THE CENTRAL BANK OF IRAQ ANNOUNCES THE COMPLETION OF A PIVOTAL STEP IN REFORMING THE BANKING SECTOR AND EXPANDING FOREIGN TRANSACTIONS.
The Central Bank of Iraq announced on Thursday that it has completed the main step in the comprehensive reform process for commercial and Islamic banks and branches of foreign banks operating in Iraq, after completing the submission of the required documents for review in accordance with the “minimum requirements”.
The bank explained in a statement received by “Al-Eqtisad News” that the minimum requirements included choosing one of the following three paths: continuing in the market as independent banking institutions, merging with other banking institutions, or exiting the market.
The Central Bank of Iraq confirmed that all Iraqi banks submitted the required documents according to the path they chose, which allows the bank to assess the level of compliance of each bank with the minimum requirements.
He explained that the coming months will see the addressing of any gaps or observations identified during the evaluation process, and that banks will work to complete the requirements for full compliance with banking reform standards.
As part of strengthening the role of private banks in supporting the economy, the Central Bank of Iraq announced the launch of a new initiative to expand the banks’ ability to support international trade for their clients. Banks that meet specific criteria, as assessed by the Central Bank, will be allowed to resume cross-border transactions and issue letters of credit in several international currencies, including the euro, the UAE dirham, the Chinese yuan, the Jordanian dinar, and others.
The bank indicated that this step complements the reform path it is leading to enhance confidence in the future of the Iraqi economy, deepen the global integration of the financial sector, and support sustainable economic growth in Iraq.
Iraq Dinar Revaluation: Trade Momentum Signals Currency Shift Could Be Near
Recent commentary in the dinar investment community suggests that Iraq is positioning itself aggressively for international trade expansion, a move many analysts believe is directly tied to a potential revaluation (RV) of the Iraqi dinar.
According to insights shared by Jeff, Iraq appears to be “ramping up trade” and aligning its financial systems in preparation for going international. If accurate, this positioning could indicate that Iraq is laying the structural groundwork necessary for a rate adjustment.
Let’s break down what this could mean.
🌍 Iraq’s Trade Expansion: A Precursor to Currency Revaluation?
For any nation transitioning to a stronger international currency position, trade integration is critical.
Iraq’s economic strategy appears focused on:
Expanding cross-border trade agreements
Strengthening banking infrastructure
Modernizing financial compliance standards
Aligning with global regulatory systems
The key trigger many are watching? The potential removal of remaining OFAC sanctions by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) operates under the Treasury Department and enforces economic sanctions. The final removal of restrictions would be a major signal that Iraq is fully cleared for unrestricted international financial participation.
🏦 What Happens If OFAC Sanctions Are Lifted?
If the United States removes the final OFAC-related limitations:
Iraq would gain broader international banking access
Cross-border USD transactions would become smoother
Global correspondent banking relationships could expand
The dinar could transition toward full international status
Many believe this would align with a potential rate adjustment by the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI), the governing authority responsible for Iraq’s monetary policy.
While no official revaluation announcement has been made, observers note that Iraq appears “extremely close” to international readiness.
💱 Rate Change Timing: How Close Is It?
Speculation continues regarding timing. However, historically speaking, currency revaluations typically occur when:
Trade balances strengthen
Foreign reserves are stable
International compliance standards are met
Sanction risks are eliminated
If Iraq has indeed “put its ducks in a row,” the infrastructure for international engagement may already be in place.
That said, investors should remain cautious: until formal announcements are made by the Central Bank of Iraq or recognized financial institutions, all projections remain speculative.
🏦 Banks vs. Redemption Centers: What Investors Should Know
One of the most debated topics in the dinar community is where exchanges would occur if a revaluation happens.
❓ Question: Banks or Redemption Centers?
Jeff strongly advises leaning toward banks, not so-called “redemption centers.”
🚫 The Redemption Center Theory
The “redemption center” narrative suggests:
Special private facilities
Exclusive appointment-only exchanges
Higher negotiated rates
NDA (non-disclosure agreement) requirements
However, there is no verified evidence from recognized banking authorities supporting this structure.
Redemption centers are not publicly recognized by:
The U.S. Department of the Treasury
The Central Bank of Iraq
Major global banks
This has led many analysts to view the concept as potentially misleading or scam-related.
