Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Wednesday Morning 4-29-26
Oil Dips On UAE OPEC Exit, Hormuz Blockade Props Prices
2026-04-29 Shafaq News Oil prices eased on Wednesday from a multi-day rally as investors digested the ramifications of the United Arab Emirates' surprise decision to quit OPEC, though supply disruptions from the stalemated Iran war support the market.
Brent crude futures for June dipped 1 cent to $111.25 a barrel by 0413 GMT, having climbed for the previous seven sessions. The June contract expires on Thursday and the more active July contract down 28 cents at $104.12.
Oil Dips On UAE OPEC Exit, Hormuz Blockade Props Prices
2026-04-29 Shafaq News Oil prices eased on Wednesday from a multi-day rally as investors digested the ramifications of the United Arab Emirates' surprise decision to quit OPEC, though supply disruptions from the stalemated Iran war support the market.
Brent crude futures for June dipped 1 cent to $111.25 a barrel by 0413 GMT, having climbed for the previous seven sessions. The June contract expires on Thursday and the more active July contract down 28 cents at $104.12.
Wednesday's slight decrease could be partly linked to the UAE's surprising decision to leave producer cartel OPEC, said LSEG senior analyst Anh Pham, as it points to a stronger supply outlook when the country is free of the group’s output quotas.
"However, this effect is not immediate, as the incremental barrels may not be deliverable in the near term due to the ongoing Hormuz blockade," he added.
"So while prices are down slightly, this appears to be more of a correction from earlier gains, with Brent still holding at elevated levels around $110 per barrel."
U.S. President Donald Trump has told aides to prepare for an extended blockade of Iran, the Wall Street Journal said on Tuesday, citing U.S. officials.
Trump is opting to keep squeezing Iran's economy and oil exports by blocking shipping traffic with its ports, it added.
Despite a ceasefire in the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, the conflict is deadlocked as both sides seek a formal end to the fighting.
Iran has shut the Strait of Hormuz, a conduit for about 20% of global oil and LNG supplies, and the United States blockaded Iranian ports.
"The recent rise in oil prices has been driven by the Strait blockade," said Yang An, an analyst at Haitong Futures. "If Trump is prepared to extend the blockade, supply disruptions would worsen further and continue to push oil prices higher."
The U.S. is pressing Iran to end what it says is a nuclear weapons programme, while Iran wants some form of reparations for the latest round of fighting, an easing of economic sanctions and some form of control over the Strait of Hormuz.
The Hormuz shutdown is prompting pulls from global inventories, with market sources saying late on Tuesday the American Petroleum Institute reported U.S. crude oil inventories fell for a second week.
Crude stocks fell by 1.79 million barrels in the week ended April 24, the sources said. Gasoline inventories fell by 8.47 million barrels, while distillate inventories fell by 2.60 million barrels. (Reuters)
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-dips-on-UAE-OPEC-exit-Hormuz-blockade-props-prices
Basrah Crudes Outpace Regional Benchmarks Despite Decline
2026-04-29 Shafaq News- Basrah Iraq’s Basrah crude prices edged lower by 0.12% on Wednesday, outperforming several regional benchmarks. Basrah Heavy crude fell by 15 cents to $120.93 per barrel, while Basrah Medium crude declined by the same margin to $123.30.
In contrast, Saudi Light stood at $120.30 per barrel, Kuwait crude at $103.79, the UAE’s Murban at $106.70, and Qatar’s Al-Shaheen at $107.
Globally, Brent crude rose $3.08, or 2.8%, to $114.34 per barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) gained $2.75, or 2.8%, to $102.68.
Iraq prices its crude based on export destinations, with shipments to Asia linked to the Dubai and Oman benchmarks, exports to Europe tied to Brent with premiums or discounts, and cargoes to the United States priced against WTI in line with market conditions. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Basrah-crudes-outpace-regional-benchmarks-despite-decline
Iran’s Khuzestan Exports $61M To Iraq In One Month
2026-04-29 Shafaq News- Tehran/ Baghdad Iran’s Khuzestan province exported 221,000 tons of goods to Iraq worth $60.8 million in the first month of the current Iranian year, Iranian media reported on Wednesday.
According to Iranian outlets, local official Behrouz Qarabiji said imports during the same period totaled 874,000 tons valued at $360 million, while customs revenue rose 409% year-on-year to around $51 million. Customs and transit activity also increased, with 30 clearance declarations covering 2,438 tons and 279 transit filings totaling 36,200 tons.
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iran-s-Khuzestan-exports-61M-to-Iraq-in-one-month
UAE Exit From OPEC And OPEC+ Sparks Mixed Outlook For Oil Markets
2026-04-29 Shafaq News- Baghdad The United Arab Emirates’ decision to withdraw from OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance has drawn mixed reactions among specialists, amid close monitoring of global markets for producer compliance with output policies and the impact of geopolitical developments on supply and demand.
Oil expert Dirgham Mohammed Ali told Shafaq News that the UAE’s exit could lead to increased production outside the quota system, raising the risk of a significant supply surplus.
He warned that any unregulated rise in output would put strong downward pressure on prices, potentially leading to sharp declines or even a market collapse, particularly if other OPEC+ members show weak adherence to agreed production limits.
Ali explained that the oil market relies on a balance between supply and demand, noting that any disruption by a major producer such as the UAE would have immediate effects. “Iraq could be among the most affected countries, as more than 90% of its budget depends on oil revenues,” the expert noted.
