## 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.

OpenPayd's Stablecoin Infrastructure Crowned Best Future Payments Initiative

## A By-Election Battleground: Gorton and Denton Reflect Shifting British Politics


A biting wind sweeps down Denton High Street, a stark contrast to the vibrant display of vapes behind **Usman Khan’s** counter. Khan, a recent transplant from nearby Gorton, finds himself at the heart of a pivotal moment for British politics. He is one of approximately 80,000 residents preparing to cast their ballots in the upcoming February 26 parliamentary by-election in the diverse constituency of Gorton and Denton. This area has become a microcosm of a broader national trend: the decline of traditional centrist support for both the **Labour Party** and the **Conservatives**, alongside a surge in popularity for emerging left- and right-wing political forces.

The by-election, triggered by the resignation of sitting **Labour MP Andrew Gwynne** citing health concerns following allegations of local party misconduct, is being closely watched. Analysts suggest the local Muslim vote will be a decisive factor in determining the outcome, with the result potentially echoing throughout Westminster. The stakes are high as the nation grapples with a rapidly evolving political landscape.


## Labour's Decline and the Rise of Alternatives


Following a decisive victory in 2024, the **United Kingdom’s ruling Labour Party** is currently experiencing a significant downturn, attributed to a series of policy reversals and recent controversies. This decline has created an opening for alternative parties to gain traction. The **Green Party** and the right-wing **Reform UK** are capitalizing on this shift, attracting voters disillusioned with the established political order.

“It’s a tough, tough fight between Labour and Reform,” **Usman Khan** stated to Al Jazeera, acknowledging the intensity of the competition. He also noted the potential for the **Green Party** to fragment the Labour vote. The political climate in Gorton and Denton is complex, with voters weighing their options amidst a sense of uncertainty.


## The Green Party's Opportunity and Labour's Plea for Unity


The **Green Party** views this by-election as a crucial opportunity to expand its influence. **Hannah Spencer**, the Green Party candidate, emphasized the significance of a victory, stating, “A win in Gorton and Denton would show that Greens can win everywhere in this country.” The party hopes to demonstrate its viability as a national force.

Meanwhile, the **Labour Party** is attempting to frame the election as a choice between unity and division. **Stogia**, the Labour candidate, argued that a vote for the **Green Party** would inadvertently benefit **Reform UK**. The party is actively campaigning to highlight the potential consequences of a fragmented left-wing vote.


## Local Dynamics and the Reform Challenge


Despite **Andy Burnham’s** popularity as Manchester mayor, **Reform UK’s Matthew Goodwin** is gaining momentum in Denton, particularly as the left-wing vote is split between Labour and the Greens. Goodwin, a former academic and commentator, has faced criticism for his views on race, which have alienated some residents in the multicultural area of Manchester.

“To be very honest, Reform is popular, but I would say that the Reform candidate is not popular,” **Khan** explained, stressing the importance of local connections for any elected representative. He emphasized that Goodwin is perceived as an outsider, lacking a genuine connection to the community.


## Diverse Towns, Divergent Views


The constituency of Gorton and Denton encompasses both majority-white Denton and multicultural Gorton, reflecting distinct political sentiments. While **Reform UK** may find some support in Denton during local council elections, its success in the by-election remains uncertain. Gorton, with its diverse population including a significant Muslim community (approximately 30% of the electorate), is considered more predictable.

**Professor Robert Ford** of Manchester noted that Gorton’s demographics—including a large Muslim population, students, young professionals, and families—are generally favorable to the left and the **Green Party**. He also highlighted the volatility of the Muslim vote, stating, “The Muslim vote will absolutely decide the election. It’s pivotal and hard to predict.” The community’s shift away from **Labour** in 2024, driven by concerns over the party’s stance on the conflict in Gaza, further complicates predictions.

Gorton & Denton By-Election: Key Vote in UK Politics

## New Trailer Showcases the Alchemist Class in Kingdom’s Return


**Inti Creates** has unveiled a fresh trailer for their upcoming hybrid 2D action and strategy title, *Kingdom’s Return: Time-Eating Fruit and the Ancient Monster*. This latest preview focuses on a key addition to the roster: the **Alchemist** class. The trailer provides a glimpse into the character's unique abilities and gameplay style, promising a compelling addition to the game's strategic depth. Players can anticipate a blend of tactical planning and fast-paced action when utilizing this new class.


