## Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Launch and Processor Details Revealed


The highly anticipated **Samsung Galaxy S26** series is slated for unveiling next Wednesday, February 25th. For those seeking a comprehensive overview of the leaked specifications, our previous articles detailing the **Galaxy S26 Ultra**, **Galaxy S26**, and **Galaxy S26+** provide extensive coverage. Recent information indicates a distinct processor strategy across the lineup, promising varied performance characteristics.


## Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Powers Galaxy S26 Ultra Globally


A key highlight of the upcoming devices is the chipset configuration. The **Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra** will exclusively utilize the **Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5** processor across all global markets. In contrast, the **Galaxy S26** and **Galaxy S26+** will feature the **Exynos 2600** in select regions, although the precise geographical distribution remains unconfirmed. Preliminary benchmark data, obtained by TechManiacs, offers valuable insights into the performance differences between these processors.


## Performance Breakdown: Snapdragon vs. Exynos in the Galaxy S26 Lineup


The **Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5** variant destined for the Galaxy S26 Ultra is a specially overclocked version, designated "for Galaxy." This customized chip boasts a Prime core cluster operating at a clock speed of 4.74GHz, a notable increase compared to the standard Elite Gen 5's 4.61GHz. This enhanced clock speed, potentially coupled with a GPU boost (though unconfirmed), contributes to a significant performance advantage. The Oryon V3 Prime cores within the Snapdragon chip operate nearly a full gigahertz faster than the ARM C1-Ultra core found in the **Exynos 2600**, resulting in a 16% improvement in single-core benchmark scores.

Despite the Snapdragon's single-core dominance, multi-core performance demonstrates remarkable parity. The difference in scores falls within the margin of error, with the Exynos 2600 exhibiting a slight 2% deficit. This is partly attributable to the Exynos 2600's deca-core CPU architecture (1+3+6) versus the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy's eight-core configuration (2+6). Geekbench 6.6.0 testing further illustrates these nuanced performance distinctions.


## Memory and Base Configuration Details


Beyond the processor specifics, all three **Galaxy S26** models will ship with a base configuration of 12GB of RAM. The **Galaxy S26 Ultra** is expected to offer a 16GB RAM option, but this appears to be exclusive to the 1TB storage variant, and was not the specific device used in the benchmark testing. For a more detailed exploration of the anticipated features and specifications of the entire **Samsung Galaxy S26** series, refer to our dedicated preview articles.

Samsung S26 Series: Launch Date & Processor Details Emerge

## Concerns Mount Over Democratic Backsliding Ahead of Midterm Elections


As the United States approaches the pivotal midterm elections, a growing number of political scientists are expressing serious concerns about a potential shift towards authoritarianism. The anxieties stem from recent actions and rhetoric that some observers believe erode democratic norms and institutions. **Staffan I. Lindberg**, director of Sweden’s V-Dem Institute, a global monitor of democratic processes, has stated that the U.S. has already surpassed a critical threshold, classifying it as an "electoral autocracy." This assessment is echoed by **Steven Levitsky**, a Harvard University professor and co-author of *How Democracies Die*, who suggests the nation may be sliding into a "mild form of competitive authoritarianism." He believes this trajectory, while potentially reversible, represents a significant threat to the country’s democratic foundations.

Competitive authoritarianism, as defined by experts, describes a system where elections are held, but the ruling party employs tactics like suppressing the press, restricting voter access, manipulating the justice system, and intimidating critics to unfairly influence electoral outcomes. These actions, while not outright eliminating elections, create an uneven playing field that undermines the fairness and integrity of the democratic process. The potential for such a shift has prompted widespread discussion and debate among political analysts and the public alike.


## Autocratic Actions and Rhetoric Raise Alarms


Recent events during the **Trump** administration have fueled these concerns, with several instances cited as examples of potentially autocratic behavior. One notable incident involved a threat directed at **Disney**, the parent company of ABC, following commentary by **Jimmy Kimmel** regarding the death of **Charlie Kirk**. **Brendan Carr**, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, issued a warning, stating, "We can do this the easy way or the hard way." Subsequently, President Trump proposed utilizing U.S. military forces to conduct training exercises within American cities. He characterized the situation as an "invasion from within," drawing parallels to foreign adversaries, despite their lack of conventional military uniforms.

