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Yesterday — 19 February 2026Main stream

UAE Royal Group Builds $453M Bitcoin Reserve Through Mining

19 February 2026 at 16:09
UAE Government Mines $455M in Bitcoin via Citadel Mining

The post UAE Royal Group Builds $453M Bitcoin Reserve Through Mining appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

The United Arab Emirates has quietly built a massive Bitcoin reserve worth over $453 million through its Royal family mining operation. The holdings, linked to Citadel Mining, highlight the country’s growing long-term commitment to Bitcoin as a strategic digital asset.

UAE Quietly Built $453M Bitcoin Stack

Blockchain analytics firm Arkham Intelligence tracked 37 crypto wallets connected to Citadel Mining, an operation tied to Abu Dhabi’s Royal Group through its investment arm.

These wallets currently hold around 6,782 BTC, valued at approximately $453.6 million. The data shows that most of this BTC was generated through bitcoin mining rather than buying from exchanges. 

Arkham tracked UAE Bitcoin Mining

Arkham estimates that the UAE is already sitting on profits of around $344 million from its Bitcoin mining operations, excluding energy and operational costs.

More importantly, the UAE has not made any major Bitcoin outflows in the past four months, signaling a clear long-term holding strategy.

UAE Expands Bitcoin Mining With Large Industrial Infrastructure

The UAE’s Bitcoin mining expansion began in 2022, when Citadel Mining launched large-scale operations in Abu Dhabi. 

The country strengthened its position further in 2023 through a major partnership between Marathon Digital and Zero Two, an Abu Dhabi-based company.

This partnership focused on developing large immersion-cooled mining facilities with a total capacity of 250 megawatts. These advanced facilities allow efficient Bitcoin mining while reducing operational costs.

By producing Bitcoin domestically, the UAE avoids relying on external markets and gains direct exposure to Bitcoin’s long-term value growth. This move highlights a bigger global shift. Governments are no longer ignoring Bitcoin. 

UAE Emerges as One of the Largest State Bitcoin Holders

Based on current data, the UAE now ranks 6th among the top sovereign-linked Bitcoin holders globally. Its holdings are larger than El Salvador’s national Bitcoin reserves and place it among countries actively building strategic crypto positions.

Unlike traders who sell quickly, the UAE is showing a clear long-term strategy. By mining and holding Bitcoin, the country is treating it more like digital gold rather than a short-term trade.

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FAQs

Is the UAE selling its Bitcoin reserves?

No, the UAE hasn’t made major Bitcoin outflows in months, signaling a long-term holding strategy.

How did the UAE acquire its Bitcoin?

Most of the UAE’s Bitcoin comes from domestic mining rather than buying on exchanges, boosting long-term strategic reserves.

Why is the UAE investing in Bitcoin mining?

Large-scale mining lets the UAE produce Bitcoin efficiently, cut costs, and gain direct exposure to its long-term value.

Altcoin Flash First Bullish Candle in 5.8 Years, February Key for Altcoin Season

19 February 2026 at 14:30
When will altcoin season start

The post Altcoin Flash First Bullish Candle in 5.8 Years, February Key for Altcoin Season appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

After years of weak performance, altcoins may finally be showing their first real sign of recovery. A rare bullish candle has now appeared on the ALT/BTC chart for the first time in 5.8 years. This signal is not just a small move, but something that has historically marked the beginning of a major altcoin season rally.

ALT/BTC Chart Flashes Major Bullish Breakout

Popular crypto trader Ash Crypto said altcoins have printed their first strong bullish candle against Bitcoin in 5.8 years. This is a big change, as altcoins have been falling since their 2021 peak.

However, the ATL/BTC chart shows a clear resistance line that pushed altcoins lower for years. Now, altcoins are testing this level again while holding support, showing the downtrend may be ending.

