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17 Feb 2026, 15:00

Bank of Russia to study the economic implications of AI

Russia’s monetary authority intends to examine the effects of artificial intelligence (AI), including its influence on the behavior of participants in the financial market. The regulator will focus its research on this area to address challenges facing the Russian economy that stem from the implementation of the new technology. Bank of Russia to study the economic implications of AI The Central Bank of Russia (CBR) is concentrating on exploring artificial intelligence and its consequences for different sectors. AI research has been listed among the main directions for its economic studies in the period 2026 – 2028, the financial regulator announced. Quoted by the official news agency TASS, the authority explained: “Areas of research respond to new challenges the Russian economy faces. One of the most pressing issues the researchers encounter is how artificial intelligence influences the economy and competition and making financial decisions.” The studies will focus on the results of the broad application of AI for the economy and its structure, innovations, and productivity. Effects on the labor market in general, as well as on income inequality among Russian households, will be examined as well. The central bank acknowledged that AI development is changing financial markets, too. Artificial intelligence transforms the logic behind decisions made by various entities, the CBR said, adding: “This generates new macroeconomic effects, including potential risks for financial stability.” Russia to seek balance in AI implementation According to the monetary policy regulator, the Russian Federation must strike a balance between government interference and market self-regulation in regards to AI use. “Key areas of studies include the analysis of how AI transforms regulatory capabilities and constraints in different markets and for different kinds of services,” the CBR further detailed. The Bank of Russia’s statements follow recent comments by Vladimir Putin on the same topic. In December, the Russian president described AI as a “double-edged sword.” While acknowledging the potential of artificial intelligence, which his nation wants to exploit, he warned about the perils as well. Speaking about regulations in the field of AI, big data, and other related spheres, Putin remarked: “It is becoming evident even for those who are far from these problems that something should be done, but no one knows exactly what to do.” “Because not using these instruments would mean losing everything we care about. But at the same time, if we use it thoughtlessly, it will also end up in the loss of everything we value,” he elaborated. In November, the head of state urged his nation to rally behind domestic development of artificial intelligence, which, he is convinced, will ensure its technological sovereignty. While taking part in the AI Journey international conference in Moscow, he also unveiled that Russia is setting up a national task force to work on achieving that goal. Russia’s first functioning robot powered by AI was demonstrated during that forum. The humanoid called Grin has been created by a team of engineers working for Sberbank, Russia’s largest lender. In January of this year, the master of the Kremlin also emphasized the importance of autonomous transportation. Russia should rapidly introduce such systems, he insisted, admitting the country is lagging behind leaders in this market , such as the United States and China. Moscow has been trying to join forces with allies in the development of artificial intelligence. In late 2025, Russia signed an agreement for AI cooperation with Iran and while on a visit to New Delhi, Putin offered India a “broad partnership” in the same field. However, the nation still lacks all the necessary computing power. According to an estimate released by its second-largest bank, VTB, it will need to invest about $77 billion in new generation capacities to satisfy the growing energy needs of its data centers. The electricity consumption of facilities engaged in AI applications and cryptocurrency mining has been projected to reach 2% of the country’s total by the end of the decade. Get seen where it counts. Advertise in Cryptopolitan Research and reach crypto’s sharpest investors and builders.