These actions, reminiscent of language employed by South American dictators like **Augusto Pinochet** in Chile during the 1970s, have prompted comparisons and raised questions about the direction of American governance. The use of such rhetoric and the willingness to threaten powerful corporations have been interpreted by some as attempts to stifle dissent and consolidate power.


## Resilience of the U.S. System and Ongoing Challenges


While some scholars dispute the characterization of **Trump** as a would-be autocrat, arguing he is merely addressing perceived excesses of his predecessor, **Joe Biden**, others maintain that the U.S. system of government, though strained, remains fundamentally democratic. **Kurt Weyland**, a researcher at the University of Texas at Austin, expresses growing confidence in the nation’s ability to withstand attempts to expand executive power. He notes that while Trump initially pursued a "steamroller" approach, facing limited resistance, this has begun to change.

Weyland points to instances where Trump’s efforts to influence elections, such as through redistricting, have yielded limited success. He also highlights the public backlash following the deaths of two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis at the hands of federal agents, a situation that **Tom Homan**, former border czar, indicated is leading to a reduction in aggressive immigration enforcement tactics in Minnesota. The professor emphasizes that the failure to significantly skew future elections and the negative consequences of the Minneapolis incident demonstrate a degree of resilience within the American system.


## Threats to Election Integrity and Voter Participation


The upcoming midterm elections present a crucial test for American democracy. Concerns have been raised regarding the **Trump** administration’s pursuit of voter data from various states, a move that worries **Kim Scheppele**, a Princeton University sociologist who has studied the authoritarian tactics of Hungarian Prime Minister **Viktor Orbán**. Scheppele recalls a 2014 incident in Hungary where voters living abroad were deliberately disenfranchised through manipulated polling locations.

Furthermore, **Steve Bannon**, a close ally of Trump, recently proposed deploying **Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)** to polling places to deter undocumented voting, a practice that is statistically rare. While White House press secretary **Karoline Leavitt** denied any discussion of such a plan, and federal law prohibits it, **Brendan Nyhan**, a professor at Dartmouth College, warns that even the contemplation of such interference could suppress voter turnout among people of color and naturalized citizens who fear harassment. Nyhan emphasizes the finality of Election Day, stating, "There are no do-overs."

Midterm Elections: Fears of U.S. Democratic Decline Rise

## China's Innovative GrowHR Robot Challenges Western Robotics Dominance


For years, **Chinese authorities** and industry leaders have strived to surpass the **United States** as the global leader in technology. While historically facing challenges in competing with Silicon Valley, recent advancements in artificial intelligence are positioning China to potentially leap ahead. A notable development is the emergence of Chinese-manufactured humanoid robots entering the consumer market, showcasing designs distinct from those offered by Western brands like **Tesla** and **Boston Dynamics**. Among these innovations, **GrowHR** stands out with its remarkable ability to morph its shape, navigate water, and access confined spaces – all while maintaining a friendly, animated appearance.


## Unique Design Inspired by Human Anatomy


The groundbreaking **GrowHR** robot was developed at the **Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech)** in Shenzhen. A team of robotics researchers focused intently on replicating the intricacies of human bone structure. Their research, detailed in a paper published in *Science Advances* in January 2026, highlights the efficiency of natural bone design – lightweight yet incredibly strong. "Despite that," the authors noted, "current humanoid robots' frames are simple columns," lacking the inherent strength-to-weight ratio of biological bones. This design philosophy directly influenced GrowHR’s construction.

