Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Evening 1-15-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

Central Banks Test New Payment Rails as Dollar Weakens and Gold Surges

Why global financial plumbing and currency volatility are converging now

Overview

• Major central banks have entered live testing of a new cross-border payment system, signaling a structural shift in global settlement infrastructure.

• The U.S. dollar has weakened while gold prices remain elevated, reflecting growing uncertainty around fiat stability.

• Together, these developments highlight accelerating changes to the global monetary order that are central to the Global Reset narrative.

Key Developments at a Glance

• Cross-border payments: Central banks moved into the user-testing phase of a BIS-led global settlement project.

• Dollar pressure: Markets reacted to political and policy uncertainty with renewed dollar softness.

• Gold strength: Gold continues to trade near record highs as investors seek monetary hedges.

• Infrastructure focus: Attention has shifted from speculation to the underlying rails of global finance.

Central Banks Advance Cross-Border Payments Testing

A coalition of leading central banks, including the U.S., Europe, and key emerging markets, has begun advanced testing of a new cross-border payment and settlement framework under the Bank for International Settlements.

This phase moves beyond theory into real-world application, focusing on:

• Faster interbank settlement

• Reduced reliance on correspondent banking

• Lower transaction costs across borders

The testing phase suggests central banks are preparing for a future where legacy systems such as SWIFT may no longer be sufficient for global trade and capital flows.

Dollar Weakness and Gold Strength Signal Trust Shift

At the same time, financial markets are responding to rising uncertainty:

• The U.S. dollar has shown renewed weakness, particularly against major and commodity-linked currencies.

• Gold demand remains strong, driven by concerns over debt levels, monetary credibility, and geopolitical risk.

This divergence reflects a broader theme: confidence is shifting away from purely fiat-based systems toward hard assets and alternative settlement mechanisms.

Why It Matters

• Payment rails shape power: Whoever controls settlement infrastructure influences trade, liquidity, and sanctions enforcement.

• Dollar dominance faces structural pressure: Infrastructure diversification reduces automatic dollar dependence.

• Gold’s role is being reaffirmed: Central banks and investors continue to treat gold as monetary insurance.

These are not isolated events — they are interlocking signals of systemic transition.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For readers holding foreign currency in anticipation of a Global Reset:

• New payment systems can reprice currency utility, not just exchange rates

• Dollar volatility creates space for alternative reserve and settlement currencies

• Gold-linked or commodity-backed systems gain relevance as trust in fiat erodes

• Currency value follows settlement demand, not political promises

In reset scenarios, currencies tied to trade, infrastructure, or hard assets tend to benefit first.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1 – Infrastructure Reset: Central banks are rebuilding global payment plumbing quietly but decisively.

• Pillar 2 – Trust Reset: Markets are signaling declining confidence in debt-heavy fiat systems through gold accumulation.

This is not short-term market noise — it is long-term monetary repositioning.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Reuters – Top central banks forge ahead with closely watched cross-border payments testing

• Financial Times – Dollar slips as gold holds near record highs amid central bank uncertainty

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Dollar Slips as Gold Holds Firm in a World Losing Monetary Certainty

Currency volatility signals deeper cracks in the global financial system
January 2026

Overview

• The U.S. dollar is weakening amid rising political and monetary uncertainty.

• Gold continues to trade near record highs, reinforcing its role as a monetary hedge.

• Currency markets are flashing stress signals as investors reassess trust in fiat systems.

• These moves reflect more than market noise — they point to a structural shift underway.

Key Developments at a Glance

• Dollar pressure: The dollar has softened against major and commodity-linked currencies.

• Gold resilience: Gold prices remain elevated despite changing rate expectations.

• Investor behavior: Capital is rotating toward perceived stores of value.

• Central bank backdrop: Questions around policy independence and debt sustainability linger.

Why the Dollar Is Under Pressure

The dollar’s recent weakness reflects compounding macro risks, not a single event:

• Rising U.S. debt and fiscal strain are weighing on long-term confidence

• Political pressure on monetary policy has unsettled markets

• Global diversification efforts are slowly reducing automatic dollar demand

As more countries explore alternative settlement systems and reserve diversification, the dollar’s dominance faces incremental but persistent erosion.

Gold’s Strength Sends a Message

Gold’s ability to hold near record highs is especially telling:

• It is outperforming confidence in fiat currencies, not just inflation expectations

• Central banks continue to accumulate gold as strategic insurance

• Investors increasingly treat gold as a neutral reserve asset, free from political control

Gold’s resilience suggests that markets are hedging against systemic risk, not just short-term volatility.

Currency Volatility Reflects Trust Repricing

Across global FX markets:

• Volatility is rising, even in traditionally stable currency pairs

• Safe-haven behavior is shifting, favoring hard assets over paper claims

• Confidence gaps between currencies are widening, based on fiscal and geopolitical exposure

This repricing of trust is a classic feature of monetary transition periods.

Why It Matters

• Currencies are confidence instruments, and confidence is fragmenting

• Dollar weakness amplifies global inflation and trade realignments

• Gold’s role is being quietly re-monetized in central bank strategy

These dynamics often precede larger structural changes rather than resolve themselves quickly.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For readers holding foreign currency with expectations tied to a Global Reset:

• Currency value depends on trust, trade, and settlement relevance

• Dollar volatility creates openings for revaluation narratives

• Hard-asset-aligned systems gain credibility faster in uncertain environments

• Resets tend to reward preparedness, not timing perfection

Periods like this historically favor those positioned ahead of monetary realignment, not after it becomes obvious.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1 – Confidence Shift: Markets are questioning long-held assumptions about fiat stability

• Pillar 2 – Reserve Rebalancing: Gold and alternative currencies are reclaiming strategic importance

This is how resets begin — not with announcements, but with market behavior.
Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Financial Times – Dollar slips as gold holds near record highs amid central bank uncertainty

• Reuters – Gold steadies near record as investors weigh policy risks and dollar weakness
  

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U.S. Aircraft Carrier Shifts From South China Sea Toward Iran Hotspot

One carrier, two flashpoints — and a rapidly tightening global chessboard
January 2026

Overview

• A U.S. Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was operating in the South China Sea before redeployment toward the Middle East.

• The move coincides with escalating tensions involving Iran and renewed unrest inside the country.

• The redeployment links Indo-Pacific deterrence with Middle East escalation risks.

• Markets, energy flows, and global trade routes face rising geopolitical stress.

Key Developments at a Glance

• Carrier movement: The USS Abraham Lincoln was observed operating near contested South China Sea waters before orders to shift theaters.

• Dual-theater pressure: The carrier’s presence overlapped with Chinese military drills near Taiwan.

• Iran flashpoint: Rising internal unrest and U.S. warnings have elevated regional risk levels.

• Force projection: The redeployment would make the Abraham Lincoln the only active U.S. carrier in the Middle East.

Why the South China Sea Still Matters

The South China Sea remains one of the most contested maritime corridors in the world:

• China claims sovereignty over most of the waterway, despite overlapping claims from neighboring nations.

• U.S. naval operations aim to signal freedom of navigation and alliance commitments.

• Recent Chinese military drills near Taiwan increased regional tension while the carrier was nearby.

The carrier’s operations underscored how Indo-Pacific deterrence remains stretched as global crises multiply.

Why Iran Is Pulling U.S. Forces West

The redeployment comes amid:

• Escalating internal unrest in Iran, described as the largest in years

• U.S. warnings and rhetoric signaling potential consequences if violence against protesters continued

• Iranian statements warning U.S. and allied bases could become targets

Shifting a carrier strike group signals credible military readiness, not merely diplomatic pressure.

Strategic Implications of the Redeployment

• The U.S. is forced to balance multiple flashpoints simultaneously

• Carrier scarcity magnifies the signal of escalation

• Any disruption in the Middle East raises immediate energy and shipping concerns

This movement reflects a world where crisis response is no longer sequential — it is simultaneous.

Why It Matters

• Energy markets react to Middle East escalation risk first

• Global trade depends on stability across both the Indo-Pacific and Persian Gulf

• Military redeployments often precede financial volatility, not follow it

Naval power shifts are rarely symbolic — they are preparatory signals.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For readers holding foreign currency in anticipation of a Global Reset:

• Geopolitical escalation accelerates demand for safe-haven assets

• Energy shocks can reprice currencies tied to oil and trade routes

• Military risk increases pressure on debt-heavy fiat systems

• Periods of instability often precede monetary realignment

Historically, currency resets emerge from geopolitical stress, not calm.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1 – Geopolitical Realignment: Military posture reflects shifting power centers

• Pillar 2 – Energy and Trade Risk: Chokepoint instability amplifies systemic vulnerability

This is not just a carrier movement — it is a signal of rising global fracture points.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Newsweek – US Aircraft Carrier in South China Sea Could Be Heading for Iran

