MilitiaMan & Crew: Iraqi Dinar News Update-Rare Earths-IMF-NewTrade Financial System-$Trillions-Exchange Rate Oriented

MilitiaMan & Crew:  Iraqi Dinar News Update-Rare Earths-IMF-NewTrade Financial System-$Trillions-Exchange Rate Oriented

5-15-2025

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

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htIzx2xUuto

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Thursday Evening 5-15-25

Iraq: Concluding Statement Of The 2025 IMF Article IV Mission

May 15, 2025   A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF's Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission, led by Mr. Jean-Guillaume Poulain, met with the Iraqi authorities in Amman and Baghdad during May 4–13 to conduct the 2025 Article IV consultation. The following statement was issued at the end of the mission:

A highly uncertain global environment, falling oil prices, and acute financing pressures, are taking a toll on economic activity and exacerbating Iraq’s existing vulnerabilities, calling for urgent measures to preserve fiscal and external stability.

These include containing the fiscal deficit by mobilizing non-oil tax revenues and reining in the public wage bill, completing the restructuring of state-owned banks, and promoting private sector growth, by reforming the labor market, improving the business environment, enhancing governance and fighting corruption.

Building on recent progress, the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) should continue modernizing the banking system and supporting private banks in expanding their corresponding banking relationships.

Recent Economic Developments, Outlook and Risks

The non-oil sector grew at a slower pace last year and inflation remained subdued. Following a very strong growth of 13.8 percent in 2023, Iraq's non-oil GDP is expected to have considerably moderated to 2.5 percent in 2024, driven by a slowdown in public investment and in the services sector, as well as a weaker trade balance.

The agriculture, manufacturing, and construction sectors remained resilient, benefiting from post-drought recovery, expanded refining capacity, and strong growth in credit to households.

The decline in oil production weighed on overall growth, which contracted by 2.3 percent for the year. Inflation dropped to 2.7 percent by end-2024, amid lower food price inflation and liquidity absorption from the CBI.

The fiscal position has deteriorated, along with external balances. The 2024 fiscal deficit is estimated at 4.2 percent of GDP, compared to 1.1 percent in 2023, reflecting rising spending on wages and salaries and energy purchases. Financing constraints have led to reemergence of arrears notably in energy and capital expenditure.

On the external front, the current account surplus narrowed sharply from 7.5 percent to 2 percent of GDP, due to a surge in goods imports. Nonetheless, external buffers remain strong, with reserves at US$100.3 billion at end-2024—covering over 12 months of imports.

Non-oil growth is projected to remain subdued in 2025 amid a challenging global environment and financing constraints. Non-oil GDP is projected to slow down to 1 percent this year as the impact of falling oil prices and financing constraints weigh on government spending and consumer sentiment.

 The current account is expected to weaken considerably in 2025 primarily due to declining oil export revenues. The deterioration in the external position is projected to weigh on foreign reserves.

Policy Priorities

Iraq’s vulnerabilities have increased in recent years due to a large fiscal expansion. Beside weighing on prospects of private sector-led growth, current public employment policies and resulting wage costs are unsustainable given Iraq’s low non-oil tax base. Accordingly, dependence on oil revenues has worsened, and the oil price required to balance the budget increased to around $84 in 2024, up from $54 in 2020.

These challenges have been exacerbated by the sharp decline in oil prices in 2025, requiring an urgent policy response. In the very short-term, the authorities should review current and capital spending plans for 2025 and limit or postpone all non-essential expenditure.

At the same time, there may be scope to increase non-oil revenues by revising customs duties as well as introducing or raising excise taxes.

The authorities should also explore options to diversify the creditors base for increasing financing availability. Monetary financing of the deficit should be avoided as it could fuel inflation, drain FX reserves, and weaken the CBI’s balance sheet.

More broadly, a sizable fiscal consolidation is needed to mitigate macro-fiscal risks, ensure debt sustainability, and rebuild fiscal buffers. On the revenue side, besides customs duties and excise taxes, there is scope to gradually reform personal income tax by limiting exemptions and increasing rates.

Strengthening tax administration—through digitalization, improved enforcement, and better collection—is essential. A more effective tax administration should allow for eventually introducing a general sales tax.

On the spending side, curbing current expenditures, particularly via comprehensive wage bill reforms, limiting mandatory hiring, and adopting attrition rule, would yield significant savings. Recent efforts to better target the public distribution system are welcome, but there is scope to further improve targeting and eventually shift to cash-based social safety nets.

Finally, it is urgent to reform the public pension system through raising the retirement age and reducing both the accrual and replacement rates is needed to enhance its sustainability.

Implementing these reforms would also create fiscal space to increase capital spending. Expanding non-oil investment, especially in trade and transportation infrastructure should help economic diversification.

Substantial investments are also required to modernize the electricity sector and develop natural gas resources, both of which are essential for improving energy security and reducing dependence on gas imports. Improved procurement, public financial management, and corruption control would enhance the effectiveness of any additional public investment.

