Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Significant Losses In Wealthfront To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options
If you suffered significant losses in Wealthfront stock or options and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
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New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2026) - Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Wealthfront Corporation ("Wealthfront" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: WLTH).
Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.
Shares of Wealthfront Corporation declined sharply following the company's first post-IPO earnings release, pressured by disappointing asset flow figures and emerging investor concerns about strategic exposures underpinning its mortgage business. The stock sell-off came as Wealthfront reported softer net inflows in recent months, signaling a slowdown in client acquisitions and cash management balances relative to prior periods. Additionally, heightened market scrutiny over the CEO's ownership stake in a banking partner central to the firm's mortgage initiative has added to investor uncertainty, fueling speculation around potential conflicts of interest and long-term integration risks.
Since the company's IPO on or around December 12, 2025, at $14.00 per share, the stock has fallen $3.74, or 26.71%, to close at $10.26 on January 14, 2026.
To learn more about the Wealthfront investigation, go to www.faruqilaw.com/WLTH or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
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Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/284721
Source: Faruqi & Faruqi LLP
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2026-02-21 13:0420d ago
2026-02-21 07:4821d ago
PSFE DEADLINE ALERT: Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Reminds Paysafe (PSFE) Investors of Securities Class Action Deadline on April 7, 2026
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses In Paysafe To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options
If you purchased or acquired securities in Paysafe between March 4, 2025 and November 12, 2025 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
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New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2026) - Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Paysafe Limited ("Paysafe" or the "Company") (NYSE: PSFE) and reminds investors of the April 7, 2026 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company.
Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.
As detailed below, the complaint alleges that the Company and its executives violated federal securities laws by making false and/or misleading statements and/or failing to disclose that: (1) Paysafe's ecommerce business had significant exposure to a single high risk client; (2) as a result, the Company's credit loss reserves and/or write-offs were understated; (3) Paysafe had an undisclosed issue with higher risk Merchant Category Codes, making its client services difficult to bank; (4) the foregoing issues were likely to have a material negative impact on the Company's revenue growth and overall revenue mix; (5) as a result, Paysafe was unlikely to meet its own previously issued financial guidance for fiscal year 2025; and (6) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.
On November 13, 2025, before the market opened, Paysafe announced third quarter financial results, including revenue of $433.8 million, which missed consensus estimates by $5.8 million, and a net loss of $87.7 million, a steep drop from the prior year period wherein the Company's net loss was only $12.98 million. The Company also slashed full year 2025 expected revenue to $17 million at the midpoint, and adjusted EPS $0.50 at the midpoint.
The Company further revealed that its credit loss expense for the quarter was $13,220 "primarily [as] the result of a specific provision for expected chargebacks related to an individual merchant in the Merchant Solutions segment." The report revealed write-offs of $9,924 "driven by the write off of irrecoverable amounts receivable in the Merchant Solutions segment."
On the same date, the Company held an earnings call during which CEO Bruce Lowthers revealed the Company "had a last-minute client that had to shut down that caused several million-dollar write-down in Q3." Lowthers further revealed the Company is in a market tier with "higher risk MCC [Merchant Category Codes] codes." Lowthers explained "those things sometimes are a little difficult to bank" and "sometimes the banks aren't open to the additional risk" "so, we've had a little bit of challenge with that with some of those MCC codes."
On this news, Paysafe's stock price fell $2.80, or 27.6%, to close at $7.36 per share on November 13, 2025, on unusually heavy trading volume.
The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not.
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding Paysafe's conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others.
To learn more about the Paysafe Limited class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/PSFE or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
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Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/284726
Source: Faruqi & Faruqi LLP
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2026-02-21 13:0420d ago
2026-02-21 07:5021d ago
SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Helen of Troy Limited (HELE) Stock Drops 25% After Earnings Report; Faruqi & Faruqi Investigates Potential Securities Claims
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Significant Losses In Helen of Troy To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options
If you suffered significant losses in Helen of Troy stock or options and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
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New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2026) - Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Helen of Troy Limited ("Helen of Troy" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: HELE).
Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.
On October 9, 2025, Helen of Troy reported financial results for the second quarter of fiscal 2026, revealing an approximately 8.9% year-over-year decline in consolidated net sales to roughly $431.8 million. The Company also reported a GAAP diluted loss per share of $13.44, driven in part by significant charges, and adjusted diluted earnings per share of approximately $0.59, down substantially from $1.21 in the prior-year period.
Following this news, Helen of Troy's common stock declined sharply. The Company's shares fell $6.90 per share, or approximately 25.0%, to close at $20.71 per share on October 9, 2025.
To learn more about the Helen of Troy investigation, go to www.faruqilaw.com/HELE or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
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Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/284719
Source: Faruqi & Faruqi LLP
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2026-02-21 13:0420d ago
2026-02-21 07:5621d ago
SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Investigates Claims on Behalf of Investors of Aquestive Therapeutics
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Significant Losses In Aquestive Therapeutics To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options
If you suffered significant losses in Aquestive Therapeutics stock or options and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
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New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2026) - Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Aquestive Therapeutics, Inc. ("Aquestive" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: AQST).
Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.
Shares of Aquestive Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: AQST) plunged approximately 40% intraday on Friday after the company disclosed that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified deficiencies in its New Drug Application (NDA) for Anaphylm, its experimental sublingual film for the treatment of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. The FDA advised that the unidentified deficiencies currently prevent discussions of labeling and post-marketing requirements, raising concerns about the application's approvability ahead of the January 31, 2026, PDUFA action date.
To learn more about the Aquestive Therapeutics investigation, go to www.faruqilaw.com/AQST or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
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Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/284720
Source: Faruqi & Faruqi LLP
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2026-02-21 13:0420d ago
2026-02-21 07:5621d ago
PMI DEADLINE ALERT: Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Reminds Picard Medical (PMI) Investors of Securities Class Action Deadline on April 13, 2026
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses In Picard Medical To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options
If you purchased or acquired securities in Picard Medical between September 2, 2025 and October 31, 2025 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
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New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2026) - Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Picard Medical, Inc. ("Picard" or the "Company") (NYSE American: PMI) and reminds investors of the April 13, 2026 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company.
Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.
As detailed below, the complaint alleges that the Company and its executives violated federal securities laws by making false and/or misleading statements and/or failing to disclose that: (1) that Picard was the subject of a fraudulent stock promotion scheme involving social media-based misinformation and impersonated financial professionals; (2) that insiders and/or affiliates used offshore or nominee accounts to facilitate the coordinated dumping of shares during a price inflation campaign; and (3) that Picard's public statements and risk disclosures omitted any mention of the false rumors and artificial trading activity driving the stock price.
On October 24, 2025, Picard Medical, Inc. (NYSE: PMI) shares closed at $5.31, a steep decline from the prior trading session's close of $13.20 on October 23, 2025. This represents a drop of $7.89 per share, or approximately a 59.8% decrease in value in a single session, marking one of the most significant one-day declines since the company's recent IPO.
The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not.
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding Picard Medical's conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others.
To learn more about the Picard Medical class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/PMI or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, on X, or on Facebook.
Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/284727
Source: Faruqi & Faruqi LLP
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Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of TLO:CA either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
2026-02-21 13:0420d ago
2026-02-21 08:0021d ago
Perion Q4: Positioning Itself As The AI Decision Layer In Ad Buying
Perion Networks' FY '26 guidance implies 11% contribution ex-TAC growth at the midpoint, with adjusted EBITDA margins expanding 100 bps to 23%. Management targets greater than 20% CAGR in contribution ex-TAC through 2028, alongside margin expansion to 28%. Net cash of $285M equals more than 80% of the current market cap.
SummaryVICI Properties offers fortress-quality exposure to experiential real estate, anchored by iconic Las Vegas assets and long-term CPI-linked leases.VICI trades at a forward P/AFFO of 11.7, a 17% discount to fair value, with a 6.2% dividend yield and mid-70% payout ratio.Growth is driven by lease escalators and accretive acquisitions like Golden Entertainment, supporting 3.9% annual AFFO/share growth through 2028.Key risks include tenant concentration—74% ABR from Caesars and MGM—and Las Vegas visitor trends, though the market is shifting upscale.This idea was discussed in more depth with members of my private investing community, The Dividend Kings. Learn More » Gary Yeowell/DigitalVision via Getty Images
Co-authored by Kody's Dividends
After the Battle of Zela, Julius Caesar famously wrote in his letter to the Roman Senate
Veni, vidi, vici.
This simply translates to "I came, I saw, I conquered."
As
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of REXR, O, VICI either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Kody's Dividends, Justin Law, and Rachel Kaufman are part of the Dividend Kings team
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
2026-02-21 13:0420d ago
2026-02-21 08:0021d ago
TREMFYA® (guselkumab) long-term data show sustained clinical and endoscopic remission in ulcerative colitis through 3 years
More than 80% of those treated with TREMFYA® were in clinical remission and more than 50% were in endoscopic remission at Week 140 of the QUASAR long-term extension study, showing lasting disease control for patients
78% of patients achieved intestinal healing at both the tissue and visual level (histo-endoscopic mucosal improvement)
, /PRNewswire/ -- Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) today announced new long-term data from the QUASAR long-term extension (LTE) study showing that TREMFYA® (guselkumab) sustained clinical, endoscopic, and histologic outcomes through Week 140 in adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC). These data are among the 30 company-sponsored abstracts being presented at the European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation (ECCO) 2026 conference.
At Week 140, 80.8% of patients taking TREMFYA® were in clinical remissiona. Additionally, 78.6% of patients achieved histo-endoscopic mucosal improvement (HEMI)b, and 53.6% of patients were in endoscopic remissionc, respectively.d Approximately 89% of eligible study participants combined completed treatment through Week 140. Nearly all participants who achieved clinical remission at Week 140 were corticosteroid-free for at least eight weeks.1
The study also showed that of those in clinical remission at Week 44, 87.5% maintained clinical remission through Week 140. Efficacy was sustained regardless of prior biologic and/or JAK inhibitor treatment history, and no new safety concerns were observed.1
"Ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition that can significantly impact patients' overall health and they need treatment options that remain effective and well-tolerated over time," said Laurent Peyrin-Biroulet, MD, PhD, study investigator.e "The QUASAR long-term study shows the sustained ability of TREMFYA to deliver durable results, with consistent outcomes regardless of previous biologic or JAK inhibitor treatment. With high study retention and no new safety concerns over this extended time period, the data strengthen confidence in the long-term use of TREMFYA in ulcerative colitis."
"These findings highlight the endoscopic outcomes that can be achieved with TREMFYA, raising expectations for what is possible for patients with ulcerative colitis," said Esi Lamousé-Smith, MD, PhD, Vice President, Gastroenterology Disease Area Lead, Immunology, Johnson & Johnson. "Patients who achieve endoscopic remission experience fewer flare-ups and are less likely to need steroids or require surgery over time. We are energized by these findings and remain focused on delivering treatments that help more patients achieve meaningful, lasting disease control."
TREMFYA® is the first and only approved, dual-acting monoclonal antibody that blocks IL-23 while also binding to CD64, a receptor on cells that produce IL-23. IL-23 is a cytokine secreted by activated monocyte/macrophages and dendritic cells that is known to be a driver of immune-mediated diseases. Findings are based on in vitro studies. 2 3 4 5 6
TREMFYA® has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Commission (EC) approval for both SC and IV induction options for the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease and U.S. FDA approval for both SC and IV induction options for the treatment of adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis. TREMFYA® is approved by the EC for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis and is currently administered via an IV induction regimen, followed by a SC maintenance regimen.
Two other Johnson & Johnson-sponsored abstracts were selected as Top 10 oral abstracts by ECCO, highlighting continued commitment to providing treatment options to those with inflammatory bowel disease:
Results from the Phase 2b ANTHEM-UC study of icotrokinra, the first targeted oral peptide that selectively blocks the interleukin-23 receptor, demonstrating its impact on systemic and tissue biomarkers of inflammatory burden in UC.7 Primary safety results from the UNITI Jr study of STELARA® (ustekinumab) showing that it was effective and well-tolerated, with no new safety signals, in treating pediatric patients with Crohn's disease.8 For a full list of all Johnson & Johnson data being presented at ECCO visit: https://www.jnj.com/innovativemedicine/immunology/gastroenterology.
Editor's Notes:
a. Clinical remission was defined as a Mayo stool frequency subscore of 0 or 1 and not increased from induction baseline, a Mayo rectal bleeding subscore of 0, and a Mayo endoscopic subscore (MES) of 0 or 1.
b. Histo-endoscopic mucosal improvement was defined as a combination of endoscopic improvement and histologic improvement (neutrophil infiltration in <5% of crypts, no crypts destruction, and no erosions, ulcerations or granulation tissue according to the Geboes grading system.
c. Endoscopic remission (normalization) was defined as a MES of 0.
d. As observed. Data were analyzed using 2 methods: 'nonresponder imputation' (NRI) accounting for patients with treatment failure or missing data, and 'as observed'. NRI results were consistent with as observed.
e. Dr. Laurent Peyrin-Biroulet is a paid consultant for Johnson & Johnson. He has not been compensated for any media work.
About the QUASAR Program (NCT04033445)
QUASAR is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group, multicenter, Phase 2b/3 program designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TREMFYA® in adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis who had an inadequate response or intolerance to conventional therapy (e.g., thiopurines or corticosteroids), prior biologics (TNF antagonists or vedolizumab) and/or JAK inhibitors (tofacitinib). QUASAR included a Phase 2b dose-ranging induction study, a confirmatory Phase 3 induction study, and a Phase 3 randomized withdrawal maintenance study. In the Phase 3 induction study, patients received either TREMFYA® 200 mg or placebo by IV infusion at Weeks 0, 4, and 8. In the Phase 3 maintenance study, patients received a SC maintenance regimen of either TREMFYA® 200 mg q4w, TREMFYA® 100 mg q8w, or placebo. The ongoing long-term extension study provides an additional 4 years of treatment. Efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetics, immunogenicity, and biomarkers are assessed at specified time points.9
About ANTHEM-UC (NCT06049017)
ANTHEM-UC is a Phase 2b multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of icotrokinra (JNJ-77242113, JNJ-2113) in patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis who had an inadequate response or intolerance to conventional therapy (e.g., thiopurines or corticosteroids), prior biologics (TNF antagonists or vedolizumab) and/or ozanimod or approved JAK inhibitors. The study is evaluating three once-daily dosages of icotrokinra taken orally. Participants who complete the Week 28 assessments and have achieved clinical response at Week 28 and who, in the opinion of the investigator, will continue to benefit from treatment with study intervention will continue in the 48-week long term extension (LTE) period and receive the same treatment up to Week 76.10
About UNITI JR (NCT04673357)
UNITI-Jr is a randomized, double-blind Phase 3 study evaluating the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of ustekinumab in 48 pediatric patients (aged 2-17) with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease (defined by a Pediatric Crohn's Disease Activity Index [PCDAI] score >30) through 52 weeks of treatment (8 weeks of induction and 44 weeks of maintenance treatment).1,3 The study included an open-label induction treatment with a single ustekinumab intravenous dose of approximately 6mg/kg followed by a randomized double-blind subcutaneous maintenance regimen of 90mg administered either every 8 weeks or every 12 weeks.
About Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic disease of the large intestine, also known as the colon, in which the lining of the colon becomes inflamed and develops tiny open sores, or ulcers, that produce pus and mucus. It is the result of the immune system's overactive response. Symptoms vary but may typically include loose and more urgent bowel movements, rectal bleeding or bloody stool, persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, and fatigue.11
About Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is one of the two main forms of inflammatory bowel disease, which affects an estimated three million Americans and an estimated four million people across Europe.12 13 Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract with no known cause, but the disease is associated with abnormalities of the immune system that could be triggered by a genetic predisposition, diet, or other environmental factors.14 Symptoms of Crohn's disease can vary, but often include abdominal pain and tenderness, frequent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fever. Currently no cure is available for Crohn's disease.15
About TREMFYA® (guselkumab)
Developed by Johnson & Johnson, TREMFYA® is the first fully-human, dual-acting monoclonal antibody designed to neutralize inflammation at the cellular source by blocking IL-23 and binding to CD64 (a receptor on cells that produce IL-23). Findings for the dual-acting mechanism are limited to in vitro studies that demonstrate guselkumab binds to CD64, which is expressed on the surface of IL-23 producing cells in an inflammatory monocyte model. The clinical significance of this finding is not known.