• Reuters – U.S. boosts military posture amid rising Middle East tensions

~~~~~~~~~~

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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 Thursday Evening 1-15-26

An Economist Warns: Any Regional Crisis Will Directly Impact The Iraqi Economy

Time: 2026/01/15 Reading: 45 times  {Economic: Al-Furat News} Economic expert Abdul Rahman Al-Mashhadani confirmed today, Thursday, that the international and regional situation directly affects the Iraqi economy, warning of the repercussions of any potential crisis in the region.

Al-Mashhadani told Al-Furat News Agency that “the international situation, especially in the region, greatly affects Iraq and its economy. If war breaks out, and despite the high oil prices, Iraq will be affected by Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz, as Iraq is considered the only outlet and main artery for exporting Iraqi oil. Even if the closure does not last long, it will have a significant impact.”

Al-Mashhadani added that "the Iraqi economy will also be affected beyond oil due to the market's reliance on many basic Iranian materials, which are included in the food basket of fruits. If these are cut off, it will be difficult to replace them from other countries, which will require time and new contracts. Iraq also depends on Iranian gas, and this interdependence means that any problem in the region will be reflected 100% on the Iraqi economy, and Iraq will be the most affected."   From... Ragheed    LINK

"Energy Security In The Gulf: An Existential Threat To Iraq"

 Economy News — Baghdad   Head of the Iraq Energy Center, Dr. Furat Al-Moussawi    In the geopolitics of energy, no region is more fragile than the Arabian Gulf, and no country more vulnerable than Iraq. Producing more than 4.5 million barrels of oil per day, Iraq has no export outlet other than the Strait of Hormuz in the Arabian Gulf.

This corridor, through which more than 21 million barrels of oil pass daily, equivalent to 20% of global oil trade, turns in a moment of tension or war into an arena that threatens not only the global economy, but also the financial and service existence of Iraq.

Past experience has shown that any disruption in the Gulf raises oil prices by $10–15 per barrel within a few days. While this might seem like an opportunity to increase revenues, Iraq remains at the mercy of a complex equation: high prices are countered by the risk of a complete halt to exports if the Strait of Hormuz is closed, which would mean a collapse in revenues that constitute more than 90% of the general budget.

The most dangerous aspect is that Iraq relies on Iranian gas to operate more than 40% of its national power plants, making any military confrontation between Washington and Tehran a double threat: a financial deficit due to the cessation of exports, and a severe electricity crisis due to the halt in supplies.

This structural fragility reveals that Iraq is not merely a collateral victim of regional crises, but rather the weakest link in the global energy security equation.

While global markets may absorb price increases by diversifying supply chains, Iraq remains without alternatives: no export pipelines outside the Gulf, no ability to replace imported gas, and no electricity grid independent of foreign sources. Thus, any tension in the Strait of Hormuz becomes a direct threat to the state's financial and service-related survival.

A US strike on Iran could trigger a global energy crisis, but in Iraq it would turn into an existential crisis, halting oil exports, collapsing revenues, and causing power outages.

Whoever tampers with the Strait of Hormuz is tampering with the fate of Iraq before tampering with the fate of the global economy.  https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64597

Basra Crude Oil Prices Rise

Time: 2026/01/15 09:46:27{Economic: Al-Furat News} Prices of Basra Heavy and Medium crude oil rose on Thursday, despite the decline in global oil prices.

Basra Heavy crude prices rose $1.11, or 1.88%, to $60.18, while Basra Medium crude prices climbed 86 cents, or 1.40%, to $62.48.   https://alforatnews.iq/news/%D8%A7%D9%85-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A8%D8%B5%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D8%AA%D8%B1%D8%AA%D9%81%D8%B9

The Central Bank Reveals A Decrease In Iraq's Domestic Public Debt.

Today 15:06  The Central Bank of Iraq   revealed on Thursday that domestic public debt decreased at the end of October 2025.

In a report reviewed by Al-Maalomah News Agency, the bank stated that "Iraq's domestic public debt decreased at the end of October of last year to reach 88 trillion and 515 million dinars, a decrease of 0.32% compared to September, which stood at 90 trillion and 615 billion dinars. However, it is 6.58% higher than in 2024, when it reached 83.05 trillion dinars, and 25% higher than in 2023, when it reached 70.558 trillion dinars.

" The bank added that "the decrease resulted from a reduction in loans from government banks, from 7.01 trillion dinars to 5.6 trillion dinars."

He noted that "the debt remained unchanged, whether it was the financial debt, which amounted to 556 billion dinars, the discounted transfers at the Central Bank, which amounted to 50.486 trillion dinars, the treasury transfers at the Ministry of Finance, which amounted to 1.5 trillion dinars, the loans from financial institutions, which amounted to 14.366 trillion dinars, or the bonds, which amounted to 14.137 trillion dinars." (End of quote)  LINK

Savaya Discusses Suspicious Financial Payments In Iraq With The US Treasury

January 15, 2026   London – Al-Zaman   US envoy to Iraq Mark Savaya confirmed on Thursday that he had agreed with the US Treasury Department to conduct a comprehensive review of records of suspicious payments and financial transactions involving institutions, companies and individuals in Iraq.

“Today I met with the U.S. Treasury Department and the Office of Foreign Assets Control to discuss key challenges and reform opportunities in both state-owned and private banks, with a clear focus on strengthening financial governance, compliance, and corporate accountability,” Savaya said in a Facebook post.

He added, “We agreed to conduct a comprehensive review of suspicious payment records and financial transactions involving institutions, companies, and individuals in Iraq that are linked to smuggling, money laundering, and fraudulent financial contracts and projects that fund and enable terrorist activities.”

Savaya continued, “We also discussed the next steps regarding anticipated sanctions targeting malicious entities and networks that undermine financial integrity and state authority.”

The US envoy stated that “the relationship between Iraq and the United States has never been stronger than it is today under the leadership of President Donald Trump.”     LINK

Bob Moriarty: Hyper Inflation & The Return of the Gold Standard

Bob Moriarty: Hyper Inflation & The Return of the Gold Standard

Palisades Gold Radio:  1-15-2026

Stijn Schmitz welcomes Bob Moriarty to the show. Bob Moriarty is Author, Founder 321 Gold, and a Former Marine Fighter Pilot.

The conversation delves into complex geopolitical dynamics, focusing on the current global tensions between the West's debt-based system and the East's resource-based system.

Moriarty offers a critical perspective on recent global conflicts, suggesting that the United States and Israel are the most aggressive nations, with potentially catastrophic consequences.

Discussing Venezuela, Iran, and global tensions, Moriarty argues that these conflicts are not about oil or resources, but about maintaining Western economic dominance.

He believes the current geopolitical landscape represents a fundamental shift, with the West's debt-based system collapsing while Eastern nations like China, Russia, and Iran are becoming increasingly powerful.

 He emphasizes that these countries are not enemies of the West, but are simply defending their interests.

Moriarty is particularly critical of U.S. foreign policy, describing current leadership as potentially the worst in world history. He warns of a potential financial collapse, comparing the current economic situation to 1929, but "ten times worse."

He strongly advocates for a return to a gold or silver-backed monetary system as a solution to the impending economic crisis.

On precious metals, Moriarty is bullish, believing silver and gold are critical protection during financial chaos. He sees significant potential in these metals, noting their historical monetary importance and current industrial applications.

 He predicts a potential return to a gold or silver standard within the next decade. The discussion also touches on global conflicts, including potential tensions with Iran, the Ukraine-Russia war, and U.S. interventionist policies. Moriarty's perspective is unequivocal: the United States risks significant losses by pursuing aggressive military and economic strategies.

He argues that the world is witnessing a fundamental restructuring of global economic and political power, with the Western debt-based system facing inevitable collapse.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:01:05 - Venezuela Intervention Analysis

 00:05:54 - Attack on China Motive

00:08:42 - Trump's Warpath Netanyahu

00:10:01 - Iran Protests CIA Role

00:13:36 - Strait of Hormuz Risks

00:16:39 - Ukraine-Russia Conflict Insights

00:22:10 - Debt vs Resource Systems

00:25:47 - Precious Metals Protectio

n 00:29:11 - Fed Investigation Power Play

00:32:59 - Financial Collapse Parallels

00:37:11 - Silver Investment Thesis

 00:42:55 - Future Gold Standard Outlook

00:45:41 - 321gold.com and Wrap Up

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76IsD3H5HTE

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Afternoon 1-15-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

CLARITY Act Stalls as Crypto Industry Warns It Shields Banks, Not Innovation

Regulatory clarity promised — institutional protection delivered?

Overview

• The Digital Asset Market Structure and Clarity Act failed to advance today after a Senate Banking Committee delay.

• Crypto industry leaders, including Coinbase, argue the bill protects banks more than crypto users.

• Regulatory uncertainty continues, keeping digital assets in limbo heading into 2026.

• The delay underscores a deeper divide between Wall Street priorities and decentralized finance realities.

What Happened Today

• The Senate Banking Committee postponed its scheduled markup of the CLARITY Act rather than moving it forward.

• No committee vote occurred, and the bill did not advance to the Senate floor.

• Lawmakers cited unresolved concerns and ongoing negotiations over the bill’s structure and scope.

Despite earlier momentum, today’s delay signals that consensus has not been reached on how crypto markets should be governed.

Why the Crypto Industry Is Pushing Back

Coinbase and other digital asset firms have been increasingly vocal, warning that the CLARITY Act:

• Reinforces bank dominance over custody, settlement, and market access

• Limits innovation by favoring existing financial intermediaries

• Creates regulatory hurdles for crypto-native firms while easing compliance paths for large banks

Industry critics argue the bill’s framework repackages crypto activity into legacy banking rails, undermining decentralization rather than clarifying it.

Banks vs Crypto: The Core Tension

At the heart of the debate is who benefits from “clarity.”

• Banks gain clear jurisdictional authority and compliance pathways

• Crypto firms face higher costs, licensing burdens, and operational constraints

• Retail users risk being pushed back into permissioned, centralized systems

This has fueled claims that the CLARITY Act is less about innovation and more about institutional control of digital finance.

Why It Matters

• Regulatory delays prolong uncertainty for markets, builders, and investors

• Wall Street-first frameworks risk slowing U.S. competitiveness in digital assets

• Crypto adoption may migrate offshore to jurisdictions with clearer, more balanced rules

Instead of clarity, today’s outcome reinforces the reality that digital asset regulation remains politically contested.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For readers holding foreign currency in anticipation of a Global Reset:

• Regulatory stagnation weakens confidence in U.S.-based digital rails

• Bank-centric crypto policy favors fiat preservation, not revaluation catalysts

• Alternative settlement systems abroad may gain momentum faster

• True value shifts tend to follow open systems, not tightly controlled financial structures

In short, currency realignment favors flexibility and neutrality, not regulatory capture.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1 — Monetary Control: Governments remain focused on controlling rails, not liberating value

• Pillar 2 — Infrastructure: Innovation continues outside traditional banking frameworks

This is not just a crypto bill — it’s a signal about who will control money in the next system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Investors.com – Senate Delays CLARITY Act Markup After Industry Pushback

• Cointelegraph – Crypto Leaders Warn CLARITY Act Favors Banks Over Blockchain Innovation

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BRICS vs ASEAN in 2026 Shows Why Alignment May Backfire

When joining a bloc increases risk instead of protection

Overview

• ASEAN’s growing association with BRICS is triggering tariff exposure rather than insulation.

• Indonesia’s full BRICS membership and partnership roles for Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam increase geopolitical pressure.

• U.S. tariff threats highlight the costs of perceived alignment in a polarized global system.

• Strategic autonomy, not bloc loyalty, emerges as ASEAN’s core vulnerability in 2026.

Key Developments at a Glance

• Tariff escalation risk: Indonesia faces potential U.S. tariffs exceeding 40%, explicitly linked to BRICS alignment.

• Regional spillover: Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam are already confronting elevated tariff regimes tied to geopolitical positioning.

• Non-alignment under strain: ASEAN’s long-standing neutral posture is increasingly difficult to maintain amid great-power rivalry.

• Currency implications: Discussions around BRICS-linked settlement systems raise concerns about financial sovereignty rather than protection.

How BRICS–ASEAN Dynamics Expose Tariff Vulnerability

At the center of the BRICS vs ASEAN debate is trade exposure. The U.S. has signaled that deeper BRICS alignment may invite punitive tariffs, reframing economic cooperation as a geopolitical liability. For export-driven Southeast Asian economies, this creates an asymmetric risk:

• Limited upside from BRICS trade frameworks, which remain loosely structured

• Immediate downside from Western trade retaliation, which is swift and enforceable

This imbalance highlights how alignment without institutional safeguards can backfire quickly.

Structural Dependence and the BRICS Currency Question

ASEAN’s challenge in 2026 is less about military strength and more about structural dependence:

• Supply chains, digital standards, data sovereignty, and payment rails increasingly define power

• BRICS-linked currency or settlement systems may reduce flexibility, not enhance it

• Smaller economies risk becoming rule-takers rather than rule-makers in multipolar arrangements

The push toward alternative payment systems introduces new dependencies without clear governance protections.

Why It Matters

• Multipolarity without rules increases friction, not leverage

• ASEAN centrality weakens when bloc alignment overrides strategic neutrality

• Economic coercion replaces diplomacy in trade policy

• Tariffs become tools of signaling, not just commerce

In 2026, alignment choices are no longer symbolic — they are priced directly into trade flows.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

For readers holding foreign currencies in anticipation of a Global Reset:

• Tariff pressure erodes currency stability, especially in export-driven economies

• Bloc association does not guarantee protection or revaluation upside

• Currencies gain strength from trade access, not political alignment

• True reset conditions favor flexibility, neutrality, and diversified settlement options

The lesson is clear: currency value follows trade resilience, not bloc membership.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Trade Access Pillar: Open markets matter more than political alignment

• Sovereignty Pillar: Control over settlement, data, and standards defines future power

This is not about choosing sides — it’s about avoiding traps in a fragmented global system.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News™ Exclusive

Sources

• Watcher.Guru – BRICS vs ASEAN in 2026 Shows Why Alignment May Backfire

• Nikkei Asia – Southeast Asia walks tightrope as BRICS expansion tests neutrality

