Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Morning 5-19-26

Parliamentary Integrity: Investigations Into The "Theft Of The Century" Revealed That The Value Of Embezzled Funds Has Risen To Approximately 8 Trillion Dinars.

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad   The Parliamentary Integrity Committee reported on Tuesday that investigations into the "theft of the century" case revealed that the value of embezzled funds had risen to about 8 trillion dinars.  According to the official newspaper, committee member Talib al-Baydani said that "recovering the looted funds is one of the basic duties undertaken by the Federal Integrity Commission in cooperation with the Parliamentary Integrity Committee," stressing that "the committee is continuing to follow up on this file continuously in order to recover Iraq's funds and hold those involved accountable."

Al-Baydani explained that “part of the stolen funds has already been recovered, while other funds are still outside the country and require legal and diplomatic action to recover them,” indicating that “this file needs high-level support and coordination between regulatory and executive bodies, in addition to cooperation with the Prime Minister’s office, which in turn has emphasized the importance of this file as a national priority.”

He pointed out that “the funds that were seized through illegal means must be returned to the state treasury,” stressing that “recovering them represents a real step towards protecting public funds and restoring the rights of Iraqis, as well as holding all those involved in embezzlement or suspicious deals accountable.”

Al-Baydani explained that “the initial estimates for the ‘Theft of the Century’ case indicated the embezzlement of about two and a half trillion dinars, but the investigations conducted by the Integrity Commission revealed the existence of larger sums, raising the value of the embezzled funds to about eight trillion dinars.”

Regarding Iraqi funds and real estate located outside the country, Al-Baydani called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to "intensify its efforts, based on international agreements signed with a number of countries, in order to recover the real estate and assets belonging to the former regime." https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69258

The General Authority Of Customs Announces An Increase In Its Revenues To 1.351 Trillion Dinars

Money and Business    The General Authority of Customs announced today, Monday, that customs revenues have increased to 1 trillion and 351 billion dinars.

The Director General of the Customs Authority, Thamer Qasim Dawood, said in a statement that "Customs revenues have increased to 1 trillion and 351 billion dinars as of 5/17/2026."  https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69247

Foreign Governments Are Abandoning US Treasury Bonds, With China At Its Lowest Holding In 18 Years.

Arabic and international   Economy News - Follow-up   Foreign governments significantly reduced their holdings of US Treasury bonds during March, amid geopolitical turmoil in the Middle East that prompted central banks to sell their dollar reserves to defend their local currencies, following a shock in energy markets that led to a sharp decline in exchange rates.

This decline comes at a time when escalating conflict between the United States and Iran has led to a sharp jump in crude oil prices, causing significant pressure on global currencies, particularly in Asia.

China at its lowest level since 2008

Data from the US Treasury Department showed that China's holdings of Treasury bonds fell to $652.3 billion in March, down nearly 6% from February, marking the lowest level since September 2008, according to a report published by the US network CNBC.

Relative calm in US bond sales amid anticipation of a jump in 30-year yields

This trend reflects the continuation of China’s policy of reducing its direct exposure to US debt since its peak in 2013, despite the continuation of what is known as “indirect holdings” through custody centers in other countries.

Japan reduces its holdings of its largest foreign reserve currency

In the same context, Japan, the largest foreign holder of US Treasury bonds, reduced its holdings by about $47 billion to $1.191 trillion.

Overall, total foreign holdings of U.S. debt fell to $9.25 trillion in March, compared with about $9.49 trillion in February.

This decline coincided with widespread turmoil in currency markets, as the conflict in the Middle East and rising oil prices led to a sharp drop in the Japanese yen and several other Asian currencies.

Energy pressures drive selling of dollar assets

The rise in energy prices has forced economies dependent on importing Gulf oil, most notably Japan, to intervene in currency markets, prompting some central banks to sell part of their dollar-denominated assets, including US Treasury bonds.

Frederic Neumann, chief Asia economist at HSBC, said that increased financial volatility since the start of the Gulf War and exchange rate pressures, particularly in Asia, make it natural for central banks' holdings of US bonds to decline.

He added that foreign exchange market interventions to support local currencies led to the sale of part of these holdings, along with the rebalancing of investment portfolios during periods of tension.

Rating losses and pressure on bonds

Treasury bonds came under additional pressure as yields rose, amid inflation fears stemming from the Middle East crisis, prompting investors to demand higher returns in exchange for holding U.S. debt.

Foreign holdings also suffered significant valuation losses, amounting to $142.1 billion in March alone as a result of the decline in long-term bond prices.

In contrast, Britain bucked the general trend, increasing its holdings by about $29.6 billion to reach $926.9 billion.

China's "indirect holdings"

Despite the decline in China’s direct holdings, analysts believe that official figures may not reflect the true extent of Beijing’s exposure to the US market, as it is believed that some of the investments pass through custody centers such as Belgium and Luxembourg.

According to experts, these "indirect holdings" appear relatively stable, with Belgium holding $454 billion and Luxembourg holding approximately $439.4 billion in US Treasury bonds.

Becky Liu, executive director of global research at Fidelity International, said that China’s total holdings of US bonds remain relatively stable, noting that short-term volatility is the main factor behind recent movements.

Japan and political pressures

In Japan, policymakers in Washington are closely watching the possibility that Tokyo might resort to selling more bonds to finance interventions in the currency market to support the yen.

The Bank of Japan had intervened in the foreign exchange markets in late March and early April after the yen fell to politically sensitive levels near 160 yen to the dollar, amid concerns that the current account deficit would worsen as a result of rising energy import costs.

Vikas Birshad, portfolio manager at M&G Investments, said the message from U.S. policymakers is clear: "The preferred option is not to sell Treasury bonds," noting that Washington sees alternatives such as trade deals in critical metals, technology, and defense to ease pressure on foreign reserves. https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69272

Cyprus Plans To Export Natural Gas To Europe Via Egypt By 2028

Arabic and international     Economy News - Follow-up   Cypriot President Nicos Christodoulides announced on Tuesday, ahead of a cabinet meeting, that his country aims to sell its first shipment of natural gas to European markets via Egypt in 2028, according to Bloomberg News.

In a statement issued by the official press office, Christodoulides explained that the Cabinet would today approve the development and production plan for the Kronos gas field, as well as agreements relating to the basic terms of the sale of Cypriot natural gas.

The Cypriot president also indicated that further announcements would be made very soon, in cooperation with ExxonMobil, saying: "Consultations are now at an advanced stage, and we will very soon be in a position to announce the next steps in detail."

He noted that Cyprus and Egypt had previously signed a framework agreement for cooperation in the field of natural gas to link and develop Cypriot offshore fields with Egyptian infrastructure in preparation for liquefying and re-exporting it.