✅ Why Banks Are the More Logical Option
If a currency revalues and becomes internationally recognized:
Major banks handle foreign exchange
Rates are posted publicly
Exchanges follow standard banking protocols
Transactions are regulated and transparent
Foreign currency exchange is a normal banking function.
If the Iraqi dinar becomes internationally tradable at a new rate, it would logically move through existing global banking channels.
🔎 Featured Snippet Section
What would trigger the Iraqi dinar revaluation?
A potential Iraqi dinar revaluation would likely require full international trade readiness, removal of OFAC sanctions, strong foreign reserves, and official action by the Central Bank of Iraq.
Are redemption centers legitimate for dinar exchange?
There is no confirmed evidence from recognized banking authorities supporting the use of private redemption centers. Most experts recommend using established banks for currency exchange.
Is Iraq close to going international?
Recent commentary suggests Iraq has significantly improved its trade positioning and financial infrastructure, indicating it may be nearing full international participation.
📈 Key Takeaways for Dinar Investors
Iraq is increasing trade alignment and financial readiness
OFAC sanction removal would be a major milestone
The Central Bank of Iraq controls any official rate change
No. As of now, there has been no formal rate change announcement from the Central Bank of Iraq.
Q: Would the U.S. need to approve a revaluation?
Not directly. However, removal of OFAC sanctions by the U.S. Treasury would impact Iraq’s international financial freedom.
Q: Should investors prepare for redemption centers?
There is no official validation for redemption centers. Investors should verify information directly through recognized banks.
Q: What is the safest exchange method?
Using established banks that handle foreign currency exchange services.
📣 Final Thoughts
The narrative that Iraq is positioning itself for international trade participation is compelling. If the structural groundwork is complete, a currency shift could theoretically follow.
However, prudent investors should rely on:
Official banking channels
Confirmed government announcements
Recognized financial institutions
Speculation fuels interest — but verified data protects capital.
They're ramping up trade. They're positioning trade towards being ready to revalue the currency. When they flip the revaluation switch and they go international and the US takes the last remaining OFAC sanctions off the country of Iraq, they already have all of their ducks in a row to go international. They're extremely close to going international. The rate change is not that far away.
Question: "Banks or redemption centers?"
The whole redemption center theory is more of a scam to me. I would strongly steer away from 'redemption center' type information. I would lean more towards banks.
IF HIS NOMINATION FALTERS, MALIKI PLEDGES TO RETURN THE PREMIERSHIP TO SUDANI.
The head of the Reconstruction and Development bloc, Bahaa al-Araji, stated that the leader of the State of Law coalition, Nouri al-Maliki, pledged to return the premiership to the caretaker Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, if his nomination does not proceed.
Al-Araji said in a televised interview followed by Al-Sa’a Network, “One of the MPs asked Al-Maliki: If you do not get the premiership, what will you do? He replied:
Earlier, the Reconstruction and Development Coalition, headed by Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, decided to review its position on conceding to Nouri al-Maliki regarding the nomination for the premiership.
The coalition stated in a statement received by Al-Sa’a Network, quoting the head of its bloc, Bahaa Al-Araji, that “supporting the nomination of Al-Maliki was aimed at ending the political stalemate,” noting that “this path is facing rejection within the national sphere and regional and international objection, which necessitates a reassessment of the tools and mechanisms that guarantee the achievement of the desired goal.
During the latest MarkZ call, Dinarians received updates about the upcoming RV (revaluation) timing, Iraq political shifts, and banking activity—or the lack thereof. While the information is opinion-based and should not replace professional financial advice, it provides insight into ongoing preparations and signals in the RV process.
February or Early March: The RV Target
MarkZ Opinion: He still feels confident that February or early March remains the target for the RV release.
Quiet Market Signals: Many intel providers and banking contacts have gone silent, suggesting preparations are underway, possibly to align with the final exchange processes.
Featured Snippet: “MarkZ confirms that February or early March remains the target for the RV, although market and banking activity have gone quiet as preparations continue.”
Banking & Bond Silence
MarkZ highlighted unusual quietness on the banking and bond fronts:
Wealth management contacts are hesitant to discuss timing, likely waiting for official instructions.