~~~~~~~~~~

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 Thursday Afternoon 1-15-26

Iraq Central Bank Monetary policy

Monetary policy in Iraq, through its underlying philosophy, relies on what are known as information-based or signal-driven rules to generate stability in the banking and financial market, in line with local and global economic developments. This approach serves as an alternative to direct intervention in the market and the potential for undesirable divisions and distortions that could negatively impact the effectiveness of financial intermediation. These signal-driven and information-driven methods are based on the Central Bank of Iraq's interest rate, also known as the policy rate .

The Concept

The set of procedures and decisions taken by the Central Bank of Iraq within the framework of achieving its intermediate operational goals, which are to maximize the purchasing power of the Iraqi dinar and to counter inflationary expectations, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the macroeconomy and reflecting this on improving the standard of living in particular.

Goals

The Central Bank of Iraq’s main objectives include achieving stability in domestic prices and working to maintain a stable financial system based on market competition. In line with the aforementioned objectives, the Central Bank works to promote sustainable development, provide job opportunities, and achieve prosperity in Iraq.

Tasks

The Tasks Of The Central Bank Of Iraq Include The Following:

• Formulating and implementing monetary policy in Iraq, including foreign exchange rate policy.

• Possession and management of all of Iraq's official foreign reserves.

• Possession of gold and management of the state's gold reserves.

• Providing advisory and financial services to the government.

• Providing liquidity services to banks.

• Issuance and management of the Iraqi currency.

• Compiling and publishing data related to the banking and financial system and data related to the economy.

• Establish, supervise, and promote effective and sound payment systems.

• Issuing licenses and permits to banks, regulating their operations, and supervising them.

• Combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

Regulations and decisions related to monetary policy operations

These regulations and instructions cover various aspects of banking and financial operations, including guidelines on liquidity management to ensure the stability of the financial system. To manage liquidity and ensure financial system stability, the Central Bank of Iraq issues specific instructions and guidelines to banks and financial institutions. These instructions include:

Determining the required reserve ratio: A specific percentage of bank deposits must be held as a cash reserve at the central bank. This helps control the amount of liquidity available to banks and limits excessive lending.

1. Open market operations: The central bank conducts purchases and sales of government bonds to increase or decrease liquidity in the market. These operations are used to control the amount of money in circulation and thus influence interest rates and inflation.

2. Interest rate management: Setting interest rates on loans and deposits affects the demand for money. A high interest rate reduces borrowing and limits liquidity, while a low interest rate increases borrowing and increases liquidity.

The Following Are The Most Important Instructions Regarding Monetary Policy:

1. Monetary Policy Instructions:

• Interest Rate Management: Regulations pertaining to the setting and review of interest rates that affect the financial system. The interest rate set by the Central Bank of Iraq is currently 5.5%. This decision was made as part of the Central Bank's policies to control inflation and support financial stability in the country. This interest rate is consistent with the Central Bank's ongoing efforts to guide monetary policy in line with domestic and international economic developments.

• Open market operations: These are instructions relating to how the central bank carries out purchases and sales of government bonds to control liquidity.

 The mechanism by which the Central Bank of Iraq conducts purchases and sales of government bonds aims to regulate liquidity in the financial system and control inflation. This mechanism includes the following:

1. Selling government bonds: The central bank sells government bonds to commercial banks and investors to absorb excess liquidity from the market. When investors buy these bonds, the funds are transferred from their accounts at the central bank to the government's account, thus reducing the amount of money in circulation.

2. Purchasing government bonds: When the economy needs increased liquidity, the central bank buys government bonds from the market. This process injects funds back into the banking system, increasing the amount of money available for circulation.

3. Interest rates: Interest rates play a crucial role in these transactions. The set interest rate influences investors' willingness to buy or sell bonds. For example, if the central bank raises interest rates, demand for bonds may increase because the yields become more attractive.

These operations help the central bank achieve its monetary objectives, such as price stability and supporting the national economy, by controlling the liquidity available in the financial system.

2- Reserves Management Regulations:

• Mandatory reserve ratio: Determining the percentage that banks must hold as a cash reserve. It is determined by the Central Bank of Iraq and is currently 18% of current deposits. This ratio means that commercial banks are obligated to hold 18% of their deposits as a cash reserve with the Central Bank, and this reserve cannot be used for lending or investment purposes.

The required reserve ratio is a monetary policy tool used by the central bank to control the amount of money in circulation and to control inflation, as increasing the required reserve ratio reduces the ability of banks to lend, which reduces the amount of money in circulation in the economy, and vice versa.

• Additional reserve measures: In some cases, the central bank may require banks to hold additional reserves as a precautionary measure during times of financial crisis or economic instability.

• Assessing the solvency and liquidity of banks: The central bank continuously monitors the solvency and liquidity of banks to ensure that they have sufficient capital to withstand potential crises.

• Emergency interventions: In cases of instability or financial crises, the central bank may intervene by providing additional facilities to banks to ensure sufficient liquidity is available to support the financial system and prevent its collapse.

These tools help to achieve financial stability, control inflation, and support economic growth in Iraq.

3. Foreign Exchange Regulations:

- Exchange Rate: Instructions relating to the Central Bank's policies for managing the exchange rate of the Iraqi dinar against foreign currencies, which include several key instructions, including :

1. Official Exchange Rate: The Central Bank sets the official exchange rate of the Iraqi dinar against foreign currencies. This rate can change based on economic and political conditions .

2. Market intervention: The central bank can intervene in the foreign exchange market to buy or sell foreign currencies with the aim of stabilizing the exchange rate. This intervention usually occurs during times of high market volatility .

3. Foreign exchange reserve management: The Central Bank works to manage its foreign exchange reserves to ensure that there are sufficient reserves to support the Iraqi dinar in economic or financial emergencies .

4. Issuing monetary policy: This includes adjusting interest rates and issuing other monetary policy tools to influence the supply and demand for the Iraqi dinar and foreign currencies .

5. Exchange market control: The central bank oversees foreign exchange operations to ensure that financial and economic institutions comply with applicable laws and regulations .

6. Promoting Transparency: The central bank seeks to enhance transparency in the foreign exchange market by publishing information and reports related to the exchange rate and policies implemented . These policies change over time based on local and international economic and political conditions .

- Exchange Operations: Rules Regulating The Buying And Selling Of Foreign Currencies By Financial Institutions.

 The regulations governing foreign exchange transactions by financial institutions encompass several key aspects to ensure transparency and market stability. These regulations include :

1. Licenses and registration: Financial institutions must obtain the necessary licenses from the central bank or the relevant regulatory authority to conduct the activity of buying and selling foreign currencies .

2. Compliance with standards: Financial institutions must comply with the standards set by the central bank or regulatory authority, including rules against money laundering and terrorist financing .

3. Oversight and inspection: Regulatory bodies conduct periodic audits and inspections to ensure that organizations comply with relevant laws and regulations. This oversight may include reviewing financial operations and internal procedures .

4. Reporting and Disclosure: Financial institutions are required to submit periodic reports to the central bank or regulatory authority, and provide the required disclosures regarding their activities and transactions in foreign currencies .

5. Limits and restrictions: Regulatory authorities may impose limits on the size of operations or on certain types of transactions to ensure market stability and protect the national economy .

6. Settlement procedures: Financial institutions must follow the specified settlement procedures to ensure that foreign exchange buying and selling transactions are executed accurately and quickly .

7. Risk management: Financial institutions must develop strategies to manage the risks associated with exchange rate volatility, including the use of hedging instruments when appropriate .

8. Customer relations: Financial institutions must provide customers with clear and transparent information regarding exchange rates, fees, and terms related to buying and selling foreign currencies . All these rules aim to ensure the market operates efficiently and fairly, and to protect the economy from potential risks associated with foreign exchange trading .

Tools

In light of the rapid and ever-changing monetary and financial developments worldwide, driven by market needs, the Central Bank of Iraq pursues a monetary policy that keeps pace with these developments. This policy aims to control excess liquidity in banks to manage the money supply and, consequently, curb inflation. The Central Bank relies on two main sets of tools to implement this monetary policy:

 Group 1: Traditional Tools

First: Policy Price

The bank adopted the new monetary policy rate since mid-2023 to be (5.5%) instead of the prevailing rate of previous years, which is based on a set of indicators that keep pace with global developments and financial risks surrounding the country.

Second: Open Market Operations

The Open Market Operations Office was established at this bank in 2023 (previously operating as a department within the Financial Operations and Debt Management Division). It undertakes several key tasks within the framework of monetary policy, including studying domestic liquidity and determining the market's need for new securities.

