News, Rumors and Opinions Thursday 2-26-2026
KTFA
Clare: The Central Bank of Iraq launches a new initiative to expand the capacity of private banks to support international trade.
2/26/2026
The Central Bank of Iraq announced on Thursday the launch of a new initiative to expand the ability of private banks to support international trade by allowing them to resume cross-border transactions and issue letters of credit in several foreign currencies.
In a statement today, the bank indicated that it had completed the main step in the comprehensive reform process for commercial and Islamic banks and branches of foreign banks by submitting the documents required for review in accordance with the "minimum requirements," which were summarized as choosing one of three paths: "continuing in the market as independent banking institutions, merging with other banking institutions, or exiting the market."
KTFA
Clare: The Central Bank of Iraq launches a new initiative to expand the capacity of private banks to support international trade.
2/26/2026
The Central Bank of Iraq announced on Thursday the launch of a new initiative to expand the ability of private banks to support international trade by allowing them to resume cross-border transactions and issue letters of credit in several foreign currencies.
In a statement today, the bank indicated that it had completed the main step in the comprehensive reform process for commercial and Islamic banks and branches of foreign banks by submitting the documents required for review in accordance with the "minimum requirements," which were summarized as choosing one of three paths: "continuing in the market as independent banking institutions, merging with other banking institutions, or exiting the market."
The statement affirmed that “all Iraqi banks have submitted the required documents according to the path they chose, allowing the Central Bank to assess their level of compliance with the minimum requirements,” noting that “during the coming months, the banks will work to address any identified gaps and will strive to achieve full compliance with the reform standards.”
The Central Bank of Iraq also announced in its statement the launch of "a new initiative to expand the ability of private banks to support international trade for their clients, whereby banks that meet specific criteria according to the assessment of the Central Bank of Iraq will be allowed to resume cross-border transactions and issue letters of credit in several international currencies, including the Euro, the UAE Dirham, the Chinese Yuan, the Jordanian Dinar, and others," explaining that "this step comes as a continuation of the path drawn by the Central Bank of Iraq to enhance confidence in the future of the Iraqi economy and the global interconnectedness of the financial sector, and to lead sustainable growth for Iraq." LINK
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Clare: Yazan Mishaan al-Jubouri was arrested on charges of impersonation and embezzling 41 billion dinars.
2/26/2025
Iraqi politician Mishaan al-Jubouri announced early Thursday morning that his son, Yazan Mishaan al-Jubouri, had been arrested by a special security force that raided his home and taken him to an undisclosed location.
Al-Jubouri indicated in a tweet on the “X” platform that the operation was carried out based on an arrest warrant issued by the judge of the Karkh Investigation Court.
In addition, an official document issued by the Supreme Judicial Council/Presidency of the Baghdad Al-Karkh Court of Appeal/Central Anti-Corruption Criminal Court, dated 2/25/2026, showed the issuance of an arrest and search warrant against Yazan Mishaan Rakan Damin Al-Jubouri.
According to the document, the type of charge against him is “impersonating a civil service position” and entering into public service work “without permission or a capacity that authorizes him to do so in order to achieve material benefits,” and taking a sum of money amounting to 41 billion dinars, in accordance with the provisions of Resolution 160 of 1983 as amended.
The order stipulated that he be brought in as a detainee to take legal action against him, as he is accused in the complaint filed before the Central Anti-Corruption Crimes Investigation Judge. LINK
Courtesy of Dinar Guru: https://www.dinarguru.com/
Jeff Everything is up in the air. They're working towards revaluing the currency. They're working towards everything. The rate is very close to revaluing. There's just a small little delay in the mix.
Frank26 [Iraq boots-on-the-ground report] FIREFLY: Our Television showing the Iraqi citizens how to go from cash to digitization. They're calling it a quantitative step towards financial transparency. FRANK: That's big because...you got to bring in your foreign currency and become digitalized because that's how they're going to give you the new rate, the new lower notes...Your CBI is doing a final sweep of the American dollar in your country as they prepare to introduce the lower notes and the new rate...
Militia Man For those who have followed currency reforms you might remember this. Iraq's current phase mirrors Turkmenistan's transition back in 2009. Turkmenistan first reduced cash circulation...enforced official rates and built reserves. All those are things Iraq has done, reduced cash - Zane Cash, key card, electronic payments through the state - reduction. They enforced the official 1300 rates for three years...Three years of stacking reserves - gold, non-oil revenues, low inflation and note reduction...If all of this holds true, the data strongly suggests it does, the logical next step is a managed REER adjustment when the CBI deems prudent.
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How Much Dinar Do You Need To Be A Millionaire?
Dinar For Dummies: 2-26-2026
Here is the Spreadsheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10ZXLxKKTZaRGlMCta8Xqw8PPkeE5QHdR/view?usp=sharing
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Morning 2-26-26
Good Morning Dinar Recaps,
Rare Earth Shock: U.S. Aerospace and Chipmakers Face Strategic Supply Squeeze
Yttrium and scandium shortages expose critical mineral vulnerabilities ahead of high-stakes U.S.–China talks
Good Morning Dinar Recaps,
Rare Earth Shock: U.S. Aerospace and Chipmakers Face Strategic Supply Squeeze
Yttrium and scandium shortages expose critical mineral vulnerabilities ahead of high-stakes U.S.–China talks
Overview
A worsening shortage of critical rare earth elements is tightening pressure on U.S. aerospace and semiconductor manufacturers — even after a temporary easing in trade tensions between the United States and China.
The bottleneck centers on yttrium and scandium, two niche but indispensable materials heavily dominated by China. As President Donald Trump prepares for a high-level summit with Xi Jinping, rare earth access is emerging as a strategic bargaining chip in broader geopolitical negotiations.
Though small in trade volume, these minerals are foundational to jet engines, aerospace alloys, 5G chips, and advanced manufacturing.
The message is clear: supply chain fragility is now a national security issue.
Key Developments
1. Yttrium: Aerospace Production at Risk
Yttrium is essential for high-temperature ceramic coatings that prevent jet engines and turbines from melting under extreme heat.
Without these coatings:
Engines cannot safely operate.
Aircraft production timelines face disruption.
Defense manufacturing becomes vulnerable.
Since export controls tightened:
Yttrium prices have surged roughly 60%.
Current prices are reportedly nearly 70 times higher than a year ago.
North American coating manufacturers have paused production.
Suppliers are rationing material and prioritizing major aerospace clients.
Planemakers like Boeing and Airbus are already operating under delivery pressure. A sustained disruption could ripple through global aviation supply chains.
Strategic Impact:
Even small mineral disruptions can threaten multi-billion-dollar aerospace output.
