Geopolitics
Russia and Iran have reportedly formalized a strategic partnership through a treaty that covers defense, counterterrorism, energy, and more, amidst ongoing U.S. diplomatic efforts with both nations. This development comes as President Trump seeks to end the war in Ukraine and negotiate a new nuclear deal with Iran. The partnership could complicate these negotiations, given the U.S.’s adversarial stance towards both countries.
In Romania, nationalist leader George Simion has reportedly surged to the lead in the presidential race with 35% support, causing concern within the EU. His campaign has criticized foreign embassies for interference, signaling a potential shift towards nationalist policies in the country. Meanwhile, in the Vatican, the death of Pope Francis at age 88 has set the stage for a conclave to elect his successor. Cardinal Robert Sarah, a potential candidate, has expressed views against mass migration and the perceived Islamization of Europe, views echoed by Bishop Athanasius Schneider, who has reportedly gained support among some Catholics for his traditionalist stance. However, there are also many within the Church and broader society who view migration as an opportunity for cultural exchange and growth, in line with Pope Francis’s teachings.
In other news, the World Economic Forum’s new Chairman has stirred controversy due to his past advocating for the privatization of water, arguing it should not be considered a fundamental human right, a stance that has drawn criticism from NGOs and others who see water access as a basic human necessity. However, some argue that market mechanisms can lead to better water management and distribution, potentially benefiting even the poorest communities through targeted subsidies.
Economy
The global financial landscape is undergoing a significant shift with gold being re-monetized as a Tier 1 asset under Basel III regulations. This reclassification, set to be fully implemented by June 30, 2025, will reportedly allow gold to be used as collateral by banks, transforming it from a mere store of value to an active component of liquidity. This change is not driven by inflation fears but by structural changes in the financial system, positioning gold as a backbone of global finance once again. Meanwhile, financial markets are reportedly grappling with a liquidity crisis, with about 77% of global lending now being collateral-based. This reliance on collateral, particularly in the repo market, could potentially lead to refinancing crises if liquidity dries up, a recurring issue due to the ever-growing burden of global debt. However, some financial experts argue that the financial system has evolved with mechanisms to handle such crises better than in the past.
US Politics
Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo faces a criminal referral to the Department of Justice for allegedly lying under oath about his administration’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis in nursing homes. The referral, resubmitted by House Oversight Chairman James Comer, accuses Cuomo of violating federal law by making false statements to Congress regarding his involvement in a report that downplayed the impact of his policies, which led to significant loss of life. Cuomo has defended his actions, claiming the referral is politically motivated, while some argue that his policies were in line with CDC guidelines at the time.
In another development, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is embroiled in controversy over alleged leaks from within the Pentagon, with reports suggesting an internal push to replace him with Senator Tom Cotton, potentially to escalate tensions with Iran. However, President Trump and Hegseth are reportedly aligned in their preference for diplomacy over military action.
Environment
In Iowa, Rob Fox, a small-scale farmer and communication manager for the Pesticide Action and Agroecology Network (PAN), has been actively opposing proposed “pesticide immunity” laws. These laws, reportedly supported by companies like Bayer, would purportedly shield pesticide manufacturers from lawsuits even if they fail to disclose critical safety information. Fox’s advocacy is based on his personal experience in 2012 when his organic farm was contaminated by pesticide spraying, leading to health and financial issues. His experience highlights the potential risks of such laws, which could potentially endanger public health by allowing companies to withhold information about product safety. However, Bayer representatives argue that the bill would protect farmers from frivolous lawsuits, thereby keeping food prices low.
Sources
Iowa Farmer’s Fight Against Pesticide Immunity Laws: A Personal Battle for Accountability
It’s a law that would prohibit lawsuits about pesticides, even if companies fail to disclose information on their labels.
Source | Submitted by Barbara
Navigating the Global Liquidity Crisis: The Rising Tide of Collateral-Based Lending and Debt Refinancing Challenges
If there’s no global liquidity, you get a refinancing crisis.
Source | Submitted by rhollenb
Pope Francis Dies at 88 After Suffering Cerebral Stroke, Leaves Legacy of Humility and Controversy
Pope Francis, history’s first Latin American pontiff who charmed the world with his humble style and concern for the poor but alienated conservatives with critiques of capitalism and climate change, died Monday.
Source | Submitted by Walberga
Gold’s Quiet Rise: Becoming the Backbone of Global Finance Again
Gold is becoming Tier 1 collateral again. And that changes everything.
Source | Submitted by Rick
Russia and Iran Ink Strategic Partnership Amidst U.S. Diplomatic Maneuvers
“On Monday, Moscow formalized a defense and economic cooperation agreement with Tehran, codifying the alliance between the two nations.”
New WEF Chairman Advocates for Privatization of Water, Denies It as a Human Right
Water is a commodity, like any other commodity, and should have a market value.
Cardinal Sarah and Bishop Schneider: The Vatican’s Hardliners Against Mass Migration and Islamization of Europe
“I’m afraid that the West is dying.”
Romanian Nationalist George Simion Leads Presidential Race, EU on Edge
George Simion, the nationalist firebrand, is now leading the Romanian presidential race with a commanding 35% support, per new Sociopol polls.
Cuomo Faces DOJ Referral for Alleged Perjury in Nursing Home Scandal
“Andrew Cuomo is a man with a history of corruption and deceit, now caught red-handed lying to Congress during the Select Subcommittee’s investigation into the COVID-19 nursing home tragedy in New York.”
Pentagon Insider Reveals Alleged Plot to Oust Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Amidst Iran War Tensions
The entire Pentagon is working against you and working against the monumental change that you are trying to implement.
In addition to sources submitted by community members, the following were also used in the creation of this report: Des Moines Register, The Economist, La Croix, The New York Times.
by aaronmckeon 
