7 Frugal Money Habits That Could Destroy Your Finances

7 Frugal Money Habits That Could Destroy Your Finances

Cynthia Measom   Wed, October 16, 2024  GOBankingRates

If you find yourself constantly looking for ways to save every single penny, you might be overlooking the bigger picture. Frugality, while an admirable trait, can lead you to make choices that might seem smart in the short term but actually cost more in the long term regarding finances, time and quality of life.

 “Letting the concept of frugality take over life so you are neglecting the bigger picture for small savings can backfire,” said Allison Sanka, accredited financial counselor, financial coach and principal and founder of Journey Financial Wellness. “That immediate dopamine hit of saving a few cents that makes you feel like you’re making progress towards your financial goal — like paying off debt or saving — can actually cost more if you do the math.”

Here are seven frugal habits that aren’t actually good for your finances.

Driving Miles to Different Stores To Get Good Deals

Sanka said that while the savings you might gain by driving from store to store to save a few dollars on sale items versus shopping once a week at one store might seem like a good idea, it’s not. Instead, she said any savings will likely be wiped out when you figure in the cost of your time, gas and wear-and-tear on your vehicle.

Driving To Another Town To Save on Gas

Sanka also said that driving to the next town to save 10 cents a gallon on gas could be more costly than the savings. For example, if your car holds 15 gallons, and you need 14 gallons to fill it up, you’ll save $1.40. Arguably, that could add up to over $140 over the course of the year if you fill up a couple of times a week, but you also have to think about whether that savings is worth your time, gas expenditure to get there and back and the wear-and-tear on your car.

Totally Depriving Yourself of Something You Enjoy

“You will not get rich by not ever buying a $4 coffee and depriving yourself of something you enjoy from time to time,” Sanka said. “Again, it’s about balance; instead of coffee out every day, try buying coffee as a treat on Monday mornings to get you going for the workweek. Then you can look forward to it as a treat.”

Buying Stuff Only Because of the Low Price

Sanka said that focusing on the low cost of an item instead of the need is a mistake that’s not good for your finances. “I see people in the frugal community buying things simply because they’re 75% off or they have a coupon for it (sometimes a marketing tactic to get you to spend) even if it’s not a need,” she said. “If you spent $5 on something you don’t really need, you spent $5 too much.”

Buying Items in Bulk When You Don’t Really Need Them

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/7-frugal-habits-aren-t-110109306.html

Gold Telegraph: Big Things are Happening

Gold Telegraph: Big Things are Happening

7-24-2025

JUDY SHELTON SAYS WE NEED TO OPEN UP THE FEDERAL RESERVE AND MOVE TO A DIFFERENT CONSTRUCT

Well said Judy Shelton

Russian precious metals exports to China almost doubled in the first half of the year… $1 billion. Watch closely.

BREAKING NEWS: U.S. TREASURY SECRETARY SAID THE ENTIRE U.S. FEDERAL RESERVE NEEDED TO BE EXAMINED AS AN INSTITUTION

Wow. Big things are happening.

“What we need to do is examine the entire Federal Reserve institution and whether they have been successful…”

Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/21/treasury-secretary-bessent-calls-for-a-review-of-the-entire-federal-reserve.html

Former Federal Reserve Chairs Ben Bernanke and Janet Yellen jointly warn that the United States’ pressure against its current chief could fuel inflation. The irony here… Everyone has now arrived at the dance.

The brilliant Judy Shelton made a sharp point on CNBC, exposing the dysfunction at the Federal Reserve by highlighting its staggering $900 billion in unrealized losses on its own portfolio.

Gold Telegraph:  Last year, the Federal Reserve had unrealized losses of $948 billion on its bond holdings. Who is counting at this point?

The Treasury Secretary of the United States said this on the replacement of Jerome Powell at the Federal Reserve: “There are several female regional Fed bank presidents and then there are some fantastic women outside the Fed.” Let’s go Judy Shelton

Asian local-currency bond sales reach RECORD. Interesting considering the European bond demand that is happening… The trend is real.

Japan’s 40-year government bond auction generated the weakest demand in 14 years. Look at what happens when the Bank of Japan is no longer at the table buying up everything aggressively. This is why I have always called this situation… “Tragic comedy.”

Imagine observers on Mars seeing the U.S. dollar as the world’s reserve currency… then noticing:

– 125% debt-to-GDP
– 6% annual deficits
– Frequent use of sanctions
– Threats of tariffs
– A country representing just 4% of humanity

What do you think they would say? @elonmusk

https://twitter.com/i/status/1948151895887122872

We talked about:

– Why central banks are quietly hoarding gold
– The slow-motion fall of the dollar
– Yield curve control and debt reflexivity
– How mining is becoming geopolitical power
+ much more.

Chris doesn’t hold back.