The Italian company Eni also signed a deal with Egypt and Cyprus to develop and export gas discovered in Cypriot waters.https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69273

Al-Zaydi And Amidi Stress The Need For Continued Coordination Between The Four Presidencies To Preserve Stability.

Localities      Economy News – Baghdad   Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi and President Nizar Amidi stressed on Tuesday the need for continued coordination and cooperation between the four presidencies in order to preserve stability.

The Prime Minister’s Media Office stated in a statement received by “Al-Eqtisad News” that “the Prime Minister received President Nizar Amidi, who offered his congratulations on the new government gaining the confidence of the House of Representatives.”

The statement added that "the meeting discussed the overall situation in Iraq, and the importance of supporting the government in implementing its governmental program and development plans in a way that contributes to improving the service and economic situation and meeting the needs of citizens."

He added that "both sides stressed the need for continued coordination and cooperation between the four presidencies, in order to preserve stability and enhance joint efforts to serve the country." https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69271

Jon Dowling & Mark Z Discuss New Developments in the Greatest Wealth Transfer

Jon Dowling & Mark Z Discuss New Developments in the Greatest Wealth Transfer

5-18-2026

We are currently living through a period of profound global transformation. As geopolitical tensions rise and traditional financial frameworks begin to show signs of strain, many observers are turning their attention toward the concept of a “global financial reset.”

A recent podcast featuring Jon Dowling provides a detailed look at how these massive shifts—ranging from international policy changes to the evolution of digital assets—are actively reshaping our world today

A central theme of the discussion is the shifting power dynamics within the Middle East and beyond. The hosts examine the complex interactions between major world powers, including the United States, China, Russia, and Israel.

By analyzing recent developments—such as changes in leadership within Iraq and the tentative lifting of certain sanctions on Iran—the conversation highlights how these regional adjustments are not isolated events. Instead, they appear to be part of a larger, systemic transition that could redefine global influence, with some experts theorizing about the emergence of a regional pivot toward historical spheres of influence.

Beyond geopolitics, the podcast addresses the anticipated “great wealth transfer” and the transition away from traditional fiat currency systems.

As the world moves toward asset-backed digital currencies, the hosts emphasize that we are witnessing a fundamental change in how value is stored and exchanged.

The discussion touches upon significant milestones, such as Iraq’s digital currency rollout and the ongoing conversations surrounding a potential return to the gold standard, often cited in discussions regarding revitalizing the U.S. economy. For those looking to understand these developments, the conversation offers a unique look at why strategic positioning is becoming increasingly vital.

Perhaps the most crucial takeaway from the discussion is the importance of mental and practical readiness. The speakers lean into the idea that these transitions are not just financial, but have moral and humanitarian dimensions.

By encouraging listeners to remain resilient and informed, the podcast highlights that preparation is key to navigating the weeks and months ahead. Whether it is through understanding the mechanics of an overhauled banking system or recognizing the shifts in global trade, being proactive is stressed as a necessary step for those looking to stay ahead of the curve.

The rapidly evolving financial landscape can feel overwhelming, but staying informed is the first step toward effective planning. As the world undergoes this period of adjustment, it is essential to look at the data, observe the markers, and consider how these changes apply to your own personal strategy.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of these complex topics and practical insights into how to navigate this changing landscape, we encourage you to watch the full video from Jon Dowling. Staying connected to expert analysis is an invaluable tool in ensuring you are prepared for whatever comes next in our global economy.

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

https://dinarchronicles.com/2026/05/19/jon-dowling-iran-sanctions-lifted-dinar-and-currency-updates-with-markz-may-2026/

FRANK26…5-18-26…..HCL RATE

KTFA

Monday Night Video

FRANK26…5-18-26…..HCL RATE

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#

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJ4vMhjTJ6I

The Decade That Made Secession Seem Normal

The Decade That Made Secession Seem Normal

Notes From the Field By James Hickman (Simon Black / Sovereign Man)   May 18, 2026

Almost ten years ago to the day, I woke up in my hotel room in Bangkok and flipped on the TV; it was late, late in the evening in the UK, and the BBC News was broadcasting live coverage of the Brexit vote.

As the results slowly trickled in and it became clear that Brexit would prevail, the news anchors could not hide their shock and horror; the idea that British voters would actually choose to leave the European Union was, to them, incomprehensible.

A decade later, things like that which once seemed incomprehensible are now becoming mainstream. Britain is just the tip of the iceberg— it’s happening all across the west.

Earlier this month in Wales, voters elected the ‘Plaid Cymru’ party to its first majority ever; this is the party that has campaigned for decades to secede from the United Kingdom and make Wales independent.

The same dynamic is now playing out in Canada.

A decade under Justin Trudeau-Castro’s policies, which sacrificed the Canadian economy on the twin altars of climate religion and identity politics, has produced a country measurably poorer than the United States across the border.

In 2014 the per-capita GDP gap between Canada and the US was around 24%. Today it has grown to 43%.

And the OECD now projects Canada will rank dead last among developed economies for real GDP per capita growth through 2060.

So, on May 2, organizers in the province of Alberta handed-in over 300,000 signatures, more than 10% of Alberta’s registered voters, demanding a referendum on independence.

People have a breaking point. And when they reach it, they vote with with their ballots... with their wallets... and with their feet.

Take corporate America. For as long as anyone can remember, the standard practice for any serious American company was to incorporate in Delaware. And for more than two centuries, any serious financial firm was based almost entirely on Wall Street.

But in January 2024, the Delaware Court of Chancery rescinded Elon Musk's $56 billion Tesla compensation package— a single ruling that told every public company in America that corporate law could be relitigated on a whim.

Tesla and SpaceX reincorporated in Texas. Coinbase followed them. Dropbox decamped to Nevada. Dell is redomiciling to Texas. One company after another is leaving Delaware for good.

It’s the same with Wall Street.

Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, was blunt about the changing dynamic in his April shareholder letter: "Individuals vote with their feet. You can already see a fairly large exodus of people and jobs out of some states with high taxes and high expenses."

In his own estimate, JPMorgan now employs 32,000 people in Texas, up from 26,000 a decade ago. Its New York headcount over the same period fell from 30,000 to 24,000.

The IRS migration data tells the same story one household at a time. Between 2019 and 2023, California's cumulative net outflow amounted to $91.4 billion in Adjustable Gross Income; that’s a huge loss of their tax base.

Meanwhile, Florida's cumulative net inflow came to $137 billion.

Hollywood is also instrumental.

One, the audience has voted with its wallets, hence the string of box office bombs. People don't go to the movies to be lectured on social justice. They want to be entertained.

But for the past decade, Hollywood decided audiences needed to hear about racial injustice, gender identity, and climate change instead. Studios have racked up enormous losses as a result.

