Wednesday, March 25, 2026

SANDY INGRAM: Iraqi Dinar vs Georgian Lari: How Countries Increase Currency Value and Economic Strength

Introduction: What Determines a Currency’s Value?

Understanding why some currencies grow stronger while others struggle is key for investors and Dinarians. In a recent breakdown, Sandy Ingram compares two very different countries: Georgia and Iraq.

Despite both facing economic challenges, Georgia has managed to build a stable and growing financial system, while Iraq continues to face obstacles in modernization and currency reform.

Georgia: A Young Nation with Strong Economic Progress

Georgia is a relatively young country that gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then, it has taken major steps toward global economic integration.

Key Highlights:

Lifestyle & Investment Appeal:

  • Low cost of living (rent under $500/month in coastal areas)
  • Real estate prices between $70,000–$90,000
  • Growing tourism sector and expat community
  • Popular for retirees and international investors

Featured Snippet:

“Georgia strengthened its currency by integrating into global markets, controlling inflation, and attracting international investment.”

Iraq: Rich History, Untapped Economic Potential

Iraq has one of the richest histories in the world, yet its economic potential remains largely underutilized.

Key Challenges:

  • Currency:  Iraqi Dinar
  • Ongoing political and economic instability
  • Limited integration into global financial systems
  • Weak banking participation among citizens

The Central Bank of Iraq is attempting modernization through:

  • Introduction of a digital dinar
  • Phasing out old banknotes

However, public resistance remains high, with many citizens reluctant to deposit money into banks.

The Core Issue: Trust in the Financial System

A major difference between the two countries is public trust:

  • In Georgia → People trust banks and participate in the economy
  • In Iraq → Many citizens avoid banks, limiting financial growth

Featured Snippet:

“A strong currency depends not just on policy, but on public trust in the financial system and willingness to participate in banking.”

Shared Challenge: Tax Collection Problems

Interestingly, both countries face a similar issue:

  • Weak tax collection systems
  • Limited government revenue
  • Reduced ability to fund infrastructure and growth

However, Georgia has still managed to grow despite this challenge, while Iraq continues to struggle.

Tourism & Investment: A Key Difference

Georgia:

  • Open to global tourism
  • Strong real estate market
  • Attractive lifestyle for foreigners
  • Visible wealth (luxury cars, modern cities)

Iraq:

  • Limited tourism due to safety concerns
  • Historical assets underutilized
  • Low foreign investment

Iraq is home to ancient civilizations like Babylon and holds deep religious significance, yet these advantages have not been fully leveraged economically.

Digital Currency vs Real Adoption

Iraq’s attempt to introduce a digital currency highlights another major gap:

  • Government pushing modernization
  • Citizens resisting change

Without public adoption, even advanced financial reforms may fail.

Key Takeaways

  • Georgia shows how integration and stability strengthen a currency
  • Iraq highlights how political and social challenges can delay progress
  • Trust, investment, and global participation are critical factors
  • Currency value is influenced by economics, governance, and psychology

Q&A: Quick Insights

Q1: Why is Georgia’s currency stronger than Iraq’s?
A: Georgia integrated into global markets, controlled inflation, and built investor confidence.

Q2: What is holding Iraq back?
A: Political instability, lack of trust in banks, and slow economic reforms.

Q3: Does Iraq have potential?
A: Yes—significant potential if stability and trust improve.

Q4: What role does tourism play?
A: A major one. Georgia benefits greatly, while Iraq has not fully tapped into it.

Conclusion: Can Iraq Follow Georgia’s Path?

The comparison between Georgia and Iraq highlights a powerful lesson:

👉 Currency strength is not just about resources—it’s about strategy, trust, and execution.

Georgia proves that even a young nation can build a strong economy with the right policies and global engagement. Iraq, on the other hand, still has the opportunity to unlock its vast potential—but only if it can overcome internal challenges.