Economic expert Mohammed Al-Hassani downplayed the potential impact, suggesting that the UAE’s withdrawal would not necessarily trigger a sharp price drop.
In remarks to Shafaq News, he said the market is influenced by multiple factors, including global demand, geopolitical tensions, and the ability of major producers, particularly Saudi Arabia, to stabilize supply through production adjustments.
“The UAE may continue informal coordination with other producers, which could limit market disruptions,” he explained, clarifying, “While any price decline would affect Iraq, it is unlikely to result in a severe collapse.”
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/UAE-exit-from-OPEC-and-OPEC-sparks-mixed-outlook-for-oil-markets
MilitiaMan & CREW IRAQ DINAR UPDATE-Reforms Moving Forward Despite Political Noise-Monetary Strength
MilitiaMan & CREW IRAQ DINAR UPDATE-Reforms Moving Forward Despite Political Noise-Monetary Strength
4-28-2026
The Crew: Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man
No drama. No intrigue. No songs and dances. Just straight, factual news that I read and interpret to the best of my ability after being an avid Dinar investor and insanely obsessed Dinarian for over 15 years.
Follow MM on X == https://x.com/Slashn
MilitiaMan & CREW IRAQ DINAR UPDATE-Reforms Moving Forward Despite Political Noise-Monetary Strength
4-28-2026
The Crew: Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man
No drama. No intrigue. No songs and dances. Just straight, factual news that I read and interpret to the best of my ability after being an avid Dinar investor and insanely obsessed Dinarian for over 15 years.
Follow MM on X == https://x.com/Slashn
Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..
FRANK26….4-28-26….TRUMP STYLE
KTFA
Tuesday Night Video
FRANK26….4-28-26….TRUMP STYLE
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
Tuesday Night Video
FRANK26….4-28-26….TRUMP STYLE
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#
What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE… ORANGE=IMPLEMENTATION
Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Afternoon 4-28-26
Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps
Energy Shock Wave: Surging Oil and Debt Risks Signal Global Financial Strain
Rising energy prices, inflation pressure, and mounting debt concerns are converging into a potential systemic turning point
Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps
Energy Shock Wave: Surging Oil and Debt Risks Signal Global Financial Strain
Rising energy prices, inflation pressure, and mounting debt concerns are converging into a potential systemic turning point
OVERVIEW (KEY POINTS)
Global markets are entering a period of heightened stress as energy prices surge sharply due to ongoing Middle East conflict, triggering ripple effects across inflation, debt markets, and economic growth.
This is happening now because disruptions in key supply routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, are constraining global oil flows while geopolitical tensions remain unresolved.
Key players include central banks, major economies, and global financial institutions now facing a difficult environment of rising costs, slowing growth, and elevated debt levels.
The broader implication is clear: multiple systemic pressures are converging at once, increasing the probability of structural financial adjustments.
KEY DEVELOPMENTS
1. Energy Prices Surge on Supply Disruptions
Oil markets are tightening rapidly.
Energy prices projected to rise up to 24% in 2026
Oil trading near $110 per barrel with upside risk
2. Inflation Pressures Reignite Globally
Energy costs are feeding into broader price levels.
Inflation forecasts rising across major economies
Developing nations expected to face 5%+ inflation levels
3. Central Banks Enter Policy Dilemma
Monetary policy is becoming more complex.
Institutions holding rates steady despite rising inflation
Balancing growth slowdown vs. inflation control
4. Debt Risks Escalate Across Markets
Financial system vulnerabilities are increasing.
Warnings of potential global bond market stress
Rising borrowing costs threaten government and corporate balance sheets
5. Corporate and Consumer Strain Expands
Real economy impacts are becoming visible.
Companies facing higher input and logistics costs
Increased risk of price hikes and reduced demand
WHY IT MATTERS
This development highlights a critical convergence: energy shocks, inflation, and debt pressures are reinforcing each other, amplifying systemic risk.
Markets are becoming increasingly sensitive to geopolitical events, with volatility spreading across commodities, bonds, and currencies.
For policymakers, the challenge is acute. Traditional tools are less effective when inflation is driven by supply-side shocks rather than demand.
At the system level, this reflects a transition phase where multiple stress points are testing the resilience of the global financial framework.
WHY IT MATTERS TO FOREIGN CURRENCY HOLDERS
Energy-importing currencies face downward pressure
Purchasing power declines as inflation rises
Safe-haven currencies may strengthen during instability
Exchange rate volatility increases across regions
IMPLICATIONS FOR THE GLOBAL RESET
Pillar 1: Energy-Driven Financial Realignment
Sustained energy shocks are forcing economies to rethink supply chains, pricing, and trade dependencies, reshaping global economic relationships.
Pillar 2: Debt and Liquidity Stress نقطة
Rising debt burdens combined with higher rates increase the likelihood of financial restructuring or market corrections, impacting the broader system.
CONCLUSION
The current environment represents more than isolated disruptions. It is a convergence of energy, inflation, and debt pressures that is testing the global financial system.
As these forces build simultaneously, the margin for policy error narrows, increasing the risk of instability.
This is not just a cyclical challenge—it reflects deeper structural strain.
When energy shocks collide with debt and inflation, the foundation of the global financial system begins to shift.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive
Sources
Reuters — "World Bank forecasts 24% surge in energy prices due to war"
Reuters — "Global inflation worries rise as energy prices surge"
~~~~~~~~~~
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Thank you Dinar Recaps
Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Tuesday Evening 4-28-26
Iraq’s CF Grants PM-Designate Full Authority To Form Cabinet
2026-04-28 Shafaq News- Baghdad The Coordination Framework (CF) agreed Tuesday to give Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi full authority to form his cabinet, following a meeting attended by caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. According to a statement, participants discussed cabinet formation and mechanisms for resolving political entitlements, emphasizing adherence to constitutional timelines.