Watch here:  https://twitter.com/i/status/1948124819423482343

GOLD TELEGRAPH CONVERSATION #9 CHRIS LEAVY "If you landed here from Mars and were told the reserve currency comes from a country with 125% debt-to-GDP, 6% deficits as far as the eye can see, sanctions countries, threatens tariffs, and represents just 4% of humanity — you'd ask: why is that the reserve currency?" Chris Leavy is a seasoned voice in global finance.

 He began his career in traditional asset management and rapidly rose to oversee billion-dollar mandates at firms like OppenheimerFunds, Morgan Stanley, and BlackRock. Having served as a senior executive inside some of Wall Street’s most powerful institutions, Chris brings a rare insider’s perspective on how capital, power, and policy intersect.

In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore the future of the U.S. dollar, the return of gold as a strategic asset, central bank behavior, debt reflexivity, de-dollarization, and the geopolitical significance of mining and supply chains in a multipolar world.

 Chris makes a compelling case that dollar hegemony is no longer a feature of strength, but inertia. He explains why central banks are quietly preparing for a tokenized, post-dollar system — with gold increasingly at the center. He also shares personal turning points, including why 2022 marked a shift in his worldview, how mining is becoming a geopolitical lever, and why quantitative easing may not be “free” the next time around. Thank you to Chris for joining me on this episode.

A state-backed Chinese gold producer is emerging as the front-runner to acquire Barrick’s Tongon gold mine in northern Ivory Coast. This deal would be valued at up to $500 million. China continues to swallow up gold deposits.

The President of the United States will visit the US Federal Reserve tomorrow (Thursday) . When Fort Knox?

Source(s):  https://x.com/GoldTelegraph_/status/1947302389825900921

https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/07/24/gold-telegraph-big-things-are-happening/

Thursday Coffee with MarkZ. 07/24/2025

Thursday Coffee with MarkZ. 07/24/2025

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…. Maybe we will get lucky and our notifications will come out this coming weekend

Member: I quit watching Soap Opera's decades ago and now I am living in one.... shm

Member: We could sure use some good news today

Member: Mark, what happened to all the bond people who were given money to travel?

MZ: That’s part of what I cannot talk about. Lets just say a number of them traveled. They are now extremely positive and won’t talk about what happened. Some traveled this week and have meetings today. One meeting starts very soon in Europe.  I hope I am able to share this update.

Member: I hope those that traveled put us at the 30% requirement.

Member: The Bonds are going soon then the currency? Does these bonds mean the Zims?

Member: These are historic bonds…..Zim is supposed to go when currencies go……imo

Member: There are rumors the dinar rate is $4.40

MZ: The rate has not changed yet. The official rate is still around 1300 to $1 USD. Most of my sources still believe the rate will be around $3.80 to $4.00    We will see.

Member: Guess no Christmas in July this year.

MZ: I still think Christmas in July is very reasonable.

MZ: “ Kurdistan finances announces the receipt of the salaries of the regions employees for the month of May”   We now know it has officially happened and the money is where it needs to be. This is a major breakthrough.

Member: Pres. Trump tours the new Federal Reserve headquarters today……Maybe something happens after that?

Member:  Is it to early to know if redemption folks are working this weekend??

Member: when a kid gets in the car to go to Disneyland on family vacation cross country they soon begin to say "are we there yet?" .. We're in the car headed to RV & we'll be there soon kids . . lol

Member: We are almost there folks! Hang on …it is a crazy ride!

 Member: Thanks Mark and mods…..I do appreciate you very much for all you do. Thank you.

StacieZ joins the stream today. 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=-5yxA2_4gG4

News, Rumors and Opinions Wednesday 7-24-2025

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

RV Excerpts from the Restored Republic via a GCR: Update as of Thurs. 24 July 2025

Compiled Thurs. 24 July 2025 12:01 am EST by Judy Byington

Wed. 23 July 2025 DEBRIEFING: “HIGH OCTANE SPECULATION” & THE NEW US TREASURY (Rumors)

What if I told you… the Fed building IS the new U.S. Treasury? And they’re already printing new sovereign money under our noses?

Let’s break the spell: They just spent $2.5 BILLION turning the Eccles Building into a fortress — complete with blast-proofing, deep excavation, and infrastructure more fitting for a wartime financial command bunker than a “central bank HQ.”

Meanwhile…The Bureau of Engraving and Printing is (allegedly)  quietly installing cutting-edge currency presses — capable of handling asset-backed notes, polymers, hot-foil security, and high-throughput sheets.

Think: new system, new currency, new rules.
EO 13961? Active.
EO 13818? Active.

Legal cover for asset seizures, continuity-of-government transitions, and a reset of monetary authority outside the old Fed structure.

And here’s the punchline: The actual U.S. Treasury building? Untouched. Antiquated. Symbolic. But Eccles? It’s been turned into Versailles with a vault. This isn’t remodeling. It’s repurposing.

