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Shaqeem Akbar-Downey Sets the Record Straight on 5 Myths Holding People Back

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Ontario, Canada, 19th February 2026, ZEX PR WIRE, Drawing on years of experience working with used-car dealerships and youth athletic programs, Akbar-Downey aims to replace assumptions with practical, everyday clarity.

Local marketing and youth sports professional Shaqeem Akbar-Downey is speaking out to address five common myths that he sees repeatedly mislead people in his area. 

“Most people aren’t stuck because they lack talent,” he says. “They’re stuck because they believe things that just aren’t true.”

Below are the five myths he believes do the most damage—and what to do instead.

Myth 1: You need a big budget to get real results

Why people believe it:
People see national ads and assume success comes from spending more.

The truth:
Small, focused campaigns often outperform large ones. In Shaqeem’s work, localized ads aimed at specific neighborhoods consistently generate higher-quality leads than broad campaigns.

Practical tip:
Start with one clear audience and one clear message. Test before scaling.

“Numbers don’t lie,” Akbar-Downey says. “If something isn’t working, spending more won’t fix it.”

Myth 2: Talent matters more than consistency

Why people believe it:
Highlight reels and success stories make talent look like the deciding factor.

The truth:
Consistency wins over time. Shaqeem has seen talented athletes and smart marketers fail simply because they didn’t show up consistently.

Practical tip:
Pick one habit you can repeat daily. Keep it simple and measurable.

“Effort keeps you in the game,” he explains. “Talent just gets you noticed.”

Myth 3: If an idea is good, it will work right away

Why people believe it:
People expect instant results and quick validation.

The truth:
Most strong ideas need testing and adjustment. Shaqeem treats marketing like sports—small changes, constant feedback.

Practical tip:
Launch small. Learn fast. Adjust without emotion.

“I don’t believe in launching big without proof,” he says.

Myth 4: Sports are just games

Why people believe it:
Athletics are often seen as hobbies, not tools.

The truth:
Youth sports build discipline, structure, and accountability. Shaqeem credits basketball and football with shaping how he works today.

Practical tip:
Use sports—or any routine—as a way to teach habits, not just skills.

“Sports gave me structure when I needed it,” he says.

Myth 5: If it looks good, it must be working

Why people believe it:
Clean design and polished messaging feel reassuring.

The truth:
Shaqeem recalls early campaigns that looked strong but failed to deliver real leads because the audience wasn’t right.

Practical tip:
Measure outcomes, not appearances. Track results daily.

“Good strategy starts with listening,” he says.

If You Only Remember One Thing

Progress comes from clarity, consistency, and follow-through—not hype, shortcuts, or assumptions.

Call to Action
Shaqeem Akbar-Downey encourages readers to share this myth list with someone who might need it and try just one practical tip today. Small changes, repeated often, add up.

About Shaqeem Akbar-Downey

Shaqeem Akbar-Downey is a marketing and advertising management professional who partners with major used car dealerships to run performance-driven campaigns. He is also actively involved in youth basketball and football training programs, volunteering to support young athletes in the communities where he grew up. His work focuses on results, discipline, and long-term growth through consistent action.

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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Press Release

BTCD Foundation Launches Layer 1 Blockchain Infrastructure and Opens Public Testnet

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The BTCD Foundation has announced the upcoming deployment of its proprietary Layer 1 blockchain infrastructure. This development marks the introduction of a new technical framework designed to support decentralized applications and secure digital transactions. The Foundation has confirmed that the Public Testnet is scheduled to open for user participation on February 15, 2026.

Technical Architecture and Infrastructure

The BTCD platform is engineered as an independent Layer 1 blockchain, distinct from token-based projects that rely on existing third-party networks. The core infrastructure utilizes a hybrid consensus mechanism combining Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) and Proof of Stake (PoS) protocols.

This architectural design is intended to address common scalability challenges in blockchain technology. The technical specifications indicate a capacity for high-volume throughput, with initial testing targeting transaction speeds of over 10,000 transactions per second (TPS) while maintaining sub-second finality. The system is built to operate autonomously, providing a decentralized foundation for developers and users.