Further efforts are needed to mop up excess liquidity in order to improve monetary policy transmission. While the CBI has made progress in absorbing excess liquidity, additional adjustments could enhance the effectiveness of the framework.

Key measures include increasing the issuance of CB-bills, focusing on the short maturity (14-day) at the policy rate, revising size limits on individual banks’ bids, and improving liquidity forecasting tools and practices. To safeguard its balance sheet and preserve credibility, the CBI should continue to avoid financing the government deficit.

The mission commended the CBI for the successful transition to the new trade finance system. Trade finance is now fully processed by commercial banks through their correspondent banking relationships. This has also supported the recent decline in the spread between the official and parallel market exchange rates.

Nonetheless, further efforts are needed to further reduce the spread, including by imposing Iraqi dinar usage for car and real estate transactions, improving customs controls to curb smuggling, and simplifying FX access.

While initial steps to reform state-owned banks are encouraging, broader efforts are needed to strengthen the financial sector. The restructuring plan for state-owned banks should be finalized without delay, encompassing treatment of non-performing loans, and recapitalization needs.

In parallel, the mission welcomed progress in digitalization and the authorities’ intention to undertake a comprehensive banking sector overhaul. Reforms should include enhancing corporate governance, digital infrastructure, and cybersecurity, while promoting a stronger role for private banks.

 Efforts to enhance AML/CFT measures by tackling the deficiencies identified in the MENAFATF Mutual Evaluation report should continue.

Chronic power shortages, electricity losses and excessive tariff subsidization continue to weigh on the economy. Addressing inefficiencies in the electricity sector is important for fiscal sustainability and improving productivity. In 2024, distribution losses reached 55 percent, driven by theft and illegal connections, leading to significant financial losses.

The authorities are deploying smart meters and have introduced other measures to enhance billing and collection. However, progress should be accelerated. Once collection substantially improves, achieving cost recovery will also require electricity tariff increases, with carefully calibrated subsidies targeted to low-income users.

Recent disruptions in electricity imports from Iran further underscore the need for diversified supply and the development of gas projects.

Combating corruption and governance weaknesses is imperative to support economic development. Steps taken in the implementation and upgrade of the national anticorruption strategy and the improvements in corruption perception indices are positive developments. However, corruption remains a significant hurdle for growth.

Strengthening accountability frameworks for the operation of state-owned and private enterprises in the oil, electricity and construction sectors is critical, and thorough compliance with Extractives Industries Transparency Initiative standards and the enactment of the law on Transparency and Access to Information should be prioritized.

Additionally, aligning anticorruption legal frameworks with international covenants and best practice, and strengthening the independence of the judiciary are essential for effective enforcement and for the protection of economic rights.

A comprehensive structural reform agenda is essential to unlock growth potential. The mission estimates that a comprehensive set of reforms covering the labor market, business regulation, the financial sector and governance could double non-oil potential GDP growth over the medium term.

On labor market, priorities include increasing labor force participation, particularly among women, by improving female education and further reducing barriers to their work and mobility, and reforming public sector hiring, which distort labor markets and reduce productivity.

Efforts to better align skills with labor market needs should intensify. More generally, simplifying regulations and reducing bureaucratic impediments in e.g. business registration or tax administration should increase participation in the formal economy and help private sector development.

The mission would like to thank the Iraqi authorities and various stakeholders for their excellent hospitality and cooperation and candid discussions during the mission.

IMF Communications Department
MEDIA RELATIONS
PRESS OFFICER: Mayada Ghazala

Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/15/mcs-iraq-concluding-statement-of-the-2025-imf-article-iv-mission?cid=em-COM-123-50132

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Thursday Evening 5-15-25

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

Trump’s Crypto Ties Pose Challenge for Stablecoin Legislation, Says Coinbase Exec

📍 Coinbase legal chief Paul Grewal says President Trump’s growing presence in crypto adds “a certain level of challenge” to bipartisan progress on digital asset legislation.

As the U.S. Senate prepares for another vote on the GENIUS Act — a stablecoin-focused bill aimed at regulating the digital dollar landscape — Coinbase Chief Legal Officer Paul Grewal has flagged President Donald Trump’s personal ventures into crypto as a complicating factor in building bipartisan consensus.

Speaking at the Consensus conference in Toronto on May 15, Grewal acknowledged that recent political tensions and concerns from both parties, especially Democrats, are slowing progress.

“The discussion around the president's support for a certain memecoin or two and other efforts does add a certain level of challenge to the effort to get Democrats and Republicans aligned,” Grewal noted. Still, he expressed confidence that both chambers of Congress would “sort all that out.”

🏛️ GENIUS Act Still Moving Forward

Despite the friction, lawmakers remain poised to vote on the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act in the coming days.

Recent reports suggest that Democrats were able to secure key revisions to the bill that include:

• Consumer protection enhancements

• Anti-Money Laundering (AML) safeguards

• National security provisions

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), one of the bill’s original sponsors, previously confirmed that language directly referencing Trump’s crypto ventures — including World Liberty Financial and the USD1 stablecoin — had been removed to help revive bipartisan support.