2. Scandium: Semiconductor and 5G Vulnerabilities
Scandium production globally amounts to only a few dozen tons per year — yet it is vital for:
High-performance aluminum alloys
Fuel cells
5G chip manufacturing
Major U.S. semiconductor producers rely on scandium-containing components in nearly every 5G smartphone and base station.
However:
U.S. domestic production is currently nonexistent.
Export licensing delays from China have slowed shipments.
Stockpiles may last months — not years.
Chinese authorities now require detailed end-user declarations for export licenses — a move some U.S. officials believe directly targets the semiconductor sector.
Strategic Impact:
Control over scandium effectively gives Beijing leverage over next-generation telecommunications infrastructure.
3. Export Controls as Strategic Leverage
Although China resumed some rare earth exports after earlier restrictions, shipments of yttrium and scandium to the U.S. remain sharply reduced.
This selective easing underscores a broader pattern:
China’s dominance in niche minerals provides disproportionate geopolitical influence.
Rare earths are no longer just trade commodities — they are tools of statecraft.
The issue is expected to surface prominently during upcoming U.S.–China discussions in Beijing.
Why It Matters
This episode reveals three structural realities:
Supply chain concentration equals strategic vulnerability.
Rare earth dominance offers leverage without full embargoes.
Licensing delays alone can generate economic anxiety and price spikes.
Even without a complete export ban, uncertainty creates:
Price volatility
Production rationing
Strategic recalibration by manufacturers
Supply Chains Under Siege as Resource Power Shifts
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
For those watching global financial realignment:
Critical mineral control increasingly influences currency power dynamics.
Trade leverage affects capital flows and supply chain geography.
Industrial security now intersects with monetary stability.
Nations that control resources gain negotiating strength in trade and financial frameworks.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Resource Nationalism Accelerates
Rare earth dependency reinforces a shift toward friend-shoring and regional supply chains.
Pillar 2: Strategic Commodities Redefine Economic Power
Control over niche materials like yttrium and scandium carries leverage beyond traditional oil dominance.
The rare earth squeeze is a reminder:
Industrial sovereignty is becoming as important as monetary sovereignty.
Conclusion
The current shortages demonstrate how even limited export controls can ripple through critical industries. Yttrium and scandium represent tiny fractions of global trade — yet their absence can halt production lines central to aerospace and semiconductor dominance.
As Trump and Xi prepare for talks, rare earth access may shape the tone — and outcome — of broader economic negotiations.
Whether this moment produces supply relief or deeper strategic competition will influence the next chapter of U.S.–China relations.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Modern Diplomacy — “Rare Earth Squeeze Deepens for U.S. Aerospace and Chipmakers”
Reuters — “China Rare Earth Export Controls and U.S. Industry Impact”
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🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱
If you’ve been holding foreign currency for many years, you were not foolish.
You were not wrong to believe the global financial system would change.
What failed was not your patience — it was the information you were given.
For years, dates, rumors, and personalities replaced facts, structure, and proof. “This week” predictions created cycles of hope and disappointment that were never based on how currencies actually change.
That is not your failure.
Our mission here is different: • No dates • No rates • No hype • No gurus
Instead, we focus on:
• Verifiable developments • Institutional evidence
• Global financial structure • Where countries actually sit in the process
Currency value changes only come after sovereignty, trade, banking, settlement systems, and fiscal coordination are in place. History and institutions confirm this sequence.
You will see silence. You will see denials. That is not delay — that is discipline.
Protect your identity. Organize your documents. Verify everything.
Never hand your discernment to anyone who cannot show proof.
You deserve truth — not timelines.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News
~~~~~~~~~~
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Thank you Dinar Recaps
Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Thursday Morning 2-26-26
The International Monetary Fund Approves The Disbursement Of $2.3 Billion To An Arab Country.
Money and Business Economy News — Follow-up The International Monetary Fund has approved the fifth and sixth reviews of Egypt’s Extended Fund Facility arrangement and the first review of its Resilience and Strength Program, making available $2.3 billion in financing, according to a statement issued by the Fund.
The International Monetary Fund Approves The Disbursement Of $2.3 Billion To An Arab Country.
Money and Business Economy News — Follow-up The International Monetary Fund has approved the fifth and sixth reviews of Egypt’s Extended Fund Facility arrangement and the first review of its Resilience and Strength Program, making available $2.3 billion in financing, according to a statement issued by the Fund.
The IMF also approved a two-month extension of the Extended Fund Facility program, to end in December 2026, after it was originally scheduled to last 46 months starting in December 2022.
The IMF said in the statement that the macroeconomic situation in Egypt has improved under continued efforts to achieve stability; tight monetary and fiscal policies, along with a flexible exchange rate, have contributed to restoring macroeconomic stability, reducing inflation rates, and strengthening the external position.
He noted that, in contrast, progress in implementing deeper structural reforms has been uneven, and accelerating the pace of implementation – particularly reducing the state’s economic footprint and leveling the playing field – remains crucial to ensuring sustainable and inclusive private sector-led growth.
The Fund reviewed the most prominent indicators of economic improvement, most notably the rise in economic growth to 4.4% in the last fiscal year, and the decline in inflation to 11.9% in January, supported by monetary and fiscal tightening policies.
Current Account Deficit Narrowing
He noted that the current account deficit had narrowed to 4.2% of GDP, driven by strong remittances from workers abroad and tourism revenues.
He added that market confidence in the Egyptian economy has improved significantly, as evidenced by the country's ability to issue debt instruments in global markets, along with increased foreign direct investment flows and short-term capital inflows.
The statement noted that the flexibility of the exchange rate led to an increase in total international reserves from $54.9 billion in December 2024 to about $59.2 billion by the end of December 2025.
Implementing two key reform measures
He said that financial performance had improved, supported by higher tax revenues, despite a decline in public investments.
He added that the initial surplus was less than the target set in the program, due to the failure to achieve the planned exit returns.
He noted that the implementation of resilience reforms is progressing at a good pace, and that the authorities have implemented two key reform measures, including the publication of a timetable for implementing renewable energy targets, and the issuance of a directive obliging banks to monitor and disclose their exposure to climate change risks.
Slight Increase In Exchange Rates In Iraqi Markets
Money and Business Economy News – Baghdad The exchange rate of the US dollar witnessed a slight increase in the markets of the capital, Baghdad, on Thursday morning.
The exchange rate of the dollar in the Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya stock exchanges in Baghdad was recorded at 153,800 Iraqi dinars for every 100 dollars, compared to 153,750 dinars yesterday.
In currency exchange shops in Baghdad's local markets, the selling price stabilized at 154,250 dinars per 100 dollars, while the buying price reached 153,250 dinars. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=66104
Iraq was the second largest destination for Jordanian exports during January.
Money and Business Economy News – Baghdad The Amman Chamber of Commerce revealed on Thursday that Iraq ranked second among destinations for Jordanian exports during the month of January.
