Crypto News Round-Up — February 2026

February has already seen a flurry of developments in crypto markets, from advanced security threats and evolving regulations to growing institutional interest. Major outlets report an AI-powered deepfake scam targeting crypto executives, while regulators worldwide move to tighten oversight. Here are this week’s top stories shaping the cryptocurrency landscape.

• North Korean Hackers Deploy AI Deepfakes in Crypto Scam
• Regulators Intensify Crypto Oversight
• Exchanges and Market Infrastructure Evolve
• Crypto ETFs and Institutional Flows Expand
• Retail Crypto Adoption Gains Momentum
• Blockchain in Cross-Border Payments

North Korean Hackers Deploy AI Deepfakes in Crypto Scam

Google Cloud’s security team reported that hackers linked to North Korea used AI-powered social engineering against cryptocurrency firms. A compromised account sent a spoofed Zoom calendar invite that opened a fake meeting. During the call, targets saw an AI-generated deepfake of a CEO claiming they needed a software “fix.” In reality, running the fix downloaded malware that gave the hackers control of the victims’ computers (TechRadar) (www.pcgamer.com) (www.pcgamer.com). Mandiant confirmed the sophisticated campaign involved seven different malware strains designed to steal credentials and cryptocurrency (TechRadar).

Why it matters:

• Demonstrates how attackers can use AI deepfakes to bypass traditional security checks.
• Highlights ongoing risks of state-sponsored hacks targeting crypto funds and data.
• Emphasizes the need for multi-factor authentication and cautious verification even with trusted contacts.

Regulators Intensify Crypto Oversight

Regulators across the globe are stepping up cryptocurrency rules. Bloomberg reports U.S. agencies like the SEC and CFTC are increasing scrutiny of exchanges, stablecoin issuers and fraud (Bloomberg). In Asia and Europe, authorities are implementing new frameworks: for example, Hong Kong recently began enforcing Basel capital standards on crypto assets, and the EU is finalizing its Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) law for stablecoins (Bloomberg). U.S. legislators are also working on a bipartisan stablecoin bill. These moves reflect growing government concern over risks in the crypto sector.

Why it matters:

• Greater oversight could improve market stability and protect retail investors from fraud.
• Exchanges and issuers may face higher compliance costs and stricter operational rules.
• Global coordination hints at crypto becoming a more regulated industry, which may encourage institutional participation.

Exchanges and Market Infrastructure Evolve

Cryptocurrency exchanges and financial infrastructure are expanding rapidly. For instance, Coinbase reportedly secured a license to operate in Costa Rica, opening a market that was previously wary of crypto. Traditional finance is also embracing digital assets: Visa announced pilots to settle transactions in stablecoins, and CME Group recorded all-time trading volumes in Bitcoin and Ether derivatives (Reuters). In parallel, central banks are pushing digital currencies; the ECB’s digital euro prototype is now in testing phases (Reuters). These developments underscore that crypto technologies are being integrated into broader financial systems.

Why it matters:

• New licenses and partnerships make it easier for users worldwide to access crypto markets legally.
• Big finance firms adopting blockchain technology lend credibility and could improve market liquidity.
• Advancement of CBDCs suggests central banks see value in digital money, potentially bridging fiat and crypto systems.

Crypto ETFs and Institutional Flows Expand

Interest from big investors in crypto is on the rise. CoinDesk notes that managers like BlackRock and Fidelity have filed for new crypto ETFs – including funds tracking ether – following last year’s successful launch of spot Bitcoin ETFs . Those Bitcoin ETFs have already attracted tens of billions in institutional capital. At the same time, stablecoins backed by major currencies are growing; several new stablecoin projects recently launched with hundreds of millions in deposits, aiming to fuel DeFi and institutional trading. This shows traditional finance continues to warm up to crypto.

Why it matters:

• Crypto ETFs provide an easier entry for conservative investors and can bring large inflows into the market.
• Institutional interest helps deepen liquidity and could reduce volatility over time.
• Expansion of stablecoins and regulated products indicates crypto is becoming a more mature asset class.

Retail Crypto Adoption Gains Momentum

Cryptocurrency is inching closer to everyday use. Major retailers and payment platforms are beginning to accept crypto payments: a leading e-commerce site announced it now supports digital-asset checkout (Cointelegraph). Social media and content platforms have also enabled crypto tipping and NFT features again. According to Cointelegraph, surveys show increasing consumer willingness to use crypto for purchases. These trends suggest digital assets are reaching more mainstream audiences.

Why it matters:

• Increased payment options boost the real-world utility of crypto tokens.
• Higher adoption by consumers can drive demand, but users must still be aware of price swings.
• Mainstream acceptance initiatives help normalize cryptocurrency in daily transactions.

Blockchain in Cross-Border Payments

Blockchain networks are gaining traction for international payments. Reuters reports that a new consortium of banks has begun live trials of a blockchain-based settlement system for cross-border trade finance, aiming to cut transaction times from days to minutes. Tech companies are also integrating crypto rails into remittance services in developing markets. These pilots demonstrate blockchain’s potential to streamline global finance beyond speculative trading.

Why it matters:

• Faster, cheaper cross-border transactions could reduce dependence on legacy banking networks.
• Bridging traditional banks and blockchain systems may unlock efficiencies in global trade.
• Successful implementation could accelerate broader adoption of distributed ledger technology in finance.

Cryptocurrency markets remain volatile. The above developments present both opportunities and risks, and none of this should be taken as financial advice. Always do your own research (DYOR) and consider consulting a professional before making any investment decisions. Stay informed and cautious when engaging with digital assets.

Bottom Line

The key theme this week is that crypto is becoming more intertwined with mainstream finance even as it faces security and regulatory challenges. Institutional and corporate adoption continues to grow – from new ETFs to blockchain payment trials – suggesting long-term maturation. At the same time, sophisticated hacks and new rules remind us of the risks in this emerging market. Investors and users should stay alert: keep up with the news, understand the volatility, and proceed with caution.