Iraq’s CF Grants PM-Designate Full Authority To Form Cabinet
2026-04-28 Shafaq News- Baghdad The Coordination Framework (CF) agreed Tuesday to give Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi full authority to form his cabinet, following a meeting attended by caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. According to a statement, participants discussed cabinet formation and mechanisms for resolving political entitlements, emphasizing adherence to constitutional timelines.
Leaders called for appointments based on integrity, competence, and national responsibility, and stressed the need for cohesion within the incoming government. The bloc had nominated al-Zaidi yesterday after al-Sudani and former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki withdrew from the race.
Read more: Ali al-Zaidi named Iraq's prime minister: Easy nomination, harder road ahead
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Iraq-s-CF-grants-PM-designate-full-authority-to-form-cabinet
The Coordination Framework Is Discussing The Formation Of The Government And Affirms Its Support For The Powers Of The Prime Minister-Designate, Ali Al-Zidi
Baghdad – One News 4/28/2026 The Coordination Framework held a meeting to discuss the formation of the new government, where mechanisms for resolving political entitlements and forming the cabinet were discussed in a way that contributes to building a strong government capable of facing challenges.
The participants stressed the need to grant Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zidi full authority to choose members of the ministerial team, in order to ensure harmony within the government and enhance its effectiveness in implementing its program.
The coordination framework stressed the importance of adopting standards of integrity, competence and national responsibility in selecting ministers, in addition to prioritizing the public interest and strengthening the principle of political partnership between different forces.
He also pointed out that the harmony of the next government team is a crucial factor in overcoming crises and achieving the aspirations of the Iraqi people at various levels. https://1news-iq.net/الإطار-التنسيقي-يبحث-تشكيل-الحكومة-وي/
Al-Hurra Website Quotes A Leader In The Coordination Committee: The Selection Of Ali Al-Zidi Surprised The Committee's Representatives, And There Is No American Objection To His Appointment
Baghdad – One News 4/28/2026 Al-Hurra website quoted a member of the coordinating framework as saying that the selection of Ali al-Zidi to form the government came as a surprise to most of the coalition’s deputies, as his name had not been clearly put forward during previous meetings.
He pointed out that the messages that reached the leaders of the framework indicate that Washington does not object to assigning al-Zaidi, in an indication of international acceptance of his personality compared to other options.
He added that if he succeeds in forming a government within the constitutional deadline of 30 days, he will become the youngest prime minister in the history of Iraq.https://1news-iq.net/موقع-الحرة-عن-قيادي-بالتنسيقي-اختيار-ع/
Monte Carlo: Ali Al-Zaidi, Tasked With Forming The New Iraqi Government, Received A Green Light From Both Iran And The United States
Baghdad – One News 4/28/2026 Monte Carlo International Radio reported that the announcement by the Coordination Framework nominating Ali al-Zaidi for the presidency of the new Iraqi government came after a series of intensive consultations between prominent leaders within the coalition.
The radio station explained that the head of the Popular Mobilization Forces, Faleh al-Fayyad, held two separate meetings with both the leader of the State of Law Coalition, Nouri al-Maliki, and the outgoing Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, as part of efforts to resolve the issue of the premiership.
She added that assessments within some parties within the framework indicate that al-Zaydi received a “green light” from both Iran and the United States, which helped facilitate agreement on his nomination after a period of disagreements within the coalition. https://1news-iq.net/مونت-كارلو-المكلف-بتشكيل-الحكومة-العر/
A leader in the Sudanese coalition: Ali al-Zaidi's appointment depends on overcoming the American veto.
2026-04-28 Shafaq News – Baghdad A leader in the “Reconstruction and Development” coalition, headed by outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, said on Tuesday that assigning Ali al-Zidi to form the new government could represent a “rising political phenomenon” or a “major setback,” considering that the matter depends on his ability to overcome the American “veto” peacefully.
Qusay Mahbouba said in a statement regarding Al-Zidi's assignment to form the new government by the Coordination Framework, "Ali Al-Zidi will either be a bridge for others, or they will become a bridge for him."
He added that al-Zaidi "could be a rising political phenomenon, or he could be a major setback," noting that his success depends on his ability to safely cross the American veto.
He continued: "We don't know the man yet, neither his ideas nor his capabilities nor the features of his political personality," indicating that the question is whether he will be a bridge to a larger project, or will turn everyone into a bridge to his project "if he has a project at all."
Mahbouba considered that the Shiite coordination framework “has exhausted its political and moral presence in the Iraqi arena,” and is no longer able to shape the future of Iraq or monopolize Shiite decision-making, adding that the framework “has practically ended politically and morally.”
He pointed out that this "could be a good thing," because the end of the political monopoly opens the door to the birth of new equations, and perhaps to a different Iraqi opportunity.
The ruling Shiite coalition forces in Iraq announced on Monday evening the nomination of al-Zaidi for the premiership, following the withdrawal of outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, leader of the State of Law Coalition, from the race for the position.
Iraq’s Dominant Bloc Taps Newcomer Ali Al-Zaidi For Prime Minister After Weeks Of Wrangling
By QASSIM ABDUL-ZAHRA Updated 10:30 PM CEST, April 27, 2026 BAGHDAD (AP) — Iraq’s dominant parliamentary bloc on Monday nominated Ali al-Zaidi, a businessman and political newcomer, to be the country’s prime minister.
