US fact-checkers launch collaboration debunking deceptive 2026 midterm ads and election disinformation

• Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is implementing interventionist tactics in the bond market to lower interest rates. • The strategy mirrors an approach previously used by his predecessor, Janet L. Yellen, despite Bessent having criticized her for using these methods in 2024.

• U.S. fact-checkers have launched a first-of-its-kind joint collaboration to debunk deceptive advertisements and disinformation ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. • The initiative will utilize a newsletter to highlight common findings and track emerging election-year information trends across the United States.

• The United Indian Nations of Oklahoma will host a quarterly meeting for Tribal leaders and partners on August 27 in Tulsa. • The agenda focuses on critical issues including federal Indian health policy, Tribal sovereignty, and Native voter engagement for the upcoming November election.

• The U.S. national debt has reached a record high of $40 trillion, driven by consistent government spending exceeding tax revenue. • Key contributors to this surge include rising defense costs, funding for social programs, and increasing interest payments on the existing deficit.

• Dogecoin (DOGE) experienced a 7.9% price surge, reaching $0.07579 amid a broader wave of bullish market sentiment. • The price jump follows a new regulatory proposal from the SEC, which has unexpectedly fueled positive momentum for cryptocurrencies.

• GSK stock is currently trading at GBX1,919, reflecting a slight daily increase of 0.18%. • Technical analysis indicates the stock is in a consolidation phase as it approaches a key resistance level of GBX1,944.

• Palantir shares are currently trading at $171.63, showing a slight 0.1% gain while remaining below key moving averages. • Technical analyst Anton Kharitonov of Traders Union identifies a strong resistance level at $175.41, noting that sellers currently maintain control of the price action.

• Robinhood has announced that "Trump Accounts" will prioritize the S&P 500 as the core investment option for users. • The initiative includes a $1,000 Treasury boost specifically for eligible children born between 2025 and 2028.

• U.S. spot bitcoin ETFs recorded their largest inflow in 3.5 months, totaling $517.19 million, driven by rebounding crypto prices and increased investor risk appetite. • Simultaneously, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) proposed a new rule establishing two tailored exemptions for specific crypto investment contracts.

• U.S. stock futures rose following President Trump's decision to pause the implementation of new tariffs on Canada. • The market relief comes amid broader volatility caused by rising Treasury yields, increasing oil prices, and a recent downturn in technology stocks.

• The Korean won strengthened significantly against the U.S. dollar on August 19, 2026. • The exchange rate fell below the 1,400 won mark for the first time in 11 months.