The Chamber stated in a report that the value of Oman's trade exports during January amounted to 155 million dinars, compared to 116 million dinars during the same period last year, an increase of 32.2%.
She indicated that Iraq came in second place as the largest importer of Jordanian goods in terms of the value of certificates of origin, amounting to 47 million dinars, with 206 certificates, while Switzerland came in first with about 52 million dinars and 8 certificates.
Next came Saudi Arabia with 8 million dinars, with 223 certificates, followed by Syria with 7 million dinars with 600 certificates, and Egypt with 6 million dinars with 55 certificates. This group of countries is among the top five in terms of value.
The Chamber added that Jordanian exports were diverse according to the type of goods, as foreign products not manufactured in Jordan constituted the largest part with a value of about 60 million dinars, while the value of Jordanian industrial products amounted to about 17 million dinars, and products of Arab origin amounted to 12 million dinars, agricultural products to 10 million dinars, and the remainder went to other products.
A certificate of origin is a fundamental document in international trade, as it proves that the goods produced or manufactured in a particular shipment were produced in a particular country, and is used to determine the customs definition and verify the origin of the goods. The Jordanian dinar is worth 70 dinars to 100 dollars. https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=66108
PM Stresses The Importance Of Achieving The Highest Levels Of Coordination And Intelligence Sharing
INA–Baghdad The Prime Minister's Media Office stated in a press release received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA) that "Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, chaired a meeting of the National Intelligence Council today."
"The meeting addressed the security situation across the country, reviewed the performance of security and intelligence agencies and their duties in various sectors, and discussed efforts to confront current challenges in light of regional developments, with the aim of strengthening the country's security and stability," according to the statement.
The Commander-in-Chief stressed the importance of optimal operational coordination among the various branches of the security forces.
Al-Sudani emphasized the necessity of achieving the highest levels of coordination and intelligence cooperation and working to provide all the requirements for the success of the security plans prepared in this context
FRANK26…2-25-26….CANADA BANK STORY
KTFA
Wednesday Night Video
FRANK26…2-25-26….CANADA BANK STORY
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie and Omar in Iraq and guests
Playback Number: 605-313-5163 PIN: 156996#
KTFA
Wednesday Night Video
FRANK26…2-25-26….CANADA BANK STORY
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie and Omar in Iraq and guests
Playback Number: 605-313-5163 PIN: 156996#
FRANK26….2-25.26…..CANADA
KTFA
Wednesday Night Video
FRANK26….2-25.26…..CANADA
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie and Omar in Iraq and guests
Playback Number: 605-313-5163 PIN: 156996#
KTFA
Wednesday Night Video
FRANK26….2-25.26…..CANADA
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie and Omar in Iraq and guests
Playback Number: 605-313-5163 PIN: 156996#
Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Late Wednesday Evening 2-25-26
The Iraqi Trade Bank Responds To Al-Karbouli Regarding "Transfer Exceptions".
Banks The Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI) affirmed on Wednesday its full commitment to the directives of the Central Bank of Iraq and regulatory authorities, clarifying that all international transfers executed through the Central Bank of Iraq's platform are subject to proper notification and approval.
The Iraqi Trade Bank Responds To Al-Karbouli Regarding "Transfer Exceptions".
Banks The Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI) affirmed on Wednesday its full commitment to the directives of the Central Bank of Iraq and regulatory authorities, clarifying that all international transfers executed through the Central Bank of Iraq's platform are subject to proper notification and approval.
In a statement, the bank said, "With reference to the remarks made by MP Mohammed Al-Karbouli during his appearance on a television program regarding a problem with transfers and his claim of granting exceptions, we would like to clarify that all international transfers executed through the Central Bank of Iraq's platform are subject to proper notification and approval and are carried out in accordance with applicable regulations and instructions.
The Central Bank and relevant regulatory authorities are provided with the relevant documentation after execution." The statement added, "No transfer can be executed without being submitted to an external auditing firm to conduct due diligence and obtain the necessary approvals, in accordance with established procedures. There are no exceptions or exceptions outside the legal framework." The bank further stated,
"The issue raised regarding invoices and their reuse is subject to the nature of the contract between the customer and the supplier and is within the framework of applicable regulations and instructions. It does not constitute a violation as long as it is carried out according to established procedures."
The bank asserted that "the information presented during the program is not based on accurate facts, and such information negatively impacts the bank's reputation and the trust of its clients both domestically and internationally."
It further explained, "The MP should have addressed the bank officially in writing or visited it to inquire and ascertain the facts, rather than disseminating this information through television. This is the proper procedure for regulatory bodies. Therefore, the bank reserves the right to take the necessary legal measures to protect its reputation and standing, and to ensure transparency for the public."
The bank, according to the statement, affirmed its "full commitment to the directives of the Central Bank of Iraq and regulatory authorities, and its dedication to operating with the highest levels of professionalism and transparency in service of the national economy." https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=66072
Al-Rasheed Bank Announces An Increase In The Deposit Limit For The "Nakheel" Card To 25 Million Dinars.
banks Economy News – Baghdad Al-Rasheed Bank announced on Wednesday an increase in the deposit limit for its Nakheel card to 25 million Iraqi dinars.
In a statement received by Al-Eqtisad News, the bank said, "The bank has decided to increase the deposit limit for the Nakheel card to 25 million Iraqi dinars in a move aimed at expanding banking services offered to cardholders and enhancing the flexibility of financial transactions."
The bank explained that "this decision comes as part of its plan to develop electronic banking products and facilitate deposit, withdrawal, and transfer operations in line with the requirements of customers benefiting from the card's services."
The bank emphasized that "this increase will allow Nakheel cardholders to manage their funds with a higher limit, which will contribute to supporting daily financial activities and simplifying banking procedures."
Gold Prices Flat In Baghdad, Tick Up In Erbil
2026-02-25 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil On Wednesday, gold prices stabilized near 1.12 million IQD per mithqal in Baghdad, while Erbil markets edged higher, with 21-carat gold rising by about 12,000 IQD per mithqal, according to a survey by Shafaq News Agency.
Gold prices on Baghdad's Al-Nahr Street recorded a selling price of 1.120 million IQD per mithqal (equivalent to five grams) for 21-carat gold, including Gulf, Turkish, and European varieties, with a buying price of 1.116 million IQD, unchanged from Tuesday.
The selling price for 21-carat Iraqi gold stood at 1.090 million IQD, while the buying price reached 1.086 million IQD.
In jewelry stores, the selling price per mithqal of 21-carat Gulf gold ranged between 1.120 million and 1.130 million IQD, while Iraqi gold sold for between 1.090 million and 1.100 million IQD.
In Erbil, 22-carat gold was sold at 1.190 million IQD per mithqal, 21-carat gold at 1.137 million IQD, and 18-carat gold at 975,000 IQD. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-prices-flat-in-Baghdad-tick-up-in-Erbil
USD/IQD Exchange Rates Climb In Baghdad And Erbil
2026-02-25 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil The US dollar opened Wednesday’s trading higher in Iraq, hovering around 154,000 dinars per 100 dollars.
