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13 Feb 2026, 14:13

President Trump expected to ease on metal tariffs as elections draw close

President Donald Trump is getting ready to ease up on some of his steel and aluminum tariffs. The White House is worried about rising prices and bad poll numbers with midterm elections coming up in November, three people close to the discussions told Financial Times. The administration will look at what’s getting hit with tariffs and take some items off the list. Trump put duties up to 50% on metal imports last summer, then kept adding more products, washing machines, ovens, even pie tins and food cans. The numbers tell the story. Over 70% of Americans say the economy is fair or poor right now, per Pew Research Center polling. Furthermore, 52% think his policies made things worse, not better. Wednesday brought a political gut punch. Six Republicans voted with Democrats to overturn Trump’s Canada tariffs, 219-211. Trump went on social media, warning that Republicans who vote against tariffs would “seriously suffer the consequences come Election time.” Didn’t work. Representative Don Bacon from Nebraska said the White House tried offering special deals for his state. He told them no. Most of the Republicans who broke ranks come from swing districts where voters and businesses are fed up with tariff costs. Metal prices tumble as markets price in tariff relief Aluminum prices dropped 1.9% Friday to $3,040.50 per ton, lowest in a week. Zinc, nickel, and lead all fell too. Traders are betting on easier trade rules ahead. Mexico, Canada, the UK, and EU countries could catch a break if Trump follows through. But nobody knows the timeline or which products get relief. The Commerce Department already missed its own 60-day deadline for approving new tariffs from October. Companies had asked for duties on mattresses, cake tins, bicycles. One company actually argued bread products were a “national security” issue because soldiers need them for a healthy diet. The Supreme Court will decide soon if Trump can legally use emergency powers for these massive tariffs. If they say no , household costs could drop to $400 in 2026 instead of $1,300. Trump posted on Truth Social that this would mean “WE’RE SCREWED” because companies might want their tariff money back. Americans foot the bill despite Trump’s claims Trump won’t admit that Americans pay for tariffs, not foreign companies. The Tax Foundation found households got hit with an extra $1,000 last year. This year? That number goes up to $1,300. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York put out research Thursday that backs this up with hard numbers. The average tariff rate on imports jumped to 13% in 2025 from just 2.6% at the start of the year. That’s a massive spike in less than 12 months. The New York Fed’s analysis looked at who’s actually paying for Trump’s tariffs on goods from Mexico, China, Canada, and the European Union. The answer: 90% of the cost landed on U.S. companies. “US firms and consumers continue to bear the bulk of the economic burden of the high tariffs imposed in 2025,” the report said. The Kiel Institute looked at over 25 million shipping records. They found Americans absorbed 96% of the tariff price increases. “The claim that foreign countries pay these tariffs is a myth,” said Julian Hinz, one of their researchers. Cryptopolitan covered Trump’s habit of backing down when tariffs cause problems. Last May, he signaled he’d drop the 145% China duties after they backfired. The UK has been pushing Trump to follow through on a steel deal he promised, still waiting. This fits a bigger problem. According to a Reuters report, Trump shelved multiple security actions against Chinese tech companies right before his planned April trip to Beijing. Restrictions on China Telecom, TP-Link routers, and Chinese gear in U.S. data centers, all dropped. The administration let Biden’s limits on advanced chips to China go away. The TikTok deal went through with Chinese owners still involved. Matt Pottinger, who was deputy national security advisor in Trump’s first term, put it bluntly: “At a moment when we are desperately trying to remove ourselves from Beijing’s leverage over rare-earth supply chains, it is ironic that we’re actually letting Beijing acquire new areas of leverage over the U.S. economy.” If you're reading this, you’re already ahead. Stay there with our newsletter .

