News, Rumors and Opinions Sunday PM 6-15-2025

KTFA:

Clare:  Iraq maintains its global ranking in natural resources

6/15/2025

Iraq ranked ninth globally among the best natural resources, according to Visual Capitalist, a company that focuses on topics including markets, technology, and energy.

In a report seen by Shafaq News Agency, the company stated that natural resources form the backbone of modern manufacturing and are essential to the production of everything around us.

She added that 10 countries, including Iraq, dominate the global natural resources landscape, each holding vast reserves important for various industries.

The report indicated that Iraq ranked ninth among the world's countries in terms of the availability of natural resources, estimated at $16 trillion, which include oil and phosphate rocks.

Globally, according to the company, Russia leads the world in natural resources, with an estimated value of $75 trillion, including coal, natural gas, oil, gold, timber, and rare earth minerals. The United States is second, with a value of $45 trillion, including coal, timber, natural gas, gold, and copper.

She continued, "Saudi Arabia came in third with a value of $34 trillion, which includes oil and timber, followed by Canada in fourth place with a value of $33 trillion, which includes oil, uranium, timber, natural gas, and phosphates, followed by Iran in fifth place with a value of $27 trillion, which includes oil and natural gas."

The company noted in its report that China came in sixth place with a value of $23 trillion, which includes coal, rare earth minerals, and timber. Brazil came in seventh place with a value of $22 trillion, which includes gold, uranium, iron, timber, and oil.

She continued, "Australia came in eighth place with a value of $20 trillion, which includes coal, timber, copper, iron ore, gold, and uranium. Iraq came in ninth place, and Venezuela came in tenth place with a value of $14 trillion, which includes iron, natural gas, and oil."

Iraq was ranked among the top ten countries with the most valuable natural resource reserves, in terms of the total estimated value over the past four years.

According to a 2024 Statista report, natural resources are the raw inputs used to make everything we use, from intermediate goods to final products. These resources are found in the ground among reserves that have not yet been extracted.

According to Statista estimates, Russia ranked first, with its natural resource reserves estimated at $75 trillion. This amount includes coal, oil, natural gas, gold, timber, and rare earth minerals.

The United States came in second, with an estimated value of $45 trillion in natural resources, nearly 90% of which is timber and coal.

Iraq ranked ninth, boasting $15.9 trillion in natural resources. Its desert terrain contains oil, natural gas, phosphates, and sulfur, according to the website.

Iraq is OPEC's second-largest producer of crude oil and the world's fifth-largest producer of proven crude oil reserves. Iraq relies on crude oil exports for a significant portion of its revenue.   LINK

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

Clare:  Prime Minister's Advisor: Iraq is qualified to become a regional financial center with four strategic powers.

 6/15/2025 Baghdad - Nassar Al-Hajj

The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, identified four factors that make Iraq a regional financial center on Sunday, stressing that Iraq possesses foreign reserves exceeding $100 billion.

“There are four elements of strength that make Iraq a regional financial center, the first of which is that it is the second largest producer of crude oil in the Middle East, and it has the fourth largest oil reserves in the world, through which it competes to take precedence in the global energy market, through more production and achieving financial flows that make it a financial and economic pillar in the economic geography of the Middle East, by achieving large financial surpluses that can be directed to investment in financial infrastructure,” Saleh told the Iraqi News Agency (INA).

He stated that "Iraq has foreign reserves exceeding $100 billion, which provides it with a significant financial safety margin, confidence in monetary stability, and high financial investment attractiveness."

He added, "The second factor is Iraq's unique geoeconomic location, which is a vital corridor linking the world's north to its south. This represents an open economic space between global markets and their financial and commercial attractions, with links that provide important climates for the concentration of regional financial markets, which will revolve around the strategy of the 'development project' linking Europe and the Gulf."

He continued: "The third factor is the demographic or human factor, and its foundation is the population boom, as the percentage of the population under the age of thirty is close, which makes Iraq one of the young nations. The high percentage of youth (more than 60% under the age of thirty) will provide a flexible human base that can be trained in financial technology, banking innovation, digital technology, and artificial intelligence." He noted that "the government is undertaking the establishment of an important college for artificial intelligence sciences as inputs to the financial labor market and its foundations."

He added, "The fourth factor is modernizing and restructuring governance in government-owned banks, given that they currently control 80% or more of banking activity." He emphasized that "the reform campaign being led by the government today for the aforementioned banks aims to transform Iraq into a global financial center after ridding it of the risks of bureaucracy and inefficiency inherited over many decades."

He pointed out "the importance of electronic payments and the gradual expansion of the use of bank cards, point-of-sale (POS), collection systems, and smart wallets, which have helped achieve significant leaps in digital financial inclusion. This is coupled with the presence of the Iraq Stock Exchange and the Securities Commission, which operate in a robust, integrated, and promising manner as an infrastructure to establish Iraq as a regional hub for consolidating the country's institutional financial stability."

He explained that "the legal, executive, and regulatory infrastructure requirements are the key lever for enabling this transformation. These include, for example, linking banks to effective electronic payment platforms and supporting the development of the current National Data Center to serve as the sovereign digital financial infrastructure that supports Iraq's efforts to transform into a regional financial center."

He pointed out that "Iraq's transformation into a regional financial center will be achieved through the collection and integration of financial, banking, and economic data, supporting smart monetary and financial policies, enabling financial technology and smart data analysis, enhancing transparency and governance of financial institutions, stimulating the non-banking finance sector, such as microfinance companies, reforming the insurance sector, and licensing financial technology ( Fintech ) companies."

He pointed out that "the current political, legal, and institutional stability that our country enjoys today, in a prosperous and solid manner, is the true basis for financial strength. There is no financial center without a stable and secure political and legal environment."