⚖️ Crypto Politics and Regulatory Headwinds

President Trump’s increasing crypto footprint — including meme coins, a stablecoin project, and a mining company — has triggered strong reactions on Capitol Hill. Prominent Democrats such as Senator Elizabeth Warren have pointed to these ventures as potential ethical hazards.

Grewal acknowledged that political entanglements may delay efforts to develop a comprehensive regulatory framework for stablecoins and the broader crypto market but emphasized that legislative momentum is still building.

“We’re going to learn a lot in the next few days about the appetite in Congress to move forward,” he said.

🧱 What’s Next?

After stablecoins, attention may shift toward a crypto market structure bill currently under review in the House. That bill builds on the FIT21 Act passed in 2024 and could face similar partisan scrutiny tied to “Trump’s crypto corruption,” according to some Democratic representatives.

Still, Grewal and other industry leaders are hopeful that the recent adjustments to the GENIUS Act will unlock further bipartisan cooperation as crypto regulation becomes a key legislative issue heading into the 2026 midterm elections.

@ Newshounds News™

🔗 Source: Cointelegraph

~~~~~~~~~

Central Bank of Russia Ranks Bitcoin as Top Global Investment Since 2022

📊 Bitcoin outpaces gold, stocks, and bonds with a 121.3% return, according to the Russian central bank.

In a move that underscores Bitcoin’s rising credibility on the world stage, the Central Bank of Russia has officially recognized Bitcoin as the top-performing global investment since 2022.

A new report from the bank shows that Bitcoin delivered:

• 38% returns over the past 12 months

• 121.3% cumulative return since 2022

This places it well ahead of traditional assets such as:

• Gold

• Equities

• Bonds

• The S&P 500 index

📉 Volatility Still a Factor

While Bitcoin outperformed all other assets, the Russian central bank also acknowledged its short-term volatility. Between January and April 2025, Bitcoin experienced a drop of 18.6%, underperforming most other asset classes.

The only assets that fared worse during this stretch were:

• Dollar-denominated savings

• The S&P 500

However, Bitcoin rebounded strongly in April, posting an 11.2% monthly gain, once again pulling ahead in the global investment race.

🚀 From Speculative to Strategic

The report highlights Bitcoin’s evolution from a speculative asset to a serious contender in global investment portfolios. Since 2022, Bitcoin has surged from under $20,000 to nearly $110,000, driven by:

• Institutional adoption

• Regulatory milestones

• Approval of spot BTC ETFs in the U.S. and Hong Kong

Even political factors are fueling this growth. President Donald Trump’s pro-crypto shift has added momentum to Bitcoin’s narrative as a strategic reserve asset.

🌍 Global Recognition and Adoption

Countries and companies alike are responding:

• Ukraine and Kyrgyzstan are exploring digital assets at the national level.

• Financial giants like Cantor Fitzgerald are integrating crypto strategies into broader financial operations.

Bitcoin is increasingly being viewed as:

• A hedge against macroeconomic risk

• A tool for expanding global financial access

• A potential long-term store of value, despite volatility

🔍 Summary

The Central Bank of Russia’s findings place Bitcoin squarely in the spotlight—not just as a volatile crypto asset but as a top-tier global investment with increasing legitimacy across the financial world.

@ Newshounds News™
🔗 Source: CryptoSlate

~~~~~~~~~

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Thank you Dinar Recaps

Thursday Evening News with MarkZ. 05/15/2025

Thursday Evening News with MarkZ. 05/15/2025

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 evening Mark Mods and everyone

Member: Mark- anything new and exciting today?

MZ: I did hear lots of reports from groups and bankers that rates were “populating” today….and all throughout the day. Very encouraging, but does it mean anything more than a test……that is the question.

Member: I heard a rumor our rate will be around $3.22

MZ: We have seen everything from $.1.70 or so for much of the day…then we saw around $3.22 …but rates have been all over the board. $3.22 would make sense for a RI (Re-instatement) and one of the easiest things for them to do. imo

Member: did you hear from your bond contacts today?

MZ: No, but one of the contacts who will not comment on what has occurred yesterday evening at their appointment…has let me know that they are seeing rates populating.  Others have said the same and they all used that same terminology. So could it be a test? Or does it mean “now?” I don’t know.

Member: Isaac just posted and said “Hello appt was today and I should get the confirmation Tuesday Wednesday, blessings.”

MZ: Sounds like his meeting with closing documents went well and he hopes to have dollars Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.

MZ: I was told on the bond deals it would take 3-5 business days to move and complete transactions.

Member: A bank reached out to a few currency holders I know and sent them information documenting what they need to exchange…are you hearing the same ?

MZ: Does no good to go bothering banks before its time….but I have heard others say close to the same things.

MZ: “Trade Bank of Iraq wins JP Morgan Chase’s STP award”  for doing a brilliant job on updating and modernizing systems for monetary transfers.

Member: Mark, my Chase Bank wealth manager here locally told me that JP Morgan won the contract for Iraq and that was back in February of 2024!

