Saturday, December 16, 2017

Word on the Street Saturday 12/16/17

Word on the Street Saturday 12/16/17




Word on the Street Saturday 12/16/17:
TNT CONFERENCE CALL FRIDAY 12/15/17 DC NY CALL RECAP:
Good afternoon TNT Superfantastic Family. Today is Fantabulous Friday. Just here to let you know I am here with you and will be here till the end. This is not the end yet. Strangely some intel info I am not receiving, and some of the info I have I cannot share. I still feel good about it. Nothing has come in to me that I can share. Usually by now I know what is on TV but dont have that info yet. I probably will get it after the call and will put it in the forum. I am still looking for this between now and Christmas. The info I received is proposed still says by Christmas unless something else comes out pending new information. We are just basically waiting. Things going on that will come to light eventually, and just know we are still moving forward. We are not quite ready to go into the bank right yet. That is all I have right now, so lets go to some questions. Q and A: Q: Tony used to say Iraq will see the new rate before the world sees it. Is that the case? Ray: I don't think that is the case right now. I do think something is going on since a lot of citizens over there are not enjoying any rate activity. Tony said it would be all of Iraq. Q: Have the lower denoms been released to the public? Ray: I can see a possible reminder to merchants what is yet to happen. Not getting info from citizens on the street. The info is not saying how it will show up just it will show up, but not how it will show up. Q: Why are dates and windows such a focus since they cause disappointments? Ray: We should not find ourselves in settings of disappointments. I have not been giving any hard facts but normal expectation from the info I get. Info is turning all so slow, but it is turning. Q: I would like to know how the contract rate will work? Ray: I have no idea what it will be, and members were told rates. Bankers showed some rates on the screen, but I have not had that opportunity yet. That came from one of our members that his banker showed him the rates on the screen. Callers: Caller: Catnip: I appreciate the info even though there is no info at the moment and you said you have not heard from your folks. Are they saying anything about the mosque? Ray: I have not heard any scuttle butt from the mosque. Catnip: You said you cannot share at this moment. It thats the same as 2 weeks ago, or is this brand new info? Ray: It is a combination. Some of it I could not tell you at one time. I have to wait till it is released to the public setting. Caller: 303 I saw a post on FB that I Iraq had just passed a new law or minimum wage. If that is a law and there is 40 million people that means every person would get 1.2 million per month. Doesn't something have to happen first? Ray: When the currency changes value of it will just be lower denominations and will modify to the new currency rate. If the value of the currency changes, they will have to change the wage amount. Caller: 313 What indicators are you getting that show this can happen this year? Ray: Info that I cannot share. Those are the indicators. That is the best way I can answer that for you based on the info that I cannot share. We just have to wait and see. Caller: 636: You made a comment earlier in the call. I came across an article about Iraq Dinar Revaluation. Ray: We don't have any info saying that it is not going to happen. Caller: 312 This is a journey and there is a beginning and an end, and I do believe our destination is coming up real soon. Does private information mean over in Iraq or here.? Ray: It could be both. Caller: 740 If this does not happen by Christmas will you still have calls or go on vacation? Ray: We will still do our regularly scheduled calls and will be on schedule. Caller: Robert in Florida. Iraq's currency was worth more that $3 plus until the sanctions and why could it not just go back to that value again? Ray: Thank You Sir. Caller: 712 We are living the dream and smiling up here. Maybe it will happen a little before Christmas. I thought I would just say hello. Ray:Yes sounds good. Caller: t I was wondering with all this going on with crypto currency would it have an effect on the RV? Ray: No Caller: I am a first time caller. TY for all of the info and I think it is very beneficial. I want to stay in touch with and not a member of TNT and I don't receive tweets. Ray: You will be able to stay in the information loop. When the RV finally appears, we will open the TNT site for those who want to come in can and get information. Caller: 419 Can I retire by the 31st? do you have any info that this may go before Christmas? Ray: Sure you can. LOL I have no solid info it will go before Christmas but those indications are not date specific. It could be we are in process, but we don't know that yet either. Ray's Wrap Up: Tiume has come now to depart, and we need to get out of here. It is Friday, and we are looking for info over the weekend because of this squeezing of the hose and info flowing ever so slow. Hard to expect when, and hopefully into will come over the weekend that will be telling and will tell the significance. Everything being down this weekend Forex and market, this could be an interesting weekend and exciting. If it is we will let you now. I am waiting for info to trickle in and some exciting realities or info taking us to better part of next week. Time will tell, and all we can do is wait and let it come to us. That is what I Beleive. What do you Believe? ! Enjoy your weekend! Rayren98
 
 
Forex Rates: 
 
 
SymbolBidAskHighLowOpenChangeTime
 USD/IQD  1,171.5000  1,222.6000 1,171.5000 1,171.5000 1,171.5000  0.0000 17:36
 USD/VND  22,473.0000  23,154.0000 22,473.0000 22,473.0000 22,473.0000  0.0000 17:36
 USD/CNY  6.5994  6.6194 6.5994 6.5994 6.5994  0.0000 17:36
 USD/KWD  0.3014  0.3024 0.3014 0.3014 0.3014  0.0000 16:00
 GBP/USD  1.3320  1.3323 1.3320 1.3320 1.3320  0.0000 17:00
 USD/IRR  12,048.0000  12,428.0000 12,048.0000 12,048.0000 12,048.0000  0.0000 17:51
 USD/IDR  13,568.0000  13,582.0000 13,568.0000 13,568.0000 13,568.0000  0.0000 16:56
 
 
Friday night 8pm ET closing Forex Rates
 
CNBC Link:  
 
 
 