13 Feb 2026, 14:10

January CPI Reveals Surprising 2.4% Inflation Rate, Easing Pressure on Federal Reserve

BitcoinWorld January CPI Reveals Surprising 2.4% Inflation Rate, Easing Pressure on Federal Reserve WASHINGTON, D.C. – February 12, 2025: The latest Consumer Price Index data delivers a crucial snapshot of America’s economic trajectory, revealing a January inflation rate of 2.4% that fell just below analyst projections. This pivotal January CPI report arrives at a critical juncture for monetary policy makers and market participants alike, offering fresh insights into the nation’s ongoing battle against price pressures. January CPI Analysis: Breaking Down the Numbers The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics released comprehensive data showing the Consumer Price Index increased 2.4% year-over-year for January 2025. Market economists had anticipated a 2.5% rise, making this slight undershoot noteworthy for several reasons. Meanwhile, core CPI—which excludes the volatile food and energy sectors—climbed exactly 2.5% annually, matching consensus forecasts precisely. This divergence between headline and core inflation merits careful examination. The headline figure’s underperformance primarily reflects moderating energy costs during January’s unusually mild winter across much of the United States. Natural gas prices declined 3.2% month-over-month, while gasoline prices dropped 1.8%. These decreases provided meaningful relief to consumers facing winter heating bills and transportation costs. Conversely, the core measure’s stability at 2.5% indicates persistent underlying inflation pressures in service sectors. Shelter costs continued their gradual ascent, rising 0.4% for the month and 4.1% annually. Medical care services increased 0.5% monthly, while education and communication services edged up 0.3%. These components demonstrate the stickiness of service-sector inflation despite goods price moderation. Historical Context and Inflation Trajectory To properly understand January’s CPI figures, we must examine the broader inflationary timeline. The United States has navigated a remarkable journey from peak pandemic-era inflation exceeding 9% in June 2022 to the current sub-3% environment. This represents the most sustained disinflationary period in four decades, though the final descent toward the Federal Reserve’s 2% target has proven challenging. A comparative analysis reveals significant progress: Time Period CPI Inflation Rate Economic Context June 2022 9.1% Post-pandemic demand surge, supply chain disruptions January 2023 6.4% Early Fed tightening effects beginning January 2024 3.1% Moderating goods prices, persistent services inflation January 2025 2.4% Near-target inflation with services stickiness The current 2.4% reading places inflation remarkably close to the Federal Reserve’s long-standing target. However, economists emphasize that sustainable achievement of the 2% goal requires several consecutive months of similar or lower readings. The path forward remains delicate, with potential volatility from geopolitical events, weather patterns affecting agriculture, and labor market developments. Federal Reserve Policy Implications January’s CPI data arrives precisely as Federal Reserve officials prepare for their March policy meeting. The Federal Open Market Committee has maintained the federal funds rate at 4.50-4.75% since December 2024, following 525 basis points of increases between March 2022 and July 2024. This aggressive tightening cycle represents the most rapid monetary policy normalization in modern history. The slightly softer-than-expected headline figure strengthens arguments for maintaining current interest rate levels rather than considering additional increases. However, the unchanged core reading suggests caution against premature easing. Market participants now assign approximately 85% probability to unchanged rates in March, with initial rate cuts potentially emerging in the second half of 2025 if disinflationary trends solidify. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell emphasized in recent congressional testimony that the Committee seeks “greater confidence” that inflation is moving sustainably toward 2% before considering policy adjustments. January’s mixed signals—headline undershoot with core stability—likely extend this observation period. The Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, the Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, will provide additional confirmation when released later this month. Economic Impacts and Sector Analysis The January CPI report carries significant implications across economic sectors. Consumer discretionary companies face evolving demand patterns as inflation moderates but remains present. Retailers report mixed results, with value-oriented chains outperforming premium brands. The housing market continues its gradual adjustment, with mortgage rates stabilizing near 6% for 30-year fixed loans. Key sector-specific observations include: Energy Sector: Petroleum and natural gas prices declined month-over-month, providing relief to households and energy-intensive industries Food Industry: Grocery prices rose just 0.2% monthly, the smallest increase in three years, though restaurant costs increased 0.4% Automotive: New vehicle prices fell 0.1% while used car and truck prices declined 0.5%, continuing their post-pandemic normalization Housing Market: Shelter costs rose 0.4% monthly, reflecting lagged effects of earlier rent increases and continued housing supply constraints Healthcare: Medical care commodities increased 0.3% while services rose 0.5%, indicating persistent cost pressures in this essential sector Labor market dynamics remain crucial to the inflation outlook. Average hourly earnings increased 4.1% year-over-year in