TREMFYA® is a prescription medicine approved in the U.S. to treat:
adults and children 6 years and older who also weigh at least 88 pounds (40 kg) with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from taking injections or pills (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet or UV light). adults and children 6 years and older who also weigh at least 88 pounds (40 kg) with active psoriatic arthritis. adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis. adults with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease. TREMFYA® is approved in Europe, Canada, Japan, and a number of other countries for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, adults with active psoriatic arthritis, adults with moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease and adults with moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis.
The legal manufacturer for TREMFYA® is Janssen Biotech, Inc.
Johnson & Johnson maintains exclusive worldwide marketing rights to TREMFYA®. For more information, visit: www.tremfya.com.
About Icotrokinra (JNJ-77242113, JNJ-2113)
Investigational icotrokinra is the first targeted oral peptide designed to precisely block the IL-23 receptor16, which underpins the inflammatory response in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, ulcerative colitis and offers potential in other IL-23-mediated diseases.17 18 Icotrokinra binds to the IL-23 receptor with single-digit picomolar affinity and demonstrated potent, precise inhibition of IL-23 signaling in human T cells.19 The license and collaboration agreement established between Protagonist Therapeutics, Inc. and Janssen Biotech, Inc., a Johnson & Johnson company, in 2017 enabled the companies to work together to discover and develop next-generation compounds that ultimately led to icotrokinra.20
Icotrokinra was jointly discovered and is being developed pursuant to the license and collaboration agreement between Protagonist and Johnson & Johnson. Johnson & Johnson retains exclusive worldwide rights to develop icotrokinra in Phase 2 clinical trials and beyond, and to commercialize compounds derived from the research conducted pursuant to the agreement against a broad range of indications.21 22 23
Icotrokinra is being studied in the pivotal Phase 3 ICONIC clinical development program in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, active psoriatic arthritis, moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis and moderately to severely active Crohn's disease.
TREMFYA® IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA®?
TREMFYA® is a prescription medicine that may cause serious side effects, including:
Serious Allergic Reactions. Stop using TREMFYA® and get emergency medical help right away if you develop any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: o fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded (low blood
pressure)
o swelling of your face, eyelids, lips, mouth, tongue
or throat
o trouble breathing or throat tightness
o chest tightness
o skin rash, hives
o itching
Infections. TREMFYA® may lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections and may increase your risk of infections. Your healthcare provider should check you for infections and tuberculosis (TB) before starting treatment with TREMFYA® and may treat you for TB before you begin treatment with TREMFYA® if you have a history of TB or have active TB. Your healthcare provider should watch you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during and after treatment with TREMFYA®. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have an infection or have symptoms of an infection, including:
o fever, sweats, or chills
o muscle aches
o weight loss
o cough
o warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body
different from your psoriasis
o diarrhea or stomach pain
o shortness of breath
o blood in your phlegm (mucus)
o burning when you urinate or urinating more often
than normal
Liver problems. With the treatment of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, your healthcare provider will do blood tests to check your liver before and during treatment with TREMFYA®. Your healthcare provider may stop treatment with TREMFYA® if you develop liver problems. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you notice any of the following symptoms: o unexplained rash
o vomiting
o tiredness (fatigue)
o yellowing of the skin or the whites of your eyes
o nausea
o stomach pain (abdominal)
o loss of appetite
o dark urine
Do not use TREMFYA® if you have had a serious allergic reaction to guselkumab or any of the ingredients in TREMFYA®.
Before using TREMFYA®, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
have any of the conditions or symptoms listed in the section "What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA®?" have an infection that does not go away or that keeps coming back. have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB. have recently received or are scheduled to receive an immunization (vaccine). You should avoid receiving live vaccines during treatment with TREMFYA®. are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TREMFYA® can harm your unborn baby.
Pregnancy Registry: If you become pregnant during treatment with TREMFYA®, talk to your healthcare provider about registering in the pregnancy exposure registry for TREMFYA®. You can enroll by visiting www.mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/tremfya-guselkumab, by calling 1-877-311-8972, or emailing [email protected]. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the safety of TREMFYA® during pregnancy. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TREMFYA® passes into your breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What are the possible side effects of TREMFYA®?
TREMFYA® may cause serious side effects. See "What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA®?"
The most common side effects of TREMFYA® include: respiratory tract infections, headache, injection site reactions, joint pain (arthralgia), diarrhea, stomach flu (gastroenteritis), fungal skin infections, herpes simplex infections, stomach pain, and bronchitis.
These are not all the possible side effects of TREMFYA®. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
Use TREMFYA® exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it.
Please read the full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide, for TREMFYA® and discuss any questions that you have with your doctor.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Dosage Forms and Strengths: TREMFYA® is available as 100 mg/mL and 200 mg/2mL for subcutaneous injection and as a 200 mg/20 mL (10 mg/mL) single dose vial for intravenous infusion.
WHAT IS STELARA® (ustekinumab)?
STELARA® is a prescription medicine used to treat:
adults and children 6 years of age and older with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from taking injections or pills (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet light alone or with pills). adults and children 6 years of age and older with active psoriatic arthritis. adults with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease. adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
STELARA® is a prescription medicine that affects your immune system. STELARA® can increase your chance of having serious side effects, including:
Serious Infections
STELARA® may lower your ability to fight infections and may increase your risk of infections. Some people have serious infections during treatment with STELARA®, which may require hospitalization, including tuberculosis (TB), and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses.
Your healthcare provider should check you for TB before starting STELARA® and watch you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during treatment Before starting STELARA®, tell your healthcare provider if you:
think you have an infection or have symptoms of an infection such as: o fever, sweats, or chills
o muscle aches
o cough
o shortness of breath
o blood in phlegm
o weight loss
o warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body
o diarrhea or stomach pain
o burning when you urinate or urinate more often than normal
o feel very tired
are being treated for an infection or have any open cuts. get a lot of infections or have infections that keep coming back. have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB. After starting STELARA®, call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of an infection (see above). These may be signs of infections such as chest infections, or skin infections or shingles that could have serious complications. STELARA® can make you more likely to get infections or make an infection that you have worse.
People who have a genetic problem where the body does not make any of the proteins interleukin 12 (IL-12) and interleukin 23 (IL-23) are at a higher risk for certain serious infections that can spread throughout the body and cause death. People who take STELARA® may also be more likely to get these infections.
Cancers
STELARA® may decrease the activity of your immune system and increase your risk for certain types of cancer. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any type of cancer. Some people who had risk factors for skin cancer developed certain types of skin cancers while receiving STELARA®. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new skin growths.
Serious Allergic Reactions
Serious allergic reactions can occur. Stop using STELARA® and get medical help right away if you get any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as: feeling faint, swelling of your face, eyelids, tongue, or throat, chest tightness, or skin rash.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES)
PRES is a rare condition that affects the brain and can cause death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any symptoms of PRES during treatment with STELARA®, including: headache, seizures, confusion, and vision problems.
Lung Inflammation
Cases of lung inflammation have happened in some people who receive STELARA® and may be serious. These lung problems may need to be treated in a hospital. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop shortness of breath or a cough that doesn't go away during treatment with STELARA®.
Before you use or receive STELARA®, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
have any of the conditions or symptoms listed above for serious infections or cancers. ever had an allergic reaction to STELARA® or any of its ingredients. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure. are allergic to latex. The needle cover on the prefilled syringe contains latex. have recently received or are scheduled to receive an immunization (vaccine). People who are being treated with STELARA® should avoid receiving live vaccines. Tell your healthcare provider if anyone in your house needs a live vaccine. The viruses used in some types of live vaccines can spread to people with a weakened immune system and can cause serious problems. You should avoid receiving the BCG vaccine during the one year before receiving STELARA® or one year after you stop receiving STELARA®. have any new or changing lesions within psoriasis areas or on normal skin. are receiving or have received allergy shots, especially for serious allergic reactions. receive or have received phototherapy for your psoriasis. are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if STELARA® can harm your unborn baby. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will receive STELARA®. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. STELARA® can pass into your breast milk. talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you receive STELARA®. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
When prescribed STELARA®:
Use STELARA® exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to. The healthcare provider will determine the right dose of STELARA®, the amount for each injection, and how often it should be given. Be sure to keep all scheduled follow-up appointments. STELARA® is intended for use under the guidance and supervision of your healthcare provider. In children, it is recommended that STELARA® be administered by a healthcare provider. If your healthcare provider decides that you or a caregiver may give your injections of STELARA® at home, you or a caregiver should receive training on the right way to prepare and inject STELARA®. Do not try to inject STELARA® until you have been shown how to inject STELARA® by a healthcare provider. Common side effects of STELARA® include: nasal congestion, sore throat, and runny nose, upper respiratory infections, fever, headache, tiredness, itching, nausea and vomiting, influenza, redness at the injection site, vaginal yeast infections, urinary tract infections, sinus infection, bronchitis, diarrhea, stomach pain, and joint pain. These are not all of the possible side effects with STELARA®. Tell your doctor about any side effect that you experience. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Please read the full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide for STELARA® and discuss any questions you have with your doctor.
ABOUT JOHNSON & JOHNSON
At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity.
Learn more at https://www.jnj.com/ or at www.innovativemedicine.jnj.com
Follow us at @JNJInnovMed.
Cautions Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 related to TREMFYA®. The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from the expectations and projections of Johnson & Johnson. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: competition, including technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; uncertainty of commercial success for new products; the ability of the company to successfully execute strategic plans; impact of business combinations and divestitures; challenges to patents; changes in behavior and spending patterns or financial distress of purchasers of health care products and services; and global health care reforms and trends toward health care cost containment. A further list and descriptions of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in Johnson & Johnson's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, including in the sections captioned "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" and "Item 1A. Risk Factors," and in Johnson & Johnson's subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies of these filings are available online at www.sec.gov, www.jnj.com, www.investor.jnj.com or on request from Johnson & Johnson. Johnson & Johnson does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments.
References:
__________________________
1 Peyrin-Biroulet L, et al. Efficacy and safety of guselkumab for ulcerative colitis through week 140 of the QUASAR long-term extension study. Poster presentation (DOP104) at European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation 2026. February 2026.
2 Atreya R, Abreu MT, Krueger JG, et al. Guselkumab, an IL-23p19 subunit-specific monoclonal antibody, binds CD64+ myeloid cells and potentially neutralizes IL-23 produced from the same cells. Poster presented at: 18th Congress of the European Crohn's and Colitis Organization (ECCO); March 1-4, 2023; Copenhagen, Denmark. Poster P504.
3 Kreuger JG, Eyerich K, Kuchroo VK. Il-23 past, present, and future: a roadmap to advancing IL-23 science and therapy. Front Immunol. 2024; 15:1331217. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2024.1331217.
4 TREMFYA® [Prescribing Information]. Horsham, PA: Janssen Biotech, Inc.
5 Skyrizi® [Prescribing Information]. North Chicago, IL: AbbVie, Inc.
6 Omvoh™ [Prescribing Information]. Indianapolis, IN: Eli Lilly and Company.
7 E. Louis, et. al. Icotrokinra, the first targeted oral peptide that selectively blocks the interleukin-23 receptor, reduces systemic and tissue inflammatory burden in Ulcerative Colitis: Results from the ANTHEM-UC study. Oral presentation (OP29) at European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation 2026. February 2026
8 D. Turner, et. al.The UNITI Jr Study: Safety and efficacy results of ustekinumab in paediatric patients with Crohn's Disease. Oral presentation (OP18) at European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation 2026. February 2026
9 National Institutes of Health: Clinicaltrials.gov. A Study of Guselkumab in Participants With Moderately to Severely Active Ulcerative Colitis (QUASAR). Identifier: NCT04033445. https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04033445. Accessed February 2026.
10 Clinicaltrials.gov. A Study of JNJ-77242113 in Participants With Moderately to Severely Active Ulcerative Colitis (ANTHEM-UC). Identifier NCT06049017. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06049017?term=ANTHEM-UC&rank=1. Accessed February 2026.
11 Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. What is ulcerative colitis? Available at: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/what-is-ulcerative-colitis. Accessed February 2026.
12 Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. Overview of Crohn's disease. Available at: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/what-is-crohns-disease/overview. Accessed February 2026.
13 Ng SC, et al. Worldwide incidence and prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease in the 21st century: a systematic review of population-based studies. The Lancet. 2017;390:2769-78.
14 Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. What is Crohn's disease? Available at: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/what-is-crohns-disease/causes. Accessed February 2026.
15 Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. Signs and symptoms of Crohn's disease. Available at https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/patientsandcaregivers/what-is-crohns-disease/symptoms. Accessed February 2026.
16 Bissonnette R, et al. Data presentation. A phase 2, randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging study of oral JNJ-77242113 for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis: FRONTIER 1. Presented at WCD 2023, July 3-8.
17 Razawy W, et al. The role of IL‐23 receptor signaling in inflammation‐mediated erosive autoimmune arthritis and bone remodeling. Eur J Immunol. 2018 Feb; 48(2): 220–229.
18 Tang C, et al. Interleukin-23: as a drug target for autoimmune inflammatory diseases. Immunology. 2012 Feb; 135(2): 112–124.
19 Pinter A, et al. Data Presentation. JNJ-77242113 Treatment Induces a Strong Systemic Pharmacodynamic Response Versus Placebo in Serum Samples of Patients with Plaque Psoriasis: Results from the Phase 2, FRONTIER 1 Study. Presented at EADV 2023, October 11-14.
20 Johnson & Johnson. Press release. Janssen enters into worldwide exclusive license and collaboration agreement with Protagonist Therapeutics, Inc. for the oral Interlukin-23 receptor antagonist drug candidate for the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Available at: https://www.jnj.com/media-center/press-releases/janssen-enters-into-worldwide-exclusive-license-and-collaboration-agreement-with-protagonist-therapeutics-inc-for-the-oral-interlukin-23-receptor-antagonist-drug-candidate-for-the-treatment-of-inflammatory-bowel-disease. Accessed February 2026.
21 Protagonist Therapeutics. Press release. Protagonist Therapeutics announces amendment of agreement with Janssen Biotech for the continued development and commercialization of IL-23 antagonists. Available at: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/protagonist-therapeutics-announces-amendment-of-agreement-with-janssen-biotech-for-the-continued-development-and-commercialization-of-il-23-antagonists-301343621.html. Accessed February 2026.
22 Protagonist Therapeutics. Press release. Protagonist Reports positive results from Phase 1 and pre-clinical studies of oral Interleukin-23 receptor antagonist JNJ-2113. Available at: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/protagonist-reports-positive-results-from-phase-1-and-pre-clinical-studies-of-oral-interleukin-23-receptor-antagonist-jnj-2113-301823039.html. Accessed February 2026.
23 Protagonist Therapeutics. Press release. Protagonist Therapeutics announces positive topline results for Phase 2b FRONTIER 1 clinical trial of oral IL-23 receptor antagonist JNJ-2113 (PN-235) in psoriasis. Available at: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/protagonist-therapeutics-announces-positive-topline-results-for-phase-2b-frontier-1-clinical-trial-of-oral-il-23-receptor-antagonist-jnj-2113-pn-235-in-psoriasis-301764181.html. Accessed February 2026.
SOURCE Johnson & Johnson
2026-02-21 13:0420d ago
2026-02-21 08:0021d ago
Under mounting toy pressures, Hasbro has a secret sauce that Mattel hasn't matched
The gap is widening between rival toy makers Hasbro and Mattel — thanks in part to a 30-year-old trading card game.
The toy giants have flip-flopped dominance in the space for decades, jockeying for the most coveted master licenses to put new fan favorites — Disney princesses and "Star Wars" characters among them — on store shelves. But as the industry recovers from a period of declining sales, Hasbro is the one winning over Wall Street.
