What shipped
February 2026 has been an exciting month for blockchain enthusiasts, especially those interested in projects like Ripple, Stellar, Hedera, Flare Network, and XDC Network. Several important updates and developments have emerged recently, reflecting ongoing innovation and real-world adoption in these ecosystems.
Stellar, a blockchain focused on fast and affordable cross-border payments, released their End of Year 2025 Report – Execution at Scale. This report highlights Stellar’s progress in scaling their network and expanding partnerships, showing a strong commitment to making financial services more accessible globally.
In addition, Stellar introduced new features like IRL × Stellar: Bringing Culture Onchain, Invisibly. This project explores ways to encode cultural elements and creativity directly onto the blockchain, but in a way that doesn’t clutter the network. This is a fresh approach to blending technology with human culture.
Developers working with Stellar also benefit from tools such as the RISC Zero Execution Verifier. This innovation helps verify smart contract computations efficiently, increasing trust and security in decentralized applications (dApps).
Hedera Hashgraph, known for its fast and energy-efficient public ledger, announced some notable developments. They shared guidance on migrating from the AccountBalanceQuery, which is important for developers maintaining apps on the Hedera network.
Another big highlight is that FedEx, a global logistics giant, has officially joined the Hedera Council. This means FedEx will help govern and support Hedera’s platform, especially in advancing digital supply chains worldwide. You can read more about this collaboration here.
Moreover, Hedera is working on new payment standards like the x402 payment standard, aiming to improve how digital payments are processed securely and efficiently.
Why it matters
These updates show that blockchain technology is moving beyond just being a buzzword or an investment vehicle. Projects like Stellar and Hedera are focusing on real-world use cases that can impact industries such as finance, culture, and logistics.
- Stellar’s scaling efforts mean faster and cheaper transactions, which could help more people worldwide access banking services through their phones.
- Onchain culture initiatives like IRL × Stellar demonstrate how blockchain can support creative communities and preserve digital heritage in new ways.
- FedEx joining Hedera’s Council is a big endorsement from a major corporation, signaling that blockchain is becoming a trusted tool for global supply chain management.
- Payment standards like x402 simplify and secure the transfer of digital money, which is essential as more businesses and consumers adopt cryptocurrencies.
Overall, these developments highlight the increasing maturity of blockchain networks and their growing integration into everyday business and cultural activities.
Builders’ corner
If you’re a developer or someone interested in building on these platforms, now is a great time to explore the tools and opportunities available:
- Stellar’s RISC Zero Verifier: This tool helps verify that smart contracts run correctly without having to trust a third party. It’s ideal for building secure dApps that require strong proof of execution.
- Migrating Hedera apps: If you have applications using Hedera’s AccountBalanceQuery, check out the migration guide to ensure your services continue running smoothly with upcoming changes.
- Join the Hedera Council ecosystem: With big players like FedEx joining, projects focused on supply chain and logistics can find new partners and opportunities.
- Explore Stellar’s cultural projects: If you’re interested in digital art or cultural preservation, Stellar’s IRL initiative offers a novel way to bring culture onchain.
For newcomers, these updates show that the blockchain space is not just about cryptocurrencies but also about building useful applications that improve how we live and work.
Quick prices
As of February 18, 2026, here’s a snapshot of key cryptocurrency prices and their recent 24-hour changes:
- Bitcoin (BTC): $67,156 (slight decrease of about 0.06%)
- Ethereum (ETH): $1,974 (up 0.5%)
- Ripple (XRP): $1.46 (down 0.57%)
- Stellar (XLM): $0.16 (down 0.7%)
- Hedera (HBAR): $0.10 (up 0.1%)
- Flare Network (FLR): $0.0096 (down 0.23%)
- XDC Network (XDC): $0.0365 (down 0.87%)
While some tokens have seen minor dips, Ethereum and Hedera are showing modest gains, reflecting ongoing interest and development in their networks.
What to watch
Looking ahead, here are some key themes and events to keep an eye on:
- Further adoption of blockchain in supply chains: With FedEx on board, Hedera’s role in logistics could expand, potentially driving more enterprise use cases.
- Scaling solutions and smart contract innovations: Stellar’s work on efficient verification and scaling could set new standards for user-friendly dApps.
- Regulatory developments: As digital assets evolve, countries like the UK are shaping new rules, which will influence how projects operate and grow.
- Cross-chain collaborations: Keep an eye on projects like Zora moving to Solana and Coinbase’s Base changing tech stacks, as these moves may affect ecosystem dynamics.
- Ethereum staking and supply data debates: Discussions around Ethereum’s staking milestones highlight the importance of transparency and data accuracy in blockchain networks.
For curious investors and newcomers, these trends show the blockchain space is rapidly evolving with exciting opportunities on the horizon.
TL;DR: Stellar and Hedera are making big strides with new reports, developer tools, and partnerships like FedEx joining Hedera’s Council. These moves highlight blockchain’s growing role in finance, culture, and supply chains. Prices are mostly stable, with Ethereum and Hedera showing slight gains. Keep an eye on scaling innovations, regulatory changes, and enterprise adoption as the space continues to mature.
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