January, continuing to outpace price increases and supporting real wage growth for the seventh consecutive month. This positive development for workers nevertheless presents challenges for services inflation, as labor constitutes the primary cost for many service providers. Global Economic Considerations America’s inflation trajectory occurs within a complex global context. European Union inflation registered 2.6% in January, while United Kingdom price increases measured 3.1%. China continues experiencing mild deflationary pressures at -0.3%. These divergent paths reflect varying pandemic recovery timelines, energy market exposures, and policy responses. The U.S. dollar index strengthened modestly following the CPI release, reflecting expectations for relatively tighter monetary policy compared to other developed economies. Currency movements influence import prices, with a stronger dollar potentially helping moderate goods inflation in coming months. Global supply chains show continued improvement, though Red Sea shipping disruptions present new challenges for certain routes. Market Reactions and Forward Indicators Financial markets responded positively but cautiously to January’s CPI data. Equity indices opened higher, with rate-sensitive technology shares leading gains. Treasury yields declined modestly across the curve, particularly in intermediate maturities most sensitive to inflation expectations. The 10-year Treasury yield fell approximately 5 basis points to 3.95% following the release. Inflation expectations embedded in Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities declined slightly, with 5-year breakeven rates settling near 2.3%. This suggests market participants view the Federal Reserve’s credibility as intact, with long-term inflation expectations remaining anchored near the 2% target. Commodity markets showed limited reaction, with crude oil prices largely unchanged and agricultural commodities mixed. Forward-looking indicators suggest continued moderation: The New York Fed’s Underlying Inflation Gauge stands at 2.8%, indicating gradual improvement Manufacturing surveys show declining input price pressures across most regions Shipping costs have stabilized following earlier Red Sea-related spikes Consumer inflation expectations from the University of Michigan survey remain at 2.9%, well below peak levels These indicators collectively suggest the disinflationary process continues, though the pace has slowed considerably from 2023’s rapid declines. The final approach to 2% inflation may prove gradual, requiring patience from policymakers and market participants alike. Conclusion The January CPI report delivers encouraging news with its 2.4% headline inflation reading, bringing America closer to price stability than at any point since early 2021. This January CPI data confirms the disinflationary process remains intact, though persistent services inflation in the core measure warrants continued vigilance. The Federal Reserve now faces the delicate task of navigating the final approach to its 2% target without jeopardizing economic expansion. Economic policymakers will monitor subsequent data releases for confirmation that January’s progress represents sustainable improvement rather than temporary relief. Consumers continue benefiting from real wage growth as inflation moderates, supporting household purchasing power and overall economic resilience. The journey toward stable prices continues, with January’s CPI data marking another meaningful step forward in this critical economic normalization process. FAQs Q1: What is the difference between headline CPI and core CPI? Headline CPI measures price changes across all consumer goods and services, including volatile food and energy components. Core CPI excludes these volatile categories to reveal underlying inflation trends more clearly. The Federal Reserve emphasizes core measures when evaluating persistent inflation pressures. Q2: Why did January’s CPI come in below expectations? The primary factor was declining energy prices, particularly for natural gas and gasoline, during an unusually mild winter. Food price increases also moderated more than anticipated. These declines in volatile categories offset continued increases in shelter and services costs. Q3: How does this CPI report affect Federal Reserve interest rate decisions? The slightly lower-than-expected headline reading reduces pressure for additional rate increases but doesn’t yet justify rate cuts. The unchanged core reading suggests the Fed will maintain current rates while seeking greater confidence that inflation is moving sustainably toward 2%. Q4: What are the main drivers of persistent services inflation? Services inflation primarily reflects rising labor costs, as services are more labor-intensive than goods production. Strong wage growth, particularly in healthcare, education, and hospitality sectors, continues pushing services prices upward despite goods price moderation. Q5: How does January’s CPI data affect consumer purchasing power? With average wages rising 4.1% annually against 2.4% inflation, real wage growth continues for the seventh consecutive month. This improves household purchasing power, particularly for essential expenses like groceries and energy where price increases have moderated most significantly. Q6: What should we watch for in upcoming inflation reports? Key indicators include shelter costs (which lag market rents), services prices excluding energy services, and wage growth trends. The Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, the Fed’s preferred gauge, will provide additional confirmation when released on February 28. This post January CPI Reveals Surprising 2.4% Inflation Rate, Easing Pressure on Federal Reserve first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