CNBC Morning Squawk Link:
No link on Saturday
 
 
DC NY Iraq Articles:  d

Iraq appreciates the role of friendly countries in {achievement of victory}

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16/12/2017 12:00 AM
Baghdad / Al-Sabah
The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs appreciated the role of the International Coalition and the friendly and neighboring countries of the region for its contribution to "the achievement of historical victory over Dahesh" while calling on these countries to "contribute" to the reconstruction of liberated areas.
"On the occasion of the Declaration of the Great Victory Day, Iraq thanks the role of the International Alliance and sisterly, friendly and neighborly countries in particular who have stood a heroic position in supporting and supporting the Iraqi armed forces in all of them," Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ahmad Mahjoub said in a press statement. In its fair war on gangs, which did not hesitate to provide air support, advisory, logistical and intelligence, which contributed to the achievement of this historic victory.
"Iraq appreciates the supportive stance of the United Nations and the Security Council, which, in partnership with the United States, Germany, Britain and the voting countries, has adopted important international resolutions to combat terrorism to limit the movement of its fighters and to limit its sources of funding, oil trade and smuggled effects such as Security Council resolutions 2170, 2177 and 2199, "He said.
The spokesman added that he "grateful to the organizations and organizations that have assessed and assessed the high and disciplined performance of our armed forces in all its formations, which fought honorably and bravely, and their humanitarian support for the file of our displaced children as a result of these military operations." He said: "Do not forget the media performance and professional coverage, And Arab and international forces that accompanied our heroine on the fronts of fighting. "
"We have fought on behalf of the whole world and have not failed in our position with us, and tomorrow Iraq is the bearer of the first brigade in fighting and defeating terrorism with the sacrifices of its honorable sons," Mahjoub said.
 
 

Memorandum of Understanding for the implementation of the Baghdad train project suspended

 
16/12/2017 12:00 AM


Baghdad province signed a memorandum of understanding with a French company to implement the project of the train suspended through investment.
The governor of Atwan said that a delegation from the province participated in the 12th meeting of the Iraqi-French Council to discuss the economic situation of the province and the possibility of strengthening the role of companies in order to raise the service reality. He added that one of the French companies expressed their readiness to implement the project investment, while the province signed a memorandum of understanding with them in this regard, adding that the company confirmed that it will form a delegation to visit the province in order to develop mechanisms for the actual implementation of the project.
He pointed out that the province has put forward other projects for investment, including the sewage streams of Husseiniya and seven Bor and Nahrawan, along with the smoothness of the bridge, Husseiniya and Mahmudiyah.

Allawi calls for speed in resolving the files of the return of displaced people and the reconstruction of liberated areas

http://translate.googleusercontent.com/translate_c?depth=2&hl=en&rurl=translate.google.com&sl=ar&sp=nmt4&tl=en&u=http://www.mustaqila.com/%25D8%25B9%25D9%2584%25D8%25A7%25D9%2588%25D9%258A-%25D9%258A%25D8%25AF%25D8%25B9%25D9%2588-%25D9%2584%25D9%2584%25D8%25A7%25D8%25B3%25D8%25B1%25D8%25A7%25D8%25B9-%25D9%2581%25D9%258A-%25D8%25AD%25D8%25B3%25D9%2585-%25D9%2585%25D9%2584%25D9%2581%25D8%25A7%25D8%25AA-%25D8%25A7%25D8%25B9%25D8%25A7%25D8%25AF%25D8%25A9-%25D8%25A7/&usg=ALkJrhh82hV7KPsfZqIQ2G2G2Jn_Z7sAjA
15/12/2017
(Independent) .. He called on Vice President Iyad Allawi to accelerate the resolution of the file of dispute with the Kurdistan region, while warned of the transformation of Kirkuk into a hotbed.
Allawi said in a press conference held during his visit to the province of Najaf, the situation in Kirkuk should be addressed by dialogue and cooperation with all the basic segments in it, in a way that preserves the stability of the city and the cohesion of its social fabric.
And on the date of the elections, Allawi said, "Opinion in this can not be personally, we first emphasize the need to create a sound environment and the electoral environment by expediting the resolution of files to restore the displaced and the reconstruction of liberated areas and the relationship between Baghdad and Erbil and Kirkuk,
Baghdad / Al-Ghad Press:
An Iraqi security source said Friday that security forces imposed a curfew in northern Baghdad.
The source told Al-Ghad Press that "an army security force closed all the entrances and exits of the Tarmiyah district and imposed a curfew in the aforementioned jurisdiction north of the capital."
 
The curfew was a prelude to a security campaign to purge the judiciary of sleeper cells," said al-Masadid, who asked not to be identified.

A demonstration in Tahrir square to demand reforms

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aljournal December 15, 2017
Baghdad_Journal News
A demonstration was launched in Tahrir Square in downtown Baghdad today to demand reform and fight corruption.
The demonstrators raised the Iraqi flags and carried banners calling for the detection of corrupt, and return looted funds, and accounting for those who failed in the massacre Spyker.
The protesters were surrounded by tight security measures, and the roads leading to Tahrir Square were closed and the bridge of the Republic leading to the Green Zone was closed.
 
 
Kauaihn Iraq Articles:

The United Nations calls on Iraq to stop the application of the death penalty

Published: 15.12.2017 | 16:57 GMT | Arab World News
un.org
Liz Throssell, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights called on Iraq to stop the application of the death penalty in the country, after the news of the execution of 38 people convicted of terrorism.
"We were deeply shocked and dismayed by the mass execution carried out on Thursday against 38 people in the southern Iraqi city of Nasiriyah," UNHCR spokesman Liz Throsel told reporters at a news conference in Geneva.
Those persons had been sentenced to death for terrorism-related charges, but she had expressed UNHCR's doubts that the criteria for a fair trial had been applied in all cases of convicts.
Throssell said that 106 people were executed in Iraq this year, and that one day last September, 42 people were executed hanging in the same prison.
"We again urge the Iraqi authorities to suspend all executions, stop the application of the death penalty and initiate a comprehensive review of their criminal justice systems," the spokeswoman said.
The Iraqi Justice Ministry on Thursday announced the execution of 38 convicted of terrorism-related crimes, less than a week after the Iraqi government announced the final victory over the organization "Daash" in the country.
Sweden confirmed the presence of an Iraqi citizen with Swedish nationality among the poor sentenced to death for terrorism charges in 2010. Swedish media said he was 60 years old.
Swedish Foreign Minister Margo Wahlstrom said in a statement that her country, like all EU countries, condemned the application of the death penalty as "inhuman, cruel and irreversible."
And the implementation of the death penalty according to the Iraqi constitution, requires the ratification of the President of the Republic to acquire legal status, and that the Ministry of Justice to carry out the death sentences convicted after receiving special decrees from the presidency

