2026 BRICS Macro-Economic Context
Brief introduction, with several good video references
The 2026 year has begun with a large bang. The economic stasis of the world is changing. We are entering a new world order of competing economic systems.
BRICS is perhaps the biggest economic movement in the world right now.
BRICS is a coalition of states that have become frustrated with the Dollar based world market system. BRICS was founded in June 16, 2009. BRICS+ indicates countries that have joined after Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
The most recent project of BRICS nearing completion is the 'BRICS unit', and commodity systems, clearing systems, for the 'BRICS unit'.
What is the 'BRICS unit'?
a proposed, blockchain-based, gold-backed (40% gold, 60% local currencies) settlement token
So now we have countries competing with the dollar with a gold backed unit. This project itself could dethrone the dollar reserve standard, and already is.
Russian President Putin's speech 6 month's ago in regards to this system:
Plenary session of St Petersburg International Economic Forum:
Donald Trump, the president of the United States, has been pushing back against all BRICS actions. This is quite a spider web of things to talk about.
One of the main things to notice, is that BRICS nations are working on electronic exchanges and settlement systems so as not to rely at all on the US-led fiscal and monetary kerfuffle.
While I do not agree at all with Russia terrorizing Ukraine or Ukraine terrorizing Russia, smart people are starting to notice what BRICS is working on, and businesses are starting to allocate to hedge in case BRICS is successful.
BRICS Grain Exchange
First proposed by Russia in March 2024 and formally endorsed in the October 2024 Kazan Declaration. BRICS nations account for ~44% of global grain production.
By starting a commodity exchange for settlement and delivery of grains, this would be a great first step for local workers to start saving BRICS units.
India is the current chair of BRICS, having assumed the role on January 1, 2026, following Brazil's 2025 term, Russia 2024.
India is a great country to start the development of commodity exchanges based on BRICS units. Good technology skill and Indians at large also understand the value of gold and sound money. India also understands what happens when you let another nation (Britain) determine your economic policies.
00:00 Introduction to BRICS Grain Exchange 00:12 Background and Previous Discussions 00:46 The Scale of BRICS Grain Production 01:18 Seven Surprising Benefits of the Exchange 01:36 Creation and Mechanics of the BRICS Agricultural Exchange 03:47 Reduction in Trade Costs and Risks 04:24 Impact on Global Food Prices 05:00 Advantages for BRICS Member Countries 06:13 Strategic Advantages in the Global Food Market 07:50 Internal Price Regulation 08:22 Expansion of BRICS Influence 09:15 Technological Advancements and Future Plans 11:12 European Union's Latest Move and Conclusion
My next article will highlight what allies of United States are working on. In my opinion non-BRICS nations should work in a friendly manner with BRICS, to avoid division and disputes.
References:
St Petersburg Economic Forum:
youtube.com/watch?v=CvlnI4Yewg0
Putin speaking remotely to 17th BRICS summit:
youtube.com/watch?v=dGF6XGxE-lY
youtube.com/watch?v=C_YJAAtPGfc