The robot, nearly four and a half feet tall, remarkably weighs less than 10 pounds, enabling effortless buoyancy. This contrasts sharply with competitors like **Unitree’s** G1 humanoid robot, which shares a similar height but is almost eight times heavier. To achieve this lightness, the SUSTech team utilized a series of inflatable chambers within GrowHR’s body and legs. Deflating these chambers allows the robot to shrink its height by 36% and its width by 61%, facilitating movement through tight spaces.


## Potential for Life-Saving Applications in Search and Rescue


Despite being a prototype, **GrowHR’s** designers envision a wide range of applications, particularly within search and rescue operations. The robot’s unique ability to adapt to diverse environments and its aquatic capabilities offer significant advantages over existing humanoid robots. Its buoyant, air-filled design allows it to function as a mobile lifeline, providing stable support for individuals struggling in water while it propels them to safety.

Furthermore, GrowHR’s pliable body allows it to potentially navigate hazardous environments deemed unsafe for human rescue teams. The air chambers provide crucial cushioning against impacts and falls, enhancing its resilience in unstable conditions like collapsed buildings. Coupled with advanced vision systems, **GrowHR** could represent a transformative tool for locating and assisting individuals in disaster zones. While its terrestrial mobility remains a limitation – its soft structure compromises load-bearing capacity, resulting in slow and unsteady movement on land – the robot’s innovative design holds considerable promise for future technological advancements.

China's GrowHR Robot: A Tech Leap Challenging US Robotics

## Paramount Escalates Pursuit of Warner Bros. Discovery with "Ticking Fee"


The ongoing competition for **Warner Bros. Discovery Inc.** intensified Tuesday as **Paramount Skydance Corp.** introduced a significant financial incentive to expedite regulatory approval of its acquisition bid. The company announced a quarterly “ticking fee” of $650 million, applicable to any period beyond 2026 where the $108.4 billion all-cash offer remains pending. This move underscores **Paramount’s** confidence in securing swift and favorable regulatory clearance. The $0.25 per share fee is designed to highlight this expectation.

Furthermore, **Paramount** confirmed it will also honor a $2.8 billion termination fee should **Warner Bros. Discovery** ultimately decline the current $82.7 billion all-cash agreement with **Netflix Inc.** This demonstrates the company’s commitment to the deal, despite facing repeated rejections from the **Warner Bros. Discovery** board. The escalating situation highlights the complex dynamics at play in the media landscape.


## A Superior Offer and Commitment to Shareholder Value


**Paramount Chief Executive David Ellison** emphasized the value proposition of their offer in a recent statement. “The additional benefits of our superior $30 per share, all-cash offer clearly underscore our strong and unwavering commitment to delivering the full value **WBD** shareholders deserve for their investment,” he stated. Ellison further noted the offer provides shareholders with certainty in value, a clear regulatory path, and protection against market volatility.

Following the announcement, market reactions were mixed. **Warner Bros. Discovery’s** shares experienced a slight increase, closing Tuesday at $27.8 per share, a 0.43% rise. **Paramount’s** stock also saw a modest gain, up 0.65% to close at $10.84. Conversely, **Netflix’s** shares dipped by 0.62% to $82.21. All three companies have faced declines over the past month, with **Netflix** experiencing the most significant drop at 10.94% and **Paramount** at 9.38%.


## The Battle for Warner Bros. Discovery: A Timeline of Events


The current situation stems from a series of events that began last September when **Paramount** initially presented an unsolicited offer to acquire **Warner Bros. Discovery** at $19 per share. The landscape shifted significantly in December when **Netflix** solidified a definitive agreement to acquire the streaming and studios assets of **Warner Bros. Discovery** for $72 billion in equity value. This deal also includes retained equity in **Discovery Global**, a planned spinoff of **Warner Bros. Discovery’s** cable and network assets.

**Paramount** subsequently launched a direct tender offer to shareholders at $30 per share and initiated legal action against the **Warner Bros. Discovery** board, alleging a failure to disclose crucial financial information. The company has also threatened a proxy boardroom battle, potentially occurring as early as April, to exert pressure on the board.


