What Shipped
Welcome to your February 18, 2026, blockchain update! Let’s start with some important developments from a handful of organizations leading the way in blockchain innovation: Ripple, Stellar, Hedera, Flare Network, and XDC Network. These projects continue to push forward with new technology, partnerships, and improvements that aim to make blockchain more accessible and useful for everyone.
Here are some highlights from the past few weeks:
- Stellar released a detailed blog post discussing the hidden risks of Proof-of-Stake (PoS). PoS is a popular method blockchains use to validate transactions more efficiently than traditional Proof-of-Work, but Stellar explores some challenges and considerations that investors and developers should know.
- Stellar also published their End of Year 2025 Report, highlighting their progress in scaling their network and expanding use cases. They are focused on making cross-border payments faster and cheaper.
- Hedera Hashgraph announced that global logistics giant FedEx has joined their governing council. This is a big deal because it shows how major companies are embracing blockchain technology to improve supply chains worldwide. You can read more about it here.
- Hedera also shared updates on technical improvements, such as migrating from an older query method called AccountBalanceQuery to newer, more efficient tools. This helps developers build faster and more reliable apps on Hedera’s platform.
- Meanwhile, Flare Network and XDC Network, though smaller in market size compared to Bitcoin and Ethereum, continue to develop their ecosystems. Flare focuses on integrating smart contracts with other blockchains, while XDC targets enterprise solutions and trade finance.
Why It Matters
Understanding these updates helps you see how blockchain technology is evolving beyond just cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Projects like Stellar and Hedera are working hard to solve real-world problems such as cross-border money transfers and supply chain transparency.
For example, when FedEx joins the Hedera Council, it means they are likely exploring ways to track shipments more securely and efficiently using blockchain. This can reduce fraud, speed up customs processes, and lower costs for consumers. That’s a practical use case that benefits everyday people, not just crypto enthusiasts.
Similarly, Stellar’s focus on Proof-of-Stake risks reminds us that while blockchain technologies offer many advantages, they also have challenges to address. Being aware of these helps investors and users make smarter decisions about where to put their money and trust.
Builders’ Corner
If you’re curious about building on these networks or just want to understand the tech better, here are some simple explanations:
- Proof-of-Stake (PoS): A consensus method where validators are chosen based on how many coins they hold and “stake” as collateral. It’s more energy-efficient than Proof-of-Work but can have risks like centralization.
- Smart Contracts: Self-executing contracts with the terms directly written into code. They allow automatic payments or actions when certain conditions are met.
- Governance Councils: Groups of organizations that help manage and guide a blockchain network’s development, ensuring it runs smoothly and fairly.
For developers, Hedera’s move to newer query methods means cleaner code and faster apps. Stellar’s ongoing research helps create safer, more reliable financial tools. If you’re interested in building apps for payments, supply chains, or digital assets, these platforms are worth exploring.
Quick Prices
Here’s a snapshot of some key crypto prices as of February 18, 2026, 9:01 PM ET:
- Bitcoin (BTC): $66,833 (down 0.54% in 24 hours)
- Ethereum (ETH): $1,966.48 (down 0.74%)
- Ripple (XRP): $1.43 (down 2.84%)
- Stellar (XLM): $0.1617 (down 1.97%)
- Hedera Hashgraph (HBAR): $0.0995 (down 1.90%)
- Flare Network (FLR): $0.00937 (down 3.27%)
- XDC Network (XDCE): $0.0362 (down 1.82%)
Prices have seen a slight dip recently, which is fairly normal in the crypto market. Remember, short-term drops can be opportunities to learn, research, and plan your next moves.
What to Watch
- Regulation and Tokenization: Real estate billionaire Barry Sternlicht recently mentioned that U.S. regulations are slowing down the tokenization of assets. Tokenization means turning physical assets like property into digital tokens that can be traded easily. Keep an eye on how legal frameworks evolve because this could open huge new investment opportunities.
- Cross-Border Payments: Blockchain’s ability to make international payments faster and cheaper continues to improve. Projects like Stellar are leading this charge, so watch for new partnerships or product launches.
- Enterprise Adoption: With companies like FedEx joining Hedera’s council, expect more businesses to adopt blockchain solutions for logistics, finance, and supply chains.
- Wallet Security Innovations: South Korea’s Hanwha is investing $13 million into “seedless” crypto wallets, which aim to simplify wallet recovery and improve security. This could make crypto safer and easier to use for everyone.
Staying informed about these trends will help you understand where blockchain technology is headed and how you can participate safely and wisely.
TL;DR: Major blockchain projects like Stellar and Hedera are making strides in improving cross-border payments and supply chains, with big companies like FedEx joining the effort. While prices have dipped slightly, the technology is evolving with new tools and partnerships. Keep an eye on regulation changes, enterprise adoption, and wallet security innovations as the crypto space grows more mainstream and user-friendly.
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