The cryptocurrency market experienced mild volatility today, February 19, 2026, with the global market cap hovering around **$2.35–2.38 trillion**, down approximately 1-1.8% in the last 24 hours amid broader sentiment shifts.
Today's **top 10 trending cryptocurrencies**, based on search visibility, trading interest, and momentum from platforms like CoinMarketCap and CoinGecko, include a mix of layer-1/L2 solutions, meme-related tokens, and high-volatility newcomers:
1. **Optimism (OP)** — Leading trends with a sharp ~24% 24h surge to around $0.14, driven by renewed Layer-2 optimism and high search volume.
2. **Pudgy Penguins (PENGU)** — NFT-linked token gaining traction, down ~7% but highly searched amid community buzz.
3. **Hyperliquid (HYPE)** — Perpetual DEX protocol trending strong with modest -1.8% change.
4. **Espresso (ESP)** — Emerging contender up significantly (~25-35% in spots), capturing attention in DeFi circles.
5. **Ethereum (ETH)** — Steady interest at ~$1,970, with slight gains supporting ecosystem developments.
6. **Bittensor (TAO)** — AI-crypto narrative pushing ~5% uptick.
7. **Pi Network (PI)** — Mobile mining project remaining popular.
8. **Aptos (APT)** — Up ~6%, fueled by network upgrades.
9. **Zama (ZAMA)** — Privacy-focused tech seeing ~8% momentum.
10. **Solana (SOL)** — High-volume chain at ~$82, trending on ecosystem activity.
Major coins like **Bitcoin (BTC)** (~$67,000, -0.5-1%) and **XRP** hold steady despite dips. Traders watch for macro cues, with altcoins showing outsized volatility. Always DYOR—crypto markets remain highly unpredictable.