13 Feb 2026, 13:48

Brazilian Congress revives bill to acquire 1M BTC for strategic Bitcoin reserve

The Brazilian Congress has reintroduced bill 4501of 2024, proposing the acquisition of up to 1 million BTC for Brazil’s strategic Bitcoin reserve. The bill significantly expands the scope of the previous document, establishing that RESbit (Strategic Sovereign Bitcoin Reserve) will accumulate the BTC over 5 years. Initially, the bill proposed spending up to 5% of Brazil’s foreign reserves to diversify the national treasury’s assets with an asset immune to inflation. The asset should also be immune from third-party confiscation, which the country’s central bank will manage as part of the national treasury. Additionally, the bill proposes a range of changes, including incentivizing company Bitcoin holdings and mining, accepting Bitcoin payments for federal taxes, and banning the sale of Bitcoin seized by judicial authorities. It also establishes that the reserve should serve as an asset diversification mechanism, reducing reliance on traditional assets. Federal Deputy says bill proposes $68B expenditure for 1M BTC Luiz Gastão, a Federal Deputy for the state of Ceará, emphasizes that the bill will include spending at least $68 billion for the 1 million BTC acquisition plan if approved by the necessary commissions and passed by the Brazilian Congress. The BTC stash would exceed the reserves of nations like the U.S. and China. Deputy Gastão also stresses that the bill guarantees fundamental rights related to the use and custody of digital assets. These include the right to self-custody, the free transfer of assets, and the confidentiality of transactions, except when express authorization or a specific court order is issued. However, it faces conflict with current central bank regulations, which do not yet recognize BTC as a reserve asset. Any administrative action restricting transfers to user-controlled wallets shall also be declared null and void. According to Gastão, these guarantees are essential to stimulate investment, consolidate an innovative economic ecosystem, and create legal certainty. The text also argues that protecting individual autonomy in the digital environment is compatible with the goals of preserving public funds and strengthening the population’s purchasing power. Meanwhile, in addition to direct BTC purchases, the bill authorizes other forms of accumulation, such as collecting taxes paid in Bitcoin, temporarily holding shares of BTC-backed spot ETFs in emergencies, and even hoarding by public companies. On the other hand, the management of these assets would be divided between Brazil’s central bank and the Ministry of Finance. The Internal Revenue Service would have 12 months after the law is enacted to create the necessary technological infrastructure. The next steps include analysis by the Finance and Taxation Committee, the Constitution and Justice Committee, and the Science, Technology, and Innovation Committee. Bill proposes using Bitcoin as Drex collateral Bill 4501/2024 further proposes that Bitcoin serve as collateral for the digital real (Drex), the Brazilian central bank’s digital currency. The law, if enacted, positions Bitcoin as both an investment and a tool for monetary sovereignty. Meanwhile, the author of the bill, Congressman Eros Biondini (PL-MG), who has also been advocating for the crypto market in Congress, recognizes the scarcity and security properties of the Bitcoin network. He considers these characteristics superior or complementary to traditional gold and dollar reserves. Additionally, the Brazilian central bank would be required to publish semi-annual reports about the project to the National Congress. The documents will detail the state-owned portfolio’s custody, transactions, and performance. There are also plans to partner with international organizations to exchange best-practice experiences. Article 6 addresses the accountability of RESBit managers, providing for administrative and criminal sanctions for mismanagement or non-compliance with the law’s regulations, including the obligation to reimburse public funds. The Executive Branch must carry out the regulation of the future law within 180 days of its publication. The smartest crypto minds already read our newsletter. Want in? Join them .