ALT/BTC chart breakout suggests altcoin season

At the same time, the MACD indicator has stayed green for two months and has given a bullish crossover. This is a key sign that selling pressure is fading and buyers are slowly returning to the altcoin market.

Historically, such signals usually appear during the early stage of an altcoin cycle. 

Altcoin Season Index Shows Market Is Still Early

Another key signal is the Altcoin Season Index, which is now around 51. This shows the market is starting to recover, but a full altcoin rally has not begun yet.

In past bear markets like 2018 and 2022, the index fell below 25 and even reached 5, showing strong fear and heavy selling. During bull runs, it rose to 95 in 2017 and 85 in 2021. 

The move back to 51 now suggests altcoins may be slowly gaining strength again.

February Monthly Close Could Confirm Altcoin Rally

One of the most important factors now is how February closes. If February finishes with a green monthly candle, it could confirm that altcoins are entering a new growth phase.

The last time this type of bullish signal appeared, the altcoin market saw explosive growth. Altcoin market cap expanded by nearly 1,000% to 1,500% during the following cycle.

Altcoin price chart

Many top altcoins delivered gains of 10x to 100x as capital rotated away from Bitcoin into smaller assets.

If this trend continues, it could mark the beginning of a new altcoin season.

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FAQs

Is altcoin season starting now?

Altcoins are showing early recovery signs, but a confirmed altcoin season needs sustained outperformance versus Bitcoin and higher market momentum.

Why do altcoins outperform Bitcoin during altcoin season?

As Bitcoin stabilizes, investors rotate profits into smaller coins seeking higher returns, increasing volatility and upside potential.

What role does Bitcoin dominance play in altcoin season?

Falling Bitcoin dominance often signals capital shifting into altcoins, a common early indicator of a broader altcoin rally.

How long does altcoin season usually last?

Altcoin seasons typically last a few weeks to several months, depending on liquidity, macro trends, and Bitcoin’s price stability.

Here’s Why Bitcoin Price is Falling Continues?

19 February 2026 at 12:32
Bitcoin price today

The post Here’s Why Bitcoin Price is Falling Continues? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Over the past month, the Bitcoin price has dropped 26%, falling from its January high of $97,682 to around $67,190. It is struggling to recover, which has made many investors worried. Even with strong institutional buying and strong global liquidity, Bitcoin value is still lagging behind assets like gold and silver.

Lost Bitcoin Supply and Quantum Computing Fear

One major concern affecting Bitcoin value is the large amount of lost or inactive coins. Crypto experts estimate that around 3.5 to 4 million BTC, nearly 18% of the total supply, have not moved since Bitcoin’s early days and are believed to be permanently lost.

Perhaps, with fast progress in quantum computing, analysts believe these old wallets could become easier to access in the future. Even though this risk is not confirmed, markets react to such possibilities. 

Bitcoin price Supply

If investors expect some of these coins to return, it increases future supply fears, which can put pressure on Bitcoin’s price.

Institutional Buying Matches Lost Bitcoin Supply

Interestingly, institutional investors have been buying Bitcoin aggressively over the past few years. Since the launch of the spot Bitcoin ETF, institutions & corporations have accumulated around 2.5 to 3 million BTC. This amount is almost equal to the number of coins believed to be lost.

This means that while new demand exists, the fear of future supply returning is balancing out bullish momentum. As a result, Bitcoin is not seeing the strong price growth many expected.

Massive Bitcoin Redistribution Adds Selling Pressure

On-chain data shows that around 13 to 14 million BTC have already moved in this market cycle, marking the largest redistribution in Bitcoin’s history.

Despite this massive movement, Bitcoin did not see a full crash. This shows the market has already absorbed a large amount of supply.

Because of this, fears about another 3 to 4 million BTC returning in the future may have a smaller impact than many expect.

Bitcoin Price Liquidations Trigger Market Panic

Bitcoin price also reacted after the Fed decided to keep interest rates unchanged. This added pressure on the market. Coinglass data shows that around $223 million was liquidated in the last. 