Saleh emphasized the importance of building regional and international partnerships, such as studying the importance of joining regional payment systems and financial structures of international groups such as the G20 or BRICS, or partnerships with strong financial centers in Singapore, Dubai, Hong Kong, and others.   LINK

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

Militia Man  Just because Iraq looks ready, sounds ready, is ready, does the IMF, World Bank, US Treasury, Bank of International Settlements feel they're ready? ...It's about Iraq but it's not all about Iraq...It isn't just Iraq pushing the button.  It's going to have to be something to the effect of that inter-connectivity I've been talking about.  They need to be allowed to be able to do that...Bottom line is what we see with all the things collectively to this date shows Iraq is ready...A lot of pressure on everybody to make sure they get it right.

Bruce   [via WiserNow]  ...the indicator is that things regarding the RV are moving forward for us...the most recent information for us is saying that we will get notified, quite possibly Monday and begin exchanges on Tuesday... I believe that could very well be the case...we know that redemption center personnel are going in Monday...exchanging Lord willing on Tuesday... that's what it's pointing to, because this is coming up to where this needs to go.

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

What's Behind The Gold (+ Silver + Platinum) Bull? | Michael Pento

Liberty and Finance:  6-15-2025

The labor market is cracking, says portfolio manager Michael Pento . While there is superficial optimism based on tariff deals, the foundations of the economy are cratering. And partly due to high energy costs, there is likely no relief coming for high prices.

"The level of inflation has destroyed the middle class," he argues. While central banks have been accumulating hard assets like gold, the movements in Bitcoin show that the common man is moving into precious metals.

 "People are dying for another alternative to the U.S. dollar," he says. He is bullish on gold, platinum, and potentially silver as demand for hard assets outside the manipulated financial system increases.

INTERVIEW TIMELINE:

 0:00 Intro

1:40 Macro outlook

14:25 Gold, silver & platinum

25:08 Central banks buying gold

 26:15 Market crash

 29:10 Pento's relocation

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

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Sunday Afternoon 6-15-25

Currency Market: Dollar Exchange Rates Drop In Local Markets Today

Buratha News Agency1942025-06-15   The dollar exchange rate fell on the Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya stock exchanges, recording 14.4400 Iraqi dinars for every $100. On Saturday morning, it reached 145,000 dinars for every $100. Selling prices in the local exchange markets in Baghdad declined, with the selling price reaching 145,500 Iraqi dinars for every $100, and the buying price reaching 143,500 dinars for every $100.   https://burathanews.com/arabic/economic/461443

The US reduced its oil imports from Iraq last week.
Sunday, June 15, 2025 | Economic Number of reads: 326   Baghdad / NINA / The US Energy Information Administration announced on Sunday that the United States reduced its oil imports from Iraq during the past week, while it did not import any quantities from Saudi Arabia and Libya.

The administration stated in a table that "the average US imports of crude oil during the past week from 8 major countries amounted to 5.456 million barrels per day, a decrease of 35 thousand barrels per day compared to the previous week, which amounted to 5.491 million barrels per day."

It added that "the average of Iraq's oil exports to America amounted to 84 thousand barrels per day, a decrease of 130 thousand barrels per day compared to the previous week, which amounted to 214 thousand barrels per day."

The administration indicated that "the largest oil revenues to America during the past week came from Canada, followed by Mexico, Brazil, Ecuador, and then Nigeria."

According to the table, "the amount of US imports of crude oil continued from Venezuela and Colombia, while it did not import any quantities from Saudi Arabia or Libya." / End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1234518

Iraq Is Among The Top 10 Countries In The World In Terms Of Natural Resources.

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad   Iraq ranked ninth globally among the best natural resources, according to Visual Capitalist, a company that focuses on topics including markets, technology, and energy.

In a report seen by Shafaq News Agency, the company stated that natural resources form the backbone of modern manufacturing and are essential to the production of everything around us.

She added that 10 countries, including Iraq, dominate the global natural resources landscape, each holding vast reserves important for various industries.

The report indicated that Iraq ranked ninth among the world's countries in terms of the availability of natural resources, estimated at $16 trillion, which include oil and phosphate rocks.

Globally, according to the company, Russia leads the world in natural resources, with an estimated value of $75 trillion, including coal, natural gas, oil, gold, timber, and rare earth minerals. The United States is second, with a value of $45 trillion, including coal, timber, natural gas, gold, and copper.

She continued, "Saudi Arabia came in third with a value of $34 trillion, which includes oil and timber, followed by Canada in fourth place with a value of $33 trillion, which includes oil, uranium, timber, natural gas, and phosphates, followed by Iran in fifth place with a value of $27 trillion, which includes oil and natural gas."

The company noted in its report that China came in sixth place with a value of $23 trillion, which includes coal, rare earth minerals, and timber. Brazil came in seventh place with a value of $22 trillion, which includes gold, uranium, iron, timber, and oil.

She continued, "Australia came in eighth place with a value of $20 trillion, which includes coal, timber, copper, iron ore, gold, and uranium. Iraq came in ninth place, and Venezuela came in tenth place with a value of $14 trillion, which includes iron, natural gas, and oil."

Iraq was ranked among the top ten countries with the most valuable natural resource reserves, in terms of the total estimated value over the past four years.

According to a 2024 Statista report, natural resources are the raw inputs used to make everything we use, from intermediate goods to final products. These resources are found in the ground among reserves that have not yet been extracted.

According to Statista estimates, Russia ranked first, with its natural resource reserves estimated at $75 trillion. This amount includes coal, oil, natural gas, gold, timber, and rare earth minerals.

The United States came in second, with an estimated value of $45 trillion in natural resources, nearly 90% of which is timber and coal.

Iraq ranked ninth, boasting $15.9 trillion in natural resources. Its desert terrain contains oil, natural gas, phosphates, and sulfur, according to the website.