For the fiscal year 2025, Hasbro reported revenue gains of 14%, reaching $4.7 billion, while Mattel saw its net sales drop 1% to $5.3 billion.
Though Mattel's revenue is larger than Hasbro's, its growth has been stagnating, according to Eric Handler, managing director and senior research analyst at Roth Capital Partners.
"[Mattel's] revenue has been in a very tight range for five years now, and 2026, on an organic basis, is the same," he told CNBC.
Mattel shares are down more than 20% in the last 12 months, trading at around $17. Meanwhile, Hasbro's stock is up roughly 46% over the same period, with shares trading at around $100.
Of course, Hasbro's journey post-pandemic has not been without its own headwinds. The company's revenue took a hit when it divested its film and TV business, eOne. Also, its entertainment segment, which includes film and TV licenses, was deeply impacted by Hollywood's dual labor strikes in 2023.
"Despite market volatility and a shifting consumer environment, we returned this company to growth in a meaningful way," Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks told investors during an earnings call earlier this month.
Throughout these changes, one key piece of Hasbro's business has been steadily growing — Wizards of the Coast.
A dash of MagicThe Hasbro division includes Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering and the company's portfolio of digital and video games.
In 2025, Wizards' revenue grew 45% to $2.1 billion, fueled by sales of sets tied to Magic's Universe Beyond and smaller, limited-edition Secret Lair packs — some that sell for close to $200.
While the segment accounts for less than half of the company's revenue, it represents 88% of its adjusted profits.
The strategic trading card game Magic, which was created in 1993, typically features two players going head-to-head using custom decks of collectible cards to cast spells, unleash creatures or use artifacts to defeat their opponent.
In the last five years, Hasbro has expanded beyond the lore of the initial game to launch card sets based on intellectual property from third parties, including "Avatar: The Last Airbender," Marvel's "Spider-Man" and "Lord of the Rings."
These sets are not only popular with long-standing Magic fans, but act as a gateway for consumers from other fanbases into the world of Magic. In mid-2025, Hasbro released a "Final Fantasy" set that became the fastest-selling expansion pack in Magic: The Gathering history, generating $200 million in sales in a single day.
"They have done a fantastic job of widening the funnel in the last couple years, and it's become a multigenerational type of product," Handler said. "The player base is growing. It's a sticky player base that is showing eagerness with new products and new ways to play."
Through the end of 2025, more than 1 million unique players participated in organized play — meaning sanctioned tournaments — according to Cocks. That's a 22% year-over-year increase, he said.
Additionally, the number of game stores that host events, called the Wizards Play Network, has grown to more than 10,000, a 20% increase from 2024.
"Taken together, this reinforces our confidence in Magic's long-term growth," Cocks said on the company's earnings call. "We are building a system of play with multiple entry points, product types, and engagement paths, and that system is positioned to continue driving growth into 2026 and beyond."
In 2026, Hasbro plans to launch new Magic sets based on "The Hobbit," "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" and "Star Trek."
The company has forecast mid-single-digit growth for its Wizards business in 2026, but Keegan Cox, associate vice president and research analyst at D.A. Davidson, in a research note published shortly after the company's earnings, called that estimate "conservative."
The digital frontierHasbro's Wizards unit also includes the digital and licensed gaming space, which saw revenues jump 6% in 2025, fueled by the success of "Monopoly Go!"
Cocks has previously noted that modern consumers and modern play is increasingly moving into online forums, and the company has launched new games and an in-person video game studio in Montreal to boost play.
While Hasbro's digital gaming division is growing, Mattel is just getting its own digital unit off the ground.
Earlier this month, Mattel announced it would buy out partner NetEase from its 50% stake in their Mattel163 joint venture, taking full ownership of the business. Mattel163 develops digital games based on the toy company's brands and since 2018 has launched four digital games: Uno, Uno Wonder, Phase 10 and Skip-Bo.
"In our view, [Mattel] is in the early stages of an investment similar to Hasbro's investment in gaming over 7 years ago," D.A. Davidson's Cox wrote. "While we do not think [Mattel] will be chasing to compete with Hasbro ... we do believe [Mattel] can make successful mobile games tied to their IP and should add to profit margins over time."
An industry in fluxMattel's push into digital comes as two of its flagship brands struggle to make sales.
"Barbie's been on a meaningful decline, as has Fisher-Price," Handler noted. "That's sort of been negating a lot of the good news that's been happening with Hot Wheels."
The vehicles division saw gross billings jump 11% in 2025, while the dolls segment fell 7% and the infant, toddler and preschool space slipped 17%.
That segment for the youngest consumers has been in decline for over a decade, the result of shrinking population growth and the fact that children are being introduced to electronics earlier in their development. Shifting play habits have meant toy makers have to adapt, and fast.
But there's hope for Mattel and the toy industry as a whole. In 2025, total annual dollar sales were up 6% in the U.S., according to data from Circana. And, perhaps more importantly, the number of units sold increased 3%, quelling fears that price-conscious consumers are pulling back on toy purchases.
"Unit sales being up, I think, is the most important metric we can look at," said James Zahn, senior editor of The Toy Insider and The Toy Book. "If unit sales were down, that's when you know people are really buying less, and that didn't happen."
Mattel and Hasbro, alongside other toy companies, are also expected to get a boost from a robust theatrical calendar this year.
Mattel has two of its own brands being represented at the box office with "Masters of the Universe" coming in June and "Matchbox" arriving in October. While Mattel won't see a major bump from ticket sales, its toy sales could get a boost. After all, the 2023 release of "Barbie" helped fuel a 16% increase in gross billings of the doll in the quarter after it hit cinemas.
Mattel also holds the master toy licenses for "Toy Story" and Disney princesses, meaning it'll handle the bulk of the product for "Toy Story 5" and the live-action "Moana."
Hasbro will have toy lines for "The Mandalorian and Grogu," "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" and "Avengers: Doomsday."
Together, Mattel and Hasbro have also collaborated on the much anticipated product line for Netflix's hit animated film "KPop Demon Hunters," promising dolls, foam roleplay items, games and plush items.
"'KPop Demon Hunters' is gonna do big business for both Hasbro and Mattel," Zahn said.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 05:2821d ago
XRP Community Convenes at Crypto Event, Ripple CEO Comments
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XRP holders, builders and creators hosted a community night event at the ongoing ETHDenver event, one that has attracted the attention of Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse on X.
The ETHDenver event marks a Web3 BUIDLathon and Innovation Festival convening over 25,000 builders and creators in the crypto industry, scheduled from Feb. 18 to 21, 2026.
Reacting to an X user's post about the XRP community night Denver gathering, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse tweeted: "love to see it."
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Speaking about the XRP community night Denver gathering, RippleX describes it as a "great evening with the community" while appreciating everyone who joined the event.
Earlier this month, Ripple hosted a successful XRP community day event that convened builders, creators and partners in the XRP Ledger ecosystem.
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A third stablecoin yield meeting took place at the White House this week with a small group representing crypto and banks attending, with Ripple represented at the event by its chief legal officer, Stuart Alderoty.
Ripple and XRPL newsIn recent news, SBI Ripple Asia has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on a technical support partnership with Asia Web3 Alliance Japan. This partnership will establish a framework in which SBI Ripple Asia will provide technical support to startups and businesses aiming to implement financial services using blockchain technology in society.
The XRP Ledger repository key has been updated ahead of a fix release. According to a recent notice on the XRPL blog, Ripple has rotated the GPG key used to sign rippled packages. Users are urged to download to prevent issues upgrading in the future, as automatic upgrades might not work until they have trusted the new key.
XRP Ledger users should add Ripple's package-signing GPG key and then verify the fingerprint of the newly-added key.
The XRPL Foundation stated that a fix is underway for the batch amendment bug and is undergoing additional validation before being included in a new XRP software update. It is currently preparing a release to formally deprecate the current batch amendments.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 05:3121d ago
Injective (INJ) Price Surges as Upgrade Approval and $2M Accumulation Reinforce Bullish Structure
The broader crypto market has regained footing this week, with Bitcoin holding key levels and select altcoins beginning to rotate higher. Amid that improving sentiment, Injective (INJ) has emerged as one of the stronger performers, climbing 11% today. The move comes at a technically sensitive moment, as price presses into a key resistance zone that previously capped upside attempts.
This time, however, the rally is not unfolding in isolation. A freshly approved mainnet upgrade and a disclosed $2 million accumulation have added fundamental weight behind the price action. The question now is whether this combination marks the start of a structural breakout, or simply a relief rally into supply.
Mainnet Upgrade Approval Strengthens Network ThesisEarlier this week, Injective’s community approved a significant mainnet upgrade proposal, marking an important operational milestone for the network. The upgrade focuses on enhancing execution efficiency, improving validator coordination, and strengthening overall performance across the ecosystem.
The Injective real-time EVM mainnet upgrade is now live!
This exponentially enhances the chain to provide all builders, institutions and users with the only purpose-built platform engineered from the ground up for lightning-fast payments, tokenization and finance. pic.twitter.com/vvJhaM6oJg
— Injective 🥷 (@injective) February 19, 2026 For a protocol built around high-performance decentralized finance infrastructure, such improvements are material. Execution speed, reliability, and scalability directly influence adoption and competitive positioning. Markets tend to reprice assets when tangible network enhancements move from proposal to implementation, particularly when those upgrades support broader ecosystem growth. The approval signals continued development momentum within Injective’s governance structure, an important credibility marker in an increasingly competitive Layer-1 and DeFi landscape.
$2M Allocation Adds Capital ConvictionAdding to the bullish undertone, Pineapple Financial reportedly disclosed a $2 million allocation into Injective (INJ). While modest relative to total market capitalization, treasury-style positioning often carries disproportionate signaling value.
UPDATE: Pineapple $PAPL has acquired an additional $2,000,000 in $INJ as part of our ongoing market cash purchase program.
The company maintains $20.79M in capital reserves for continued INJ accumulation. Our conviction in @injective remains unchanged.
🍍/acc pic.twitter.com/wURWustu8T
— Pineapple PAPL (@PAPLpineapple) February 19, 2026 Strategic capital entries typically reflect forward-looking conviction rather than short-term trading opportunism. The alignment of infrastructure improvement and visible capital deployment strengthens the perception that INJ’s recent gains are supported by more than speculative momentum.
In markets where narrative and capital often move together, this dual catalyst tends to reinforce structural confidence.
Injective (INJ) Price Structure Confirms Range BreakoutInjective price spent several weeks trading inside a clearly defined range between $2.80 and $3.60. The lower boundary near $2.80 acted as a crucial demand zone, absorbing selling pressure multiple times, while the $3.60 level consistently capped rallies. However, this time, the token succeeded in breaching the cage and moved past the $3.60 threshold. Currently, INJ price is testing the $3.80-$4.00 range, which represents a range breakout.
A sustained daily close above $4.20 would invalidate the prior lower-high pattern and shift the structure from range-bound to expansionary. Based on the width of the previous consolidation range, the measured extension projects toward the $4.80–$5.00 area, with further liquidity pockets visible near $6.00–$6.20.
On the downside, the structure remains constructive as long as INJ holds above $3.35, with broader demand resting near $2.95–$3.00. A breakdown below those levels would return price into consolidation territory and delay the expansion thesis.
Final ThoughtsInjective is positioned at a technically significant inflection point, supported by both development progress and visible capital allocation. The rally is occurring precisely where structural confirmation is required, not in overextended territory. If the $4.20 resistance converts into support in the coming sessions, the move may evolve into a sustained breakout phase rather than a temporary rebound. Failure to clear that zone would likely result in continued consolidation within the broader range.
For now, Injective stands out as a token where governance progress, capital inflow, and improving technical structure are moving in alignment. The next decisive close will determine whether this alignment translates into a confirmed expansion.
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XRP sentiment remains cautiously optimistic as Ripple’s strategic partner SBI Holdings unveiled plans to issue $64.5 million in on-chain bonds that reward investors with XRP. While the token has been trading in a narrow range between $1.40 and $1.45, the announcement adds a stronger utility narrative at a time when broader crypto markets are seeking institutional validation.
Rather than relying purely on speculative momentum, XRP’s latest catalyst centers on structured financial products built directly on blockchain infrastructure.
Inside SBI’s On-Chain Bond PlanSBI Holdings confirmed it will launch its first Series ST bonds fully issued, settled, and administered on-chain. The bonds are designed specifically for retail investors and will use digital registration via the ibet for Fin platform developed by BOOSTRY. Trading will occur on the Osaka Digital Exchange’s START system, with secondary trading expected to begin in March 2026.
Interestingly, as per the reward structure, the investors will receive XRP tokens equivalent to their subscription amount after confirmation, provided they meet eligibility requirements. Additional XRP distributions will follow on scheduled interest payment dates through 2029.
By embedding XRP directly into a regulated bond product, SBI is positioning the token within traditional finance structures rather than leaving it solely in the spot trading arena.
Potential Impact for XRPThe potential implications are significant. Some analysts within the XRP community argue that increased demand for the bonds could require consistent XRP purchases to fund subscription rewards and ongoing payouts. If participation grows, this mechanism could generate sustained structural demand for the token.
One X User, Jay Nisbett, linked the initiative to Japan’s yen carry trade dynamic, where investors borrow yen at relatively low rates and allocate capital into higher-yielding assets. In that context, an XRP-linked bond product could channel additional liquidity into instruments tied to the token.
There is also speculation that SBI could scale the $65 million issuance if demand proves strong. Expanding the offering to attract institutional investors would further embed XRP into structured financial products, potentially accelerating institutional adoption beyond simple exchange trading.
While price action remains steady for now, SBI’s bond initiative may serve as a foundational step in expanding XRP’s integration into mainstream financial systems.
Never Miss a Beat in the Crypto World!Stay ahead with breaking news, expert analysis, and real-time updates on the latest trends in Bitcoin, altcoins, DeFi, NFTs, and more.
FAQsWhat is SBI Holdings’ XRP on-chain bond plan?
SBI will issue $64.5M in fully on-chain bonds, rewarding eligible retail investors with XRP at subscription and on interest dates through 2029.
Why is SBI’s bond launch important for XRP adoption?
It embeds XRP in a regulated financial product, boosting real-world utility and supporting institutional credibility beyond trading.
Could SBI’s bond issuance increase XRP demand?
Yes. If subscriptions grow, XRP may need to be purchased for rewards and payouts, creating ongoing structural demand.
When will SBI’s XRP-linked bonds begin trading?
Secondary trading is expected to start in March 2026 on the Osaka Digital Exchange’s START system.
Trust with CoinPedia:CoinPedia has been delivering accurate and timely cryptocurrency and blockchain updates since 2017. All content is created by our expert panel of analysts and journalists, following strict Editorial Guidelines based on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). Every article is fact-checked against reputable sources to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Our review policy guarantees unbiased evaluations when recommending exchanges, platforms, or tools. We strive to provide timely updates about everything crypto & blockchain, right from startups to industry majors.
Investment Disclaimer:All opinions and insights shared represent the author's own views on current market conditions. Please do your own research before making investment decisions. Neither the writer nor the publication assumes responsibility for your financial choices.
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Aside from ETC, the other notable gainers today include FIL, NEAR, and ARB.
Bitcoin’s price felt some volatility after yesterday’s developments on the tariff front, but ultimately recovered from the dip and now sits around $68,000.
Most larger-cap alts are with minor gains today, while DOT, UNI, and NEAR have emerged as the top performers from this cohort of assets.
BTC Above $68K The primary cryptocurrency rallied unexpectedly last weekend after it defended the $65,000 support. The bulls initiated a leg up that drove the asset to almost $71,000 for the first time in about a week. However, that was another short-lived attempt, and BTC quickly started to lose value during the business week.
It was stopped once again at $70,000 on Monday, and the next few days brought some more pain. The aulmination took place on Thursday when the bears pushed bitcoin down to $65,600. Its reaction was positive at this point, and it quickly rebounded by three grand.