Meanwhile, Bitcoin alone saw a liquidation of $78 million after falling below its important 200-week EMA level near $68,000. 

As of now, Bitcoin is trading near $66,900, showing continued weakness in market momentum.

Fed Minutes News: Powell, Waller Signal Delay in Rate Cuts

19 February 2026 at 10:49
FOMC Minutes to Release Today

The post Fed Minutes News: Powell, Waller Signal Delay in Rate Cuts appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

The latest Fed minutes news released on February 18, 2026, show that Federal Reserve officials remain cautious about cutting interest rates, signaling that a rate cut in March is unlikely.

While some members support future rate cuts if inflation falls further, others prefer to keep rates unchanged for longer and closely watch economic conditions.

Fed Minutes News: No Rate Cut In March

According to the Fed meeting minutes, officials decided to keep interest rates unchanged in the 3.50% to 3.75% range after several cuts in late 2025. All 19 governors and regional presidents attended the meeting, but only 12 had voting rights.

Out of them, the FOMC voted 10–2 in favor of holding rates steady, showing that most members prefer to pause and watch economic conditions instead of rushing into more rate cuts. 

FED MINUTES: ALMOST ALL PARTICIPANTS SUPPORTED JANUARY RATE PAUSE

— *Walter Bloomberg (@DeItaone) February 18, 2026

Based on current Fed guidance and market expectations, analysts now believe there will likely be no rate cut in March. 

The CME FedWatch Tool also shows a 94% probability that rates will remain unchanged.

Fed Officials Remain Divided on Rate Cut Timeline

Even though the Fed decided to keep interest rates unchanged, officials are still divided about the next move. Some policymakers, including Stephen Miran and Christopher Waller, disagreed in favor of a 25-basis-point rate cut. 

Christopher Waller said the central bank should avoid cutting rates too early, as inflation could rise again if financial conditions loosen too quickly

At the same time, the newly appointed next Fed Chair, Kevin Warsh, has shown support for lower rates, while other officials remain cautious and have not ruled out possible rate hikes if inflation stays high. 

Based on current Fed guidance, most analysts believe rate cuts are more likely in mid-2026 rather than March. As the current Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s term is going to end this year in May.

Crypto Market Reaction: Bitcoin and Altcoins Face Pressure

The Fed minutes news had an immediate impact on crypto markets. However, Bitcoin price dropped 1% to now trading around $67,150. Similarly, other altcoins, including XRP, SOL, and Doge, have seen a slight price drop to around 5% today.  

Eventually, higher interest rates reduce liquidity, which often slows demand for risk assets like Bitcoin and altcoins.

When the Fed delays rate cuts, investors tend to move capital into safer assets like bonds, reducing demand for Bitcoin and altcoins.

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.

FAQs

Will the Fed cut interest rates in March 2026?

No. The latest Fed minutes signal a March rate cut is unlikely, with most officials preferring to hold rates steady for now.

What is the current Federal Reserve interest rate?

The Fed kept rates unchanged in the 3.50%–3.75% range, following several cuts made in late 2025.

How did the crypto market react to the Fed minutes?

Bitcoin fell about 1%, and major altcoins dropped up to 5%, as higher rates typically reduce liquidity for risk assets.

Before yesterdayMain stream

Fact Check: Are BRICS Nations Partnering With Ripple to Use XRP Ledger for a Global Digital Currency?

18 February 2026 at 16:51
Fact Check: Are BRICS Nations Partnering With Ripple to Use XRP Ledger for a Global Digital Currency?

The post Fact Check: Are BRICS Nations Partnering With Ripple to Use XRP Ledger for a Global Digital Currency? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

BRICS nations, including Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and many other nations, have publicly discussed reducing reliance on the US dollar in cross-border trade. 

But new news is circulating on X that BRICS nations are in talks with Ripple, a leading cross-border payment solution, to create a global digital currency and may use the XRP Ledger for payments between member countries.

