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USA & Canada Intelligence Brief for Thursday, February 19, 2026
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February 19, 2026
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15 min read
What Matters Today
Read about USA & Canada Intelligence Brief for Thursday, February 19, 2026 on The Rio Times.
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Covering Feb 19
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What matters today
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1 Trump gives Iran 10-day ultimatum: military ready to strike from Saturday — At Board of Peace inaugural meeting: “You are going to be finding out over the next probably 10 days”; CBS: Pentagon briefed Trump military ready for strikes as early as Feb 21; Axios: Trump adviser says “90% chance of kinetic action in next few weeks”; weeks-long joint US-Israel campaign planned; USS Ford arriving eastern Med imminently; Pentagon withdrawing some personnel from region ahead of potential action; WTI surges to $66.50 (+2%), Brent >$71; gold reclaims $5,000
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2 Board of Peace inaugural meeting: $17B pledged, Gaza stabilization force forming — Trump convened 40+ countries at US Institute of Peace; US commits $10B; other members pledge $7B; Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Albania committing troops (target: 20K soldiers + 12K police); FIFA pledges $75M; Marc Rowan (Apollo): 100K homes, $30B infrastructure; key allies (UK, Germany, France) absent; Trump used event to issue Iran 10-day ultimatum
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3 Epstein fallout deepens: Wexner deposed, Prince Andrew arrested in UK — Les Wexner deposed by House Oversight Feb 18, said he was “duped by a world-class con man”; VP Vance open to Prince Andrew congressional testimony; Andrew arrested in UK today (misconduct in public office); DOJ January file release triggering global consequences; EPAM −21% on cautious guidance; Deere +13% on Q1 beat
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4 Walmart beats Q4 but FY27 guidance disappoints; markets sell off on Iran fears — EPS $0.74 (beat $0.73); revenue $190.7B; FY27 guide $2.75–$2.85 vs $2.97 expected; Deere +13% on beat and raised guidance; S&P 500 −0.6%, Dow −0.9% on Iran + Walmart + oil spike; jobless claims 206K (beat 223K); trade deficit surged to $70.3B
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01
\nMarket Snapshot
\nIntraday Feb 19
\nMarket Snapshot
\nIntraday Feb 19
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| INDEX / PAIR | LEVEL | DAY CHG | SIGNAL |
|---|---|---|---|
| S&P 500 | 6,838 | −0.6% | ▼ Iran strike fears + WMT guidance; below 50-day MA |
| Dow Jones | 49,226 | −0.9% | ▼ Nike −1.5%, GS −1.4%; WMT −0.5%, DE +6% |
| Nasdaq | 22,605 | −0.7% | ▼ EPAM −21% on cautious outlook; DE +13% on beat |
| Russell 2000 | 2,645 | −0.5% | ▼ Small caps fading; VIX +5.6% to 20.7 |
| S&P/TSX | 33,200 | −0.6% | ▼ Pulls back from Wed record 33,390; energy offsets |
| USD/CAD | 1.370 | +0.2% | ▲ CAD weakens; tariff overhang persists |
| DXY (Dollar) | 97.63 | +0.6% | ▲ Safe-haven bid; hawkish Fed + geopolitical risk |
| 10yr UST | 4.08% | −0bp | ▶ Flat; oil-driven inflation vs safe-haven buying |
| WTI Crude | $66.50 | +2.0% | ▲ 2026 high; Iran strike fears; Brent >$71 |
| Gold | $5,002 | flat | ▶ Reclaims $5K on geopolitical hedge; dollar caps |
| Bitcoin | $66,624 | −0.3% | ▼ Risk-off; MSTR, MARA under pressure |
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02
\nConflict & Stability Tracker
\nConflict & Stability Tracker
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\nCritical
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\nCritical
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US-Iran Military Standoff: Largest Middle East Buildup Since June 2025
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Pentagon deploying dual carrier strike groups, submarines, air defences. USS Gerald R. Ford en route (off Morocco, expected Israel vicinity by weekend); USS Abraham Lincoln on station. Iran IRGC conducted live-fire drills in Strait of Hormuz (Feb 16–17), temporarily closing the waterway — 20% of global oil transits. Iran-Russia-China “Maritime Security Belt 2026” joint naval exercise launched Feb 19 in Gulf of Oman. Geneva talks produced “guiding principles” but Khamenei rejects US demand to forgo enrichment. Rubio to Israel Feb 28. WTI at 2026 high; Brent above $71.