## Comparing Deals and Questioning Valuation


**Paramount** has actively compared **Discovery Global** to **Comcast Corp.’s** Versant Media Group Inc., arguing that a similar performance trajectory for **Discovery Global** would result in a significantly lower value for **Warner Bros. Discovery’s** shareholders under the **Netflix** deal. According to **Paramount**, “Assuming both a multiple and leverage ratio in line with Versant, **Discovery Global’s** equity value would be ~$3.55 per share, resulting in a total package value of only ~$26.75 for the **Netflix** deal.” They further asserted that **Paramount’s** $30.00 all-cash offer represents a 12% increase.


## Stakeholder Concerns and Regulatory Scrutiny


Despite repeated rejections, **Paramount’s** offer has garnered support from some stakeholders. **Pentwater Capital Management**, a significant shareholder in **HBO’s** parent company, has publicly criticized the board for overlooking what it deemed a superior offer. Activist investor **Ancora Holdings Group** has also voiced opposition to the **Netflix** merger, acquiring a $200 million minority stake in **Warner Bros. Discovery** and potentially increasing its holdings to encourage negotiations with **Paramount**.

The proposed **Netflix-Warner Bros.** megamerger is also facing increased scrutiny on Capitol Hill. The Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing Tuesday to examine the potential impact of the deal on consumers and the broader market as **Netflix** expands its influence in the entertainment industry. **Sen. Cory Booker (D-New Jersey)** expressed concerns regarding the consolidation of a “one of the largest content producers” and “one of the largest distributors,” highlighting potential implications for artists and artistic expression. **Netflix Chief Executive Ted Sarandos** assured the panel that the company would support theaters and continue to foster the growth of the American entertainment industry.

Paramount Offers $650M Incentive to Win Warner Bros. Deal

## Greenville Man Arrested Following Parking Lot Shooting Incident


**Nehemiah Austin**, a 29-year-old resident of Greenville, North Carolina, was apprehended on Friday by the **Greenville Police Department**. The arrest stems from an incident where Austin allegedly discharged a firearm in the parking area of **Da Hotbox Lounge**, prompting widespread alarm and causing several individuals to flee in fear for their safety. Court filings detail the concerning events that led to Austin’s detainment and subsequent charges.

The situation escalated further as officers attempted to take Austin into custody. According to warrants, one officer sustained a cut to their hand, and Austin reportedly attempted to bite the same officer. He also attempted to evade capture by fleeing from another officer after being instructed to halt. These actions contributed to the additional charges filed against him.


## Multiple Charges Filed in Connection with Shooting and Evasion


Following the incident, **Nehemiah Austin** faces a series of serious charges, including discharge of a firearm within city limits, resisting a public officer causing serious bodily injury, possession of a firearm by a felon, resisting a public officer, and injury to personal property. The injury to personal property charge arises from alleged damage to restraints used to secure prisoners during the arrest process. Authorities are diligently working to ensure a thorough investigation and prosecution.


## Recurring Concerns: Second Shooting at Da Hotbox Lounge in a Week


This arrest marks the second shooting incident to occur outside **Da Hotbox Lounge** on South Memorial Drive within a single week. On February 8, another individual was taken into custody after reportedly firing multiple rounds in the same location. The repeated incidents have raised concerns within the community regarding safety and security around the establishment.


## Austin Remains Detained Without Bond


Currently, **Nehemiah Austin** is being held at the **Pitt County Detention Center** without bond. The ongoing investigation is expected to reveal further details surrounding the events of Friday and the previous shooting incident. Authorities are committed to addressing the concerns raised by these events and ensuring the safety of Greenville residents.

Greenville Shooting: Man Arrested After Lounge Parking Lot Incident

## **Chase Hampton's** Recovery Progress and Future with the Yankees


According to MLB.com, **Chase Hampton**, the highly-regarded pitching prospect for the **New York Yankees**, is making encouraging strides in his recovery. The right-hander has been progressing with flat-ground throwing exercises, suggesting a potential return to game action sometime in May or June. This positive development offers a glimmer of hope for Yankees fans eager to see Hampton on the mound.