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SANDY INGRAM: The IQD vs GLE: How Countries Increase Value of Their Currencies

Summary

This video by Sandy Ingram compares the currencies and economic conditions of two countries: Iraq and Georgia. Georgia, a nation less than 35 years old, gained independence from the Soviet Union on April 9, 1991, and has since integrated into the global economy with the support of international financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank. In contrast, Iraq struggles with economic modernization and currency reform despite its rich historical significance.

Key Insights and Comparisons

  • Georgia’s Background and Economy:

    • Georgia is a young country located between Turkey and Russia, along the Black Sea coast.
    • It gained independence in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
    • The Georgian currency, the Lari (GEL), has been traded on the forex market since 1995.
    • Georgia has achieved positive GDP growth and managed to curtail inflation since the mid-1990s.
    • The country faces a significant challenge in tax collection, a problem shared with Iraq.
    • The cost of living is low, with rental prices under $500 per month in coastal apartment hotels.
    • Georgia is becoming a popular destination for retirees and tourists, supported by vibrant city life, casinos, and a high number of luxury cars (Mercedes, BMW, Maserati).
    • Property prices for new apartments range from 70,000to90,000, many serving as combined residences and hotels.
    • The younger generation in Georgia identifies strongly with the independent nation rather than its Soviet past.

  • Iraq’s Economic and Currency Challenges:

    • Iraq has not yet fully transitioned into a stable democracy or a forward-thinking economic system.
    • The Central Bank of Iraq is attempting to introduce a new digital Iraqi Dinar (IQD) and phase out old banknotes.
    • However, the Iraqi population is resistant, refusing to deposit money into banks, indicating distrust or instability.
    • Iraq shares the tax collection issue with Georgia, limiting governmental strength and growth.
    • Despite its historical and cultural significance as the birthplace of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and ancient civilizations like Babylon, Iraq has yet to capitalize on these assets to attract global investment or tourism.
    • Iraq’s economic potential remains largely unrealized due to ongoing safety and political challenges.

Timeline of Key Events and Currency Developments

YearEventCountry
1991Georgia gains independence from Soviet UnionGeorgia
1995Georgian Lari (GEL) introduced to forex marketGeorgia
Not specifiedIraq attempts to phase out old IQD and launch digital currency Iraq

Economic and Currency Data Comparison

AspectGeorgiaIraq
CurrencyGeorgian Lari (GEL)Iraqi Dinar (IQD)
Forex Market Entry1995Not specified
GDP GrowthPositive growth since 1995Not specified / Uncertain
Inflation ControlCurtailed inflationNot specified
Tax CollectionProblematicProblematic
Digital Currency InitiativeNoYes, but resisted by population
Cost of Living (Rent)<$500/month in coastal apartmentsNot specified
Real Estate Prices70,000–90,000 for new apartments/hotelsNot specified
International InvestmentPresent, tourism and retirees contributeLimited due to safety and trust issues

Cultural and Social Observations

  • Older generations in Georgia maintain strong cultural ties to Russia, while younger generations identify more with independent Georgia.
  • Georgia’s openness to international tourists and retirees contrasts with Iraq’s current instability and resistance to economic modernization.
  • The video highlights the geopolitical tension near Georgia, referencing President Putin’s avoidance of his Black Sea estate due to drone threats from Ukraine, illustrating regional instability.

Conclusions

  • Georgia represents a successful example of a young nation integrating into the global economy despite post-Soviet challenges.
  • Both Georgia and Iraq share challenges in tax collection, which affects government strength.
  • Iraq’s failure to adopt digital currency and modern banking reflects deeper issues of trust and political instability.
  • Georgia attracts international capital through low living costs, quality of life, and openness to tourism, while Iraq’s rich history remains underutilized economically.
  • The question posed is whether Iraq could attract visitors and investment if safety and political stability improve.

This comparative analysis underscores the importance of governance, economic reforms, and international integration in shaping a country’s currency stability and economic growth.