As part of its monetary policy work, this office studies and determines the liquidity level in the Iraqi banking sector by analyzing deposits, available cash, and credit extended, as well as the lending and borrowing interest rates used by banks. This is done on a weekly basis to gain a comprehensive picture of the monetary situation, the banks' need for securities, and their liquidity requirements to cover short-term obligations.

Furthermore, it identifies the types of securities needed by the market based on the conclusions drawn from these studies. These conclusions, in turn, inform the long-term strategies that the bank aims to implement to achieve price stability . The Central Bank issues the following instruments as part of this process:

A- Issuance of securities by the Central Bank of Iraq

These are central bank transfers and Islamic certificates of deposit, targeting the banking sector (governmental, commercial, and Islamic) as well as individuals with accounts at these banks and government institutions wishing to invest in securities. These securities are issued through auctions conducted by the bank via an approved system, and applications to purchase them are submitted according to the terms and conditions set by the bank. The primary purpose of issuing these securities is:

• Withdrawing excess liquidity from banks.

• Reducing private bank lending operations, as securities provide an alternative investment opportunity.

• Reducing the money supply by applying the two paragraphs above.

• Reducing inflation rates by directing investment towards holding balances with the central bank.

• Providing additional liquidity to the bank by reducing its obligations to banks, thus enabling the bank to reinvest it in other instruments.

• Increasing financial depth by providing securities that can be resold or liquidated at any time banks need liquidity to facilitate their financial transactions.

• Activating the interbank market for liquidity management involves using securities as a tool for sale within this market or as a guarantee of the liquidity needed by banks. The issuance of securities by the central bank is the first step in activating this market.

• The repurchase agreement and the reverse repurchase agreement ( REPO) , because these instruments are considered a starting point for activating the new monetary policy tools.

b) Issuing bonds on behalf of the Ministry of Finance

The Central Bank of Iraq, acting as the financial agent for the government, issues bonds for the Iraqi Ministry of Finance. The primary purpose of issuing these bonds is to finance the state's general budget deficit. The needs are determined according to the Iraqi budget law. The bank announces and promotes these bonds, which target the public and banks. The bank collects the proceeds from the sale of the bonds and transfers them to the account of the Iraqi Ministry of Finance for use within the specified needs of public finance. The bank also undertakes the process of monitoring the repayment of the bond's principal and interest.

c) Rediscount rate (discounting securities in favor of banks)

The office handles the discounting of securities on behalf of banks if they wish to discount the securities issued in favor of the Ministry of Finance in order to provide liquidity to the bank if it needs it.

d- Existing facilities

The need for loan-and-deposit facilities for banks arises when financial systems are underdeveloped, leading to the use of such instruments, which include:

• Overnight investment.

• The primary credit of banks, which is at a rate higher than the approved monetary policy rate by adding (2%) to the monetary policy rate, may reach (20%) of the bank's capital.

• Secondary credit, which is for a longer period and at a higher price than primary credit, becomes the policy price added to it (3%), and it may be guaranteed by securities issued by the Ministry of Finance.

• The last resort for lending, which allows banks suffering from a financial crisis under exceptional circumstances to grant a loan in accordance with the Central Bank of Iraq Law, at a rate of (3.5%) in addition to the monetary policy rate, and in accordance with guarantees determined by this bank after the approval of the Minister of Finance, provided that the period does not exceed three months, and the Central Bank may renew the period.

The existing facilities at the Central Bank of Iraq, whether for deposits or lending, are completely suspended due to the existence of securities within the open market operations, as well as the securities of the Ministry of Finance, which provide a current opportunity for banks to manage their liquidity without the need for existing facilities.

 Third: Mandatory Reserve Requirements

This is a percentage imposed on deposits in the banking sector, meaning that the Central Bank of Iraq imposes a percentage on deposits according to their type within the sector, including current and current-natured deposits, fixed deposits, savings in dinars and dollars, and the private and government sectors, which have been determined according to the percentages below:

1. Current deposits of the private sector are (22%) in Iraqi dinars and (18%) in US dollars.

2. Time deposits in the private sector for all licensed banks (13%) based on the decision of the Board of Directors of this bank No. (63) of 2024.

3. Government deposits, both current and time deposits, shall be (22%) in Iraqi dinars.

The mandatory reserve is one of the most important monetary policy tools, which works to limit the bank’s ability to grant loans by imposing the above ratios. It is used by the central bank according to the direction of monetary policy. In addition, the mandatory reserve requirements act as a guarantee tool for bank deposits (they are used to pay part of the depositors’ money in the event of a crisis and the bank’s inability to pay).

Group Two: Unconventional Tools

First: Foreign Currency Trading Platform

The Central Bank of Iraq considered the foreign currency sale platform (window) as a means to ensure and stabilize the exchange rate, which contributed significantly to maintaining the stability of the Iraqi dinar exchange rate and providing foreign currency to cover the private sector’s imports of goods and services, as well as the needs of citizens for travel and medical treatment.

The Central Bank of Iraq has established an electronic platform for selling dollars in coordination with international bodies in order to control and regulate the operations of the foreign currency sales window and ensure effective oversight of it.

An international company specializing in building it was commissioned to link banks with the Central Bank through it, with the aim of reducing fraud and terrorism financing and raising the level of performance of the banking sector, which is welcomed by all regulatory and supervisory authorities in the world as it enjoys a high degree of compliance with international requirements and knowledge of the true beneficiary.

 Second: Central Bank initiatives (quantitative easing)

Through its mandate to support development and stimulate the growth of the Iraqi economy, the Central Bank of Iraq seeks to bolster the liquidity of specialized banks with financial initiatives that enable them to provide industrial, agricultural, and housing loans, thereby supporting economic activity and creating job opportunities.

The bank also provides financial initiatives to private commercial banks to finance small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The bank has taken several steps and offered various facilitations, including the following:

1. Banking facilities through the rescheduling of bank loans to the private sector, especially those owed by small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as increasing the repayment period for existing and future loans.

2. Continuing to support real activities through the lending policy adopted by the Central Bank and in cooperation with banks operating in Iraq to drive the development process.

https://cbi.iq/page/26

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Thursday Morning 1-15-26

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

XRP Faces Jan 15 CLARITY Act Test as ETFs Signal Confidence

Regulatory clarity meets a critical technical support zone

Overview

• XRP is trading above the key $2.00 level as U.S. lawmakers prepare for a pivotal Jan. 15 vote on the CLARITY Act.

• The outcome could shape XRP’s long-term regulatory positioning and institutional adoption.

• Despite a broader crypto market pullback, XRP spot ETFs recorded $4.92 million in net inflows, signaling continued investor confidence.

Key Developments

• A U.S. Senate Committee markup session for the Digital Asset Market Structure and Clarity Act of 2025 is scheduled for 10:00 AM ET on January 15.

• The bill aims to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital commodities.

• It outlines oversight responsibilities for the CFTC, addresses wash trading, and mandates proof-of-reserves requirements.

Why the CLARITY Act Matters for Crypto

• Passage could reduce regulatory uncertainty that has constrained institutional participation.

• Clearer rules may lower compliance barriers for altcoins like XRP, improving scalability and adoption.

• Supporters argue the bill balances innovation with transparency and guardrails.

XRP ETFs Show Growing Institutional Interest

• On January 9, XRP spot ETFs added approximately 2.32 million XRP, reflecting $4.92M in net inflows.

• ETF demand suggests confidence in XRP’s regulatory outlook, even amid near-term market weakness.

• Price action continues to track institutional sentiment, not just retail speculation.

Technical Snapshot: Can $2.00 Hold?

• XRP is trading near $2.08 after pulling back from recent highs.

• Momentum indicators:

• MACD below the signal line signals short-term bearish pressure

• RSI near 43, indicating a neutral, non-oversold condition

• Upside scenario:

• Holding $2.00 could allow a move toward $2.20 resistance

• A breakout above $2.20 opens targets at $2.35 and $2.50

• Downside risk:

• A break below $2.00 may expose $1.90, then $1.80 as next supports

Why It Matters

• XRP sits at the intersection of regulation and institutional adoption.

• The Jan. 15 vote represents a policy catalyst, not just a technical one, that could influence longer-term valuation.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

• Regulatory clarity for digital assets supports alternative value rails alongside fiat currencies.

• For foreign currency holders anticipating a Global Reset, clearer crypto frameworks strengthen the case for multi-system monetary coexistence rather than reliance on a single reserve currency.

• XRP’s use case in cross-border settlement narratives keeps it relevant in broader currency realignment discussions.

Key Takeaway

• XRP’s near-term price hinges on $2.00 support, but its longer-term trajectory may be shaped by Washington, not charts.

• Regulatory clarity could prove more decisive than short-term volatility.

Sometimes the biggest price driver isn’t the market — it’s the vote.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

Sources

• CoinGape — XRP Price Outlook Ahead of Jan 15 CLARITY Act Vote

• Cointelegraph — U.S. lawmakers advance crypto market structure legislation

~~~~~~~~~~

Russia Pushes Crypto Into “Everyday Finance” With Retail Access Bill

Caps, controls, and cross-border strategy redefine Moscow’s digital asset stance

Overview

• Russia is preparing legislation to open limited cryptocurrency access to everyday investors.

• The bill would allow non-qualified retail participants to buy crypto up to 300,000 rubles (about $3,800).

• Lawmakers aim to normalize crypto as part of the financial system, rather than treating it as a special or experimental asset class.

Key Developments

• The draft bill is expected to be reviewed during the spring session of the State Duma.

• It would remove cryptocurrencies from a special regulatory regime that has historically restricted their use.

• The proposal reflects a shift toward treating digital assets as routine financial instruments with guardrails.

Retail Access — With Firm Limits

• Non-qualified investors would gain access, but only within clearly defined caps.

• Authorities stress that crypto exposure must be controlled to prevent speculation and household risk.

• The 300,000-ruble limit is designed to allow participation without destabilizing the financial system.

Cross-Border and Strategic Use

• Beyond domestic trading, the bill supports:

• Crypto-based cross-border settlements

• Token issuance in Russia for placement on foreign markets

• These measures align with Russia’s ongoing efforts to diversify away from traditional financial rails amid sanctions pressure.

Central Bank Caution Remains

• The Bank of Russia continues to warn about systemic risks from unrestricted retail crypto access.

• Prior proposals included:

• Risk-awareness testing for retail investors

• Continued bans on anonymous and privacy-focused digital assets

• The new bill reflects a compromise between innovation and strict oversight.

Why It Matters

• Russia is signaling that crypto is no longer fringe — but policy-managed infrastructure.

• By integrating digital assets into everyday finance, Moscow is building parallel financial capabilities while maintaining tight state control.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

• Expanded crypto use in Russia strengthens alternative settlement channels outside the dollar system.

• For foreign currency holders anticipating a Global Reset, this move reflects gradual system diversification rather than abrupt disruption.

• It reinforces the trend toward multiple value rails — fiat, crypto, and local currencies — coexisting during monetary realignment.

Key Takeaway

• Russia is not liberalizing crypto — it is institutionalizing it.

• Limited retail access, strict caps, and cross-border functionality point to strategic normalization, not speculation.

Crypto doesn’t go mainstream overnight — it gets regulated first.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

Sources

• Bitcoin Magazine — Russia Moves to Make Crypto ‘Everyday Finance’ as Lawmakers Prepare Retail Access Bill

• Reuters — Russia explores regulated crypto use for domestic and cross-border payments

~~~~~~~~~~

🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱

If you’ve been holding foreign currency for many years, you were not foolish.
You were not wrong to believe the global financial system would change.