Possible currency exchange offers, such as $59,600 for 1 million dong, are still under review, and meetings may be rescheduled.
This silence may indicate that financial institutions are “queued up” for final instructions, ensuring no one misses the opportunity.
Iraq Updates: Political Maneuvers
According to MarkZ:
Trump Envoy Activity: Secret meetings with Iraqi factions are ongoing to reduce Iranian influence and prepare the government for reforms.
Sudani Coalition Pressure: The coalition is pushing for constitutional actions to finalize the government, likely leading to Sudani’s confirmation as Prime Minister.
Parliament Seating & RV: Members note that some processes, like revaluation, may be tied to Iraq’s parliament being seated and the government fully formed.
Google Discover Highlight: “Iraq political updates show Sudani’s coalition applying pressure to complete government formation, reducing Iranian influence ahead of the RV.”
Frank26 Insight: Banking Programs
Frank26’s recent bank story provides context for international currency handling:
Some banks, like in Canada, are only processing IQD and not VND for special programs like “Oil for Dinar.”
The VND exchange is expected to be straightforward at the new rate, without special requirements.
Communication & Member Support
1-800 Numbers & Updates: MarkZ indicated that RV updates may be posted on the official website and emailed in daily recaps.
Intel Transparency: All verified sources will share updates so that members do not miss key information.
Q&A: Key Takeaways from the MarkZ Call
Q1: Is February still the RV target? A: Yes, MarkZ believes February or early March is the target window.
Q2: Why is it so quiet everywhere? A: Banks, bonds, and intel contacts are likely waiting for final instructions to ensure readiness and fairness in the exchange.
Q3: How does Iraq’s political situation affect the RV? A: Completion of government formation and reduction of Iranian influence may be prerequisites for official processes, like currency release.
Q4: What about VND vs IQD exchanges? A: IQD may have special programs for coalition participants, while VND exchanges are expected to occur at the new rate without extra hurdles.
Q5: Where will official RV updates be shared? A: Updates are expected on the official website and in daily email recaps; all verified sources will provide information.
Disclaimer
Please Note: All information discussed in this post reflects MarkZ’s opinion. It is intended for general and educational purposes only. Consult a professional before making any financial, legal, or investment decisions.
Final Thoughts
While the process remains quiet and discreet, signals from banking silence, Iraqi political developments, and coalition preparations indicate that the RV is progressing. Members are advised to remain observant, patient, and informed.
MarkZ Disclaimer: Please consider everything on this call as my opinion. People who take notes do not catch everything and its best to watch the video so that you get everything in context. Be sure to consult a professional for any financial decisions
Member: Good morning Mark. Mods and all fellow Dinarians from around the Cosmos!!!
Member: My initials are RV. I’m having a strange sensation that I need to be released!!!
Member: Is February still the goal to release the RV?
MZ: I still think February or early March is still the goal. I still feel very good about it.
Member: Why the heck is it so quiet everywhere????
Member: Many Intel providers have been told to zip it.
MZ: I wonder who told them to zip it? Is this coming from a source that knows anything…or from a source who does not want to answer anything?
MZ: (From Wednesday) On the bond side its dead quiet. On the banking side….my contacts in Wealth Management have gone very quiet. When you ask them anything on timing or what they have been told they go dead silent. Maybe they are getting que’d up and possibly getting some details. But nobody wants to lose their chance at the trough. This is just a guess
MZ: (From Thursday) Quiet on the bond front. I am trying to find out what is going on.
Was the possible exchange from a person that was offered $59,600 for a million dong still happening? Is the meeting still on? Is it not on? I am still trying to find out some details. The meeting was supposed to occur tomorrow.
MZ: In Iraq: (From Wednesday) “Trumps Envoy held secret meetings with parties affiliated with Iraqi factions mediated by the government to disarm” So Mark Sayova is there and they have been working quietly behind the scenes for weeks to get things done. They are still removing that Iranian influence.
MZ: (From Thursday ) “Sudani coalition threatens Constitutional escalation” This is a push to get the government sat and to get things done. The pressure is on to get the President and Prime Minister done by early next week. It is looking like it will be Sudani.
Member: the rumor is that the parliament has to be seated before Iraq revalues?