## Impact of Tommy John Surgery and Roster Protection


Last February, **Hampton** underwent **Tommy John surgery**, which unfortunately sidelined him entirely throughout the 2025 season. Despite missing the entire year, the Yankees maintain unwavering confidence in his potential. Recognizing his value to the organization, the team proactively added him to the **40-man roster** in November.


## Yankees Secure Hampton from Rule 5 Draft


The decision to add **Hampton** to the 40-man roster was a strategic move to protect him from being selected in the **Rule 5 Draft**. This ensured that the Yankees retained exclusive rights to the promising pitcher. The organization clearly views him as a key piece of their future pitching plans, despite the setback caused by the surgery.


## Anticipated Return and Development Path


Once **Hampton** is cleared to resume pitching in games, the Yankees are likely to begin his rehabilitation process at the **Double-A** level. This measured approach will allow him to gradually build up his arm strength and refine his mechanics before potentially progressing to higher levels of competition. The team’s focus remains on ensuring a complete and successful recovery for the young pitcher.

Yankees Prospect Hampton Eyes May Return After Surgery

## Understanding Your Privacy with Yahoo Services


**Yahoo**, a member of the broader Yahoo brand family, is committed to safeguarding your personal information. This commitment extends to how we utilize cookies when you interact with our websites and applications. We believe transparency is key, and this notice explains our practices and provides you with control over your data.


## How We Utilize Cookies on Yahoo Platforms


When you engage with our sites and applications, we employ **cookies** for several essential purposes. Primarily, these cookies enable us to deliver and maintain our services. They also play a crucial role in user authentication, bolstering security measures, and preventing spam and abusive activities. Furthermore, we leverage cookies to analyze user behavior and understand how our platforms are being utilized.


## Your Privacy Choices and Data Usage


Clicking "Accept All" signifies your consent for **Yahoo** and our extensive network of partners – totaling 245 entities participating in the IAB Europe Transparency Consent Framework – to store and process data collected from your device. This includes the use of cookies and the utilization of precise geolocation data, alongside technical identifiers and browsing/search data. This information is employed for analytical purposes, enabling us to deliver personalized advertising and content, measure the effectiveness of advertisements and content, conduct audience research, and contribute to the development of improved services.


## Managing Your Privacy Preferences


If you prefer not to allow **Yahoo** and our partners to utilize cookies and your personal data for these additional purposes, you can select "Reject All." For a more granular approach, clicking "Manage Privacy Settings" allows you to customize your preferences. You retain the right to withdraw your consent or modify your choices at any time by accessing the "Privacy and Cookies Settings" links or the "Privacy Dashboard" located within our sites and applications. For a comprehensive understanding of how we handle your personal data, please review our Privacy Policy and our Cookie Policy.

Yahoo's Cookie Practices: Your Privacy & Data Control Explained

## T-Mobile Store Relocates to Beltway Towne Centre on West Shore


**(AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File)**

**T-Mobile**, a leading wireless carrier, has recently shifted its presence on the West Shore, consolidating operations at a new location within the Beltway Towne Centre. The move sees the store relocating from its previous address at Silver Creek Plaza, situated at 6391 Carlisle Pike in Hampden Township, to a more prominent spot at 5401 Carlisle Pike, also within the township. This strategic repositioning aims to enhance customer accessibility and service within the region.

The Beltway Towne Centre itself occupies the site of the former Park Inn by Radisson, undergoing a significant transformation into a bustling retail and commercial hub. Anchored by the popular BJ’s Wholesale, which debuted in August, the center is rapidly evolving into a destination for shopping and dining. The development is designed to accommodate a diverse range of businesses, both large and small, contributing to the area’s economic vitality.


## New Retail and Dining Options Arriving at Beltway Towne Centre


Beyond the T-Mobile relocation, the Beltway Towne Centre is experiencing a surge in new business openings. **Raising Cane’s**, a popular chicken finger restaurant, commenced operations in November, quickly becoming a local favorite. Further bolstering the center’s appeal, **Honeygrow** is slated to open its doors on March 13, offering a fresh and customizable dining experience.