According to a Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded in Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges at 153,750 dinars per 100 dollars, up from the previous session’s 153,300 dinars.
In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 154,250 dinars and bought it at 153,250 dinars, while in Erbil, selling prices stood at 153,500 dinars and buying prices at 153,450 dinars.
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/USD-IQD-exchange-rates-climb-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil-6-9
Dollar Steadies In Baghdad, Slips In Erbil
2026-02-25 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil The US dollar closed Wednesday’s trading flat in Baghdad, hovering near 154,000 dinars per 100 dollars, while edging lower by about 150 dinars in Erbil.
According to a Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded in Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges at 153,750 dinars per 100 dollars, unchanged from the morning session.
In the Iraqi capital, exchange shops sold the dollar at 154,250 dinars and bought it at 153,250 dinars, while in Erbil, selling prices stood at 153,300 dinars and buying prices at 153,200 dinars.
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-steadies-in-Baghdad-slips-in-Erbil
Iraq’s Basrah Crude Slips More Than 1% Despite Global Gains
2026-02-25 Shafaq News- Baghdad Iraq’s Basrah Heavy crude fell to $67.35 per barrel on Wednesday, down 79 cents, or 1.16%, in the latest trading session.
Basrah Medium declined to $69.60 per barrel, also losing 79 cents, marking a 1.12% decrease.
Brent crude traded at $71.26 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate stood at $66.02, as markets monitored US–Iran talks and rising tensions that could affect global oil supplies.
Iraq, OPEC’s second-largest oil producer, exports roughly 70% of its crude to Asia, 20% to Europe, and 10% to the United States.
Oil Prices Near Seven-Month Highs On US-Iran Tensions
2026-02-25 Shafaq News Oil prices were hovering near seven-month highs on Wednesday as the threat of military conflict between the US and Iran that could disrupt supply continued to worry investors as talks between the parties are set for Thursday.
Brent futures were up 43 cents, or 0.6%, at $71.20 per barrel at 0400 GMT. WTI futures rose 38 cents, or 0.6%, to $66.01.
Brent prices reached their highest since July 31 on Friday, while WTI hit its highest since August 4 on Monday, and both contracts have held near there as the US has positioned military forces in the Middle East to compel Iran to negotiate an end to its nuclear and ballistic missile program.
An extended conflict could disrupt supplies from Iran, the third-biggest crude producer in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, and other countries in the key Middle East producing region.
"This uncertainty means the market will continue to price in a large risk premium and remain sensitive to any fresh developments," ING commodities strategists said on Wednesday.
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are slated to meet with an Iranian delegation for a third round of talks on Thursday in Geneva.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchisaidon Tuesday that a deal with the US was "within reach, but only if diplomacy is given priority".
"(US) President (Donald) Trump has warned that without a deal, there will be 'very bad consequences'. Whether (Iran's) concessions will meet the US's 'zero enrichment' red line remains to be seen," Tony Sycamore, IG market analyst, said in a note.
Amid the heightened tensions, Iran and China haveacceleratedtalks to purchase Chinese anti‑ship cruise missiles, according to Reuters sources, which could target the US naval forces that have assembled near the Iranian coast.
Anti‑ship cruise missiles would enhance Iran's strike capabilities and threaten the US naval forces, according to experts.
Trump will deliver the traditional State of the Union address to Congress on Tuesday evening. Two White House officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Trump will discuss his plans for Iran but did not offer details.
While geopolitical tensions have supported prices, the market is also contending with concerns of large inventory gains as global supply is exceeding demand.
According to market sources, the American Petroleum Institute late on Tuesday reported a massive increase in US oil stockpiles of 11.43 million barrels in the week ended February 20.
However, gasoline and distillate inventories fell, the sources said, citing the API data.
Official US oil inventory reports from the Energy Information Administration are due later on Wednesday.
(Reuters) https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-prices-near-seven-month-highs-on-US-Iran-tensions
The Luddites Were Wrong In 1811 The AI Doomsayers Will Be Wrong Today
The Luddites Were Wrong In 1811. The AI Doomsayers Will Be Wrong Today
Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black) Sovereign Man February 24, 2026
In 1779, in a textile workshop in the English village of Anstey, a young apprentice named Ned Ludd was put to work on a knitting machine — one of the large mechanical frames that wove thread into stockings. He was too slow. His master had him whipped for it.
So Ned grabbed a hammer and smashed the machine to pieces.
The Luddites Were Wrong In 1811. The AI Doomsayers Will Be Wrong Today
Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black) Sovereign Man February 24, 2026
In 1779, in a textile workshop in the English village of Anstey, a young apprentice named Ned Ludd was put to work on a knitting machine — one of the large mechanical frames that wove thread into stockings. He was too slow. His master had him whipped for it.
So Ned grabbed a hammer and smashed the machine to pieces.
The story spread across England’s textile country. Over the next thirty years, Ned Ludd became a folk hero for every worker who felt threatened by the new machines that were pouring into their factories.
Now, the story is probably a myth — there’s no hard evidence Ned Ludd ever actually existed. But it didn’t matter. The movement that took his name was very real.
In March 1811, textile workers across England’s industrial heartland began breaking into factories at night, smashing power looms with sledgehammers. They called themselves Luddites. Over 200 machines were destroyed in the first month alone.
It was all motivated by fear; workers were terrified that machines would take their jobs and steal their livelihoods.
But think about the world back then: in the early 1800s when the Luddites were smashing looms, roughly 90% of the world’s population lived in what today would be considered extreme poverty.
Life expectancy in England was only about 35. One in three children didn’t make it to their fifth birthday. Houses were tiny. Food was scarce. Clean drinking water was a luxury. Heating your home meant an open fire, and most of the warmth went up the chimney. Indoor plumbing didn’t exist. Neither did antibiotics, electricity, or refrigeration.
That was normal life in 1811. But fast forward just over two hundred years.
Extreme global poverty has fallen from 90% to under 10%. Life expectancy has more than doubled. The poorest American today — not the wealthy, the average person — has access to more information, nutrition, comfort, and opportunity than the richest king on earth could have imagined in 1811.
Our homes are bigger. Our food is more plentiful. Our energy supplies are more abundant… and far more efficient.
And the reason is technology.
Every major leap in human prosperity has followed the same basic mechanism: new technology makes people more productive. More productivity increases supply of goods and services. More supply means lower prices. Lower prices mean more prosperity for everyone.
At the same time, there is always some short-term pain. Entire vocations and industries disappear… and that sudden change can be both difficult and scary.
But think about it— in literally EVERY major technological advancement throughout history, overall employment went UP. Economies prospered. Workers prospered.