So Coinpedia stepped in to fact-check whether the claim is real or just another rumor.

Who Made This Claim?

An X user known as “Ledger Man” claimed that BRICS countries were “talking with Ripple” to use the XRP Ledger (XRPL) for central bank digital currency infrastructure.

But is this claim actually true? Let’s break it down.

Coinpedia’s Key Findings: What’s Actually True?

No Official Confirmation From BRICS or Ripple

As of now, there is no official statement from BRICS governments or Ripple confirming any partnership involving the XRP Ledger.

However, major international partnerships involving central banks are always publicly disclosed, and no such announcement exists.

BRICS Is Developing Its Own Payment Infrastructure

BRICS nations are actively working on alternative payment systems such as BRICS Pay and cross-border settlement platforms to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar.

Instead of adopting XRP, BRICS is working on a gold-backed digital settlement unit to facilitate trade among member countries.

Therefore, their is no official document stating that XRPL has been selected as the underlying infrastructure.

Ripple Has Central Bank Partnerships, But Not With BRICS

Ripple has partnered with several individual financial institutions and central banks globally to explore blockchain-based payments.

However, there is no evidence that BRICS as an organization has entered into any agreement with Ripple.

Summary Table: Coinpedia’s Evidence Against the Theory

Claim Made by TheoryCoinpedia’s Counter-Evidence
BRICS working with Ripple officiallyNo official BRICS or Ripple confirmation
XRP Ledger selected for BRICS paymentsNo verified adoption announced
BRICS building XRP-based digital currencyBRICS developing independent CBDC systems

Conclusion

ClaimAre BRICS countries exploring Ripple XRP Ledger for digital payments?
Verdict❌ False
Fact-Check by CoinpediaAs per Coinpedia research and review of official sources, there is no verifiable evidence that BRICS countries are working with Ripple or using the XRP Ledger for digital payments.
The rumor appears to have started from speculation around BRICS de-dollarization efforts and Ripple’s blockchain infrastructure expansion.Until then, this claim remains unverified and speculative.
Never Miss a Beat in the Crypto World!

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Why World Liberty Financial Price Is Up Today After Mar-a-Lago Event

18 February 2026 at 12:52
WLFI Turns Bullish as Price Reclaims Key Zone

The post Why World Liberty Financial Price Is Up Today After Mar-a-Lago Event appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

The Donald Trump family-backed project, World Liberty Financial, has seen its WLFI token price surge nearly 20% today. As of now, the $WLFI price is hovering around $0.1175, giving it a market cap of about $3.13 billion.

While most major coins trade in the red, this sharp rise raises questions among investors: why is the World Liberty Financial WLFI token price up today?

Why WLFI token price up today?

WLFI Event at Mar-a-Lago

One of the biggest reasons behind the World Liberty Financial WLFI price rally is a high-profile event taking place at Mar-a-Lago, Donald Trump’s Florida resort, on 18th February. 

As per the WLFI announcement, the event will host CEOs from major financial and crypto firms, including Coinbase, BitGo, Nasdaq, Franklin Templeton, and Goldman Sachs. Other well-known figures include rapper Nicki Minaj, investor Kevin O’Leary, and the president of FIFA and the NYSE. 

Around 300 global leaders will attend the event. Several experts expect World Liberty Financial (WLFI) to make major announcements today. 

WLFI Whale Buying Activity Boosts Investor Confidence

Another key factor supporting the WLFI price surge is aggressive whale accumulation. On-chain data shows that a newly created wallet spent approximately $2.75 million USDC to purchase over 21 million WLFI tokens in a single transaction.

WLFI token buying

However, wallets linked to the World Liberty Financial team have also increased their holdings. One team-linked wallet reportedly received $10 million from Coinbase, signaling strong internal confidence in the project’s future.