17 Feb 2026, 13:31

Egrag Crypto Presents XRP’s “Visual Behavior”. Here’s the Significance

Crypto analyst Egrag Crypto has shared a new technical chart examining XRP’s long-term price behavior, focusing on its “visual behavior” across multiple market cycles. The analysis focuses on recurring structural movements visible on the weekly timeframe and emphasizes how price compression within converging trendlines may define the next phase of market direction. In the chart attached to the post , XRP’s historical price action is shown respecting a long-term ascending support line that has been tested repeatedly since the earlier stages of the market cycle. Several arrows on the chart highlight moments when the price retraced to this trendline before moving upward again. According to the analyst’s visual framework, these repeated interactions illustrate a pattern of accumulation and confirmation of structural support over time. The chart also shows a large symmetrical triangle formation developing as descending resistance converges with the rising support line. XRP’s recent price movement appears positioned near the narrowing end of this structure, suggesting that the market is approaching a decision point. The analysis presents this compression as a technical condition worth monitoring rather than a prediction of direction. #XRP – Visual Behavior: pic.twitter.com/Jwk1ajNO1I — EGRAG CRYPTO (@egragcrypto) February 16, 2026 Fibonacci Levels and Structural Zones Egrag Crypto’s chart includes Fibonacci retracement and extension levels that identify possible support and resistance zones within the current formation. Among the levels displayed are the 0.702 retracement around the mid-range of the consolidation, the 0.5 retracement slightly below it, and the lower boundary near the 0 level positioned just under the triangle’s support region. On the upside, the chart marks the 1.0 Fibonacci extension level above the consolidation range, along with a higher extension level near 1.618. These levels are presented as reference points derived from prior market structure rather than immediate price targets. The analyst’s visual framework suggests that liquidity and market participation will ultimately determine how the price interacts with these zones. Community Responses Focused on Momentum and Support Responses to the post reflect varying interpretations of XRP’s recent price movement. One commenter noted that market patterns establish conditions while liquidity determines outcomes, reinforcing the idea that structure alone does not guarantee direction. We are on X, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1 — TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) June 15, 2025 Another response suggested a move toward higher price levels, while a separate comment pointed to recent short-term gains and questioned whether the $1.50 level could now function as support. These reactions remain centered on near-term confirmation of structure rather than disagreement with the chart’s long-term framework. The discussion surrounding the post largely reflects traders evaluating whether the consolidation visible on the weekly chart will resolve upward or downward. Egrag Crypto’s analysis presents XRP’s price action as part of a repeating structural behavior observable across multiple years. By focusing on trendline support, compression within converging boundaries, and Fibonacci reference levels, the chart captures the current market phase as one defined by positioning rather than resolution. Disclaimer : This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are advised to conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses. Follow us on X , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post Egrag Crypto Presents XRP’s “Visual Behavior”. Here’s the Significance appeared first on Times Tabloid .

17 Feb 2026, 11:41

American messenger imo nears 10 million as Russian users find non-state alternatives

The U.S.-made messenger imo has been gaining popularity among Russians amid an ongoing crackdown on WhatsApp and Telegram in their country. Russian users of the American app have spiked in number over the past year, while their government is pushing a state-backed alternative called Max. The news came ahead of fresh reports that the “slowed down” Telegram may be fully blocked in April, while the fate of WhatsApp remains uncertain. Imo users in Russia approach 10 million A less conspicuous messenger, with no less complicated history in Russia, is expanding its Russian user base, while the services of established platforms are being restricted. Imo has seen a multi-fold increase in downloads, local media revealed in reports exploring its sudden rise and key features that probably underpin its growing popularity. According to data recently provided by the research company Mediascope, the application’s Russian audience swelled from a little over 417,000 to more than 9.8 million in the year until December 2025. The spike comes amid developments that are causing significant shifts in the country’s market for messaging services, as noted in several articles this month. Earlier in February, Russia’s telecom watchdog completely cut off access to WhatsApp by removing the messenger’s domain from its DNS servers. It also started slowing down Telegram. Both, which have tens of millions of users in the Russian Federation, have been accused of failing to comply with Russian law and take down banned content. Roskomnadzor (RNK), the government agency which also acts as a media censor, limited voice calls through them in August, alleging they were being used by fraudsters and extremists. A string of other messaging platforms, such as Viber, Signal and Discord, had already been blocked earlier, mostly in the second half of 2024. The measures were taken against the backdrop of the development and launch of the government-approved Max , which officials in Moscow like to call the “national” messenger. Critics warn the latter can be used for state surveillance and censorship. It is based on a platform created by the Russian social media network VK, formerly known as Vkontakte. What makes imo attractive for Russians? The American imo is now the fifth most popular messenger in Russia, taking the spot previously occupied by Viber, which is owned by the Japanese tech conglomerate Rakuten. The RKN blocked Viber in mid-December 2024, citing non-compliance with regulations meant to prevent its use for terrorist activities and recruitment, drug sales and the spread of illegal information. Developed by the California-based company PageBites, imo was initially launched two decades ago as an aggregator for other messengers such as Skype, Yahoo Messenger, ICQ, and Google Talk. It eventually evolved into a full-fledged, standalone messaging service, now operating in more than 170 countries and supporting communication in over 60 languages. Besides instant messaging, it supports audio and video calls with sufficient quality, Pronedra.ru reported this week, referring to tests conducted by the tech news outlet CNews and Rambler. It’s loaded with privacy features, including an option to delete messages for both parties. Screenshots and texts forwarding can be disabled, and secret chats have end-to-end encryption. Furthermore, it copes well with slow internet and works with 3G and 2G networks, such as in regions with older infrastructure. Experts say it’s more efficient with mobile data usage during calls. Roskomnadzor blocked it in 2017 for failing to register with the regulator’s database of information disseminating entities, but lifted the restrictions once imo complied. In May of last year, PageBites was fined 800,000 rubles (approx. $10,000) for other violations, but imo wasn’t blocked again. RKN leaves Russian citizens with few messaging options Imo is yet to catch up with competitors in the Russian market, where, according to the local edition of Forbes, Meta’s WhatsApp has 94.5 million monthly users, Telegram is a close second, with 93.6 million, followed by Max with 70 million. But it may soon get there, as new reports indicate that Moscow’s pressure on the leaders is going to increase in the coming weeks. Quoting “sources in several agencies” in a post on Tuesday, the Telegram channel Baza claimed that Roskomnadzor will begin fully blocking tech entrepreneur Pavel Durov’s messenger on April 1, as it did with Meta’s Facebook and Instagram. Asked to comment on that, the RKN told RBC it had “nothing to add” to its previous statements on the matter, which mentioned introducing “sequential restrictions.” In an earlier report, the business news portal explored alternatives still available to Russians, including VK’s proprietary messenger (separate from Max), which currently has 15.7 million users. Durov, who now holds dual French-Emirati citizenship, left his native Russia and his executive post at VK, which he also founded, more than a decade ago, after refusing to censor protestors and alleging the company had been taken over by allies of President Putin’s administration. Want your project in front of crypto’s top minds? Feature it in our next industry report, where data meets impact.