Iraq is OPEC's second-largest producer of crude oil and the world's fifth-largest producer of proven crude oil reserves. Iraq relies on crude oil exports for a significant portion of its revenue. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=56300

Gold Prices Rise In Iraq

Economy | 01:58 - 06/15/2025  Mawazine News - Baghdad -  Gold prices witnessed a rise in local markets on Sunday.  The price of a 21-karat gold mithqal reached 695,000 dinars, while the price of an 18-karat gold mithqal reached 595,000 dinars, the price of a 22-karat gold mithqal reached 728,000 dinars, and finally the price of a 24-karat gold mithqal reached 795,000 dinars.
https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=262609

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

7 Things You Should Never Pay For With Cash

7 Things You Should Never Pay For With Cash

Jennifer Taylor 

Some people charge everything to a credit card to rack up rewards points, but that isn’t your style. When possible, you prefer to pay with cash. Maybe you’ve ditched the plastic as a way to curb overspending, avoid credit card fraud or simply because you prefer to shop off the grid. However, despite the many good reasons to pay with cash, it isn’t always the best choice.

Not sure what types of purchases warrant leaving the cash in your wallet? Here’s a look at seven common payments that should always be made with a different form other than cash.

Rent

Writing a check can be a hassle, so if you don’t have the option to pay your rent online, you might opt for cash. However, William Capece, CFP, director of business development at the JS Benefits Group, said doing so is unwise, because it leaves you without a paper trail.

“Too often we hear stories of landlords who evict tenants over unpaid rent, while the tenant swears to have paid,” he said. “Cash leaves no paper trail and thus no proof.” On the flip side, he said landlords should also never accept cash payments for the same reason. “This should be outlined in the renter agreement,” he said.

Car

Since interest rates are at historic lows, Capece advised against buying a car with all cash. “Utilizing a car loan helps in many ways,” he said. “Dealers make more money when customers utilize debt, so they are more likely to give you a better deal.”

Beyond that, he said paying for such a large purchase in cash limits your ability to invest. If you can swing it, he recommended financing your car purchase and using the cash as the down payment on a rental property. “Use an appreciating asset to pay for your lifestyle,” he said.

Home Maintenance and Updates

If you own your home, you likely spend at least some money on upkeep each year. Capece said it’s important to have a paper trail for these expenses, so you don’t forget about them when it’s time to do your taxes. “Those expenses could be added to the cost basis of the home or as a write-off against income,” he said.

He recommended consulting with a tax professional for specifics on your unique situation.

Utilities and Other Recurring Bills

TO READ MORE: https://news.yahoo.com/7-things-never-pay-cash-120012133.html

News, Rumors and Opinions Sunday 6-15-2025

Gold Telegraph: Gold is Definitely a Part of our Future

June 15, 2025

BREAKING NEWS: IRANIAN LAWMAKER SAYS CLOSURE OF KEY STRAIT OF HORMUZ UNDER CONSIDERATION

Wow.

The Strait of Hormuz moves 26% of the world’s oil. With everything going on today… Anyone watching energy markets should keep a close eye on this chokepoint.

“Iran is considering blocking the Hormuz Strait in the Persian Gulf, which sees more than 17 million barrels of oil pass through it every day…”

Source: https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/iran-mulls-blocking-strait-of-hormuz-after-israeli-attacks-says-lawmaker/3598363

I have spent over a decade calling out economists because they rewrite the rules every time reality taps them on the shoulder. When problems bubble to the surface. They fade away into the dark.

The leader of the central bank in Greece said last week: “Nobody is happy about what’s going on in economic policy and trade policy in the US, but if it continues, I’m afraid the dollar will lose some of its status.” It is a new world…

When trust evaporates, gold reappears:

President Nixon “temporarily” suspended the gold standard in 1971 because the U.S. couldn’t cover foreign dollar claims. Today, The U.S. holds just over $800 billion in gold, which has NOT been audited, but owes over $7 trillion to foreign creditors. Just think about this for a second.

Sometimes, I think about the term ‘gold bug’ and how people mocked anyone serious about gold as crazy. Now, it’s the world’s second-largest reserve asset and a key piece on the geopolitical chessboard.

Today, with everything unfolding, it’s almost reckless not to pay attention to gold. The lesson… The things power mocks are usually the ones that threaten it most.

I have posted this before, but it’s worth highlighting again.

This is a gold ATM in China. It melts the gold and transfers the amount corresponding to its weight to your bank account. The future is calling.

https://twitter.com/i/status/1933995656118779984

“It’s either print money or don’t. It’s either rates down to zero or not. That’s how desperate we are now. I see bazooka money before I see a reset. I see massive fiscal spending, etc. Gold is definitely a part of the future.” — Matthew Piepenburg

Much has changed since my conversation with Matt. Gold is back near record highs as debt warnings grow louder and geopolitical crises spin further out of control.

https://twitter.com/i/status/1934032141689762263

https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/06/15/gold-telegraph-gold-is-definitely-a-part-of-our-future/

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

Frank26   Notice even in the midst of all this military action with Iran next to you [Iraq], Saleh who is in charge of the Iraqi finances comes out first thing this morning and tells you,  'We are secure and stable.'  What was it that we needed in order for you to have a new exchange rate with lower note currency?  ...Security and stability...

Mnt Goat   I try to bring you the progress of the monetary reforms, mostly following the plan to get back to FOREX...This is a huge effort for Iraq as it is right in the middle of a very volatile area of the world right now...Unfortunately, Iraq is a centuries old, major trading partner with Iran. So, I hope now you can see the uphill challenge facing Iraq when the U.S. wants to sanction Iran. It is hard to do. This RV plan we watch is the Dr Shabibi’s plan from 2011. I am told the plan is still in effect and moving ahead...This to me was “WOW!” news.

