What Shipped
In the world of blockchain and digital assets, several exciting updates and improvements have recently taken shape across multiple projects. Notably, Stellar has made its Freighter wallet significantly faster, improving load times by an impressive 63%. Freighter is a popular wallet extension that allows users to manage Stellar assets and interact with decentralized apps (dApps) easily. This speed boost means users can now access their funds and perform transactions more quickly and smoothly.
Hedera Hashgraph, a public distributed ledger technology known for its speed and security, has been expanding its ecosystem. A new integration with Axelar has been announced, connecting Hedera to more blockchain networks and broadening access to on-chain finance. Additionally, major global logistics company FedEx has joined the Hedera Governing Council, signaling growing corporate trust in blockchain technology for improving supply chains worldwide.
Meanwhile, Ripple, Stellar’s close relative in the world of cross-border payments, and the XDC Network continue to develop their platforms, focusing on making digital asset transactions faster and more efficient. On the technical side, Hedera has also shared a migration guide for developers moving away from the older AccountBalanceQuery method, helping them adapt to newer, more efficient ways of accessing account information.
Why It Matters
These updates highlight the ongoing effort to make blockchain technology more user-friendly, scalable, and integrated into everyday business operations. For newcomers, it’s important to understand that blockchain isn’t just about cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum; it’s also about improving how we transfer money, track goods, and manage digital identities securely and transparently.
For example, Stellar’s faster Freighter wallet means that sending money across borders or interacting with decentralized finance (DeFi) apps is becoming easier and less frustrating. This matters because speed and ease of use are crucial for broader adoption, especially for people who may not be tech experts.
Hedera’s partnership with Axelar and the addition of FedEx to its council show how blockchain is moving from niche projects to real-world business solutions. By connecting different blockchains, Axelar helps users access a wider range of financial services without needing to switch platforms. FedEx’s involvement points to blockchain’s potential to transform global supply chains by making them more transparent and efficient, reducing delays and errors.
Builders’ Corner
If you’re a developer or someone interested in building on these networks, here are a few key points to note:
- Stellar’s Freighter Wallet Improvements: The recent update focuses on faster load times, meaning dApp developers can expect their users to have a smoother experience. If you build on Stellar, consider how you can leverage this improved wallet performance to enhance your projects.
- Hedera and Axelar Integration: This opens up cross-chain possibilities. Developers can now build applications that access multiple blockchains through Hedera, expanding the potential use cases for decentralized finance and beyond.
- Migration from AccountBalanceQuery: Hedera developers should review the new guidelines to ensure their apps remain compatible and take advantage of improved querying methods.
- Corporate Adoption: With FedEx joining Hedera’s council, there may be more opportunities for partnerships and pilot projects focusing on supply chain management and logistics. Builders interested in enterprise solutions should watch for new APIs or tools coming from Hedera.
Quick Prices
As of February 24, 2026, here’s a snapshot of some popular cryptocurrencies and tokens:
- Bitcoin (BTC): $64,236, down about 0.79% in the last 24 hours.
- Ethereum (ETH): $1,855.87, down around 0.49% over the past day.
- Ripple (XRP): $1.36, slightly down 0.23%.
- Stellar (XLM): $0.1505, showing a small gain of about 0.1%.
- Hedera Hashgraph (HBAR): $0.0958, up 1.52% in the last 24 hours.
- Flare Network (FLR): $0.00907, down 0.22%.
- XDC Network (XDC): $0.0335, up 0.33%.
These price changes are relatively minor, reflecting a stable market with some positive momentum in networks like Hedera and XDC.
What to Watch
Looking ahead, several trends and developments are worth keeping an eye on:
- Cross-Chain Connectivity: As projects like Axelar link different blockchains, expect more seamless movement of assets and data between networks. This could unlock new financial products and services.
- Enterprise Blockchain Adoption: FedEx’s involvement with Hedera hints at growing corporate interest. Watch for announcements on supply chain pilots or partnerships that may set new standards for global logistics.
- Wallet and User Experience Improvements: Stellar’s Freighter update is just one example. User-friendly wallets are crucial for bringing new people into the crypto space, so expect more innovations here.
- Proof-of-Stake Risks and Rewards: Stellar recently published a thoughtful article about the hidden risks of Proof-of-Stake, a popular blockchain consensus method. Understanding these risks is important for investors and developers alike.
- Prediction Markets Growth: According to recent reports, prediction markets are growing fast and could reach a $10 billion market size in the near future, offering new ways to speculate and hedge risks.
Staying informed about these developments can help both new and experienced investors make smarter decisions and spot opportunities early.
TL;DR: Stellar’s Freighter wallet got a 63% speed boost, making it easier to use. Hedera expanded its network with Axelar and welcomed FedEx to its council, signaling growing corporate blockchain adoption. Prices are mostly stable, with Hedera and XDC showing gains. Watch for cross-chain tech, enterprise partnerships, and better user experiences driving blockchain’s next phase of growth.
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