Several other exciting additions are on the horizon. **7-Brew Drive-Thru Coffee** anticipates launching by the summer, providing a convenient caffeine fix for commuters and residents alike. Joining the growing roster of tenants are **Cava Mediterranean** and **Shake Shack**, promising diverse culinary options for shoppers and visitors. These additions solidify the Beltway Towne Centre’s position as a premier retail destination.


## Business Developments Across Central Pennsylvania


The T-Mobile relocation and Beltway Towne Centre expansion are just a few highlights of recent business activity in Central Pennsylvania. Elsewhere in the region, a medical company is constructing a substantial 25,000-square-foot facility in Dauphin County. A **Lebanon County** bookstore is also expanding into a larger space to accommodate its growing customer base.

In other news, a Pennsylvania-based sandwich chain franchiser recently filed for bankruptcy, while the jewelry brand **Swarovski** is preparing to open a new store in Lancaster County. Additionally, an early education company recently launched nine new centers throughout central Pennsylvania, demonstrating continued investment in the region’s future. This is according to **Daniel Urie**, an award-winning business reporter for the PA Media Group/PennLive/The Patriot-News, who has covered the local business landscape since 2010, having been born and raised in the Harrisburg area.

T-Mobile West Shore Store Moves to Beltway Towne Centre

This **FRANCE 24** business digest, originally issued and modified on **16/02/2026** at **11:59**, offers a swift overview of key global economic and corporate developments, designed for a **1-minute** reading time. Today's headlines include an update on Japan's latest GDP figures, potential merger discussions in the media sector, and insights into China's strategy for boosting domestic spending.


## Japan's Economic Performance in Late 2025


Preliminary figures released earlier this week indicate that **Japan's economy** expanded at an annualized rate of **0.2 percent** during the **final quarter of 2025**. This modest growth marks a recovery following a period of contraction in the preceding three months. However, the reported expansion significantly underperformed market predictions, which had anticipated a more robust **1.6 percent** growth rate.

The data, made public on Monday, highlights a cautious rebound for the Japanese economy. While the return to growth is a positive sign, the disparity between actual performance and expert forecasts suggests underlying challenges or conservative spending patterns that prevented a stronger economic acceleration towards the end of last year.


## Media Industry Consolidation: Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Skydance


In the dynamic media landscape, reports suggest that **Warner Bros. Discovery** is contemplating reigniting discussions regarding a potential acquisition. The entertainment giant is reportedly looking to resume sale negotiations with **Paramount Skydance**. This development could signal significant shifts within the entertainment sector.

Such talks indicate a continued trend towards consolidation within the media industry, as major players seek to strengthen their market position and intellectual property portfolios. Should these discussions progress, it could lead to a substantial reshaping of content production and distribution.


## China's 'Winter Economy' Model for Domestic Growth


Meanwhile, **China's** innovative "winter economy" strategy is garnering attention as a potential model for stimulating internal demand. This successful approach leverages seasonal activities and related industries to encourage local consumption and economic activity during colder months.

The triumphs of this "winter economy" could serve as a valuable framework for other nations aiming to bolster their own domestic consumption levels. It offers insights into how targeted economic initiatives can effectively drive spending and support local businesses.

Japan's Economy Climbs in Q4 2025, Defying Recession.

## Asian Markets Show Mixed Performance Amid Lunar New Year


Trading activity across Asia was characterized by a mixed performance on Monday, February 16, 2026, with several key markets observing closures or shortened trading hours in anticipation of Lunar New Year celebrations. The holiday, commencing Tuesday, significantly impacted liquidity and contributed to fluctuating market sentiment. **Trader Fred Demarco**, seen working on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange on February 13, 2026, reflects the ongoing global financial activity (AP Photo/Richard Drew).