More volatility ensued on Friday after the US Supreme Court ruled that some of Trump’s tariffs were illegal. The POTUS responded immediately and imposed an additional 10% global tariff on top of the existing ones. BTC dropped by $2,000 in minutes, but recovered just as quickly, and now trades above $68,000 once again.
Its market capitalization has climbed above $1.360 trillion, while its dominance over the alts on CG stands close to 56.5%.
BTCUSD Feb 21. Source: TradingView ETC Pumps ETH, XRP, SOL, and TRX have all posted minor gains of under 1% daily. As a result, Ethereum continues to struggle below $2,000, while XRP is close to $1.45. BCH and HYPE have marked more impressive gains from the larger caps.
Even more impressive price increases come from DOT, UNI, and NEAR, with gains of up to 8% in the case of Near Protocol’s native token. Nevertheless, Ethereum Classic has soared the most today, rocketing by 16% to $9.7. FIL and ARB follow suit.
The total crypto market cap has reclaimed the $2.4 trillion mark on CG and is up to $2.415 trillion as of press time.
Cryptocurrency Market Overview Feb 21. Source QuantifyCrypto
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 05:4921d ago
Bitcoin Price To Dip $40K By Nov 2026, Here's Why!
Bitcoin, the world’s largest cryptocurrency, has been struggling lately to recover after falling from its all-time high of $126K to around $67K, marking nearly a 50% decline.
While crypto traders eagerly wait for the market to recover, historical data suggest that the Bitcoin price will drop to $40K by no 2026.
Let’s see here’s why!
Why Bitcoin Value Could Fall to $40K?Bitcoin has a history of very deep corrections after reaching new highs. For example, in 2011, BTC value jumped from $1 to $30, only to correct 93% to below $5. In 2015, it fell 85% from $1,100 to $150 after Mt. Gox collapsed.
In 2018, the Bitcoin price further dipped by 84% from $20K to around $3100 as investors booked profits.
Similarly, in 2022, BTC fell by 77% from $69K to around $16K after Tesla decided to stop accepting BTC as a payment, which weakened the market confidence.
In this new cycle, Bitcoin already hit a new ATH of $126K in Oct 2025 and is now trading at $67K, down by 50%.
Therefore, if Bitcoin follows its past historical pattern, then BTC will surely dip to 70% from its peak, which will cause the BTC price to reach the $40,000 level.
Market Cycle Predict Bitcoin To Drop To $40K by NovMarket cycle psychology also supports this bearish outlook. Looking at the Wall Street Cheat Sheet, it shows how Bitcoin moves through emotional stages.
Bitcoin reached a high of $126K during the Euphoria stage, when investors were very excited and expected higher prices. Later, Bitcoin entered the stages of Complacency and Anxiety, where prices dropped, but most thought it was only a normal drop to around $97,620 in Jan 2026.
Currently, Bitcoin is entering the Anger and early Depression stage, where fear, frustration, and heavy selling dominate.
In past cycles, this stage often led to a final bottom, and this time, bitcoin will drop to near $40K, possibly by Nov 2026.
After the bottom forms, Bitcoin usually enters the Disbelief and Recovery stages, where prices slowly rise, and a new bull run begins.
Bitcoin Halving Cycle Could Invalidate Historical TrendMeanwhile, the Bitcoin halving cycle could change this perspective. Because Bitcoin has always peaked after 12 to 18 months after each halving due to a reduction in supply and rising demand.
After the last BTC halving took place in 2024, Bitcoin may soon enter a strong rally phase by mid-2026, which might invalidate this historical trend.
Trust with CoinPedia:CoinPedia has been delivering accurate and timely cryptocurrency and blockchain updates since 2017. All content is created by our expert panel of analysts and journalists, following strict Editorial Guidelines based on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). Every article is fact-checked against reputable sources to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Our review policy guarantees unbiased evaluations when recommending exchanges, platforms, or tools. We strive to provide timely updates about everything crypto & blockchain, right from startups to industry majors.
Investment Disclaimer:All opinions and insights shared represent the author's own views on current market conditions. Please do your own research before making investment decisions. Neither the writer nor the publication assumes responsibility for your financial choices.
Sponsored and Advertisements:Sponsored content and affiliate links may appear on our site. Advertisements are marked clearly, and our editorial content remains entirely independent from our ad partners.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 05:5121d ago
Bitcoin Mining Difficulty Climbs 15% After Sharp February Drop
Bitcoin mining difficulty has increased by approximately 15% to 144.4 trillion, according to data from CoinWarz as of February 20. The adjustment fully recovers the 11% decline recorded earlier this month – the steepest drop since China’s mining ban in 2021.
The previous decline followed severe winter storms across the United States in late January. The extreme weather disrupted power grids and forced major mining operations to temporarily shut down equipment. Network hashrate fell to roughly 198 exahashes per second (EH/s) from nearly 400 EH/s before gradually recovering as facilities came back online.
How Difficulty Adjustment Restored BalanceBitcoin adjusts mining difficulty every 2,016 blocks, roughly every two weeks to maintain an average block time of ten minutes. When hashrate drops sharply, as it did during the storms, the protocol lowers difficulty to keep block production stable. When computing power returns, difficulty increases again.
As American miners resumed operations after weather conditions stabilized, total network hashrate climbed. The algorithm responded with a 15% upward adjustment, restoring mining conditions to levels seen before the disruption.
While higher difficulty strengthens network security, it also increases operational pressure on miners. Generating block rewards becomes more computationally expensive, squeezing margins for operators already managing tight energy costs.
Miners Turned Downtime Into RevenueInterestingly, forced shutdowns did not necessarily translate into losses. Many US-based miners participate in demand response programs, allowing them to sell contracted electricity back to the grid during peak pricing events.
LM Funding America reported redirecting power to the grid during Storm Fern and over the weekend, generating income that exceeded a quarter of its typical quarterly revenue from energy supply and consumption reduction programs.
Mining equipment manufacturer Canaan Inc., which operates facilities in the United States, also confirmed that its sites reduced power consumption in coordination with grid partners during storm-related stress periods.
US Remains the Center of Global Mining PowerSince China’s 2021 mining ban, the United States has become the largest global Bitcoin mining hub. Large-scale operations are concentrated in states such as Texas and Georgia, benefiting from favorable regulations and energy infrastructure.
According to data from the Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance, the United States accounts for more than one-third of global Bitcoin hashrate.
The January storm highlighted both vulnerability and adaptability. Geographic concentration means extreme weather can temporarily disrupt global mining output. Yet the rapid recovery to 144.4 trillion difficulty demonstrates how quickly the network can stabilize once conditions normalize.
The episode underscores a broader structural dynamic: Bitcoin mining has become deeply intertwined with regional energy systems. While that creates exposure to local disruptions, it also positions miners as flexible energy participants capable of balancing grid demand during crises.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 05:5321d ago
Uzbekistan enters Central Asia's BTC mining industry with first license approval
Uzbekistan has for the first time issued a permit to mine cryptocurrency in its territory, entering the region’s expanding coin minting market.
The move puts an end to months of uncertainty, the newly licensed miner said, promising to “build the infrastructure of the future” in the country.
Uzbekistan greenlights its first legal crypto mining project The Central Asian nation of Uzbekistan has issued its first permit for cryptocurrency mining to a private company, which plans to base its operations in the southwest Bukhara region.
The mining firm, NexaGrid, has received the official authorization from the National Agency of Perspective Projects (NAPP) this week, local media reported late Friday.
The government body, which is directly subordinated to Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s administration, is tasked with enforcing crypto regulations and licensing.
The Tashkent-registered company was established in April 2025, with a statutory capital of 600 million Uzbekistani sums (around $50,000).
In comments quoted by the news outlets Spot and UZ Daily, one of its two founders, Toymurod Sultonov, emphasized that his entity received the permit in a transparent procedure.
In a celebratory post on the professional social network LinkedIn, the former civil servant and textile marketing analyst, turned crypto entrepreneur, also stressed:
“This isn’t just about Bitcoin. It’s about the courage to go where no one has gone before. It’s about months of uncertainty, about the question ‘Why do you need this?’ It’s about risk, pressure, and silence, when no one else believes.”
Private company to pioneer crypto mining in Uzbekistan Sultonov, who has 63% of Uzbekistan’s first licensed mining business, will be managing the enterprise, which will be set up in the Romitan district, with the help of his partner, Makhmudjon Rozimurodov, who owns 37% of its stock.
Commenting further on the positive development, the new crypto executive also noted:
“NexaGrid wasn’t born out of hype — it was born from the idea of building the infrastructure of the future here in Central Asia, where they usually say ‘it’s too early.’”
The move is a significant step for Uzbekistan, which joins Central Asia’s growing crypto mining sector late and needs to catch up with some of its neighbors like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan.
It has been more than two years since the NAPP adopted rules for issuing permits for digital currency mining in the fall of 2023. As per a report by its deputy head, Vyacheslav Pak, there were no legal crypto farms registered in the country in the years that followed.
According to the regulations, legal entities can apply for authorization, provided they have a dedicated mining site that complies with safety standards.
Companies are encouraged to use power generated by their own photovoltaic installations, and when they connect to the public grid, a separate meter must be installed.
Miners are required to thoroughly inform the NAPP about all their activities and file transaction reports. Hidden mining and the minting of anonymous crypto assets are strictly prohibited.
Their license applications must provide detailed information about the solar power plant and any electricity supply agreements, the technical specifications of the mining hardware, including its energy rating, as well as a list of the cryptocurrencies that will be minted and the addresses of the crypto wallets used.
Submission of incomplete data and non-compliance with other relevant regulations may result in rejection of the application if the deficiencies are not corrected within a month after they have been established by Uzbek officials.
Following a 15-day fee-free review process, permits are issued in the form of electronic certificates with QR codes. The licenses are valid for a period of five years, but can be suspended in case of violations for up to six months and even revoked by court order.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 05:5821d ago
Bitcoin Is Dead Searches Hit Post-FTX High as $70M in Liquidations Rock BTC
Google Trends data recorded a sharp rise in searches for “Bitcoin is dead” on Friday, reaching the highest level seen since the FTX collapse. The move occurred while Bitcoin price traded near the upper end of its current cycle range, keeping the asset in focus even as online interest shifted toward a more negative framing.
The spike in search activity circulated widely among traders and indicates how quickly sentiment is changing during periods of market tension. Also, renewed attention appeared alongside active discussion across social platforms, where participants monitored whether pessimism was growing despite Bitcoin holding near key levels.
Changpeng Zhao, co-founder of Binance, reacted publicly to the trend data after it was shared on social media. He reposted commentary about the spike in “Bitcoin is dead” searches and asked whether it should be interpreted as a negative or positive signal.
Online discussion also showed some market participants looking beyond Bitcoin as the main driver of near-term interest, with attention spreading to other large-cap tokens and higher-volatility segments. The broader conversation remained active even as Bitcoin price action stayed close to established support.
BTC Whale Transfers and Derivatives Activity On-chain monitoring accounts reported notable activity from large holders. According to the tracking data, a wallet transferred 11,318 BTC to Binance, about 60% of its Bitcoin holdings. The same coverage said the whale later moved out USDT via multiple new addresses, while leaving a remaining Bitcoin balance on the exchange.
Derivatives indicators also pointed to elevated positioning. Coinglass data showed more than $70 million in Bitcoin liquidations over the prior 24 hours, suggesting pressure tied to leveraged trading rather than broad spot selling.
At the time of reporting, Bitcoin (BTC) traded at $68,175, down 2.01% in the last seven days, while retail sentiment readings remained bearish.
Technical Levels Tighten as ETFs and Leverage Stay in ViewSeparate market analysis noted Bitcoin’s rebound since but warned that support levels were clustered closely beneath the current price. The chart structures on an 8-hour timeframe point to a supply zone based on UTXO realized price distribution data, with a large concentration above $66,800 and another cluster near $65,636.
UTXO Realized Price Distribution | Source: Glassnode
Moreover, the analysis noted that open interest rose during the bounce, rising from about $19.54 billion to roughly $20.71 billion, while funding rates turned positive. Also, there have been five consecutive weeks of net outflows from spot Bitcoin ETFs, indicating that institutional demand has not returned during the recovery. Therefore, despite the "Bitcoin is dead" narrative, analysts listed supports around $67,300, $66,500, and $65,300, with a deeper level near $60,800 in the event of further weakness.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 05:5821d ago
Vitalik Calls for ‘Cypherpunk Principled Non-Ugly Ethereum' as Bolt-On Upgrade
Vitalik Buterin laid a foundation for a “cypherpunk-principled, non-ugly Ethereum” that reinforces privacy and censorship resistance, while remaining tightly integrated with the existing network. Buterin highlights FOCIL hardening efforts, including security testing and post-quantum readiness, which are a part of Ethereum’s strengthening plans for 2026. Ethereum’s next chapter is envisioned by Vitalik, which is a ‘cypherpunk upgrade’ and not as a replacement chain, but as a tightly integrated evolution of the existing system.
On February 20, Vitalik Buterin mentioned his ambitious vision for Ethereum in a response to an X post, which said, “Vitalik should let the original ethereum die a slow and painful death by fragmentation (tempo, reth, l2s, app chains, institutions, etc) and rebuild it as a cypherpunk chain from first principles on risc v just to show who was the boss.”
Building on Ethereum, Not a New Chain Buterin had dismissed the idea of abandoning the current Ethereum network due to issues such as fragmentation caused by layer-2 solutions and institutional influence. Rather, he proposed building a “cypherpunk principled non-ugly Ethereum” as a tightly integrated “bolt-on” addition to the existing system.
Which means, he aims to build a simpler version, a more privacy-focused framework that interoperates with today’s Ethereum by adding more features, such as stronger censorship resistance, zero-knowledge proof compatibility, and simpler consensus.
Buterin also said that this newly set system can allow smart contracts to be rewritten in a more elegant, verifiable language, using AI tools, that potentially reshapes how developers and users interact with Ethereum in the next five years.
Further, Buterin echoed the confidence by saying, “Ethereum has already made jet engine changes in-flight once (the merge), we can do it ~4 times more!”
Strengthening Ethereum for 2026 Previously, the Ethereum Foundation released its protocol priorities for the year 2026, in which they mentioned there are three new tracks to be focussed such as scaling, improving UX, and hardening the chain. With that, on Thursday, Buterin wrote about Fork-Choice Enforced Inclusion Lists (FOCIL) as a major step toward strengthening Ethereum.
Also, on Friday, Buterin wrote that the 2026 upgrade includes network security testing, post-quantum readiness, and mentioned. “Ethereum will emerge from the year a far stronger, more powerful, and more self-sovereign protocol than what it was entering this year.”
Highlighted Crypto News:
Bitcoin Below $70K: Ecoinometrics Warns of Further Downside
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 05:5921d ago
Why Bitcoin's 47% Drop From $126K Is Not the Crisis It Appears to Be
TLDR: Bitcoin’s cycle bottoms have grown shallower each time, falling from -92.7% in 2011 to -68.5% in 2022. BTC is currently 47% below its October 2025 ATH of $126K, with Fear and Greed at single digits. Green drawdown days near all-time highs are growing faster than red days for the first time in Bitcoin’s history. Comparing the 2025 selloff to 2018 may be the wrong framework, as structural data points to a maturing asset. The latest Bitcoin selloff has renewed fears of a prolonged bear market, but historical drawdown data suggests this cycle may not follow the same path as those before it.
Bitcoin currently trades roughly 47% below its October 2025 all-time high of $126,000. Fear and Greed readings sit at single digits.
Yet 15 years of drawdown data, when mapped against the present, paints a different picture from what many traders are expecting.
Past Cycles Carried Far Deeper and Longer Drawdowns In 2011, Bitcoin collapsed 92.7% from its peak. Nearly every day of its young existence was spent deep in drawdown territory.
The 2013–2015 cycle followed with a 72% decline, adding over 1,500 days of brutal losses to the historical record.
By 2017, Bitcoin had logged more than 2,500 drawdown days, and red still dominated the distribution chart. The 2018 bear market then pushed losses to 78.4%, reinforcing the same deep correction band between -60% and -80%. Those cycles defined what analyst Sminston With described as “the old Bitcoin.”
