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My FX Buddies

Tish Washington

News and updates on the Iraqi Dinar RV and Iraq Politics

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  • Yesterday · 33 min

    Iraq Wants $2.5 BILLION in Dollars - Can It Close the Exchange Rate Gap?

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Iraq is looking to dramatically increase the amount of US cash dollars My FX Buddies Blog entering the country as Baghdad tries to narrow the gap between the official exchange rate and the parallel market. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi says the government is working to increase dollar shipments from roughly $500 million per month toward $1 billion — while also seeking shipments worth as much as $2.5 billion. The announcement comes after Iraq raised its official cash selling rate from 1,320 to 1,520 dinars per US dollar, while the parallel market rate moved above 170,000 dinars per $100. So could a much larger supply of physical US dollars actually bring the parallel market rate closer to the official rate? In this video, we break down Iraq's dollar shipment strategy, the $500 million monthly deliveries, the proposed $1 billion target, the potential $2.5 billion shipments, US concerns over cash-dollar flows, and what all of this could mean for Iraq's exchange-rate gap. We'll also look at why the US Federal Reserve has reportedly been cautious about supplying large quantities of physical dollars to Iraq and why Washington's concerns over illicit financial flows and Iran-aligned armed groups remain part of the equation. For those following the Iraqi dinar, the key question is not simply whether Iraq can obtain more dollars — it's whether increased dollar liquidity can actually narrow the gap between the official and parallel-market rates. 🇮🇶 Follow Iraq's Story for continuing coverage of the Iraqi dinar, Central Bank of Iraq developments, exchange rates, banking reform, oil revenues, dollar liquidity, and Iraq's economic transformation. 👍 If you found this update useful, please LIKE the video, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE it with others following Iraq's currency and economy. Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • Wednesday · 38 min

    IRAQI DINAR: 2ND WORST-PERFORMING ARAB CURRENCY - OR IS IT?

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Is the Iraqi dinar really the 2nd worst-performing Arab currency? My FX Buddies blog A new report citing data attributed to Bloomberg says the Iraqi dinar has fallen 14.2% against the U.S. dollar since the beginning of 2026, placing it behind the Libyan dinar among the Arab currencies cited. But there's an important distinction. A currency being one of the worst-performing currencies does NOT mean it has one of the lowest nominal values. And Iraq's currency situation has become especially important following the October 7 exchange-rate adjustment. The Central Bank of Iraq announced a new exchange-rate structure of: 💵 1,500 IQD per $1 — dollar purchases from the Ministry of Finance 💵 1,510 IQD per $1 — sales to banks 💵 1,520 IQD per $1 — cash sales to the public. البنك المركزي Reuters reported that the change represented roughly a 14.5% devaluation from the previous official rate, while noting that the move gives the government more dinars for each dollar of oil revenue but raises import costs and puts pressure on household purchasing power. Reuters Meanwhile, the CBI says its foreign reserves remain sufficient to meet legitimate foreign-exchange needs, including trade financing, international card settlements and traveler cash requirements. البنك المركزي So the bigger question isn't simply: “Is the dinar falling?” It's: Why is it falling, how long could the pressure last, and what happens if the gap between the official and parallel markets grows? In this video we'll look at: 🇮🇶 The 14.2% figure 💵 The new 1,520 exchange rate 🛢️ Iraq's dependence on oil revenues 🏦 The Central Bank and foreign reserves 📈 The parallel-market dollar 🛒 Import prices and purchasing power 💰 Government spending and the budget 🌎 Iraq's dependence on foreign currency 📊 What could determine the dinar's next move And most importantly: Is this an exceptional response to a difficult economic situation—or a sign that Iraq needs deeper financial and structural reforms? Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • Monday · 22 min

