The year 2011 was truly and exciting time in Dinar-Land. The possibility of an RV of the IQD went hyperbolic when Dr. Shabibi, the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq addressed direct questions on the possibilities of an RD/RV of the Dinar.
He appeared optimistic yet never actually answered the questions. Little did we all know back then that we would still be here waiting for an RD/RV in 2023.
Does anyone here recall how all of the IQD currency dealers of the time would sell “Reserves” allowing one to put IQD on hold. It was like putting gifts on “layaway” at Walmart. Those were the Wild West days of the IQD RV.
During a discussion held at the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington, DC, in April 2011, Dr. Shabibi, the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) at that time, was questioned about the potential revaluation and redenomination of the Iraqi Dinar (IQD). However, Dr. Shabibi’s responses were notably vague and diplomatic, leaving much to be discerned from his answers.
When asked about the possibility of a revaluation, Dr. Shabibi avoided giving a direct response. He emphasized the importance of controlling inflation and maintaining price stability, noting that the current inflation rate in Iraq was around 5%. He mentioned that various factors, including trade, exports, imports, and balance of payments, influenced currency movement. Dr. Shabibi’s response revolved around the need to track inflation development and other relevant factors before determining any exchange rate movement or potential revaluation.
Regarding the redenomination of the currency, Dr. Shabibi also provided a diplomatic and passive answer. He downplayed the significance of removing three zeros from the currency, stating that it was primarily a measure to facilitate payments and ease counting. He highlighted the historical context of adding three zeros in the 1980s due to high inflation and mentioned that the current situation was different, with inflation under control and the exchange rate managed by the Central Bank. However, he acknowledged that implementing the redenomination required careful planning, including propaganda campaigns and education efforts, with the cooperation of the government and security forces.
It is worth noting that this event took place 12 years ago, and as of 2023, Iraq is still grappling with some of the key issues that Dr. Shabibi spoke about way back then. Yet much progress has certainly been made since then in regards to Iraq’s political, banking and economic reforms. But still, Iraq has yet to redenominate and/or revalue its currency.
See my previous post: Iraqi Finance Deputy: Iraq Not Ready for Currency RD/RV
Dr. Shabibi’s diplomatic and cautious approach to the questions may reflect the complexities and challenges surrounding these monetary decisions. The passage of time underscores the ongoing nature of the issues and the difficulties faced by Iraq in addressing them.
Key points and statistics mentioned by Dr. Shabibi:
IQD Currency Revaluation
- Revaluation depends on controlling inflation and maintaining price stability.
- The Central Bank closely monitors inflation, which has risen to around 5%.
- Factors affecting currency movement include trade, exports, imports, balance of payments, and development-related aspects.
- The government focuses more on its budget, while the Central Bank emphasizes inflation control.
- Exchange rate movement will be determined by tracking inflation development and other relevant factors.
IQD Currency Redenomination
- Redenomination aims to facilitate payments and ease counting, particularly for large figures.
- The decision to add three zeros in the 1980’s was driven by high inflation.
- Current conditions have changed, with inflation under control and the exchange rate managed by the Central Bank.
- Removing the three zeros requires careful implementation, including a propaganda campaign and extensive education efforts.
- Cooperation from the government and security forces is essential for successful redenomination.
My Simple Transcript of the Event (watch the video to get the full details)
- Date: April 19, 2011
- Location: US Chamber of Commerce, Washington, DC
Participant: With respect to the ongoing need for stability in Iraq and its exchange rate, we understand that there is a potential need for a revaluation of the currency to attract domestic and foreign investment. How far do you believe we are from a potential revaluation of the Iraqi currency?
Dr. Shabibi: The answer depends on various factors, particularly the extent to which we can continue controlling inflation. Maintaining price stability is our primary goal, and while there is currently a small inflation rate of around 5%, we are monitoring it closely. If inflation continues, we may need to reconsider the exchange rate and potential revaluation. Other factors that influence currency movement include trade, exports and imports, balance of payments, and other development-related aspects of the economy. However, the question of maintaining price stability is crucial, as it is not a major concern for other entities in the economy. We will track inflation development and other relevant factors to determine the appropriate exchange rate movement.
Participant: I’ve heard a report that Iraq is planning to cut three zeros off the currency, referred to as “redenomination.” Could you provide more information on this?
Dr. Shabibi: The cutting of three zeros should not be exaggerated. Redenomination aims to facilitate payments and ease of counting, especially when dealing with large figures. This decision was not made by a government decree, but rather due to the economic conditions in the 1980s, characterized by high inflation. However, the situation has changed significantly now, with inflation under control and the exchange rate managed by the Central Bank. The presence of zeros creates difficulties in managing the currency. Our plan is to remove the three zeros, but it requires careful implementation, including a propaganda campaign and extensive education efforts. The cooperation of the government and security forces is crucial in this process. We are committed to bringing about the redenomination, taking into consideration the monitoring of the exchange rate and other necessary measures.
Here’s the actual recorded event for you to hear what was said for yourself.
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