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\nCritical
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Trump’s 10-Day Iran Ultimatum: Military Ready to Strike from Saturday
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At the Board of Peace inaugural meeting, Trump said the world will “find out in the next probably 10 days” whether there will be a deal or military action. CBS News: Pentagon briefed Trump the military is ready for strikes as early as Saturday Feb 21. Axios: Trump adviser puts “90% chance of kinetic action in next few weeks.” A weeks-long joint US-Israel campaign is planned. USS Gerald R. Ford arriving eastern Med imminently; USS Abraham Lincoln on station; 50 F-35/F-22/F-16 jets deployed Feb 17–18. Pentagon withdrawing some personnel from the region as precaution. Iran-Russia-China “Maritime Security Belt 2026” launched today. WTI at 2026 high $66.50; Brent above $71.
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\nTense
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\nTense
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Board of Peace Inaugural Meeting: $17B Pledged for Gaza Reconstruction
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Trump convened 40+ country representatives in Washington. US commits $10B; other members pledge $7B. Five countries (Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Albania) committing troops to International Stabilization Force (target force: 20,000 soldiers + 12,000 police). FIFA pledges $75M for soccer facilities. Marc Rowan (Apollo): 100,000 homes for 500,000 residents; $30B infrastructure over time. Key allies (UK, Germany, France) absent. No Palestinian representation. Trump used event to issue Iran 10-day ultimatum.
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\nTense
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\nTense
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Epstein Files Fallout Intensifies: Les Wexner Deposed, Congressional Probes Expand
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House Oversight deposed Les Wexner on Feb 18 over Epstein ties. VP Vance said he’d be “open” to former Prince Andrew testifying before Congress. Andrew arrested in UK today over misconduct linked to Epstein files — most high-profile criminal consequence of DOJ’s January document release. Epstein files have triggered resignations and departures across business and European politics. Measles: 800+ cases across 23 states linked to vaccine disinformation.
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\nTense
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\nTense
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US-Canada Trade War: 35% Tariffs, Diversification Accelerates
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US tariffs at 35% on Canadian goods. House voted 219–211 (Feb 11) to end tariffs; 6 GOP defections; Senate vote pending, Trump veto certain. Trump threatened 100% if Canada “makes deal with China.” Carney building EU–CPTPP bridge; Gordie Howe Bridge standoff; CUSMA review in 2026. GM citing $3–4B tariff cost. Canadian GDP reduced 1.5–2%.
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\nWatching
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\nWatching
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Ukraine-Russia Geneva Talks: Cautious Progress, Parallel Diplomatic Bandwidth Strain
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Two-day US-mediated trilateral talks concluded. Moscow: “difficult but business-like”; Kyiv: “substantive with progress.” Next round in Switzerland. Ukraine and Iran crises consuming parallel White House diplomatic bandwidth. EU approved €90B Ukraine loan for 2026–27.
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03
\nFast Take
\nFast Take
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IRANTrump gives Iran 10 days: military ready to strike from Saturday — Board of Peace speech: “You are going to be finding out over the next probably 10 days”; CBS: Pentagon briefed military readiness for strikes as early as Feb 21; Axios adviser: “90% chance of kinetic action in next few weeks”; weeks-long joint US-Israel campaign planned; 50 jets deployed; USS Ford arriving; Pentagon withdrawing some personnel; Leavitt: “many reasons for a strike”; Iran: “no country can deprive us of enrichment”
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MILITARYLargest US Middle East buildup since Iraq War: dual carriers, 50 jets, nuclear hardening — USS Ford CSG arriving eastern Med; USS Lincoln on station; 50 F-35/F-22/F-16 jets deployed Feb 17–18; F-15Es to Jordan; Pentagon withdrawing some personnel ahead of potential action; Iran IRGC closed Hormuz for live-fire drills Feb 16–17; Russia-China-Iran “Maritime Security Belt 2026” launched Feb 19; satellite imagery: Taleghan 2 wrapped in concrete; Chinese anti-stealth radar deployed; EU designated IRGC terrorist org today
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EARNINGSWalmart Q4 beat; FY27 guidance disappoints; Deere surges — WMT: EPS $0.74 (beat $0.73); revenue $190.7B (+4.9% CC); eCommerce +24%; annual rev surpassed $700B first time; advertising +46% to $6.4B; $30B buyback; FY27 EPS guide $2.75–$2.85 vs $2.96 expected; stock +2.2% after initial −2% drop; first CEO Furner call; Deere +13% on Q1 earnings beat and raised guidance; Q4 S&P 500 earnings +12.8% YoY (371 of 500 reported)