Bitcoin is down ~47% from its October 2025 ATH of $126K. Fear & Greed at single digits. "BTC to zero” Google searches at 5-year highs. ETF outflows mounting. People are calling for $40K, even $25K.
So I animated 15 years of drawdown data to put this moment in context.
– – -… pic.twitter.com/9Ar8FHFZVx
— Sminston With 👁 (@sminston_with) February 20, 2026
The critical pattern across all those cycles, however, is one of gradual improvement. Each successive bottom came in shallower than the one before it.
The sequence runs as follows: -92.7%, -87%, -84%, -77%, and then -68.5% in 2022. That consistent upward shift in the floor is not coincidental.
The current selloff, sitting at approximately -47%, has not yet approached any of those prior cycle bottoms. That alone separates this moment from what traders experienced in 2018 or 2015, even if sentiment feels comparable.
Structural Shifts in How Bitcoin Spends Its Time After the 2021 bull cycle, a measurable change appeared in the drawdown distribution. Green bars, representing days spent within 0% to -15% of an all-time high, began growing at a faster rate than any prior period. Bitcoin was simply spending more time near its highs than it ever had before.
Sminston With noted that “green-white oscillations are replacing the deep red plunges,” referring to the shift away from the severe, prolonged corrections that once dominated Bitcoin’s history.
The transition zone between -15% and -35% has also grown, with Bitcoin spending close to 90 days there following the October 2025 peak.
This does not mean further downside is impossible. Some market participants are still calling for $40,000 or even $25,000.
However, the data shows that Bitcoin’s worst drawdowns have been getting structurally shallower, cycle after cycle, and the time spent near all-time highs has been growing.
The question the data raises is straightforward. If each cycle bottom has come in less severe than the last, and if Bitcoin is spending more time in the green regime than ever before, then comparing 2025 to 2018 may simply be the wrong framework for this moment.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 06:0021d ago
Polygon holds KEY support after 100M POL burn: What's next?
Polygon [POL] continued to trade within a thin margin, still holding the $0.10 support level. The altcoin flipped its short-term moving average EMA20, signaling strengthening momentum.
At the time of writing, POL traded at $0.108, up 4.06% on the daily charts. This slight price uptick was backed by a 17% jump in trading volume, indicating increased on-chain activity.
Polygon burns 100M tokens With POL struggling to hold an upside momentum, Polygon has continued to deploy its major deflationary tool to absorb market pressure.
According to the official report, Polygon has achieved a major milestone, burning 100 million POL. Typically, token burns help shrink the circulating supply, reduce inflation, and thus accelerate an asset’s upside momentum.
Even more importantly, sustained token burns reflect higher fees and network revenue, a sign of increased network usage and adoption.
Source: Defillama
In fact, at the time of writing, Daily Fees and Revenue have stabilized above $200k, with App Fees holding above $500k. When network revenue continues to rise, it suggests higher network participation and actual demand.
A network with sustained demand can boost its native token, potentially driving prices higher.
Any impact on POL price action? In the short term, Polygon’s token burns have tended to positively impact POL’s price, as the altcoin slightly jumped from the lower boundary.
Notably, the altcoin’s Stochastic RSI made a bullish crossover and rose to 88.27 as of writing, although its signal line remained around 88.
Source: TradingView
With Stoch rising to such levels, it suggested strong upside momentum as demand stepped into the market. However, the signal remained roughly the same, suggesting a strong seller presence.
Such market conditions indicate a fierce struggle between bulls and bears for market control. For a bullish takeover, POL buyers must push for a daily close above the EMA 20 and EMA 50 at $0.11, setting up a move towards $0.12.
However, if the momentum turns short-lived and sellers cash out these minor gains, the altcoin will pull back towards $0.106.
Inflo remains elevated Interestingly, despite continued token burns, POL’s inflation remains extremely elevated, signaling higher sell pressure. According to Santiment data, the altcoin’s Stock-to-Flow Ratio continued to decline, falling to 8.6 at press time.
Source: Santiment
A drop in SFR suggests low scarcity and increased immediate supply. A high supply presents a significant selling pressure in the market.
Even more so, the altcoin’s Exchange Supply Ratio surged to a monthly high of 0.003. When ESR rises, it suggests that a significant amount of Polygon has recently flowed into exchanges.
Source: CryptoQuant
Therefore, sellers are more active than buyers on exchanges, further straining the already overwhelmed market. Typically, such market conditions tend to accelerate downside momentum, leading to lower prices.
Final Summary Polygon reaches a major deflationary milestone by burning 100 million POL tokens, though inflation remains elevated. POL rose 4% on daily charts, flipping EMA20, indicating short-term bullish momentum.
Markets got wild news. An artificial intelligence system called Claude just dropped price targets for three major cryptocurrencies, and the numbers are pretty aggressive for where things could go by the end of 2026.
The AI model released its forecasts on February 20, targeting XRP at $1.50 from its current $0.50 price point. Solana could triple from $22 to $60, while Dogecoin might jump from $0.08 to $0.20. Claude crunches historical data and market sentiment to generate these projections, and traders are paying attention since crypto markets stay notoriously unpredictable. The system analyzes massive datasets, but even advanced algorithms struggle with crypto’s wild swings and sudden reversals that can wipe out gains in hours.
Volatility stays brutal though.
Market sentiment drives everything in this space, and positive vibes from regulatory clarity or tech breakthroughs can send prices flying. But regulatory crackdowns hit just as hard in the opposite direction. Governments worldwide still can’t figure out how to handle digital currencies properly, which creates uncertainty that makes traders nervous. The regulatory landscape remains murky, with potential policy changes that could tank these predictions overnight.
Tech developments matter too. Blockchain advances boost confidence and drive adoption, which usually means higher prices. But there’s no guarantee these improvements will happen on schedule or deliver the expected impact.
Claude’s forecasts caught crypto analyst Sarah Lindstrom’s attention. “While AI models like Claude offer intriguing forecasts, they should be one of many tools investors use,” Lindstrom said on February 21. She thinks investors need to cross-reference AI insights with fundamental analysis instead of relying on one source.
Some traders aren’t buying it. John Patel, who’s been trading crypto for years, remembers when AI models missed big moves. “We’ve seen models miss the mark before,” Patel said, pointing to past AI predictions that never materialized. He tells people to stay cautious and not bet everything on AI data.
Crypto exchanges like Binance and Coinbase are watching closely. Both platforms saw increased trading volumes in XRP and Solana after Claude’s projections hit the market. Some traders are already acting on the AI’s expectations, despite the obvious risks involved. The activity suggests people are taking these forecasts seriously, even though past performance shows AI predictions can fail spectacularly. This follows earlier reporting on AI Agents Start Using XRP and.
Chainalysis reported a surge in Solana’s on-chain activity on February 22. Transaction volume jumped 30% over the past week, possibly driven by investor interest following Claude’s predictions. The uptick might signal growing confidence among traders, but it’s unclear if this trend can sustain itself. Market participants know that initial excitement often fades when reality sets in.
XRP Labs announced a partnership with a major financial institution on February 23. The collaboration aims to enhance cross-border payment solutions using XRP’s blockchain technology. Market analysts see this development as a potential catalyst for the projected price increase, though partnerships don’t always translate to price gains.
Dogecoin’s community stays skeptical of AI forecasts. Elon Musk tweeted on February 24 that while AI provides interesting insights, the meme coin’s value often defies conventional predictions. His remarks reflect Dogecoin’s unpredictable nature, which has seen dramatic price swings that make traditional analysis pretty much useless.
Crypto analyst James Kim expressed caution in a recent interview on February 25. Kim pointed out that AI offers advanced analysis, but human factors like investor behavior and market sentiment can significantly influence price movements. He advised traders to consider multiple information sources when making investment decisions, not just AI predictions.
Kraken reported a notable uptick in XRP trading volume on February 26. The surge followed Claude’s predictions, with a 25% increase observed within 48 hours of the AI’s announcement. Kraken’s spokesperson said the growing interest in XRP shows traders responding to potential future gains, though volume spikes don’t guarantee sustained price movement.
Ripple announced an expansion into the Asian market on February 27. CEO Brad Garlinghouse said the expansion aims to tap into the region’s demand for efficient cross-border payment solutions. The strategic move could support XRP’s projected price increase, but market expansion takes time to show results. See also: Ripple CEO Says Crypto Bill Has.
Solana Labs introduced a new developer toolkit on February 28, designed to streamline decentralized application creation. Co-founder Anatoly Yakovenko said supporting developers enhances network adoption and growth. The initiative might contribute to Solana’s predicted price rise, though developer tools don’t immediately impact prices.
The Dogecoin Foundation launched a charity initiative on February 29, leveraging the coin’s popularity for social impact. While not directly linked to price forecasts, the project shows Dogecoin’s unique position as a community-driven asset. Community initiatives sometimes boost sentiment, but they rarely move prices significantly.
No regulatory bodies have commented on Claude’s predictions yet. Trading volumes across all three cryptocurrencies remain elevated compared to pre-announcement levels.
Institutional investors are starting to take notice of AI-driven crypto analysis. Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan recently allocated resources to study algorithmic trading signals in digital assets, though neither bank has publicly endorsed Claude’s specific projections. Hedge funds like Pantera Capital and Galaxy Digital have integrated similar AI tools into their trading strategies, suggesting the traditional finance world sees value in machine learning approaches to crypto markets.
Meanwhile, competing AI models from firms like Chainalysis and Messari are producing different price targets for the same cryptocurrencies. Messari’s AI system projects XRP reaching only $1.20 by 2026, while Chainalysis suggests Solana could hit $75 during the same timeframe. These conflicting forecasts highlight the uncertainty inherent in AI predictions and raise questions about which algorithms traders should trust when making investment decisions.
Post Views: 15
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 06:1721d ago
Ethereum (ETH) Forms a Bullish Flag, But There's a Major Catch: Analyst
Is ETH finally going to rebound decisively, or will there be another crash to new lows.
Ethereum continues to struggle to reclaim the coveted $2,000 psychological level, as each attempt to do so results in a subsequent rejection and correction.
Popular analyst Ali Martinez weighed in on the asset’s recent performance and explained that it’s forming a bullish flag. However, there’s a major catch in his post, which could actually mean trouble ahead for ETH.
Ethereum $ETH is forming a bullish flag!
There’s just one twist… The chart is inverted. pic.twitter.com/Kb8eamJOMF
— Ali Charts (@alicharts) February 20, 2026
The “inverted” bullish flag shows that ETH has actually been in a consistent downtrend for weeks, but it has managed to compress within a tighter range more recently. Martinez believes a bigger move is in the making, but it could push the asset to new local lows of under $1,400.
Daan Crypto Trades also brought up ETH’s underwhelming performance as of late, indicating that the start of 2026 has been worse than how it moved in early 2025.
The analyst outlined hopes that the largest altcoin could finally rebound in the following few months, since the March-to-May period is historically more beneficial for it.
$ETH Has started the year of worse than last year so far. Historically, March through May are good months for ETH.
But we know how the market is all over the place recently and that there’s been pretty much zero correlation with other risk assets.
This makes for an awful… pic.twitter.com/CBAfLTduHx
— Daan Crypto Trades (@DaanCrypto) February 21, 2026
You may also like: Peter Thiel Exits ETHZilla, Company Sells $74.5M in ETH Amid Market Pressure Ethereum Is Neutral, People Aren’t: Vitalik Buterin Draws a Clear Line Tom Lee Says Ethereum Has Never Failed This Pattern and Expects Another V-Shaped Recovery Another unfavorable development within the Ethereum investor ecosystem is the net flows within the spot ETH ETFs. Last week was in the red once again, with roughly $113 million leaving the funds.
On the opposite side, BitMine continues to accumulate. The Tom Lee-chaired company bought another 45,759 ETH last week, and now holds 4,371,497 tokens, valued at almost $8.7 billion. The company is down $8 billion on its Ethereum position, given its average entry cost of $3,820.
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About the author
Jordan got into crypto in 2016 by trading and investing. He began writing about blockchain technology in 2017 and now serves as CryptoPotato's Assistant Editor-in-Chief. He has managed numerous crypto-related projects and is passionate about all things blockchain.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 06:1721d ago
Bitcoin Bear Market Bottom or Another Leg Down? 5 Signals That Will Decide
Bitcoin is trading near $68,240, down 45% from its October 2025 all-time high of $126,000. The Crypto Fear and Greed Index sits at 14. Five consecutive negative monthly closes are about to print, a streak that has only occurred three times in Bitcoin's entire history.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 06:2521d ago
Top Bluechip Crypto Flash Undervalued Signals: Is Is a Relief Rally Brewing in BTC, ETH, XRP, ADA, & LINK?
Top bluechip crypto assets are heading into the weekend flashing something traders rarely ignore these are negative 30-day MVRV readings. Ethereum sits at -14.3%, while Bitcoin follows at -6.9%, with Chainlink (-5.1%), XRP (-4.1%), and Cardano (-2.0%) close behind.
In simple? Average trader returns are below zero. That doesn’t guarantee a bounce. But it does change the risk calculus.
MVRV Says “Discount” in Top Bluechip Crypto AssetsSantiment’s 30-day MVRV isn’t hype-driven. It simply measures average returns over the last month and signals when assets drift into undervalued or overvalued territory. And right now, the message is blunt, as onchain chart shows large caps are sitting below their usual neutral zone.
Ethereum is the most discounted of the group. That -14.3% figure implies short-term holders are deep enough underwater to historically tilt conditions toward relief moves.
Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s -6.9% suggests milder pressure, but still below equilibrium. LINK/USD, XRP/USD, and ADA/USD are also slightly negative but not extreme, yet far from overheated.
Well, undervalued doesn’t automatically mean instant rally. But, it means positioning risk skews differently.
Momentum Still BTC & ETH-LedTechnically speaking, correlation remains obvious. The Bitcoin price chart and ETH/USD structure continue to dictate broader bluechip behavior, even in 2026.
Also, XRP price prediction chatter on social platforms like X, and Cardano price prediction threads, and even Chainlink price prediction setups all are discusssed in correlation to first born crypto’s even today. Even on price action these tend to shadow whatever direction BTC/USD and ETH/USD establish first.
Despite distinct fundamentals and ecosystems, these five assets are moving in similar momentum waves. When the first movers consolidate, the rest pause. When they expand, liquidity rotates outward.
So yes, there’s slight divergence in absolute price levels. But trend timing? Strikingly aligned.
Relief Rally Levels to WatchShort-term projections put potential relief levels around $98,737 for BTC/USD, $3,474 for ETH/USD, $2.37 for XRP/USD, $0.49 for ADA/USD, and $14.84 for LINK/USD. These aren’t moon targets but they’re structural resistance markers.
If reclaimed and consolidated above, long-term sentiment would flip more constructive. But, if rejected, the reset phase extends and lower lows remain possible in all top 5.
And that’s the uncomfortable part. Because while MVRV says “discount,” price structure says “prove it.”
Additionally, the Accumulation-style consolidation has been visible across the board in 2026. But Top bluechip crypto trends won’t sustainably pivot unless leadership breaks decisively. Until then, undervalued readings reflect opportunity and risk in equal measure.
Trust with CoinPedia:CoinPedia has been delivering accurate and timely cryptocurrency and blockchain updates since 2017. All content is created by our expert panel of analysts and journalists, following strict Editorial Guidelines based on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). Every article is fact-checked against reputable sources to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Our review policy guarantees unbiased evaluations when recommending exchanges, platforms, or tools. We strive to provide timely updates about everything crypto & blockchain, right from startups to industry majors.
Investment Disclaimer:All opinions and insights shared represent the author's own views on current market conditions. Please do your own research before making investment decisions. Neither the writer nor the publication assumes responsibility for your financial choices.