    IRAQ'S BANKING SHIFT: New CBI System + U.S. Restrictions Lifted

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! The Central Bank of Iraq introduces a new electronic system for replacing damaged currency. https://www.myfxbuddies.com/2026/10/the-central-bank-of-iraq-introduces-new.html The Central Bank of Iraq announced on Sunday the introduction of a new electronic system for replacing damaged currency, as part of its efforts to simplify procedures and make it easier for citizens to access this service more quickly and efficiently. The bank explained in an official statement that the system allows citizens to submit requests to replace damaged currency electronically via the “Aur” platform, by entering and confirming the required data, and the competent authorities in the Central Bank of Iraq will complete the necessary procedures to complete the replacement process. The statement affirmed that the introduction of the system comes within the Central Bank of Iraq’s directions towards digital transformation and the development of services provided to citizens, which contributes to simplifying procedures, reducing time and effort, and raising the efficiency of banking services provided to the public. The statement noted that citizens wishing to benefit from the service can submit their applications through the "Our" electronic platform via the link: The bank also made it possible to view the details of the "Instructions for Replacing Damaged Currency" through its official website via the following link: Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • October 17 · 33 min

    THE U.S. IS TALKING UP IRAQ -Investment, Energy & WTO Reform

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! This message is coming from Washington—not Baghdad. My FX Buddies Blog The U.S. State Department says the Iraqi market offers promising trade and investment opportunities for American companies and exporters. According to the statement reported by Iraq Observer, Washington sees opportunities particularly in government contracts and the energy sector, while also emphasizing that Iraq needs to improve its business environment, address regulatory challenges and continue reforms supporting its path toward World Trade Organization membership. Observer Iraq That distinction matters. This isn't simply an Iraqi government announcement saying, “Come invest in Iraq.” The United States is telling American businesses that Iraq represents a potentially promising market. At the same time, the U.S. is pointing to regulatory and business-environment reforms as important conditions for deeper economic integration. Previous U.S. investment-climate reporting has also highlighted regulatory and bureaucratic obstacles facing foreign investors in Iraq. U.S. Department of State And there's another important piece of the story: U.S.-Iraq trade was approximately $10.4 billion in 2025, according to the U.S. Trade Representative, down 13.5% from 2024. U.S. goods trade was about $7.9 billion, while services trade was approximately $2.4 billion. United States Trade Representative So why is Washington emphasizing Iraq's investment potential now? We'll look at: 🇺🇸 What the U.S. State Department actually said 🇮🇶 Why Iraq is being described as a promising market 🏗️ Government contracts and infrastructure 🛢️ The energy sector 🏦 The business and regulatory environment 🌎 Iraq's path toward WTO membership 💵 Current U.S.-Iraq trade 📈 What greater American investment could mean for Iraq's economy And most importantly: we'll separate what Washington is actually saying from what Iraq may hope happens next. Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • October 15 · 34 min

    IS $3 BILLION THE NEW CARROT? Iraq Is Still Waiting for the Dollars

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Where are the $3 billion Iraq was expecting? https://www.myfxbuddies.com/2026/10/is-3-billion-new-carrot-iraq-is-still.html A new report from Al-Mada has put another major question on Iraq's dollar market. Parliamentary Finance Committee member Jamal Kojar says the Iraqi government was expecting $3 billion in Iraqi funds held in the United States to be released in one lump sum. But Kojar says he cannot confirm whether the money has arrived yet. He believes the delay may be contributing to the rise in the parallel-market dollar rate. He also says that government intervention and additional dollar availability could help bring the parallel rate toward approximately 155,000–156,000 dinars per $100. جريدة المدى Importantly, Kojar also clarified that these are Iraqi funds—not U.S. government money being sent to finance Iraq's budget. He said the expected funds are intended to support the exchange rate rather than the budget itself. جريدة المدى And this comes after Iraq's major exchange-rate change earlier this month. The new structure sets the Central Bank's purchase rate at 1,500 IQD per dollar, the bank rate at 1,510, and the public/end-user rate at 1,520. So the big questions are: 💵 Where are the $3 billion? 💵 Have the funds actually arrived? 💵 Can additional dollar liquidity calm the parallel market? 💵 Will the official and parallel rates move closer together? 💵 And what other measures could Iraq take next? We'll also look at the broader financial and economic developments surrounding Iraq's currency and 2027 budget. As always, we'll separate what has actually been confirmed from what is still being reported, expected, or speculated. Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar

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  • October 13 · 33 min

    Iraq's Wealth & Washington - Is it Financial Plunder?