17 Feb 2026, 11:10

German ZEW Survey Reveals Shocking Drop in Economic Sentiment to 58.3

BitcoinWorld German ZEW Survey Reveals Shocking Drop in Economic Sentiment to 58.3 Germany’s economic outlook faces unexpected turbulence as the latest ZEW Economic Sentiment Indicator plunges to 58.3, defying analyst predictions and raising questions about Europe’s largest economy. This surprising development, reported from Mannheim on November 12, 2024, marks a significant departure from previous optimistic forecasts and warrants careful examination by policymakers and investors alike. Understanding the German ZEW Economic Sentiment Drop The ZEW Economic Sentiment Indicator, compiled by the Centre for European Economic Research, serves as a crucial barometer for Germany’s economic health. This monthly survey gathers insights from approximately 350 financial analysts and institutional investors. Consequently, it provides forward-looking assessments of Germany’s economic trajectory. The current reading of 58.3 represents a substantial decline from previous months, signaling potential concerns among financial experts. Historically, the ZEW indicator has demonstrated strong predictive power for Germany’s economic performance. For instance, readings above zero indicate optimism, while values below zero reflect pessimism. Therefore, the current positive reading still suggests overall optimism, but the magnitude of the drop raises important questions. Moreover, this decline follows several months of relatively stable sentiment readings around the 65-70 range. Comparative Analysis of Recent ZEW Survey Results To understand the significance of the current reading, we must examine recent survey trends. The table below illustrates the ZEW Economic Sentiment Indicator’s performance over the past six months: Month ZEW Economic Sentiment Change from Previous Month June 2024 69.8 +2.1 July 2024 71.2 +1.4 August 2024 68.5 -2.7 September 2024 66.3 -2.2 October 2024 63.7 -2.6 November 2024 58.3 -5.4 This data reveals several important patterns. First, the November decline represents the largest monthly drop in over a year. Second, the consistent downward trend since July suggests accumulating concerns among financial experts. Finally, the current reading represents the lowest level since early 2023, potentially indicating a shift in economic expectations. Expert Perspectives on the Sentiment Shift Economic analysts point to several factors potentially driving this sentiment decline. According to Dr. Michael Schröder, Senior Researcher at ZEW, “The unexpected drop likely reflects growing concerns about multiple economic challenges.” These challenges include: Global trade tensions: Recent developments in international trade relations Energy price volatility: Fluctuations in European energy markets Monetary policy uncertainty: Evolving European Central Bank strategies Manufacturing sector pressures: Ongoing challenges in Germany’s industrial base Furthermore, Professor Anna Bauer from the University of Mannheim notes, “The ZEW survey often serves as an early warning system. While the current reading remains positive, the sharp decline warrants attention from both policymakers and market participants.” This perspective aligns with historical patterns where ZEW sentiment changes have preceded broader economic shifts. Broader Economic Context and Implications The German economy represents approximately 25% of the Eurozone’s total economic output. Therefore, changes in German economic sentiment carry significant implications for the entire European Union. The current ZEW reading suggests several potential developments: First, investment decisions may become more cautious. Financial institutions typically use ZEW data when formulating investment strategies. Consequently, the declining sentiment could influence capital allocation across European markets. Second, consumer confidence often follows professional sentiment indicators. Thus, we might observe ripple effects in domestic consumption patterns in coming months. Additionally, the ZEW Current Conditions Index provides complementary information. This component measures analysts’ assessment of the current economic situation. Recent data shows a more modest decline, suggesting that while future expectations have weakened, current conditions remain relatively stable. This divergence between current conditions and future expectations represents a notable feature of the latest survey results. Historical Patterns and Predictive Value Historical analysis reveals important context for interpreting the current ZEW reading. The indicator has demonstrated strong correlation with subsequent economic performance. For example, significant declines in ZEW sentiment during 2018 preceded the 2019 economic slowdown. Similarly, the indicator provided early signals before the 2020 pandemic-related downturn. However, the ZEW survey also has limitations. As a sentiment-based indicator, it