Sponsored and Advertisements:Sponsored content and affiliate links may appear on our site. Advertisements are marked clearly, and our editorial content remains entirely independent from our ad partners.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 06:3121d ago
Uniswap CEO Warns of Scam Ads After $370M January Crypto Losses
The amount of cryptocurrency swept via exploits and scams was $370.3 million in January, the biggest monthly figure in 11 months. CertiK mentioned that out of the 40 exploits and scams witnessed in January, the major portion of the total value stolen came from one victim. The chief executive officer of Uniswap, Hayden Adams, has alerted users regarding fraud ads mimicking the platform, underscoring a case in which someone reportedly lost everything. It comes following the highest amount of funds stolen in crypto scams in January in 11 months.
He also mentioned that scam ads keep returning regardless of years of reporting, and there were scam Uniswap apps while we waited months for App Store approval, Adams mentioned in an X post on February 20.
He further went on, mentioning that scammers are increasingly purchasing ads on famous search engines, targeting keywords such as “Uniswap”, so when any user searches it, the top result seems official.
Unsuspecting users may then associate their wallets and approve a transaction, permitting scammers to take out their complete funds.
User Shares His Story A social media user named “Ika” mentioned in an X article named “I lost everything, what’s next?” that his crypto wallet contained a mid-six-figure range value, and it got swept regardless of extreme care.
The user further went on to write that, “Disciplined for two years. Half-searching for a Web3 job, half-hoping to make it quick enough not to need one. I trust that getting swept is not bad luck. It is the last result of a long chain of bad decisions.”
He also shared a screenshot of a top Google search result having an inauthentic Uniswap link. However, this isn’t the first time that Uniswap has faced this issue. In October 2024, scammers identified the lack of domain authority of the website and made a version of the site that seems exactly like the actual one, except that it showed a “connect” button where “get started” should have been and a “bridge” button where it mentions “read the docs”.
Now, the amount of cryptocurrency swept via exploits and scams was $370.3 million in January, the biggest monthly figure in 11 months and around four times the increase from January 2025.
CertiK mentioned that out of the 40 exploits and scams witnessed in January, the major portion of the total value stolen came from one victim that lost about $284 million because of a social engineering scam.
Highlighted Crypto News Today:
Cardano (ADA) Faces a Key Test: Sustainable Breakout or Classic Bull Trap?
A passionate journalist with a strong foundation in content writing and an experience in the crypto industry. With a commitment to self-growth, Sharmistha aims to make a meaningful impact in the media and communications landscape.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 06:4321d ago
Cardano Welcomes New Smart Contract Release Ahead of Intra-Era Hard Fork
Cover image via U.Today Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by our writers are their own and do not represent the views of U.Today. The financial and market information provided on U.Today is intended for informational purposes only. U.Today is not liable for any financial losses incurred while trading cryptocurrencies. Conduct your own research by contacting financial experts before making any investment decisions. We believe that all content is accurate as of the date of publication, but certain offers mentioned may no longer be available.
Plutus, the native smart contract language for Cardano, has welcomed a new release as the network prepares for its intra-era hard fork.
According to Cardano updates, an X handle dedicated to Cardano releases and updates, a new version of Plutus, 1.58.0.0, has been released.
This follows efforts by Cardano's core technology teams to expand Plutus built-in functionality scheduled for activation in protocol version 11 alongside stability improvements across networking and mempool handling.
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Cardano's next protocol upgrade is an intra-era hard fork to protocol version 11, introducing targeted improvements across Plutus performance, ledger consistency and node-level security. All these will occur without changing transaction shape or transitioning to a new ledger era.
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This week, node v.10.6.2 was released in preparation for the intra-era hard fork. Additionally, foundational work was added to support the upcoming intra-era hard fork (protocol version 11) and the future Dijkstra era (protocol version 12), preparing the node for the next phase of protocol evolution.
Cardano hard fork updateCardano's intra-era hard fork to protocol 11 has been officially confirmed as van Rossem hard fork, Intersect stated this in a Feb. 19 update.
Over the past week, the hard fork naming info action ended voting with final tallies putting the DRep support at over 80% of all active DRep stake. This represents overwhelming support, officially confirming the protocol version 11 hard fork as the van Rossem hard fork.
Cardano node version 10.6.2 was released this week (promoted from the 10.6.2 pre-release containing hard fork functionality, which can be tested on SanchoNet). This release contains improvements that strengthen node stability and networking.
The 10.6.2 release is not intended to be the mainnet hard fork candidate release; 10.7 will have further improvements, making it the target for the hard fork.
SanchoNet has been upgraded using the newly-released Cardano node 10.6.2 and is now running protocol version 11. There is also an accompanying DB-Sync pre-release available, which supports hard forking to protocol version 11.
The Cardano node 10.7.0 release is targeted for within the next two weeks. This node release will be used for fork preview, preprod and then the Cardano mainnet.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 06:5321d ago
Robert Kiyosaki predicts when Bitcoin will surpass gold
Financial author Robert Kiyosaki has predicted that Bitcoin (BTC) will likely overtake gold once the cryptocurrency reaches a critical supply milestone.
In an X post on February 21, Kiyosaki said Bitcoin will become superior to gold when the 21 millionth coin is mined.
He argued that this milestone will cement Bitcoin’s scarcity advantage, as its supply is permanently capped by code, unlike gold, which can still see increases in output through discoveries and mining activity.
Although Bitcoin is crashing I bought one more whole Bitcoin
for $67k.
Why?
Two reasons:
# 1: Because the Big Print will begin when the US debt crashes the dollar and “The Marxist Fed” begins printing trillions in fake dollars.
#2: The magical 21 millionth Bitcoin is…
— Robert Kiyosaki (@theRealKiyosaki) February 20, 2026 Notably, gold continues to dominate global asset rankings with a market capitalization of about $35.7 trillion, far ahead of Bitcoin’s roughly $1.36 trillion valuation.
While Bitcoin trades near $68,200, the cryptocurrency remains well below gold’s scale, highlighting the significant gap between traditional safe-haven assets and digital alternatives.
At the same time, Kiyosaki, best known for Rich Dad Poor Dad, disclosed that he bought another whole Bitcoin at $67,000 despite the cryptocurrency’s recent price decline.
His decision was driven by expectations of a major shift in the global financial system and Bitcoin’s approaching supply ceiling.
Increased demand for Bitcoin Notably, the financial educator warned that mounting U.S. debt could weaken the dollar and prompt large-scale money printing by the Federal Reserve, a scenario he believes would accelerate demand for hard assets. In that environment, he sees Bitcoin’s fixed supply as a defining edge over traditional safe havens.
Overall, Kiyosaki remains a big advocate for Bitcoin and alternative assets such as gold and silver, noting that they are ideal for protecting wealth. As reported by Finbold, Kiyosaki has predicted what he calls the biggest stock market crash in history.
In this regard, the author has blamed surging U.S. debt, estimated at $38 trillion officially and far higher when including entitlements, along with continued money printing and currency devaluation, arguing that stocks, bonds, and cash will suffer most.
Rather than fear a downturn, Kiyosaki sees it as a buying opportunity. He has urged investors to shift from paper assets to “real” assets such as gold, silver, Bitcoin, and Ethereum (ETH), citing their long-term advantage.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 06:5321d ago
IoTeX Suffers $8 Million Hack After Private Key Compromise
As the crypto industry adopts AI-focused blockchain netowrk it is exposing itself to more security risks. IoTeX, a blockchain platform built for real-world AI, recently suffered a major security hack, resulting in nearly $8 million in losses.
Here’s how the hack happened & how the IoTeX team is responding to it. Are users’ funds safe?
How The IoTeX Hack Happened?PeckShield, a blockchain security firm, said the hacker carried out the attack after compromising a private key. As a result, the hacker had complete access to the token safe and could take out various cryptocurrency assets.
The hacker compromised several tokens, including USDC, USDT, IOTX, PAYG, WBTC, and BUSD. They withdrew these assets directly from the smart contract vault, showing they had authorized access rather than exploiting a smart contract bug.
The attack turned serious when the hacker allegedly used the same access to create 111 million CIOTEX tokens.
This unauthorized token creation increased the scale of the damage and raised concerns about token supply integrity.
Stolen Funds Converted From ETH to BitcoinThe hacker quickly began the process of transferring the stolen assets after stealing the money.
Later, the hacker traded the stolen tokens for Ethereum. The hacker then used the THORChain cross-chain protocol to bridge Ethereum to Bitcoin.
This step makes tracking and recovery more difficult, as funds move across different blockchain networks and become harder to freeze.
Following the hack, the IoTeX native token IOTX drop 7%, trading below $0.050 with a market cap hitting $47.46 million.
IoTeX Team Responds With Investigation In reaction to the hack, IoTeX was quick to post on X confirming that they were aware of the hack and were working to investigate the issue.
The team confirmed that they were working with major crypto exchanges and blockchain security partners to trace back the stolen funds and stop any further movement.
We are aware of recent reports regarding suspicious activity involving an IoTeX token safe. Our team is fully engaged, working around the clock to assess and contain the situation.
Initial estimates indicate the potential loss is significantly lower than circulating rumors…
— IoTeX (@iotex_io) February 21, 2026 At the same time, exchanges and partners are helping monitor wallets linked to the attacker and may freeze assets if they enter centralized platforms.
Trust with CoinPedia:CoinPedia has been delivering accurate and timely cryptocurrency and blockchain updates since 2017. All content is created by our expert panel of analysts and journalists, following strict Editorial Guidelines based on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). Every article is fact-checked against reputable sources to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Our review policy guarantees unbiased evaluations when recommending exchanges, platforms, or tools. We strive to provide timely updates about everything crypto & blockchain, right from startups to industry majors.
Investment Disclaimer:All opinions and insights shared represent the author's own views on current market conditions. Please do your own research before making investment decisions. Neither the writer nor the publication assumes responsibility for your financial choices.
Sponsored and Advertisements:Sponsored content and affiliate links may appear on our site. Advertisements are marked clearly, and our editorial content remains entirely independent from our ad partners.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 06:5421d ago
Aave's “Civil War” Claims First Casualty as Key Developer Walks Away
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A long-running governance dispute inside the Aave ecosystem has escalated after a core engineering firm announced it will step aside.
Key Takeaways:
Core developer BGD will not renew its contract, deepening a governance dispute between Aave DAO and Aave Labs. The conflict centers on plans to push users from Aave v3 to the upcoming v4 upgrade. The announcement rattled the market, with the Aave token dropping over 6%. Bored Ghosts Developing (BGD), a software company contracted by Aave DAO to build and maintain key components of the lending protocol, said Friday it will not renew its agreement when the current term expires in April.
In a post on Aave’s governance forum, the team blamed Aave Labs, the company founded by protocol creator Stani Kulechov, for pushing a strategic shift tied to the upcoming Aave v4 upgrade.
Aave Developer Refuses to Support V3 Amid Push Toward V4BGD said it could not continue work on Aave v3 while efforts were underway to steer users toward the new version.
“We believe even proposing this on the main revenue-maker & fully functional engine of Aave is borderline outrageous,” the group wrote.
The market reacted quickly. The Aave token fell more than 6% following the announcement.
Kulechov acknowledged the departure, writing on social media that the team had played a critical role in the protocol’s development.
BGD co-founder Ernesto Boado previously served as chief technology officer at Aave Labs.
“Aave V3 would not be what it is today without their contributions,” Kulechov said. Delegate Marc Zeller called the move “devastating,” noting that much of the platform’s revenue depends on BGD’s code.
BGD Labs are rage quitting Aave DAO after 4 years.
They built Aave v3, governance infra, Umbrella, and most core systems.
Why they're leaving:
– Aave Labs pivoted from independent company to central contributor pushing v4
– Aave Labs controls the brand, comms, and has voting… pic.twitter.com/MqRR105eEK
— Ignas | DeFi (@DefiIgnas) February 20, 2026 Aave, with more than $26 billion in user deposits, is the largest decentralized finance lending protocol.
It is governed by tokenholders through a DAO structure, but tensions have been building for months over the role of Aave Labs and control of the brand.
Delegates recently sought to transfer brand assets, including naming rights, social media accounts and the aave.com website, from Labs to the DAO, though the proposal narrowly failed.
Labs later offered to redirect revenue from Aave-branded services to the DAO but tied the plan to recognizing Aave v4 as the project’s future technical foundation.
That clause alarmed BGD, which described Aave v3 as the ecosystem’s “crown jewel” and warned that altering lending parameters could pressure users to migrate prematurely.
Aave Labs Says V3 Will Remain Supported With No Immediate MigrationAave Labs said there is no immediate timeline for migration and that v3 will remain supported. Kulechov added the company can assume maintenance duties if needed, and that the protocol will continue operating normally.
BGD’s contract ends April 1. The firm has offered a short-term transition arrangement to help the DAO find a replacement, marking the first tangible break in what was once viewed as one of DeFi’s most stable governance models.
Meanwhile, the US Securities and Exchange Commission formally concluded its multi-year investigation into the Aave Protocol without recommending any enforcement action.
The action ends nearly four years of regulatory uncertainty surrounding one of decentralized finance’s most widely used lending platforms.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 06:5821d ago
IoTeX Bridge Hacked for $9M via Private Key Exploit, IOTX Price Dips
IoTeX’s cross-chain bridge was hit by a private key exploit on February 21, draining over $8 million in crypto assets and sending the IOTX token tumbling. The attack, which unfolded between 7 and 9 AM UTC, gave the hacker control over IoTeX’s TokenSafe and MinterPool contracts.
On-chain analyst Specter was among the first to flag the breach, reporting that the attacker drained $4.3 million in tokens including USDC, USDT, IOTX, PAYG, WBTC, and BUSD. The stolen assets were quickly swapped to ETH, with approximately 45 ETH bridged to the Bitcoin network.
But that was only part of the damage.
Attacker Minted Millions in CIOTX and CCS TokensBeyond the initial drain, the hacker exploited the compromised contracts to mint $4 million in CIOTX tokens and $4.5 million in CCS, pushing total estimated losses toward $9 million.
Blockchain security firm PeckShield confirmed the exploit on X, writing: “The IoTeX Bridge has been hacked for over $8M worth of crypto due to a compromised private key. The hacker has swapped the stolen funds to $ETH and has started bridging them to BTC via THORChain.”
Three attacker addresses have been publicly identified so far.
IoTeX Says Actual Losses Are LowerIoTeX confirmed the breach by 10:30 AM UTC and pushed back on the circulating estimates. The team stated that “initial estimates indicate the potential loss is significantly lower than circulating rumors suggest.”
The company added that it has “already coordinated with major exchanges and security partners, which are actively assisting in tracing and freezing the hacker’s assets.”
We are aware of recent reports regarding suspicious activity involving an IoTeX token safe. Our team is fully engaged, working around the clock to assess and contain the situation.
Initial estimates indicate the potential loss is significantly lower than circulating rumors…
— IoTeX (@iotex_io) February 21, 2026 IOTX Price Reacts to the ExploitIOTX is currently trading near $0.0049, down 9.2% over the last 24 hours, with daily volume surging over 507%.
This incident follows a rough stretch for cross-chain bridges in 2026. Just three weeks ago, CrossCurve lost $3 million in a separate bridge exploit, and January alone saw nearly $400 million in total crypto thefts industry-wide.
IoTeX says the situation is “under control” and has promised continued updates. Analysts are now watching whether the frozen funds can be recovered before the attacker moves them further.
Trust with CoinPedia:CoinPedia has been delivering accurate and timely cryptocurrency and blockchain updates since 2017. All content is created by our expert panel of analysts and journalists, following strict Editorial Guidelines based on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). Every article is fact-checked against reputable sources to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Our review policy guarantees unbiased evaluations when recommending exchanges, platforms, or tools. We strive to provide timely updates about everything crypto & blockchain, right from startups to industry majors.
Investment Disclaimer:All opinions and insights shared represent the author's own views on current market conditions. Please do your own research before making investment decisions. Neither the writer nor the publication assumes responsibility for your financial choices.
Sponsored and Advertisements:Sponsored content and affiliate links may appear on our site. Advertisements are marked clearly, and our editorial content remains entirely independent from our ad partners.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 07:0021d ago
Solana stabilizes after $10.26M SOL whale buy: Will recovery follow?