MZ: “ Sudani: Baghdad will host US-Iran nuclear talks amid regional tensions”  Iraq has become very important and will host the next round of talks.

Member: Mnt Goat  ( From Dinar Guru) They have told us over and over again that they needed time for the reforms to work and so...we see them working now...the stops along the way are the steps to get the reinstatement…Yes, it is all happening NOW not years from NOW. It is right in our faces now...

MZ: I agree- it’s right in our faces. The question is “when”

Member: Bagdad is hosting The Arab Summit. That says enough in itself….we have to be close.

Member: I wonder if Trump will show up there?

Member: I think Saturday is too important for Trump NOT to be there.

MZ: I was told by someone in the DC beltway that Trump may make a physical visit….and if not- he will make a digital visit …I am hearing this from many sources in the beltway. Some folks that work for congressman and senators.

 Member: I decided earlier today that if Trump came back to the United States without an RV. Happening I was going to be severely depressed..

Member: It would be nice to be outta this holding pattern.

Member: With things lining up in the ME (including Iran), I can’t imagine why we would see June without an RV

Member: Dear Lord...please let us be ready...please let this go...been a long had time for so many,,,,so many who will make a change for many now and in future,,,Your will Lord not mine,,please and thank you.

Member: Thank you Mark and mods! Have a great night Everyone!

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

https://rumble.com/user/theoriginalmarkz

Kick:  https://kick.com/theoriginalmarkz

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.

THANK YOU ALL FOR JOINING. HAVE A BLESSED NIGHT! SEE YOU ALL IN THE MORNING FOR COFFEE @ 10:00 AM EST ~ UNLESS BREAKING NEWS HAPPENS!

FROM NOW ON NO MORE NIGHTLY PODCASTS ON MONDAYS AND FRIDAYS

Youtube:     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_TBpy79Tnc

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Thursday Afternoon 5-15-25

46 Iraqi Business Leaders Participate In The Investment Summit In Washington

Thursday, May 15, 2025 11:43 | Economic Number of reads: 290  Baghdad/ NINA / 46 Iraqi business leaders participated in the investment summit in Washington.

The US Embassy in Baghdad said in a statement: “A delegation of 46 business leaders from Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region, arrived in the United States to participate in the annual SelectUSA Investment Summit, which was held in the Washington, D.C., area from May 11 to 14.”

It added: “The delegation included a variety of sectors, including technology, cybersecurity, tourism, hospitality, food and beverage, franchising, agriculture, construction, investment, pharmaceuticals, real estate, and oil and gas,” explaining that “the wide variety of opportunities aims to promote cooperation and investment between the United States and Iraq.”

The SelectUSA Investment Summit is the largest event dedicated to promoting foreign direct investment in the United States.

The summit brings together international investors, representatives from state and local governments, and government officials to facilitate investment in the American economy. The SelectUSA Summit is organized by the Department of Commerce and provides essential information and services to help foreign investors navigate the investment process in the United States. /End
https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1226982

Foreign Ministry To NINA: The Government Is Keen To Achieve These Priorities At The Baghdad Summit

Thursday, May 15, 2025, 3:44 PM | Politics Number of reads: 227  Baghdad / NINA / The Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed the Iraqi government's keenness to achieve important priorities during the Arab Summit, most notably strengthening joint Arab action with our brothers to match the challenges facing the Arab world and the region in general.

Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Hisham Al-Alawi said in an interview with the National Iraqi News Agency ( NINA ) today, Thursday, that "there are a set of Iraqi messages that we are keen to send and mature through the Arab Summit meetings in the capital, Baghdad, including highlighting the positive developments witnessed by Iraq politically, security-wise and economically,

emphasizing the continuation of Iraq's rational policy in playing a positive role with our brothers, pushing towards ending wars, disputes and conflicts within the region, and creating an interactive climate that allows for political reforms and provides platforms for joint dialogue."

He added: "Economically, we seek to demonstrate Iraq's ability, after achieving political and security stability, to provide important opportunities and investments for our brothers and other countries outside the region, leading to economic integration that contributes to the development of various sectors, including energy, agriculture, industry, tourism, the financial and banking sectors, and the private sector, and reflects positively on providing job opportunities for Iraqi and Arab youth together.

 We also seek to enhance Arab cooperation in the field of combating extremism and terrorism, and push towards greater educational and cultural cooperation between Arab countries, as Iraqi universities have provided great opportunities for Arab youth to study in Iraq, including the "Study in Iraq" initiative, which attracted about 5,000 Arab and foreign students, which contributes to strengthening relations between Iraqi and Arab universities and reflects positively on other sectors."

Regarding the level of attendance and representation of Arab leaders at the summit, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that "the level of presidential attendance at the Baghdad summit is good, and the number of leaders will exceed half, which is no less than the level of attendance at the Manama summit last year.

These are factors of optimism that we will emerge from a successful and different summit that pushes towards strengthening joint Arab action."