 

Hamoudi: Iraq has proved its strength and weight in the region


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16/12/2017 12:00 AM
Baghdad / Al-Sabah
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Hamam Hamoudi called for honoring the heroes of the security forces with housing projects and promotions to honor their victories, stressing that Iraq, as it won in the battle of the trenches, will win the security battle to consolidate law and order.
Corruption. During his visit and the delegation of the leadership of the Supreme Islamic Council to the Ministry of Interior and his meeting with Minister Qassim al-Araji and a number of senior leaders, Hamoudi stressed the importance of "the leading role of the federal police and the intelligence services in the battle." He said that this will be preserved by history and should be included in the curriculum to be proud of generations And strengthen their sense of pride and pride in their homeland ». Hamoudi added that «Iraq has proven its strength and weight in the region, and that he is able to change many of the equations, so the enemies and enemies will seek to occupy himself», expressing his great hope and confidence in «the efforts of the Ministry of the Interior in maintaining the home front and social peace and public interests, Parallel to the victory of our security forces in the battle of the trenches (the smaller jihad). " For his part, the Minister of the Interior expressed his thanks to the visit of the delegation of the Supreme Council and his initiative to thank the makers of victory, and said: «This will push the security forces to further the tender and enhance their confidence
Themselves ". Araji reviewed «the achievements of the ministry and the sacrifices of its employees» indicating that «gave about 28 thousand martyrs and 26 thousand wounded, and prepared studies and integrated plans to meet the challenges of the post-dodging and with the support of the Prime Minister».
Araji stressed «full readiness of the Ministry of Interior to implement the directives of the leadership in the fight against corruption and the arrest of those involved, the Interior of all Iraqis and working for the security and safety of all»

 

Direct implementation of UNESCO's recommendations to include the city of Babylon on the World Heritage List
16/12/2017 12:00 AM
Under the second stage of this file
Babylon / Jinan Asadi
The directorate of the Directorate of Antiquities of Babylon, the implementation of the observations made by UNESCO to include the archaeological city within the list of world heritage. Director General of the Directorate Hussein Al-Ammari said in a statement to the "morning": The Directorate began in coordination with the relevant authorities, including the provincial council and the province and residents of the region and civil society organizations Observations made by the UNESCO World Organizations that visited the ancient city of Babylon during the last period.
He added that the implementation of the recommendations comes within the second phase of the project to include the city within the list of world heritage according to the period set for him until February of next year 2018, indicating that there are a number of maintenance work carried out in the city of archaeological rehabilitation of the original Ishtar Gate, 70 percent and the Tower of God, as well as the maintenance of the internal wall of the Temple of Ishtar and the erection of a fence to the Babylonian Babylon, in addition to other preventive work.
Al-Ammari said that the city needs exploration work, especially that the proportion of which we are 8 percent of them, noting that the lack of financial allocations prevent the conduct of exploration, pointing to the contact of the Directorate of the German exploration teams are currently in coordination with the American side because he owns the fund for the purpose of exploration .
He added that the inclusion of the city on this global list has positive implications, including the provision of financial allocations required annually for the work of exploration and maintenance as well as international support to be provided to those sites by foreign organizations and stimulate foreign tourism and local and thus improve the economic level of the population of the region.
On the obstacles facing the Directorate, Amari said that the most prominent lack of financial allocations to carry out the ongoing maintenance and exploration as well as abuses by the residents of the region and their lack of knowledge and their real perception of the importance of this historic legacy, which affected the distortion of the area near the effects because of the presence of landfill near Historic City.
Al-Quds Press / Salah Baban:
A senior official in the Kurdistan Regional Government, on Friday, the visit of the head of the regional government, Nechirvan Barzani, to Germany on Monday.
"Barzani will visit Berlin next Monday and meet with German Foreign Minister Zikmar Kabriel," the official said. "The visit will be for the purpose of discussing developments in the region, especially with regard to the current crisis between Baghdad and the region." 
He explained that "a high-level delegation from the regional government will accompany Barzani on his visit to Berlin."

 

Iraq sells 2 million barrels of Basra crude to UNIPEC

 
Sumo did not gear up two million barrels of heavy Basra crude, which it also put on Platts auctions
BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq's oil marketing company Sumo has successfully sold two million barrels of Basrah Light crude to China's Unipec, the company said in a report on Plats .
The Iraqi oil marketing company "Sumo" succeeded in selling two million barrels of Basra light crude to the delivery of January 20 to the Chinese company Unipec at a premium of 40 cents a barrel above the official selling price, according to Reuters .
One source said that the shipment brought a strong price premium because the company "Sumo" allowed the buyer to announce the destination of the shipment 14 days after the issuance of the bill of lading instead of the usual procedure to be three days ahead of the announcement, adding that this gives flexibility to sell the shipment east or west on the authority Which will bring a higher value .
On the other hand, Sumo did not sell two million barrels of heavy Basra crude, which it also put on Platts auctions, according to the sources .
The memo showed today that the Iraqi oil marketing company Sumo intends to sell up to four million barrels of Basra crude loaded January at the auction of Platts.

 
Kauaihn Economic Times:
 
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GLOBAL/NEWS/INFO
Miami Penthouse Hits the Market for 33 Bitcoin, No Other Form of Payment Accepted
Newsweek
A listing for a Miami penthouse specifies that it will only be accepting bitcoin in the sale, but real estate experts don't see the cryptocurrency payment as a lasting trend. Read the full story



One question will tell you if you're actually wealthy
Whether or not you're truly rich has little to do with how much you earn, argues one financial analyst.

Mark Zuckerberg, Priscilla Chan share tips to work with a spouse—and how they'll spend their wealth
"What makes us a good team is that we're both optimistic about the future at a time when a lot of people don't feel that way," the couple says.