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GAZABoard of Peace launches with $17B: Gaza reconstruction plan unveiled — Inaugural meeting at US Institute of Peace; Trump: US commits $10B; seven countries pledge $7B; Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan committing troops; FIFA $75M for facilities; Apollo’s Rowan: 100K homes for 500K residents in Rafah, $30B infrastructure over time; UK/Germany/France absent; no Palestinian representatives; Trump: BoP will “look over” the UN; Norway to host future event
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CANADACarney builds anti-tariff coalition; TSX record on commodity surge — Leading EU–CPTPP trading bloc talks; Davos: “rules-based order was partially false”; House voted 219–211 to end Canada tariffs (Feb 11); auto import credit scheme; TSX record 33,390 Wed (+1.5%); Shopify +7.6%, gold miners surged; $3.1B food affordability package; Carney in BC meeting law enforcement, then cheering women’s hockey gold medal game vs USA
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ENERGYOil surges on Iran fears; WTI at 2026 high above $65 — WTI jumped 4.6% Wed to $64.89, above $65 Thu; Brent topped $71; Hormuz handles 20% global oil; IRGC drills + Russia-China exercises; US inventory build 13.4M barrels partially offsets; crude at “new intraday high for 2026”; Canadian energy rallied: CNQ, Suncor, Cenovus +1.5–3.4%
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POLITICSDemocrats expand congressional lead; Olympics: Canada vs USA hockey gold — YouGov: Dems 47% vs GOP 40% on 2026 ballot (largest lead this cycle); Epstein: Les Wexner deposed by House Oversight (Feb 18); Lake Tahoe avalanche: 8 backcountry skiers dead; measles: 800+ cases across 23 states; Milano Cortina: Canada vs USA women’s hockey gold medal game tonight; men’s semifinal vs Finland Friday
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EPSTEINEpstein fallout deepens: Wexner deposed, congressional probes expand — Les Wexner deposed by House Oversight Feb 18, said he was “duped by a world-class con man”; VP Vance open to Prince Andrew testifying before Congress; Andrew arrested in UK today (first royal arrest in centuries; misconduct in public office); DOJ January file release continues triggering global resignations and departures across business and politics; Lake Tahoe avalanche: 8 backcountry skiers dead
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04
\nDevelopments to Watch
\nDevelopments to Watch
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SECURITY / GEOPOLITICSTrump’s 10-Day Countdown: The Most Dangerous Week in US-Iran Relations
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\nPresident Trump set an explicit timeline on Thursday. Speaking at the Board of Peace inaugural meeting in Washington, he told world leaders: “You are going to be finding out over the next probably 10 days” whether the US will strike Iran or reach a deal. It was his most direct public ultimatum yet.
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\nThe military infrastructure is already in place. CBS News reported that top national security officials briefed Trump on Wednesday that the Pentagon is ready for strikes as early as Saturday, February 21. Fifty fighter jets — F-35s, F-22s, and F-16s — were deployed to the region between February 17 and 18. The USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group is on station in the Arabian Sea; the USS Gerald R. Ford is transiting the Mediterranean and expected to arrive within days. The Pentagon is withdrawing some personnel from the region as a precautionary measure ahead of potential Iranian retaliation.
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\nAn unnamed Trump adviser told Axios there is a “90% chance we see kinetic action in the next few weeks.” US and Israeli officials described a potential operation as a “massive, weeks-long campaign” — something larger than the 12-day bombardment in June 2025. Senator Lindsey Graham said the naval buildup is “not here because it’s nice this time of year.”
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\nIran is not backing down. Its atomic energy chief said no country can deprive Iran of its right to nuclear enrichment. Russia and Iran launched joint naval exercises in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday, with China participating. The Strait of Hormuz — through which 20% of global oil transits — remains a flashpoint. Oil is at 2026 highs. The next 10 days will determine whether this becomes the largest Middle Eastern conflict since the Iraq War.
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\nPresident Trump set an explicit timeline on Thursday. Speaking at the Board of Peace inaugural meeting in Washington, he told world leaders: “You are going to be finding out over the next probably 10 days” whether the US will strike Iran or reach a deal. It was his most direct public ultimatum yet.