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SANDY INGRAM: Iraqi Dinar Pressure Explained: What the Central Bank of Iraq Says About the Currency Gap

Introduction: Why the Iraqi Dinar Looks Weak Right Now

The Iraqi dinar has recently come under scrutiny as the gap between the official exchange rate and the street rate continues to widen. Many observers have been quick to blame the Central Bank of Iraq, but new insights shared by Sandy Ingram suggest the situation is far more complex.

In this post, we break down what’s really happening with the dinar, why the Central Bank is pushing back on criticism, and what it all means for currency watchers and Dinarians.

The Growing Gap: Official Rate vs Street Rate

One of the biggest concerns right now is the difference between:

  • The official exchange rate set by the government
  • The parallel (street) market rate where people actually buy U.S. dollars

Despite regulations discouraging dollar use, demand for United States Dollar remains strong across Iraq.

Featured Snippet:

“The gap between Iraq’s official exchange rate and the street rate is driven largely by supply, demand, and market behavior—not necessarily central bank policy.”

The Central Bank of Iraq Responds

The Central Bank of Iraq has made it clear:

👉 “This is not a policy failure.”

According to the bank:

  • The dinar’s pressure is not caused by internal monetary policy
  • External factors are driving instability
  • Market behavior plays a major role in exchange rate fluctuations

In short, the bank is shifting the focus from policy decisions to broader economic forces.

What’s Really Causing the Pressure?

Sandy Ingram highlights several key factors influencing the dinar:

1. Political Tension

Uncertainty in Iraq’s political environment can reduce confidence in the local currency.

2. Trade Challenges

Import-heavy demand increases the need for foreign currency, especially dollars.

3. High Demand for Dollars

People continue to buy dollars for:

  • Imports
  • Savings
  • Financial security during uncertain times

Supply & Demand: The Core Issue

At the heart of the situation is a simple economic principle:

👉 Supply and demand

When people rush to buy United States Dollar:

  • Local dollar supply becomes limited
  • The price of dollars increases on the street
  • The dinar appears weaker in comparison

Featured Snippet:

“When dollars become scarce in Iraq, their price rises in the street market, making the dinar appear weaker even if the official rate remains unchanged.”

Market Psychology: The Hidden Driver

Beyond economics, psychology plays a crucial role:

  • Fear or uncertainty → Increased dollar buying
  • Expectations of instability → Lower confidence in dinar
  • Herd behavior → Accelerated currency pressure

From the Central Bank’s perspective, this behavior is a key reason for the widening exchange rate gap.

Is This a Policy Failure or Market Reaction?

According to the Central Bank of Iraq:

  • The exchange rate gap is not proof of failure
  • It reflects temporary imbalances in the market
  • It is driven by external pressures and public behavior

This distinction is important for understanding the bigger picture of Iraq’s financial system.

What This Means for Dinarians

For those following the Iraqi dinar closely:

  • Short-term fluctuations may not reflect long-term value
  • Market instability can create misleading signals
  • Understanding fundamentals is key

This perspective helps separate emotional reactions from economic reality .

Key Takeaways

  • The dinar’s weakness is linked to market demand for dollars
  • The Central Bank denies responsibility for the exchange rate gap
  • Political, trade, and psychological factors are major drivers
  • Supply and demand—not policy alone—are shaping current conditions

Q&A: Quick Insights

Q1: Why is the Iraqi dinar weakening?
A: Mainly due to high demand for U.S. dollars and market pressure, not just central bank policy.

Q2: Is the Central Bank responsible?
A: The Central Bank of Iraq says no—it points to external and market-driven factors.

Q3: Why do people in Iraq buy dollars?
A: For imports, savings, and protection against uncertainty.

Q4: Does this mean the dinar is failing?
A: Not necessarily. The gap reflects short-term supply and demand dynamics.

Conclusion: Understanding the Bigger Picture

The latest explanation from the Central Bank of Iraq provides important clarity. The pressure on the Iraqi dinar is not simply a policy issue—it’s the result of complex interactions between economics, politics, and human behavior.