reflects expectations rather than hard economic data. Therefore, policymakers typically consider it alongside other indicators like industrial production, retail sales, and employment figures. This comprehensive approach provides a more complete picture of economic conditions. Sector-Specific Impacts and Regional Variations The ZEW survey includes sector-specific assessments that reveal important nuances. Recent data indicates varying sentiment across different economic sectors: Manufacturing: Shows the most significant decline in optimism Services: Demonstrates relative stability with minor adjustments Construction: Maintains moderate optimism despite broader trends Financial services: Exhibits cautious but stable outlook Regional analysis within Germany also reveals interesting patterns. Southern German states, with their strong industrial bases, show greater sensitivity to the sentiment decline. Meanwhile, northern regions with more diversified economies demonstrate relative resilience. These regional variations highlight the complex nature of Germany’s economic landscape. International Comparisons and Global Context Comparing Germany’s ZEW results with similar indicators in other countries provides valuable perspective. The Ifo Business Climate Index, another important German economic indicator, will provide complementary data later this month. Additionally, sentiment indicators from France, Italy, and other European nations will help contextualize whether this represents a Germany-specific development or broader European trend. Global economic conditions also influence German sentiment. Recent developments in international markets, particularly in Asia and North America, likely contributed to the survey results. Trade patterns, currency fluctuations, and geopolitical developments all play roles in shaping economic expectations among German financial experts. Methodological Considerations and Survey Reliability The ZEW survey employs rigorous methodology to ensure data quality and reliability. The research center conducts the survey during the first two weeks of each month, ensuring timely data collection. Participants include financial analysts from banks, insurance companies, and large industrial enterprises. This diverse participant base helps ensure representative results. Survey questions focus on six-month economic expectations, allowing for forward-looking analysis. The calculation methodology transforms responses into an index where the balance of optimistic and pessimistic views determines the final reading. This approach has proven reliable over the survey’s 30-year history, though like all economic indicators, it should be interpreted with appropriate caution. Conclusion The unexpected decline in the German ZEW Economic Sentiment Indicator to 58.3 represents a significant development for Europe’s largest economy. While the reading remains in positive territory, the magnitude of the drop and the consistent downward trend warrant careful monitoring. This development highlights the complex interplay of global economic forces affecting German economic expectations. Consequently, policymakers, investors, and economic observers should consider this data alongside other indicators when assessing Germany’s economic trajectory. The coming months will reveal whether this represents a temporary adjustment or the beginning of a more substantial shift in economic sentiment. FAQs Q1: What does the ZEW Economic Sentiment Indicator measure? The ZEW Economic Sentiment Indicator measures financial analysts’ expectations for Germany’s economic development over the next six months, based on monthly surveys of approximately 350 experts. Q2: Why is the drop to 58.3 considered significant? The drop to 58.3 represents the largest monthly decline in over a year and continues a consistent downward trend since July, suggesting accumulating concerns among financial experts about Germany’s economic outlook. Q3: How does the ZEW indicator differ from other economic measures? Unlike hard economic data like GDP or employment figures, the ZEW indicator measures sentiment and expectations rather than actual economic performance, serving as a forward-looking rather than retrospective measure. Q4: What factors might be influencing the current sentiment decline? Potential factors include global trade tensions, energy price volatility, monetary policy uncertainty, manufacturing sector challenges, and broader international economic developments affecting German export prospects. Q5: How reliable is the ZEW survey as an economic indicator? The ZEW survey has demonstrated strong predictive value over its 30-year history and is widely respected among economists, though like all indicators it should be considered alongside other economic data for comprehensive analysis. This post German ZEW Survey Reveals Shocking Drop in Economic Sentiment to 58.3 first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