That’s the great fear sweeping the world right now regarding artificial intelligence, and a lot of people are worried.
Earlier this month, for example, a viral essay by an AI startup CEO tore across the Internet and was viewed more than 80 million times.
His thesis: AI will have a COVID-level impact on the world, and the industry right now is the equivalent of being back in January 2020. Everything feels normal at the moment. But he believes that life will be unrecognizable (just like during Covid) in just a few months.
But while Covid was temporary, he believes the AI impact will be permanent.
Amazingly enough, due to this one viral essay, investors began dumping their stocks, triggering a major selloff.
Cybersecurity stock CrowdStrike, for example, dropped roughly 16% in days. Travel companies like TripAdvisor are down nearly 30%.
Financial firms like Charles Schwab and Raymond James fell 7% to 9% in a single session. Software giants like Salesforce and ServiceNow have shed a quarter to a third of their value.
All told, roughly $2 trillion in market value has been wiped off software stocks alone.
The logic behind the selloff is: if AI can scan code for security vulnerabilities, why do you need CrowdStrike? If an AI agent can plan your entire trip, book flights, and find the best hotel, why do you need TripAdvisor? If a chatbot can manage a portfolio or draft a financial plan, why are you paying Raymond James?
Investors looked at these industries and decided that AI wasn’t just going to help these companies — it was going to replace them. And they sold.
It’s amazing how overblown this is.
People said the same things about the Industrial Revolution — that machines would make human labor obsolete and destroy the working class.
They said it about personal computers in the 1980s — that automation would wipe out office jobs.
They said it about the Internet in the late 1990s — that e-commerce would obliterate entire sectors of the economy.
Every single time, the prophets of technological doom were wrong.
The reality is that, of course, some industries and vocations go away. But advances in technology have never led to sustained, long-term, widespread unemployment.
New industries emerge. New skills become valuable. The economy adapts. And the overall standard of living goes up.
But all along the way, there are always the self-interested evangelists insisting that THIS time is different. THIS technology is uniquely disruptive.
Yes, AI is obviously a massive advancement. It’s going to reshape industries. And plenty of businesses that exist today won’t survive the transition. That’s the nature of progress.
But the idea that we’re all going to be starving in the streets because a chatbot can draft a legal brief or scan code for security bugs is ludicrous.
Technology always makes people more prosperous and better off. It might not be crystal clear right now exactly how that plays out with AI. Early stages of a technology boom are never clear.
But the notion that one person’s viral essay could wipe trillions from global financial markets is peak paranoia.
The Luddites were wrong in 1811. The AI doomsayers will be wrong today.
To your freedom, James Hickman Co-Founder, Schiff Sovereign LLC
P.S. Technology has never destroyed prosperity. But reckless governments have — over and over again, for thousands of years.
The US national debt is over $38 trillion. Annual deficits are running at nearly $2 trillion. And neither party has any intention of doing anything about it.
Every month in Schiff Sovereign Premium, we dig into exactly where this is heading — the debt, the dollar, the historical parallels — and how to position yourself to benefit from what comes next.
Is the US Headed Toward a Gold Reset?
Is the US Headed Toward a Gold Reset?
Arcadia Economics: 2-24-2026
As we step into 2026, the world of finance is abuzz with discussions about the evolving dynamics of the gold and silver markets, the future of the US dollar, and the implications of rising global debt and geopolitical tensions.
In a recent, in-depth conversation with Chris Marcus of Arcadia Economics, Michael McNair, a seasoned asset manager with a focus on precious metals and macroeconomic trends, shared his expert insights on these pressing issues.
Is the US Headed Toward a Gold Reset?
Arcadia Economics: 2-24-2026
As we step into 2026, the world of finance is abuzz with discussions about the evolving dynamics of the gold and silver markets, the future of the US dollar, and the implications of rising global debt and geopolitical tensions.
In a recent, in-depth conversation with Chris Marcus of Arcadia Economics, Michael McNair, a seasoned asset manager with a focus on precious metals and macroeconomic trends, shared his expert insights on these pressing issues.
The discussion provides a fascinating glimpse into the potential shifts in global monetary policy and the role that gold and silver are poised to play in the years to come.
One of the key highlights of the conversation is McNair’s analysis of the Trump Administrationn’s influence on monetary and fiscal coordination.
According to McNair, the Trump Administration is expected to have a significant impact on the coordination between monetary and fiscal policies, potentially leading to a more synchronized approach that could have far-reaching consequences for the global economy.
A significant part of the discussion revolves around the anticipated changes in leadership at the Federal Reserve, with Christopher Worsh potentially being appointed as the new Fed Chair.
McNair shares his thoughts on how this change could influence monetary policy and the dollar’s standing in the global financial system.
The potential dismantling of the current dollar-centric monetary system is also explored, with McNair suggesting that we are on the cusp of a significant shift away from the dollar’s dominance.
A crucial aspect of the conversation is the evolving role of gold in the global financial landscape.
McNair emphasizes that gold is transitioning from being merely a hedge against US solvency issues to becoming a crucial reserve asset that will play a key role in balancing global trade imbalances.
This shift underscores the growing recognition of gold’s importance in the global monetary system, beyond its traditional role as a safe-haven asset.
The discussion also delves into the dynamics of the silver market, highlighting the industrial demand for silver as a critical factor that will influence its price and utility in the global economy. McNair touches on the dynamics of capital flows and trade deficits, providing insights into how these macroeconomic trends will impact the precious metals market.
One of the most compelling aspects of the conversation is the anticipation of a prolonged and potentially painful transition to a new global monetary order.
McNair suggests that this transition will be characterized by significant adjustments in the global financial system, with implications for investors, policymakers, and the broader economy.
In a related development, the conversation briefly highlights the impressive 2025 earnings of First Majestic Silver, a mining company that has benefited from the surge in silver prices.
The correlation between the company’s performance and the silver price underscores the potential for significant returns in the precious metals sector, particularly in companies with strong operational fundamentals.
As the global economy navigates the complexities of rising debt, geopolitical tensions, and shifting monetary policies, the insights shared by Michael McNair provide valuable perspectives for investors and policymakers alike.
The conversation with Chris Marcus offers a nuanced understanding of the evolving dynamics in the gold and silver markets and the broader implications for the global monetary system.
Ariel: The Accelerating Collapse of the Petrodollar in 2026
Ariel: The Accelerating Collapse of the Petrodollar in 2026
2-24-2026
Things Are Coming Down To The Wire: The Birth Of A New Power (Removing The Access) You Are In Prime Position
The Accelerating Collapse of the Petrodollar in 2026: Mechanics, Triggers, Iran/Iraq Nexus, and the Endgame for Dollar Hegemony
The petrodollar isn’t dying quietly in its sleep it’s being gutted alive, entrails spilling across the board as we speak. This isn’t some gentle “evolution” peddled by think-tank suits; it’s a structural hemorrhage that began decades ago and hit arterial spray in 2024-2025.