## Mastering Potions and Status Effects: The Alchemist's Role


The **Alchemist** is portrayed as a cunning specialist, excelling in the manipulation of potions and the application of debilitating status effects. This character isn't about brute force; instead, they rely on strategic application of their arsenal. Expect to see a wide range of concoctions deployed against foes, weakening them and setting the stage for decisive attacks.

The Alchemist’s skillset extends beyond simple potion-throwing. Through the **Class Circle**, players can unlock potent abilities, culminating in devastating skills like “Chemical Blaster Omega.” This system allows for customization and specialization, enabling players to tailor the Alchemist to their preferred playstyle. Mastering these skills will be crucial for overcoming the game’s challenges.


## Release Date and Platform Availability for Kingdom’s Return


*Kingdom’s Return: Time-Eating Fruit and the Ancient Monster* is slated for release on **April 23**. The game will be available across a broad range of platforms, including **PlayStation 5**, **Xbox Series**, **Switch 2**, standard **Switch**, and **PC** via **Steam**. This wide availability ensures that players on various systems can experience the strategic action of *Kingdom’s Return*.

Kingdom’s Return: Meet the Alchemist – New Trailer!

By **PYMNTS** | **February 16, 2026**

**Embedded Finance: A Strategic Imperative for Modern Businesses**

The integration of financial services into non-financial platforms has transcended its role as a mere ancillary revenue stream, emerging as a pivotal differentiator for enterprises seeking to cultivate enduring customer relationships. New research analyzing how mid-sized and large corporations are deploying financial functionalities within their ecosystems indicates that this strategic shift is critical for sustained market relevance.

This comprehensive analysis, titled “Embedded Finance as a Strategic Initiative,” was conducted by **PYMNTS Intelligence** in collaboration with **Green Dot**. The study surveyed 515 senior leaders spanning the banking, FinTech, HR software, retail, and technology sectors, revealing the evolving landscape of embedded finance adoption and its impact on business strategy.

**Driving Customer Engagement Through Integrated Financial Services**

A significant finding highlights that fostering stronger customer and employee relationships is the primary impetus for nearly **90%** of companies offering embedded finance solutions. This motivation far surpasses traditional objectives such as generating new revenue streams or achieving cost efficiencies. The urgency surrounding these initiatives is clear, with more than three-quarters of firms planning significant upgrades to their embedded finance capabilities within the next **12 months**. A substantial **37%** of these organizations aim to implement these enhancements within just six months.

Furthermore, the demand for integrated payroll services is particularly pronounced. Among companies that do not currently provide payroll functionalities, a notable **61%** intend to incorporate them. This emphasis on financial wellness tools underscores the growing recognition that such offerings are instrumental in talent retention and attraction.

**Navigating Implementation Challenges and Strategic Partnerships**

Despite the widespread enthusiasm, the journey to seamless embedded finance integration is not without hurdles. The research indicates that **93%** of companies encounter friction across various aspects, including platform transparency, technical integration complexities, regulatory compliance, and strategic alignment. Remarkably, an identical **93%** of firms report high satisfaction with their embedded finance capabilities, suggesting that the strategic benefits outweigh operational difficulties.

When it comes to implementation, approximately **70%** of companies opt to outsource the delivery of their embedded finance solutions. The selection criteria for these external partners are predominantly strategic, with trust and business alignment being the foremost considerations for **88%** of firms. Technology and customization capabilities follow closely at **76%**, while value and pricing are considerably less critical, ranking as a top priority for only **41%** of respondents. Intriguingly, just **8%** of companies identify cost as their primary concern when choosing a provider, underscoring that strategic fit, rather than budget constraints, drives these decisions.

**Industry-Specific Adoption and Future Trajectories**

The study also uncovers distinct patterns of embedded finance adoption across different industries. **FinTech** and technology firms are at the forefront of embedded payments, with **75%** and **73%** adoption rates, respectively. Meanwhile, HR solutions providers demonstrate the strongest uptake of money movement capabilities, reaching **74%**.