A whale invested $10.26 million to accumulate 121,368 Solana [SOL] at an average price of $84.57, signaling renewed large‑scale conviction in Solana’s current market structure.
Notably, the wallet executed multiple USDC-to-SOL swaps within a short time frame, which suggests deliberate scaling rather than impulsive buying.
This structured execution reduces slippage and highlights calculated positioning. While broader market sentiment remains cautious, this capital deployment reflects strategic intent.
Large participants typically accumulate during uncertainty rather than chase rallies, which makes the timing significant.
As a result, this transaction raises an important consideration about whether institutional-sized players now view the current zone as a favorable accumulation range for Solana.
SOL remains confined within a descending channel Solana continues trading inside a long-term descending channel on the daily chart, maintaining a structure defined by consistent lower highs.
Price, at press time, hovered around $84.00, just above the $78.50 macro support level that previously attracted demand. This zone represents a critical inflection point within the broader downtrend.
However, the upper boundary of the channel continues to cap recovery attempts. Immediate resistance stands near $120, while a stronger supply barrier rests around $146.72.
Bulls must reclaim these levels to alter the prevailing structure. Until that occurs, the broader trend remains technically bearish despite localized stabilization near support.
Source: TradingView
The daily MACD indicator showed early bullish convergence as selling pressure began to fade, as the MACD line was at 1.50.
This upward shift reflects diminishing downside momentum after an extended decline. Additionally, green histogram bars have started forming, which often precedes short-term stabilization phases.
However, the indicator still trades below the zero line, which limits full confirmation of a trend reversal.
Sustained expansion above neutral territory would strengthen the bullish case. For now, momentum shows improvement, yet structural confirmation remains incomplete.
Buyer dominance strengthens through Spot Taker CVD The 90-day Spot Taker CVD indicates that aggressive buyers currently outweigh sellers across recent sessions. This metric tracks the cumulative difference between market buy and sell orders, and the latest readings highlight taker buy dominance.
Such activity aligns with the whale’s $10.26 million accumulation and suggests broader participation from active traders.
When market participants aggressively lift offers, they demonstrate conviction rather than hesitation.
However, buyers must sustain this pressure to maintain upward momentum. If taker activity weakens, the price could stall near overhead resistance.
The alignment between whale positioning and buyer-dominant order flow strengthens the recovery thesis, though follow-through remains essential.
Source: CryptoQuant
Decoding the accumulation narrative SOL Spot Inflow/Outflow data reveals persistent exchange withdrawals, with the latest netflow reading at -$5.64 million aso f writing. The negative netflows indicate that tokens leave exchanges rather than enter them, which reduces immediate sell-side supply.
Throughout recent sessions, red netflow bars dominate the chart, reinforcing the accumulation narrative. Although earlier inflow spikes triggered volatility, the current environment shows more consistent withdrawals.
This dynamic suggests that holders may prefer storage over liquidation. If outflows continue alongside buyer-dominant CVD, upward pressure could build gradually.
However, renewed inflows would quickly reintroduce supply and challenge stabilization attempts.
Source: CoinGlass
To sum up, the $10.26 million whale purchase, improving MACD structure, sustained buyer dominance, and continued exchange outflows collectively suggest that accumulation strengthens beneath the surface.
Nevertheless, SOL remains inside a descending channel and below critical resistance levels. Bulls must defend $78.50 and reclaim $120 to initiate structural change.
Until those levels fall, the market reflects stabilization within a broader downtrend rather than a confirmed reversal.
Final Summary Strategic whale accumulation near established macro support zones often precedes meaningful structural market reversals. Sustained buyer conviction must eventually push price beyond descending channel resistance to confirm trend transition.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 07:0021d ago
XRP Tipped As Central Bank Bridge Asset — Bigger Than Bitcoin?
A seasoned investor’s bold claim about XRP has reignited a common question in crypto markets: could a token built for fast settlement ever outgrow the original store-of-value?
According to posts on X by longtime Bitcoin backer Pumpius, if central banks adopt a single on-chain bridge, XRP could eclipse Bitcoin “by magnitude.”
On-Chain Tension And Policy Moves Reports note recent market moves that have worried policy makers and traders. The trading desk at the Federal Reserve requested indicative dollar/yen quotes after a sharp move in the yen, a step that Treasury officials had asked for.
That rare check underlines how currency volatility can push officials to consider new tools, and it has renewed talk about faster settlement rails.
Every Central Bank will use XRP as the bridge asset.
It’s now becoming a reality.
When this happens, XRP will surpass Bitcoin by magnitude.
Ripple’s Timeline And Institutional Talk Based on reports from company briefings and executive posts, Ripple’s leadership sees 2026 as the year when larger, regulated players might put real money onto the XRP Ledger.
Ripple President Monica Long has sketched out scenarios where banks and asset managers run production systems tied to on-chain liquidity pools. Those views have been picked up across crypto news outlets and have added fuel to bullish narratives.
How Would A Bridge Asset Work? Imagine dollar and euro liquidity on a ledger, available for near-instant swaps. In practice, permissioned pools and regulated stablecoins could provide the rails while an on-chain order book or matching engine handles the trades.
Settlement times would be measured in seconds. Audit trails would be automatic. That said, large institutions put a premium on rules and oversight; any real rollout would be gradual and cautious.
XRPUSD currently trading at $1.44. Chart: TradingView XRP Vs. BTC: The Size Of The Gap Numbers matter. Bitcoin’s market cap sits comfortably in the trillions, while XRP’s market value is under $100 billion dollars, depending on which tracker you consult.
That gap is not small. For XRP to “flip” Bitcoin at present values would require trillions more in capital moving into the token — a shift that would likely need broad institutional flows and major regulatory clarity.
Geopolitics Adds Noise Geopolitical strain and trade frictions, amplified by speeches or decisions from leaders, can make markets jittery. US President Donald Trump has been named in debates over policy shifts and geopolitical risk, which in turn affect capital flows and safe-haven bids.
When politics moves markets, technical fixes such as faster settlement can look more attractive on paper; adoption in practice is another matter.
Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 07:0121d ago
Bitcoin Demand Turns Positive as Robert Kiyosaki Buys the Dip Near $67K
TLDR: Robert Kiyosaki bought another full Bitcoin near $67K during recent market weakness. Bitcoin demand shifted above zero after months of persistent negative readings. Long-term holders are beginning to absorb new supply as selling pressure cools. The 21 million supply cap remains central to Bitcoin’s long-term scarcity narrative. Bitcoin demand returned to positive territory as market participants reacted to fresh accumulation signals and renewed buying activity.
The shift comes as author Robert Kiyosaki disclosed another Bitcoin purchase during the recent price dip near $67,000.
At the same time, on-chain data shared by CryptosRus showed apparent demand moving above zero after months of weakness.
Together, these developments frame a market balancing short-term volatility against long-term supply constraints.
Robert Kiyosaki Adds to Holdings During Bitcoin Demand Shift Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, confirmed on X that he bought another full Bitcoin near $67,000. His statement came as Bitcoin traded around $68,000 during a period of price consolidation.
The purchase aligns with his repeated strategy of accumulating during downturns rather than selling into weakness.
Although Bitcoin is crashing I bought one more whole Bitcoin
for $67k.
Why?
Two reasons:
# 1: Because the Big Print will begin when the US debt crashes the dollar and “The Marxist Fed” begins printing trillions in fake dollars.
#2: The magical 21 millionth Bitcoin is…
— Robert Kiyosaki (@theRealKiyosaki) February 20, 2026
In his tweet, Kiyosaki cited concerns about rising United States debt and potential large-scale dollar issuance. He argued that extensive monetary expansion would weaken the dollar and reinforce Bitcoin’s scarcity narrative. His comments referred to what he described as a coming “Big Print” by the Federal Reserve.
Kiyosaki also pointed to Bitcoin’s capped supply of 21 million coins. He stated that once the final Bitcoin is mined, the asset would stand stronger than gold. The supply ceiling remains central to discussions among long-term holders about Bitcoin demand.
Although Bitcoin has faced short-term price swings, Kiyosaki framed the decline as an opportunity. His approach reflects a broader accumulation thesis focused on fixed supply rather than daily volatility. The purchase adds to the ongoing debate over Bitcoin’s role as a hedge against currency expansion.
On-Chain Data Shows Bitcoin Demand Turning Positive Separately, CryptosRus reported that Bitcoin demand has flipped positive after nearly three months of contraction.
Apparent demand moved to approximately +1,200 BTC following a prolonged negative stretch. In December, the metric had dropped to near -154,000 BTC, reflecting persistent distribution.
BITCOIN DEMAND JUST FLIPPED POSITIVE
After nearly three months of persistent weakness, #Bitcoin’s apparent demand has finally turned back above zero — now sitting around +1,200 $BTC.
Back in December, demand bottomed near -154K $BTC, a stretch that helped explain the sluggish… pic.twitter.com/HhHUJJuljK
— CryptosRus (@CryptosR_Us) February 21, 2026
The data measures whether long-term holders are absorbing newly mined supply. When the reading remains deeply negative, excess supply typically weighs on price action. As the metric turns positive, selling pressure appears to ease.
According to the shared analysis, structural accumulation is beginning to re-emerge. Selling activity has cooled compared to previous months, supporting the recovery in Bitcoin demand.
However, market observers noted that a single positive print does not confirm a sustained trend.
Even so, historical patterns show that positive demand readings often precede stronger market phases. If the recovery persists, accumulation may gradually rebuild the foundation for price stability. For now, Bitcoin demand remains the central metric guiding near-term sentiment.
2026-02-21 12:0420d ago
2026-02-21 07:0221d ago
Bitcoin or Gold? The Trade Now Tied to Trump's Economic Trajectory
TL;DR Bitcoin and gold reflect opposing expectations about US economic policy under Donald Trump, with investors using both assets as macro signals. Gold demand has increased alongside rising fiscal deficits and debt concerns, while Bitcoin trades as a bet on deregulation and pro-crypto reforms.
2026-02-21 11:0320d ago
2026-02-21 04:4421d ago
Why I Can't Stop Buying This 6%-Yielding Passive Income Powerhouse
I first invested in Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (EPD +0.47%) several years ago. It's been a winner for me, especially based on total returns. But I didn't stop at only one purchase of the midstream energy stock. Here are three reasons why I can't stop buying this passive income powerhouse.
1. A fantastic distribution Enterprise Products Partners pays a distribution that yields roughly 6%. I don't rely on the distribution for passive income now, but I plan to do so in the future. Instead, I reinvest the cash I receive from owning units of this master limited partnership (MLP) stock. With a 6% yield, it doesn't take much unit-price appreciation to achieve double-digit total returns.
The ultra-high yield isn't the only thing that I like about Enterprise Products Partners' distribution, though. The MLP has increased its distribution for 27 consecutive years. I'm confident the company will keep that streak going for years to come.
Image source: Getty Images.
2. A history of stability The oil and gas industry can be highly volatile. However, Enterprise Products Partners is a pipeline stock with a history of stability.
Over the last 20 years, Enterprise Products Partners has consistently generated durable cash flow. That's an impressive feat, considering the period included the financial crisis of 2007 through 2009, the oil price collapse of 2015 through 2017, and the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 through 2022.
Enterprise's business is largely recession-resistant. Around 90% of its long-term contracts are protected from inflation through escalation provisions. Its balance sheet is strong, as evidenced by Enterprise being the only midstream energy infrastructure company with an A- credit rating (indicating low credit risk).
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36.35
3. Solid growth prospects Enterprise Products Partners generated a record $8.7 billion of adjusted cash flow from operations last year. The company also reported record earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) of $2.7 billion in the fourth quarter of 2025. What's even better, though, is that Enterprise has solid growth prospects over the next several years.
Granted, growth will likely be only modest in 2026, with cash flow and EBITDA increasing by around 3%. However, the midstream company is bringing several assets online this year. Enterprise's co-CEO, Jim Teague, said during the fourth-quarter earnings call, "We expect to see double-digit growth in 2027 once these assets reach full utilization."
The continued build-out of data centers hosting artificial intelligence (AI) systems will be a key growth driver of natural gas demand over the next five years. Enterprise Products Partners, with its 50,000+ miles of pipeline, is poised to be a key beneficiary of this growth.
The real estate investment trust (REIT) sector is massive. According to the National Association of REITs (Nareit), there are currently 191 publicly traded REITs. They have a combined market capitalization approaching $1.5 trillion.
Given the sector's size, it's impossible to know about every REIT. Instead, investors should focus on the best the industry has to offer. Here are three REITs that every investor should know about.
Image source: Getty Images.
Federal Realty Investment Trust Federal Realty Investment Trust (FRT +1.51%) stands out in the REIT sector for doing one thing exceptionally well. It has increased its dividend for an industry-leading 58 straight years. That qualifies it as a Dividend King, a company with at least 50 years of consecutive annual dividend increases. It's the only REIT that has reached Dividend King status.
The company focuses on investing in quality over quantity. It owns 104 high-quality open-air retail and mixed-use properties in the top suburban markets densely populated with high-income households. Despite being in business for more than six decades, Federal Realty has a much smaller portfolio than other retail REITs (e.g., Kimco owns 565 shopping centers and mixed-use assets).
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1.60
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107.47
Federal Realty routinely upgrades its portfolio. It sells mature properties with lower rent growth upside to recycle capital into new properties with greater growth potential, and to fund redevelopment and expansion projects at its other properties. For example, it has sold $328 million of properties over the past few months, which helped fund the $340 million it spent on two new properties. It also announced plans to invest up to $120 million in the redevelopment of another property. This strategy of investing in quality over quantity should enable Federal Realty to continue increasing its dividend.
Realty Income Realty Income (O +0.92%) is the world's sixth-largest REIT with over $61 billion in real estate across nine countries. It's a global leader in net-lease real estate (properties secured by long-term triple-net leases, under which tenants cover all property operating costs). The landlord has a diversified portfolio consisting of over 15,500 retail, industrial, gaming, data center, and other properties leased to many of the world's leading companies, including FedEx, Walmart, and Home Depot.
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Net-leased properties provide very stable rental income. That enables Realty Income to pay a dependable monthly dividend. The REIT steadily increases its dividend. It has raised its payment for more than 30 straight years, including the past 113 quarters in a row.
New investments are the primary driver of the REIT's growing dividend. Realty Income spends billions of dollars each year to acquire stabilized properties and invest in build-to-suit development projects. It sees a massive $14 trillion opportunity to invest in net lease real estate across the U.S. and Europe.
Prologis Prologis (PLD +1.78%) is one of the world's largest REITs. It owns interests in nearly 5,900 buildings in 20 countries. The REIT has over $215 billion in assets under management, including properties it owns outright and those held in investment funds it manages.
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Prologis primarily invests in warehouses. These logistics properties are vital to supporting the global economy. A staggering $3.2 trillion in goods flows through its distribution centers each year, representing 2.9% of global GDP.
The REIT has also begun investing in data centers to support the massive $7 trillion in investment needed for this digital infrastructure. Prologis estimates it could invest between $30 billion and $50 billion in developing data centers over the next decade, creating up to $25 billion in value for its investors.
The company's investments to grow its portfolio should enable it to continue increasing its dividend. Prologis has grown its payout at a 13% compound annual rate over the last five years, more than double the REIT sector's average of 6%.
These top REITs deliver durable and growing dividends Federal Realty Investment Trust, Realty Income, and Prologis are three of the top REITs. They have long histories of growing shareholder value, including steadily increasing their dividends. That makes them ideal REITs to buy and hold long-term.
Matt DiLallo has positions in FedEx, Home Depot, Prologis, and Realty Income. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Home Depot, Prologis, Realty Income, and Walmart. The Motley Fool recommends FedEx. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
2026-02-21 11:0320d ago
2026-02-21 05:0521d ago
Pentagon Names Its Drone Dominance Winners. You Can Own 2 of Them.
You have just two chances out of 25 to invest in America's next great drone company.
By now you've heard the news: The U.S. military is buying drones. A lot of drones. In fact, $1.1 billion worth of drones.