Ariel: The Accelerating Collapse of the Petrodollar in 2026
2-24-2026
Things Are Coming Down To The Wire: The Birth Of A New Power (Removing The Access) You Are In Prime Position
The Accelerating Collapse of the Petrodollar in 2026: Mechanics, Triggers, Iran/Iraq Nexus, and the Endgame for Dollar Hegemony
The petrodollar isn’t dying quietly in its sleep it’s being gutted alive, entrails spilling across the board as we speak. This isn’t some gentle “evolution” peddled by think-tank suits; it’s a structural hemorrhage that began decades ago and hit arterial spray in 2024-2025.
The core mechanism: oil priced and settled exclusively in USD created artificial, perpetual demand for dollars every barrel bought forced nations to hoard greenbacks, recycle surpluses into U.S. Treasuries, and keep the American debt machine lubricated. That monopoly is fracturing at warp speed in 2026.
Non-dollar oil trades jumped from near-zero to 20%+ globally by late 2025, BRICS pipelines are pumping yuan/ruble/rupee settlements at scale, and the old 1974 Saudi recycling pact (informal but ironclad) has effectively lapsed without renewal pressure.
Venezuela’s seizure in January 2026 wasn’t humanitarian theater it was a desperate U.S. lunge to claw back pricing power and force a “Petrodollar 2.0” revival. But the math doesn’t lie: once Iran falls and Iraq breathes free, the system hemorrhages irreversibly.
Iraq is the kill shot. CBI Governor Ali al-Alaq publicly denies any imminent exchange-rate shift or massive RV (as of February 2026), but the undercurrents scream otherwise: aggressive de-dollarization via POS rollout, electronic platforms to choke dollar smuggling, SWIFT integration for transparency, and gold reserve buildup positioning Iraq as a regional heavyweight.
The “delete three zeros” redenomination project remains live structural prep for a stronger dinar once stability hits.
Trump’s Venezuela grab (seizing Maduro, eyeing PDVSA reserves) was the dress rehearsal: force a compliant regime, flood markets with dollar-priced barrels to buy time, but the real prize is Baghdad.
Post-Iran strikes, Iraq stabilizes, Development Road ($17B corridor) links to BRICS trade arteries, and digital dinar launches on XRPL-style rails backed by oil/gold. Dollar oil trades in the region crater.
BRICS expands the playbook: Russia-China 99% non-dollar bilateral, India rupee-Russian oil, Brazil-China yuan-real pacts all scaling in 2026.
The petrodollar’s recycling loop (oil dollars → Treasuries → U.S. deficit funding) snaps when 30-40% of global energy settles outside USD.
Endgame in 2026 is multipolar monetary carnage. No single BRICS currency dethrones the dollar overnight it’s death by a thousand cuts: tokenized payments, commodity-backed digital units, regional blocs settling in local currencies.
Oil glut forecasts for 2026 (Venezuela barrels flooding back under U.S. control) might temporarily prop prices, but the structural shift is irreversible. Dollar share in reserves already at multi-decade lows (~58%), forex transactions slipping, petroyuan creeping in.
The U.S. either adapts (proactive pivot to digital dollar dominance, alliances with BRICS outliers) or reacts defensively (more interventions, tariffs, weaponized finance) but the empire’s monetary backbone is cracked.
Iran removal + Iraq freedom = petrodollar funeral pyre. The deepstate knows it.
Read Full Article: https://www.patreon.com/posts/things-are-down-151553441
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Wednesday Afternoon 2-25-26
Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,
Tariffs Instead of Income Tax? Trump Floats Radical Revenue Shift in SOTU
Proposal signals potential restructuring of U.S. taxation, trade policy, and global capital flows
Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,
Tariffs Instead of Income Tax? Trump Floats Radical Revenue Shift in SOTU
Proposal signals potential restructuring of U.S. taxation, trade policy, and global capital flows
Overview
During his State of the Union address, President Donald Trump stated that tariffs could eventually replace the federal income tax.
The remark immediately ignited debate across economic, political, and financial circles. While presented as a populist fiscal shift, the implications extend far beyond campaign rhetoric.
Replacing income tax with tariffs would fundamentally restructure how the United States funds its government — shifting the burden from domestic wage earners to imported goods and foreign producers.
This is not a minor policy tweak. It is a potential redefinition of America’s revenue model.
Key Developments
1. Tariffs as Primary Revenue Engine
Trump suggested that revenue collected from import duties could substitute for federal income taxes.
Strategic Implication:
The U.S. federal government collected over $2 trillion annually from individual income taxes in recent years. Tariffs historically generate only a fraction of that amount. To replace income tax entirely would require dramatically higher tariff rates or broad-based import levies.
Such a move would transform trade policy into fiscal policy.
2. Return to Pre-1913 Revenue Model
Before the ratification of the Sixteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, the federal government relied heavily on tariffs and excise taxes.
Strategic Implication:
Reversing over a century of tax structure would require constitutional, legislative, and economic recalibration. It would also mark a symbolic shift toward economic nationalism reminiscent of late 19th-century trade frameworks.
The question becomes whether modern global supply chains can withstand a 19th-century revenue strategy.
3. Trade Policy Becomes Domestic Tax Policy
If tariffs replace income tax:
Imported goods become more expensive.
Domestic manufacturing gains protective advantage.
Consumers effectively pay tax through higher prices.
Trade partners likely retaliate.
Strategic Implication:
This reframes taxation as an externalized cost — shifting fiscal extraction from paychecks to consumption patterns.
However, the globalized nature of supply chains means cost increases would ripple through virtually every sector.
4. Global Market Reaction and Legal Hurdles
Implementing such a shift would require congressional approval and potentially new trade authority legislation. It would also invite World Trade Organization disputes and retaliatory tariffs from major trading partners.
Strategic Implication:
If enacted, the move could accelerate:
De-dollarization conversations
Bilateral trade blocs
Strategic “friendshoring”
Fragmentation of global trade norms
In essence, fiscal restructuring could catalyze geopolitical restructuring.
Why It Matters
This proposal intersects three high-stakes arenas:
Domestic Tax Policy
International Trade Architecture
Global Reserve Currency Stability
Income tax provides predictable revenue. Tariffs fluctuate with trade volume and economic cycles. Shifting to tariff dependency introduces volatility into federal budgeting.
Markets would need to reprice risk across equities, bonds, and commodities.
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
From a global reset perspective, several implications emerge:
Dollar Demand Dynamics: Tariffs can strengthen short-term dollar demand but weaken long-term trade relationships.
Inflationary Pressure: Higher import costs feed domestic inflation, impacting monetary policy.