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! A major accusation is coming from Baghdad. My FX Buddies Blog link Zuhair al-Jalabi, a member of Iraq's Coordination Framework, says the United States continues to exert significant influence over Iraq's political, economic and security decisions. According to the statement reported by Al-Maalomah, al-Jalabi argues that U.S. influence has expanded beyond politics and security into Iraq's financial system and economic affairs. He further accused the Trump administration of seeking greater control over Iraq's funds, resources and vital economic sectors. Those are al-Jalabi's allegations—but there is another part of this story that is independently documented. Reuters reported in September that Iraq's oil revenues continue to flow through the dollar-based financial system, with Iraqi oil revenue held through a Central Bank of Iraq account at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Reuters also reported that this arrangement gives Washington significant economic leverage, while Iraqi officials say it provides financial stability, protects oil revenues and facilitates access to dollars for international trade. So the bigger question is: How much influence does Washington actually have over Iraq's financial system—and where does Iraqi sovereignty begin and U.S. financial leverage end? In this episode, we'll break down al-Jalabi's accusations, the Federal Reserve connection, Iraq's oil revenues, dollar access, and the changing relationship between Baghdad and Washington. Important: This video distinguishes between statements and accusations made by Iraqi political figures and independently reported facts. Following Iraq's Story — Don't Give Up. 💰🔥 I covered some other interesting articles Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • October 12 · 22 min

    DID THE CBI REALLY FREEZE IRAQ’S PARALLEL DOLLAR MARKET?

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! I searched specifically for the announcement shared with me, including Arabic-language searches for variations of: https://www.myfxbuddies.com/2026/10/did-iraqi-central-bank-really-announce.html - “Central Bank of Iraq” - “suspending publication of exchange rates” - “parallel market” - “freezing the parallel market” - “suspending publication of dollar rates” I could not find a current official CBI announcement using that language. What makes this particularly interesting is that the CBI has previously taken a very strong position against publishing speculative parallel-market rates from August of 2023 So I will keep searching and update you tomorrow. I covered some other interesting articles Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • October 11 · 33 min

    IRAQ WANTS THE DINAR USED EVERYWHERE

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! A new Iraqi government policy is putting the Iraqi dinar back at the center of domestic commerce. Mazhar Muhammad Saleh, an adviser to Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, says there is a government direction to adopt the Iraqi dinar for transactions within Iraq, in accordance with the country's existing legal framework. The announcement comes only days after Iraq implemented a new exchange-rate structure. Beginning October 7, 2026, the Central Bank of Iraq set: 💵 1,500 IQD per USD — dollar purchase price from the Ministry of Finance 🏦 1,510 IQD per USD — dollar sale price to banks 🇮🇶 1,520 IQD per USD — cash dollar sale price to the public The Central Bank says the new rates were adopted in response to current economic and financial conditions and following a Council of Ministers recommendation. It also says foreign reserves remain sufficient to meet legitimate foreign-currency needs. Now the government is emphasizing the use of the dinar for domestic transactions, along with stronger market oversight, consumer protection, anti-monopoly measures and support for local production. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has also defended the exchange-rate adjustment before Parliament, saying the government faced difficult choices involving salary payments, borrowing and the country's already-large debt burden. He said public debt had exceeded 208 trillion dinars when he took office and that the government needed roughly 10 trillion dinars every month to meet its obligations. So what does this new push for dinar-based transactions actually mean? Does it signal a broader move toward reducing reliance on dollars inside Iraq? Could it strengthen demand for the Iraqi dinar? And how does it fit into Iraq's broader banking, exchange-rate and economic reforms? We're breaking down the facts—and what to watch next. Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • October 9 · 35 min