And when the Fed collapses under the weight of its own lies, guess what’s already locked, loaded, and press-ready? A new U.S. Treasury. A new currency. A new era. They’re not just printing money. They’re printing the future.

ncpc.gov/projects/8113/
https://x.com/TheDebriefing17/status/1947609976781852844?t=pwb4IfPwW6XzfIezTk2J9w&s=19

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Restored Republic

Sun. 20 July 2025: PROTOCOLS, Scott Brunswick:

Protocol #1: All banking-related debts wiped out permanently — including mortgages, loans, and credit cards. This is a reset, not a bailout. The system was illigal from the start.

Protocol #2: Income taxes are being abolished. No more IRS raids, no more wage theft. In its place: a 14% flat tax on luxury items only. Food, medicine, housing — untaxed and protected.

Protocol #3: The IRS is shut down. Its agents reassigned to oversee fair taxation under Treasury authority, not corporate fiat enforcers.

Protocol #4: The Federal Reserve is (allegedly) gone. Its monopoly on money creation has ended. In its place: a gold, silver, and platinum-backed Rainbow Currency, immune to manipulation and printed theft.

Protocol #9: Financial privacy is restored. No more tracking, no more spying. Treasury-issued accounts under QFS cannot be accessed by rogue agencies or foreign banks.

Protocol #11: Humanitarian funding is being deployed. Global projects will be citizen-led, not NGO-controlled. Homelessness, food instability, and educational collapse are being addressed with real wealth and infrastructure.

Protocol #12: Redemption of stolen value. ZIM and other sovereign bonds will be honored. Portions for personal use, portions for global rebuilding.

Read full post here:  https://dinarchronicles.com/2025/07/24/restored-republic-via-a-gcr-update-as-of-july-24-2025/

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

Walkingstick  The ban on dealing with dollar inside of Iraq that's why the value has been increasing.  Everyone inside of Iraq, all these contractors, everyone is going to use the IQD.  They're about to use it on a different level. The statement that everyone inside of Iraq is about to use the IQD, that's the big one.  That's what's going to boost the value of the Iraqi dinar.  That's what's going to give them purchasing power.  But above all things that's what's going to give Iraqi citizens confidence in their new national currency the IQD. 

Frank26  The financial advisor Saleh have told the Iraqi citizens the difference between the official rate of our currency and the parallel rate is now approaching less than 4% and that indicates you've entered the 'conversion phase'...Do you realize how close we are to what they want to accomplish?  This is monstrous...This is phenomenal what we are witnessing.

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

SILVER ALERT! Why $150,000/oz Silver May be a Conservative Estimate! GOT PHYSICAL?!

(Bix Weir)   7-23-2025

A Tsunami of Buying Power is building behind this Silver bull run with Industrial users crawling over each other to secure physical silver.

When $50/oz Silver is passed and established as a new floor there will be no silver left for the Investing Public!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atOGa511tiI

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Thursday Morning 7-24-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

Treasury Secretary Bessent Urges Internal Review of Federal Reserve as Pressure Mounts on Chair Powell

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has called for a comprehensive internal review of the Federal Reserve, citing concerns over the central bank’s expanding operations and budget amid rising political pressure on Fed Chair Jerome Powell.

In a Bloomberg Television interview, Bessent highlighted the need to reassess the Fed’s institutional scope, warning that its growing mandate risks undermining the core function of monetary policy.

“I believe that it would do Chair Powell a favor, and he would be doing the institution a favor, if he did an internal review—separating monetary policy from everything else.”

Bessent echoed concerns previously raised by Larry Summers, noting that the Fed’s “mission creep” could compromise its independence. Since 2004, the central board’s budget has quadrupled, a shift Bessent says warrants internal scrutiny.

“It is a big, sprawling institution. Every institution needs to examine themselves.”

Political Pressure and Presidential Criticism

The comments come amid mounting pressure from President Donald Trump, who has publicly criticized Powell for refusing to cut interest rates. Trump has expressed a hope that Powell will voluntarily resign, though he stated he does not intend to fire him.

Adding fuel to the debate, renowned economist Mohamed El-Erian recently called for Powell to step down—a position that surprised Bessent but did not overshadow his own call for a review process.

“The Bank of England, after the 2022 rate shock, brought in outside experts to assess what went wrong. That’s the kind of model we could look at.”

Proposed Structure of Review

Bessent emphasized that Powell could oversee the review himself, potentially leading a committee or expert panel. He stressed that the internal review must be credible, warning that a superficial process might require an external examination.

“If the internal review didn’t look like it was serious, then maybe there could be an external review.”

