Daily Digest: Crypto PACs, Global Tensions, iGaming Shocks

Welcome to Grapevines’ Daily Digest for February 11, 2026. We’re breaking down the biggest stories from the past 12 hours across crypto, politics, world news, and iGaming. Let’s dive into the headlines shaping today’s landscape.

Crypto Developments

• Crypto PAC Fairshake Targets Alabama Senate Race: Fairshake, a major crypto political action committee, has injected $5 million into Alabama’s midterm Senate race, marking its first foray into 2026 elections. This signals crypto’s growing influence in U.S. politics, aiming to back pro-digital asset candidates. (Crypto PAC in Alabama)
• Ray Dalio on CBDCs: Hedge fund titan Ray Dalio warns that central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) could grant governments unprecedented financial control over citizens, raising privacy concerns as adoption looms globally. (Dalio CBDC Warning)

Political Firestorms

• Venezuela Rejects New Election: Venezuela’s National Assembly chief has ruled out a new presidential election, deepening the political crisis as opposition and international pressure mount. (Venezuela Election News)
• House Dem Clashes with Trump Official: A House Democrat erupted at a top Trump immigration official, warning he’d “better hope” for a presidential pardon, escalating tensions over border policies. (House Dem Clash)

Global Hotspots

• Iran’s Ballistic Missile Threat: Israeli officials warn that Iran’s ballistic missile advancements could provoke unilateral military action, heightening Middle East tensions after indirect nuclear talks in Oman. (Iran-Israel Tensions)
• Kenya Questions Russia on Recruitment: Kenya demands clarity from Russia over reports of citizens being recruited to fight in Ukraine, spotlighting geopolitical exploitation concerns. (Kenya-Russia News)

Finland & Estonia Updates

• Netanyahu Meets Trump: Israeli PM Netanyahu met Trump to discuss Iran, signaling potential shifts in U.S.-Israel strategy amid regional unrest. (Netanyahu-Trump Meeting)
• Ukraine War Fuels Russian Instability: Estonian experts warn that the ongoing Ukraine conflict is increasing instability within Russia, with ripple effects across the Baltics. (Ukraine War Impact)

iGaming Scandals

• Nevada Super Bowl Betting Slumps: Nevada’s Super Bowl handle hit its lowest since 2016, though books still netted nearly $10M, reflecting shifting betting trends. (Nevada Betting News)
• Russian Coach Gambles Kids’ Funds: A Russian youth soccer coach allegedly spent children’s money in online casinos, exposing ethical rot in sports funding. (Russian Coach Scandal)

Key Takeaways

Today’s news pulse reveals a world grappling with influence and control—whether it’s crypto PACs shaping U.S. elections, governments tightening financial oversight via CBDCs, or geopolitical flashpoints like Iran and Ukraine threatening stability. Ethical breaches in iGaming underscore broader trust issues across industries. Expect these power struggles to dominate headlines as 2026 unfolds.