OIL/COMMODITIES/ENERGY
Opinion: Gold, languishing at a five-month low, still isn’t ripe for buying
MarketWatch
More bearishness needs to set in for contrarians to embrace the precious metal, says Mark Hulbert. Read the full story

Global gold prices inch up as dollar slips on tax bill worries
Livemint
Gold prices edged higher in Asian trade on Friday, heading for their first weekly gain in four, as the dollar sagged on concerns about the progress of US tax reform. Read the full story

Gasoline prices lift US consumer inflation 0.4 percent
Chron.com
WASHINGTON (AP) — Surging gasoline prices pulled U.S. consumer inflation up 0.4 percent in November. The Labor Department said Wednesday that prices at the pump increased a sharp 7.3 percent after falling in October. Excluding volatile food and energy prices, so-called core consumer inflation rose a modest 0.1 percent in November. Read the full story


Oil fights to stay positive as supply concerns niggle
MarketWatch
WTI oil futures were poised to slide for the week, while Brent could be looking at modest gains, as investors continue to watch for news on a pipeline outage in the North Sea and an update on rig counts. Read the full story



BANKS/BANKING/CREDIT
Opinion | Basel III Is Too Kind to Europe's Banks
Bloomberg
Europe's bank regulators prefer to look on the bright side. After years of talks, central banks and financial regulators have finally agreed on the Basel III rules for bank capital. That's a good thing, mostly. The deal improves the regulatory framework and will give banks greater clarity about what's required. It's also a timely reminder that international policy cooperation can work. There's a catch, however: The new rules have been watered down. Since the financial crisis, the European Union Read the full story

South Korea blockchain association announces virtual currency transparency measures
Reuters
A South Korean blockchain association announced on Friday measures to boost transparency in trading of cryptocurrencies, agreed by 14 exchanges in the country including the world's busiest virtual currency exchange, Bitthumb. Read the full story

Blockchain can lift billions out of poverty, Overstock CEO says
Fox News
Overstock CEO Patrick Byrne is hoping to use his original take in bitcoin to eradicate poverty around the world. Read the full story


TREASURIES/BONDS/STOCKS
Dow, S&P set for 4th week of gains as traders shake off tax worries
MarketWatch
U.S. stock futures advanced on Friday, on track to add to weekly gains as investors appeared to shake off the latest worries over progress for tax cuts. Read the full story

Asian shares edge up, on track for weekly gain
Reuters
Asian shares edged higher on Friday, on track for weekly gains, though sentiment was kept in check by Wall Street's weakness on concerns about the progress of U.S. tax reform. Read the full story

Dow snaps five-day winning streak as market takes a breather
MarketWatch
The Dow Jones Industrial Average snapped a five-day winning streak Thursday with the market taking a breather after several record-breaking sessions. Materials and health care sectors topped the losses while consumer discretionary shares were the sole gainers. The Dow fell 67 points, or 0.3%, to close at 24,517. The S&P 500 dropped 10 points, or 0.4%, to end at 2,652 while the Nasdaq Composite Index shed 19 points, or 0.3%, to close at 6,856. Read the full story

Why the yield curve flattening — a recession red flag — is the ‘real deal’
MarketWatch
As intense debate swirls over the portents of the yield curve’s flattening, bond market notable Jeff Gundlach weighed in to proclaim the recent trend as the “real deal.” Read the full story

Top 5 Things to Know in the Market on Friday
Investing.com
© Reuters. 5 key factors for the markets on Friday Read the full story



INSURANCE/HEALTH
Tax bill kills health insurance mandate
NBC News
The tax bill being considered in Congress kills the individual mandate - the unpopular Obamacare provision that required everyone to buy health insurance. Read the full story

Last day to sign up for Obamacare is here
CNN Money
Consumers in most states have until Friday to sign up for Obamacare. Open enrollment ends Dec. 15. Read the full story


CRYPTO'S / DIGITAL CURRENCY
Bitcoin futures rebound, pointing to a run at $18,000; spot prices higher as well
MarketWatch
Bitcoin prices rebounded on Friday from a weaker prior session, with $18,000 a possibility once again. Read the full story

Litecoin founder predicts future for bitcoin and his own runaway cryptocurrency
CNBC
Litecoin Founder Charlie Lee wants people to stop fussing over the gravity-defying rally in the cryptocurrency. Read the full story

Why Bitcoin is Surging in the Countries Trying Hardest to Stop It
FORTUNE
Bitcoin trading expanded faster this year in emerging markets than developed ones — and quickest of all in places where authorities tried to crack down. Somewhere, Satoshi Nakamoto is smiling. After all, avoiding bank and government oversight, and sidestepping the eroding effects of inflation, was what Nakamoto had in mind when he (or she, or they) created bitcoin in 2008. Peer-to-peer bitcoin trading in major developing nations outpaced the U.S., the world’s biggest market, according to data Read the full story

How to buy and sell bitcoinCNN
As the hype around bitcoin increases, CNN Tech shows you how to buy and sell it ... and why you might not want to. Read the full story

Three things to know before you trade bitcoin futures
CNBC
Trader Jeff Kilburg lists three things to know before you trade bitcoin futures. Read the full story

If you invested $1,000 in bitcoin in 2013, here’s how much you’d have now
CNBC
The cryptocurrency bitcoin recently hit a high of $19,340, but it was a lot cheaper several years ago. Read the full story

Bitcoin keeps soaring, but big crypto deals are scarce
CNBC
Big banks could be getting closer to making big bitcoin acquisitions, as blockchain bets keep growing. Read the full story

The Bitcoin holiday gift guide, including diamond earrings, travel and soap
CNBC
Bitcoin has surged this year from less than $1,000 to $17,000. Read the full story