Second, no one wants to make films in Hollywood anymore because of the insane costs and regulations of doing business in California.

Instead, Atlanta wins because Georgia offers an uncapped 30% tax credit. Plenty of foreign countries offer far more. Plus production companies filming outside of California don’t have to deal with unions, taxes, or political hostility.

Consumers have been delivering the same lesson for years.

Bud Light decided in 2023 that its core demographic was, apparently, trans activists. American beer drinkers knocked the brand from #1 to #3 in the country and stripped more than $1 billion in lost sales out of its parent company.

Gillette tried it during #metoo, with a 2019 ad lecturing its male customers about how to be "the best men they can be." P&G took an $8 billion write-down on the brand the same year.

Personally I have never bought a Gillette product since.

But think about the trend: a decade ago, almost none of this was thinkable.

Brexit was treated as a national psychotic break. A large voting bloc interested in their province seceding from Canada was ludicrous. And why on earth would a serious company leave Delaware, any serious banker leave Wall Street, or any red-blooded American stop buying Bud Light?

And yet it’s all happened.

Frankly it’s a cause for optimism. The people running these institutions are finding out the hard way that everyone has a vote— at the ballot box, with their feet, and with their wallets.

Just imagine what another 10 years of this trend will look like.

 To your freedom,   James Hickman  Co-Founder, Schiff Sovereign LLC

The decade that made secession seem normal | Schiff Sovereign

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Monday Evening 5-18-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

Bitcoin Shockwave Signals How Geopolitics Is Reshaping the Future of Global Finance

Escalating Iran tensions, collapsing crypto prices, and the growing use of stablecoins by sanctioned states are exposing how deeply digital assets are now tied to the emerging multipolar financial system.

Overview

Bitcoin and the broader cryptocurrency market suffered a sharp selloff after renewed geopolitical tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran triggered fears of military escalation and further disruption in global energy markets. At the same time, new intelligence reports revealed that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has dramatically expanded its use of cryptocurrencies — especially stablecoins — to operate around sanctions and support cross-border trade.

Together, these developments highlight a major shift in global finance. Cryptocurrency is no longer just a speculative asset class. It is increasingly becoming part of geopolitical strategy, sanctions evasion, energy trade, and the broader movement toward a fragmented financial system outside traditional Western banking networks.

Key Developments

1. Bitcoin Drops Sharply as Iran Conflict Escalates

Bitcoin plunged from above $82,000 to nearly $76,000 after reports surfaced that the United States and Israel were considering expanded military operations against Iran.

The selloff erased more than $40 billion in crypto market capitalization within hours as investors fled risk assets amid rising fears of broader conflict in the Middle East.

Oil prices simultaneously surged above $105 per barrel, increasing inflation concerns and strengthening expectations that central banks may keep interest rates elevated longer than expected.

Analysts warned that continued instability around the Strait of Hormuz could trigger even greater volatility across global markets, including crypto.

2. Massive Liquidations Reveal Fragility of Crypto Markets

The market decline triggered a wave of forced liquidations across leveraged crypto positions.

Nearly $700 million in derivative positions were wiped out in 24 hours, including more than $600 million in bullish long trades.

This event demonstrated how tightly connected cryptocurrency markets have become to global macroeconomic and geopolitical developments. Rather than acting as a safe haven, Bitcoin traded more like a high-risk speculative asset during the crisis.

Several analysts now warn that if geopolitical tensions worsen further, Bitcoin could retest support levels near $65,000.

3. Iran Expands Use of Stablecoins and Crypto Infrastructure

While Bitcoin prices were collapsing globally, new research from blockchain intelligence firm Chainalysis revealed that the IRGC now controls a significant share of Iran’s domestic crypto economy.

According to the report, IRGC-linked wallets processed more than $3 billion in crypto activity during 2025, accounting for nearly half of Iran’s crypto transaction volume in late 2025.

More importantly, analysts noted that Iran increasingly favors stablecoins over Bitcoin for trade and sanctions avoidance because stablecoins allow faster settlement and maintain dollar-linked value.

This development is highly significant because it demonstrates how sanctioned nations are building parallel financial systems that operate outside traditional banking structures.

4. Strait of Hormuz Crisis Raises Global Financial Risks

The conflict surrounding the Strait of Hormuz continues to drive uncertainty across global energy and financial markets.

Because nearly one-fifth of global oil and LNG shipments move through the strait, any disruption creates immediate ripple effects across inflation, currencies, shipping costs, and commodity prices.

The combination of rising oil prices, crypto instability, sanctions pressure, and growing adoption of alternative payment rails is accelerating conversations around de-dollarization and financial decentralization worldwide.

Why It Matters

The recent Bitcoin collapse is about far more than cryptocurrency volatility.

It reflects how the global financial system is becoming increasingly tied to geopolitical fragmentation, sanctions warfare, energy security, and digital finance infrastructure.

At the same time, Iran’s expanding use of stablecoins highlights a broader trend where countries facing sanctions are turning to blockchain systems to bypass traditional Western-controlled financial channels.

This shift has major implications for the future role of the US dollar, international banking networks, and the structure of global reserve systems.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For those watching the global reset narrative, this situation demonstrates several important trends:

• Digital assets are becoming geopolitical tools

• Stablecoins may play a future role in cross-border trade systems

• Energy disruptions continue driving inflation and monetary instability

• Confidence in centralized financial systems is weakening

• Alternative settlement mechanisms are expanding globally

The growing overlap between crypto markets, energy trade, and sanctions policy suggests the next phase of global finance may involve a hybrid system combining traditional currencies, commodities, and digital settlement rails.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Fragmentation of the Dollar-Based System

Iran’s growing use of crypto and stablecoins illustrates how nations are increasingly seeking alternatives to the traditional US dollar banking system.

While the dollar remains dominant globally, parallel financial ecosystems are slowly emerging beneath the surface.

• Pillar 2: Digital Finance and Commodity Control Converge

The Strait of Hormuz crisis demonstrates how energy control, digital finance, and geopolitical power are becoming interconnected.

Future global trade systems may increasingly rely on digital settlement tools tied to commodities, regional blocs, or alternative reserve structures.