Looking ahead, retailers and technology companies are exhibiting particular urgency in their upgrade timelines. **41%** of retailers and **40%** of technology firms plan to enhance their embedded finance offerings within the next six months, outpacing the overall average of **37%**. This accelerated timeline signals a competitive imperative within these sectors to leverage integrated financial services for enhanced customer and employee experiences.

Embedded Finance Powers Up Profits & Customer Loyalty for Businesses

## Evaluating the Enduring Appeal of the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF


The **Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO +0.06%)** stands as a cornerstone investment for many, and its popularity is well-deserved. This exchange-traded fund offers broad market exposure and a history of consistent performance, making it a compelling choice for long-term wealth accumulation. Despite recent market fluctuations, the question remains: does this ETF still represent a sound investment strategy? While generally affirmative, a specific risk warrants careful consideration. Image source: Getty Images.


## Historical Performance and the S&P 500 Index


The **Vanguard S&P 500 ETF** mirrors the performance of the **S&P 500 Index (^GSPC +0.05%)**, a benchmark renowned for its resilience. Remarkably, the index has not only weathered every economic downturn and bear market throughout its history but has also consistently generated positive total returns. A detailed analysis by **Crestmont Research** examining 20-year rolling returns revealed a striking pattern: each period demonstrated overall positive returns. This suggests that an investment in an S&P 500-tracking fund, regardless of the entry point, has historically yielded positive results over a 20-year timeframe.

The index’s stability stems from its composition – the 500 largest and most robust publicly traded companies in the United States. Inclusion in the **S&P 500** signifies a high level of corporate strength and established leadership within their respective industries. This rigorous selection process contributes significantly to the index’s long-term reliability.


## Potential for Wealth Accumulation with the S&P 500


The **S&P 500** has demonstrated a compelling track record of growth, averaging approximately 10% annual returns since 1957. This consistent performance highlights the potential for substantial wealth creation over time. For instance, a modest monthly investment of $200 could potentially grow to around $395,000 after three decades, illustrating the power of compounding and long-term investing.


## Understanding Market-Cap Weighting and Tech Sector Concentration


A crucial aspect of the **Vanguard S&P 500 ETF** is its market-cap-weighted structure. This means that companies with larger market capitalizations hold a proportionally greater share of the fund's assets. While this approach is generally accepted, it introduces a potential risk related to the increasing dominance of technology stocks. As technology companies experience rapid expansion, their representation within the **S&P 500** has grown significantly.

Currently, technology stocks constitute over 34% of the **Vanguard S&P 500 ETF**. **Nvidia** alone accounts for nearly 8% of the fund, closely followed by **Apple** and **Microsoft** as the top three holdings. While the tech sector has undeniably fueled the ETF’s recent gains, investors prioritizing safety and stability should be aware that a downturn in this sector could lead to greater-than-anticipated volatility. Despite the likelihood of positive long-term returns, the ETF’s concentrated exposure to technology presents a factor to consider before making an investment decision.


Katie Brockman has positions in Vanguard S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Vanguard S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Vanguard S&P 500 ETF: Still a Smart Investment in 2024?

## DHS Funding Lapse Triggers Government Shutdown Amidst Immigration Debate


The **Department of Homeland Security (DHS)** faced a funding expiration over the weekend, initiating the third partial federal government shutdown during **President Donald Trump’s** second term. This financial impasse arises as legislative negotiations between **Republicans** and **Democrats** remain at an impasse, with Congress adjourned until **February 23**. The shutdown directly impacts numerous critical agencies, including the **Transportation Security Administration (TSA)**, the **Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)**, **Customs and Border Protection (CBP)**, **Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)**, and the **US Coast Guard**.

At major US airports, the funding void has led to the furlough of **2,933** out of **64,130** TSA employees. The remaining **95 percent** of TSA personnel will continue their duties without remuneration until the DHS secures the necessary funding. This situation underscores the significant disruption caused by the shutdown, affecting essential services and personnel across the nation.