17 Feb 2026, 09:55

Financial Advisors Constantly Asked by Clients About XRP: Grayscale Exec

Interest in XRP is extending well beyond retail investors, as a senior executive at Grayscale Investments says financial advisors are frequently fielding client questions about the asset. Rayhaneh Sharif-Askary, Head of Product and Research at Grayscale, shared this information during XRP Community Day. Visit Website

17 Feb 2026, 09:02

XRP Ledger 2013 Data Tied to Elon Musk Involvement

Crypto analyst Steph Is Crypto has published a tweet asserting that early XRP Ledger data reveals a substantial transfer of XRP in 2013 to an account labeled “Musk.” In the post, he wrote, “BREAKING: Early XRP Ledger data shows a massive XRP transfer to an account labeled Musk, pointing to early involvement tied to Elon Musk back in 2013.” The claim was accompanied by screenshots from an XRP Ledger explorer interface displaying transaction records dated November and December 2013. The images show multiple payment entries, including several outgoing transfers of 5,000,000 XRP each to accounts labeled “~musk,” “~asimov,” “~andreessen,” and “~thiel.” Another entry indicates an activation transaction involving approximately 16,783,000 XRP connected to the “~musk” account. The screenshots appear to be sourced from XRPSCAN, a blockchain explorer for the XRP Ledger . The transaction history displayed in the image includes timestamps, transaction hashes, wallet addresses, and amounts denominated in XRP . The most prominent detail highlighted by Steph Is Crypto is the 5,000,000 XRP payment directed to the account labeled “~musk” on November 30, 2013. BREAKING: Early $XRP Ledger data shows a massive XRP transfer to an account labeled Musk, pointing to early involvement tied to Elon Musk back in 2013. pic.twitter.com/QE1nNdxKPg — STEPH IS CRYPTO (@Steph_iscrypto) February 15, 2026 Details Shown in the Attached Ledger Screenshots The ledger data visible in the images reflects activity from late 2013, shortly after the XRP Ledger was launched. Several large transfers of 5,000,000 XRP are shown as outgoing transactions from the same source account to different destinations. The account “~musk” appears alongside other labels referencing surnames associated with prominent figures. One transaction entry dated November 25, 2013, indicates an “ACTIVATED” status involving over 16 million XRP linked to the “~musk” label. Subsequent entries show outgoing transfers of 5,000,000 XRP to that same labeled account. Additional smaller inbound payments of 60.999000 XRP and 1.700000 XRP appear in December 2013. Steph Is Crypto’s tweet suggests that these data point to early involvement connected to Elon Musk. However, the screenshots only display a label and do not provide direct verification of the identity behind the account. We are on X, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1 — TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) June 15, 2025 Mixed Reactions in the Comment Section The tweet generated contrasting responses from users. One commenter, identified as LadyP, questioned the assumption behind the claim, writing, “Well, we hope it was Elon and not like, someone called Bob Musk.” The remark reflects skepticism regarding whether the account label definitively corresponds to Elon Musk. Another user, SEAblitz, challenged the authenticity of the screenshots, stating, “The Photoshop on this is the worst I’ve seen on here. Just ask Grok to do it next time.” This comment raises doubts about whether the images accurately represent genuine XRP Ledger data. Steph Is Crypto’s post frames the discovery as significant historical evidence. At the time of writing, no independent confirmation has been presented establishing that the “~musk” account is directly linked to Elon Musk . The tweet relies on publicly visible ledger labels and transaction records from 2013 to support its claim of early involvement. Disclaimer : This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are advised to conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses. Follow us on X , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post XRP Ledger 2013 Data Tied to Elon Musk Involvement appeared first on Times Tabloid .