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\nThe military infrastructure is already in place. CBS News reported that top national security officials briefed Trump on Wednesday that the Pentagon is ready for strikes as early as Saturday, February 21. Fifty fighter jets — F-35s, F-22s, and F-16s — were deployed to the region between February 17 and 18. The USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group is on station in the Arabian Sea; the USS Gerald R. Ford is transiting the Mediterranean and expected to arrive within days. The Pentagon is withdrawing some personnel from the region as a precautionary measure ahead of potential Iranian retaliation.
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\nAn unnamed Trump adviser told Axios there is a “90% chance we see kinetic action in the next few weeks.” US and Israeli officials described a potential operation as a “massive, weeks-long campaign” — something larger than the 12-day bombardment in June 2025. Senator Lindsey Graham said the naval buildup is “not here because it’s nice this time of year.”
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\nIran is not backing down. Its atomic energy chief said no country can deprive Iran of its right to nuclear enrichment. Russia and Iran launched joint naval exercises in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday, with China participating. The Strait of Hormuz — through which 20% of global oil transits — remains a flashpoint. Oil is at 2026 highs. The next 10 days will determine whether this becomes the largest Middle Eastern conflict since the Iraq War.
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SECURITY / GEOPOLITICSIran’s Response: Nuclear Hardening, Hormuz Drills, and the Russia-China Axis
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\nAs the US positions for a possible strike, Iran is simultaneously preparing for conflict and maintaining a diplomatic channel. The picture that emerges is of a regime hedging across every dimension.
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\nMilitarily, satellite imagery shows Iran fortifying its nuclear sites. The Taleghan 2 facility has been wrapped in a concrete sarcophagus and buried with soil. Isfahan tunnel entrances are being sealed underground. Chinese-supplied YLC-8B anti-stealth radar has been deployed, designed to detect F-35s and B-2 bombers. Iran has also received Russian MiG-29 fighters and Mi-28NE gunships.
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\nOn February 16–17, the IRGC conducted “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz” live-fire exercises, temporarily closing the waterway through which 20% of global oil transits. On Thursday, Iran and Russia launched the “Maritime Security Belt 2026” joint naval exercise in the Gulf of Oman, with China participating. The trilateral naval axis sends a clear signal that any US military action will have broader geopolitical consequences.
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\nDiplomatically, two rounds of indirect talks have produced “guiding principles” but no breakthrough. Iran’s atomic energy chief declared that “no country can deprive the Islamic Republic of its right to nuclear enrichment.” Supreme Leader Khamenei warned that the “strongest military force may be struck so hard it cannot get up again.” The EU formally designated the IRGC as a terrorist organisation on February 19, adding another layer of pressure.
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\nAs the US positions for a possible strike, Iran is simultaneously preparing for conflict and maintaining a diplomatic channel. The picture that emerges is of a regime hedging across every dimension.
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\nMilitarily, satellite imagery shows Iran fortifying its nuclear sites. The Taleghan 2 facility has been wrapped in a concrete sarcophagus and buried with soil. Isfahan tunnel entrances are being sealed underground. Chinese-supplied YLC-8B anti-stealth radar has been deployed, designed to detect F-35s and B-2 bombers. Iran has also received Russian MiG-29 fighters and Mi-28NE gunships.
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\nOn February 16–17, the IRGC conducted “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz” live-fire exercises, temporarily closing the waterway through which 20% of global oil transits. On Thursday, Iran and Russia launched the “Maritime Security Belt 2026” joint naval exercise in the Gulf of Oman, with China participating. The trilateral naval axis sends a clear signal that any US military action will have broader geopolitical consequences.
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\nDiplomatically, two rounds of indirect talks have produced “guiding principles” but no breakthrough. Iran’s atomic energy chief declared that “no country can deprive the Islamic Republic of its right to nuclear enrichment.” Supreme Leader Khamenei warned that the “strongest military force may be struck so hard it cannot get up again.” The EU formally designated the IRGC as a terrorist organisation on February 19, adding another layer of pressure.
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CORPORATEWalmart’s $1 Trillion Problem: Beat the Quarter, Missed the Year
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\nWalmart delivered a strong Q4 under new CEO John Furner: EPS of $0.74 beat consensus by a penny, revenue of $190.7 billion (+4.9% constant currency) topped estimates, and the company surpassed $700 billion in annual revenue for the first time. E-commerce grew 24% globally, with 35% of store-fulfilled orders delivered in under three hours. The advertising business surged 46% to $6.4 billion. Operating cash flow hit $42 billion.