WLFI Trading Volume Jumped 120%,

This increase in whale buying has pushed WLFI trading volume up nearly 120% in the past 24 hours, reaching around $242 million. Rising volume often signals that investors are showing stronger interest in the asset.

At the same time, open interest rose about 40% to roughly $250 million, while funding rates stayed negative. This suggests many traders were betting against the token.

WLFI open interest

Liquidation Add More Pressue On Short seller

As the WLFI price started rising, short sellers closed their positions, creating additional buying pressure.

Over the past 24 hours, WLFI recorded approximately $1.18 million in total liquidations, with $770,000 coming from short positions alone.

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.

FAQs

Why is the WLFI token price up today?

WLFI rose nearly 20% due to a high-profile Mar-a-Lago event, strong whale buying, rising trading volume, and short liquidations boosting demand.

What is the Mar-a-Lago event for World Liberty Financial?

It’s a high-profile summit at Donald Trump’s resort hosting CEOs from Coinbase and Goldman Sachs, where experts expect World Liberty Financial to make major announcements.

What does the spike in WLFI trading volume indicate?

The sharp increase in volume, up 120% to $242 million, signals strong investor interest and confirms that the price move is backed by real market activity.

Is WLFI token a good investment?

WLFI’s rally reflects positive sentiment, but crypto investing carries risk—research fundamentals, news, and your own goals before deciding.

Bitwise Files PredictionShares ETFs to Track U.S. Election Results

18 February 2026 at 09:31
Bitwise Expands Into Staking With Chorus One Acquisition

The post Bitwise Files PredictionShares ETFs to Track U.S. Election Results appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Global crypto asset manager Bitwise, which oversees more than $15 billion in assets, has filed to launch PredictionShares ETFs designed to track 2028 U.S. election results.

The filing shows plans to launch six separate ETFs tied to the outcomes of major U.S. elections.

Bitwise Files PredictionShares ETFs

On 17 Feb, Bitwise submitted a prospectus to launch six prediction-market ETFs under its PredictionShares brand. These ETFs will be listed on NYSE Arca and structured as part of the Bitwise Funds Trust.

Meanwhile, the lineup he proposed includes funds tied to the 2028 U.S. presidential election and the 2026 congressional elections. 

  • Two funds will track whether a Democratic or Republican candidate wins the presidency in November 2028. 
  • Another two funds will focus on which party gains control of the U.S. Senate in November 2026, while the remaining two funds will track control of the House of Representatives.

The filing confirms that each PredictionShares ETF will function as an exchange-traded fund designed to provide returns based on specific U.S. political election outcomes.

Bitwise is offering separate ETFs

Prediction Market ETF Structure Uses Binary Event Contracts

According to the prospectus, each Bitwise PredictionShares ETF will invest at least 80% of its net assets in binary event contracts traded on Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) regulated exchanges. These contracts operate with a fixed payout structure. 

If the predicted political outcome occurs, the contract settles at $1. If the outcome does not occur, the value settles at $0.

Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan said prediction markets are growing rapidly and becoming more important in global financial markets.

The company sees prediction market ETF exposure as a new opportunity for investors seeking alternative strategies.

Other ETF Issuers Joining Bitwise

Following Bitwise’s footsteps, GraniteShares also filed on February 17 for six similar ETFs based on U.S. election outcomes. The structure of its proposed funds is almost the same, focusing on political event contracts.

These filings came shortly after Roundhill applied for election-based prediction-market ETFs, signaling rising interest in this space.

Roundhill just filed for a bunch of ETFs that track prediction markets for political elections. Using event contracts. Potentially groundbreaking. If this goes through wow opens up huge door to all kinds of stuff. Ht ⁦@Todd_Sohnpic.twitter.com/qmltjlguqn

— Eric Balchunas (@EricBalchunas) February 13, 2026

However, the SEC has not approved any of these products yet. If approved, they could create a new category of regulated investment ETFs linked to U.S. election results.

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