What failed was not your patience — it was the information you were given.

For years, dates, rumors, and personalities replaced facts, structure, and proof. “This week” predictions created cycles of hope and disappointment that were never based on how currencies actually change.

That is not your failure.

Our mission here is different:  • No dates • No rates • No hype • No gurus

Instead, we focus on:
• Verifiable developments • Institutional evidence
• Global financial structure • Where countries actually sit in the process

Currency value changes only come after sovereignty, trade, banking, settlement systems, and fiscal coordination are in place. History and institutions confirm this sequence.

You will see silence. You will see denials. That is not delay — that is discipline.

Protect your identity. Organize your documents.   Verify everything.
Never hand your discernment to anyone who cannot show proof.

You deserve truth — not timelines.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

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

MilitiaMan and Crew: IQD News Update-CBI focus-Credit Rating-Gatekeepers Watching

MilitiaMan and Crew: IQD News Update-CBI focus-Credit Rating-Gatekeepers Watching

1-14-2026

The Crew:  Samson, PompeyPeter, Petra, Daytrader, Sunkissed, GIGI and Militia Man

Follow MM on X == https://x.com/Slashn

Be sure to listen to full video for all the news……..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBZl6l1WAXc

Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Evening 1-14-26

Basrah Crudes Rise Despite Global Decline

2026-01-14 Shafaq News– Basrah   On Wednesday, Iraq’s Basrah crude edged up with a drop in global oil prices.

Basrah Heavy crude increased by $1.17 to $59.07 per barrel, and Basrah Medium crude by $1.17 further reaching $61.62 per barrel.

Brent crude futures fell 9 cents, or 0.14%, to $65.38 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures dropped 12 cents, or 0.2%, to $61.03.   https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Basrah-crudes-rise-despite-global-decline-4-5

US Oil Prices Fall More Than $1 As Trump’s Comments Ease Iran Tension Fears

2026-01-14 Shafaq News    US oil prices fell more than $1 in early Asian trade on Thursday after US President Donald Trump said killings in Iran's crackdown on nationwide protests were subsiding, easing fears of supply disruptions and possible military action against Iran.

US West Texas Intermediate crude futures were trading at $60.78 a barrel at 2322 GMT, down $1.24, or 2%, from the previous day's close. WTI had settled more than 1% higher on Wednesday, then gave back most of those gains after Trump's remarks reduced concerns over a potential US attack on Iran and supply disruptions.

(Reuters)   Only the headline is edited by Shafaq News.  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/US-oil-prices-fall-more-than-1-as-Trump-s-comments-ease-Iran-tension-fears

Iran Orders Temporary Closure Of National Airspace

2026-01-14 Shafaq News- Tehran   Iran issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) on Wednesday ordering the temporary closure of its airspace to all flights, while allowing international flights to and from the country that have obtained prior authorization.

The notice stated that the closure would remain in effect for “slightly more than two hours,” without providing an official explanation for the decision or indicating whether the measure could be extended.

This move followed a heightened regional tensions, as several European countries, including Italy, Poland, Germany, and Spain, urged their citizens to leave Iran. 

Earlier, Reuters cited European officials on Wednesday, saying that US military intervention against Iran could occur within the next 24 hours. https://www.shafaq.com/en/Middle-East/Iran-orders-temporary-closure-of-national-airspace

The Central Organization For Standardization Announces The Implementation Of A Plan To Transition From Traditional To Electronic Oversight.

The Central Organization for Standardization and Quality Control (COSQC) revealed on Wednesday a plan to transition from traditional to digital oversight, explaining that this digital transformation will streamline procedures and enhance transparency. The organization also emphasized its commitment to building an integrated system for monitoring the operations of local companies and pre-inspection procedures.

Fayyad al-Dulaimi, head of COSQC, stated that "the organization has a plan to transition from traditional to digital (electronic) oversight, in addition to adopting participatory community oversight, particularly regarding market monitoring and all matters falling outside the organization's traditional scope of work."

Al-Dulaimi explained that "the agency seeks to build an integrated system known as the monitoring and control room, to follow up on the work of local companies and pre-inspection procedures, in order to ensure the accuracy of information and analysis and sound decision-making in monitoring goods and merchandise in terms of quantity, quality, origin, and degree of conformity or non-conformity, which provides a real vision for controlling this file, and will reflect positively on the country’s economy in the future through the accuracy of procedures and ensuring the prevention of the entry of non-conforming goods."

He pointed out that "digital transformation contributes to simplifying procedures and enhancing transparency," noting that "unifying systems reduces errors."

He explained that "any digital transformation project is based on two fundamental aspects: the first is material, represented by providing the infrastructure, and the second is training personnel on digital systems and devices in a manner that suits the nature of the central agency's work."

He affirmed that "the foundations and plans have been laid, and implementation has begun with the first step: establishing the operations room and equipping it with the devices and systems that meet the requirements of the government program."

Al-Dulaimi stated that "the main objective of digital transformation is to ensure citizen security by verifying that goods and products conform to approved specifications, thus achieving public health and safety."

He indicated that "the agency has developed plans to enhance five service areas encompassing more than 28 sub-services. We have started with two services, and the remaining three are scheduled for completion by 2026. These include selling specifications electronically, providing remote goods inspection services, electronic payment, remote patent services, and electronic revenue collection."

He stressed that “traditional oversight will gradually be transformed into electronic oversight, which will be reflected in the speed of completing transactions,” noting that “all these services will be available through the official websites of the Central Agency,” indicating that “the Agency has started with the first steps, and they will be officially announced within the next two months.”   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64594

The US Deficit Decreased By Approximately $22.8 Billion During The Third Quarter.

The US current account deficit recorded a notable decline during the third quarter of 2025, affected by the application of tariffs on imports, along with an increase in primary revenues.

The U.S. Commerce Department's Bureau of Economic Analysis reported Wednesday that the current account deficit, which reflects the movement of goods, services, and investments to and from the United States, fell by $22.8 billion, or 9.2%, in the third quarter to $226.4 billion, its lowest level since the third quarter of 2023, according to Reuters

.These figures came in below the expectations of economists surveyed by Reuters, who predicted the deficit would fall to around $238.4 billion. The report's release was delayed due to the 43-day government shutdown.

The deficit reached 2.9% of GDP, the lowest level since the first quarter of 2020, compared to 3.3% in the second quarter.

The deficit peaked at 6.3% in the third quarter of 2006. The sweeping tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump reduced import flows, helping to narrow the trade deficit.

Imports of goods declined.

Imports of goods declined by $5 billion to $815.4 billion in the third quarter, due to a decrease in consumer goods imports, while gold imports increased. Imports of services also rose by approximately $3.1 billion to reach $225 billion.

Conversely, merchandise exports fell by $1.9 billion to $548 billion, impacted by declining gold prices, despite increases in capital and consumer goods exports. Meanwhile, service exports rose by approximately $11.7 billion to reach $314.2 billion.

The merchandise trade deficit narrowed to $267.4 billion, compared to $270.4 billion in the previous quarter.

On the revenue side, core revenue increased by $16.3 billion to $395.2 billion, supported by increased returns on direct investment, while core revenue payments increased by $5.3 billion to $390 billion.

Secondary revenues also declined by $2 billion to $44.4 billion, while secondary revenue payments decreased by about $2.1 billion to $97.9 billion, as a result of a decline in general government transfers.    https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64595

Washington Allocates $700 Billion To Buy Greenland

NBC News reported that the United States might pay $700 billion to purchase Greenland if President Donald Trump succeeds in finalizing the deal.

Citing sources familiar with the planning within the Trump administration, the network indicated that "experts, scientists, and former U.S. officials have been involved in assessing the price of Greenland," noting that "acquiring the island is essential for the United States to create a strategic buffer zone in the Arctic against America's main rivals" (Russia and China).

Trump has repeatedly stated the need for Greenland to join the United States. During his first term as president, he proposed purchasing Greenland, and in March 2025, he expressed confidence in its annexation.

In a related matter, former White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller questioned Denmark's right to control the island and stated that it should become part of the United States. Later, Trump stated that Greenland's defense consists of "two teams." 

He suggested that Russia or China could "take" the island if the United States does not.
Greenland is currently a self-governing territory of Denmark. In 1951, Washington and Copenhagen signed a treaty to protect Greenland in addition to their alliance obligations under NATO.   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64591

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Wednesday Afternoon 1-14-26

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

U.S. Trade Deficit Nearly Halved — Markets Take Notice

CNBC highlights a rare contraction in America’s trade gap

Overview

• Newly released U.S. trade data shows a dramatic narrowing of the trade deficit.

• The gap fell from roughly $136 billion earlier in the year to about $29.4 billion in the most recent report.

• CNBC analysts discussed the figures live, noting the change reflects shifts in trade flows and policy enforcement.

• Based on available records, this marks the smallest reported U.S. trade deficit in nearly two decades.

Key Developments

• Imports declined sharply, while exports held firmer, tightening the overall balance.

• Trade enforcement measures and tariffs were cited as altering import behavior.

• Market observers flagged the report as an unusual data point amid long-running deficit trends.

Why It Matters

• Trade balances directly influence currency flows and capital movement.

• A smaller deficit means fewer dollars exiting the U.S. system to pay for imports.

• Sustained improvement could signal structural adjustment, not just statistical noise.

Why It Matters to Currency Holders

• Dollar leakage slowed: Reduced outflows ease downward pressure on the dollar supply.