The announcement by the Coordination Framework, a coalition of Shiite parties allied with Iran, followed a meeting at the government palace. It came after weeks of internal debate among its member parties aimed at selecting a compromise candidate to lead the next government.
President Nizar Amidi then tasked al-Zaidi with forming a government. Even with the backing of the dominant bloc, the new government is not assured of receiving the required number of votes.
The coalition had previously said it would back former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, who the U.S. administration views as too close to Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump publicly announced his opposition to al-Maliki and threatened to cut off aid to Iraq if he was appointed.
While al-Maliki remained defiant after Trump’s intervention, the bloc decided to shift to a compromise candidate.
In a statement announcing al-Zaidi’s nomination, the Coordination Framework thanked al-Maliki and incumbent Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani for their “historic and responsible positions” in withdrawing their candidacies to help overcome the political deadlock. Al-Sudani issued a statement congratulating al-Zaidi.
Al-Zaidi, who is chairman of Al-Janoob Islamic Bank, emerged in the final stages of discussions as one of the leading candidates, bolstered by his economic background and business and investment connections. He has not previously held political office.
Following his nomination, al-Zaidi promised to focus on making Iraq “a balanced country, regionally and internationally.”
“This appointment comes at a sensitive time that requires concerted efforts from all political and social forces,” he said.
Under the constitution, the designated prime minister has 30 days to present a Cabinet lineup to the parliament, which requires 167 votes to secure a vote of confidence.
The next government will have to deal with the political and economic fallout of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, which spilled over into Iraq while the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted the oil exports on which Iraq’s economy depends.
The new government will also face challenges in dealing with the issues of corruption, uncontrolled weapons outside state authority, and the future of the Popular Mobilization Forces, a coalition of Shiite militias that are nominally under the Iraqi military but in practice largely outside of its control.
https://apnews.com/article/iraq-prime-minister-parliament-alzaidi-bb629c0f14c6710cbb66500fe376218e
15 Things To Do If You Get Rich All Of A Sudden
From Dinar Recaps Archives
15 Things To Do If You Get Rich All Of A Sudden
So you won the lottery. ( Or Inheritance, or RV)Now what?
00:00 - Intro
00:56 - Do not let anyone know
01:25 - Pay all of your debt.
01:58 - Do not quit your job yet.
02:42 - Secure the money and let it sit for a while.
03:31 - Make investment in yourself a priority.
05:45 - Do not switch financial advisors.
06:27 - Get comfortable, but not rich-comfortable.
07:09 - Do not invest in your friend's business or lend them money.
08:06 - Do not start a business immediately.
08:46 - Prepare for change.
09:16 - Focus on getting healthier.
09:51 - the 5% rule.
10:32 - Protect your kids from the money.
10:58 - Do not cheat on your partner.
11:37 - Play it safe.
The US Treasury is Going to Crash the Dollar
The US Treasury is Going to Crash the Dollar
Steven Van Metre: 4-28-2026
The world of finance is a complex, ever-shifting landscape, and understanding the underlying currents is crucial for any observer of the global economy. Steven Van Metre recently offered a fascinating look into some pivotal strategies and market dynamics that are poised to shape our financial future, touching on everything from central bank maneuvers to equity market paradoxes. Let’s delve into some of the compelling points raised in his insightful discussion.
At the heart of Van Metre’s discussion is a bold strategic move unfolding on the global stage: the potential weakening of the U.S. dollar, spearheaded by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
The US Treasury is Going to Crash the Dollar
Steven Van Metre: 4-28-2026
The world of finance is a complex, ever-shifting landscape, and understanding the underlying currents is crucial for any observer of the global economy. Steven Van Metre recently offered a fascinating look into some pivotal strategies and market dynamics that are poised to shape our financial future, touching on everything from central bank maneuvers to equity market paradoxes. Let’s delve into some of the compelling points raised in his insightful discussion.
At the heart of Van Metre’s discussion is a bold strategic move unfolding on the global stage: the potential weakening of the U.S. dollar, spearheaded by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
The core mechanism? Expanding dollar swap lines with key international allies, particularly in the Gulf and Asia. These swap lines are essentially agreements where the U.S. Federal Reserve provides dollars to foreign central banks in exchange for their local currency, with an agreement to swap back later.
The rationale behind this initiative is multifaceted. Amidst a slowing global economy, there’s a growing risk of “dollar tightness”—a scarcity of dollars in international markets. This scarcity can lead to disorderly asset sales by foreign entities struggling to obtain dollars, which, in turn, could spike U.S. interest rates and potentially trigger a recession.
By proactively flooding the global economy with dollars through these expanded swap lines, the Treasury aims to maintain crucial liquidity, stabilize international markets, and prevent such disruptive scenarios. It’s a strategic maneuver designed to provide a smoother ride for the global economy, even if it means a deliberate weakening of the dollar’s relative strength.
Crucially, the effectiveness and scope of this dollar strategy are deeply intertwined with the actions and independence of the Federal Reserve. Van Metre’s video highlights significant developments here, including recent movements around the nomination of a new Fed Chair and the dropping of a Justice Department probe that had previously raised concerns about the institution’s independence. These events suggest a growing political alignment that could pave the way for more extensive, and perhaps even permanent, dollar swap lines.
This alignment is a game-changer. A Fed that is more closely aligned with government economic policy can more readily implement and sustain the kind of expansive liquidity provisions discussed. This institutional backing provides a strong foundation for the planned weakening of the dollar, solidifying the outlook for a potentially less dominant greenback on the international stage.
