Local markets in the capital, Baghdad, and other governorates have witnessed a notable increase in foreign currency exchange rates and precious metal prices. Morning trading in major stock exchanges and exchange offices recorded an increase in the value of the US dollar against the national currency, with a significant convergence in rates observed between the capital and the markets of the Kurdistan Region. In a related context, gold prices continued to rise, with the ounce reaching new record levels, which directly reflected on the direct selling prices of gold per mithqal of various carats in local jewelry markets, recording noticeable leaps in its market value.