Broader Implications

With financial policy at a crossroads, Bessent’s call reflects a broader debate over central bank transparency, mission clarity, and the Fed’s expanding influence in non-monetary realms. As political scrutiny intensifies and the 2024–2025 rate debate continues, the Fed's internal structure is now under a national spotlight.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: DailyHodl

~~~~~~~~~

Trump’s Presidential Crypto Task Force Set to Deliver Landmark Report July 30

The Presidential Working Group on Digital Asset Markets, established under President Donald Trump’s first executive order, is preparing to release its highly anticipated 180-day crypto policy report on July 30—a milestone for the U.S. digital asset landscape.

Key Points to Expect:
• Comprehensive guidance on stablecoin regulation, token classification, and enforcement reform following passage of the GENIUS and CLARITY Acts
• Potential blueprint for building a federal Bitcoin reserve using seized digital assets, not taxpayer funds
• Clear stance against a retail CBDC, citing privacy and trust concerns
• Framework for international cooperation and tax policy updates

“America is now leading the way on digital asset policy,” said Bo Hines, Executive Director of the task force.

From Campaign to Policy

Just three days after inauguration, President Trump signed an executive order establishing the working group, fulfilling campaign promises to make the U.S. “the crypto capital of the world.” Led by AI and crypto czar David Sacks, the task force includes top officials from the Treasury, SEC, CFTC, DOJ, and other federal agencies.

The Bitcoin Reserve Question

One of the most talked-about aspects of the report is the potential recommendation to build a Bitcoin reserve using digital assets already seized by federal authorities.

“This isn’t about buying Bitcoin on the open market, but rather building a secure sovereign crypto reserve drawn from existing assets,” said Monica Jasuja, Chief Expansion and Innovation Officer at Emerging Payments Association Asia.

No Retail CBDC, Clearer Stablecoin Oversight

The group is expected to firmly reject the idea of a retail central bank digital currency (CBDC) due to privacy concerns. Instead, the U.S. will likely promote regulated USD-pegged stablecoins and outline new compliance standards for issuers.

A Step Toward Global Leadership

If the recommendations include a secure and strategic approach to holding crypto reserves, it may position the U.S. as a global leader in sovereign crypto infrastructure, analysts say.

“If done right, this report could deliver the kind of regulatory clarity that makes America the most attractive place for digital finance development,” said Jasuja.

The release of this report will follow a structured review timeline laid out by Trump’s executive order, requiring all agencies to submit input within 30, 60, and 180-day windows respectively.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: Decrypt

~~~~~~~~~

Tether Eyes Return to U.S. Market Amid Stablecoin Regulatory Shift

Tether, the issuer of the world’s most traded stablecoin USDT, is making significant moves toward reentering the United States as the regulatory landscape for digital assets evolves.

In a new interview with Bloomberg Television, CEO Paolo Ardoino confirmed that Tether is “well in progress” with establishing a domestic strategy focused on payments, interbank settlements, and trading.

“We are in the process of building our U.S. presence, but our focus will remain on emerging markets,” Ardoino said Wednesday.

A Controversial Past, But Global Dominance

Tether was previously banned from operating in New York and paid nearly $60 million in 2021 to settle with both the New York Attorney General and the CFTC over misleading claims related to its reserves.

Despite this, Tether remains dominant, with USDT representing 70% of the stablecoin market as of Q1 2025. The company reported $149.28 billion in total assets and $143.68 billion in liabilities, according to its May attestation signed by BDO Italia SpA.

Tether has not yet undergone a formal audit by a Big Four firm, although Ardoino stated that conversations with auditors are ongoing.

U.S. Strategy and Compliance Challenges

Although Ardoino said Tether does not plan to go public, he reaffirmed that the company is working toward compliance with U.S. regulations. Tether's reserves are largely made up of compliant assets, but still include bitcoin and secured loans, which may not meet new U.S. regulatory standards.

In a May interview, Ardoino underscored the company’s broader mission:

“Our customer base is the 30 billion unbanked people who aren’t part of the traditional financial system.”

A New Dollar-Pegged Stablecoin Coming

Tether also plans to launch a new U.S. dollar-pegged stablecoin within a year, signaling an effort to align with the GENIUS Act and the new U.S. regulatory framework for stablecoins.

As the U.S. government shifts toward blockchain-based dollar issuance, Tether’s strategic return could reshape the stablecoin sector—especially if it can navigate compliance while maintaining its dominance in emerging economies.