The Fed could pump the breaks on bitcoin's 1,500% rally
Business Insider UK
REUTERS/Joshua Roberts The Federal Reserve on Wednesday raised its benchmark interest rate 25 basis points to a range between 1.25% and 1.5%. Don Ross, the CEO of CODA Markets, a Chicago-based dark pool, thinks further rate hikes could pump the breaks on bitcoin's eye-popping rally. "I don't like to feed the beast, but it's hard to resist." See the rest of the story at Business Insider NOW WATCH: The CIO of a crypto hedge fund explains the value in cryptocurrency — and why the market will Read the full story

How to make money off of bitcoin without actually buying it
CNBC
Bitcoin: it's electric. Read the full story

CURRENCIES
HSBC's currency expert gives his best trades for 2018
HITC
The Australian dollar is set to gain 10 percent on the USD in 2018, HSBC predicts Read the full story

Forex - Dollar Slips Lower Amid Fresh U.S. Tax Reform WoesInvesting.com
Dollar loses ground on U.S. political concers, Fed still weighs Read the full story

Forex - Dollar Remains Moderately Lower in Cautious Trade
Investing.com
© Reuters. Dollar still on the downside as tax reform worries weigh Read the full story

POUND LIVE: Sterling slides as euro data booms
Express
THE pound opened lower against the euro on Friday, adding to losses from Thursday as a slew of positive data from Europe sent the single currency and stock markets up. Sterling was down 0.1 per cent against the euro to €1.1391 in early morning trading after upgraded forecasts for economic growth and inflation and strong manufacturing data from France and Germany released on Thursday encouraged traders. President of the ECB Mario Draghi said European GDP was predicted to come in at 2.3 per cent Read the full story

Pound to euro exchange rate: Sterling GAINS amid inflation rate woes
Express
THE POUND has gained again amid Bank of England interest rate news as inflation is unlikely to drop to normal levels for another three years. The pound is currently trading against the euro at €1.139, having reached highs of €1.14 earlier today. It follows on from a tumultuous week following the Office for National Statistics figures showing a drop in employment as well as a stagnating wage growth. This has meant that wages are still struggling to increase with inflation rates, causing Read the full story

Mexico's peso strengthens as central bank raises interest rates
MarketWatch
The Mexican peso rose against the U.S. dollar on Thursday, after Mexico's central bank, known as Banxico, lifted its overnight interest rate to 7.25% from 7% before, as expected. Mexico's high interest rate make it an attractive destination for investors looking for emerging-market exposure, while also being tied to the U.S. economy as its main trading partner. The peso began to rally halfway through the U.S. trading day, in anticipation of the rate hike, paring its losses and finally rising Read the full story

NZ dollar gains vs euro as Draghi reiterates stimulus pledge | Scoop News
Scoop
Dec. 15 (BusinessDesk) - The New Zealand dollar rose against the euro after European Central Bank president Mario Draghi reiterated his commitment to providing monetary stimulus in the eurozone, even while the bank lifted its growth and inflation forecasts. Read the full story

Rupee hits 3-month high against US dollar after exit polls show BJP win in Gujarat
Livemint
Mumbai: The Indian rupee on Friday hit a two-month high against the US dollar as local markets jumped over 320 points after exit polls projected a saffron win in both Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh. Read the full story

Forex - Dollar Gains Against Yen After Tankan Survey Gives Upbeat Reading
Investing.com
Dollar dips in Asia Read the full story


USA/CANADA
Trump just shut down Tillerson’s attempt to talk with North Korea — again
Vox
The former top oil executive turned diplomat just can’t catch a break. Read the full story

GOP pushes final version of tax bill but holdouts remain
CBS News
A pair of GOP senators are balking, because the bill only hikes the child tax credit by $100 -- a big backtrack from the Senate's previous bill Read the full story

Paul Ryan Sees His Wild Washington Journey Coming to An EndPOLITICO
He felt he was ‘made for this moment.’ But now, on the verge of achieving his long-sought legislative dream, he’s got his eyes on the exits. Read the full story

The end of net neutrality: What it all means
CNN Money
The FCC just voted to repeal net neutrality. Here's what you need to know. Read the full story

With GOP on the verge of a tax victory, Rubio throws in a wrench
POLITICO
The Florida senator is demanding a more generous child tax credit to win his vote. Read the full story

Trump to Visit FBI Academy After Saying Agency ‘In Tatters'
Bloomberg
President Donald Trump plans to visit the FBI Academy in Quantico in Virginia on Friday, the White House said in a statement, an appearance that comes less than two weeks after he said the agency’s reputation was “in Tatters.” Trump has frequently criticized the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which is investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election and the possible involvement of Trump’s campaign under the direction of Special Counsel Robert Mueller. He said in a tweet earlier this Read the full story


Some Canada firms could move to U.S. amid NAFTA worries: surveyReuters
More a quarter of Canadian firms could move part of their operations to the United States amid uncertainty over the future of the NAFTA trade pact, the nation's export credit agency said on Friday. Read the full story




EMERGING MARKETS
How to Rebuild Puerto Rico
Bloomberg Businessweek
■ December 14, 2017, 5:00 AM EST Three months after Hurricane Maria, the island is still in crisis. Its people know their future depends on more than mending what Maria destroyed. 1. Round One Fear hit Orlando Gonzalez only after the storm had already been battering his grandmother’s house for more than 12 hours. It wasn’t the wind or the rain. It was the voice of his father calling for his mother. Evelyn! The scream startled the whole family, coming from such an unflappable man. Read the full story

7 Ways To Help Puerto Rico Over The Holidays, Because The Island Still Needs Your SupportBustle
We're heading into the full swing of the holiday season, and for a lot of us, that means it's officially the giving season. If you're looking for ways to help out someone in need over the holidays, remember that many people in Puerto Rico are still s… Read the full story

Exclusive: Chevron nears Schlumberger deal to drill wells in Brazil: sources
Reuters
Chevron Corp has reached preliminary agreement with oil services firm Schlumberger NV to drill six wells in a Brazilian offshore field, two sources said this week, in a bid to lift its output in the South American country after a 2011 oil spill there cut production. Read the full story




