Market Summary - February 19, 2026
US Market Overview
The trading session on Wall Street opened with a negative sentiment, as major U.S. stock indices experienced moderate declines, approximately 0.5% down. The Russell 2000 index was particularly affected, indicating investor concerns regarding the future of interest-rate cuts.
Market Risks
Several risks are currently weighing on market valuations:
- The Federal Reserve's recent minutes surprised the market with a hawkish tone.
- Increased tensions with Iran are raising geopolitical concerns.
- Worrying signals are emerging from the private credit market.
Macroeconomic Data
Recent economic data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) showed:
- Initial jobless claims fell to 206,000, better than the expected 223,000.
- Continuing claims rose to 1,869,000.
- Trade data indicated a widening trade deficit, reaching USD 70.3 billion, with imports rising and exports falling.
- The Philadelphia Fed Manufacturing Index increased to 16.3, significantly above the expected 7.5 and the previous reading of 12.6.
Technical Analysis
In terms of technical analysis for the US100 index, buyers are struggling to regain momentum. A rebound from the 61.8% Fibonacci level was quickly reversed, and the price remains below the 50- and 100-period EMAs. A critical level to watch is the 50% Fibonacci retracement; if the price falls below approximately 24,500, a deeper correction could ensue, potentially targeting the 200 EMA and the 61.8% Fibonacci level.
Company News
Key corporate earnings reports include:
- Walmart (WMT.US): Reported earnings per share (EPS) of USD 0.74 and revenue of USD 190.7 billion, slightly beating expectations. The company announced a USD 30 billion share buyback, although revenue guidance for the next year was below market expectations.
- Carvana (CVNA.US): Shares fell by 16% following disappointing results, with margins under pressure and profit per unit sold declining.
- Deere (DE.US): Shares rose over 4% after reporting better-than-expected results and providing optimistic guidance.
- DoorDash (DASH.US): Shares increased by more than 12% after quarterly results exceeded market expectations, driven by growth in order volume.