• Trade mechanics at work: When imports fall faster than exports, currency dynamics shift — a signal closely watched by currency holders.

• What this does not mean: This is not a payout, RV trigger, or instant economic win. It is a verified accounting change, not a promise or timeline.

Key Takeaway

• Currencies reflect flows, not hype.

• This trade data shows a real, measurable shift worth monitoring — but conclusions must remain grounded in confirmed reports, not speculation.

Implications for the Global Reset

• Pillar 1: Dollar Flow Containment

• A sharply reduced U.S. trade deficit signals less dollar outflow into the global system, tightening offshore dollar liquidity.

• When fewer dollars leak abroad through imports, global dollar availability contracts, forcing trading partners and financial institutions to adjust funding, settlement, and reserve strategies.

• This supports a re-centralization of dollar power, reinforcing U.S. leverage even as de-dollarization narratives persist elsewhere.

• Pillar 2: Trade Enforcement as a Monetary Tool

• The data underscores how trade policy and enforcement now function as indirect monetary instruments.

• By reshaping import behavior, tariffs and compliance measures influence currency flows without central bank action, shifting power from purely monetary authorities toward executive and trade-policy frameworks.

• This marks a structural shift in global finance, where trade mechanics increasingly drive currency outcomes, a key feature of an emerging reset phase.

Trade balances don’t make headlines often — until they suddenly do.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

Sources

• CNBC — Segment and Commentary on U.S. Trade Deficit

• U.S. Census Bureau — Official Trade Balance Data

• Trading Economics — U.S. Balance of Trade (Historical Data)

~~~~~~~~~~

BRICS Unit Stalls as India and China Reject a Shared Currency

Internal resistance exposes limits of de-dollarization ambitions

Overview

• Momentum toward a unified BRICS settlement currency (“BRICS Unit”) is facing growing resistance.

• India and China, two of the bloc’s largest economies, have both declined to support a single common currency.

• The pushback highlights deep internal divisions and raises questions about whether BRICS can move beyond bilateral, local-currency trade arrangements.

Key Developments

• India firmly rejected the idea of sharing a currency with China, citing economic stability and policy independence.

• China continues to prioritize internationalizing the yuan, rather than backing a collective BRICS currency.

• The lack of consensus is slowing BRICS de-dollarization efforts and limiting progress on multilateral settlement systems.

India Draws a Clear Line

• At the IT-BT Round Table 2025, India’s Commerce Minister stated that a shared BRICS currency is “impossible to think of.”

• India’s External Affairs Minister has repeatedly emphasized that abandoning the dollar is not part of India’s policy.

• Officials argue the dollar remains critical for financial stability and global trade continuity, especially during periods of turbulence.

China Chooses an Independent Currency Path

• China has focused on expanding yuan usage globally through swap lines and payment infrastructure.

• Its Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) now includes hundreds of participants across more than 160 countries.

• Beijing appears to see greater strategic value in yuan internationalization than in supporting a shared BRICS instrument.

Structural Barriers Inside BRICS

• Analysts point out that BRICS lacks the foundations required for a common currency:

• No common market

• No unified trade policy

• Divergent geopolitical priorities

• Even Russia has acknowledged that talk of a single BRICS currency is premature, despite advocating reduced reliance on the dollar.

Rio Summit Signals a Pause

• The July 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio produced a 126-point declaration that made no mention of a BRICS currency or de-dollarization plan.

• Trade cooperation remains largely bilateral, relying on local currencies rather than a unified system.

• Member states continue to prioritize economic stability over symbolic monetary shifts.

Why It Matters

• The resistance underscores how difficult it is for major economies with competing interests to align on monetary policy.

• Without consensus from India and China, a BRICS-wide currency alternative to the dollar remains theoretical, not operational.

Why It Matters to Foreign Currency Holders

• Expectations of a rapid BRICS-led dollar replacement appear overstated.

• Currency realignments, if they occur, are more likely to emerge through gradual bilateral trade changes, not a sudden bloc-wide reset.

• Stability — not confrontation — continues to guide decision-making among key BRICS members.

Key Takeaway

• BRICS de-dollarization is fragmented, cautious, and internally constrained.

• The bloc is adjusting around the dollar, not uniting against it.

A currency union fails fast when national interests refuse to bend.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News

Sources

• Watcher.Guru — BRICS Unit Hits Resistance as Major Economies Say No

• Reuters — BRICS nations play down prospects of a shared currency

~~~~~~~~~~

🌱 A Message to Our Currency Holders🌱

If you’ve been holding foreign currency for many years, you were not foolish.
You were not wrong to believe the global financial system would change.

What failed was not your patience — it was the information you were given.

For years, dates, rumors, and personalities replaced facts, structure, and proof. “This week” predictions created cycles of hope and disappointment that were never based on how currencies actually change.

That is not your failure.

Our mission here is different:  • No dates • No rates • No hype • No gurus

Instead, we focus on:
• Verifiable developments • Institutional evidence
• Global financial structure • Where countries actually sit in the process

Currency value changes only come after sovereignty, trade, banking, settlement systems, and fiscal coordination are in place. History and institutions confirm this sequence.

You will see silence. You will see denials. That is not delay — that is discipline.

Protect your identity. Organize your documents.       Verify everything.
Never hand your discernment to anyone who cannot show proof.

You deserve truth — not timelines.