Regarding the outcomes of these meetings, Al-Alawi explained that "the meetings of the Ministerial Economic and Social Council, on Monday and Tuesday, focused on developmental, economic and social aspects. As for the delegates' meeting yesterday, Wednesday, and the foreign ministers' meeting today, Thursday, they are preparing draft recommendations and decisions for the Baghdad Declaration at the conclusion of the summit meeting, which will cover comprehensive political, technical and economic aspects, in addition to the Palestinian issue and support for Gaza.

There are also Iraqi and Arab initiatives that we expect to be approved and reflected in the formulation of the draft Baghdad Declaration at the conclusion of the meetings of Arab leaders and kings next Saturday."

He added, "The timing of the meetings and the circumstances in Iraq and the region provide great opportunities to work with our brothers to enhance joint cooperation, confront the challenges facing the Arab world politically and security-wise, and the state of instability in a number of Arab countries, as well as enhance Arab efforts to combat extremism and terrorism, increase Arab-Arab investments and partnerships, implement joint projects, provide Arab food security, and develop important sectors."

 He pointed out that "Iraq's leadership of the Arab group for a full year, as well as the economic development summit, as Iraq will lead the work of the Economic and Social Council for four years, will provide great opportunities to work with our brothers." /End
https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?Key=1227033

Gold Rebounds Slightly Ahead Of Fresh US Indicators

Money and Business  Economy News - Follow-up  Gold prices rose slightly in early trading Thursday as investors seized the opportunity after the yellow metal hit a one-month low in the previous session. Markets awaited US Producer Price Index data for further clues on the direction of the economy.

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

Spot gold rose 0.2 percent to $3,183.20 per ounce by 0033 GMT. U.S. gold futures fell 0.1 percent to $3,185.60, according to Reuters data.

Spot gold fell in the previous session to its lowest level since April 10 after a trade agreement between Washington and Beijing eased the trade war between the world's two largest economies. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=55479

Sharp Drop In Oil Prices

Time: 2025/05/15 09:07:09 Read: 1,875 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} Oil prices fell sharply during Asian trading on Thursday.

The decline came after a report that Iran had expressed openness to a nuclear agreement with US President Donald Trump, while data showing an unexpected rise in US crude oil inventories raised concerns about oversupply.

Brent crude futures due in June reached $65.04 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell to $61.62 per barrel.  https://alforatnews.iq/news/%D8%A7%D9%86%D8%AE%D9%81%D8%A7%D8%B6-%D8%AD%D8%A7%D8%AF-%D9%84%D9%84%D9%86%D9%81%D8%B7

The Dollar Continues To Rise In Baghdad And Erbil

Economy | 11:33 - 05/15/2025   Mawazine News – Baghdad  The US dollar exchange rate rose on Thursday morning in the markets of Baghdad and Erbil.

The dollar price rose on the Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya stock exchanges to 142,400 Iraqi dinars for every $100, while yesterday, Wednesday, it recorded 142,350 dinars for every $100.

Selling prices in exchange shops in the local markets in Baghdad rose, with the selling price reaching 143,500 Iraqi dinars for every $100, and the buying price reaching 141,500 dinars for every $100. https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=261462

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

Americans Don’t Understand Inflation — This Is How It Actually Affects Your Money

Americans Don’t Understand Inflation — This Is How It Actually Affects Your Money

Cynthia Measom   Wed, April 10, 2024

Inflation — it’s a word you hear frequently, but do you really understand what it means?

What most people know about inflation is that it makes things more expensive. A simple definition of inflation is that it’s the increase in the cost of goods and services over a time period in an economy, which is usually expressed as a yearly percentage. Inflation rates are measured by price indexes, including the consumer price index by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the personal consumption expenditures price index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis.

The main effects of inflation are better interest rates for savings accounts and higher costs of living, but there are several more nuanced effects to watch out for as you manage your money. Increasing your understanding about the different types of inflation and how they could impact your life both positively and negatively can help you make better financial decisions, especially when it comes to protecting your money now and in the long run.

Inflation Can Be Confusing

According to GOBankingRates’ 2024 Financial Literacy Survey, out of all current hot money topics — inflation, interest rates, Social Security and taxes — 38% of Americans find inflation to be the most confusing. Here’s a breakdown of the percentage of each age group that finds inflation most confusing:

18- to 24-year-olds: 29%

25- to 34-year-olds: 42%

35- to 44-year-olds: 41%

45- to 54-year-olds: 45%

55- to 64-year-olds: 35%

65 and over: 32%

Overall, respondents ages 18-24 and those 65 and over — members of the youngest and oldest age groups — find inflation to be less confusing than the other age groups. Respondents ages 45-54 find inflation to be the most confusing of all generations, followed people who are 25-34. Additionally, 40% of women versus 35% of men said that inflation was the most confusing of current hot money topics.

How Inflation Affects Your Money

Not all outcomes of inflation are bad. In fact, maintaining a healthy rate of inflation is good for the economy. Here are some of the positive and negative effects of inflation:

Positive: You’ll Get Better Savings Account Rates

Investors with short-term goals might invest in a high-interest savings account if they think they would need access to their funds in the near future. If this sounds like you, your short-term savings could get a boost because increasing inflation often prompts the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates, and banks, in turn, often raise the rates they pay on savings deposits. So you could benefit from a better return on money sitting in your cash or savings account.