As Sandy Ingram explains, understanding these dynamics is essential for anyone following the currency. Rather than reacting to headlines, Dinarians should focus on the broader financial landscape and long-term trends.

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#IraqiDinar #DinarUpdate #CBI #ForexNews #CurrencyMarket #FinancialEducation #Dinarians #MiddleEastEconomy #USDemand #GlobalFinance

Sandy Ingram 

  Let me explain what's really going to on with the Iraqi dinar right now because a lot of people are pointing fingers at the Central Bank of Iraq.  The bank is saying, 'Hold on.  This isn't on us.' 

 Here's the situation.  The dinar has been looking weak lately, especially when you compare the official exchange rate to what people are paying on the streets of Iraq for the US dollars.  I know they are not supposed to be using dollars but they are.  That gap between the official rate and the market rate has been growing... People want to know who's responsible...The Central Bank of Iraq says the problem isn't caused by the bank's policy.  Instead, they believe the pressure on the dinar is coming from...political tension, trade issues and demand for dollars inside of Iraq.

 In other words, the bank is saying the currency isn't sliding because of what they're doing but because of what's happening in the wider economy. 

 They're also pointing out that when people rush to buy dollars, whether for imports, savings or fear, that creates a shortage of dollars locally.  When dollars get scarce, price goes up on the street which makes their dinar look weaker, even if the official rate hasn't changed.  From the CBI's POV, the exchange rate gap isn't proof of policy failure, it is a supply and demand issue plus market psychology.  When people lose confidence or expect trouble they grab dollars...We appreciate the CBI explaining this..


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🔥 While Everyone Watches the Conflict… Iraq Is Advancing Key Reforms

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Iraq Summons US, Iran Envoys, Moves To UN After Strikes

 Iraq Summons US, Iran Envoys, Moves To UN After Strikes

 Shafaq News- Baghdad   Iraq is to summon the US chargé d’affaires and the Iranian ambassador and file a complaint with the UN Security Council over recent strikes on its territory.

 The Ministerial Council for National Security authorized, on Tuesday, the foreign ministry to deliver formal protest notes to both diplomats over attacks that hit Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) sites in Al-Anbar and Peshmerga positions in Erbil, according to military spokesman Sabah al-Numan.

 The council also directed the ministry to prepare a formal complaint to the Security Council, calling for an end to “violations of Iraqi sovereignty.”

 The diplomatic move follows an earlier decision by the same council to authorize the PMF and security forces to respond to attacks on military sites.

 The escalation comes after an 

airstrike on a PMF position at Habbaniyah base in Al-Anbar that killed and wounded dozens. The PMF said its Al-Anbar operations commander, Saad Duwai, was killed along with 14 fighters in the strike, which it attributed to the United States.

 In northern Iraq, Kurdish authorities reported 36 casualties among Peshmerga forces after ballistic missiles struck military positions in Erbil province. https://shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Iraq-summons-US-Iran-envoys-moves-to-UN-after-strikes


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COFFEE WITH MARKZ: Is the Global Currency Revaluation (RV) Coming Soon?

 Introduction: The Anticipation of the RV

Good morning, Dinarians! The buzz around the Global Currency Revaluation (RV) continues to grow, and enthusiasts worldwide are watching for any signs of movement. In recent calls, MarkZ (MZ) shared his insights on currency updates, redemption center operations, bond rumors, and international financial developments that could impact the timing of the RV.

This blog post dives deep into the latest discussions, Q&A highlights, and critical insights from MZ’s updates. Whether you’re a seasoned Dinari or new to the community, this post will give you clarity on the current state of the RV and what might happen in the weeks ahead.

Redemption Centers & Wealth Management Updates

One common question from members is about redemption center staff and their readiness for the RV. MarkZ shared:

  • Redemption center staff are still present but not actively processing transactions; many are temporarily working in wealth management.
  • Wealth managers have been on call for multiple consecutive weekends, indicating that preparations for the RV are ongoing behind the scenes.