Testnet Deployment and Minting Mechanism

Beginning February 15, 2026, the BTCD Foundation will initiate the Public Testnet phase. This phase allows users to interact with the network’s minting protocol to test system stability and performance.

The minting process follows a programmed algorithmic schedule designed to test the network’s long-term sustainability over a projected 25-year timeline. The protocol includes technical halving events scheduled every 2.5 years to regulate the issuance rate of digital assets on the network.

Transition to Mainnet

The Testnet phase is a precursor to the official Mainnet launch, which is currently scheduled for May 15, 2026. The Foundation has outlined a technical migration plan wherein digital assets minted during the Testnet phase will be recognized on the Mainnet system upon its activation.

Ecosystem Development Roadmap

Following the Mainnet launch, the BTCD Foundation plans to deploy a suite of decentralized applications (dApps) integrated directly into the Layer 1 core. The technical roadmap outlines the phased release of nine specific utilities, including:

  • Nexora: A decentralized communication protocol.
  • Guardian DEX: A decentralized exchange interface.
  • WealthBook: A social networking platform integrated with blockchain identity verification.

    Future updates scheduled for later in 2026 involve the integration of automated trading algorithms and asset management utilities.

About BTCD Foundation

The BTCD Foundation is a technology organization focused on the development of Layer 1 blockchain solutions. It aims to build a scalable, secure, and decentralized infrastructure to support the next generation of digital applications.

Testnet Access: http://btcd.foundation

Community Hub: https://t.me/btcdfoundation1

Media Contact

Organization: BTCD FOUNDATION

Contact Person: Mr. Alex – CEO

Website: https://btcd.foundation

Email: Send Email

Country:Panama

Release id:41440

The post BTCD Foundation Launches Layer 1 Blockchain Infrastructure and Opens Public Testnet appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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Press Release

BTCD Foundation Launches Layer 1 Blockchain Infrastructure and Opens Public Testnet

Published

on

The BTCD Foundation has announced the upcoming deployment of its proprietary Layer 1 blockchain infrastructure. This development marks the introduction of a new technical framework designed to support decentralized applications and secure digital transactions. The Foundation has confirmed that the Public Testnet is scheduled to open for user participation on February 15, 2026.

Technical Architecture and Infrastructure

The BTCD platform is engineered as an independent Layer 1 blockchain, distinct from token-based projects that rely on existing third-party networks. The core infrastructure utilizes a hybrid consensus mechanism combining Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) and Proof of Stake (PoS) protocols.

This architectural design is intended to address common scalability challenges in blockchain technology. The technical specifications indicate a capacity for high-volume throughput, with initial testing targeting transaction speeds of over 10,000 transactions per second (TPS) while maintaining sub-second finality. The system is built to operate autonomously, providing a decentralized foundation for developers and users.

Testnet Deployment and Minting Mechanism

Beginning February 15, 2026, the BTCD Foundation will initiate the Public Testnet phase. This phase allows users to interact with the network’s minting protocol to test system stability and performance.

The minting process follows a programmed algorithmic schedule designed to test the network’s long-term sustainability over a projected 25-year timeline. The protocol includes technical halving events scheduled every 2.5 years to regulate the issuance rate of digital assets on the network.

Transition to Mainnet

The Testnet phase is a precursor to the official Mainnet launch, which is currently scheduled for May 15, 2026. The Foundation has outlined a technical migration plan wherein digital assets minted during the Testnet phase will be recognized on the Mainnet system upon its activation.

Ecosystem Development Roadmap

Following the Mainnet launch, the BTCD Foundation plans to deploy a suite of decentralized applications (dApps) integrated directly into the Layer 1 core. The technical roadmap outlines the phased release of nine specific utilities, including:

  • Nexora: A decentralized communication protocol.
  • Guardian DEX: A decentralized exchange interface.
  • WealthBook: A social networking platform integrated with blockchain identity verification.

    Future updates scheduled for later in 2026 involve the integration of automated trading algorithms and asset management utilities.

About BTCD Foundation

The BTCD Foundation is a technology organization focused on the development of Layer 1 blockchain solutions. It aims to build a scalable, secure, and decentralized infrastructure to support the next generation of digital applications.