## Japan's Economic Growth Disappoints, Nikkei Declines


Tokyo’s **Nikkei 225** index experienced a slight dip, closing down 0.2% at 56,806.41. This downturn followed the release of government data indicating a slower-than-expected economic expansion during the October-December quarter. The annualized growth rate registered at a modest 0.2%. Analysts suggest this sluggish performance may intensify pressure on Japanese Prime Minister **Sanae Takaichi** to implement stimulus measures, potentially involving increased government spending and tax reductions.


## Thin Trading Volumes and Regional Variations


Reduced trading volumes were a common theme across the region, as stock exchanges in **China**, **South Korea**, and **Taiwan** remained closed for the Lunar New Year. Despite the widespread closures, some markets demonstrated positive movement. **Hong Kong’s Hang Seng** index managed a 0.5% gain in its abbreviated session, reaching 26,705.94. Meanwhile, Australia’s **S&P/ASX 200** advanced by 0.2% to 8,940.60, and India's **Sensex** saw a 0.3% increase.


## U.S. Futures Rise as Markets Await Presidents' Day


U.S. stock market futures indicated a slight upward trend, with the S&P 500 future rising 0.2% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average future also up 0.2%. This comes after U.S. markets calmed on Friday following an earlier decline fueled by concerns surrounding the potential disruption of artificial intelligence across various industries, particularly impacting software companies. A recent inflation report, suggesting easing price pressures, further contributed to the positive outlook, potentially paving the way for another Federal Reserve interest rate reduction.


## Precious Metals and Energy Markets See Shifts


Precious metals experienced a downward trend on Monday. **Gold** prices fell by 0.6% to $5,015.40 per ounce, while **silver** declined 1.9% to $76.50 an ounce. In the energy sector, U.S. benchmark crude oil edged up 1 cent to $62.90 per barrel, and **Brent** crude, the international standard, rose 2 cents to $67.77 per barrel. The U.S. dollar strengthened against the Japanese yen, trading at 153.19 yen compared to 152.64 yen, while the euro was valued at $1.1864, down from $1.1872.


Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Lunar New Year Dampens Asian Markets: Mixed Trading Seen

## Google Patches Actively Exploited Chrome Zero-Day Vulnerability (CVE-2026-2441)


On February 16, 2026, **Google** released critical security updates for its widely used **Chrome** browser, responding to a recently discovered and actively exploited vulnerability. This security patch addresses a significant flaw that poses a risk to users, marking the first actively exploited zero-day vulnerability in Chrome for 2026. The update aims to mitigate the potential for malicious actors to compromise systems through browser exploitation.

The vulnerability, formally identified as **CVE-2026-2441**, carries a high severity rating with a CVSS score of 8.8. It’s classified as a "use-after-free" bug residing within the **CSS** engine of Chrome. This type of bug occurs when a program attempts to access memory that has already been freed, potentially leading to crashes or, more critically, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code. The flaw existed in versions of Chrome prior to 145.0.7632.75.


## Details of the Discovered CSS Vulnerability and Reporting


**Shaheen Fazim**, a security researcher, is credited with identifying and reporting this critical shortcoming to Google on February 11, 2026. According to the **National Vulnerability Database (NVD)**, the vulnerability allows a remote attacker to execute code within a sandbox environment by crafting a malicious HTML page. While the specifics of the exploitation remain undisclosed by Google, the company confirmed the existence of an exploit in the wild, indicating active threat activity.

Google has refrained from providing further details regarding the exploitation methods, the perpetrators involved, or the specific targets of these attacks. This decision is common practice to prevent attackers from adapting their techniques and circumventing the newly implemented security measures. However, the acknowledgement of an active exploit underscores the urgency of applying the latest security updates.


## Browser Vulnerabilities: A Prime Target for Attackers


The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of securing web browsers, which represent a consistently attractive target for malicious actors. The pervasive nature of **Chrome**, coupled with its broad attack surface due to its widespread installation across numerous devices, makes it a prime target. Browser-based vulnerabilities provide attackers with a readily accessible entry point to compromise systems, making proactive security measures essential.