    1,520 IQD IS NOW OFFICIAL Iraq Has Another Big Move Coming

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Iraq has officially entered a new exchange-rate era. My FX Buddies Blog Beginning October 7, 2026, the Central Bank of Iraq adopted a new exchange-rate structure: • 1,500 IQD per USD — dollar purchase price from the Ministry of Finance • 1,510 IQD per USD — dollar sale price to banks • 1,520 IQD per USD — cash dollar sale price to the public The Central Bank says the change was made because of current economic and financial conditions and following a recommendation from the Council of Ministers. It also says Iraq's foreign reserves remain sufficient to meet legitimate foreign-currency demands. But now another question is emerging. A new report from Al-Mada says informed sources believe Baghdad may be preparing for a possible replacement of the Iraqi currency and removal of zeros, potentially within the first quarter of 2027. The report claims the timing could be connected to efforts to bring large amounts of money outside the formal financial system back into circulation. Important: The reported currency-replacement timetable is not the same thing as an official announcement of implementation. The Central Bank previously said that any future project involving currency restructuring or removing zeros would require multiple legal, regulatory and technical stages and would be officially announced if approved. So in this video, we're breaking down: 🇮🇶 The new 1,520 exchange-rate structure 💵 Why Baghdad changed the rate 📊 The reported 20 trillion dinar budget benefit 📉 The pressure from the 2027 budget deficit 💴 The reported currency-replacement plan 🔢 What “removing zeros” actually means 🏦 Why bringing cash into the banking system matters 💰 The reported claim involving large amounts of undeclared wealth 📅 Why early 2027 is being discussed ⚠️ What has—and has NOT—been officially confirmed The key question: Did Iraq simply change its exchange rate—or is this the first step in a much larger currency transformation? Stay with us as we follow the facts. Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 #Iraq #IraqiDinar #IQD #IraqEconomy #ExchangeRate 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication.

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  • October 7 · 13 min

    Iraq's Central Bank says it's official! 1500 dinars to $1

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! The dollar is rising wildly in Iraqi stock markets. My FX Buddies Blog The government raised the exchange rate of the dollar against the dinar. The exchange rate of the dollar against the dinar has skyrocketed. The government said the decision came after an emergency presentation from the finance minister and the central bank governor. The exchange rate in Baghdad is 185, Erbil 180, and Sulaymaniyah 170. The exchange rate of the US dollar against the Iraqi dinar has risen dramatically and at varying rates in Iraqi provincial exchanges, exceeding 180,000 dinars per 100 dollars in Baghdad, 180,000 dinars in Erbil, and 170,000 dinars in Sulaymaniyah, following the cabinet's decision to set the exchange rate at 1,500 dinars per dollar. A statement signed by the Secretary-General of the Council of Ministers, Hamid Al-Ghazi, was issued based on what was presented by the Minister of Finance and the Governor of the Central Bank during the Council of Ministers meeting. The Cabinet, in its regular session held yesterday, Tuesday, decided to amend the exchange rate of the dollar to 1500 dinars per dollar, which is the official purchase price by the Ministry of Finance. The decision set the selling price of one dollar, and its sale to the end beneficiary, at 1520 dinars per dollar. One of the biggest questions for Iraqi dinar watchers is the exchange rate. https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • October 6 · 36 min

    1500 DINARS PER $1? IRAQ'S 2027 BUDGET COULD CHANGE THE RATE

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! A major exchange-rate figure has appeared in Iraq's 2027 federal budget draft: 150,000 Iraqi dinars per $100. https://www.myfxbuddies.com/2026/10/1500-dinars-per-1-iraqs-2027-budget.html According to Iraqi MP Dilan Ghafoor, the draft budget uses this exchange-rate figure and projects that the adjustment could add approximately 20 trillion dinars to government revenues, bringing the estimated budget to around 218 trillion dinars. But there is an important catch: This is NOT yet a final approved exchange rate. Ghafoor said the Ministry of Finance has studied the proposal, but approval by the Council of Ministers and Parliament is still required. The draft also reportedly uses an oil price assumption of $58 per barrel. So what would 150,000 dinars per $100 actually mean? In this video, we're breaking down: 🇮🇶 The proposed 150,000 IQD exchange rate 💵 What 150,000 per $100 means in dollars-per-dinar terms 📊 The difference between the current official rate and the proposal 💰 Why the government says the change could increase dinar revenues 📋 Iraq's 218 trillion dinar draft budget 🛢️ The $58 oil-price assumption 🏦 What the Central Bank's role could be 📈 What could happen to the parallel market 👨‍👩‍👧 What this could mean for purchasing power 🇮🇶 The unresolved Kurdistan Region budget issues 🔎 And what has to happen before this becomes official THE BIG QUESTION: Will Iraq actually move to 150,000 dinars per $100—or will the figure change before the 2027 budget becomes law? This is a developing budget story, so the final exchange-rate policy should be judged by the approved budget and official Central Bank/government announcements, not the draft alone. Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • October 5 · 34 min

    IRAQ'S DINAR WAITING ON THE BUDGET - What Happens Next?