Testnet Access: http://btcd.foundation

Community Hub: https://t.me/btcdfoundation1

Media Contact

Organization: BTCD FOUNDATION

Contact Person: Mr. Alex – CEO

Website: https://btcd.foundation

Email: Send Email

Country:Panama

Release id:41440

The post BTCD Foundation Launches Layer 1 Blockchain Infrastructure and Opens Public Testnet appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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Press Release

Torch, LLC Launches TRCH Utility Token with Live Staking and On-Chain Referral Features on Torch-RWA Platform

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Torch, LLC has launched its TRCH utility token alongside staking and on-chain referral features within the Torch-RWA platform. The release introduces user access tools and incentive mechanisms designed to support ecosystem participation while maintaining a compliance-focused framework and clear distinction between utility token functions and future regulated real-world asset offerings.

Ethereum-based token goes live alongside user portal, supporting participation in Torch’s real-world asset tokenization ecosystem.

Atlanta, GA 30338, Georgia, United States, 19th Feb 2026 – Torch, LLC (“Torch”) today announced the official launch of its native utility token, TRCH, and the activation of the staking and referral rewards programs. TRCH is designed to support platform access, fee functionality, governance participation, and ecosystem incentives across the Torch-RWA Tokenization Platform, a compliance-driven marketplace for tokenized real-world assets (“RWAs”).

The launch follows Torch’s earlier announcements introducing Torch-RWA and outlining TRCH tokenomics and an in-house token distribution module conducted exclusively through the Torch-RWA landing page—an approach intended to provide transparent, phased distribution and reduce dependence on speculative third-party exchange listings.

“Today we go live,” said Eric McClendon, CEO of Torch, LLC, “users finally have a simple way to own, hold, and use TRCH tokens while we continue building out our regulated, real-world asset tokenization infrastructure.”

What Launch Day Includes

With this release, users can:

  • Participate in staking rounds offering time-based TRCH incentives
  • Use unique referral links to receive additional TRCH when their contacts participate in the token distribution module
  • Access the Torch Token Distribution Module
  • Connect their wallet (Metamask, Trust Wallet, etc.)
  • Get the TRCH token using USDC (ERC-20, Ethereum Network)
  • View and manage TRCH balances
  • Take part in early governance and signaling on specified protocol parameters

TRCH is an ERC-20 utility token designed to power the Torch-RWA Ecosystem. The TRCH smart contract has been independently audited by CertiK, a blockchain security firm, as part of Torch’s focus on security and transparency. Torch-RWA has been listed on CertiK Skynet’s Top Emerging RWA Projects Leaderboard, as reflected on publicly available platform data, even prior to the marketplace’s full launch.

Staking: Lock TRCH, Receive Protocol Incentives

Torch has activated a round-based staking program that lets TRCH holders commit their tokens for fixed periods in exchange for additional TRCH token incentives, paid from a pre-allocated rewards pool.

On launch day, the staking program includes the following round parameters:

  • 30-day round – 22% APY, 5% early-exit penalty
  • 90-day round – 33% APY, 5% early-exit penalty
  • 180-day round –44% APY, 5% early-exit penalty
  • 365-day round – 66% APY, 5% early-exit penalty

In practical terms:

  • Users choose a round, lock a chosen amount of TRCH, and see protocol-defined incentives accrue programmatically for the length of the lock-up.
  • Rewards are paid in TRCH and can be harvested at any time during the staking period without unstaking; principal remains locked until maturity.
  • If a user decides to exit early, an automatic penalty applies, and both the principal and any remaining rewards are adjusted accordingly.

All staking activity runs through smart contracts that apply security functions to prevent reentries, time-lock, safe-math APY calculation, reward harvesting, and penalties for early unstaking.  Any user can stake or receive staking rewards, and all transactions are logged on-chain for audit and reporting.

Staking incentives are protocol-based utility mechanisms and should not be interpreted as interest, guaranteed returns, or investment performance.

“Staking is our way of rewarding early adopters who are willing to commit to the ecosystem,” McClendon said. “It’s simple to understand—lock TRCH, acquire TRCH—and use it on the Torch-RWA Platform.”