Mexico plots open trade course to escape Trump's NAFTA threats
Reuters
U.S. President Donald Trump's 'America First' brand of economic nationalism is pushing Mexico to seek sanctuary in more open commercial ties elsewhere to soften the blow of a possible breakdown of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Read the full story


MIDDLE EAST
Saudi hopes purge will help push to join anti-illicit funding body
Reuters
Saudi Arabia has high hopes that a campaign of arrests to crack down on corruption will improve its chances of joining the Financial Action Task Force, a global body dedicated to combating illicit money flows. Read the full story

Lebanon: Oil and gas drilling to begin in 2019
ABC News
Lebanon's energy and water minister says the country will start exploratory offshore drilling for oil and gas in 2019 Read the full story

Palestinians-Israelis clash as Jerusalem fallout continues
ABC News
Palestinians protesters are scuffling with Israeli forces as fallout continues over President Donald Trump's announcement recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital last week Read the full story


Israeli police question Netanyahu again in corruption probe
ABC News
Israeli police question Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu again as part of investigation into two corruption allegations Read the full story


AFRICA
IMF Says Zimbabwe Commits to Economic Reforms in Post-Mugabe Era
Bloomberg
A portrait of former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe after it was removed from a hall in Harare on Dec. 14, 2017. The International Monetary Fund said the new Zimbabwean government has pledged that it will address an economic crisis to unlock international aid. An IMF mission just concluded its first visit this week to the southern African nation since the removal of former President Robert Mugabe to assess the struggling economy, fund spokesman William Murray said at a briefing in Washington Read the full story

Zimbabwe ruling party meets to seal Mugabe's fall from grace
ABC News
Zimbabwe ruling party meets to seal Mugabe's fall from grace, position new leader for election Read the full story

Goldman Sachs' Coleman on Race to Lead S. Africa's ANC
Bloomberg
Colin Coleman, head of Sub-Saharan Africa office at Goldman Sachs, discusses South Africa's ANC electing a new leader this weekend and the importance of this election. He speaks on "Bloomberg Markets: European Open." Read the full story

South Africa is turning cow waste into energy
CNN
The Bio2watt plant outside of Johannesburg is able to create electricity by converting waste from 25,000 cows Read the full story

IMF Says Zimbabwe Commits to Economic Reforms in Post-Mugabe Era
Bloomberg
A portrait of former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe after it was removed from a hall in Harare on Dec. 14, 2017. The International Monetary Fund said the new Zimbabwean government has pledged that it will address an economic crisis to unlock international aid. An IMF mission just concluded its first visit this week to the southern African nation since the removal of former President Robert Mugabe to assess the struggling economy, fund spokesman William Murray said at a briefing in Washington Read the full story


ASIA
Exclusive: China's CNPC weighs taking over Iran project if Total leaves - sources
Reuters
China's top oil and gas company CNPC is considering taking over Total's stake in a giant Iranian gas project if the French company leaves Iran to comply with any new U.S. sanctions, industry sources said. Read the full story

Asian stocks track Wall Street declines; Kospi rebounds
MarketWatch
Japan had a roller-coaster afternoon. Among the region’s biggest decliners in the morning, led by cellphone-service providers and fresh pressure from a strengthened yen. Read the full story

Can China’s funds of funds open a US$121b floodgate of inflows after a whimpering start?
South China Morning Post
The first six funds, which raised a combined US$2.5b, have either posted small losses or gains in their first month Read the full story

Britain's finance minister in China to promote trade
ABC News
Britain's finance minister tells China's premier there are "many opportunities" to expand commercial ties as he starts a visit aimed at developing trade as the United Kingdom prepares to leave the European Union Read the full story

EUROPE


Europe’s plan to forget Britain and unseat the US as leader of the free world
Quartz
Brussels, Belgium It was September in New York City, and Federica Mogherini had a big stage. On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, the… Read the full story

Stocks - European Markets Open Lower as U.S. Concerns Weigh
Investing.com
© Reuters. Frankfurt Stock Exchange Read the full story

Brexit: EU leaders set to move talks on to next stage
BBC News
Theresa May was applauded by European counterparts at a dinner on Thursday, ahead of the EU decision. Read the full story

Theresa May, Once a ‘Dead Woman Walking,’ Reaches a First Finish Line
The New York Times
Mocked for months as weak and robotic, the British prime minister has earned sympathy in Brussels — and some respite at home — by doggedly carrying on. Read the full story
d
 
 
Blessed and Highly Favored:
 
CBI Update:
 
The CBI is closed on Friday and Saturday
ISX Update:
The ISX is closed on Friday and Saturday
 
 
Kauaihn Chatter: 
 
 
d
 
12-16-2017   Newshound Guru Adam Montana  [...do you have some good news about thé HCL?  RV?]    I wish I did right now! We're in a little bit of a lull with the HCL, and I'm not sure when that lull will be over, but I AM certain that it will end soon.  All we can do right now is wait to hear some news. My guess is we should get HCL news within the next 6 weeks. It's a topic that cannot be ignored forever, it's something they NEED regardless of their currency value, and it is only going to benefit them.   I get torn on this next statement... I want to say "the sooner, the better!" But then I also like the sound of "The HIGHER, the better!"   With those words in mind, I usually decide it's best if I exercise some of that virtue called "patience", and I'm ok with letting it take a little longer if it's going to be done right.
 
12-15-2017   Intel Guru RayRen98   The information that I have received suggests that this will still be released by Christmas, and that’s where I’m staying, pending new information.  That is it:  we’re just basically waiting. There are things going on that cannot be shared;  they will come to light in due time. They do sound good and we are moving forward, we’re just not quite ready to go to the bank and do our exchange.

12-15-2017   Newshound Guru MilitiaMan   Article:  "Iraqi bank receives international award"   Another indicator of significant progress or coming about international if you will. Setting up for to the final outcome imo.