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Is the Iraqi dinar stuck in a narrow trading range? https://www.myfxbuddies.com/2026/10/iraqs-dinar-waiting-on-budget-what.html Iraqi economist Nabil Al-Marsoumi says the dollar-to-dinar exchange rate in Iraq's parallel market could remain relatively stable during the next stage, with fluctuations potentially limited to around 2% up or down. Al-Marsoumi describes the situation as the dinar being in a “tunnel,” with the market waiting for greater clarity about Iraq's upcoming budget and the direction of fiscal policy. But what could actually move the dollar? Several factors could affect the gap between Iraq's official exchange rate and the parallel-market rate, including: 💵 Demand for foreign currency 💰 Iraqi dinar liquidity 🏦 Access to dollars through official banking channels 📦 Import financing 🌍 Foreign transfers and trade 📊 Government spending 🇮🇶 Iraq's upcoming budget The important point is that a narrow trading range does not necessarily mean the underlying pressures have disappeared. According to Al-Marsoumi's analysis, the market could remain relatively “sticky” unless a significant economic or financial development changes the balance between dollar supply and demand. And that raises the big question: Will Iraq's next budget help narrow the gap between the official and parallel exchange rates—or will the dinar remain in the tunnel? In this video, we'll break down the economist's analysis and look at what could cause Iraq's dollar market to move into a new range. Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • October 4 · 34 min

    IRAQ FINALLY CLARIFIES THE ZERO REMOVAL STORY - No Decision Yet

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Iraq has issued a new clarification about the possibility of removing zeros from the Iraqi dinar-and the wording matters. My FX Buddies Blog A government source says that discussing or studying a proposal to remove zeros does not mean it has been approved or that implementation has begun. The issue remains in an initial discussion and evaluation phase, with no decision or implementation date announced. The government source also explained that, in principle, removing zeros would mean expressing monetary values in a new unit while converting prices, salaries, savings and obligations at the same rate. In other words, the redenomination itself would not automatically reduce the real value of citizens' money. The Central Bank of Iraq has separately denied reports that it had already printed new Iraqi currency with zeros removed. It said that any future project involving restructuring denominations or removing zeros would require legal, regulatory and technical stages and would be announced through official channels if approved. So what exactly is happening? In this video, we're breaking down: 🇮🇶 What the Iraqi government actually said 💰 What "removing zeros" means 🏦 Why there is NO implementation date 📄 What would have to happen before implementation 💵 What this does—and does NOT—mean for the Iraqi dinar 📊 Why the government is talking about market confidence and purchasing power 🔎 What investors and dinar watchers should watch next Important: A discussion or study of currency redenomination is not the same thing as an approved currency change or an exchange-rate revaluation. Follow Iraq's economic story as the government, Central Bank and financial institutions provide new information. Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • October 4 · 41 min

    THE U.S. SOLDIERS LEAVE IRAQ - But American Companies Are Moving In

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! The U.S.-Iraq relationship is entering a major transition. Link to My FX Buddies Blog The U.S.-led international coalition's military mission in Iraq is scheduled to conclude at the end of September 2026, marking the end of a major chapter in the two countries' relationship. Iraqi officials have described September 30 as the fixed deadline for the conclusion of the coalition's military presence. But while the military relationship is changing, the economic relationship has been expanding. During Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi's July visit to Washington, Iraqi and American companies and government entities announced dozens of agreements, memoranda of understanding and cooperation arrangements. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce said the announced agreements and partnerships were worth more than $60 billion and involved companies including Chevron, ExxonMobil, GE Vernova, Google, JPMorgan Chase, KBR, PepsiCo, Shell and others. Iraqi government reporting separately put the number of agreements and other arrangements at 48, covering sectors including oil, electricity, industry, technology and finance. That creates an important question: If the U.S. military presence is shrinking, what will the American presence in Iraq look like next? This episode examines the shift from: 🇺🇸 Military cooperation ➡️ Economic partnerships ➡️ American companies ➡️ Energy investment ➡️ Banking and finance ➡️ Infrastructure ➡️ Technology ➡️ Diplomatic relations The transformation doesn't mean security and political issues disappear. Those remain part of the relationship. But economically, Iraq is clearly trying to attract more foreign investment and bring major international companies into projects involving energy, infrastructure, finance and other sectors. The bigger story may be that the U.S.-Iraq relationship is moving from bases and forces toward contracts, companies and capital. https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • September 28 · 29 min