Negative: Borrowing Becomes More Expensive

But those aren’t the only rates banks raise. When the Federal Reserve raises interest rates, it makes it more expensive for banks to borrow money from one another. These increased rates are then passed on to individual and business borrowers. The bottom line is that higher inflation means higher interest rates on the money you borrow — and less money in your pocket.

Negative: You’ll Pay More for Stuff

With inflation, prices of pretty much everything start to rise. Medical care and prices for prescription drugs could increase, and your rent could also go up. And unless your paycheck goes up at least as much as the inflation rate, you’ll be trying to pay for the increased costs of items on the same income, so inflation can be tough on the wallet — especially during hyperinflation.

https://news.yahoo.com/finance/news/americans-don-t-understand-inflation-140003599.html

More News, Rumors and Opinions Thursday Afternoon 5-15-2025

Ariel: The Possibilities of Real Value for Iran

The Possibilities Of Real Value:

Global Market Access
Oil Trade
Economic Stabilization
Black Market Rate Convergence
Rial Currency Exchange

Will Donald Trump make the deal?

InsiderPaper:  BREAKING: Iran is ready to sign a nuclear deal with certain conditions with President Donald Trump in exchange for lifting economic sanctions, a top advisor to Iran’s supreme leader told NBC News

Source(s):   https://x.com/Prolotario1/status/1922798287397994758

https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/05/15/ariel-prolotario1-the-possibilities-of-real-value-for-iran/

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

Militia Man  Agriculture and residential fields - that all take really big money to build that.  That's comes back to the budget.  They're not going to be able to build industrial refineries and stuff like that at 1310.  They've never done it before why are they going to do it today?  They're not.  It'd be just like suicide.  Think about it, if you have a real effective exchange rate and the dinar is much stronger than the dollar it becomes far cheaper to build this out.

Frank26   Watch the CBI open up to the new exchange rate once Donald Trump is done with Iran...Iran is the reason why you don't have the new exchange rate...Iran is doing the right thing...I want you to watch Trump deal with Iran and when he does, watch what the CBI does right after that.

Mnt Goat  They have told us over and over again that they needed time for the reforms to work and so...we see them working now...the stops along the way are the steps to get the reinstatement…Yes, it is all happening NOW not years from NOW. It is right in our faces now...

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

How the DRP Wiil Boost Iraq's Economy

Edu Matrix:  5-15-2025

How will Iraq’s $17 billion Development Road Project (DRP), also known as the “Dry Canal,” boost the value of the Iraqi Dinar (IQD)?

In this video, we explain how this massive 745-mile infrastructure corridor—linking Asia and Europe through Iraq—could transform the nation's economy.

 From reducing oil dependency to creating over 250,000 jobs and generating $4 billion annually in new revenues, the DRP is set to become Iraq’s economic lifeline.

Learn how the project will increase Iraq’s foreign currency reserves, attract global investors, and stabilize inflation, all of which could contribute to a more substantial and more valuable Iraqi Dinar.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61R68g9uZOE

Big Money Keep Taking Delivery of Silver & Gold | Andy Schectman

Liberty and Finance:  5-15-2025

Andy Schectman emphasized that the "smart money" is making an unprecedented move by standing for physical delivery of gold and silver on the COMEX, breaking historical records in the May contract.

 He interprets this surge in physical off-take as a powerful signal of eroding trust in paper financial systems and a systemic shift away from counterparty risk.

According to Schectman, this stealth accumulation by major players reflects deep concern about the credibility of U.S. Treasuries and global fiat structures.

The body language of central banks and institutional investors—choosing physical metal over ETFs—points to a broader de-dollarization trend and preparations for a new monetary framework.

 Ultimately, he sees this as a deliberate and strategic movement by the world's biggest money to hedge against systemic instability and monetary transformation.

INTERVIEW TIMELINE:

0:00 Intro

2:00 ETFs vs physical metals

7:00 Gold & silver update

12:30 Real ownership

16:30 Gold & silver exchanges

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

Thursday Coffee with MarkZ. 05/15/2025

Thursday Coffee with MarkZ. 05/15/2025

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 Mark and mods….Really hope this is our week.

Member: I believe the shift has occurred and we are in process for the events.

MZ: That checks out for what I am seeing.

Member: MZ, do you think /Trumps trip to Mid East and deals he is cutting with the countries there will have anything to do with the RV?

Member: What news from the bond side?

MZ: I do have someone who had a bond meeting last night at 7:00. I do not yet know the outcome of that. There are others I heard with appointments starting yesterday afternoon throughout the evening. Some today. I just do not have an update yet. Very frustrating, but hopefully I have one before tonights podcast.

Member: If they are signing NDA’s you may not get an update- which is good.