Closing Thought

This is no longer simply a crypto story — it is a warning sign that global finance, energy security, and geopolitical conflict are rapidly converging into a new financial era.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• BeInCrypto — “Bitcoin Gets the Headlines, But Iran’s IRGC Runs on Something Else: Chainalysis”

• Cointelegraph — “Bitcoin Falls to $76K After Trump Says ‘Clock Is Ticking’ for Iran”

~~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

RV Facts with Proof Links Link

RV Updates Proof links - Facts Link

Follow the Gold/Silver Rate COMEX

Follow Fast Facts

Seeds of Wisdom Team™Website

Thank you Dinar Recaps

U.S. Has Reached ‘Choose Your Poison’ Moment: Save the Dollar or Save Treasuries

U.S. Has Reached ‘Choose Your Poison’ Moment: Save the Dollar or Save Treasuries | Gromen & Makori

Miles Franklin Media:  5-18-2026

Michelle Makori, President & Editor-in-Chief of Miles Franklin Media, sits down with Luke Gromen, Founder & President of FFTT LLC, for a deep-dive into what he believes is becoming an unavoidable monetary breaking point for the United States.

 Gromen warns that the U.S. may soon face a historic “choose your poison” moment: save the dollar or save the Treasury market.

As the Iran conflict, rising oil prices, inflation pressures, and sovereign debt stress converge, he argues policymakers may ultimately be forced to inject liquidity into an inflation spike – weakening the dollar to keep the financial system functioning.

In this episode of The Real Story with Michelle Makori:

• Why the U.S. may have to choose between saving the dollar or Treasuries
  
  

• The Iran war’s impact on inflation, oil, and sovereign debt markets
  
  

• Why Luke Gromen says “the release valve becomes the dollar”
  
  

• Gold’s growing role as a neutral reserve asset
  
  

• Why Gromen believes gold could rise 5X-10X
  
  

• The possibility of gold being revalued against oil
  
  

• Why central banks continue aggressively buying gold
  
  

• Trump’s China negotiations and the future of the dollar system
  
  

• Bitcoin’s role in the coming monetary reset
  
  

00:00 – Coming Up

02:27 – Introduction

06:25 – The Debt Spiral

08:08 – Is the Fed Already Injecting Liquidity?

10:26 – How Governments Will “Save” the Treasury Market

14:22 – The Real Tradeoff: Weak Dollar or Inflation Spike

:35 – What This Means for Investors and Markets

24:15 – Trump’s China Trip and the Real Power Shift

31:25 – Did the U.S. Miscalculate Iran?

37:46 – “It’s a Giant Mexican Standoff”

40:22 – The Most Likely Endgame for the Iran Conflict

51:19 – Why the Dollar Still Dominates Global Payments

54:39 – Gold as the New Neutral Reserve Asset

58:08 – China’s Message to America: “Let Gold Rise”

1:05:02 – Trump & Fort Knox

1:09:27 – Is the U.S. Quietly Settling Trade Deficits in Gold?

1:12:25 – Gold Could Reach $15K-$22K This Cycle

1:14:22 – Gromen’s Base Case

1:15:33 – Gold vs. Bitcoin in the New Monetary System

1:20:23 – Why Gromen Prices Everything in Gold

1:23:41 – Portfolio Positioning

1:27:08 – Are We Already Entering a “Crack-Up Boom”?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ukTFn2Ocrk

Ross: IQD Revaluation is Tied to the Adoption of Crypto

Ross: IQD Revaluation is Tied to the Adoption of Crypto

5-18-2026

XRP IQD (Supercharges)

Iraq: $100B foreign reserves (CBI: covers 12 months of imports).

Major chunk funds bills, dollar auctions & trade buffers.

Global XRP adoption + ODL slashes that need (12mo → 3mo).

Same reserves now 2-4x more effective for IQD stability & backing.

No more idle cash for tomorrow’s imports — full power toward currency strength.

If you don’t believe me or you don’t get it, read this.

Ross:  The Iran War has Iraq’s Foreign Reserves Under Heavy Pressure — a Signal for the XRP Revolution.

Oil revenues are down, yet the country still has to maintain massive dollar stockpiles just to cover imports, service debt, and stabilize the dinar peg. This pressure is exactly why efficient digital solutions like XRP and its on-demand liquidity model were built.

Instead of tying up billions in idle nostro and vostro accounts across foreign currencies, banks can instantly convert local currency to XRP—or Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin—and then to the destination currency on the XRPL.

No delays, no correspondent banking headaches, and dramatically reduced need for massive FX reserves sitting idle. As XRP becomes the bridge asset for central banks and institutions, countries like Iraq could slash the transactional portion of their reserves.

You wouldn’t need to hoard dollars just to settle tomorrow’s oil invoices or pay for imports. Of course, nations will still hold buffers for trade imbalances, economic shocks, and currency confidence. But XRP doesn’t eliminate the need for reserves—it shrinks the reasons for holding so many of them.

 XRP shifts Iraq’s reserves from constantly covering the bills to primarily backing the currency itself — providing fuel for a massive revaluation.

Iraq’s current reserve bleed is the perfect pressure point making these digital rails highly attractive. And Iraq is already moving in this direction with a digital dinar.

The Central Bank of Iraq is working on a CBDC—a stablecoin-like version of the dinar, backed 1:1 by the central bank itself. This digital native currency aims to reduce cash hoarding, cut printing costs, keep money in the formal system, and enable faster, cheaper payments both domestically and across borders.

The digital dinar isn’t some private token; it’s official e-cash on a ledger—programmable, trackable, and instantly settleable.

It fights dollarization and improves liquidity management. Paired with global rails like XRPL, it reduces the pressure to defend the physical currency through endless dollar sales.

A revalued, stronger dinar would make this digital version far more credible and attractive internationally. People want to hold and use a currency that feels stable and valuable.

You can’t have a sudden massive revaluation without reforms — that could wreck exports and destroy the reserves they’re trying to protect. Instead, the blueprint is clear: stabilize via the current peg, build the digital infrastructure, integrate efficient cross-border rails like XRP, diversify the economy, and then revalue to support tokenization.

The digital dinar can launch regardless of the current rate but why launch digital garbage? What it needs is stability, trust in the central bank, and interoperability with the world.

This reserve situation and Iraq’s CBDC push? It’s a major clue about what’s coming: a modernized, tokenized Iraqi dinar built for the digital age, with less reliance on bloated dollar reserves.

Tokenization is fuel for the revaluation. A tokenized dinar = improved credibility/stability/functionality. The writing is on the wall for what’s coming. This is what’s different this time around.

Ross:  Why you CANNOT tokenize a hyperinflated currency like IQD in its current broken state: Tokenization is just a digital mirror. It copies the currency 1:1 onto the blockchain.

If the rate is still crushed at 1,300+ to 1 USD (a relic of sanctions & war) you’re only uploading digital garbage. Zero real value. Zero trust. Zero liquidity. No serious player will use it for settlement.

BlackRock - one of the key architects in DTCC’s tokenization launch (limited production July 2026, full Oct) - won’t touch it. They’re building the rails for trillions in real assets (Russell 1000 stocks, ETFs & Treasuries on Canton). They demand legitimate on-chain cash legs.