Seeds of Wisdom Team
Newshounds News

~~~~~~~~~~

Seeds of Wisdom Team RV Currency Facts Youtube and Rumble

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Wednesday Morning 1-14-26

Gold Rises 1% And Silver Surpasses $90 An Ounce

Money and Business     Economy News - Gold prices rose to new record highs on Wednesday, while silver jumped to an all-time high above $90 an ounce, supported by weaker-than-expected US inflation readings that boosted bets on interest rate cuts.  Gold rose 1.02% in spot trading to reach $4,634.40 an ounce.

 US gold futures for February delivery also rose 0.9% to $4,643.80.  The data showed that the US consumer price index rose 0.2% month-on-month and 2.6% year-on-year in December, driven by higher rent and food costs.

This increase came as the impact of some distortions related to the government shutdown, which had put pressure on inflation in November, eased, but it remained below analysts' expectations of a rise of 0.3% monthly and 2.7% annually.

US President Donald Trump welcomed the inflation figures, renewing his pressure on Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell to cut interest rates.

Investors and major brokerage firms, including Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, expect two interest rate cuts of 25 basis points each this year, with the first possible cut in June.

On the geopolitical front, Trump on Tuesday called on Iranians to continue the protests, saying that “help is on the way,” amid the largest wave of protests in Iran in years.

As for other precious metals, silver surged in spot trading, surpassing $90 an ounce for the first time ever. Platinum climbed 3.5% to $2,405.30, its highest level in a week, after hitting a record high of $2,478.50 on December 29. Palladium rose 1.8% to $1,873.   https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64561

Iraq Is The Largest Importer Of Iranian Goods, With A Value Of $10 Billion.

Money and Business   Economy News – Baghdad  Middle East News reported on Wednesday that Iraq tops the list of countries importing Iranian goods, with purchases amounting to about $10 billion between April 2024 and January 2025, followed by the UAE with about $6 billion, and then Turkey with $5.5 billion.

According to official data from the Iranian Customs Administration, the volume of non-oil trade between Iran and its fifteen neighboring countries reached $13.42 billion during the period from March 20 to June 21 of last year, with the exchange of about 23 million tons of goods.

In terms of exports, Iraq remained the primary destination for Iranian goods, with a value of $1.9 billion, followed by the UAE at $1.6 billion, then Turkey at $940 million, Afghanistan at $510 million, and Oman at $437 million. Imports from neighboring countries reached $6.8 billion, with the UAE topping the list of countries supplying Iran with over $3.9 billion, followed by Turkey at $1.98 billion, then Russia at $353 million, and Oman at $223 million.

According to the same data, the volume of non-oil trade between Iran and neighboring countries continued to rise, recording an increase of 21% year-on-year until March 19, 2025, reaching $74.32 billion, with exports rising to $36.01 billion compared to imports of $38.31 billion.

Despite concerns expressed by Iraq, the UAE, and Oman regarding the impact of the US tariffs, the decision has not yet included clear details on the implementation mechanism or any potential exemptions. In this context, the UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, Thani Al Zeyoudi, stated that his country is monitoring the situation to determine the extent of the decision's impact on food imports.

Turkey is also facing a state of confusion as its trade with the United States expands from $30 billion to $100 billion, but it knows how to deal with such situations without a direct clash with Washington, according to analyst Taha Aydinoglu.

In contrast, China, the largest buyer of Iranian oil, continues to protect its interests and oppose any unilateral sanctions, while European economies such as Germany and Switzerland, along with India and Uzbekistan, also appear to be exposed to the impact of this tariff, reflecting the widening commercial reach of Iran across different continents.

In recent days, the United States announced that any country that conducts trade with Iran will face a 25% tariff on its trade with the United States, a move that could include Iraq, which is among the Arab countries most closely linked to trade with Tehran.

The US decision comes at a time when Iran is witnessing its largest anti-government protests in years, within the context of a series of sanctions imposed by Washington on Tehran for years.  https://economy-news.net/content.php?id=64562

Oil Prices Jump, With Brent Rising Above $65 Per Barrel

INA-Baghdad   Oil prices rose in global markets on Tuesday, with Brent crude trading above $65 a barrel, while US crude also posted gains.   Data from the global oil market, reviewed by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), showed that Brent crude futures rose by 1.70% to reach $65.08 a barrel.  The data also indicated that West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures climbed by 2.65% to reach $60.60 a barrel.  https://ina.iq/en/economy/44793-oil-jumps-above-65-per-barrel.html

CBI Foreign Currency Reserves Decline

2026-01-14 06:03   Shafaq News– Baghdad   Iraq’s foreign currency reserves declined by the end of October 2025, according to figures released by the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) on Wednesday.

Official data showed the reserves stood at 126.857 trillion Iraqi dinars ($97.582B) as of October 31, easing from 127.601 trillion dinars ($98.155B) at the end of September.

Despite the monthly decline, the data showed an increase compared with August, when reserves totaled 123.033 trillion dinars ($94.641B).

The figures also pointed to a broader downward trajectory from the same period in 2024, when reserves stood at 130.347 trillion dinars ($100.267B), as well as from 2023, when they reached 145.257 trillion dinars ($111.736B). https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/CBI-foreign-currency-reserves-decline-8   

Dollar Rises In Baghdad, Erbil Markets

2026-01-14 03:47   Shafaq News– Baghdad/ Erbil   The US dollar rose at the opening of Wednesday trading against the Iraqi dinar in Baghdad and Erbil markets.

According to a Shafaq News correspondent, the dollar climbed at Baghdad’s Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya central exchanges to 147,500 dinars per $100, up from 146,400 dinars recorded on Tuesday.

Exchange shops in the capital also reported higher rates, with the selling price reaching 148,000 dinars per $100 and the buying price standing at 147,000 dinars.   In Erbil, the dollar followed the same upward trend, selling at 147,550 dinars per $100 and buying at 147,450 dinars.  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Dollar-rises-in-Baghdad-Erbil-markets

Precious Metals Surge To Historic Milestone

2026-01-14 Shafaq News  Gold climbed on Wednesday to again hit a record, while silver surpassed the never-before-seen $90 mark, as softer-than-expected U.S. inflation readings cemented bets on interest rate cuts amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.

Spot gold rose 1% to $4,633.40 per ounce as of 0525 GMT, after hitting a record high of $4,639.42 earlier in the session. U.S. gold futures for February delivery rose 0.8% to $4,640.90.

Spot silver jumped 4.2% to $90.59 per ounce after breaching $90 for the first time, having shot up nearly 27% already this year.

"U.S. CPI figures showed that inflation remained relatively contained at 2.6% (year-on-year), and risk assets may be hoping for a similarly benign PPI reading to keep expectations alive for further monetary policy easing," said Tim Waterer, KCM Trade's chief market analyst.

The U.S. core Consumer Price Index rose 0.2% month-on-month and 2.6% year-on-year in December, falling short of analysts' ⁠expectations of a 0.3% and 2.7% increase, respectively. U.S. core Producer Price Index data for December is due later in the day.

U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed the inflation figures, reiterating his push for the U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to cut interest rates "meaningfully."

Global central bank chiefs and top Wall Street bank CEOs lined up in support of Powell on Tuesday after news of the Trump administration's decision to investigate him drew condemnation from former Fed chiefs as well.

Analysts say worries ⁠around Fed independence and ⁠trust in U.S. assets added to safe-haven demand for the yellow metal.   Investors expect two 25-basis-point rate cuts this year, with the earliest in June.

Non-yielding assets tend to do well in a low-interest-rate environment and during geopolitical or economic uncertainty.

ANZ expects gold to trade above $5,000/oz in the first half of 2026, the bank said in a note on Wednesday.

For silver, the next big figure was the $100 mark and high two-digit percentage gains for the metal seem likely this year, said GoldSilver Central managing director Brian Lan. 

Elsewhere, spot platinum climbed 4% to $2,415.95 per ounce, a one-week high. It hit a record $2,478.50/oz on December 29.  Palladium was up 3.3% at $1,899.44 per ounce.  https://www.shafaq.com/en/Economy/Precious-metals-surge-to-historic-milestone

“Tidbits From TNT” Wednesday Morning 1-14-2025

TNT:

Tishwash:  The Ministry of Interior announces the arrest of 91 individuals manipulating the dollar exchange rate.

The Ministry of Interior announced on Tuesday the arrest of 91 people manipulating dollar prices.

Ministry spokesman Miqdad Miri told Al-Eqtisad News that "security forces were able to arrest 91 people on charges of manipulating dollar prices."

He pointed out that "the ministry was also able to arrest 147 people manipulating the prices of food and medicine," indicating that "the Ministry of Interior has contracted for 100 fixed and mobile radars to monitor external roads  link

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Tishwash:  An economist explains the budget and spending mechanism (1/12) under the caretaker government.

Economic expert Salah Nouri explained on Tuesday the legal foundations for submitting and approving the federal general budget, and the financial disbursement mechanisms adopted in the event of its non-approval, especially in light of the caretaker government situation.

Nouri pointed out in his statement to Al-Furat News Agency that “Article (11) of the Federal Financial Management Law No. (6) of 2019 stipulated that the draft federal general budget law be submitted by the Council of Ministers to the House of Representatives before the middle of October of each year.” 

He explained that “Article (13), Paragraph Three, dealt with the situation of the House of Representatives not approving the draft budget law until 12/31 of the fiscal year, as the final financial statements for the previous year are considered the basis for the financial statements for the current year, and are submitted to the House of Representatives for the purpose of approving them.” 

He added that "the current situation is that the government is a caretaker government, and therefore paragraph one of Article (13) is applied, which allows spending at a rate of 1/12 of the total actual expenditures of the previous year, after excluding non-recurring expenditures for the current and investment budgets."  link

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Tishwash:  Warnings of escalating public anger following tax and customs duty hikes

 Economic expert Ahmed Al-Tamimi warned on Monday (January 12, 2026) of the possibility of escalating public anger in Iraq due to the government's decisions to raise taxes and customs duties, coinciding with rising prices of basic commodities in the markets, which increases the pressure on the living standards of citizens, especially those with limited income.

Al-Tamimi told Baghdad Today: “Any increase in taxes or customs duties, if not accompanied by clear social protection measures, will directly affect the prices of goods and services, because the merchant and the importer will pass on the cost of the increase to the end consumer, while the Iraqi citizen is already suffering from the erosion of income as a result of inflation and the high cost of living.”

He added that “the Iraqi public is sensitive to economic decisions that affect livelihoods, and such measures could turn from an economic issue into a social and perhaps political crisis if they are not managed wisely and transparently.”

He pointed out that “raising customs duties may be financially justified to support non-oil revenues, but the current timing is not appropriate due to weak market control and the absence of local alternatives capable of meeting market needs, which leads to higher prices without a tangible improvement in services or income levels.”

Al-Tamimi stressed that “continuing this approach without societal dialogue or governmental clarification will increase public discontent, especially with citizens feeling that the economic burdens fall on them alone, in light of the absence of real reforms to combat waste and corruption and improve financial management.”

For his part, economist Ziad Al-Hashemi believes that implementing the new customs system and imposing customs duties, along with regulating remittances through a unified governance system, represents a correct and initial step in the right direction, but he stressed that the problem lies in the implementation mechanism and the state’s management of the transition process from the previous situation to the new system.

Al-Hashemi explained in a statement to “Baghdad Today” on Sunday (January 11, 2026) that “the rapid and comprehensive application of the system has led to confusion in Iraqi markets and has directly affected citizens,” noting the need for “the government to reassess the implementation mechanism, and perhaps introduce amendments to mitigate the damage caused by the speed of implementation.”

He added that "the solution lies in adopting a phased implementation mechanism, starting with focusing on specific priority goods, reviewing the customs duties imposed on them, and monitoring the repercussions of this phase before moving on to other goods, so that the process is carried out in several stages that allow for absorbing the change and reducing the damage to society, markets and traders, in addition to its impact on supply and demand."

Al-Hashemi stressed that “the gradual approach helps the government achieve its goals in controlling remittances and commercial operations and achieving non-oil revenues that support public finances, while at the same time giving traders an opportunity to rearrange their situations and the volume of goods, and sparing the consumer the shock of a sudden rise in prices in the markets.”

He concluded by saying that "this well-thought-out approach will ensure a smooth transition to the new system," expressing his hope that the government will adopt this path during the next phase to ensure market stability and protect the citizen.  link

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Mot:  But Mommie!!!!!  

 Mot:  Now Tell Me... Who Is the Most Encouraging!!! 

Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economics Updates Tuesday Evening 1-13-26

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

Trump’s $2,000 Tariff Checks in 2026: Status and Outlook

Tariff revenue promises collide with legal and practical reality

Overview

• Former President Donald Trump has renewed talk of sending $2,000 “tariff dividend” checks to Americans funded by tariff revenue.

• The timing is uncertain: administration statements now target “toward the end of 2026.”

• Implementation hinges on legislation from Congress and the outcome of a critical Supreme Court decision on the legality of the tariffs themselves.

Latest Signals

• Trump appeared to momentarily forget his own promise in a recent interview, later reaffirming plans for checks by end of 2026.

• The White House has not released a detailed, concrete roadmap for the program.

• Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that tariff rebates would require new legislation, adding uncertainty to execution.

Constraints and Challenges

• The tariff revenue Trump cites has been widely questioned; available funds are far short of early estimates required to support $2,000 payments at scale.

• Congressional approval is essential — executive action alone won’t deliver the checks.

Why It Matters

If implemented, these checks could stimulate consumer spending and redistribute tariff-generated revenue — a politically powerful but economically debated policy.