    MORE IRAQI OIL, LESS REVENUE? The Dollar Problem Explained

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Iraq's oil exports are recovering—but the economics behind those exports are becoming much more complicated. https://www.myfxbuddies.com/2026/09/iraq-between-oil-and-dollar.html Iraq's Oil Ministry said September crude exports were averaging about 2.6 million barrels per day, significantly above the levels seen during the worst disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. But there's a critical distinction between how much oil Iraq exports and how much revenue Iraq actually receives from that oil. Shipping costs have risen sharply during the regional disruption. Reuters reported that tanker and transportation costs have climbed above $30 per barrel in some cases, while producers have increasingly relied on ship-to-ship transfers and discounted crude to keep oil moving. Reuters also reported that ADNOC purchased large volumes of Iraqi crude at substantial discounts during August and September, helping Iraq maintain export volumes despite logistical problems. That creates three different numbers to watch: 🛢️ Global oil price 🛢️ Actual selling price of Iraqi crude 💵 Net revenue—or netback—after discounts, transportation and other costs And that third number may be the most important. The article “Iraq Between Oil and the Dollar” argues that Iraq's challenge is shifting from simply producing and exporting oil toward protecting the economic value of every barrel. That matters for the Iraqi dinar because oil remains the country's primary source of foreign currency and government revenue. At the same time, the Central Bank of Iraq has said that its foreign reserves are sufficient to meet legitimate foreign-currency demand and attributed the recent rise in the parallel-market dollar to speculation, expectations and geopolitical conditions. So this is not simply a story about oil exports going up or down. It's about: How much oil is Iraq selling? At what price? At what transportation cost? And how many net dollars ultimately reach the Iraqi financial system? That's the bigger story behind the oil-and-dollar connection. https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • September 27 · 33 min

    U.S. DOLLARS HEADED TO IRAQ AGAIN - Why This Matters

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! MORE U.S. CASH DOLLARS ARE COMING TO IRAQ. https://www.myfxbuddies.com/2026/09/us-dollars-headed-to-iraq-again-why.html Iraq's government says a new shipment of U.S. dollar banknotes will arrive in the country in the coming days following understandings reached between Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi's government and the United States. Government spokesman Haider al-Aboudi said the continuation of cash-dollar shipments is intended to help meet legitimate foreign-currency needs. According to the statement, the understanding comes as Iraq strengthens controls over the distribution and use of dollars, expands electronic payment systems and moves toward a more digital economy. 💵 WHY DOES THIS MATTER? Cash-dollar shipments have been an important part of Iraq's financial system. Earlier in 2026, shipments were temporarily interrupted before resuming. A $500 million shipment was reported as arriving in Iraq in August for transactions involving travelers and foreign remittances. Financial adviser Mazhar Mohammed Saleh has previously described these shipments as being drawn from Iraq's dollar reserves held with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York rather than representing newly created Iraqi wealth. 🏦 BUT THERE'S A BIGGER STORY The government is linking the continuation of shipments to improvements in Iraq's financial controls. The statement specifically points to: Better control over dollar distribution Reducing misuse of foreign currency Expanded electronic payments Greater financial transparency A gradual move toward a digital economy That means the story isn't simply about another shipment of physical dollars. It's also about how Iraq is changing the way dollars move through its financial system. 🇮🇶 WHAT COULD THIS MEAN FOR THE DINAR? A larger and more predictable supply of physical dollars can matter for parts of Iraq's foreign-currency market. But the announcement itself does not state that Iraq is changing its official exchange rate. That's an important distinction. The new shipment is about dollar availability and distribution—not an announced revaluation or change to the official dinar rate. 👀 WHAT WE'LL BE WATCHING We'll be watching: 💵 When the new shipment actually arrives 🏦 How the dollars are distributed 📊 What happens in the parallel market 💳 Whether electronic payments continue expanding 🇮🇶 How Iraq's banking system handles foreign-currency demand And whether future U.S.–Iraq financial cooperation leads to additional changes. https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • September 25 · 32 min