Sequence is everything: Revalue FIRST to reflect Iraq’s true wealth. THEN tokenize the new, strong dinar so it slots perfectly into the CLARITY + DTCC + stablecoin ecosystem.

BlackRock & major institutions will settle in multiple high-quality tokenized currencies (regulated stablecoins + tokenized deposits). A revalued, gold/oil-backed tokenized IQD at or above USD parity becomes a powerful option for diversification, Middle East oil-trade settlement, hedging, and 24/7 global liquidity. That’s the real play.

When will IQD RV?

Look no further than the Reverse Carry Trade unwinding — the catalyst for XRP mass adoption.

The Clarity Act is the signal that it’s almost time.

Everything is converging nicely right now, there’s no denying it.

Buckle up.

IQD Revaluing is Directly Tied to the Mass Adoption of Crypto.

Progress was made today.

The CBI is making serious strides on digital transformation ahead of the July 2026 government cashless deadline — fascinating how it syncs with President Trump’s July 4th Clarity Act deadline.

Governor Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq personally chaired a high-level meeting today with all licensed electronic payment companies.

They directly addressed the main technical, administrative, and regulatory challenges in the sector.

The group worked on upgrading and expanding electronic payment services across Iraq — the exact infrastructure needed to support future crypto integration.

Boosting overall efficiency in banking and finance was a central focus.

This represents important progress toward Iraq’s modern digital economy and positions the country to participate safely in the global crypto space.

The CBI continues demanding full compliance with its rules and international best practices — critical groundwork for regulated crypto adoption.

Security, reliability, and stronger digital infrastructure were key priorities that will enable secure crypto rails.

Expanding financial inclusion for the Iraqi people remains a top goal, building the user base ready for digital assets.

While this is not a rate change or RV announcement, these steps are building a solid foundation for a much stronger dinar in a crypto-enabled world.

The CBI is methodically constructing the infrastructure for a more powerful, globally respected Iraqi dinar future — perfectly timed to ride the coming wave of digital asset clarity.

Iraq’s government deadlock is finally ending, its digital economy is accelerating, the U.S. is rolling out crypto regulatory clarity, the reverse carry trade is set to unwind, and major geopolitical realignments are unfolding.

These forces are not converging by accident.

They are aligning to unlock Iraq’s economic rebirth and deliver a far stronger, globally relevant Iraqi dinar.

You are watching the foundation of one of the most significant monetary shifts in modern history take shape right now.

NCSWIC.

Source(s):
• https://x.com/Ross_ptm/status/2056036031565361468
• https://x.com/Ross_ptm/status/2056049113221767348
• https://x.com/Ross_ptm/status/2056107330199245036

https://dinarchronicles.com/2026/05/17/ross-iqd-revaluation-is-tied-to-the-adoption-of-crypto/

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Monday Afternoon 5-18-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

Cuba–U.S. Tensions Escalate: Drone Claims, Energy Collapse, and Military Threats Raise Regional Stability Risks

Growing confrontation between Washington and Havana is reviving Cold War-era tensions at a time of rising geopolitical fragmentation and global financial uncertainty

Warnings of military confrontation between Cuba and the United States are intensifying concerns over regional stability, energy disruptions, and the expanding overlap between geopolitics and financial risk.

OVERVIEW (KEY POINTS)

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel warned today that any United States military action against Cuba would trigger a “bloodbath” with severe consequences for regional peace and stability.

The warning follows reports alleging Cuba acquired more than 300 military drones and discussed possible strikes on U.S. targets including the naval base at Guantánamo Bay and military assets near Florida.

At the same time, Cuba is facing one of its worst economic and energy crises in decades after severe fuel shortages and electricity blackouts intensified across the island following tighter U.S. pressure and energy restrictions.

The developments are drawing international attention because they reflect a broader trend of geopolitical escalation spreading across multiple regions simultaneously — a growing factor impacting global markets, commodity flows, and financial stability.

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

1. Cuba Warns of “Bloodbath” if Military Action Occurs

Tensions sharply escalated following public warnings from Havana.

• President Díaz-Canel stated Cuba poses “no threat” but would defend itself if attacked

• Cuban officials accused Washington of using false pretexts to justify aggression

• Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez cited Cuba’s right to self-defense under international law

2. Drone Allegations Intensify Security Concerns

Reports regarding military drones heightened tensions further.

• Axios reported Cuba allegedly obtained 300+ military drones

• Alleged targets included Guantánamo Bay and U.S. naval assets

• Cuban officials strongly denied aggressive intentions and called the claims politically motivated

3. Cuba’s Energy Crisis Deepens

Economic conditions on the island continue deteriorating rapidly.

• Severe fuel shortages are causing prolonged blackouts

• Electricity availability reportedly dropped to only a few hours daily in some regions

• Cuba blames tighter U.S. sanctions and energy restrictions for worsening conditions

4. Trump Administration Pressure Continues Expanding

Washington’s posture toward Havana has become increasingly aggressive.

• Reports indicate U.S. prosecutors may seek an indictment against former leader Raúl Castro

• Additional sanctions and strategic pressure are being discussed

• U.S.-Cuba relations are now at some of their lowest levels in decades

5. Regional Stability Risks Are Rising

The situation carries broader geopolitical implications.

• Caribbean trade and shipping routes remain strategically important

• Increased military tensions near Florida and Guantánamo raise security concerns

• Analysts warn that even limited escalation could impact regional markets and investor confidence

WHY IT MATTERS

The Cuba situation matters because it reflects the growing intersection between geopolitical confrontation, economic pressure, and financial instability.

The combination of sanctions, energy shortages, and military rhetoric increases uncertainty not only for the Caribbean region but also for broader global markets already dealing with elevated geopolitical risk.

It also demonstrates how economic tools such as sanctions and energy restrictions are increasingly being used alongside military and diplomatic pressure as part of modern geopolitical strategy.

At a time when markets are already sensitive to disruptions involving energy flows, trade routes, and sovereign debt, another major geopolitical flashpoint could further strain investor confidence globally.

WHY IT MATTERS TO FOREIGN CURRENCY HOLDERS

• Geopolitical instability often increases demand for safe-haven assets like gold

• Energy disruptions can fuel inflation and weaken fiat purchasing power

• Regional instability may increase currency volatility across emerging markets

• Sanctions-driven economic fragmentation continues accelerating multipolar trade systems

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE GLOBAL RESET

• Pillar 1: Geopolitical Fragmentation Expands

The rise in U.S.-Cuba tensions reflects a broader pattern of increasing regional confrontation shaping global financial and trade systems.

• Pillar 2: Economic Pressure Becomes a Strategic Weapon

Sanctions, energy blockades, and financial isolation are increasingly central tools in geopolitical competition, influencing global reserve and trade strategies.