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\nBut the stock initially fell 2% premarket on the FY2027 outlook. Walmart guided for EPS of $2.75–$2.85, well below the $2.96 consensus. Sales growth guidance of 3.5–4.5% and operating income growth of 6–8% fell short. CFO Rainey cited an “unstable backdrop.” The stock recovered to +2.2% as investors parsed the $30 billion buyback and potential for guidance beats later in the year.
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\nSeparately, Deere jumped 13% after beating Q1 estimates and raising full-year guidance, a signal that agricultural and industrial equipment demand may be stabilising despite tariff headwinds. With 74% of S&P 500 companies having reported, Q4 earnings are up 12.8% year-over-year.
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\nWalmart delivered a strong Q4 under new CEO John Furner: EPS of $0.74 beat consensus by a penny, revenue of $190.7 billion (+4.9% constant currency) topped estimates, and the company surpassed $700 billion in annual revenue for the first time. E-commerce grew 24% globally, with 35% of store-fulfilled orders delivered in under three hours. The advertising business surged 46% to $6.4 billion. Operating cash flow hit $42 billion.
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\nBut the stock initially fell 2% premarket on the FY2027 outlook. Walmart guided for EPS of $2.75–$2.85, well below the $2.96 consensus. Sales growth guidance of 3.5–4.5% and operating income growth of 6–8% fell short. CFO Rainey cited an “unstable backdrop.” The stock recovered to +2.2% as investors parsed the $30 billion buyback and potential for guidance beats later in the year.
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\nSeparately, Deere jumped 13% after beating Q1 estimates and raising full-year guidance, a signal that agricultural and industrial equipment demand may be stabilising despite tariff headwinds. With 74% of S&P 500 companies having reported, Q4 earnings are up 12.8% year-over-year.
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GEOPOLITICS / GAZABoard of Peace: Trump’s $17 Billion Bet on Remaking Gaza — and the UN
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\nThe inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace at the US Institute of Peace brought together representatives from more than 40 countries — but the absences were as notable as the attendees. The UK, Germany, and France declined invitations. There was no Palestinian representation, though Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar gave the longest speech of any world leader.
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\nTrump announced the United States would contribute $10 billion, while seven other countries — including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan, and Morocco — pledged a combined $7 billion. Five countries committed troops to the International Stabilization Force for Gaza: 20,000 soldiers and 12,000 police planned. FIFA pledged $75 million for a national stadium and soccer facilities. Apollo CEO Marc Rowan outlined an initial plan for 100,000 homes for 500,000 residents in Rafah, with a long-term vision of 400,000 homes and $30 billion in infrastructure.
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\nThe meeting ran like a Cabinet session, with world leaders using their two-minute speaking slots to praise Trump. Trump himself used the platform for his most significant geopolitical statement of the day: the 10-day Iran ultimatum. He also said the Board of Peace would “almost be looking over” the United Nations — reinforcing concerns among European allies that the body is being positioned as a rival to multilateral institutions.
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\nThe fundamental question remains whether a plan with no Palestinian input, absent key Western allies, and dependent on a fragile ceasefire can deliver on these extraordinary financial commitments.
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\nThe inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace at the US Institute of Peace brought together representatives from more than 40 countries — but the absences were as notable as the attendees. The UK, Germany, and France declined invitations. There was no Palestinian representation, though Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar gave the longest speech of any world leader.
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\nTrump announced the United States would contribute $10 billion, while seven other countries — including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan, and Morocco — pledged a combined $7 billion. Five countries committed troops to the International Stabilization Force for Gaza: 20,000 soldiers and 12,000 police planned. FIFA pledged $75 million for a national stadium and soccer facilities. Apollo CEO Marc Rowan outlined an initial plan for 100,000 homes for 500,000 residents in Rafah, with a long-term vision of 400,000 homes and $30 billion in infrastructure.
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\nThe meeting ran like a Cabinet session, with world leaders using their two-minute speaking slots to praise Trump. Trump himself used the platform for his most significant geopolitical statement of the day: the 10-day Iran ultimatum. He also said the Board of Peace would “almost be looking over” the United Nations — reinforcing concerns among European allies that the body is being positioned as a rival to multilateral institutions.