Shifting gears to the equity markets, Van Metre uncovers some intriguing contradictions. Despite general expectations that hedge funds might be aggressively buying into the market, data presented suggests quite the opposite: hedge funds have been offloading tech stocks at their fastest pace in two years, while simultaneously maintaining significant short positions. This “paradoxical behavior” sets up an interesting dynamic.
However, against this backdrop, other forces are at play. Ongoing pension fund rebalancing—where large institutional investors adjust their portfolios—and record corporate buybacks are injecting substantial capital back into the market. These powerful financial flows, combined with the potential for a weaker dollar and declining market volatility (as indicated by the VIX), create a fertile ground for a potentially significant rally in stock prices. While the video acknowledges the market’s narrow breadth, with fewer stocks driving overall gains, it also frames this as a characteristic of modern indexing dynamics rather than an insurmountable barrier to upward movement.
Amidst these macroeconomic and equity discussions, the video also shines a spotlight on specific investment opportunities. Steven Van Metre gives attention to Nevada King Gold Corp., highlighting its expanding high-grade gold resource in Nevada. With strong growth potential and favorable market positioning, it’s presented as an entity to watch for those interested in the precious metals sector.
Iraq Economic News And Points To Ponder Tuesday Afternoon 4-28-26
UAE Withdraws From OPEC And OPEC+, Effective May 1
2026-04-28 Shafaq News- Abu Dhabi The United Arab Emirates announced Tuesday its decision to withdraw from OPEC and the OPEC+ effective May 1, citing the country's evolving energy profile and long-term economic strategy.
According to a statement issued by UAE authorities, the decision follows a comprehensive review of the country's production policy, current output capacity, and projected future capacity.
UAE Withdraws From OPEC And OPEC+, Effective May 1
2026-04-28 Shafaq News- Abu Dhabi The United Arab Emirates announced Tuesday its decision to withdraw from OPEC and the OPEC+ effective May 1, citing the country's evolving energy profile and long-term economic strategy.
According to a statement issued by UAE authorities, the decision follows a comprehensive review of the country's production policy, current output capacity, and projected future capacity.
The UAE said the move is grounded in national interest and in the country's commitment to meeting what it called the market's pressing needs. Under the OPEC+ framework, members have coordinated production cuts since 2016 to stabilize global oil prices, an arrangement the UAE will no longer be bound by as of next week.
The UAE joined OPEC in 1967 through the Emirate of Abu Dhabi —before the federation's formal establishment in 197 — and has since been one of the group's most consequential members, producing approximately 3.2 to 3.5 million barrels of crude oil per day.
The Emirati authorities said the country would continue bringing additional production to market "in a gradual and measured manner," guided by demand and market conditions, and reaffirmed that its exit does not alter its commitment to global market stability. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/UAE-withdraws-from-OPEC-and-OPEC-effective-May-1
Iraq’s January 2026 Revenues Exceed $6.1B
2026-04-27 Shafaq News- Baghdad The Iraqi federal budget revenues for January 2026 exceeded 8 trillion Iraqi dinars (over $6.1 billion), the Ministry of Finance reported on Monday.
According to the official data, total revenues reached 8.537 trillion dinars ($6.5 billion), marking a 6% increase compared to 8.040 trillion dinars ($6.1 billion) recorded in January 2025.
Oil revenues amounted to 7.075 trillion dinars ($5.4 billion), accounting for 83% of total public income, while non-oil revenues totaled 1.462 trillion dinars ($1.1 billion).
The data also indicated that non-oil revenues transferred from the Kurdistan Region to the federal treasury stood at 120 billion dinars ($92 million).
On the expenditure side, total current spending reached 8.345 trillion dinars ($6.4 billion). Public sector salaries accounted for 5.087 trillion dinars ($3.9 billion), while pensions totaled 1.598 trillion dinars ($1.2 billion). Social welfare payments amounted to 458 billion dinars ($350 million). https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-s-January-2026-revenues-exceed-6-1B
Oil Prices Climb On Continued US-Iran War Deadlock
2026-04-28 Shafaq News Oil prices rose 1% on Tuesday, extending gains from the previous session, as efforts to end the U.S.-Iran war appear stalled, with the crucial Strait of Hormuz waterway still mainly shut, keeping energy supplies from the key Middle East producing region out of the reach of global buyers.
U.S. President Donald Trump is unhappy with the latest Iranian proposal aimed at ending the war, a U.S. official said on Monday. Iranian sources disclosed on Monday that Tehran's proposal avoided addressing its nuclear program until hostilities cease and Gulf shipping disputes are resolved.
Trump's displeasure with the Iranian offer leaves the conflict deadlocked, with Iran shutting shipping flows through the Strait of Hormuz, which typically carries supply equal to about 20% of global oil and gas consumption, and the U.S. keeping in place its blockade of Iranian ports.
Brent crude futures for June climbed $1.41, or 1.3%, to $109.64 a barrel as of 0400 GMT, after gaining 2.8% in the previous session to its highest close since April 7. The contract is up for a seventh day.
U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for June rose $1.27, or 1.3%, to $97.64 a barrel, after gaining 2.1% in the previous session.
An earlier round of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran collapsed last week following failed face-to-face talks.
"Talks around ‘peace’ still look largely superficial and lack concrete evidence of de-escalation. Despite the rhetoric, vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz remains curtailed, and that prolonged disruption is what's keeping oil risk premiums elevated," said Phillip Nova's senior market analyst Priyanka Sachdeva.