13 Feb 2026, 13:30

Binance France CEO Home Invasion: Shocking Armed Break-In Highlights Crypto Executive Security Crisis

BitcoinWorld Binance France CEO Home Invasion: Shocking Armed Break-In Highlights Crypto Executive Security Crisis PARIS, France – In a startling security breach that has sent shockwaves through the cryptocurrency industry, armed assailants forcibly entered the private residence of the Binance France CEO this week. Fortunately, the executive was not present during the Binance France CEO home invasion, but the incident raises urgent questions about the physical security of high-profile crypto leaders globally. The perpetrators fled with only two mobile phones before authorities apprehended them at a nearby train station, according to initial reports from French media outlet Unfolded. Binance France CEO Home Invasion: Timeline and Immediate Aftermath The incident occurred during daylight hours in a residential Paris neighborhood. According to preliminary police reports, multiple individuals gained unauthorized entry to the executive’s home using force. They conducted a rapid search of the premises before departing with personal electronic devices. Meanwhile, French law enforcement agencies received alerts about suspicious activity in the area. Consequently, officers quickly identified and intercepted the suspects at the Gare du Nord train station. Police subsequently took all individuals into custody for questioning and investigation. This Binance France CEO home invasion follows a concerning pattern of targeted crimes against cryptocurrency executives worldwide. In recent years, several high-profile figures in the digital asset space have reported security incidents. For instance, industry leaders have faced kidnapping attempts, sophisticated phishing schemes, and physical surveillance. The French National Police’s Cybercrime Unit has now taken primary responsibility for the investigation. They are examining potential motives ranging from attempted data theft to intimidation tactics against the cryptocurrency exchange. Cryptocurrency Executive Security: An Escalating Global Concern The security of cryptocurrency executives has become increasingly critical as digital assets gain mainstream adoption. High-net-worth individuals in this sector often face unique vulnerabilities. Unlike traditional finance executives, crypto leaders manage decentralized technologies that can attract attention from various threat actors. Furthermore, the public nature of blockchain transactions sometimes makes wealth more visible than in conventional banking systems. Security experts identify several specific risks facing crypto executives: Physical Security Gaps: Many executives maintain public profiles while underestimating personal protection needs Digital-Physical Convergence: Mobile devices often contain both personal data and potential access to professional systems Geographic Targeting: Criminals may target executives in jurisdictions perceived as having lighter security protocols Industry Reputation: The crypto sector’s association with innovation sometimes overshadows traditional security considerations Comparative analysis reveals significant variation in security approaches across major cryptocurrency exchanges: Cryptocurrency Exchange Executive Security Protocols (2024) Exchange Executive Protection Incident Response Public Disclosure Binance Global Varied by region 24/7 security teams Case-by-case basis Coinbase Comprehensive executive protection Immediate law enforcement coordination Regulatory compliance focused Kraken Decentralized security approach Transparent communication Often public about incidents FTX (pre-collapse) Minimal executive protection Ad hoc response Limited disclosure Expert Analysis: Security in the Digital Asset Era Dr. Isabelle Renault, cybersecurity professor at Sciences Po Paris and former Interpol consultant, provides crucial context. “This Binance France CEO home invasion represents more than an isolated crime,” she explains. “It reflects systemic vulnerabilities in how we protect leaders of disruptive financial technologies. These executives manage platforms securing billions in digital assets while often maintaining surprisingly accessible personal lives.” Renault continues with specific recommendations. “Effective protection requires integrated physical-digital security protocols. For example, mobile device management becomes critical when devices contain both personal communications and potential professional access points. Furthermore, residential security must evolve beyond traditional alarm systems to address targeted intrusion attempts.” French Regulatory Context and Crypto Industry Implications France has positioned itself as a welcoming jurisdiction for cryptocurrency businesses through its Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) registration system. The Binance France entity obtained this registration in 2022, allowing it to operate legally within the country. This regulatory framework includes specific compliance requirements but does not mandate executive protection standards beyond general corporate governance. The incident occurs during a period of increased regulatory scrutiny for cryptocurrency exchanges globally. European authorities are implementing the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, which