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\nThe fundamental question remains whether a plan with no Palestinian input, absent key Western allies, and dependent on a fragile ceasefire can deliver on these extraordinary financial commitments.
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TRADE / CANADACarney’s Grand Strategy: Building a Post-American Trade Architecture
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\nCanada’s response to the US tariff war is evolving from damage control to strategic repositioning. Prime Minister Mark Carney is spearheading talks to create a trading bloc bridging the EU and the CPTPP. At Davos, his speech warning that the “rules-based international order was partially false” was widely seen as a direct rebuke to Trump.
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\nThe House voted 219–211 on February 11 to end Trump’s tariffs on Canada, with six Republicans breaking ranks. The resolution heads to the Senate but faces a certain presidential veto. Trump threatened political retribution against any Republican opposing tariffs.
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\nOn the ground, US tariffs at 35% inflict real damage. Economists estimate Canadian GDP has been reduced by 1.5–2%. GM cited $3–4 billion in tariff costs. Canada is revamping its auto tariff system with an “import credit” scheme to attract Asian automakers. The Gordie Howe Bridge has become a flashpoint after Trump threatened to block its opening.
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\nThe TSX hit a record 33,390 on Wednesday, led by Shopify (+7.6%), gold miners, and energy stocks. The commodity-heavy benchmark is outperforming US peers year-to-date, boosted by the Iran-driven oil surge and gold near $5,000.
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\nCanada’s response to the US tariff war is evolving from damage control to strategic repositioning. Prime Minister Mark Carney is spearheading talks to create a trading bloc bridging the EU and the CPTPP. At Davos, his speech warning that the “rules-based international order was partially false” was widely seen as a direct rebuke to Trump.
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\nThe House voted 219–211 on February 11 to end Trump’s tariffs on Canada, with six Republicans breaking ranks. The resolution heads to the Senate but faces a certain presidential veto. Trump threatened political retribution against any Republican opposing tariffs.
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\nOn the ground, US tariffs at 35% inflict real damage. Economists estimate Canadian GDP has been reduced by 1.5–2%. GM cited $3–4 billion in tariff costs. Canada is revamping its auto tariff system with an “import credit” scheme to attract Asian automakers. The Gordie Howe Bridge has become a flashpoint after Trump threatened to block its opening.
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\nThe TSX hit a record 33,390 on Wednesday, led by Shopify (+7.6%), gold miners, and energy stocks. The commodity-heavy benchmark is outperforming US peers year-to-date, boosted by the Iran-driven oil surge and gold near $5,000.
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MARKETSMarkets Sell Off Hard as Iran Strike Fears Dominate
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\nUS equities were firmly lower on Thursday as Iran strike fears drove oil higher and risk appetite lower. The Dow fell 0.9% (−426 points), the S&P 500 dropped 0.6% to 6,838 — decisively below its 50-day moving average — and the Nasdaq lost 0.7%. The VIX jumped 5.6% to 20.7, its highest level in over a week.
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\nThe selling was driven by a confluence of negatives: Trump’s explicit 10-day ultimatum to Iran, CBS reporting military readiness for strikes from Saturday, Walmart’s cautious FY27 guidance, and crude oil surging 2% to $66.50 (WTI’s 2026 high) with Brent above $71. Gold reclaimed $5,000 as a geopolitical hedge.
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\nBright spots were limited. Deere surged 13% on a Q1 earnings beat and raised full-year guidance, with CEO May citing recovery in construction and small agriculture. eBay rose 7% on its Depop/Etsy deal. EPAM fell 21% despite beating estimates, punished for cautious organic growth guidance.
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\nEconomic data was mixed: initial jobless claims plunged to 206,000 (from 227,000, well below 223,000 consensus), a sign of labour market resilience. But the December trade deficit surged to $70.3 billion, up $17.3 billion and far above the $55.5 billion forecast. Friday’s PCE inflation report looms large — a hot print on top of Iran escalation could accelerate the selloff.
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\nUS equities were firmly lower on Thursday as Iran strike fears drove oil higher and risk appetite lower. The Dow fell 0.9% (−426 points), the S&P 500 dropped 0.6% to 6,838 — decisively below its 50-day moving average — and the Nasdaq lost 0.7%. The VIX jumped 5.6% to 20.7, its highest level in over a week.