12-15-2017   Newshound/Intel Guru Mnt Goat   We know ...currency auctions are killing the CBI reserves and must be halted due to corruption. These auctions limit the ability to trade and pay in Iraqi dinars...   We know last month that Iraq made trade agreements with boarding countries (Iran, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Iran) and to pay debts in their own currencies. Meaning Iraq is to pay in Dinars, Iran in Riyal, etc. Oh – but how can Iraq when they are restricted in these currency auctions to convert Iraqi IQD to USD and pay in US dollars?  We now know (from a previous article this week) that the financial fiscal year for Iraq ends today Dec 15th.  I am not going to give you any promises of an RV.  I am only trying to bring out the possibilities with EVIDENCE, PROOF and FACTS that this RV ride may soon be over.  ...There is just so much evidence pointing in the direction of the end of the year.   [post 2 of 2]

12-15-2017   Newshound/Intel Guru Mnt Goat   If you are paying attention to all the news...You should, and now be aware Iraq is on a very strong position to the final phases of the “project to delete the zeros”. The news could not get any better.  Last week Iraq delivered to us some amazing news. It was all news that we have been waiting for many years to receive. It is here now and we are moving forward at a faster pace.   We heard from the IMF, after the release from Chapter VII, that Iraq is now truly a “fully” sovereign nation...and can now freely deal with the international community...  ...Iraq can now handle all its oil sales revenues directly.  [post 1 of 2....stay tuned]

12-15-2017   Newshound Guru MilitiaMan      Quote:  "We would like to inform you that RTL transfers has been activated MSG via electronic services via the Internet‎"   This is telling us Iraq just went Digital... imo... if this is true, then our time is near! imo

12-15-2017   Intel Guru Bruce   We told you Iraq...completed everything they needed to do concerning the speech PM Abadi made last Saturday.   He actually did mention the rate of the dinar at the time and it was covered by CNN Internationally.  What is amazing is the only thing we are looking for from Iraq is the rate of the dinar, the new rate, the value posted on the CBI website, and the CBI rate to find its way to the Forex. The same thing is true for the UN Operational rates...they occur on the 1st and the 15th of every month.   I feel we are right there. It could happen at any moment, over night tonight, or tomorrow [Friday].  We will see what happens. All I can tell you is tomorrow [Friday] could be an important day as far as UN Operational rates, as far as Forex goes.  It should be before Christmas. This should be our Christmas gift to the world, and be able to enjoy it as never before.
12-15-2017   Newshound Guru Enorrste  Article:  "World Bank: ready for the advancement of the Iraqi economy"   I agree with KAP that the fact that this is being driven by the World Bank is very significant. [Reference Guru Kaperoni post 12-14-2017]  In the past we have heard many times that "in the coming period" something may happen, but these were all from within the GOI or CBI.  The politics intervened and delays occurred.  However, with the World Bank behind this move it seems that we may finally begin to see some real economic growth in the country.  Obviously with that growth there will be a strengthening of the currency which should allow for the float to begin.  It could take several months, but at least we have one of the "big boys" behind this, finally.
 
12-14-2017   Newshound/Intel Guru Mnt Goat   Article quote:   "TO FINANCE IMPORTS MUST BE A CONVERSION IN FOREIGN CURRENCY," noting that "THERE IS A QUESTION MARK ON THE CURRENCY SIGN CAUSED BY CONFUSION BETWEEN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF MONETARY POLICY OF THE CENTRAL BANK to control the levels of liquidity and at the same time trade finance, to create this ambiguity."   ...sounds like Saleh is saying that Iraq needs to stop these currency auctions and use dinar in foreign trade and not go through this conversion process.The only way they can this is to use the dinar and to use the dinar they have to revalue the currency or they will have hyper-inflation. He is also criticizing the CBI for its currency practices in this regard.
 
 
Elmer:
 
Not in today
 
Artmeister:
 
On Thursday, December 14, 2017 7:06 PM


Summary: Pres. Trump says he will eliminate most US laws!
 
Bruce indicates RV released in next day or two.
 
TANK
Keep your chin up and your eyes open.
From Carden:
Today, around 2 PM CST, President Donald Trump told the world that he's repealing most of the 185,000 Federal laws implemented which grew from 60,000 since the time of JFK, way back before 1962.
He said, "We're going to do even better than that. We're going to get back to the basics, good business, fair dealings, encouraging prosperity."
On the surface this sounds like the announcement of the New Republic to me. I mean you've gotta know what you know!
The New Republic is here now. Today, tonight, tomorrow, we WILL be notified.
The Big Call-Bruce Thursday Night
Bruce: I don’t think we will be on the call after tonight.
Intel: Iraq. Really complete, completed everything they need to do, with speech of Abadi last Saturday, liberation, Gold backed Dinar. Rate was on CNN International.
Since then, US media not allowed to put out rate.
The only real thing we are looking for is the rate of the dinar, to be posted on the CBI website, and for that rate to find its way on to the FOREX.
They jumped the gun and put some of the new rates on FOREX, then had to take them off and wait for the proper time. That time was supposed to be 730 Eastern.
UN Operational rates should go active after midnight tonight. First and 15th. Gives people an idea of what the variance of the rate is twice a month.
You MAY see the new rates on the UN rates page.
Everything else we hear from West [Reno]
We heard last night that China had kicked off everything, a couple of minutes after 9 on east coast. 9 am in china.
Funds were given so that groups could be paid. Happening out West today, so that people who were paid will have access to their funds when the toll free number is put out.
I believe that when that number goes out, that is the last step in the countdown that we are waiting for.
We look forward to the receipt of that number, so that we can put it out.
Internet group will be able to make their appt for the redemption.
Why redemption? Religious term. Zimbabwe bonds are being redeemed, other currencies exchanged.
Redemption centers have received memos giving them the times for the starts of appointments. They have said at the call center they are ready to receive the calls.
Zim is a two stage process. As we have said before.
We know that the redemption centers will be available for a period of 7-11 days.y
 
 
Catnip:
 
ARTICLE 1 (from PM Abadi's website; posted only on Arabic side, not posted on English side)

Statement

15 - December - 2017

Prime Minister Dr. Haider al-Abbadi expresses his thanks and appreciation for the positions of the religious authority defending Iraq, the unity of its people, its security, its safety and its future in the post-victory phase, embodied in the historical jihad and the conscious response by our Mujahid people. Victory and the cleansing of our land and our cities from the terrorist gang.