@ Newshounds News™
Source: PYMNTS  

~~~~~~~~~

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Thank you Dinar Recaps

“Tidbits From TNT” Thursday Morning 7-24-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  The disbursement of salaries for Kurdistan employees for the month of May begins tomorrow and ends on Sunday.

The Ministry of Finance and Economy in the Kurdistan Region announced on Thursday that the distribution of employee salaries for the month of May will begin tomorrow, Friday, and end on Sunday.

 May salaries will be disbursed starting on Friday (July 25, 2025) and ending on Sunday (July 27, 2025).

Retirees who receive their salaries through the "My Account" system will be able to receive their salaries via ATMs on Thursday.  link

Tishwash:  Iraq is approaching Trump's table and is no longer in the hands of the US Undersecretary of State.

Analysis by Dr. Ali Agwan

 An Iraqi expert said that the US Secretary of State's call today with Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani regarding the Popular Mobilization Forces and Kurdistan's salaries indicates that Iraq is no longer a secondary issue in the hands of the deputy minister or a lower-level official. It is likely to become a clear priority for President Trump himself, following changes affecting the region's economy, oil, and security.

 Ali Agwan – Professor of International Relations and Strategic Affairs

ecretary of State Marco Rubio's call with the Prime Minister indicates that the Iraq file has shifted from the Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs to the Secretary's desk, and may later be transferred to the President's desk! This means that the Iraqi file has shifted in the American strategic mind from a secondary issue to a diplomatic one with a direct security and economic impact in the coming period.

2- The targeting of foreign oil platforms in Iraq prompted the US Secretary of State to discuss two main options with the Prime Minister: Either the Iraqi government intervenes and does what is necessary to protect the oil sector and foreign companies in Iraq from drone attacks, or we do what is necessary and protect this sector as part of our national interests.

3- The US embassy's description of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) legislation as a law that serves Iran's agenda in the region places al-Sudani in a complex zero-sum confrontation with his internal partners and Iran itself. It's as if the US wants to tell al-Sudani that we want him to be clear with us. There's no room for maneuver: Either side with Iran and support this legislation, or side with us and block it!! They want to tell him: Do you want to be on Iran's side so that you can justify including Iraq in a new package of harsh sanctions? Or do you want to side with us so that we can give Iraq a special status, isolated from the policies of maximum pressure against Iran?

4- Informing Al-Sudani of the necessity of delivering the region's salaries without delay indicates that the region is going through difficult and pivotal moments related to its economic reality. The United States realizes that it is almost impossible to resolve the oil crisis between Baghdad and Erbil in the manner Baghdad desires, given that there are American and non-American companies that have 50-year contracts with Erbil independently of Baghdad. The United States does not want to see the collapse of more than thirty years of cooperation with the region due to pressure from the Iraqi government to hand over the region's oil to Baghdad in exchange for Baghdad handing over the region's salaries. The minister wants to tell Al-Sudani, "Give the salaries to the region and do not get involved in the fine details with them, because a solution is impossible now!"

Does this constitute interference in Iraq's internal affairs? Yes, but who can tell the United States not to interfere and prevent them from doing so?  link

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

Tishwash:  The Iraqi dinar reached a new record high against the dollar.

The foreign exchange market in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, recorded a record high for the dinar against the dollar on Wednesday, reaching 1,380 dinars per dollar, compared to the previous value of 1,420 dinars per dollar. This decline, according to experts, is the result of a convergence of several internal and external factors, most notably the strict government measures taken by the Central Bank to limit speculation in the currency market, in addition to the country's growing foreign exchange reserves due to the rise in oil prices , and enhanced cooperation with international financial institutions to control the movement of the dollar within the country.

The exchange rate of the dollar on the parallel (unofficial) market reached 1,380 Iraqi dinars to the dollar, the first time in two years. The official rate, set by the Central Bank of Iraq, is 1,310 Iraqi dinars to the dollar. The dollar has been fluctuating in price over the past period, reaching 1,700 dinars, while it has been stable for a long time at 1,450,000 dinars.

Financial and economic expert Rashid Al-Saadi told Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, "The recent decline in the dollar exchange rate against the Iraqi dinar is a direct result of a package of policies and measures adopted by the Central Bank of Iraq, in cooperation with other state institutions. These include restricting illegal foreign transfers, adopting an official transfer platform, and enhancing the flow of foreign currency through the Central Bank's window. This has helped meet actual demand for the dollar and narrow the gap between the official rate and the parallel market rate."

Al-Saadi explained that "the increase in foreign currency reserves, as a result of improved global oil prices and continued coordination with the US Treasury Department to monitor dollar movements, has given greater confidence to the markets and contributed to calming speculation. Maintaining this decline requires continued transparency in the currency sales window, expanding oversight measures for banks and exchange companies, and revitalizing the local production sector to reduce reliance on imports, thus reducing pressure on the dollar."