Featured Snippet: “Redemption center staff are currently working in wealth management, and wealth managers have been on call for several weekends, indicating RV readiness preparations are ongoing.”

Bond, Banking, and Group Rumors

MarkZ revealed that both bond and banking contacts are sharing promising updates:

This suggests that asset-backed currencies may be prioritized for currency holders, distinct from the funds used to pay historic bonds.

International Financial Insights

Some critical international updates shared in the call include:

  • Iraq: Post-US-Iran conflict, Iraq faces financial pressures, but leadership changes could align with US expectations.
  • Al Sudan & UN missions: International coalition efforts in Iraq remain on track, with most personnel already withdrawn.
  • Argentina: Discovery of new copper, gold, and silver deposits could increase national currency value over time. 

Q&A Highlight:
Q: “Will Iran become a financial partner to Iraq?”
A: “It could be a positive partnership if the right government is in place.” – MarkZ

US Financial Status & Implications

A key point discussed was the US Treasury declaring insolvency, covered by Fortune Magazine. Implications include:

  1. Insolvency → Bankruptcy
  2. Bankruptcy → Reorganization
  3. Reorganization → Potential asset-backed monetary system

MarkZ suggests this chain could pave the way for a global currency revaluation, aligning with the hopes of currency holders worldwide.

What Dinarians Are Asking

Here are some recurring member questions from recent calls:

  1. RV Timing: “Is the Golden Age starting soon?”
  2. Redemption Centers: “Are they ready?”
  3. Banking Activity: “Are new Chase and J.P. Morgan centers preparing for the RV?”
  4. Rates: “When will currency holders know the value?”

MarkZ Response Summary: Values won’t be known until currency holders reach redemption centers, but April appears to be a key month.

Key Takeaways

  • Redemption centers and wealth managers are preparing behind the scenes.
  • Bonds may finalize by early April; banking contacts anticipate mid-April RV events.
  • International asset shifts (Vatican, Argentina) suggest a move toward asset-backed currencies.
  • The US financial system is under stress, supporting the case for a global revaluation.
  • April 1 marks the start of the second quarter and could be a turning point.

Q&A: Quick Insights for Dinarians

Q1: When will currency holders see the RV?
A1: Exact timing unknown; likely between April 2–15, 2026.

Q2: Are redemption centers operational?
A2: Yes, staff are ready but many are temporarily working in wealth management.

Q3: How does US insolvency affect the RV?
A3: It could accelerate the transition to an asset-backed currency system.

Q4: What about international assets?
A4: Vatican purchases and Argentina’s new deposits may influence currency values and stability.

Conclusion

The latest MarkZ updates provide hope that the long-awaited Global Currency Revaluation is approaching. While exact dates remain uncertain, April 2026 appears pivotal. Dinarians should stay informed, monitor redemption centers, and continue engaging with community discussions for real-time insights.

MarkZ Disclaimer: Please consider everything on this call as my opinion. People who take notes may not capture everything, so it’s best to watch the full video for context. Always consult a financial professional for decisions.

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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 Dinarians around the planet!

Member: RV There Yet? I sure wish the “Golden Age” would start soon. 

Member: Clarity Act…Let’s get it done!!!!

Member: You used to give updates on redemption center staff and whether they are working or not?

MZ: I still do. They are still there….just twiddling their thumbs. During the week many of them work in Wealth management.

Member: On Friday, you said that wealth managers were on call for about the fifth weekend in a row

MZ: I am hearing some interesting stuff from both bond and group contacts. Bond rumors, Bank rumors and group rumors. I think its fantastic stuff

MZ: The overwhelming majority of my bond people are telling me that they will be done between now and April 2nd. 

MZ: The overwhelming majority of my groups and banking contacts believe they will go between the 2nd of April and the 15th of April. I don’t know the timing but that is what they are being told. 

Member: Sure hope we currency folks go sometime during those times. 