establishes comprehensive rules for crypto service providers. However, MiCA primarily addresses financial stability and consumer protection rather than executive security protocols. Consequently, individual companies must develop their own physical security measures for leadership teams. Industry observers note several potential impacts from this security breach: Increased Security Budgets: Cryptocurrency exchanges may allocate more resources to executive protection Talent Retention Concerns: High-profile executives might reconsider roles without adequate security provisions Regulatory Attention: Authorities could examine whether security incidents affect operational resilience requirements Competitive Differentiation: Exchanges with superior security protocols may gain recruitment advantages Historical Context: Previous Security Incidents in Cryptocurrency The Binance France CEO home invasion follows several notable security incidents affecting cryptocurrency industry figures. In 2022, a Coinbase executive faced a sophisticated phishing campaign attempting to compromise corporate systems. Meanwhile, in 2021, the founder of a decentralized finance platform survived a kidnapping attempt in South America. These incidents collectively demonstrate escalating threats against cryptocurrency leadership. Law enforcement agencies worldwide have developed specialized capabilities for crypto-related crimes. Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre (EC3) established a cryptocurrency tracking team in 2016. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Justice formed a National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team in 2021. These specialized units increasingly collaborate across borders to investigate crimes targeting cryptocurrency executives and infrastructure. Technological Solutions and Security Best Practices Security professionals recommend specific measures for cryptocurrency executives following incidents like the Binance France CEO home invasion. Multi-factor authentication remains essential for all digital accounts. Physical security should include comprehensive residential assessments by professional firms. Moreover, operational security protocols must separate personal and professional digital footprints. Regular security awareness training helps executives recognize surveillance and targeting behaviors. Advanced technological solutions are gaining adoption. Hardware security modules provide tamper-resistant key storage for digital assets. Decentralized identity solutions allow authentication without centralized vulnerability points. Additionally, privacy-enhancing technologies can obscure transaction patterns that might reveal executive wealth or movements. These technical measures complement traditional executive protection approaches. Conclusion The Binance France CEO home invasion represents a critical moment for security consciousness in the cryptocurrency industry. While the swift arrest of suspects demonstrates effective law enforcement response, the incident highlights persistent vulnerabilities. As digital asset platforms continue evolving toward mainstream finance integration, executive protection must advance accordingly. The industry faces dual challenges: maintaining the innovative, accessible ethos that drives cryptocurrency adoption while implementing robust security for those building this financial future. This incident will likely accelerate security investments and protocol developments across major cryptocurrency exchanges globally. FAQs Q1: What exactly happened during the Binance France CEO home invasion? Armed individuals broke into the executive’s Paris residence while no one was home. They stole two mobile phones before fleeing. Police subsequently arrested the suspects at a train station. Q2: Has Binance France commented on the security incident? As of publication, Binance France has not released an official statement. The company typically follows law enforcement guidance regarding ongoing investigations before public commentary. Q3: How common are security incidents targeting cryptocurrency executives? While comprehensive statistics are limited, several high-profile incidents have occurred in recent years. These include phishing attempts, surveillance operations, and occasional physical threats against crypto industry leaders globally. Q4: What security measures do cryptocurrency exchanges typically implement for executives? Approaches vary significantly by company and jurisdiction. Common measures include residential security assessments, executive protection details during travel, cybersecurity training, and specialized digital asset protection protocols for personal holdings. Q5: Could this incident affect Binance’s operations in France? Unless investigations reveal broader security or compliance failures, the incident alone is unlikely to affect regulatory status. However, it may prompt internal security reviews and potentially influence how French authorities view executive protection standards for registered crypto firms. This post Binance France CEO Home Invasion: Shocking Armed Break-In Highlights Crypto Executive Security Crisis first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

13 Feb 2026, 13:30

Are quantum-proof Bitcoin wallets insurance or a fear tax?