## Fatal Shootings Fuel Democratic Calls for Immigration Reform


Recent tragic events have intensified Democratic demands for stricter oversight of immigration enforcement. The fatal shootings of **Alex Pretti** and **Renee Good** by federal officers from ICE and Border Patrol during operations in Minneapolis last month have become a focal point of the debate. These incidents have galvanized lawmakers to push for significant changes within the DHS.

In response to these killings, state officials in Minnesota reported on **Monday** that the **FBI** has declined to share crucial evidence with state law enforcement regarding **Pretti’s** death on **January 24**. **Drew Evans**, superintendent of Minnesota’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, expressed his dismay, stating in a release, “This lack of cooperation is concerning and unprecedented.”


## Congressional Democrats Propose Immigration Enforcement Restrictions


Leading Democrats have put forth a series of ten demands aimed at curtailing the scope of immigration enforcement activities. In a formal letter, **House of Representatives Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries** outlined these proposals, emphasizing the need for enhanced scrutiny of the DHS. The proposed measures aim to address public concerns and prevent further loss of life.

The Democratic agenda includes provisions such as prohibiting DHS officers from entering private residences without a warrant and requiring verification of non-US citizenship status before an individual can be placed in immigration detention. Furthermore, they advocate for mandatory identification and visible uniforms for all DHS officers, prohibiting the use of masks during operations. The party also seeks to restrict immigration enforcement actions near sensitive locations like schools, places of worship, and medical facilities.

DHS Funding Fails: Shutdown Looms Over Immigration Stalemate

## Rising Healthcare Costs Drive Americans to Seek Affordable Care Abroad


Soaring medical expenses within the United States are prompting a growing number of Americans to explore alternative healthcare solutions overseas, particularly in nations offering universal health coverage. A recent survey by the West Health-Gallup Center for Healthcare in America revealed that nearly half of American adults express concern about affording necessary medications or health-related costs, a figure representing the highest level of anxiety recorded since 2021. This trend, coupled with factors like stricter food safety regulations and a desire for safer environments, is fueling a wave of expatriation.


## A Personal Struggle with Asthma and Costly Treatment


**Hilary Hodge**, a U.S. resident, exemplifies this shift. Since childhood, Hodge has battled severe allergic asthma, a condition that worsened over time despite conventional treatments. By age 32, her inhaler offered little relief, transforming her chronic respiratory illness into "a big struggle," as she shared with USA TODAY. In 2012, she found a glimmer of hope in biologic medication, a specialized treatment option. However, the cost of this potentially life-changing therapy in the United States proved prohibitive – a staggering $36,000 annually. In contrast, the same treatment was available for just $3,000 annually across the Atlantic.


## Finding Relief and a New Home in France


In 2017, Hodge and her husband made a temporary relocation to France to be closer to his family and friends. The immediate access to affordable biologic medication proved transformative. "That was sort of one of the very first experiences I had with realizing how different the systems were," Hodge recounted. The initial temporary move swiftly evolved into a more permanent decision, culminating in homeownership and the arrival of their son. "It just sort of all of a sudden turned a lot more permanent, I guess we're here," Hodge stated, emphasizing that accessible and affordable healthcare played a significant role in their decision.


## Exploring International Healthcare Options and Expatriation Trends


Beyond Hodge’s story, a broader trend is emerging. Countries like Canada, Japan, and those within the European Union offer significantly lower healthcare costs, universal access, and streamlined processes for citizens and eligible visa holders. According to a recent American Expats Survey by The Harris Poll, 38% of respondents cited cheaper, better healthcare as a primary motivator for considering expatriation. **Michelle Garabito**, of the luxury relocation service The Lux Nomads, has observed a substantial increase in clients seeking relocation for health-related reasons, including families with young children and retirees prioritizing a higher quality of life.


## The Financial Burden of U.S. Healthcare


The United States consistently spends the most on healthcare globally. In 2025, the average cost of a family health insurance plan reached $26,993, representing a 6% increase from the previous year. Unexpected medical emergencies or serious diagnoses, such as cancer, can easily plunge individuals into substantial debt. Hodge explained, "In the States, you kind of do the math… Like, how sick do I have to get to go pay that $500 deductible?" This financial anxiety is a driving force for many seeking alternatives abroad.


