Since the start of the current Iranian calendar year (March 20) until November 30, the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) has been actively involved in providing subsidized foreign currency to importers of essential goods. This significant financial support has played a crucial role in the country's economic activities.

The Impact of Subsidized Foreign Currency

CBI figures clearly indicate the extent of this support. During this period, a substantial amount of $47.375 billion was disbursed. Of this, $9.899 billion was allocated for importing basic goods and medicine, which are essential for the well-being of the population. These imports are crucial as they help meet the daily needs of the people.The provision of $26.116 billion for commercial goods showcases the CBI's efforts in promoting trade and economic growth. Commercial goods are the backbone of any economy, and this injection of foreign currency ensures the smooth flow of goods in the market.Another important aspect is the $981 million provided for services. Services play a vital role in the modern economy, and this subsidy helps in the development and improvement of various service sectors.Additionally, $10.379 billion was provided for imports in return for exports of goods or services from Iran. This highlights the CBI's strategy of balancing imports and exports to maintain a stable economic environment.

Basic Goods and Medicine Import Rate

Basic goods and medicine are imported into Iran at a rate of 285,000 rials per U.S. dollar. This rate is significantly lower than the current market price, which is hovering around 700,000 rials per U.S. dollar. Such a subsidy ensures that essential items are available to the people at a more affordable price.Importers also have the option to receive hard currency at a rate applied in the CBI's Forex Management Integrated System, known as NIMA. On August 17, the price was 450,937 rials per U.S. dollar. This system provides an additional avenue for importers to obtain the necessary foreign currency.The CBI's efforts in providing subsidized foreign currency have a direct impact on the economy. It helps in stabilizing prices, ensuring the availability of essential goods, and promoting trade. These measures are essential for the growth and development of the Iranian economy.

Commercial Goods and Economic Growth

The $26.116 billion provided for commercial goods is a clear indication of the CBI's focus on promoting economic growth. Commercial goods are the lifeblood of any economy, and this injection of foreign currency helps in expanding business activities and creating employment opportunities.By facilitating the import of commercial goods, the CBI is contributing to the development of various industries and sectors. This, in turn, leads to increased production, improved competitiveness, and overall economic growth.The CBI's role in managing foreign currency and providing subsidies is crucial for maintaining a stable economic environment. It helps in addressing the challenges faced by importers and ensures the smooth functioning of the economy.

Import-Export Balance

The $10.379 billion provided for imports in return for exports of goods or services from Iran is a strategic move by the CBI. This helps in maintaining a balance between imports and exports, which is essential for the long-term stability of the economy.By encouraging exports and providing subsidies for imports, the CBI is creating a favorable environment for trade. This not only helps in meeting the domestic demand but also enhances the country's international trade position.In conclusion, the Central Bank of Iran's provision of subsidized foreign currency has had a significant impact on the economy. It has helped in meeting the essential needs of the people, promoting trade and economic growth, and maintaining a balance between imports and exports. These efforts are crucial for the sustainable development of the Iranian economy.

Ethereum (ETH) exchange traded funds (ETF) in the U.S. witnessed remarkable daily inflows on Friday. This serves as another indication that the second-largest cryptocurrency is gathering momentum as a catch-up trade following its underperformance compared to bitcoin (BTC) this year. Farside Investors' compiled data shows that the nine products combined recorded $332.9 million in net inflows during the shortened trading session on Friday. BlackRock's iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA) and Fidelity Ethereum Fund (FETH) took the lead, attracting $250 million and $79 million of fresh funds respectively.

Friday's Inflows and Weekly Performance

Friday marked the fifth consecutive session with net inflows for the group. According to SoSoValue data, it concluded the second strongest week with $455 million in net inflows. It was a shorter week as U.S. traditional markets were closed on Thanksgiving Thursday. Additionally, ETH ETFs outpaced flows into their spot bitcoin counterparts, which gathered $320 million inflows on Friday but suffered net outflows during the week.

Recent Resurgence

After losing favor among investors and lagging behind bitcoin in price action and ETF flows this year, ether has experienced a significant resurgence recently. Donald Trump's election victory rejuvenated interest in altcoins and decentralized finance (DeFi) applications. Along with strong ETF inflows, open interest for ETF futures on the institutional-focused Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) surged to all-time records of almost $3 billion, as per CoinGlass. This underscores the improving sentiment towards the asset.

Price Performance and Ratio Analysis

While bitcoin spent the week consolidating below $100,000, ETH showed relative strength against the largest crypto. On Saturday, ETH's price hit a five-month high above $3,700 and outperformed BTC on both a weekly and monthly basis, although it still lags year-on-year, as indicated by CoinDesk Indices data. Joel Kruger, market strategist at LMAX Group, stated that the ETH-BTC ratio might be forming a major bottom after trending down for about three years. He said, "We believe the improved outlook for the DeFi space — a warmer regulatory climate with the incoming US administration — is a main driver behind the shift in sentiment, as market participants can now see a clearer path towards investing in Ethereum."