Trade Bloc Acceleration: Countries may deepen regional trade arrangements to bypass U.S. tariff exposure.
If the United States reorients toward tariff-driven funding, global settlement patterns could shift accordingly.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Sovereign Revenue Sovereignty
Governments may reconsider domestic taxation models amid rising debt burdens.
Pillar 2: Trade as Strategic Weapon
Tariffs would no longer be negotiation tools — they would become structural fiscal instruments.
The deeper theme: economic policy is merging with geopolitical strategy.
Replacing income tax with tariffs would represent one of the most significant fiscal transformations in modern U.S. history.
Whether rhetorical or actionable, the statement signals a willingness to challenge entrenched economic frameworks.
This is not just campaign messaging — it is a signal flare in the broader debate over sovereignty, trade, and the architecture of global finance.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Reuters — “Trump Proposes Expanding Tariffs in State of the Union Address”
U.S. Constitution Center — “The Sixteenth Amendment and the Federal Income Tax”
~~~~~~~~~~
BRICS at a Crossroads: What If Russia Returns to the U.S. Dollar?
Would Moscow’s pivot reshape the de-dollarization movement — or merely slow it down?
Overview
For years, the BRICS bloc has promoted local currency trade to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar. After sweeping Western sanctions in 2022, Russia became one of the most aggressive advocates of de-dollarization.
Now, reports suggest Moscow may seek renewed access to the U.S. dollar system through a potential trade deal requiring approval from Donald Trump.
If true, the move would represent a strategic U-turn — and could significantly reshape the trajectory of BRICS’ monetary ambitions.
Key Developments
1. Russia’s De-Dollarization Drive Post-2022
After sanctions cut Russian banks from Western financial channels, Moscow accelerated trade settlement in:
Rubles
Yuan
Rupees
Dirhams
Reports indicate nearly 90% of trade with China and India shifted to local currencies.
Strategic Implication:
Russia’s push appeared ideological — but it may have been primarily sanctions-driven pragmatism. If dollar access returns, motivation for aggressive de-dollarization may weaken.
2. Potential U.S. Dollar Re-Entry
If Russia regains broader access to dollar settlement:
Cross-border energy sales could return to dollar pricing.
Russian banks could re-engage global clearing systems.
Pressure on alternative payment systems could ease.
Strategic Implication:
A Russian pivot back to the dollar would slow BRICS’ collective momentum toward alternative financial architecture.
It would not necessarily end de-dollarization — but it would blunt its urgency.
3. BRICS Is Bigger Than Russia
Even if Moscow recalibrates, other BRICS members maintain independent agendas:
China continues internationalizing the yuan for trade settlement.
India promotes rupee trade via special Vostro accounts.
Brazil and South Africa pursue diversified trade partnerships aligned with national interests.
Strategic Implication:
The de-dollarization effort would likely shift from coordinated acceleration to fragmented progression.
China, in particular, has long-term structural goals that extend beyond Russia’s immediate needs.
4. Narrative Shift: Ideology vs. Necessity
If Russia returns to dollar usage, it reinforces a powerful conclusion:
De-dollarization may have been less about dismantling dollar dominance — and more about surviving sanctions.
Strategic Implication:
Global markets could interpret the move as evidence that dollar liquidity remains indispensable during geopolitical stress.
That perception alone strengthens the greenback’s reserve status.
Why It Matters
This potential shift tests whether BRICS de-dollarization is:
A permanent structural realignment
orA tactical response to Western sanctions
If Russia re-enters the dollar system, it signals that financial access outweighs monetary sovereignty when economic pressure mounts.
Markets would likely interpret the move as:
Short-term bullish for the dollar
Moderately bearish for alternative settlement systems
A pause — not a reversal — of multipolar currency ambitions
Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders
For those watching global monetary restructuring:
A slowdown in de-dollarization may extend the dollar’s dominance cycle.
Yuan internationalization continues regardless.
Fragmentation of payment systems remains a long-term theme.
The global reset narrative does not disappear — it simply evolves at a slower pace.
Momentum shifts, but structural pressures persist.
Implications for the Global Reset
Pillar 1: Dollar Resilience Under Pressure
Even after sanctions and political weaponization, the dollar remains the system most nations ultimately seek access to.
Pillar 2: Multipolar Finance — Delayed, Not Denied
BRICS ambitions may slow, but structural drivers (debt burdens, sanctions risk, trade fragmentation) remain intact.
If Russia pivots back to the dollar, it reveals a key truth:
Access to liquidity still trumps ideology.
Conclusion
A Russian return to dollar settlement would not dismantle BRICS — but it would reshape expectations.
The alliance’s de-dollarization agenda would likely continue at a reduced pace, increasingly driven by China’s long-term strategy rather than Russia’s immediate necessity.
The bigger question becomes:
Is de-dollarization a revolution — or simply leverage in negotiation?
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Watcher Guru — “What Happens to BRICS If Russia Returns to the US Dollar?”
Reuters — “Russia Expands Local Currency Trade Amid Sanctions Pressure”
~~~~~~~~~~
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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Evening 2-25-26
An Economist Says Reforming Private Banks Is Key To Stabilizing The Dollar And Boosting Confidence In The Financial Market.
Baghdad Today – Baghdad Economic expert Ahmed Abdel Rabbo confirmed on Wednesday (February 25, 2026) that the Central Bank of Iraq has taken a series of measures during the past period aimed at controlling the exchange market and enhancing financial stability, in light of the monetary challenges that Iraq has recently witnessed.
An Economist Says Reforming Private Banks Is Key To Stabilizing The Dollar And Boosting Confidence In The Financial Market.
Baghdad Today – Baghdad Economic expert Ahmed Abdel Rabbo confirmed on Wednesday (February 25, 2026) that the Central Bank of Iraq has taken a series of measures during the past period aimed at controlling the exchange market and enhancing financial stability, in light of the monetary challenges that Iraq has recently witnessed.
Abd Rabbo explained in an interview with “Baghdad Today” that the current stage requires speeding up the completion of the private banks reform project, as it is the cornerstone for achieving permanent stability in the dollar exchange rate within the local market, noting that the continued existence of some banks under sanctions contributes to creating bottlenecks in the supply of foreign currency and negatively affects the level of confidence in the banking sector.
Supporting Restructuring
He added that it is necessary to intensify efforts to support the work of Oliver Wyman, which is concerned with the restructuring of banks, in order to complete the banking compliance requirements within clear and announced timetables, which will contribute to removing a number of banks from the circle of restrictions and returning them to normal activity in accordance with transparent standards and strict supervision.
Reducing The Gap Between The Two Prices
Abdel Rabbo pointed out that achieving tangible progress in this direction will not only reduce the gap between the official and parallel dollar exchange rates, but will also send a genuine message of reassurance to the markets that the path of financial reforms is proceeding steadily, and that monetary stability is no longer a temporary measure, but a long-term strategic option to enhance confidence in the Iraqi financial market.