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

US Economic Crash: $9 Trillion in Bond Maturities Trigger MASSIVE Defaults By September| L. McDonald

Lena Petrova:  6-14-2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFtCC-GGRhU

Iraq to Become a Massive Success- Iraqi Dinar Banking Reform- Verifiable News

Iraq to Become a Massive Success- Iraqi Dinar Banking Reform- Verifiable News

Edu Matrix:  6-15-2025

Discover how enhanced stability is generating excitement among international investors and paving the way for new opportunities across various sectors!

We’ll explore Iraq's broader economic reforms under Prime Minister al-Sudani, highlighting initiatives such as the Iraq Development Road and the Grand Faw Port, which are poised to position the nation as a regional trade hub.

 Iraq is on the brink of a financial revolution with a major overhaul of its banking sector!

 This transformative initiative aims to modernize financial institutions, attract foreign investments, and reestablish global ties.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qS-clGdv2ZY

Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Sunday Morning 6-15-25

Mazhar Saleh: The Government's Hypermarket Strategy Has Enhanced Market Stability And Reduced Inflation.

Time: 2025/06/14 12:02:55 Read: 1,080 times  {Economic: Al Furat News} The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, confirmed today, Saturday, that the government's trade policy, after adopting the semi-cooperative markets (hypermarkets) strategy, has represented an important development in the price defense policy against financing trade from the parallel exchange market currency, and has created sustainable and stable competitiveness in the pricing system.

Saleh explained in an interview with Al Furat News Agency, "This effective trade policy has led to the regularity and stability of the national market, particularly in the stability of the consumer price index, which is one of the pillars of measuring inflation in the country."

He pointed out that "the country is experiencing a significant decline in its annual inflation rate, coinciding with the approaching completion of the first half of this prosperous year."  LINK

Al-Sudani Affirms The Government's Support For Anyone Who Offers A National Industry With High Technology And Distinguished Specifications

Saturday, June 14, 2025, | Economic Number of reads: 280  Baghdad / NINA / Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani affirmed the government's support for anyone who offers a national industry with high technology and distinguished specifications.

The Prime Minister's media office said in a statement: "Al-Sudani inaugurated today the Al-Alamiya factory for the production of medical and industrial gases, one of the private sector projects in Baghdad.

Al-Sudani toured the factory's departments, which is the first of its kind in Iraq, in terms of integrated production lines and operational energy efficiency, praising the efforts of the workers in this important industrial project.

Al-Sudani stressed that there are many projects in the governorates that need industrial gases, especially iron factories in Karbala, Basra, Salah al-Din, and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq."

He pointed to the government's support for the industrial sector in general, and for businessmen and industrialists in the private sector, and anyone who offers an achievement similar to this factory.

The Prime Minister stressed the support and provision of facilities for anyone who offers industry with high technology and distinguished specifications, pointing out the government's keenness to provide land for large industrial projects, which would open the door to important Iraqi industries that support the economy.

The factory was built on an area of ​​​​10 dunams at a cost of $ 32 million, and includes the tallest industrial tower in Iraq with a height of 69 meters, and its daily storage capacity is (1,250) tons of various products, while the production capacity of medical and industrial gases is (727,200) thousand tons annually, as nitrogen, argon, medical and industrial oxygen, and medical, industrial and food carbon dioxide will be produced.

The factory will meet about 80% of the needs of the Iraqi market for industrial and medical gases, and in the second phase, coverage and export will be completed. /End https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1234371

The Dollar Price Fell In Local Markets With The Closing Of The Stock Exchange.

Saturday, June 14, 2025, | Economic Number of reads: 291   Baghdad / NINA / The dollar exchange rates decreased in the markets of Baghdad and Erbil, with the closing of the stock exchange, on Saturday evening.

The dollar exchange rate recorded a decline with the closing of the Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya stock exchanges in Baghdad, reaching 144,150 dinars for $100, after it had reached 145,000 dinars for $100 this morning.

The selling price also decreased in exchange shops in the local markets in Baghdad, reaching 145,250 dinars for $100, while the purchase price reached 143,250 dinars for $100.

In Erbil, prices also decreased, as the selling price reached 144,800 dinars for every $100, and the purchase price 144,500 dinars for every $100. https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1234357

Iraqi Oil Prices Jump On Global Markets

Economy | 06/13/2025   Mawazine News - Baghdad - Iraqi oil prices rose on Friday during daily trading in the global market.

According to data reviewed by Mawazine News, Basra Medium crude oil recorded $68.44 per barrel, while Heavy crude oil recorded $65.64 per barrel, with a change of +2.08 for both.

The data also showed global oil prices, with British Brent crude recording $74.37 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude oil recorded $73.28 per barrel, with a change of +5.01 and +5.24, respectively.   https://www.mawazin.net/Details.aspx?jimare=262479

Gold Prices Rise In Baghdad And Erbil

Saturday, June 14, 2025, | Economic Number of reads: 361  Baghdad / NINA / The prices of "foreign and Iraqi" gold witnessed a significant increase in the local markets in the capital, Baghdad, and Erbil, on Saturday morning.

The selling price of one mithqal of 21-karat Gulf, Turkish, and European gold in the wholesale markets on Al-Nahr Street in Baghdad, this morning, reached 700,000 dinars, while the purchase price reached 696,000 dinars.

The selling price of one mithqal of 21-karat Iraqi gold reached 670,000 dinars, while the purchase price reached 666,000 dinars.

As for gold prices in jewelry stores, the selling price of one mithqal of 21-karat Gulf gold ranged between 700,000 and 800,000 dinars, while the selling price of one mithqal of Iraqi gold ranged between 670,000 and 680,000 dinars.

In Erbil, the selling price of a mithqal of 22-karat gold reached about 736,000 dinars, and 21-karat gold reached 703,000 dinars, while 18-karat gold recorded about 602,000 dinars per mithqal. / https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1234299

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

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Sunday Morning 6-15-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Israel–Iran Conflict Could Trigger Economic Maelstrom Affecting Millions
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran threatens to severely disrupt global markets and may cascade into a broader geopolitical and economic crisis. At the heart of this threat lies the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil flows, which Iran is considering closing in response to Israeli military actions.

