Global Trade Daily Briefing - 2026-02-11

Daily Foreign Trade Briefing for 2/11/2026. Curated insights on Finance, Logistics, Compliance, and Global Markets.

Global Macro & Finance

The crypto market faces a pivotal moment, with Galaxy's CEO suggesting its speculative era may be ending as Bitwise's CIO points to its volatile four-year cycle, even as MicroStrategy's Michael Saylor vows to double down on bitcoin purchases. Concurrently, traditional finance sees strategic shifts, with the Vatican Bank launching its first equity indexes to align with Catholic values and Alphabet aggressively raising over $30 billion in debt to fund its AI ambitions.

Crypto's 'age of speculation' may be over, says Galaxy CEO Mike Novogratz

Galaxy CEO Mike Novogratz suggests the 2026 crypto market decline may signal the end of the retail speculation era. (Finance)

Vatican Bank makes first foray into equity indexes, setting stage for potential ETF launches

The Vatican Bank has launched two stock indexes aligned with Catholic values, a move that could lead to new investment funds. (Finance)

Bitcoin plunge: Bitwise CIO cites 'the four-year cycle' as No. 1 reason for losses

Bitcoin's recent price drop is primarily due to its predictable four-year market cycle, according to Bitwise's CIO. (Finance)

Alphabet boosts debt sale again as total raise exceeds $30 billion, sources say

Alphabet has increased its bond sale to over $30 billion to fund its AI expansion. (Finance)

Michael Saylor downplays Strategy credit risk as bitcoin tumbles: 'We'll refinance the debt'

Michael Saylor says MicroStrategy will refinance its debt and continue buying bitcoin despite its falling price. (Finance)

Global Logistics (Sea & Air)

Global logistics is seeing strategic shifts as e-commerce giants like JD.com build localized networks in Europe, while ocean carriers CMA CGM and Maersk intensify services on high-growth Asia-West Africa routes. Concurrently, infrastructure developments like the Manston air cargo hub face funding challenges, and geopolitical tensions threaten market access for airlines like Qatar Airways, even as major assets such as Maher Terminals remain highly coveted.

JD.com goes local in Europe as ecommerce shifts beyond de minimis

JD.com is establishing a European delivery network to adapt to upcoming stricter EU import regulations. (The Loadstar)

CMA CGM and Maersk double-down on Asia-West Africa services

CMA CGM and Maersk are expanding their Asia-West Africa shipping services due to strong trade growth. (The Loadstar)

Manston developer seeks more funds to open new air cargo hub

The developer of Manston Airport is seeking £750 million in additional funding to open a new air cargo hub, despite continued opposition to the plans. (The Loadstar)

Battle lines drawn in Brussels over EU access for Qatar Airways

The EU is considering restricting market access for Qatar Airways, sparking a dispute. (The Loadstar)

Maher Terminals – the Big Apple’s big prize

New York's high property values extend to its prized cargo terminal, Maher Terminals. (The Loadstar)

E-commerce & Retail Trends

The retail landscape is marked by strategic repositioning, as seen in Saks Global's store closures and Toys R Us Canada's restructuring, while growth brands like Brooks Running and Warby Parker strengthen their leadership to capitalize on momentum. This contrast highlights an industry-wide focus on operational efficiency and executive talent to navigate shifting consumer demands.

Saks Global to shutter 9 full-line stores

Saks Global is closing nine stores, mostly Saks Fifth Avenue locations, with more closures possible. (Retail Dive - Latest News)

Warby Parker taps Macy’s vet as CFO

Warby Parker has hired former Macy's executive Adrian Mitchell as its new CFO. (Retail Dive - Latest News)

Brooks Running revenue up 16% in 2025

Brooks Running achieved its ninth straight year of growth in 2025, with a 16% revenue increase and securing the top market position in U.S. performance running footwear. (Retail Dive - Latest News)

Target names COO, chief merchant

Target is restructuring its leadership by appointing a new COO and shifting to a single chief merchant. (Retail Dive - Latest News)

Toys R Us Canada files for creditor protection

Toys R Us Canada is restructuring under creditor protection by closing stores and exploring its options. (Retail Dive - Latest News)