Over the past two years, Iraq has witnessed fluctuations in the dollar exchange rate as a result of tightening foreign transfer procedures and international compliance requirements, which prompted the Central Bank of Iraq to adopt stricter regulatory and supervisory mechanisms to control the currency sale window and enhance transparency.
Some private banks were also subjected to restrictive measures and sanctions, which affected the supply of foreign currency in the local market and widened the gap between the official and parallel exchange rates.
In this context, the restructuring of the banking sector has emerged as one of the most important paths of financial reform to ensure sustainable monetary stability and enhance confidence in the banking system. https://baghdadtoday.news/293908-.html
Al-Mada Newspaper: An Anticipated Shift Within The Coordination Framework May Remove Maliki And Enhance Sudani's Chances Of Securing A Second Term.
Baghdad – One News Al-Mada newspaper reported that political data indicates the possibility of a shift within the forces of the Coordination Framework that may lead to the removal of the leader of the State of Law Coalition, Nouri al-Maliki, from the race for the premiership, with the current Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, having increased chances of assuming the position again.
The newspaper explained that the tour of Tom Barrack, the envoy of US President Donald Trump, in Baghdad was interpreted by political circles as an American green light to grant Al-Sudani a second term, in light of Washington’s search for a partner capable of maintaining stability and preventing escalation.
She added that the Sudanese is seen by some circles as a suitable guarantee for Washington to curb the movement of the factions, especially in the event that the United States carries out a new military strike against Tehran, which gives him an advantage in international calculations.
https://1news-iq.net/جريدة-المدى-تحوّل-مرتقب-داخل-الإطار-ال/
Iraq Exports 107M+ Oil Barrels In January
2026-02-25 Shafaq News- Baghdad Iraq exported more than 107,616,220 barrels of crude oil in January, generating $6,485,294,000 billion in revenue, according to data released on Wednesday by the State Organization for Marketing of Oil (SOMO).
Crude shipments from fields in central and southern Iraq accounted for 101,160,349 barrels, while exports from the Kurdistan Region via Turkiye’s Ceyhan port totaled 6,445 barrels.
No crude was exported to Jordan or from the Qayyarah field during the month.
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-exports-107M-oil-barrels-in-January
Dollar Steadies In Baghdad, Slips In Erbil On Closure
2026-02-25 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil The US dollar closed Wednesday’s trading flat in Baghdad, hovering near 154,000 dinars per 100 dollars, while edging lower by about 150 dinars in Erbil.
According to a Shafaq News market survey, the dollar traded in Baghdad's Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya exchanges at 153,750 dinars per 100 dollars, unchanged from the morning session.
In Baghdad, exchange shops sold the dollar at 154,250 dinars and bought it at 153,250 dinars, while in Erbil, selling prices stood at 153,300 dinars and buying prices at 153,200 dinars.
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-steadies-in-Baghdad-slips-in-Erbil
Iraqi Resistance Coordination blasts “US interference” in Iraqi affairs
2026-02-25 Shafaq News- Baghdad The Iraqi Resistance Coordination Committee on Wednesday condemned what it described as US interference in Iraq’s political affairs, accusing Washington of “determining which political figures are allowed to assume government positions and which are excluded.”
In a statement, the committee, an umbrella group that includes armed factions allied with Iran, said relations between Iraq and the United States are not based on equality between sovereign states. It added that “the occupation continues to violate Iraqi airspace, whether through drones or warplanes,” calling this a serious security threat that undermines the country’s stability and territorial integrity and constitutes “a blatant violation of sovereignty and national dignity.”
The group also accused the United States of failing to fulfill its commitments. “We have not seen any real steps to implement the remainder of the agreement concluded with the Iraqi government, which stipulates the withdrawal of all foreign forces from Iraqi territory and airspace.”
It warned that what it called continued evasion and delay “leaves us with no choice but to assume our legal and moral responsibilities in taking positions befitting the dignity of our people and their legitimate right to end the occupation, if US forces insist on maintaining their presence and imposing their will on the country.”
A senior White House official reiterated the US administration’s opposition to the nomination of Nouri Al-Maliki for the post of prime minister, according to remarks reported on Wednesday by Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper. The official was quoted as saying that “a government controlled by Iran cannot put Iraq’s interests first, keep Iraq out of regional conflicts, or strengthen a mutually beneficial partnership between the United States and Iraq.”
Speaking to Shafaq News, a senior source within Iraq’s Coordination Framework (CF) said the US extended a deadline for the CF until February 27 to withdraw Al-Maliki’s nomination. He noted that the deadline was discussed during a meeting held on Monday, where Al-Maliki made clear he would not step aside, adding that any reversal would have to come from the bloc that nominated him.
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Iraqi-Resistance-Coordination-blasts-US-interference-in-Iraqi-affairs
Trump's Pressure Goes Public... Maliki's Fate To Be Decided Friday Night
2026-02-24 Shafaq News – Baghdad On Tuesday, an official source within the Coordination Framework revealed details of the meeting of the Coordination Framework leaders, which was held last night at the home of the head of the Supreme Islamic Council, Humam Hamoudi, explaining that it witnessed the absence of both the leader of the Wisdom Movement, Ammar al-Hakim, and the Secretary-General of Asaib Ahl al-Haq, Qais al-Khazali.
The source told Shafaq News Agency that "the framework obtained a new extension of the American deadline for withdrawing al-Maliki's nomination, and the deadline will end next Friday. This was discussed during the meeting, and al-Maliki informed them that he does not intend to withdraw his nomination at all. He told them that the two-thirds who nominated al-Maliki should withdraw his nomination, and he does not object to that. This is the closest thing to the scene in the next few days."
He added that "the Sunni objection is no longer just from Halbousi, but there is now a Sunni political consensus from all blocs, parties and frameworks. This was officially communicated and discussed during a meeting last night."
According to the responsible source within the coordination framework, before Friday, that is, before the end of the new and final American deadline, there will be an important and decisive meeting of the coordination framework.
The source concluded by noting that the US Special Envoy to Iraq and Syria, Tom Barrack, clearly conveyed during his meetings in both Baghdad and Erbil the firm and clear US position of rejecting al-Maliki’s nomination for Prime Minister, and outlined what decisions Washington could make if the framework insisted on proceeding with al-Maliki’s nomination.
The issue of deciding on the presidency and the Iranian-American escalation topped the agenda of the coordination framework talks on Monday evening, where the need to finalize the formation of the new government was emphasized, without mentioning the candidate for its leadership, the leader of the State of Law Coalition, Nouri al-Maliki.
https://www.shafaq.com/ar/سیاسة/ضغوط-ترمب-تنتقل-للعلن-مصير-المالكي-يحسم-ليلة-الجمعة