This latest patch follows a similar action by **Apple** last week, which released updates for iOS, iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, tvOS, watchOS, and visionOS to address a zero-day vulnerability (CVE-2026-20700, CVSS score: 7.8). That flaw was reportedly weaponized in an "extremely sophisticated attack" targeting specific individuals using older versions of iOS (prior to iOS 26).


## Updating Chrome and Other Chromium-Based Browsers for Enhanced Security


To ensure optimal protection, users are strongly advised to update their **Chrome** browser to version 145.0.7632.75/76 for Windows and Apple macOS, and 144.0.7559.75 for Linux. Users can easily initiate the update process by navigating to "More" > "Help" > "About Google Chrome" within the browser and selecting "Relaunch."

Furthermore, users of other browsers built upon the Chromium engine, including **Microsoft Edge**, **Brave**, **Opera**, and **Vivaldi**, should also promptly apply the available security fixes as they become available. Staying current with browser updates is a crucial step in maintaining a robust security posture against emerging threats.

Chrome Zero-Day Exploited: Google Issues Urgent Security Patch

**London, United Kingdom – February 16th, 2026** – **OpenPayd**, a prominent financial infrastructure provider, has been honored with the coveted ‘Best Early-Stage or Future Payments Initiative’ award at the recent Cards and Payments Awards. This prestigious recognition celebrates **OpenPayd's** groundbreaking **stablecoin infrastructure**, which empowers enterprises worldwide to seamlessly receive, hold, convert, and dispatch stablecoins.


## OpenPayd's Award-Winning Stablecoin Infrastructure


The acclaimed **stablecoin infrastructure**, introduced less than a year ago, represents a significant leap forward in global financial technology. It offers a **rails-agnostic solution** that integrates digital assets into payment flows with the same ease and functionality as traditional fiat currencies. This innovative system facilitates the real-time, cross-border transfer of value, drastically reducing friction in international transactions.

**Iana Dimitrova**, CEO at **OpenPayd**, expressed her enthusiasm regarding the achievement. "This award is a great milestone for OpenPayd and a strong validation of the work we’re doing to modernise global payments infrastructure," she stated. The recognition underscores the company's commitment to developing advanced solutions for the evolving digital economy.


## Driving the Future of Global Payments


This accolade firmly cements **OpenPayd's** standing at the forefront of the next generation of payment solutions. As stablecoins gain increasing traction, they are rapidly becoming an indispensable tool for enhancing the speed and efficiency of global commerce. The platform's capabilities are pivotal in enabling businesses to harness these digital assets for streamlined financial operations.

The company's innovative approach allows financial institutions, fintechs, and other global enterprises to unlock new possibilities. This includes the ability to manage stablecoins alongside traditional currencies, achieve instant cross-border settlement, and embed these digital assets directly into existing treasury and payment workflows, offering unparalleled flexibility and control.


## OpenPayd: Universal Financial Infrastructure for the Digital Age


Established in **2018** by **Dr. Ozan Ozerk**, **OpenPayd** is dedicated to constructing the foundational financial infrastructure for the burgeoning digital economy. Its comprehensive, **rails-agnostic platform** empowers businesses to manage and transfer funds globally, encompassing both traditional fiat and diverse digital assets, all accessible through a single, robust API. This unified approach simplifies complex financial operations for its users.

The suite of services provided by **OpenPayd** is extensive, featuring embedded accounts, foreign exchange (FX) capabilities, domestic and international payment processing, Open Banking solutions, and essential stablecoin on/off ramps. This diverse offering ensures seamless interoperability between conventional financial systems and the rapidly expanding digital asset landscape. Trusted by prominent global entities such as **eToro**, **Kraken**, **OKX**, and **B2C2**, **OpenPayd** currently processes an impressive annual volume exceeding **$180 billion** for over **1000 businesses**, solidifying its role as a critical enabler of the digital financial ecosystem.

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