"In the near term, oil markets are less about macro demand and more about diplomatic gridlock. Until diplomacy translates into actual barrel flows, not just statements, oil markets will remain volatile with an upward bias through May," she added.
Ship-tracking data revealed significant disruptions in the region, with six Iranian oil tankers forced to turn back due to the U.S. blockade.
However, a liquefied natural gas tanker managed by the United Arab Emirates' Abu Dhabi National Oil Co did cross the Strait of Hormuz and appears to be near India, ship-tracking data showed on Monday.
Prior to the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, which began on February 28, between 125 and 140 vessels transited the strait daily.
The market is also looking ahead to private and government U.S. inventory data for later this week.
Analysts polled by Reuters are expecting U.S. crude inventories to have risen by 300,000 barrels in the last week, with official data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration set for release on Wednesday. (Reuters)
https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Oil-prices-climb-on-continued-US-Iran-war-deadlock
Basrah Crudes Lead Regional Oil Benchmarks
2026-04-28 Shafaq News- Basrah Basrah crude prices recorded gains of around 0.59% on Tuesday, while global oil markets held firm.
Basrah Heavy crude rose by 71 cents, to $121.08 per barrel. Basrah Medium crude increased by 71 cents, to settle at $123.18 per barrel.
In contrast, several regional grades declined, with Saudi Light at $119.48 per barrel, Kuwait crude at $107.37, and UAE’s Murban at $103.57.
Globally, Brent crude futures rose $1.41, or 1.3%, to $109.64 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude were also up $1.27, or 1.3%, at $97.64.
Iraq prices its crude based on export destinations, with shipments to Asia linked to the Dubai and Oman benchmarks, exports to Europe tied to Brent with premiums or discounts, and cargoes to the United States priced against WTI in line with market conditions. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Basrah-crudes-lead-regional-oil-benchmarks-2
Gold Prices Drop In Baghdad And Erbil Markets
2026-04-28 Shafaq News- Baghdad/ Erbil On Tuesday, gold prices hovered around 1 million IQD per mithqal in Baghdad and Erbil markets, according to a Shafaq News market survey.
Gold prices on Baghdad's Al-Nahr Street recorded a selling price of 1,005,000 IQD per mithqal (equivalent to five grams) for 21-carat gold, including Gulf, Turkish, and European varieties, with a buying price of 1,001,000 IQD. The same gold had sold for 1,025,000 IQD on Monday.
The selling price for 21-carat Iraqi gold stood at 975,000 IQD, with a buying price of 971,000 IQD.
In jewelry stores, the selling price per mithqal of 21-carat Gulf gold ranged between 1,005,000 and 1,015,000 IQD, while Iraqi gold sold for between 975,000 and 985,000 IQD.
In Erbil, 22-carat gold was sold at 1,050,000 IQD per mithqal, 21-carat gold at 1,002,000 IQD, and 18-carat gold at 859,000 IQD. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Gold-prices-drop-in-Baghdad-and-Erbil-markets-8
Iraq’s Basra Wheat Intake Set To Exceed 24K Tons
2026-04-28 Shafaq News- Basra Wheat intake in southern Iraq’s Basra province is projected to exceed 24,000 tons this agricultural season, a local official told Shafaq News on Tuesday, with marketing operations now underway.
Receiving centers are fully prepared, offering sufficient silo capacity and a regulated system to manage truck entry and unloading, according to Hadi Hussein, head of the Basra Agriculture Directorate. Peak deliveries, he noted, are anticipated in May and will continue through June, while urging farmers to adhere to schedules to ensure smooth processing.
Harvesting began last week in Basra with average yields of about 750 kg per dunam (0.25 hectares), covering 3,937 dunams under the government plan and 7,500 dunams outside it.
In Kirkuk, production is projected at around 600,000 tons this season, reinforcing its role as a key grain-producing province. Zuhair Ali Hussein, head of the Kirkuk Agriculture Directorate, said average yields are estimated at about 1,250 kilograms per dunam, supported by improved farming methods, technical assistance, and favorable weather. Iraq’s 2026 wheat production is forecast at 5 million tons, down from 6.3 million in 2025, while imports are expected to rise to 2.1 million tons. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Iraq-s-Basra-wheat-intake-set-to-exceed-24K-tons
The ‘Expert’ Who Said ‘Globalization Would End War’ — 5 Years Before WWI
The ‘Expert’ Who Said ‘Globalization Would End War’ — 5 Years Before WWI
Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black / Sovereign Man) April 28, 2026
In 1909, a British journalist named Norman Angell published The Great Illusion, claiming that war between major global powers had become obsolete. Nations were too interlinked, he argued. Capital was too entangled. Trade was too valuable. And no nation would put that prosperity at risk. War and conquest were things of the past.
But think about the world back then: Europe was in the middle of la Belle Époque, a stretch of unprecedented peace and prosperity. It had been nearly 40 years since the last major war (Franco-Prussian War) in 1871.
The ‘Expert’ Who Said ‘Globalization Would End War’ — 5 Years Before WWI
Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black / Sovereign Man) April 28, 2026
In 1909, a British journalist named Norman Angell published The Great Illusion, claiming that war between major global powers had become obsolete. Nations were too interlinked, he argued. Capital was too entangled. Trade was too valuable. And no nation would put that prosperity at risk. War and conquest were things of the past.
But think about the world back then: Europe was in the middle of la Belle Époque, a stretch of unprecedented peace and prosperity. It had been nearly 40 years since the last major war (Franco-Prussian War) in 1871.