Iran–Israel Conflict Might Upend the World’s Oil Markets

Geopolitical tensions are once again shaking world markets. The confrontation between Iran and Israel, if escalated further, could drastically impact global oil supply, sending prices soaring and reviving oil’s title as “black gold.”

▪️ The Strait of Hormuz, gateway from the Persian Gulf, handles 20% of the world’s oil exports
▪️ Iran is threatening to close the strait in retaliation for Israeli military strikes
▪️ A closure would represent a global energy shock with vast ripple effects on industry and supply chains

According to reports, Sardar Esmail Kowsari, Commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, has declared that Iran would make “the best decision with determination” regarding the potential closure of the Strait.

Security analyst Claude Moniquet warned that this move would be “a disaster for Europe,” impacting energy markets across the globe. A 20% reduction in global oil flow could spark:

• A massive spike in oil prices

• Disruptions to global supply chains

• Industrial slowdowns in Europe and Asia

Oil Already Reacting as Risk Mounts

The markets are already pricing in these geopolitical risks. Since the early bombings:

▪️ Oil futures have surged past $70, reaching as high as $77
▪️ Volatility is expected to increase as conflict risk grows
▪️ Crude oil prices could skyrocket if military escalation shuts down transport routes

The possibility of regional expansion—as other nations act to counterbalance the fallout of a closure—could magnify the economic turmoil, potentially triggering a global recession.

A Global Flashpoint with Far-Reaching Consequences

The ultimate outcome hinges on:

• Iran’s willingness to escalate

• Its military capacity to block the Strait of Hormuz

• The international community’s response to preserve oil flows

While nothing is certain, the risk of an economic chain reaction is substantial. Even short-term disruptions in Hormuz could cause multi-billion-dollar losses, especially in energy-dependent industries.

Bottom Line: The world watches closely as a regional military conflict risks morphing into a global economic crisis. A single act—like the closure of a vital oil corridor—could send shockwaves through financial markets, energy infrastructure, and geopolitical alliances.

@ Newshounds News™
  Source: Bitcoin.com

~~~~~~~~~

Vietnam Legalizes Crypto Under New Digital Technology Law

Vietnam has officially legalized crypto assets with the passing of a landmark digital technology law. The legislation, passed by the National Assembly on June 14, brings crypto under regulatory oversight for the first time and positions the country as a rising digital innovation hub.

Vietnam Passes Sweeping Law to Recognize Crypto and Promote Tech

Effective January 1, 2026, the new Law on Digital Technology Industry marks a turning point for Vietnam’s treatment of digital assets and emerging technologies.

▪️ The law recognizes crypto assets, creating a regulatory framework for their use
▪️ It categorizes digital assets into virtual assets and crypto assets, excluding securities, digital fiat, or other financial products
▪️ The Vietnamese government will define business conditions, classifications, and oversight for each type

The legislation also includes provisions for cybersecurity and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance, designed to align with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards. Vietnam has been on the FATF gray list since 2023, making this a likely strategic move toward regulatory rehabilitation.

A Strategic Play for Tech Leadership in Asia

Vietnam is not stopping at crypto. The law introduces comprehensive incentives to attract global tech players in sectors like:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Semiconductor development

• Digital infrastructure (e.g., chip design and AI data centers)

The government will provide:

▪️ Tax incentives and land-use benefits
▪️ Research and development (R&D) support
▪️ Workforce training subsidies
▪️ Integration of digital skills in national education policies

 “With this move, Viet Nam has become the first country in the world to enact a standalone law specifically dedicated to the digital technology industry,” the government said.

Crypto Scams Continue Despite Regulatory Progress

Even as Vietnam steps into legal crypto territory, enforcement challenges remain.

▪️ In February 2025, police shut down BitMiner, a fake mining scheme posing as a Dubai-based platform. It defrauded over 200 victims of $157,300 through bogus mining packages.

▪️ In December 2024, Hanoi police stopped 300 potential victims from investing in Million Smiles, a scam promoting a fake token (QFS) linked to spiritual myths. The fraud had already stolen $1.17 million from over 100 businesses and 400 individuals.

Bottom Line: Vietnam’s bold move to legalize crypto and incentivize high-tech industries places it at the forefront of digital transformation in Southeast Asia. While challenges like fraud remain, the new law signals a major step toward modernization, international integration, and long-term tech leadership.

@ Newshounds News™
  Source: Cointelegraph

~~~~~~~~~

Vietnam Joins BRICS as 10th Partner in Push for Stronger Global South Ties

Vietnam’s entry into the BRICS framework marks a major milestone in the bloc’s rise as a global power center. The move expands BRICS’ partner network to 10 nations, reinforcing its drive to reshape the global economic and governance architecture in favor of the Global South.

BRICS Welcomes Vietnam as 10th Partner

Brazil, which currently chairs BRICS, announced on June 13 that Vietnam has joined as the 10th official BRICS partner country. This decision follows the structure laid out at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan (October 2024), where the “partner-country” framework was introduced to allow strategic cooperation with aligned nations outside of full membership.

▪️ “The government of Brazil welcomes the decision of the Vietnamese government.”
▪️ Vietnam joins other partner nations: Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan

The current full BRICS membership includes:
Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran

Vietnam’s involvement illustrates deepening ties with the Global South, emphasizing cooperation in:

• Economic development

• Multilateral governance reform

• Political and diplomatic coordination

Strategic Weight: Vietnam’s Role in BRICS Vision

Vietnam’s entry into BRICS reflects its increasing geopolitical and economic influence. Brazil highlighted this explicitly:

“With a population of almost 100 million and a dynamic economy deeply integrated into global value chains, Vietnam stands out as a relevant actor in Asia.”