He added, "The impact of the dollar's decline on local markets has twofold consequences. On the one hand, the prices of some imported goods may decline, which would positively impact citizens' purchasing power. On the other hand, some commercial activities that relied on the exchange rate differential in the parallel market to generate profits may be harmed."

The financial and economic expert emphasized that "what we need today is long-term stability based on genuine economic reforms, not just a temporary improvement in the exchange rate. The continued decline in the dollar exchange rate against the Iraqi dinar requires a set of sustainable measures that enhance confidence in monetary policy and maintain market balance. To prevent this decline from being merely a temporary phenomenon, the government and the Central Bank must work to deepen financial reforms and expand the scope of structural solutions in the currency market."

For his part, Mazhar Mohammed Saleh, financial and economic advisor to Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, said in media statements on Wednesday that the relevant decisions and policies taken by the Central Bank and the government will lead to narrowing the gap between the official dollar price and its price on the parallel market, in a path that may lead to reaching the stage of "congruence" between the two prices. He said in a press statement to the local Shafaq News Agency that "the gap between the official and parallel prices approaching less than 4% indicates entering the congruence stage, as this difference only represents the cost of transactions."

In early 2023, Iraq announced the adoption of an electronic platform to monitor dollar sales and money laundering operations. This followed warnings issued by the Federal Reserve (the US central bank) and the Treasury Department's sanctioning of several local banks for their involvement in suspicious activities. A bank statement stated that "it was decided to expand the external transfer channels for local banks to include new currencies: the Jordanian dinar and the Saudi riyal, and to allow Iraqi banks to finance trade with Turkey in euros, after previously being restricted to using them with European Union countries. Transfers are also available in dollars, Emirati dirhams, Chinese yuan, and Indian rupees."

Previous decisions by the US Treasury Department to impose sanctions on 18 Iraqi banks for financial transactions with Iran and others linked to money laundering operations triggered a swift reaction within Iraq, leading to a decline in the value of the dinar and a rush of depositors to the sanctioned banks to withdraw their dollar holdings. With reserves exceeding $113 billion in the United States, Iraq relies heavily on Washington's goodwill to ensure that its oil revenues and cash are not subject to US sanctions.

Last October, the US government rejected an Iraqi request for $1 billion in cash from the Federal Reserve using Iraqi funds generated from oil revenues. The US government opposed efforts to curb excessive dollar circulation and halt illicit cash flows to countries sanctioned by the US Treasury. ink

Mot:  . A Piece frum da ""Olden"" Daze!!! ... 

Mot: Yippeeeee!!! -- Finded a title to Always Be Positive I Dids!!! 

FRANK26…7-23-25….ALOHA….LESS THAN 4%

KTFA

Wednesday Night Video

FRANK26…7-23-25….ALOHA….LESS THAN 4%

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

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

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fBTLPhmB-0

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Afternoon 7-23-25

The Dinar Is Recovering And The Exchange Rate Is Declining Towards The Official Rate.
 
Samir Al-Nusairi   For several months in 2025, the US dollar exchange rate has continued to decline against the Iraqi dinar,  recovering by around 13 points.

It is expected to gradually decline to approach the official exchange rate during the coming period of this year, in accordance with the Central Bank's strategy and ongoing measures for comprehensive banking reform, regulating foreign trade financing, and  transitioning to direct dealings between our banks and correspondent banks, in addition to  complying with international banking standards.

Restricting the sale and distribution of cash dollars to a strict mechanism has been praised by the International Monetary Fund and the US Treasury  as a successful and advanced method and application for controlling the stability of the US dollar exchange rate and  keeping cash dollar sales to a minimum, thus  preventing the circulation of the currency from being available for speculation in the parallel market.
 
To support the dinar's recovery,"we must look at the rate at which the Central Bank covers all external transactions, including imports and personal transfers.
 
This explains price stability, given the current inflation rate, which is less than 2.5%, lower than the inflation rates in neighboring countries.
 
This means that the Central Bank has achieved two basic monetary policy objectives:
     controlling exchange rates and  curbing inflation."
 
This confirms that the wise monetary policy adopted by the Central Bank has contributed significantly to the   stability of the exchange rate and the  decline of the parallel market to the lowest possible level.
 
The Central Bank's insistence and cooperation with the government  during the second half of the current year will lead to a gradual decline in the exchange rate of the US dollar, which  has been stable for two days at the thirties and is  moving towards the official exchange rate. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=57749    

The US Has Stopped Sending Cash Dollars To Iraq. Is This The Beginning Of A Blockade?

July 21, 2025  Al-Mustaqillah/- Private sources confirmed that the United States has decided to completely halt cash dollar shipments to Iraq, a move described as potentially the beginning of a "financial blockade"  on some Iraqi banks involved in currency smuggling and money laundering.
 
According to a source who spoke to Al-Mustaqilla on condition of anonymity, Washington's decision does not pertain to Iraq as a country, but rather targets specific banks suspected of involvement in suspicious dollar transfers to countries subject to international sanctions. This has angered the US Treasury, prompting it to tighten controls on dollar movement within the Iraqi market.
 
Sudden drop in exchange rate after the decision
 