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\nThe selling was driven by a confluence of negatives: Trump’s explicit 10-day ultimatum to Iran, CBS reporting military readiness for strikes from Saturday, Walmart’s cautious FY27 guidance, and crude oil surging 2% to $66.50 (WTI’s 2026 high) with Brent above $71. Gold reclaimed $5,000 as a geopolitical hedge.
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\nBright spots were limited. Deere surged 13% on a Q1 earnings beat and raised full-year guidance, with CEO May citing recovery in construction and small agriculture. eBay rose 7% on its Depop/Etsy deal. EPAM fell 21% despite beating estimates, punished for cautious organic growth guidance.
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\nEconomic data was mixed: initial jobless claims plunged to 206,000 (from 227,000, well below 223,000 consensus), a sign of labour market resilience. But the December trade deficit surged to $70.3 billion, up $17.3 billion and far above the $55.5 billion forecast. Friday’s PCE inflation report looms large — a hot print on top of Iran escalation could accelerate the selloff.
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05
\nSovereign & Credit Pulse
\nSovereign & Credit Pulse
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| COUNTRY | KEY DEVELOPMENT | CREDIT SIGNAL |
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| United States | FOMC rate-hike debate; DHS shutdown Day 6; PCE due Fri | Hawkish pivot lifts yields; Fed leadership transition risk; deficit concerns persist |
| Canada | 35% US tariffs; GDP hit 1.5–2%; trade diversification | TSX at record; CUSMA review looms; 100% tariff threat if China deal deepens |
| Iran | Nuclear hardening; Hormuz drills; US buildup; EU IRGC designation | Extreme conflict risk; oil disruption priced into Brent $71+ |
| Ukraine | Geneva trilateral talks; US brokering alongside Iran crisis | Diplomatic bandwidth strain; EU €90B loan backstop |
| China | Joining Iran-Russia naval drills; Canada trade friction | Hormuz presence complicates US planning; trade realignment |
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06
\nKey Players & Quotes
\nKey Players & Quotes
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Donald Trump (US President) — Board of Peace: “You are going to be finding out over the next probably 10 days”; “bad things will happen” if Iran doesn’t make a deal; military briefed on strike readiness
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Marc Rowan (Apollo CEO, Board of Peace exec committee) — Outlined Gaza rebuilding plan: 100K homes for 500K residents in Rafah; $30B infrastructure; “This is not a problem of money. This is a problem of peace”
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Ali Khamenei (Iran Supreme Leader) — Warned the “strongest military force may be struck so hard it cannot get up again”; rejected key US nuclear demands
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Mark Carney (Canadian PM) — Building EU–CPTPP trade bloc; denied FTA with China; Feb 19: meeting BC law enforcement, cheering women’s hockey gold medal game
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John Furner (Walmart CEO, first earnings call) — On AI: “Agentic Commerce is gonna be great for our customers”; guided conservatively citing “unstable backdrop”
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Karoline Leavitt (WH Press Secretary) — On Iran: “Diplomacy is always his first option” but “there are many reasons one could make for a strike”
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07
\nRegulatory & Policy Watch
\nRegulatory & Policy Watch
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US tariffs on Canada — 35% on most goods; House voted 219–211 to end; Senate pending, Trump veto certain; CUSMA mandatory review in 2026; Gordie Howe Bridge standoff
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Fed leadership transition — Powell exits May; Warsh nomination expected; institutional guardrails to preserve independence; market pricing smaller balance sheet
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EU IRGC terrorist designation — Formally enacted Feb 19; follows Hormuz drills and protester crackdown; first such designation of Iranian military wing
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Canada import credit scheme — Carney launching consultations to revamp auto tariffs; designed to attract Asian automakers; maintains counter-tariffs on US vehicles
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DHS reforms demanded — 10 conditions: body cameras, masks off, use-of-force standards, warrants for private property, independent review board, disciplinary records transparency
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08
\nUpcoming Events
\nUpcoming Events
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| DATE | EVENT | SIGNIFICANCE |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 20 | PCE Price Index (Dec); Q4 GDP advance; Michigan sentiment | Fed’s preferred inflation gauge; 2.8% YoY consensus; GDP expected 3.0% |
| Feb 22 | Milano Cortina: Olympics closing ceremony | Canada medal count; women’s hockey gold decided tonight |
| Feb 23 | Congress returns from recess | DHS funding negotiations resume; potential shutdown resolution |
| Feb 24 | State of the Union address | May address DHS shutdown, Iran, tariffs; could announce Fed nominee |
| Feb 26 | NVIDIA Q4 earnings | Bellwether for AI capex cycle; Meta committed to millions of NVDA chips |
| Feb 28 | Rubio visits Israel re: Iran | Update on nuclear talks; may signal military timeline |
| ~Mar 1 | Iran expected to submit nuclear proposals | Critical diplomatic checkpoint; failure could trigger escalation |
| Mar 18 | FOMC rate decision | 95% hold; potentially first meeting under new chair if Warsh confirmed |
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09
\nStrategic Assessment
\nStrategic Assessment
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\nToday was defined by a single question: is the United States about to go to war with Iran?Trump’s 10-day ultimatum transforms the Iran crisis from latent threat to active countdown. The combination of an explicit presidential timeline, CBS confirmation of military readiness from Saturday, Axios reporting a 90% probability assessment from a Trump adviser, and the physical deployment of the largest air and naval force to the Middle East since the Iraq War creates a credible and imminent threat of conflict. This is no longer a negotiating tactic with plausible deniability — it is a public commitment to a decision point. Oil’s surge to 2026 highs reflects the market beginning to price this in. A full Hormuz closure would be an unprecedented shock to global energy markets.