Supporters of BRICS expansion say Vietnam contributes:

▪️ Economic scale and growth momentum
▪️ Innovation capacity across digital and industrial sectors
▪️ Strategic geographical positioning in Southeast Asia

While some critics argue that enlarging the bloc could strain policy coordination, advocates maintain that diverse perspectives like Vietnam’s can strengthen BRICS’ global relevance and diplomatic agility.

Bottom Line: Vietnam’s inclusion as a BRICS partner signals a consolidating shift in global power dynamics, boosting South-South cooperation and reinforcing a move toward a multipolar world order. As BRICS expands, the bloc’s ability to influence economic and governance norms continues to rise.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Bitcoin.com

~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

Follow the Roadmap

Follow the Timeline 

Seeds of Wisdom Team™ Website

Thank you Dinar Recaps

“Tidbits From TNT” Sunday Morning 6-15-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  Iraq's trade with Iran is again confusing the dollar. Hantoush warns of a tight spot! 

Economic expert Mustafa Hantoush confirmed that Iraq still has significant trade with Iran that is not covered by the official price, leading to continued pressure on the parallel market.

In a statement to Jarida Platform , Hantoush stated that “millions of travelers to Iran are also contributing to increased pressure on the parallel market. With the improvement of the Iranian currency thanks to negotiations with the United States and the reduction of remittances, this pressure has eased somewhat.”

He explained that “the Central Bank’s step to increase the limits on some cards has partially contributed to the solution, but the worsening situation and the return of remittances may push the parallel exchange rate up again.”

He added, "Iraq is now required to adopt new monetary policies to manage trade with Iran and passenger traffic. The solution may be through a tripartite account or a gold barter, as some countries in the region are doing, to extricate Iraq from this tight spot."  link

Tishwash:  An economic expert told Al-Jarida Platform: The exchange rate is hostage to the political mood and regional shifts.

Economist Ahmed Hadhal spoke about the sensitivity of the dollar issue in Iraq and its direct impact on geopolitical and geoeconomic changes, emphasizing that the issue has become extremely complex internally and externally.

In an interview with Jarida Platform, Hathal stated that “since the end of 2022, and with the launch of the platform, the Central Bank has exhausted all monetary policy tools to address the gap between the parallel rate and the official rate. However, the problem is complex and does not only relate to the bank but also to the domestic market.” He explained that “60% of traders are still outside the platform, in addition to the lack of borders, which further complicates the crisis.”

He added that "the decline in the dollar's value coincided with the failure to approve the general budget and the instability of some foreign negotiations. The exchange rate is linked to economic, political, and media factors, and is a highly sensitive indicator of any crisis, statement, or event." He noted that "exchange rate fluctuations directly impact the purchasing power of citizens, merchants, companies, industrialists, importers, and even foreign investors."

Hedhal explained that "the loss of trust between society and the government is one of the most significant factors driving demand for the dollar as a more stable and valuable currency, especially given the lack of real production within Iraq.

 Oil production constitutes more than 70% of the GDP, and the general budget constitutes 190% of this GDP. These indicators raise concerns among citizens and investors about the possibility of a decline in the value of the dinar."

He concluded by saying, "The exchange rate issue is linked to the psychological factors of citizens and investors, and there is a close relationship between behavioral economics and traditional economics, which makes currency stability necessitating addressing confidence in monetary and fiscal policies, ensuring their stability, and preventing sudden changes."  link

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

Tishwash:  Oil rises, the dinar falls, and Baghdad faces the ramifications of Israeli-Iranian missiles.

 Although it is outside the immediate circle of conflict, Iraq appears to be in the eye of the storm. Its geographical location, its near-total dependence on oil, and the peg of its economy to the dollar exchange rate make it vulnerable to every geopolitical shock in the region. While Israel and Iran exchange airstrikes and inflammatory statements, the Iraqi market translates these fires into tangible crises: rising food prices, a volatile dollar, and fears of a slowdown in the flow of goods through ports and borders.

As Israeli airstrikes on Iran escalated, the Iraqi dinar began to slide. This decline is not merely a technical result of changes in the currency markets; it is an expression of general panic and deep concern about political and security repercussions that Iraq may not be able to contain. Dealing with the US dollar is no longer just an economic issue; it has also become highly politically sensitive, especially with the US Treasury Department's strict oversight of transfer and financing mechanisms within Iraq.

On Friday, following the unprecedented Israeli airstrikes on Iranian facilities, oil prices jumped nearly 5%, while the Iraqi dinar fell dramatically against the dollar, exceeding 146,000 dinars to $100 in some local markets, its lowest level in months.

Meanwhile, global oil markets are experiencing significant turmoil, with JP Morgan warning that oil prices could rise to $120 per barrel if geopolitical tensions in the Middle East escalate further.

Global oil prices rose, with Brent crude closing at $74.23, up 4.87%, while US crude also closed at $72.98, up 4.94%.

The dinar is the first to be affected

"What's happening in Tehran is directly felt in the markets of Rusafa and Karkh," says Ahmed Eid, an economic researcher, referring to the close relationship between regional stability and the status of the local currency.

"The sudden rise in the dollar price reflects a real state of panic, not only about the developments in the conflict, but also about its potential financial repercussions, especially if the United States resorts to tightening controls on transfers from the US Federal Reserve or imposing new banking restrictions," he added in an interview with Shafaq News.

Eid warns that the continued smuggling of dollars from Iraq to Iran is fueling monetary instability, saying, "The Iraqi economy is dependent on external balance. We don't produce; we buy everything from abroad, and with every tremor in the region, we are the first to suffer."

Black gold: a temporary gain or an impending disaster?

At first glance, high oil prices appear to be an opportunity to boost Iraq's treasury, especially given that more than 90% of its budget relies on crude oil revenues. However, recurring threats to energy corridors, most notably the Strait of Hormuz, reveal the fragility of this "profit." Every additional barrel sold today may not find a safe route tomorrow. Worse still, proposed alternatives, such as the Turkish Ceyhan pipeline, provide only partial coverage, amid ongoing logistical and political challenges.