    AMERICAN BANKS IN IRAQ? Ali-Z Calls for a New Financial Partnership

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! AMERICAN BANKS AND IRAQ ARE TALKING AND THE SUBJECT IS BANKING REFORM. My FX Buddies Link Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi is calling for stronger cooperation between Iraq and American financial institutions following a roundtable in New York involving representatives of American banks and financial institutions, Iraqi banks, and economic and financial officials. According to the Iraqi Prime Minister's Media Office, al-Zaidi said Iraq is entering a new phase of economic, financial, and banking reform. He specifically highlighted the importance of greater integration with the international banking system and called on American banks and financial institutions to participate in Iraq's economic development. 🔑 The meeting focused on several major issues: 🇮🇶 Iraq's banking reform program 🇺🇸 Greater cooperation with American financial institutions 🏦 Integration with the international banking system 💰 Financing investment and development projects 📊 Governance and compliance 🔐 Protection of public funds and anti-corruption measures 🏛️ Reform of Iraq's state-owned banks Al-Zaidi said the government has established a roadmap for economic, financial and banking reform, including a comprehensive reform program for state-owned banks. He also said the government wants to improve governance, compliance and efficiency within the banking sector. This comes as Iraq's broader banking reform agenda continues to focus on improving compliance standards, increasing bank capital, strengthening governance and developing correspondent banking relationships. The U.S. Treasury has also publicly emphasized cooperation with Iraq and the Central Bank of Iraq on strengthening Iraq's financial sector and combating illicit finance. 🛢️ AND THEN THERE'S IRAQ'S OIL ECONOMY Al-Zaidi also pointed to Iraq's oil production and the government's stated goal of increasing production while using greater revenues to support economic development and diversification. But the bigger question may be what happens outside the oil sector. If Iraq's banking system becomes more integrated with international financial institutions, that could affect how businesses finance trade, investments and development projects. ⚠️ IMPORTANT DISTINCTION This roundtable does not mean that American banks have announced a blanket entry into Iraq or that a specific bank has committed to a particular investment. What the article documents is the Iraqi government's stated desire for deeper cooperation and greater participation by American financial institutions. And that makes the banking-reform process worth watching. What happens next could be just as important as what was said at the table. 🇮🇶 Iraq's banking transformation is becoming an increasingly important part of the country's broader economic story. https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar

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  • September 24 · 37 min

    The Dollar Enters Iraq’s 2027 Budget Debate What Happens Next?

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Iraq's 2027 budget is moving toward Parliament — and the exchange rate is now part of the discussion. 🇮🇶💵My FX Buddies Blog Iraq's Parliamentary Finance Committee is preparing for the expected arrival of the 2027 federal budget draft on October 15, according to committee members and other Iraqi reporting. One of the major numbers being discussed is a potential budget deficit of approximately 65 trillion Iraqi dinars. Finance Committee member Ikhlas Al-Dulaimi said the committee will examine the exchange-rate issue as part of the measures and solutions proposed by the Ministry of Finance to address the deficit. But there is an important distinction: The exchange rate is being discussed — that does NOT mean a new official exchange rate has been announced. The actual budget draft and its financial tables are expected to provide much more detail about: Government revenues Government spending The projected deficit The assumed oil price Oil-export assumptions Deficit financing The exchange-rate issue The oil-price assumption is also still being debated. Earlier reporting put proposals in a range from approximately $50 to $65 per barrel, while other discussions have considered different assumptions depending on market conditions and export expectations. The Iraqi Parliament's Finance Committee has also been working through final-account requirements ahead of consideration of the 2027 budget. And the exchange-rate discussion is not happening in isolation. Iraq's Finance Committee has been examining broader questions involving spending, revenue diversification, oil dependence and financial management. So the big date to watch is: OCTOBER 15, 2026 That's the expected date for the draft 2027 budget to reach Parliament. Once the actual budget tables are available, we'll have a much clearer picture of what Iraq is assuming about the dinar, oil, revenues, spending and the deficit. This is a budget discussion — not an announcement of a new exchange rate. https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • September 23 · 35 min

    IRAQ’S BIG ECONOMIC QUESTION: Who is Running the Economy?