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\nThe Board of Peace is Trump’s most ambitious multilateral gambit. $17 billion in pledges, troop commitments from five countries, and FIFA involvement give it substance. But the absence of the UK, Germany, France, and any Palestinian representatives raises fundamental questions about legitimacy. The board’s positioning as a potential rival to the UN — Trump said it would “look over” the institution — may deepen the rift with European allies at precisely the moment Washington needs allied support on Iran. The Epstein files’ fallout continues to expand domestically: Wexner’s House deposition and Vance’s openness to Andrew’s congressional testimony signal the investigations are accelerating.
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\nMarkets are correctly positioning for risk. The S&P 500 is below its 50-day moving average with the VIX rising sharply. The combination of Iran strike fears, a hot oil market, Walmart’s cautious guidance, and Friday’s PCE inflation print creates a gauntlet for bulls. Energy producers and gold are the natural hedges. The trade deficit surge to $70.3 billion adds a structural concern.
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\nBottom line: The next 10 days are the most consequential period for global markets and security since the June 2025 Iran bombings. Either diplomacy produces a breakthrough or the US launches a military campaign that could reshape the Middle East. Position defensively.
\n
\n
\nToday was defined by a single question: is the United States about to go to war with Iran?Trump’s 10-day ultimatum transforms the Iran crisis from latent threat to active countdown. The combination of an explicit presidential timeline, CBS confirmation of military readiness from Saturday, Axios reporting a 90% probability assessment from a Trump adviser, and the physical deployment of the largest air and naval force to the Middle East since the Iraq War creates a credible and imminent threat of conflict. This is no longer a negotiating tactic with plausible deniability — it is a public commitment to a decision point. Oil’s surge to 2026 highs reflects the market beginning to price this in. A full Hormuz closure would be an unprecedented shock to global energy markets.
\n
\nThe Board of Peace is Trump’s most ambitious multilateral gambit. $17 billion in pledges, troop commitments from five countries, and FIFA involvement give it substance. But the absence of the UK, Germany, France, and any Palestinian representatives raises fundamental questions about legitimacy. The board’s positioning as a potential rival to the UN — Trump said it would “look over” the institution — may deepen the rift with European allies at precisely the moment Washington needs allied support on Iran. The Epstein files’ fallout continues to expand domestically: Wexner’s House deposition and Vance’s openness to Andrew’s congressional testimony signal the investigations are accelerating.
\n
\nMarkets are correctly positioning for risk. The S&P 500 is below its 50-day moving average with the VIX rising sharply. The combination of Iran strike fears, a hot oil market, Walmart’s cautious guidance, and Friday’s PCE inflation print creates a gauntlet for bulls. Energy producers and gold are the natural hedges. The trade deficit surge to $70.3 billion adds a structural concern.
\n
\nBottom line: The next 10 days are the most consequential period for global markets and security since the June 2025 Iran bombings. Either diplomacy produces a breakthrough or the US launches a military campaign that could reshape the Middle East. Position defensively.
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USA & Canada Intelligence Brief
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February 19, 2026 — Thursday Edition
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This is part of The Rio Times’ coverage of North American economic and financial market developments.
Related: Brazil Morning Call | Global Economy Briefing
This article was produced by The Rio Times’ automated newsroom system. How we use AI · Report an error