Gold-standard money moved across borders without friction. British capital financed German factories, German banks lent to Russian railways. And one of the largest trading relationships in the world was between supposed rivals Britain and Germany.
Mr. Angell's book sold over two million copies; it was translated into 25 languages and became a fixture in educated households. Diplomats quoted it. CEOs planned around it. Angell’s conclusions seemed true, without question.
Then the Great War broke out five years later, and the world’s great powers went on to vaporize 16 million human beings and their collective economies. Global trade did not recover its 1913 level for roughly half a century.
Bizarrely, Angell later won the Nobel Peace Prize "for having exposed by his pen the illusion of war and presented a convincing plea for international cooperation and peace." There would not be a less deserving recipient until Henry Kissinger and Barack Obama.
But this same mistake has been repeated again in our own time.
After the Soviet Union fell and American technology took the world by storm in the 1990s, it seemed that global peace and prosperity would last forever.
Even after 9/11 and the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, the world organized itself around America’s leadership.
The dollar was the world's dominant reserve currency. The World Trade Organization tore down tariffs across the board. NATO and the United States Navy guaranteed no major power would risk war.
America supplied the security, the currency, and the rules; in exchange, the world traded and grew under an American-led system. Goods, capital, and supply chains ignored borders.
And for decades it worked reasonably well. But we’re now witnessing its breakdown in real time.
As I write this letter to you, gas stations in Asia are rationing fuel. Hospitals are running out of medical supplies. Major petrochemical producers in South Korea and Singapore (Yeochun and PCS) have declared force majeure, meaning they cannot fulfill their commitments to customers.
The cause is simple: the Strait of Hormuz has been closed for weeks.
The Middle East ships roughly 25% of the world's polypropylene, 20% of its polyethylene, 25% of its sulphur, and 15% of its fertilizer. When that flow stops, factories stop. And remember that about half of what Americans buy comes from those same Asian factories.
Capital Economics, a global research firm, estimates that it could take three months for the resulting plastic shortages to spread globally, and four months until US automakers face aluminum shortages severe enough to cut production.
S&P Global's April survey of manufacturers worldwide shows supplier delivery times lengthening at the fastest pace since August 2022.
Purchasing activity is near a four-year high as companies scramble to stockpile while they still can. Respondents are using "panic" and "emergency" buying language for the first time since the pandemic supply crunch— when Americans waited months for a new car, lumber prices tripled, and store shelves sat empty.
Yet rather than work together to ease the strain, governments are making it worse. With trust between major powers in collapse, every cross-border deal is now treated as a security threat... so they are blocking deals, capping technology transfer, and walling off entire industries.
China just blocked Meta's $2 billion acquisition of an AI startup called Manus; Beijing argues that Manus was developed by Chinese founders with Chinese capital, and therefore an American giant cannot own it.
The United States has been doing the same thing for years— to its strongest allies, no less.
The Biden administration blocked Japanese company Nippon Steel's $15 billion acquisition of US Steel on "national security" grounds, even though Nippon had offered to invest $2.7 billion of Japanese capital into Pennsylvania steel mills.
(Trump later reversed this, and the deal went through with additional government stipulations.)
That is what de-globalization actually looks like in practice: not one dramatic rupture, but the slow accumulation of friction— a closed strait here, a blocked deal there, escalating tariffs, sanctions, "national security" reviews.
Stack enough of this friction together and the world looks entirely different.
Travel becomes harder and more expensive. Raw materials and finished goods become costlier. Specialization and trade become economic drags rather than efficiencies as nations are forced to make more things at home— including the goods that other countries can already manufacture more efficiently.
This is already happening, and it’s difficult to fix. It’s unlikely that anyone can wave a magic wand and bring back the geopolitical cooperation that fueled the world for decades.
The world is not coming to an end. Far from it. But it is changing rapidly.
Less cooperation, more conflict, and more tension has profound implications for future prosperity.
One of the obvious implications we see is that real assets— energy, food, gold, industrial metals— grow in value during times of conflict and global friction.
Tension and protectionism don't reduce demand for any of them; they just make supply harder to get, so prices rise. When supply chains snap and borders tighten, these are the assets that benefit most.
So if you agree with our thesis, i.e. that the world is heading towards more conflict and less cooperation, real assets (and the companies which produce them) are an excellent hedge to offset that risk with financial gain.
To your freedom, James Hickman Co-Founder, Schiff Sovereign LLC
Ariel: The Gold Backing Hammer and the Revaluation Reality
Ariel: The Gold Backing Hammer and the Revaluation Reality
4-28-2026
Currency Update: The Line Has Been Drawn (Pulling The Rug)
Iraq’s own leadership is admitting what the street has known was coming: the IMF is demanding the dinar be backed by gold to handle currency fluctuations.
Iraqi President Nizar Amedi sat with Central Bank Governor Ali al-Alaq and stressed the need to “increase the strength of the Iraqi dinar.” You don’t do that with smoke and mirrors. You do it with a real revaluation plus redenomination (“delete the zeros”) that produces a strong, defensible rate.
Ariel: The Gold Backing Hammer and the Revaluation Reality
4-28-2026
Currency Update: The Line Has Been Drawn (Pulling The Rug)
Iraq’s own leadership is admitting what the street has known was coming: the IMF is demanding the dinar be backed by gold to handle currency fluctuations.