Remarkably, the US decision coincided with a  significant decline in the dollar exchange rate in the Iraqi market.

Experts interpreted this as a natural consequence of the   restrictions on the circulation of cash and the prevention of its smuggling abroad.  This led to an increase in supply in the local market and a temporary decline in its price.
 
Government shift towards “legal dollarization”
 
Separately, a banking source revealed that the Iraqi government has been relying on
new mechanisms for disbursing salaries and conducting financial transactions for months.
 
These mechanisms involve legal invoices processed through  official banks and  digital platforms  linked to the global financial system. This is an alternative to the paper dollar shipments previously transported into the country by air.
 
The source indicated that this step represents a major shift in cash liquidity management in Iraq,
making it difficult for suspicious entities to  continue smuggling or  manipulating the currency market.
 
Is this the beginning of the storm?
 
The US decision raises many questions about the future of dollar transactions in Iraq,
especially in light of escalating regional tensions and Washington's tightening of financial sanctions.
 
Are we witnessing the beginning of a new phase of international restrictions on the Iraqi economy?
Or is this merely a technical measure against some violating banks?   https://mustaqila.com/أمريكا-توقف-إرسال-الدولار-النقدي-إلى-ا/  

Government Advisor: Iraq Is Witnessing Vital Stability And Is Moving Towards Diversifying Its Revenues Away From Oil.
 
Baghdad - INA - Nassar Al-Hajj  The Prime Minister's financial advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, confirmed on Tuesday that  Iraq is working to build a sustainable revenue base independent of oil market fluctuations. He noted that  the government has launched a reform package to boost non-oil revenues, indicating that  Iraq is experiencing vital stability that offers broad opportunities for progress.  Saleh told the Iraqi News Agency (INA):
 
"Internal stability is today a fundamental pillar in the Iraqi government's efforts to enhance the investment environment and sustainable development.

Reliable international reports, most notably  Iraq's stable credit rating,  clearly indicate a marked improvement in the investment climate and  confirm Iraq's ability to withstand regional challenges, which  sends positive signals to global markets and donors." 

He added,  "The ongoing development transformations have contributed to  reviving dozens of major, stalled projects, and the adoption of a government program based on  providing services has created an attractive investment climate for the first time in years." 

He continued,  "This progress comes after the country overcame a difficult period of crises, including  security Challenges,  waves of violence and terrorism, as well as the repercussions of health crises and sharp declines in oil prices over the past decade." 

He explained that "the current phase represents a pivotal shift in Iraq's political and economic history, as it is witnessing a vital stability that provides broad opportunities for progress, despite the surrounding geopolitical risks."

He added,  "What distinguishes this stability is its superiority over its turbulent regional environment, reflecting the  strength of national cohesion and the  restoration of the effectiveness of the social contract, both economic and political." 

 He pointed out that  "these combined indicators give Iraq a real opportunity to build a more stable and prosperous future, free from the burdens of the past, and qualified to become a pivotal player in the regional and international economy." 

He explained that  "the fundamental reforms in the government's program aim to  diversify sources of national income and  enhance the state's efficiency in collecting its financial dues without imposing unjustified additional burdens on citizens. This is a prerequisite for achieving long-term economic stability."
 
As part of its drive to diversify sources of income and achieve financial sustainability, the Prime Minister's advisor emphasized that "the government has sought to implement a package of fundamental reforms aimed at  increasing non-oil revenues and   reducing reliance on volatile oil revenues.
 
These reforms include:
     reforming the tax system by expanding the tax base,
     automating collection,
     combating tax evasion, and
     simplifying procedures."  

He continued:   "The government also sought to enhance fees and service revenues by reviewing the pricing of government services, increasing collection efficiency and activating electronic payment and collection,  so that cash flows into the unified government account became ore  transparent,  efficient, and  governed.

 It also modernized the  customs system,  unified tariffs, automated border crossings, and combated smuggling and border violations through a digital framework in cooperation with international technical bodies, especially the United Nations." 

He pointed out,  "The importance of the state's approach to reforming public companies, through restructuring, strengthening partnerships with the private sector, and achieving profitability, in addition to the trend towards productive investment in public property, through inventorying and activating the state's assets and its unused assets, and  settling illegal occupations, as well as  improving revenues from the telecommunications sector by amending company contracts, imposing taxes on data,  expanding the digital infrastructure, and activating local financing tools, particularly in issuing local government development bonds, and  establishing various development financing funds." 

Saleh emphasized that  "the government is working to build a sustainable revenue base independent of oil market fluctuations, supporting economic growth plans and  enhancing the country's financial stability,   which is the primary goal of prosperity and the essence of economic reform." 

He concluded by saying:  “The achievements made over the past two years represent an important path for  Iraq’s transition to an advanced stage of stability and sustainable development.
 
It is a challenging model that  combines the two conditions (stability and development) on the basis of rapid progress simultaneously, despite the enormous international and regional geopolitical challenges,