Post-quantum Bitcoin wallets are already on sale, leaving investors to decide whether they’re buying insurance or paying up fear tax.

13 Feb 2026, 12:21

FAW Group banks on 620‑mile semi‑solid state battery to challenge EV market leaders

Chinese car manufacturer FAW Group has launched a semi-solid battery with an extended range for electric vehicles. The new battery cell has an energy density of over 500 Wh/kg and a total battery capacity of up to 142kWh, which will reportedly power EVs to cover up to 620 miles (1,000km), a significant improvement over the current 400-mile range. FAW Group is up against major global players from China, including BYD and CATL, that currently control the global EV market. According to Carbon Credits data , Chinese companies collectively control 69% of the global EV battery Market. CATL commands about 38% of the global market, with over 355.2 GWh of batteries installed, with a major grip of the local Chinese market. BYD, on the other hand, has spread its wings overseas, selling more than 130,000 vehicles outside China. FAW Group, with the new battery chemistry, seeks to challenge BYD and CATL, with the backing of Volkswagen Group for the global EV market. Chinese carmaker FAW rolls out its semi-solid state battery for EVs FAW Group announced on February 10 that it had successfully incorporated what it claims is the “industry’s first” lithium-rich manganese semi-solid-state EV battery into an electric vehicle. The battery was developed by FAW’s battery unit, China Automotive New Energy Battery Technology Co Ltd., in collaboration with a team of scholars led by Academician Chen Jun at Nankai University. The battery cell reportedly performs better than industry-standard lithium-ion batteries. The company says the battery cell will improve charging speeds and energy efficiency. Solid-state battery cells are often regarded as the next evolution of EV battery technology . The batteries have the potential to deliver twice the energy density of traditional liquid lithium-ion batteries. The news comes after SAIC Motors announced that it had also pioneered the “world’s first mass-produced semi-solid state” electric vehicle battery. The company officially launched the electric MG$ Anxin Edition Hatchback with the battery at a motor show in August last year. The battery reportedly has a range of 530km and supports 2C charging. In mid-January, Dongfeng Motors, another Chinese car manufacturer, announced it had begun testing a solid-state battery-powered prototype under extreme cold conditions. The automaker also claims its battery cell innovation can unlock more than 1,000 km (620 miles) of CLTC driving range. FAW’s battery is also using a manganese solution. Still, many Chinese brands are experimenting with NCM and NCA battery types that also have the potential to offer higher energy density, but use more Nickel. US and European manufacturers heighten efforts to develop high-density batteries Western car manufacturers have also joined the bandwagon and have been making significant strides in developing improved batteries. In the U.S., specialized American tech companies have partnered with car manufacturers to launch solid-state batteries this year. Factorial Energy partnered with Stellantis (the parent company of Jeep and Dodge) and Mercedes to accelerate innovation in solid-state battery development. QuantumScape, another U.S. player, is also working on developing a production facility in February designed to produce solid-state cells for Volkswagen Group. European companies are also in the race to develop their own solid-state batteries. Blue Solutions, a French battery manufacturing company, has produced solid-state batteries for buses for years and has announced it will begin focusing on passenger vehicles this year. Japanese multinational Panasonic Holdings Corporation announced it intends to develop a new high-capacity battery over the next two years. The company aims to accelerate innovation to eliminate anodes in batteries, boosting energy density and increasing battery capacity by 25%. The new battery will significantly increase the range of the Tesla Model Y vehicles. The news comes as global EV registrations declined in January amid policy changes in the U.S. and China. China has introduced a purchase tax and lower EV subsidies, while the U.S. has embarked on U.S. regulatory shifts in the sector. EV registrations dropped by 3%, settling at 1.2 million units for both EVs and hybrid vehicles. Don’t just read crypto news. Understand it. Subscribe to our newsletter. It's free .