Iraqi President Nizar Amedi sat with Central Bank Governor Ali al-Alaq and stressed the need to “increase the strength of the Iraqi dinar.” You don’t do that with smoke and mirrors. You do it with a real revaluation plus redenomination (“delete the zeros”) that produces a strong, defensible rate.
Gold is the anchor. It is anti-inflation by nature. This is why banks have fought it tooth and nail for years it kills the old skim, the parallel market arbitrage, and the militia cash flows.
The Clarity Act is still grinding through, but the GENIUS Act passage has already flipped the switch. Banks are moving hard into digitized money. The July 2026 full cashless mandate for state institutions is locked. They cannot fake this transition with legacy rails.
One More Thing I Wanted To Add (You Will Love This Part)
When Emerging Market countries sell bonds internationally especially sovereign or quasi-sovereign paper and the proceeds flow in as hard currency (USD, EUR, gold-settled instruments), it creates immediate demand for the local currency.
Foreign investors buy local bonds → they need local currency to settle → central bank prints or releases more local units → supply/demand imbalance pushes the currency stronger in the short-to-medium term.
This is textbook revaluation pressure, not fantasy. Vietnam is running this playbook right now. They are flooding international markets with bonds, strong in capital, and watching the Dong strengthen as money floods in. This is not random. It’s coordinated with the broader compression: stable energy flows post-Iran squeeze, digital migration, and gold-anchored credibility.
Vietnam becomes the visible proof-of-concept for how suppressed currencies can be forced upward through capital inflows rather than central bank decree alone.
Iraq is under the exact same mechanics, only accelerated by brute force. The Federal Reserve restrictions on Trebil imports, dollar shipment cuts, and IMF gold-backing demands are not gentle suggestions. They are creating artificial scarcity that makes international bond sales and capital inflows the only viable oxygen line.
When Iraq sells sovereign or reconstruction bonds internationally (already happening quietly through backchannels), foreign capital pours in, forces dinar demand, and compresses any remaining resistance to a strong, tradable rate.
Read Full Article:
Tuesday Coffee with MarkZ,. 04/28/2026
Tuesday Coffee with MarkZ,. 04/28/2026
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: Happy Terrific Tuesday to all……
Member: Appears we have a new PM for Iraq…. Ali Ali-Zaldi
Tuesday Coffee with MarkZ,. 04/28/2026
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: Happy Terrific Tuesday to all……
Member: Appears we have a new PM for Iraq…. Ali Ali-Zaldi
Member: His background is banking and finance. Barzani was on Iraqi tv congratulating him.
Member: Shite banker nominated as Iraq PM … LETS GOOOOO
MZ: Yes we have a Prime Minister Designate. Now he needs to form the rest of his government. Looks like finally Sudani and Maliki has stepped aside.
Member: I think we are officially off stuck now. Buckle up.
Member: Ali al-Zaidi, a businessman and political newcomer, was named prime minister-designate of Iraq. Selected by the Coordination Framework
Member: Frank26 said the US ok’d Ali Ali Zaldi cause of no ties to Iran
Member: Mark with new prime minister's name as Ali al-Zaldi do you think we have to wait another 30 days for him to form his government before we get an rv?
Member: Mark, so what is your estimated timeline for Iraq and Alak to pull the trigger on the RI/RV now that a PM has been “placed”
MZ: Right after yesterdays podcast a couple bond holders contacted me and said it doesn’t matter who is picked as PM ….They are moving forward.
Member: So do any bond holders have spendable cash?
MZ: yes. But the only people I know that have cash did a “bond flip” They sold to somebody who is selling them to someone else, That does not mean bonds have gone just that someon is spending a lot of money in hopes it will be worth even more soon. A number of nations have been aggregating bonds that way.
Member: Rumor is the dinar rate will be $4.81
Member: We aren't going to know the rate till we're standing before those running the exchange. Anything before then is a guess! IMO
MZ: Exactly.
Member: all I know is when it happens we will all be very happy
Member: Mark, it has been suggested that private exchanges will occur prior to a public rate. Do you believe that to be true and how would that communication and such appointments actually be made?
Member: There are several private groups that go before us I believe……but not by much.
Member: Wolverine said that trump will sign the clarity act by tomorrow at business end
Member: The UAE announced its withdrawal from OPEC and OPEC+ effective May 1, 2026
Member: April 28, 2026, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) officially announced its decision to leave OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance, effective May 1, 2026
Member: Saudi Arabia is thinking about leaving OPEC as well.
Member: Venezuela says entire country gets a May 1st pay raise ....also the same day banks start officially start using XRP
Member: So Venezuela gets pay raise ...XRP starts officially moving between banks....credit rules change ...all May 1st….. how interesting
Member: My end date is July 4. In order for a big birthday celebration you would need something BIG to celebrate. This would be one of those “something bigs” to celebrate. Look forward an things become easier
Member: We are blessed to be a blessing. Don’t miss the opportunity to make someone else’s day.
Member: May everyone’s day be prosperous and peaceful. Thanks Mark and Mods.
Dr. Jay Caprietta joins the stream today. Please listen to replay for his information and opinions
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
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Note from PDK: Please listen to the replay for all the details and entire stream….I do not transcribe political opinions, medical opinions or many guests on this stream……just RV/currency related topics.
THANK YOU FOR JOINING. HAVE A BLESSED DAY. SEE YOU IN THE MORNING FOR COFFEE @ 10:00 AM EST ~ UNLESS BREAKING NEWS HAPPENS! FOR UPDATES ON MARK’S PODCAST GO TO: https://t.me/+b3hYhYlhKM1hYzcx