and compared to the two difficult decades that our country has gone through.” https://ina.iq/ar/economie/239224-.html   

 Expert: Buying Real Estate Abroad Is A "Front For Money Laundering" And The Reason Iraqis Are The Dominant Players In Some Countries.
 
Baghdad Today – Baghdad  Anti-corruption expert Saeed Yassin Musa confirmed on Wednesday (July 23, 2025) that  purchasing real estate abroad has become one of the approved methods for money laundering, which explains the Iraqi nationality's dominance in real estate purchases in some countries in the region. 

In an exclusive interview with Baghdad Today, Moussa said, "The phenomenon of money laundering through the purchase of real estate abroad is on the rise, which  poses a real threat to the Iraqi economy and  threatens the country's financial integrity system."

He explained that "some parties involved in financial corruption are exploiting  legal loopholes and weak external oversight  to transfer stolen public funds into real estate investments in various countries." 

He added,  "These operations are not limited to money smuggling alone, but also contribute to depriving the Iraqi economy of liquidity and  local investment,  which deepens its economic crises."’

He emphasized that  "the Iraqi government and relevant oversight bodies are required to activate  financial tracking mechanisms and international cooperation,   particularly with countries with strict laws against money laundering." 

The anti-corruption expert noted that "remaining silent about this phenomenon will strengthen corruption networks and undermine opportunities for development and reform,  something Iraq cannot tolerate at this critical stage."
 
Specialized reports indicate that real estate investment abroad has become one of the most prominent means of money laundering in Iraq, especially after restrictions on bank transfers were tightened.
 
These investments are often registered in the names of brokers or shell companies to conceal the stolen funds.
 
Iraqi nationals have ranked first among several regional countries in real estate purchases in recent years, raising questions about the sources of these funds,  particularly in light of the escalating reports of widespread  financial corruption and  money laundering  since 2003.   https://baghdadtoday.news/279228-.html    

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

7 Key Signs You’re Wealthier Than You Think

7 Key Signs You’re Wealthier Than You Think

Caitlyn Moorhead  Tue, April 29, 2025 GOBankingRates

Controversial but consummately successful podcaster Joe Rogan once said he felt like he’d “made it” financially when he had enough money to eat at a restaurant at night without feeling guilty and stressed about what it cost the following day.

Rogan’s net worth is now estimated at $200 million, which is all the money in the world — unless you’re Elon Musk. That makes Rogan’s $200 million fortune he made bloviating opinions less than 0.05% of Musk’s $391 billion fortune he made buying cars and rocket ships.

The point is that how you feel about wealth is subjective and can come from many sources. In a country where more than half of all six-figure earners reportedly live paycheck to paycheck, how do you know if you’re rich, or at least richer than you think? Here are eight key signs you may be wealthier than most Americans.

You Make More Than the Median Earner

Your salary, of course, plays a significant role in your ability to accumulate wealth and has a lot to do with how you measure up to the masses.

“The median household income in the U.S. is around $75,000,” said Joel Ohman, certified financial planner and CEO of Clearsurance. “So, if you make more than that, your income is higher than half the people in the country.

“Of course, how far $75,000 takes you will depend on where you live. For example, you have a lot more buying power with $75,000 a year in Glendive, Montana, than you would in Orange County, California.”

Since the cost of living varies so dramatically from one place to the next, area median income (AMI) is a more accurate yardstick to measure your comparative wealth.

HUD Loans by commercial property financing firm Janover offers a state-by-state AMI breakdown with metro, non-metro and total AMI variants. Fannie Mae has a map-based AMI lookup tool that allows for much more granular and local detail.

You’ve Met the Standard Saving Milestones

Even the most impressive income is no indication of wealth if you spend more of it than you make, which so many high earners seem to do. The more accurate barometer, then, is how much you have in the bank.

“If you’re making higher than an average salary and have saved four times your annual income, and you’re in your 20s, you’re doing very well,” said Ohman.

Ohman’s benchmark is exceptionally high. The standard guideline is to have the equivalent of your annual salary saved by age 30, three times your salary by 40, six times by 50, eight times by 60 and 10 times by 67.

Several studies have shown that more than half the country is behind on those milestones, so even being on par with your decade’s goal lands you a spot among the more affluent half.

You’re Not Drowning in Outstanding Financial Obligations

TO READ MORE:  https://finance.yahoo.com/news/signs-wealthier-think-152349259.html

$15,000 Gold Revaluation? Silver Would Go Through The Roof | Thompson & Hemke

$15,000 Gold Revaluation? Silver Would Go Through The Roof | Thompson & Hemke

Liberty and Finance:  7-22-2025

Two financial experts, Craig Hemke and Clive Thompson, discuss the recent surge in precious metals and the growing speculation around a potential gold revaluation.

 Thompson suggests gold could be revalued to $15,000 an ounce, which would significantly affect silver and help the U.S. manage its debt.

Hemke notes signs pointing to structural changes in U.S. monetary policy and hints that the government may be preparing for a shift in how it handles gold.

Both experts agree that mainstream and retail interest in metals remains relatively low despite rising prices.

They emphasize that silver, in particular, appears poised for a breakout, especially amid signs of tightening physical supply.

INTERVIEW TIMELINE:

 0:00 Intro

2:16 Gold & silver update

 3:00 Gold revaluation

19:26 Silver market

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gx7D8dQu5MA