Referral Program: On-Chain Rewards for Growing the Network

Alongside staking, Torch is launching the TRCH Referral Program, giving users a straightforward way to receive extra TRCH for helping expand the user base.

Key elements:

  • Every user receives a unique referral link tied to their wallet when they connect.
  • When someone uses that link, and acquires TRCH tokens through our token distribution module, the referrer receives an on-chain, one-time TRCH token reward.)
  • The referral rate is set on a program-wide basis, currently targeted at 5%, and is capped globally so that referral rewards can never exceed a defined share of total supply.

The system prevents self-referrals, contract-address referrals, and circular referral chains, and all relationships and payouts are tracked on-chain. Administrators can disable abusive relationships while leaving legitimate referrals untouched.

Referral rewards are paid only in TRCH, do not accrue interest, and do not represent any guaranteed rate of return. They are simply one-time, programmatic token rewards for user introductions that result in successful TRCH token acquisitions.

“The staking and referral programs are designed to reward participation, not speculation,” McClendon added. “If you help grow the user community or commit your tokens for a period of time, the system recognizes that with transparent, on-chain TRCH rewards.”

Continued Focus on Compliance and Future RWA Listings

Torch emphasized that today’s launch does not change its regulatory posture: any future RWA security-token offerings on the Torch-RWA Tokenization Platform will remain subject to applicable securities laws, jurisdictional eligibility rules, and formal offering documentation. Participation will be limited to verified users in permitted jurisdictions, and transfers of any security tokens will be controlled through on-chain identity and compliance checks.

Torch has indicated that the anticipated launch date for Torch-RWA is expected to be within the next 3 to 6 months, although this timeline may be subject to change. This development aims to further enhance the ecosystem’s compliance-driven infrastructure for tokenized real-world assets.

An updated Torch-RWA Whitepaper, detailing the marketplace architecture, TRCH utilities, staking workflow, referral logic, and the separation between utility tokens and regulated RWA tokens, is now available on the Torch-RWA website. Interested participants are encouraged to review the full Torch-RWA Whitepaper before engaging with TRCH or any future RWA offerings.

About Torch, LLC and Torch-RWA

Torch, LLC operates Torch-RWA, a blockchain-based marketplace for the compliant issuance, trading, and revenue automation of tokenized real-world assets. Torch-RWA integrates regulated security-token standards, automated KYC/AML enforcement, decentralized governance, and programmable finance to provide institutional-grade digital infrastructure for RWA tokenization.

For more information, visit https://torch-rwa.com.

Contact them via

Email: Jason@jmfcommunications.com

Visit Torch-RWA through

X (Twitter): https://x.com/Torchrwa

Telegram: https://t.me/torch_rwa

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torch_rwa/

Media Contact

Organization: Torch-RWA

Contact Person: Jason Feldman

Media & Communications

Phone: (470) 626-1055

Website: https://torch-rwa.com/

Email: Jason@jmfcommunications.com

Corporate Office – Torch, LLC

1050 Crown Pointe Parkway

Suite 500

Atlanta, GA 30338

United States

Disclaimer(s)

This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, tokens, or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Any future offering of securities or digital assets will be made only by means of applicable offering documents and only to investors who meet all eligibility, suitability, and regulatory requirements.

Digital assets and tokenized securities are speculative and involve a high degree of risk, including possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any tokenization initiative, financing plan, or development described herein will be completed as contemplated or will achieve any particular financial outcome. Statements in this release that are not historical facts are “forward-looking statements” subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially due to risks and uncertainties including regulatory approvals, financing conditions, construction timelines, and market adoption of emerging technologies.

Media Contact

Organization: Torch, LLC

Contact Person: Jason Feldman

Website: https://torch-rwa.com/

Email: Send Email

Address:1050 Crown Pointe Parkway

Address 2: Suite 500

City: Atlanta, GA 30338

State: Georgia

Country:United States

Release id:41592

The post Torch, LLC Launches TRCH Utility Token with Live Staking and On-Chain Referral Features on Torch-RWA Platform appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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About Author

Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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