MZ: “Why is the Arab summit in Baghdad distinct from its predecessors?” I find these articles interesting. There is so many expectations. Can’t you guys feel it in the air? They keep pointing out that this is different from any other time period.

Member: I wonder if Trump will go to the Arab summit?

MZ: I think there is a 50/50 chance that he will appear. Also, will he show up in Turkey as well?? There are so many balls being juggled in the air right now.

Member: I wonder if Al-Sudani’s surprise at the Arab summit will be the RV? Heard all the ME leaders are sending delegates.

Member: I sure hope we don't see a float. I'd rather see an RI just to get it done.

MZ: “Iraq calls on the European Union to remove its name from the list of high-risk countries”  this is all about being “international”  

MZ: “Trump says they are close to completing a deal with Iran” They are close to a breakthrough. It is a hopeful time to be alive.

MZ: “Geologist’s discover the largest copper, gold and silver deposit in the last 3 decades”  This is in Argentina. This is pretty exciting and we are constantly seeing massive new discoveries. It’s like the world is preparing for a gold/commodity backed currencies.

MZ: We get a commodity super cycle when fiat tanks and asset backed currencies rule the day with prosperity for us all. We are at the end of one cycle and the beginning of another. We just have to survive the transition.

 Mod: Mark's next travel schedule. He leaves on May 17th (which is Mark's dad 80th B-Day) and comes back on May 21st. Zester will host the podcast when Mark is gone. Mark will pop in when he can.

Member: Thank you Mark, Mods and you great Patriots

Member: Everyone have a great day. Expect a miracle.

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

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=hLVF1Mj4nR8

The End of One Financial Age

The End of One Financial Age

589bull:   5-15-2025

Quiet currency swaps need quiet rails.

May 19: XRP derivatives drop.
Trump wraps up his Middle East power tour.
Iraq’s budget? Locked.
World Bank? Just gave the nod.

You think that’s coincidence?
Nah. That’s coordination.

XRP isn’t some retail coin—it’s a clearing weapon. When the IQD moves, it won’t be through SWIFT. It’ll ride rails built for speed, silence, and settlement.

This next month won’t just be historic. It’ll mark the end of one financial age… and the birth of another.

The old world? Debt-based. Rigged. Controlled by unelected bankers and invisible levers. That system’s unraveling.

What’s rising? Sovereign currencies. Asset-backed trade. Digital rails. Instant settlement. Trustless value.

Iraq was never just about oil.
XRP was never just a coin.
Tariffs were never just about trade.
And Trump’s return was never just political.

This is a full-system reset.

The clock is ticking.
The rails are loading.
The real money’s already moving.

We’re stepping into chapter one.
Stay sharp. Stay sovereign.
History doesn’t announce itself it moves in silence… then all at once.

Source(s):
https://x.com/589bull10000/status/1922627616357400712
https://x.com/589bull10000/status/1922642522267910341

https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/05/15/589bull-the-end-of-one-financial-age/

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Thursday Morning 5-15-25

 Al-Sudani: Iraq Is An Oil And Industrial Country That Has The Potential To Export Products To The Region
 
Energy and Business   2025-05-14 Shafaq News/ Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al- Sudani described Iraq on Wednesday  as an "industrial country," not just an oil country, and that
 
it can meet the needs of the local market and countries in the region.

This came in a speech delivered via video link during the inauguration of the steel plant at the General Company for Iron and Steel in Basra Governorate, with a capacity of 600,000 tons annually.
 
He also launched the implementation work for the industrial city in Al-Zubair District, and the Basra Chlorine and Caustic Soda Production Plant Project.  Al-Sudani said in his speech,
 
"Iraq, in addition to being an oil-producing country, is an industrial country
that possesses all the ingredients for the emergence of a national industry that meets the needs of the local market.
 
We have qualified to become a country that exports products to the rest of the countries in the region."      https://shafaq.com/ar/اقتصـاد/السوداني-العراق-بلد-نفطي-و-صناعي-تتوفر-فيه-مقومات-تصدير-المنتجات-الى-المنطقة  

Iraqi Oil Prices Saw A Slight Decline During Today's Trading

economy | 09:20 - 05/14/2025   Mawazine News - Follow-up   Iraqi oil prices recorded a slight decline during daily trading on Wednesday in the global market.

According to data reviewed by Mawazine News, Basra Medium crude oil recorded $65.49 per barrel, while heavy crude recorded $62.34 per barrel, with a change rate of -0.51% for both.

The data also showed a slight increase in global oil prices, with British Brent crude recording $66.25 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude oil recorded $63.34 per barrel, with a change rate of +0.33% for both.   https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=261410

Gold Declines As US-China Trade Tensions Easethings are moving better now

economy | 12:00 - 05/14/2025  Mawazine News - Follow-up:  Gold prices fell on Wednesday, as safe-haven assets declined amid easing trade tensions between the United States and China, while markets awaited a fresh batch of inflation data for clues on the path of the Federal Reserve's monetary policy.

Spot gold fell 0.7% to $3,226.11 per ounce, while U.S. gold futures fell 0.6% to $3,229.50, according to Reuters.