Member: The world is in chaos, people need help, it’s time to RV. Iraq has become irrelevant in this process. Just leave them behind
Member: Frank 26 had a bank story for a guy in Canada that says their bank only was interested in IQD not VND….
MZ: That makes sense for the “Oil for Dinar” program for coalition forces on the dinar…..IMO the VND will be just a simple exchange at the new rate…..so this makes sense to me. IMO they will still handle the VND….just no special hoops to jump through.
Member: Will 1-800 # be in a separate email from dinar recaps or within their daily email ?
Member: I believe they said it would be posted on their website for all to see…..and possibly be emailed in their usual daily emails to members. But all intel people will be posting it….you will not miss it.
Member: I hope everyone is have a great and blessed week. Thank you again for everything you do for us Mark
Dr. Scott joins the stream today. Please listen to replay for his information and opinions
THE CONTENT IN THIS PODCAST IS FOR GENERAL & EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY&NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE ANY PROFESSIONAL, FINANCIAL OR LEGAL ADVICE. PLEASE CONSIDER EVERYTHING DISCUSSED IN MARKZ’S OPINION ONLY
Note from PDK: Please listen to the replay for all the details and entire stream….I do not transcribe political opinions, medical opinions or many guests on this stream……just RV/currency related topics.
MP KAZEM AL-SHAMMARI: WHEN OBAMA CHOSE YOU INSTEAD OF ALLAWI, WASN’T THAT DICTATED? AND NINETY PERCENT OF THE FRAMEWORK BACKED OUT OF YOU.
(Mnt Goat: Why in 2010 and not in 2026? This article goes back to the 2010 election when the Obama administration pressured Iraq to select Maliki for a second term. Was this not pressure from a foreign country in their elections just like now with pressure from Trump. What’s the difference? The difference is Obama was from a pro-Iranian US policy to one now that is anti-Iranian with Trump. This is yet another indication that the Obama administration was corrupt and complicit in the corruption of Iran in Iraq and the funds through the currency auctions that were stolen and sent to Iran. Remember also Obama pulled all American troops out of Iraq. This set the stage for ISIS, the cancellation of the reinstatement in 2012-2013. Oh… please stop worshiping Obama as the TRUTH is now coming out about so much of his corruption with the so-called Biden administration. Obama is a Muslim not just pro-Muslim. His eight years was a part of the Muslim infiltration into the US and the attempt to make Muslim the national religion of the US. Yes, the TRUTH always eventually comes out. We only hope its not too late to stop it. )
MP Kazem Al-Shammari, from the Services Alliance, said that he remembers the days when he represented the Iraqi List, which won the most votes in 2010, when the Obama administration exerted pressure and sent its Vice President Biden to Baghdad to push for Iyad Allawi’s withdrawal and to grant Nouri Al-Maliki a second term.
Al-Shammari appealed to the leader of the State of Law coalition to “consider the higher interest of the country” and withdraw from the nomination in the face of Trump’s pressure.
Kazem Al-Shammari said: “The memories have passed before me now, and what we are experiencing today takes us back to 2010, when the American administration announced the same position but in the opposite direction. At that time, the Obama administration wanted Maliki, and sent Vice President Biden to Baghdad to put pressure on the Iraqi List, which won 91 seats. Biden insisted at that time that Maliki be the Prime Minister.”
He continued: Weren’t those “dictates”? I was a member of parliament in the Iraqi List and I lived through those details, and I wonder today why those interventions are not called dictates while today’s situation is described in this way?
At that time, we accepted the withdrawal of “Iraqiya” despite being the largest bloc, and that was to avert problems and achieve the national interest, because America wanted Maliki, so we said “that’s it,” and we respected the international necessity to protect the homeland, even though the will of the people was with “Iraqiya.”
He continued: “Today, this same US administration is warning that if Maliki assumes the presidency, sanctions will be imposed on the Central Bank, Iraqi funds will be frozen, SOMO (State Oil Marketing Organization) will be penalized, and other harsh economic measures will be taken. The same concerns that led us to accept in 2010 are now leading us to reject this. The country’s best interests dictate that we steer clear of a crisis we cannot handle and are incapable of confronting.”
He continued: “As for within the coordination framework, after some of them nominated al-Maliki, now about 90% of them have withdrawn, if the percentage has not reached 100%, and the State of Law is aware of this.”