CONCLUSION

The renewed confrontation between Cuba and the United States represents more than a regional dispute.

It highlights how geopolitical tensions, economic sanctions, and energy instability are becoming deeply interconnected within the evolving global financial landscape.

As nations increasingly rely on economic leverage and strategic pressure rather than traditional diplomacy alone, global markets may face higher volatility and greater fragmentation in the years ahead.

The growing overlap between geopolitics and economics is becoming one of the defining forces behind the emerging global financial reset.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters — "Cuba Warns U.S. Military Action Would Cause ‘Bloodbath’ After Drone Report"

• Modern Diplomacy — "Cuba Warns U.S. Military Action Would Trigger ‘Bloodbath’"

~~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

Newshound's News Telegram Room Link

RV Facts with Proof Links Link

RV Updates Proof links - Facts Link

Follow the Gold/Silver Rate COMEX

Follow Fast Facts

Seeds of Wisdom Team™Website

Thank you Dinar Recaps

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Monday Afternoon 5-18-26

Calls To Expedite The Submission Of The Budget To The House Of Representatives And Warnings Against Delaying Its Approval

Economy News — Baghdad   Member of Parliament Ahlam Al-Kakaei warned of the repercussions of the continued delay in approving the general budget, indicating that the absence of the budget has caused the suspension of many projects and has directly affected the service situation and development plans.

Al-Kaka’i added, in a statement to the official newspaper, that “Parliament extended its holiday due to the issue of forming the government cabinet, before later heading to the legislative holiday, which may lead to further delays in approving the budget if there is no political will to expedite its resolution.”

She stressed that “the continued delay in the budget will affect the launch of new projects and the completion of stalled projects, as well as disrupting the financial obligations of government institutions, stressing the need to expedite the submission of the draft budget to the House of Representatives for discussion and approval.” https://www.economy-news.net/content.php?id=69165

CBI: Iraq Posts About $25 Billion Trade Surplus In 2025

2026-05-18 / Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq recorded a trade surplus of approximately $24.686 billion in 2025, driven by exports outpacing imports across all four quarters of the year, according to data released Monday by the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI).

Total exports reached roughly $90.43 billion against imports of $65.74 billion, based on foreign trade figures calculated on a free-on-board (FOB) basis —a methodology that values goods at the point of loading in the exporting country, excluding shipping and insurance costs. 

Exports declined gradually through the first three quarters before a marginal recovery in the final months of the year. The first quarter led with $24.11 billion, followed by $23.29 billion in the second quarter and $21.41 billion in the third, before edging up to $21.62 billion in the fourth quarter. 

Imports followed a broadly similar downward trajectory. The first quarter recorded $18.16 billion, with the figure falling to $15.99 billion in the second quarter and $16.10 billion in the third, before dropping to $15.49 billion in the fourth —the lowest quarterly import figure of the year. 

The surplus was sustained in every quarter without exception, with exports consistently exceeding imports throughout 2025, the data showed.  https://shafaq.com/en/Economy/CBI-Iraq-posts-about-25-billion-trade-surplus-in-2025

US Denies Official Petraeus Role In Baghdad Visit

2026-05-18 / 04:25  Shafaq News- Washington    Former CIA Director Gen. David Petraeus does not hold any position within the US mission in Iraq, a US State Department spokesperson told Shafaq News on Monday, dismissing speculation surrounding his recent visit to Baghdad. 

Petraeus visited the Iraqi capital on Friday and held meetings with senior Iraqi officials, without any official clarification regarding the purpose of the trip or the capacity in which he attended.

 The visit fueled media reports suggesting that Petraeus, who previously commanded US forces during the Iraq war, had been assigned a special mission or was acting as an envoy for US President Donald Trump. Some reports linked the visit to what they described as growing US pressure on the Iraqi government over Iran-aligned armed factions operating in Iraq. 

For Shafaq News, Mostafa Hashem, Washington, DC.

Read more: Iraq after the regional ceasefire: US bases and unresolved political questions

https://www.shafaq.com/en/Iraq/US-denies-official-Petraeus-role-in-Baghdad-visit

A Najafi Source: Al-Sadr's Contact With Al-Zaydi Constitutes A "Shock" Within The Coordination Framework Forces, And There Are Fears Of Support For Al-Hanana

latest news   Monday,   May 18, 2026  Najaf – One News    A source in Najaf revealed that the phone call made by the leader of the Shiite National Movement, Muqtada al-Sadr, to Prime Minister Ali al-Zidi constituted a “shock” within the forces of the Coordination Framework, in light of what he described as growing fears about the repercussions of al-Sadr’s support for al-Zaidi on the balance of political power. 

The source said that al-Sadr’s support for al-Zaydi “will put him in a stronger position against the interventions of some of the cadre leaders”, noting that al-Sadr sees in al-Zaydi “a figure who possesses the necessary determination to correct the course of the political process and save the country”, as he put it. 

 He added that al-Sadr supports the government's approach to combating corruption, and believes that the current stage requires giving the Prime Minister more space to implement real reforms away from political pressures and partisan rivalries. 

The source indicated that the atmosphere of concern within the coordination framework escalated after the contact, amid estimates that any rapprochement between Al-Sadr and Al-Zaydi could redraw political alliances during the next stage.    https://1news-iq.net/مصدر-نجفي-اتصال-الصدربالزيديشكّل-صدم/

An Economic Expert Says Iraq Needs About 7 Trillion Dinars To Cover Operational Expenses This Month.

Baghdad – One News   Nabil Al-Marsoumi, an expert in economic affairs, confirmed that Iraq needs about 7 trillion dinars to cover operational spending during the current month, noting that current oil revenues do not exceed 2 trillion dinars, which is insufficient to secure salaries and the costs of electricity and imported gas.

Al-Marsoumi explained that the budget deficit is likely to worsen starting this May, due to the significant decline in oil revenues resulting from a decrease in Iraqi exports by more than 90%, which led to revenues dropping to about one billion dollars last April.

 He added that the oil revenues achieved last March amounted to about two and a half trillion dinars, while salaries alone require more than 7 trillion dinars, which means there is a large financial gap that threatens to cover basic operating expenses, including the import of gas, electricity, medicine and social welfare. https://1news-iq.net/خبير-اقتصادي-العراق-بحاجة-إلى-نحو-7-تري/

A Member Of The Parliamentary Finance Committee Told NINA: "The Next Stage Will Be Very Difficult... Economically."

Saturday, May 16, 2026| Economy   Baghdad / NINA / Member of the Parliamentary Finance Committee, MP Mustafa al-Karawi, affirmed that Iraq is facing a very difficult economic phase, attributing this to the widening budget deficit, low revenues, and the failure to find alternatives to oil to finance the country's economy.

