I believe it starts in a couple of days.
Member: So what was the big “earth shattering” announcement for President Trump ?
Member: I believe the big announcement is an EO involving Pharma prices and bringing down prescription cost by 30-70 %
Member: 30-80% discount on pharmaceuticals is HUGE! Parity on drugs worldwide means parity at all levels……countries also
MZ: You may be on to something. Is this a move toward Nesara/Gesara and parity for all?
Member: Trump. 30 days for drug companies to drop drug prices.
Member: IMO- Mark his 1 hour and 8 minutes that President Trump did this morning was basically him was telling everyone NESARA GESARA
Member: I heard the assets are Gold - they are now trading in gold
Member: I’m wondering - Is the US running 2 monetary systems at this time?
Member: Hopefully they are …and one is the QFS?
Member: The MSM news this AM was talking about eliminating Ohio property tax..
Member: Still hoping they get rid of income taxes and the IRS
Member: (From Dinar Guru) Mnt Goat I believe the pivot point for us investors is all riding on the Iranian talks. Not a single event but a pivot point. What will come of Iran is also part of the fate of Iraq. We can also see now the parallel market is all about to be fully broken and the dinar is rising every day...Remember also that these correspondent banks for the remaining 5% of the foreign transactions is slowly being implemented, with a completion target by June, not starting in June... So, now we gradually hear about the decline of the dollar and rise of the dinar. This is a target for the CBI...
MZ: I totally buy everything being said right there.
MZ: “ We apologize to the chest” Parliamentary Framework: offers the second term to the Sudanese in exchange for a fee” Watching political machinations are laughable. The people are clear on who they want.
MZ: “Iraqi Ministry announces new recovery units” This really sounds like DOGE. Handling corruption and cleaning up governments. It also sounds like Nesara/Gesara. We have seen the same movement in Vietnam, Indonesia . Iraq and the US.
MZ: “A quantum leap: an Iraqi port receives 207 oil tankers for the first quarter of 2025” This is part of the belt/road initiative. To increase their port and trade system. They have made huge progress in a short time. They are experiencing a “Renaissance” in Iraq which should bring us a change in dinar value.
Member: so are we looking at June now?
MZ: I don’t know the timing but still think it may happen in May.
Member: Praying this RV will be wrapped up by Memorial Day!!!!
Member: Thanks Mark and mods….. Have a good day everyone
Mod: THANK YOU, MARK AND COMM FAMILY!! SEE ALL OF YOU AT 10:00 AM EST TOMORROW, UNLESS SOMETHING HAPPENS, FOR ANOTHER GREAT PODCAST...
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.
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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