## Beyond Cost: Food Safety and Quality of Life


The benefits of relocating extend beyond just healthcare costs. **Leah Mark**, who moved to Mallorca, Spain, in June, highlights the European Union’s stricter food standards, which prohibit numerous additives and preservatives commonly found in American food products. Mark also noted the affordability of food in Europe, contributing to an overall improved quality of life. She initially considered relocating within the U.S. but ultimately chose to move abroad due to concerns about “the toxic culture, the food, and the increasing political unrest.” A tragic shooting near her former home in Indiana solidified her decision, prompting her to pursue a digital nomad visa with the assistance of The Lux Nomads.


## Navigating the Process of Relocation and Healthcare Access


Relocating abroad is a complex undertaking requiring legal documentation, logistical planning, and emotional adjustments. Garabito recommends a one-month trial run in various European countries to assess the lifestyle and healthcare system firsthand. Obtaining legal residency and access to public healthcare typically involves securing a visa, such as a digital nomad or non-lucrative visa, which often requires private health insurance. The entire process, from visa approval to healthcare enrollment, can take approximately three to six months. In countries like Portugal, Spain, and Greece, digital nomad visas can serve as a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship. Ultimately, for many Americans, the pursuit of better health and overall well-being makes the challenges of relocation worthwhile.

Americans Flocking Abroad for Cheaper Healthcare & Drugs

## Introducing Financial Literacy: A New Class at South Orangetown Middle School


Seventh-grade students at **South Orangetown Middle School** in **Blauvelt** are now benefiting from a pioneering new program: the Finance and Careers class. This initiative marks the school’s first dedicated offering in financial literacy and career exploration, designed to equip young learners with essential life skills before they transition to high school. The curriculum aims to provide a foundational understanding of financial principles and potential career paths.

According to **Lindsay Richmond**, the business teacher spearheading the program, the class is strategically timed to introduce these concepts at a crucial developmental stage. “The objective is to familiarize students with career exploration and the fundamentals of a paycheck,” Richmond explained. “This preparation ensures they possess a degree of comprehension when they receive their initial paycheck, enabling them to verify its accuracy and grasp the associated processes.”


## Preparing Students for Future Financial Success


The Finance and Careers class is a proactive response to evolving educational mandates. **Richmond** noted that the state is implementing a requirement for high school graduation that includes financial literacy. Consequently, schools are increasingly encouraged to introduce these vital concepts during middle school. This early exposure is intended to build a strong foundation for future financial well-being.

The program’s ultimate goal is to provide students with a basic understanding of financial principles—a skillset that **Richmond** believes many adults wish they had acquired earlier in life. “It’s a fundamental knowledge base that can significantly impact their future decisions and overall financial health,” she stated.


## Adapting to the Unique Landscape of Education


The educational landscape is dynamic, with each school year comprising 180 days, and no two days or schools are ever precisely alike. Student populations, teaching styles, and school cultures all contribute to a unique environment. This ongoing series aims to highlight the distinctive elements that make each school day memorable, showcasing the individuals, programs, and events that contribute to a positive learning experience. Be sure to check back on lohud.com each Monday for the "lohud in our schools" feature.

Blauvelt Students Get Head Start with New Finance Class

## NBA Considers Alternatives to Draft System to Combat Tanking


INGLEWOOD, Calif. – The **NBA** is signaling a potential shift in its player acquisition strategy, with **Commissioner Adam Silver** acknowledging discussions surrounding alternatives to the current draft system. Following a news conference on Saturday and subsequent reporting by **Joe Vardon**, the league appears open to exploring options beyond the draft as the primary means of onboarding college players, a move aimed at curbing the increasingly prevalent practice of tanking. This represents a significant development, suggesting the league recognizes the need to address systemic issues impacting competitive balance.

The current draft system, while long-standing, has incentivized teams to strategically lose games to secure higher lottery odds, a phenomenon known as tanking. This practice undermines the integrity of the regular season and diminishes fan engagement. Silver’s willingness to entertain alternative approaches indicates a growing concern within the league about the detrimental effects of this behavior and a desire to foster a more consistently competitive environment.