MZ: It appears that the Vatican is the buyer of some of the Historic assets. It does not make sense to me but maybe they are buying bonds and historic assets because they know fiat is about to crash? I am hearing this from half a dozen different sources right now. 

Member: I heard the funds to pay historic bonds are paid in Fiat Dollars ... Currency holders will be paid in asset backed Currency ... real money ... they're from different sources ...

MZ: “Iraq after the US-Iran War: Financial pressure and harsher economic testing” What will Iraq look like after this conflict is over? There is still leadership in Iraq tied to Iran. 

Member: Iran could be a great partner to Iraq and the whole Mid East if the people get the right government

MZ: “Al Sudan: The mission of the international coalition in Iraq will end on time” He wants to reassure us that the UN support mission still ends in September and everything is still on track. The vast majority is already out. 

Member: Jon Dowling said that Trump gave Iraq a 2 week deadline to get their government seated or face heavy sanctions. if that is the case that is around the first few days of April

MZ: “The Treasury just declared the US insolvent and the media missed it” Thisarticle appeared in Fortune Magazine. Andy and I have been telling you this. The US is absolutely broke. We owe 5 times more than our GDP. We are not getting out of this without a reset. 

Member: US Treasury Declares Insolvency: Insolvency Leads To Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Leads To Re-organization, Re-organization Leads To A Sound Asset Backed Monetary System: A Global Currency Revaluation

Member: Mark-insolvency has to be fixed. Come on Trump…end this thing. Time for the Republic.

Member: New chase bank in my area Ohio… has both Chase and J.p. morgan wealth centers. Are they ready for RV? is that what is going on with new places?

Member: Had another bank manager tell me yesterday that massive charges are taking place and she can't keep up

Member: Argentina discovered additional Copper Deposit in 2025. These deposit also contain Gold,Silver Not sure how that translates to increase in their currency value.

Member: any updates on rates?

Member: No one knows the value of any currency until we get to the Redemption Centers.

Member: One more week of March then we are going into April. I hope we will get Nesara/St. Germaine Trust  before Easter on the 5th.

Member: April 1 starts the second quarter. 

Member: Thank you MarkZ and the best Mods on the internet !  I hope you all have a blessed day today. Dr. Jay Caprietta joins the stream today. Please listen to the replay for his information

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Redemption Centers Activate: Group Exchanges Signal High-Value Dinar & Dong Expectations

 

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Iraq between war and economic fragility: The Al-Azm Alliance calls for political realism

 Iraq between war and economic fragility: The Al-Azm Alliance calls for political realism - Urgent

Baghdad Today – Baghdad    Ghanem Al-Aifan, a leader in the Al-Azm Alliance, stressed on Tuesday (March 24, 2026) the need to distinguish between the Iraqi leadership and the government, emphasizing that the government is aware of the limits of its capabilities in light of the current political and economic reality.

Al-Aifan explained to Baghdad Today that “the Iraqi economy is subject to many challenges, in addition to internal divisions and the inability of the military establishment to officially engage in any war, which pushes the government to strive earnestly to keep the specter of confrontation away from the country.”

He added that "the government succeeded in managing what he described as the '12-day war,' but its repercussions were heavy on Iraq as a result of the involvement of some factions in the course of the crisis according to ideological positions."

Al-Aifan called for "the necessity of avoiding a repeat of the mistakes of the previous regime, which confronted the international community with slogans only, which led to disastrous results," noting that "mature countries rely on the principle of political realism, not revolutionary rhetoric, by realizing the extent of their capabilities and not being swept away by ideology."

He pointed out that "the current stage requires the activation of institutional work in a real way, and the imposition of state control over the security file, while keeping Iraq neutral from the possibility of slipping into any conflict, taking into account the fragility of the economic situation in the country."  https://baghdadtoday.news/295745-.html


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JEFF: Presidential Vote Ahead, Government Formation Progress & What It Means for RV

Iraq Parliament Update: Presidential Vote Ahead, Government Formation Progress & What It Means for RV Introduction: A Critical Moment fo...