Failure to secure legal footing for the underlying tariffs directly jeopardizes the revenue base imagined for these checks.

Tariff dreams meet the hard wall of legal and legislative reality.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News

Sources

• People — Trump appears unsure about $2,000 tariff checks but suggests late-2026 payout

• Forbes — Treasury says $2,000 tariff checks need congressional approval
  

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Supreme Court and Tariffs: Ruling Pending, Stakes Very High

Justices weigh executive power, congressional authority, and economic fallout

Overview

• The U.S. Supreme Court is expected soon to rule on whether broad tariffs imposed by Trump under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) were lawful.

• Lower courts previously held that the tariffs exceeded presidential authority and were illegal.

Trump’s Response

• Trump warned that a ruling against tariff legality would leave the U.S. “screwed,” potentially requiring hundreds of billions (or even trillions) in refunds to companies and trading partners.

• The president described the fallout as a “complete mess.”

Treasury’s Comment

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says that if the Supreme Court strikes down the tariffs, the Treasury has sufficient funds to issue refunds, though the process could take weeks to a year.

Judicial Timing

The Supreme Court has not yet released a decision on the tariffs, leaving markets and policymakers in suspense.

Why It Matters

A ruling against the tariffs would be a significant judicial check on executive economic power, reaffirming Congressional authority over trade policy.
Substantial refunds could reshape Treasury finances and alter fiscal forecasts.
The outcome directly affects the viability of the $2,000 tariff check idea since those payments are premised on tariff revenue.

When the judiciary weighs in, both trade policy and fiscal strategy are on the line.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News

Sources

• Reuters — U.S. tariffs at risk of refunds exceeding $133.5 B if Supreme Court rules against legality

• AFP via Yahoo Finance — Trump says U.S. could be ‘screwed’ if Supreme Court strikes tariffs down

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Economic and Policy Implications

Three potential pathways shaping the U.S. fiscal landscape

Scenario A: Tariffs Upheld

• Tariffs remain a significant revenue source.

• The Trump administration could attempt to formalize $2,000 tariff checks via legislation.

• Confidence in executive economic policy might strengthen, though legal debate persists.

Scenario B: Tariffs Overturned

• The Supreme Court invalidates the tariff authority under IEEPA.

• The Treasury may refund hundreds of billions, dampening revenue projections.

• The $2,000 check plan loses much of its funding foundation, likely killing or reshaping it entirely.

Scenario C: Mixed Ruling

• The Court limits certain tariffs but allows others.

• Revenue streams may shrink but not vanish, prompting partial redistribution strategies or alternative tax incentives.

The legal fight over tariffs is not just about trade — it’s about who controls fiscal policy and how the government finances major programs.

Seeds of Wisdom Team

Newshounds News

Source

• The Independent — Tariff rebate checks hinge on Supreme Court ruling and revenue outlook
  https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-tariff-rebate-checks-2026-b2886295.html

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Iraq Economic News and Points To Ponder Tuesday Evening 1-13-26

The Ministry Of Interior Is Pursuing Dollar Speculators

First  2026/01/14    Baghdad: Sorour Al-Ali  The Ministry of Interior intensified its efforts to protect economic security and pursue those manipulating the dollar exchange rate, taking action against (91) accused persons, in parallel with strengthening traffic control and developing roads, which contributed to reducing accidents by (33%) and organizing data for more than (12) million cars through a modern national electronic database.

The Ministry's spokesman, Brigadier General Miqdad Miri, said in a joint press conference held yesterday, Tuesday, with the Director General of the Traffic Directorate, Lieutenant General Dr. Uday Samir: that the legal procedures to prosecute those manipulating the price of the dollar included (91) defendants in various governorates, in addition to monitoring (104) activities related to imported food items to ensure consumer protection and market control.

On the traffic front, the Ministry confirmed that the efforts of the General Directorate of Traffic contributed to a 33% decrease in accidents during 2025 compared to 2024, along with a reduction in traffic fatalities through monitoring common violations, most notably using a mobile phone while driving and inattentiveness. The measures included regulating traffic on internal and external roads through 473 traffic centers and 1,354 field vehicles, addressing accident black spots, and designating safer lanes.

As part of the digital transformation, information on more than (12) million vehicles was registered and standardized in the national database and linked to the national system, in addition to activating electronic booking and issuing license plates through (27) traffic sites, which contributed to improving discipline and facilitating procedures.

For The Citizens.

The Director General of Traffic, Lieutenant General Uday Samir, confirmed that all these steps aim to enhance economic and traffic security, raise awareness of the laws, and ensure the safety of citizens on the roads, while continuing to follow up on violators firmly.    https://alsabaah.iq/126442-.html

Experts: The Rise In The Parallel Market Exchange Rate For The Dollar Is Temporary.

Economic  2026/01/07     Baghdad: Hussein Thagab and Anwar Ayed  The parallel exchange market in Iraq witnessed a significant increase in the dollar exchange rate against the dinar in recent days, reaching around 149,000 dinars per 100 dollars, which had a "slight" impact on the prices of various goods and materials.

Despite the rise in “parallel exchange rates”, specialists confirm that these surges are “temporary” and do not pose any economic concerns at all, especially with the precautionary measures taken by the “monetary authority” to absorb the severity of the rise. 

The Prime Minister’s financial advisor, Dr. Mazhar Muhammad Saleh, had previously described the fluctuation in the exchange rate as “temporary” and not reflecting a structural imbalance, especially since it had practically become detached from the level of income and consumption.

Structural Factors

Economic and financial expert, Dr. Nabil Al-Abadi, believes that this phenomenon is not a coincidence or the result of a single factor, but rather the result of a complex interaction between a number of structural and circumstantial factors, internal and external, which can be analyzed into three reasons: internal structural and institutional factors, market behaviors and speculation, and external restrictions and influences.

Al-Abadi explained in an interview with Al-Sabah that, with regard to internal structural and institutional factors, the Iraqi economy is a mono-type economy, as oil revenues constitute the main source of hard currency, noting that this framework makes the balance of payments and the exchange rate highly vulnerable to the fluctuations of global oil markets. 

Single Economy

Al-Abadi added that, on the monetary front, policies aimed at de-dollarization, which are essential for long-term monetary sovereignty, are being implemented rapidly. However, this implementation has been accompanied by stricter controls on dollar sales and remittance channels, leading to a reduction in supply through semi-official channels and pushing a significant portion of demand towards the parallel market.

Furthermore, the weakness of the private productive sector, whether industrial or agricultural, means the absence of an alternative domestic source of foreign currency beyond oil revenues, depriving the economy of a crucial lever for exchange rate stability.

 In addition, recent developments in the customs system, particularly the requirement for prior documentation under the ASYCUDA system to obtain dollars at the official rate, have disrupted normal trade flows. He explained that this complexity and delay have driven a number of traders, especially medium-sized ones, to resort to the parallel market to finance their urgent transactions, thus increasing actual demand there.

Market And Speculation

Al-Abadi added that, regarding market behavior and speculation, in the absence of attractive and effective regulatory investment channels, a portion of local liquidity tends to be used for exchange rate speculation as a means of achieving quick profits. He explained that this speculation is often fueled by information noise and rumors, which amplifies short-term volatility. Informal practices have also been observed within the parallel market itself, such as price discrimination between different denominations of the same US dollar, indicating distortions in the market's operational mechanisms.

Regarding the third factor, “external restrictions and influences,” the financial and economic expert said that currency transfers through official Iraqi banking channels are facing increasing difficulties, especially when it comes to neighboring countries subject to international sanctions regimes.

He noted that this reality pushes the commercial sector’s need to transfer through these channels to the parallel market, creating additional structural demand. Moreover, the impact of the general regional and international geopolitical climate cannot be ignored, as any tensions lead to an increase in demand for hard currencies as a safe haven, which is reflected in the markets of fragile countries.

The impact of rumors

Al-Abadi added that in response to this analysis, official bodies are presenting a different narrative, focusing on the transient nature of this rise, as government officials describe it as “emergency and temporary,” and a result of rumors that can be contained, while emphasizing the stability of the official price at 1320 dinars to the dollar as a basic anchor. It is also believed that the reform measures in customs and the banking sector will soon begin to show their positive results.

He stressed that from a professional point of view, the official view, despite the necessary reassurance it provides, deals with the apparent symptoms more than it addresses the root causes, emphasizing that circumstantial factors such as new procedures and rumors play a stimulating role, but the roots of the crisis lie in that dangerous mix of a rentier, mono-economic economic structure, chronic weakness in domestic production, and the complexities of the geopolitical environment.

Repeated Cycles

He stated that without addressing this triad, the Iraqi economy and its currency exchange rate will remain vulnerable to repeated cycles of instability, with crises appearing intermittently and then temporarily disappearing before returning in other forms. He explained that the solution to the exchange rate dilemma does not lie in limited technical intervention to balance the parallel market or simply blaming speculators, despite the importance of these short-term measures.

The spokesperson stressed that a real and sustainable solution requires a comprehensive economic policy that aims to diversify sources of national income, stimulate the productive private sector through a supportive investment and legislative environment, and restructure the financial sector to be more efficient and inclusive.

 He pointed out that these structural reforms are the only way to create an economy that is less dependent on the outside and more resistant to shocks, which in turn will reflect on the strength and stability of the national currency in the medium and long term.

Official Price Remains Stable

For his part, Haider Ghazi, the media officer of the Central Bank of Iraq, confirmed that there has been no change in the exchange rate of the dollar against the dinar, and it remains fixed at 1,320 dinars per dollar, explaining that what is being circulated as an exchange rate is only the demand of the unofficial market for dollars outside the system of banks licensed to work in foreign transfers through correspondent banks.

In an interview with Al-Sabah, Ghazi attributed the main reason for the rise in the parallel market to the customs duty due to demand outside the banking system, noting that the application of the prior customs duty for transfer purposes may have put significant pressure on those seeking cash dollars, and was behind the rise in demand for the dollar against the dinar in local markets.

He explained that traders are required to bring the customs declaration (customs statement) from the ASYCUDA system before the bank transfer is made to them, adding that on many occasions the Central Bank of Iraq stated that the ways to obtain dollars are through: First, external transfers through banks in a systematic and documented manner with all parties, and second, through the traveler's dollar after depositing an amount in Iraqi dinars with companies of categories A and B, and it is received through outlets inside Iraqi airports, as the bank set the traveler's share per month at $3,000.

Supply And Demand 

In addition, a number of traders reported that the rise in the dollar price led to fluctuations in the price of goods, especially imported ones. While they indicated that some commercial activities witnessed a temporary slowdown while awaiting the stabilization of the exchange rate, money exchange shop owners explained that the demand for the dollar had increased during the past few days, compared to a relative decline in supply, which contributed to the rise in the price in the parallel market.

Iraq’s economy is mainly dependent on oil revenues, which represent the largest share of the general budget resources. The local market also depends largely on imports to secure basic goods, making exchange rates an influential factor in the cost of imports and the prices of materials in the market.

Government Procedures 

On a related note, economist Mustafa Faraj believes that fluctuations in the dollar exchange rate directly impact the local market, given the nature of the Iraqi economy. He stressed the importance of taking regulatory measures when the exchange rate rises, including controlling the market and regulating trade, as well as ensuring the regular distribution of the food basket to reduce the impact of price changes in basic commodities.

Faraj added that oil prices and geopolitical factors in the region play a role in influencing economic performance, noting that the general budget was built on specific oil price estimates, and with any change in these prices, challenges arise in managing spending.

He suggested that the recent rise in the dollar's price was temporary, linked to the implementation of new mechanisms for regulating trade at the beginning of the year.

Trade Finance Mechanisms

For his part, Professor of International Economics, Nawar Al-Saadi, said that the recent rise in the price of the dollar in the parallel market reflects imbalances in the mechanisms for financing foreign trade and managing the demand for foreign currency, more than it is an indication of weakness in the country’s dollar resources.

Al-Saadi explained that part of the demand for the dollar is related to trade outside official banking channels, in addition to the impact of speculation and psychological factors in the market, stressing that the continued gap between the official price and the parallel market price limits the ability of monetary policies to achieve stability.

Meanwhile, economist Ahmed Eid believes that the rise in the dollar's price came as a result of the convergence of several factors at the same time, including increased commercial demand at the beginning of the year, in addition to psychological and hedging factors among some market participants.

Eid added that these developments do not currently indicate a structural monetary crisis, unless the pressures continue for a longer period or are accompanied by broader economic changes.

Given these circumstances, local market participants are awaiting government measures to control exchange rate activity, amid expectations that the dollar's price trajectory in the coming period will be determined by the balance of supply and demand and trade financing mechanisms. https://alsabaah.iq/126063-.html