"Positive developments in U.S. trade policy are reducing gold's appeal in the short term," said Kyle Rodda, a financial markets analyst at Capital.com .

"I believe that if progress in trade negotiations and deals between the United States and its trading partners continues, we could see further declines in gold prices. The $3,200 level is a critical support level."

As for other precious metals, spot silver fell 0.8% to $32.61 per ounce, platinum held steady at $988.65, and palladium fell 0.9% to $948.60.  https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=261421

A Slight Rise In The Dollar Price In Baghdad And Erbil

economy | 04:34 - 05/14/2025  Mawazine News - Baghdad -  The exchange rate of the US dollar against the Iraqi dinar witnessed a slight increase in the markets of Baghdad and Erbil on Wednesday.
It rose with the closing of the two main stock exchanges, Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya, in Baghdad, recording 142,500 dinars for every $100, while this morning it recorded 142,350 dinars for every $100.

Selling prices also rose in exchange shops in the local markets in Baghdad, where the selling price reached 143,500 dinars for every $100, while the buying price reached 141,500 dinars for every $100.

In Erbil, the dollar also rose, with the selling price reaching 142,400 dinars for every $100, and the buying price reaching 142,200 dinars for every $100. https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=261434

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Thursday Morning 5-15-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

SENATE REMOVES TRUMP PROVISIONS IN PUSH TO PASS STABLECOIN BILL

The U.S. Senate is preparing to pass a landmark bipartisan stablecoin bill—the GENIUS Act (Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins Act)—after removing controversial provisions that targeted President Donald Trump and his family's crypto ventures.

📅 Target Date for Passage: By May 26 (Memorial Day), according to Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), who spoke at a Coinbase-backed event, Stand With Crypto.

Hello, World!

💬 Key Voices:

• Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) confirmed the bill has been revised to eliminate language singling out Trump’s crypto activities, which include memecoins, a stablecoin project, a mining firm, and a crypto platform.

• “This is not an ethics bill,” Gillibrand said, though it does include basic ethics requirements. “If we were dealing with all President Trump’s ethics problems, it would be a very long and detailed bill.”

🚫 Senate Democrats had stalled the bill on May 8, objecting to its failure to address Trump’s alleged personal enrichment through crypto-related ventures. Gillibrand stated Trump’s memecoin offering may already violate existing laws, calling it “about as illegal as it gets.”

🏛️ Bill Focus: Regulation of the entire stablecoin ecosystem, with strengthened protections for:

• Consumers

• Bankruptcy proceedings

• Issuers’ responsibilities

👥 Industry Push: Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, who joined the senators onstage, refrained from commenting on Trump’s memecoin but emphasized the need to keep the bill focused on regulatory clarity.

🗳️ Legislative Urgency:

• With the 2026 midterms approaching, the crypto industry is lobbying hard to pass both the GENIUS Act and a broader market structure bill before momentum is lost.

• Marta Belcher of the Blockchain Association warned the legislative window is closing fast. “We don't know if we’ll get another chance like this.”

📌 August Deadline: The goal is to have both bills signed into law before the August congressional recess, according to Bo Hines, Executive Director of the Presidential Council of Advisers for Digital Assets. Hines noted it's “the President's desire” to finalize both crypto-related bills during that timeframe.

@ Newshounds News™
🔗 Full Article: Cointelegraph – May 14, 2025

~~~~~~~~~

BRICS ERODES TRUST IN THE US DOLLAR

The BRICS alliance is accelerating a global shift away from the US dollar, encouraging developing nations to embrace local currencies for trade and economic stability.

🌍 Background:
The U.S. sanctions imposed on Russia in 2022 served as a wake-up call for emerging economies. The move exposed the vulnerabilities of nations that relied too heavily on the dollar and underscored Washington’s ability to destabilize other countries’ economies.

🛡️ Response from BRICS:
In response, BRICS members began to rethink their dependency on the dollar and initiated steps to strengthen their native currencies. The bloc—comprising major developing nations—has since made de-dollarization a central pillar of its long-term strategy.

💸 Erosion of Trust in the Dollar:
The U.S. dollar has historically dominated global trade because of widespread trust. But BRICS nations now view the greenback as a geopolitical weapon that serves U.S. interests at the expense of others. That trust is rapidly deteriorating, and so is the dollar’s role in international trade.

📉 Trend Watch:

• The dominance of the dollar is no longer guaranteed.

• Local currencies are being positioned as more stable and sovereign alternatives.

• BRICS is encouraging member states to settle trades in native currencies, reducing exposure to U.S. monetary policy and potential sanctions.

🔁 What’s Next:
As the economic influence of BRICS grows, so does its ambition to reshape the global financial order. If successful, this movement could drastically reduce U.S. influence in international trade and global finance.

📌 Key Quote:

"The U.S. dollar’s supremacy stood on trust for decades—but that trust is now eroding."

@ Newshounds News™
🔗 Full Article: Watcher Guru – May 14, 2025

~~~~~~~~~

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