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Who is running Iraq’s economy — and is there one coordinated economic plan? https://www.myfxbuddies.com/2026/09/iraqs-big-economic-question-who-is.html A new September 22 report raises questions about how Iraq is managing some of its most important economic files, including banking reform, liquidity, dollar access, foreign transfers, government spending and the exchange market. The article quotes an economic source who argues that the issue is not simply whether individual decisions are right or wrong, but whether the decisions made by the government and Central Bank of Iraq fit together within a clear economic roadmap. At the same time, the Central Bank of Iraq is carrying out a major banking-sector reform program. Banks have been required to choose among pathways that include remaining independent, merging, or exiting the market, while meeting new requirements involving governance, compliance, risk management and financial soundness. The CBI has also said that part of its reform program is aimed at reconnecting qualifying Iraqi banks with international correspondent banking channels. In July, the bank said seven restricted banks were eligible to return to foreign correspondent channels in currencies other than the dollar after meeting specified compliance and governance requirements. Then there is the liquidity question. The IMF has previously identified excess liquidity and weak monetary-policy transmission as important issues for Iraq, while also calling for stronger coordination between fiscal and monetary policy. And the Central Bank says Iraq has sufficient foreign reserves to meet legitimate foreign-currency demand for trade financing, card settlements and travelers, while attributing recent parallel-market exchange-rate pressure to factors including speculation, expectations and geopolitical conditions. The IMF's current Iraq country page lists a 2026 projected real GDP change of -6.8% and consumer-price growth of 3.0%. Those figures are projections, not a final measurement of 2026 economic performance. So the bigger question is: Are Iraq's economic decisions part of one comprehensive strategy — or are different institutions responding to different problems at different times? In this episode, we'll break down the banking reforms, liquidity issue, dollar market, foreign transfers, state-owned banks, oil dependence and the coordination challenge facing Iraq's economic institutions. https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar #Dinar

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  • September 22 · 35 min

    Iraq at a Turning Point? Rubio Meets Iraq PM

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! U.S. troops are preparing to leave Iraq — and Secretary of State Marco Rubio has now met https://www.myfxbuddies.com/2026/09/iraq-at-turning-point-rubio-meets-iraq.html with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi in New York.The meeting comes just days before the scheduled September 30 departure of the remaining U.S. troops from Iraq. But there's another major deadline happening at the same time. Iraq's government is pushing armed groups toward a process of bringing weapons under state control. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has outlined a new timetable beginning September 30, including a 90-day halt in attacks, followed by weapons handover with the process scheduled to conclude by June 30, 2027. But several powerful factions have resisted the disarmament effort. So what happens when the remaining U.S. troops leave? In this video, we break down: 🇺🇸 Why U.S. troops are leaving Iraq 🇮🇶 Rubio's meeting with Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi 📅 The September 30 deadline 🔫 Iraq's weapons and disarmament process 🗓️ The proposed June 30, 2027 completion date 🇺🇸🇮🇷 The continuing U.S.-Iran competition surrounding Iraq 🏦 The connection between Iraq's political environment and banking system 💵 What this could mean for people watching Iraq's economic and currency reforms The reporting also notes that al-Zaidi previously served as chairman of Al-Janoob Islamic Bank, one of several Iraqi financial institutions barred from U.S.-dollar transactions in 2024. What happens after September 30 could be one of the most important developments to watch in Iraq. 👍 LIKE if you want more Iraq news and economic updates. 💬 COMMENT: What do you think will be the biggest development after September 30? 🔔 SUBSCRIBE for continuing Iraq currency, banking and economic news. Thanks for Watching! Following Iraq’s Story — Don’t Give Up 💰🔥 https://tinyurl.com/godhastheanswers 📌 Disclaimer: This video is for news, commentary, and educational discussion. It is not financial or investment advice. The information presented reflects the source material and analysis available at the time of publication. #Iraq #iraqiDinar #iqdrv #IraqiDinar

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