We affirm that the government continues to take care of the families of the martyrs and the wounded who are the makers of victory, the restoration of stability and the displaced to the liberated areas, in addition to limiting the weapons to the state, which has been started to implement it, and achieving social peace, addressing the ideological and behavioral roots and backgrounds of terrorism and eliminating its effects. In all its forms.

We welcome the call of the religious authority not to exploit the volunteers and fighters in the political rally, which emphasizes the importance of keeping the security institutions from engaging in political action, which is supported by the Popular Popular fighters and associates. This was confirmed by the commander-in-chief of the armed forces on more than one occasion. 91 of 2016, which sets the organizational basis for the popular mobilization body, which was later legislated by the Commission's law. The government is working to organize the crowd according to the legal contexts of the state and to take care of the courageous fighters. The presence of volunteers who have worked valiantly together with Other security forces represent a consistent policy of the government.
Prime Minister 's Media Office
15 - December - 2017

*************
ARTICLE 2

Tweet from PM Abadi, posted on 12-15-2017, around 9:15 AM Eastern)

Haider Al-Abadi Verified account @HaiderAlAbadi

Dr. Abbadi expresses his deep thanks and gratitude for the positions of the religious authority defending Iraq, the unity of its people, its security and its future in the post-victory phase, embodied in the fatwa of Jihad and the conscious response of our people who supported our heroic forces until victory and the cleansing of our land
*************
ARTICLE 3

Abadi vows to the reference to "fighting rampant corruption and confronting it in all its forms"
2017/12/15 17:14
[Ayna-Baghdad]
Prime Minister Haider al-Abbadi, the supreme religious authority, pledged that the government will fight corruption and confront it.
Abadi said, according to a statement of his office received the agency of all Iraq [where] a copy of him that "his thanks and appreciation and great pride of the positions of the religious authority defending Iraq and the unity of its people and security and safety and its future in the post-victory, embodied in the historical jihad and the conscious response by Our Mujahid people who supported our heroine forces until victory and the cleansing of our land and cities from a terrorist gang. "
He stressed that "the government continues to take care of the families of the martyrs and the wounded who are the makers of victory, the restoration of stability and the displaced to the liberated areas, in addition to limiting the weapons of the state, which has been started to implement it, achieving social peace and addressing the ideological and behavioral roots and backgrounds of terrorism and removing its effects, In all its forms. "
Abadi also welcomed the invitation of the religious authority not to exploit the volunteers and fighters in the crowd politically, which emphasizes the importance of keeping the security institutions from engaging in political action and supported by the Popular Struggle fighters and associates.
He pointed out that he "stressed this on more than one occasion and has issued at an early stage Diwani Order 91 of 2016, which sets the organizational basis for the Popular Propaganda Authority, which was later legislated by the law of the Commission."
"The government is working to organize the crowd in accordance with the legal context of the state and to take care of the brave fighters. The presence of volunteers who have worked valiantly alongside other security forces is a consistent policy of the government," the prime minister said.
The supreme religious authority stressed in Friday sermon on the care of the families of martyrs and wounded, "noting that" this task is primarily the duty of the government and the House of Representatives to provide financial allocations for them. "
Karbalai stressed that "moving seriously and effectively against corruption and spoilers is one of the priorities of the next phase. It is necessary to combat financial and administrative corruption firmly and forcefully through activating legal frameworks and practical and realistic plans away from formal and review procedures."
"The battle against corruption - which is long overdue - is no less fierce than the battle of terrorism, if not more severe, and the honorable Iraqis who were caught up in the battle of terrorism are capable of fighting the battle of corruption and winning it if they manage it professionally and firmly, .

*************
ARTICLE 4

Maliki: Iraq is exposed to plots as happened to Jerusalem
2017/12/15 19:40
[Ayna-Baghdad]
"Iraq has become stronger and we can not forget that there are conspiracies that have been woven as happened to Jerusalem," said Vice President Nuri al-Maliki, referring to US President Donald Trump's decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
Maliki said in a speech during the Fourth Medical Conference of dentists held in Najaf, "I am very happy at this conference, especially as it is held in the atmosphere of victory over terrorism, I salute all those who contributed to achieve that victory, stressing that Iraq today after this victory to build and reconstruction" .
He stressed "the need to develop academic programs and linking them to practice, and activate the programs of continuing professional education and strengthen the role of pharmacist in the health system in the framework of commitment to the ethics and traditions of the profession of ancient pharmacy."
"You are adopting and others want to be destroyed," Maliki said, addressing the pharmacists.

*************
ARTICLE 5

The wonderful health benefits of rose water for the body

BAGHDAD, Iraq - December 15: Rose water is a water-distilled liquid that has been used in the Arabian region since the 7th century for its fine aroma and health benefits. The most important benefits of rose water:
Rose water can be used as a drop of the eye to relieve eye problems, such as: conjunctivitis, dry eye, inflammation of the tear sac, and white water skin. The skin is the largest organ of the body, and is the first and primary protective shield of body organs. Rose water contains antioxidants that protect skin cells from damage caused by sunlight or other factors. Besides, rose water is anti-inflammatory to the skin, thus helping to soothe itching and eczema and reduce redness.
Respiratory system. Rose water treats sore throat, helps relax the muscles of the throat and thus relieve shortness of breath.
The eyes. Rose water can be used as a drop of the eye to relieve many eye problems, such as: conjunctivitis, dry eye, inflammation of the tear sac, and white water (cataracts).
Injuries. Rose water treats burns, cuts that cause skin cuts, and scars.
Inflammation. Rose water can be used as an antiseptic to prevent infection and inflammation.
Mental state. Rose water can be inhaled to relieve tension, depression, stress and feelings of sadness.
Headaches. Inhaling rosewater relieves migraines and headaches.
Digestion. Drops of rose water help relieve swelling, gastric ulcers and constipation.
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