On Feb. 6, the U.S. Department of War (formerly the U.S. Department of Defense, or DOD) announced it has chosen 25 vendors to compete in a Phase 1 "Gauntlet" of the new Drone Dominance Program (DDP). Starting Wednesday, Feb. 18, these two dozen-odd military contractors will demonstrate their wares at Fort Benning, Georgia. After two weeks of testing, the Pentagon will place $150 million worth of orders for military drones, with delivery due in five months.
Image source: Getty Images.
Who gets to compete in the Phase 1 Gauntlet? The list of competitors in Phase 1 reads as follows:
Anno.ai Ascent Aerosystems Auterion Government Solutions Dzyne Technologies Ewing Aerospace Farage Precision Firestorm Labs General Cherry (based in Ukraine) Greensight Griffon Aerospace Halo Aeronautics Kratos SRE, a division of Kratos Defense & Security (KTOS 9.22%) ModalAI Napatree Technology Neros Nokturnal AI Paladin Defense Services Performance Drone Works Responsibly Swarm Defense Technologies Teal Drones, a subsidiary of Red Cat Holdings (RCAT 2.81%), according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence Ukrainian Defense Drones Tech (based in Ukraine) Vector Defense WS Darley & Co. Xtend Reality Who passed, who didn't So what do you notice from this list?
What jumps out at me right away is the dearth of publicly traded defense companies on it. Not a single one of the large defense prime contractors -- the Boeings, General Dynamics, and Lockheed Martins of the world -- made its way onto the list. The only public U.S. companies are Kratos and Red Cat.
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Not even AeroVironment -- arguably the best-known American drone company -- or Redwire, which made a $1 billion bet on drones when it bought Edge Autonomy last year, made it into the Gauntlet.
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As for the lucky 25 who did make the list, it remains to be seen which ones will make the cut and survive Phase 1. Only at the end of the first gauntlet will vendors "be scored on the systems, and up to 12 of the 25 vendors will be invited to produce their drones, at scale, for the department," says DOD. It is these 12 winners who will be awarded contracts to build "a total of 30,000 units, at an average price of $5,000 for each, and deliver by July."
Put down your pencils. That means $150 million will be awarded, divided 12 ways, giving each winner a $12.5 million contract. It means $12.5 million for Kratos if it wins and $12.5 million more for Red Cat.
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What comes next? Thus will end the DDP's first Gauntlet -- but three more remain. Over the course of three succeeding Gauntlets, running through 2027, the Pentagon plans to further whittle down the field from 12 to five ultimate winners. After the final round, the Pentagon plans to award these five companies a combined order for 150,000 drones priced at $2,300 each ($345 million total).
That's $69 million per winner, on top of the initial $12.5 million and whatever awards are won after Gauntlets two and three. Assuming a geometric progression in the size of each phase's awards, by the time DDP concludes, the five final winners will presumably have amassed $12.5 million plus $22 million plus $39 million plus $69 million, for a total of roughly $142.5 million each .
And the U.S. Pentagon will be the proud owner of approximately 340,000 small first-person-view one-way attack drones, each costing about $2,300 to produce, and with five proven suppliers to maintain price competition and keep prices low.
What does it mean for investors? At present, it would appear the best way for investors to profit from DDP is to invest in the two publicly traded stocks involved -- Kratos and Red Cat.
Further down the line, the Pentagon could admit other companies to the competition, however. That might not sound fair to the other companies that had to survive more "Gauntlets," but there's nothing in the DOD's announcement that promises not to add more competitors down the road.
Additionally, companies that win contracts will presumably become increasingly financially viable as their winnings increase. Potentially, one or more of the 23 companies that are not yet publicly traded might become strong enough to hold initial public offerings of their own and go public.
Keep a close eye on this space. The drone industry is growing fast, and you don't want to miss an opportunity if it emerges.
2026-02-21 11:0320d ago
2026-02-21 05:0621d ago
Vita Coco's Stock Is Still Too Expensive After The Pullback
Laffont's new addition may represent an exciting recovery story.
Billionaire Philippe Laffont is known for investing in technology winners. The founder of Coatue Management oversees $39 billion in 13F securities, and tech stocks are consistently at the top of his investment list. His four biggest holdings are in this industry, led by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing -- the chipmaker represents more than 6.5% of his portfolio.
That's why it may be surprising to learn that Laffont, in the fourth quarter of last year, sold his entire position in CoreWeave (CRWV 8.12%), one of today's most talked-about artificial intelligence (AI) stocks. CoreWeave rents out capacity for AI workloads to customers, and this business has fueled triple-digit revenue growth and stock price gains.
During the same quarter, Laffont bought a biotech stock that has struggled in recent years but soared nearly 50% in January. So Laffont locked in gains on CoreWeave and set himself up to potentially win from a new growth bet. Let's check out the details.
Image source: Getty Images.
Why listen to billionaires? First, though, a quick note about why it's important to consider the latest moves of billionaires. These investors have proven their knowledge of the market over time, as it's helped them to build significant wealth. This doesn't mean that every move they make is right for us -- the billionaire we're watching might have a higher risk tolerance, for example, or an investment focus that's different from ours. But, from time to time, we might see a move that fits our investment strategy -- and follow that particular billionaire into an exciting investment story.
How do we learn about these investment moves? This is thanks to 13F filings, forms managers of more than $100 million in securities must file quarterly to reveal their latest transactions. These filings offer us a peek at their recent moves and may spark inspiration as we seek new opportunities in the stock market.
Laffont's latest moves Now, let's consider the moves Laffont made in the latest quarter.
Laffont sold his entire CoreWeave position, one that made up more than 2.2% of his portfolio. He initially bought CoreWeave, which launched an initial public offering in late March of last year, around that time. Laffont opened a position in Moderna (MRNA +0.28%), buying 200,000 shares. This is a very small position, accounting for 0.01% of his portfolio. The billionaire clearly generated significant returns from his CoreWeave purchase since the stock climbed about 80% from its initial public offering through the end of 2025.
As for Moderna, Laffont's bet is a very small one, but it's interesting all the same. Moderna was once a highflier when it released its coronavirus vaccine in the early pandemic days. Once demand for the vaccine started declining, the stock struggled. It's lost more than 70% over the past three years.
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Favoring long-term success But Moderna has cut costs and shifted the focus of its portfolio to favor long-term success. The company, which already sells coronavirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines, aims to add a flu vaccine to that lineup and use sales from this respiratory franchise to fund the development of other programs -- those in oncology and rare diseases. Moderna already has an oncology candidate in phase 3 trials and many other investigational drugs in the pipeline. So, this struggling biotech may offer investors a bright turnaround story a few years down the road, as its clinical programs reach the finish line.
Moderna stock jumped nearly 50% in January, offering Laffont and other shareholders a reason to cheer. Its path may not be linear as it faces a difficult regulatory environment, but the company has what it takes to excel over the long term if even a handful of its candidates reach commercialization.
Laffont didn't explain the reasons for his recent moves, but it's clear that he appreciates Moderna's innovation -- the company is an mRNA specialist -- and likely sees potential for a new era of growth ahead. So Laffont, who already scored a win through his CoreWeave investment, may have been looking for a new growth opportunity.
Is Moderna right for you? Moderna may not recover overnight, but, as mentioned, the biotech has an interesting pipeline -- and candidates in late-stage development. So, if you're looking for a biotech that may bloom over the long term, you might follow Laffont and pick up a few shares of Moderna.
If the artificial intelligence (AI) buildout plays out the way bulls expect, Oracle (ORCL 5.40%) is positioned to win big.
Oracle is all in on AI Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) revenue is growing 66% year over year (YOY), and its backlog has exploded to over $523 billion on the back of massive AI contracts with Meta Platforms, Nvidia, and OpenAI. OCI is now the fastest-growing major cloud platform, beating Amazon Web Services and Microsoft's Azure.
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Oracle needs a lot to go just right The problem is that the company is betting the farm, so to speak. It's taking on tens of billions in debt and considering the sale of profitable business units to fund the data center buildout needed to serve its AI customers and collect on that massive backlog.
If all goes well, the bet will pay handsomely and leave Oracle as a dominant player in the industry. If it doesn't, the company could be in dire straits financially, and the stock would be in the proverbial tank.
Image source: Getty Images.
The verdict If you ask me, there's plenty of reason to believe that it won't play out how the bulls hope. The vast majority of that backlog is supposed to come from OpenAI, a company with financial commitments that absolutely dwarf even its top-line revenue, let alone its net income, which happens to be deeply negative.
That's not a risk-reward profile I like. Oracle is not a stock I would own at this point.
Johnny Rice has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Oracle. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
With its stock already up 40% year to date, one of the hottest growth stocks right now is Micron Technology (MU +2.59%). The memory maker is benefiting from what looks like a supercycle for DRAM (dynamic random access memory) and NAND (flash memory). Best of all, this looks like it is just the start of the cycle.
Micron derives about 80% of its revenue from DRAM, which is used for short-term memory needs, given its speed, and the rest from NAND, which is used for long-term memory storage.
The DRAM market is getting a huge lift from the artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure buildout, as graphics processing units (GPUs) and other AI chips need to be packaged with a special form of DRAM called high bandwidth memory (HBM) for optimal performance. With the AI data center market booming, demand for HBM, not surprisingly, has also skyrocketed.
Image source: Getty Images.
However, there is another factor at play that has tightened the DRAM market even further. HBM requires upwards of three times the wafer capacity of ordinary DRAM, which is greatly impacting the supply chain for the entire DRAM market. This has left the entire market in short supply, causing prices to surge.
At the same time, the NAND market is also in short supply. After a period of oversupply and negative gross margins for flash memory, following a big pull-forward in demand for electronics coming out of the pandemic, the big three memory makers slashed NAND production and turned their focus to DRAM.
However, AI also needs massive, solid-state drives containing flash memory to hold training data, so demand for NAND has surged following production cuts. Given the superior unit economics and long-term contracts tied to HBM, most big memory makers have been in no rush to increase NAND capacity and have just been enjoying the rising prices.
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428.17
A memory market winner Micron, meanwhile, is in the sweet spot, enjoying the current highly favorable conditions of the memory market. It's essentially sold out of its HBM capacity for the year and is working to increase its production to meet the 40% annual growth it sees for HBM over the next few years.
Meanwhile, higher prices aren't just leading to surging revenue; they're also resulting in ballooning gross margins. Last quarter, Micron's revenue soared 57%, while its gross margins expanded from 38.4% to 56%.
With the current supply situation for DRAM and NAND expected to remain tight for the foreseeable future, and HBM contracts locked up for the long term, Micron is in a strong position moving forward.
Meanwhile, the stock is still cheap, trading at a forward P/E of 12 times fiscal year 2026 analyst estimates (ending August 2026) and just above 9 times the fiscal 2027 consensus. With the HBM market looking more like a long-term structural tailwind than simply part of a normal cyclical cycle, Micron looks like an attractive AI stock to own at current levels.
2026-02-21 11:0320d ago
2026-02-21 05:1921d ago
Vishay Precision: AI Opportunity Keeping The Story Alive, But I'm Remaining Skeptical
Nvidia’s (NASDAQ: NVDA) powerful multi-year rally may be entering a decisive bearish phase, according to market analyst TradingShot.
In this outlook, the analyst argued that technical signals now point to the start of a broader correction toward the $100 region. Such a move would imply a drop of about 47% from the stock’s last closing price of $189.
NVDA seven-day stock price chart. Source: Finbold Nvidia stock price outlook In a February 19 TradingView post, the analyst noted that Nvidia has traded within a well-defined ascending channel for about 12 years, spanning multiple bull and bear cycles.
The price has repeatedly rallied to the upper boundary before correcting toward key moving averages, and the latest rejection near the top in late October 2025 mirrors prior cycle peaks.
The analyst added that Nvidia recently tested a lower-highs zone near the channel’s upper boundary before pulling back sharply. The monthly RSI shows a clear bearish divergence, with momentum failing to confirm new highs, a pattern that has previously marked the end of bullish legs.
NVDA stock price analysis. Source: TradingView The RSI has also rolled over from overbought levels. On the weekly chart, Nvidia has broken below its 50-week moving average, a level that has historically signaled deeper bear phases when lost.
Past corrections within this channel have typically extended to the 200-week moving average, where prior bear cycles bottomed. In October 2022, the stock briefly dipped below the 0.382 Fibonacci retracement before starting a new uptrend.
The 200-week moving average now sits near $100, forming the current downside target. A move to that level would still keep the price above the 0.382 retracement, aligning with historical corrections rather than extreme weakness. Meanwhile, the monthly RSI continues to trend lower. TradingShot noted that a drop into the 43–41 range could signal a developing long-term buying opportunity.
Nvidia fundamentals This outlook comes as the American semiconductor giant gears up for its next earnings report. Nvidia’s fiscal Q4 2026 results, due February 25, are projected to show revenue of $65.6–$65.9 billion, up 67% year-over-year, driven by surging AI demand.
Analysts forecast adjusted EPS of $1.52, with gross margins around 75%. The consensus price target stands at $255.82, implying 36% upside from $188.
Notably, analysts remain bullish on hyperscaler capex and Blackwell ramps, but high expectations could spark volatility if results fall short.
2026-02-21 11:0320d ago
2026-02-21 05:3021d ago
Global Markets No More: Trade Barriers Mess With Commodities From Metals to Oil
Ames National has surged 21% YTD, benefiting from widening interest rate spreads and robust net income growth. ATLO's Q4'25 net income rose 85% to $6.5 million, with ROA doubling and net interest margins improving to 3%. Deposit costs declined despite growth in deposits, while loan yields—especially real estate—rose, driving spread expansion.
U.S.-Iran Nuclear Standoff Remains the Primary Driver of the Rally In my opinion, the primary driver of the rally was the U.S.-Iran nuclear standoff. It had been underpinning prices most of the week. With the U.S. sending another warship fleet and giving Iran a 10-to-15-day advanced warning of attack, the situation escalated, reinforcing gold as a safe-haven asset.
Supreme Court Tariff Ruling Knocks the Dollar, Sending Gold Higher The second most influential factor was the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down President Trump’s broad tariff powers. The news drove down the U.S. Dollar, which had been edging higher at the time, making gold more attractive to foreign buyers. Later in the trading session, prices rose further as traders reacted to Trump’s announcement of fresh global tariffs.
The Supreme Court first declared illegal Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose global tariffs. He then said he would impose a 10% global tariff for 150 days to replace some of his emergency duties that the Court struck down. Both moves were read as bullish by traders.
Weak GDP and Sticky PCE Trim June Rate Cut Odds but Fail to Derail the Rally Gold traders showed little reaction to mixed U.S. economic news that dampened the chances of a Fed rate cut in June. U.S. GDP was weaker than expected and PCE inflation came in as expected but still above the 2% mandate. According to the CME FedWatch Tool, this drove the chances of a June rate cut lower from 50.2% on Thursday to 45.6% at Friday’s close.
The economic data drove the dollar higher, so gold’s gains may have been limited at the time, but the dollar turned lower and gold gained further once the tariff news came out at around 14:30 GMT.
Technical Outlook: $5108 High Puts Gold Just Under Key Resistance at $5119 and $5143
2026-02-21 11:0320d ago
2026-02-21 05:3821d ago
National Energy Services Reunited Targets MENA And Asia's Rapid Industrialization And Urbanization
SummaryOneSpan is transitioning from hardware to software-centric authentication, driving improved margins and a more resilient earnings profile.OSPN trades at a compelling forward P/E of 7.99 and offers a 4.26% dividend yield, both well below sector medians, supporting a value-oriented buy rating.Strong free cash flow enables consistent dividends, share buybacks, and strategic acquisitions to bolster subscription revenue growth.Recent acquisitions, including Nok Nok and Build38, position OSPN for renewed growth in digital authentication and mobile security markets. economica20/iStock via Getty Images
Market sentiment seems to be shifting dramatically in technology, particularly as it relates to Internet software and services companies. While the megacap leviathans are forever testing record highs, those following the 52-week lows are finding familiar names appearing. The
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of OSPN either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.