"This short-term profit does not hide the real danger," says economic expert Safwan Qusay.

"Any threat to the Strait of Hormuz would mean that more than 3 million barrels of Iraqi oil per day would be at risk," Qusay says. "Even if the Turkish Ceyhan pipeline were activated as an alternative route, it would cover only a third of exports, with burdensome logistical costs requiring thousands of trucks."

Approximately one-fifth of the world's oil trade—between 18 and 19 million barrels per day—passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Any military escalation affecting this vital artery would mean not only an Iraqi oil crisis, but also enormous pressure on prices and cash flows.

The indirect repercussions, however, appear more vague. The suspension of flights, the complexity of supply chains, and the potential displacement of Iranians or the return of Iraqi students and workers from Iran all add a new burden to the Iraqi state.

Financial expert Mahmoud Dagher told Shafaq News Agency that Iraq is still in the "economic resilience" phase, benefiting from high oil prices, but the door is open to more severe possibilities.

"The worst scenario is the closure of the straits, whether in the Arabian Gulf or the Red Sea, a card that Tehran or its allies in Yemen could play," Dagher says, adding that "this would be an uncontainable blow, not only to the Baghdad government, but to the entire Middle Eastern economy."

Iraq does not appear to have sufficient room for maneuver in this crisis. Between its near-total dependence on oil, weak domestic production, and the import of most basic commodities, any regional unrest becomes a daily matter for Iraqi citizens. As the crisis between Israel and Iran continues, attention is turning not only to the military fronts but also to the markets of Baghdad, where currencies, commodities, and fear determine the fate of millions.

In the absence of a real local production structure, the Iraqi economy is becoming something of a vehicle, completely linked to the regional locomotive.  link

Mot:  .. Ya Knows!! -- Retirement is Sumthun Else!!! 

Mot:  UH OH!! -- Moms Gone and Daddys in Charge!!!  

THE $2.00 BILL I TRIED TO SPEND

TNT:

Mot: When was the last time you saw a $2.00 bill? I can picture this happening

THE $2.00 BILL I TRIED TO SPEND:

IF YOU'RE AS OLD AS I AM, THIS IS A RIOT!

Everyone should start carrying $2 bills! I'm STILL laughing!!

I think we need to quit saving our $2 bills and bring them out in public. The younger generation doesn't even know they exist!

STORY: On my way home from work, I stopped at Taco Bell for a quick bite to eat. I have a $50 bill and a $2 bill. I figure with the $2 bill, I can get something to eat and not have to worry about irritating anyone for trying to break a $50 bill.

Me: 'Hi, I'd like one seven-layer burrito please, to go.'

Server: 'That'll be $1.04. Eat in?'

Me: 'No, it's to go.' At this point, I open my billfold and hand him the $2 bill. He looks at it kind of funny.

Server: 'Uh, hang on a sec, I'll be right back.'

He goes to talk to his manager, who is still within my earshot. The following conversation occurs between the two of them:

Server: 'Hey, you ever see a $2 bill?'

Manager: 'No. A what?'

Server: 'A $2 bill. This guy just gave it to me...'

Manager: 'Ask for something else. There's no such thing as a $2 bill.'

Server: 'Yeah, thought so.'

He comes back to me and says, 'We don't take these. Do you have anything else?'

Me: 'Just this fifty. You don't take $2 bills? Why?

Server: 'I don't know.'

Me: 'See here where it says legal tender?'

Server: 'Yeah.'

Me: 'So, why won't you take it?'

Server: 'Well, hang on a sec.'

He goes back to his manager, who has been watching me like I'm a shoplifter, and says to him, 'He says I have to take it.'

Manager: 'Doesn't he have anything else?'

Server: 'Yeah, a fifty. I'll get it and you can open the safe and get change.

Manager: 'I'm not opening the safe with him in here.'

Server: 'What should I do?'

Manager: 'Tell him to come back later when he has real money.'

Server: 'I can't tell him that! You tell him.'

Manager: 'Just tell him.'

Server: 'No way! This is weird. I'm going in back.

The manager approaches me and says,

'I'm sorry, but we don't take big bills this time of night.'

Me: 'It's only seven o'clock! Well then, here's a two dollar bill.'

Manager: 'We don't take those, either.'

Me: 'Why not?'

Manager: 'I think you know why.'

Me: 'No really, tell me why.'

Manager: 'Please leave before I call mall security.'

Me: 'Excuse me?'

Manager: 'Please leave before I call mall security.'

Me: 'What on earth for?'

Manager: 'Please, sir..'

Me: 'Uh, go ahead, call them.'

Manager: 'Would you please just leave?'

Me: 'No.'

Manager: 'Fine -- have it your way then.'

At this point, he backs away from me and calls mall security on the phone around the corner. I have two people staring at me from the dining area and I begin laughing out loud, just for effect.

A few minutes later this 45-year-oldish guy comes in.

Guard: 'Yeah, Mike, what's up?'

Manager (whispering): 'This guy is trying to give me some (pause) funny money.'

Guard: 'No kidding! What?'

Manager: 'Get this. A two dollar bill.'

Guard (incredulous): 'Why would a guy fake a two dollar bill?'

Manager: 'I don't know. He's kinda weird. He says the only other thing he has is a fifty.'

Guard: 'Oh, so the fifty's fake!'

Manager: 'No, the two dollar bill is.'

Guard: 'Why would he fake a two dollar bill?'

Manager : 'I don't know! Can you talk to him, and get him out of here?'

Guard: 'Yeah.'

Security Guard walks over to me and......

Guard: 'Mike here tells me you have some fake bills you're trying to use.'

Me: 'Uh, no.'

Guard: 'Lemme see 'em.'

Me: 'Why?'

Guard: 'Do you want me to get the cops in here?'