Al-Karawi told the Iraqi National News Agency ( NINA 😞 "Following the economic crisis that occurred in the region due to the Iran-US war and the previous Iraqi government's inability to find solutions for oil exports, the budget deficit and low revenues have widened due to the failure to find alternatives to oil by increasing non-oil revenues."

The Finance Committee member emphasized: "The coming period will be very difficult due to the lack of non-oil funding sources, as non-oil revenues constitute only 10% of total revenues. This will significantly impact the revenue generated and its direct dependence on external regional conditions."

He explained: "The continuation of this situation will greatly affect the provision of services and the implementation of investment projects due to the lack of financial liquidity."

He expressed his hope that the new government would find real solutions to build a strong domestic economy and establish systems to effectively manage non-oil revenues, significantly reducing dependence on oil. /End 8. https://ninanews.com/Website/News/Details?key=1295740

Between An "Army Of Employees" And A Million Graduates... The Iraqi Economy Teeters On The Brink - Urgent

 Baghdad Today – Baghdad   At a time when concerns are rising about the future of the labor market in Iraq, attention is turning to a cumulative economic crisis that is threatening the state’s ability to continue its open government employment policy, amid warnings of a wave of unemployment that could worsen with the increasing number of university graduates in the coming years.

In this context, economist Raad Al-Masoudi warns that government departments are no longer able to absorb more employees within state institutions, stressing that the output of Iraqi universities will approach the one million graduate mark within a few years, a number that exceeds the capacity of the government sector to accommodate.

Al-Masoudi told Baghdad Today on Saturday (May 16, 2026) that the employment policy that expanded after 2003 has, over time, turned into a tool used by some political forces to gain popular support by opening the doors of appointments during election seasons, instead of adopting the criteria of the actual needs of institutions.

He added that the inflated number of employees has created a state of “disguised unemployment” within many government departments, at a time when other ministries and institutions are suffering from a real shortage of specialists, which has led to a clear imbalance in the structure of the state’s administrative apparatus.

He pointed out that the salaries file now consumes the largest part of the operational expenses of the general budget, noting that oil revenues are barely sufficient to cover salaries, given that the Iraqi economy depends almost entirely on crude oil exports.

Al-Masoudi stressed that the current stage requires “deep economic surgery”, starting with rebuilding the private sector and opening the doors to real investment, in addition to supporting the stalled sectors, especially industry and agriculture, in order to create sustainable job opportunities for young people away from temporary government appointments.

He called for the adoption of a comprehensive national strategy to address economic imbalances, warning that continuing the current approach would put the country in front of more serious challenges, especially with regional turmoil and oil market fluctuations, which could affect Iraq’s ability to secure its basic revenues in the future.

After 2003, Iraq witnessed an unprecedented expansion in government employment, as state institutions became the largest refuge for job seekers, in light of the weakness of the private sector and the decline of productive sectors.

With the increasing number of graduates annually and the country's reliance on oil as a primary source of revenue, warnings have begun to escalate about the dangers of continuing this economic model, which consumes most of the state's resources in salaries and operating expenses, while investment and real production remain limited.   

https://baghdadtoday.news/299369-.html

Some Iraq News Posted by Tishwash at TNT 5-18-2026

TNT:

Tishwash:  Parliament is moving to avoid a "paralysis" scenario and aims to finalize the oil, gas, and telecommunications laws.

MP Hussein Ali announced on Monday a serious parliamentary determination to avoid a repeat of the scenario that disrupted parliamentary sessions in the previous session. He emphasized that the House of Representatives has successfully completed the reading and passage of 16 laws so far, focusing on strategic legislation related to oil and communications.

Ali told Al-Maalouma, "The House of Representatives is working intensively to activate its legislative role and avoid the obstacles and political gridlock that led to the disruption of sessions in the past." He explained that "Parliament is moving steadily to compensate for previous delays."

He added that "the House has so far managed to complete the reading and proceed with the legal procedures for 16 diverse laws affecting various sectors," noting that "parliamentary focus is currently on resolving contentious laws that have been stalled for years."

Ali continued, "There is a concerted parliamentary effort to pass the postponed oil and gas law, the communications and information technology law, as well as a package of other laws that are of paramount importance in regulating the country's economic resources and infrastructure."  link

Tishwash:  Calls to expedite the submission of the budget to the House of Representatives and warnings against delaying its approval

Member of Parliament Ahlam al-Kaka'i warned of the repercussions of the continued delay in approving the general budget, explaining that its absence has halted numerous projects and directly impacted public services and development plans. In a statement to the official newspaper, al-Kaka'i added that "Parliament extended its recess due to the government formation process before subsequently entering its legislative recess, which could lead to further delays in approving the budget if there is no political will to expedite its resolution."

She emphasized that "the continued delay in the budget will affect the launch of new projects and the completion of stalled projects, in addition to disrupting the financial obligations of government institutions," stressing the need to expedite the submission of the draft budget to Parliament for discussion and approval.  link

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

Tishwash:  The Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq chairs a meeting with electronic payment companies. 

The Central Bank of Iraq held an expanded meeting at its headquarters in Baghdad, chaired by the Governor, Mr. Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, and attended by directors of relevant departments within the bank, as well as the authorized managers of licensed electronic payment service providers in Iraq.

The meeting focused on discussing the most prominent challenges and observations related to the operations of these companies, and reviewing mechanisms for developing the services they provide to enhance the efficiency of the financial and banking sector and support the comprehensive digital transformation in the country.

The meeting included a comprehensive review of technical, administrative, and regulatory observations pertaining to the work of electronic payment companies. 

Participants exchanged views on the companies' future plans aimed at improving financial services, with a focus on strengthening compliance and full adherence to the regulations and instructions adopted by the Central Bank. They also discussed upgrading the infrastructure and developing the technical and regulatory systems of payment companies in line with best practices and international standards.

The discussions expanded to include the development of innovative solutions and initiatives aimed at improving the electronic payment environment in Iraq. Participants focused on enhancing the security, efficiency, and reliability of digital financial services to meet citizens' aspirations and support the government's efforts to promote financial inclusion and a smooth transition to a digital economy.

This meeting is part of the Central Bank of Iraq's ongoing efforts to regulate and develop the financial technology sector and ensure the provision of secure and innovative digital services that support financial stability in the country.

Baghdad - (Media Office)
May 17, 2026  link

Tishwash:  Al-Zaidi chairs the first meeting of the Financial Stability Board

Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi chaired the first meeting of the Financial Stability Council on Saturday and issued a series of directives.

A statement from the Prime Minister's Media Office indicated that "al-Zaidi chaired the first meeting of the Financial Stability Council, which was established under the ministerial program, and which included the Minister of Finance and the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq."

