Coinbase plans to migrate Base onto a unified, internally managed software stack that replaces its prior dependence on Optimism's core technology and external tooling. The move will let Base package its own client binary, target up to six hard forks per year, and introduce Base-specific governance, security council signers, and fee systems. As Base gains more control over upgrades and infrastructure, Optimism faces reduced influence over one of its largest Layer 2 ecosystem partners.

On February 18, 2026, The Hyper Foundation said it will fund the Hyperliquid Policy Center in Washington, D.C. with 1 million HYPE tokens, valued at about $29 million, with the tokens to be unstaked later today. Jake Chervinsky will serve as founding CEO, and the nonprofit will advocate for clear rules for perpetual derivatives and on-chain market infrastructure in the U.S.

Modern Treasury, a U.S.-based payments operations software provider, has introduced an integrated PSP service that supports stablecoin settlement alongside ACH transfers, wire payments and real-time payment networks. The platform currently works with Global Dollar (USDG), Pax Dollar (USDP) and USDC, with plans to add USDt later, and incorporates these assets into a single compliance framework so clients can process fiat and crypto payments through the same infrastructure.

On Wednesday, Hyperliquid Foundation said it would help establish the Hyperliquid Policy Center with a donation of 1 million HYPE tokens valued at about $29 million. The independent research and advocacy group, led by Variant Fund advisor Jake Chervinsky, aims to promote clear U.S. regulations so that DeFi can develop and have representation in Washington, D.C.

The Global Blockchain Show will return to Riyadh on 29–30 June 2026, aiming to draw over 10,000 delegates along with more than 250 speakers, 200 exhibitors, and 300 media representatives. Organized by VAP Group with the Times of Blockchain, the event will host keynotes, panels, and workshops on blockchain, Web3, and emerging technologies while featuring global industry leaders and innovators.

The European Central Bank plans to begin selecting EU-licensed payment service providers in the first quarter of 2026 for a limited digital euro pilot. Executive Board member Piero Cipollone said the 12-month test is slated for the second half of 2027 and will include a small group of PSPs, merchants, and Eurosystem staff.

The European Blockchain Regulatory Sandbox in the EU brings blockchain projects and nearly 125 regulators into confidential conversations to resolve legal questions under frameworks such as MiCA and the GDPR. After three cohorts, a 230-page best practices report highlights how early rulemaking, combined with structured dialogue, can clarify compliance for smart contracts and decentralization rather than stifle innovation.

In January 2026, the XRP Ledger executed an amendment intended to strengthen on‑chain lending. On Feb. 18, 2026, Ripple developer Mayukha Vadari said the newly launched XRPL Sandbox lacks tools to test protocol amendments and does not surface full transaction responses. He was responding to Anodos Finance CTO Kostas' announcement that positioned the environment as plug‑and‑play for "upcoming amendments."