At this point I'm ready to say, 'Sure, please!' but I want to eat, so I say, 'I'm just trying to buy a burrito and pay for it with this two dollar bill.

I put the bill up near his face, and he flinches like I'm taking a swing at him. He takes the bill, turns it over a few times in his hands, and he says, 'Hey, Mike, what's wrong with this bill?'

Manager: 'It's fake.'

Guard: 'It doesn't look fake to me.'

Manager: 'But it's a two dollar bill.'

Guard: 'Yeah? '

Manager: 'Well, there's no such thing, is there?'

The security guard and I both look at him like he's an idiot and it dawns on the guy that he has no clue and is an idiot.

So, it turns out that my burrito was free, and he threw in a small drink and some of those cinnamon thingies, too.

Made me want to get a whole stack of two dollar bills just to see what happens when I try to buy stuff.

Haha!!!!

We’re Staring into a Debt Deflation Abyss

We’re Staring into a Debt Deflation Abyss

Liberty and Finance:   6-13-2025

For four decades, the bond market reigned supreme, a testament to falling interest rates and a seemingly invincible U.S. dollar. But according to veteran market analyst Greg Weldon, that era is decisively over.

In a recent interview with Liberty and Finance, Weldon presented a compelling case for major structural shifts in the financial system, driven by soaring debt, a weakening dollar, and escalating geopolitical risks.

Weldon argues that we’ve reached a critical juncture, drawing parallels to pivotal moments in economic history like the Volcker era and the Plaza Accord. He contends that the sheer magnitude of accumulated debt has pushed us past a “debt event horizon,” a point from which recovery through traditional means may be impossible.

This unprecedented level of indebtedness, combined with the Federal Reserve’s aggressive money printing, is fundamentally undermining the U.S. dollar’s global dominance.

Against this backdrop of economic uncertainty, Weldon sees a compelling case for commodities, particularly precious and strategic metals. He points to central bank gold buying, persistent inflation, and heightened geopolitical instability as powerful tailwinds that will drive significant price appreciation in the years ahead.

Gold, often seen as a hedge against inflation and a store of value during times of crisis, is poised to benefit from these trends.

However, Weldon emphasizes the potential for even more dramatic gains in silver and platinum, which are breaking out alongside the falling dollar, despite not being favored by central banks.

Weldon’s bullish outlook on silver and platinum challenges conventional wisdom, as these metals are often overlooked in favor of gold. However, he argues that their unique combination of industrial utility and scarcity makes them particularly attractive in the current environment.

While central banks typically focus on gold reserves, the growing industrial demand for silver and platinum is creating a powerful undercurrent of demand. This, coupled with constrained supply due to mine closures and reduced investment, could lead to significant price appreciation, potentially outpacing gold in the long run.

In this environment of profound change, Weldon stresses the need for active, globally aware investing. He argues that traditional investment strategies, heavily reliant on bonds and a strong dollar, are unlikely to keep pace with inflation, let alone generate meaningful returns.

Instead, he advocates for a diversified portfolio that includes exposure to commodities, especially those positioned to benefit from the energy transition and geopolitical shifts. He also emphasizes the importance of understanding global macroeconomic trends and being prepared for increased market volatility.

Beyond the financial realm, Weldon warns of deeper societal fractures and rising geopolitical tensions that could further destabilize markets. He believes that the current economic imbalances are exacerbating existing social divisions, leading to increased unrest and uncertainty.

In conclusion, Greg Weldon’s analysis paints a stark picture of the financial system at a critical inflection point. He believes the 40-year bond bull market is over, and a new era of rising commodity prices and increased volatility is upon us.

 By understanding these forces and adopting a proactive investment approach, investors can protect their wealth and potentially capitalize on the opportunities that lie ahead. However, it is a landscape that demands vigilance, global awareness, and a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. The future will reward those who are prepared for the coming changes.

https://youtu.be/plcNs-bb4z0

Suze Orman: 6 Bad Pieces of Money Advice

Suze Orman: 6 Bad Pieces of Money Advice

Nicole Spector Fri, January 3, 2025  GOBankingRates

There has always been bad advice out there about what to do with our money. But now, in an increasingly digital age where many of us are glued to social media apps, inhaling particle after particle of “expert” information, we’re inundated with all sorts of financial advice. Some of it is salient and good; but some of it could be terrible for us, or, at best, not rightly sized for our needs and wants.

Suze Orman has become a multimillionaire as a personal finance guru, and is quick to call out a piece of advice about money that should be avoided. Let’s look at six bad pieces of money advice that Orman has bluntly struck down.

‘It’s Fine To Hire a Financial Advisor Who Is Not a Fiduciary’

This one may catch you by surprise, if only because you may not know this distinction exists. Not all financial advisors are fiduciary financial advisors. A fiduciary financial advisory has the qualification and commitment to act in your best interest and is overseen by complex and specific rules.

A financial advisor who does not have a fiduciary duty could act against your best interests by, for example, investing your money in a stock that they want to see succeed for their own prosperity.

“Only advisors who operate as fiduciaries are promising to always put the client’s interest first,” Orman wrote in a blog on her site in 2020. “If you are interviewing potential financial planners, ask them if they are a fiduciary and if they will put that in writing if you work with them. This should be a super easy request anyone will quickly say yes to.”

 ‘You Have To Send Your Kid to an Expensive College in Order for Them To Be Successful’

Like fellow financial expert Dave Ramsey, Orman doesn’t at all disavow a college education, but she does have a scrutinizing eye when she sees people going into student loan debt to secure one. Her philosophy is that college is valuable, but needs to be obtained affordably.

She doesn’t want to see parents place too much importance on the best of the best when it comes to education and their children’s needs. She wants them to be practical and act within their budgets so that they’re not putting their own futures at risk in the name of helping their kids.

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/suze-orman-6-bad-pieces-130007865.html