## Recent League Fines Highlight Enforcement Challenges


Last week, the **NBA** levied financial penalties against two teams for actions related to player availability. The **Utah Jazz** were fined $500,000, while the **Indiana Pacers** received a $100,000 fine. These penalties stemmed from separate incidents involving the Jazz playing a player deemed healthy enough to participate and the Pacers holding a player out of a game. The decisions sparked criticism from fans of both teams, who perceived the enforcement of rules as inconsistent. Other teams, including the **Kings**, **Wizards**, and **Nets**, braced for potential league action following similar situations earlier in the season.

However, the financial repercussions of these fines appear insufficient to deter teams with significant financial resources. With **NBA** franchises now valued at record highs, often owned by billionaires, hedge-fund titans, and bolstered by international investments, the cost of a fine is unlikely to outweigh the potential benefits of securing a top draft pick, particularly in a highly anticipated draft class like the projected **2026 draft**.


## Exploring Solutions: Beyond Fines and the Current Draft


During his news conference, Silver addressed the possibility of exploring more impactful measures to discourage tanking. “There is talk about every possible remedy now to stop this behavior,” he stated, signaling a broader review of existing policies. The league is actively seeking solutions that can encourage teams to prioritize competition while preserving the core elements of the current lottery and draft system.

The recent surge of proposed solutions and fixes for the lottery highlights the urgency of the situation. Eliminating the lottery and draft altogether would fundamentally alter the incentive structure for teams. The rationale for intentionally losing games to improve draft position would vanish, as the reward—a high draft pick—would no longer exist. While this wouldn't eliminate all instances of poor performance—factors like coaching, injuries, and front-office decisions would still contribute to team outcomes—it would remove a significant driver of tanking.


## A Potential Shift: Removing the Draft Incentive


Removing the lottery and draft would force teams to rely on their own merits to attract and retain talent. This would necessitate a focus on building strong organizations, demonstrating a commitment to player development, and creating a desirable environment for both players and coaches. Teams would need to cultivate relationships with agents, secure favorable contracts, and invest in state-of-the-art facilities to attract top players.

This system would level the playing field, requiring all teams—from established powerhouses like the **Lakers** and **Clippers** to smaller markets like **Charlotte** and **Utah**—to compete for talent based on their organizational strength. While some markets might face challenges in attracting star players, the scarcity of **NBA** roster spots and the league’s salary cap structure would prevent any single team from dominating the talent pool. This approach mirrors the dynamics of college sports, where Power 4 schools compete for recruits, but opportunities exist for programs beyond the elite few.


Ultimately, the **NBA’s** exploration of alternatives to the draft system represents a crucial step towards addressing the issue of tanking and fostering a more competitive and engaging league for fans.

NBA Eyes Draft Overhaul to Tackle Tanking Concerns

## Daily Political Analysis with CNN Inside Politics


**CNN Inside Politics**, a weekday program anchored by **Dana Bash**, delivers a comprehensive overview of the day's most significant political developments. A team of experienced and reliable reporters joins Bash to provide insightful analysis and context. On Sunday mornings, **Manu Raju** initiates CNN’s political programming with *Inside Politics Sunday*, offering a weekend perspective on crucial issues. Both programs aim to provide clarity on complex political narratives and their potential impact.


## New Scrutiny for DHS Secretary Noem Over Election Control


A fresh controversy has emerged surrounding **Kristi Noem**, the current **DHS** Secretary, centering on Republican efforts to exert greater influence over election processes. The situation unfolded during a recent discussion regarding the party’s stance on electoral oversight. This latest development adds to the ongoing scrutiny of Noem’s leadership and policy positions.


## Noem's Comments Spark Debate and Criticism


The controversy stems from Noem’s remarks advocating for ensuring that "the right people" are participating in the voting process and subsequently electing "the right leaders." This statement immediately drew criticism and prompted questions from members of the press. When confronted about the implications of her words, Noem reportedly responded defensively to the inquiries.


## Examining the Implications of Noem's Statements


The incident, which occurred on February 16, 2026, during a *CNN Inside Politics* segment lasting 43 minutes, highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding election integrity and voter access. Noem’s comments have ignited a debate about the role of government in regulating elections and the potential for partisan influence. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are anticipated as the controversy continues to unfold.

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