Al-Zaidi emphasized "the importance of achieving financial stability, given its developmental and economic impacts," noting "the necessity of close coordination between the Central Bank and the Ministry of Finance, and the need to make financial decisions that support stability, which will positively impact government development, service, and economic plans."  link

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

Tishwash:  Financial stability is the cornerstone of the government's launch.

In a rapid and remarkable pace, the new government, led by Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi, began outlining its executive actions from the first hours of officially assuming his duties. Only a few hours passed before the first cabinet meeting was held, and a set of directives was issued that reflected the orientations of his government program, before one of its most prominent axes was quickly translated through the establishment of the "Financial Stability Council" as a foundational step in the path of economic reform.

On Saturday, Al-Zaidi chaired the first meeting of the "Financial Stability Council," in the presence of the Minister of Finance and the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, as part of an initiative aimed at strengthening coordination between fiscal and monetary policies.

During the meeting, Al-Zaydi stressed the importance of achieving financial stability, emphasizing the need to raise the level of coordination between the Central Bank and the Ministry of Finance, and to make consistent decisions that support general stability, which will positively impact the government’s development, service and economic plans.

In the same context, the new government, on its first official working day after gaining the confidence of Parliament, began to outline its executive and political program, with a clear focus on economic reform, combating corruption, improving services, and activating digital transformation.

The Prime Minister stressed, according to a statement from his media office, that the Ministry of Oil should not be limited to selling crude oil, but should transform into an economic institution with added value through developing the oil industry and increasing production and exports.

In the energy sector, Al-Zaydi directed the Ministry of Electricity to prepare two plans, one urgent to address the current summer crisis, and another long-term plan to develop the electrical grid and infrastructure.

He also instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to prepare working papers to reactivate Iraqi relations with the Arab and international communities, in order to strengthen Iraq’s political and diplomatic presence.

In the health sector, he stressed the need to activate the health insurance law, while calling on the Ministry of Transport to proceed with the "Development Road" project to support the national economy and link Iraq to global trade chains.

The directives included obligating ministers to disclose their financial assets within a week, and not to make structural changes within ministries at the present time.

Al-Zaydi also stressed the importance of enabling the House of Representatives to perform its oversight and legislative role, and of strengthening cooperation with parliamentary committees.

In the fight against corruption, the Prime Minister called for giving this file the highest priority, with full cooperation with the Federal Integrity Commission, and working to recover smuggled funds, stressing the need to keep official institutions away from political and factional rivalries.   link

News, Rumors and Opinions Monday 5-18-2026

Majeed KSA: What Iraq has Already Achieved

5-18-2026

You must read this

Here is how the banking reform is done in Iraq.

What Iraq has already achieved.

Over the last decade, Iraq moved from an almost entirely cash-based and loosely controlled banking environment toward a more internationally supervised system.

Major progress includes:

• Electronic payment expansion
• Salary localization into bank accounts
• Stronger AML/CFT (anti-money laundering) rules
• Integration with SWIFT/global payment systems
• Restrictions on c*****t dollar transfers
• Bank audits and restructuring
• Financial inclusion growth
• ATM and bank card expansion
• Preparation for digital banking and possibly a digital dinar

The biggest turning point came after the U.S. Federal Reserve and Treasury forced Iraq to tighten dollar-transfer controls beginning around 2022–2023. That pressure effectively forced Iraq to modernize its banking oversight.

In 2025–2026, the Central Bank of Iraq launched what it openly called a “comprehensive reform project” with consulting firm Oliver Wyman.

That is one of the clearest signs that Iraq has moved from talking about reform to actually restructuring the banking sector.

The key point is this:

Iraq is no longer in the “planning only” phase.

It is now in the implementation and enforcement phase of reform. That is a major difference from most of the last decade.

Today CBI article May 17, 2026

The Central Bank of Iraq met with electronic payment companies to improve digital banking, strengthen regulations, modernize financial infrastructure, and enforce international compliance standards. The meeting shows Iraq is actively pushing toward a safer digital economy, stronger financial oversight, and broader banking reform implementation.

This article tells you:

This article suggests Iraq is now focused on:

• modernizing the payment infrastructure
• formalizing money movement
• tightening oversight
• reducing cash dependence,
• digitizing the economy and integrating into the global financial system.

That is exactly what a country in the implementation phase looks like.

So this article actually reinforces the earlier conclusion:

Iraq is no longer mainly discussing reform, it is actively restructuring parts of the banking system in real time.

Source(s):
• https://x.com/majeed66224499/status/2055656744429244470
• https://x.com/majeed66224499/status/2056112808434028707

See full post here:  https://dinarchronicles.com/2026/05/17/majeed-ksa-what-iraq-has-already-achieved/

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

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

Thom  Question: "Is there any information on the estimated price of IQD and VND?" I think IQD will be over $3.22 (likely over $4 imo), and VND will likely be a float (a very fast moving float when it goes). My opinions based and what I have researched.

Jeff   As long as the US Treasury has removed Iraq from their OFAC sanctions list then all the banks within the United States will start exchanging the dinar.  IMO when Iraq revalues the US Treasury will remove Iraq from the OFAC sanctions list at the same time.

Boot-On-The-Ground Guru Omar  On the television we have our prime minister Zaidi.  He said we're going to start the next phase.  We will see the launch of a "comprehensive economic and financial reform program" that will strengthen our national partnership and focus on improving services and fighting corruption...He said financial reforms can lead to giving the dinar more real value.  But he said only if Iraq actually executes the deeper structural monetary reform behind the scenes...The type of reforms Zaidi is talking to us about are the same one that required before any currency can strengthen. 

IQD News Update: Why the KWD Reinstated But the IQD Has Not

Edu Matrix:  5-18-2026

In this video, we explain one of the biggest misunderstandings in the IQD investment community. Many investors compare the Iraqi Dinar to what happened to Kuwait after the Gulf War, but the two situations are completely different.

The Kuwaiti Dinar was already internationally recognized and openly traded on global FOREX markets before Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1990.

After liberation, Kuwait’s banking system and currency simply returned to their previous internationally recognized value.

The Iraqi Dinar is different. The modern IQD was created after the 2003 war and has remained a heavily managed domestic currency controlled by the Central Bank of Iraq. Unlike the Kuwaiti Dinar, the IQD has never freely traded on the open international FOREX market.

In this video we discuss:

• Why Kuwait’s currency recovered

• What “reinstatement” really means

• Why the IQD is considered a closed currency

• The role of the Central Bank of Iraq

• Why there is no true global market price for the IQD

• The difference between speculation and international currency trading

This video is for educational and informational purposes only.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0oK4BkPsII