Market Summary - February 17, 2026

Market Overview

U.S. stocks are experiencing early weakness, continuing the trend from last week, primarily due to concerns regarding the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and momentum selling pressure affecting technology shares. The materials and energy sectors, which had been strong performers in 2026, are also seeing broad declines, particularly in precious metals prices.

Key Index Performance

• DJ Industrials: -259.90 points (-0.53%) at 49,243
• S&P 500: -46.56 points (-0.68%) at 6,790
• Nasdaq: -237.35 points (-1.05%) at 22,310
• Russell 2000: -21.51 points (-0.81%) at 2,625

Sector Performance

The materials sector (XLB) is down 2%, and energy (XLE) is also facing declines. Precious metals are broadly lower, with March silver down 6.9% at $72.60 and April gold prices dropping over 3% to $4,880 an ounce. The strong dollar and potential peace developments between the U.S. and Iran are contributing to this momentum selling pressure.

Economic Data

Recent economic indicators include:

• NY Fed’s Empire State new orders index at +5.8 in February, down from +6.6 in January.
• February NAHB Housing market index declined to 36, below the consensus of 38.

Upcoming Events

This week is significant with the release of PCE inflation data, the largest consumer retail sector conference (CAGNY), and several Federal Reserve speakers scheduled to speak following strong jobs data and a cooler CPI inflation report.

Stock News

Gainers

• CMPS: +35% after positive results from a psilocybin-based depression therapy study.
• FISV: +4% as activist investor Jana Partners builds a stake and pushes for changes.
• MASI: +34% following confirmation of a $9.9 billion acquisition deal.
• ZIM: +31% after Hapag-Lloyd agrees to acquire it for $35/share.

Laggards

• CNH: -1% despite better Q4 revenues but forecasts below Wall Street estimates.
• GIS: -6% after cutting annual sales and profit forecasts.
• GPC: -11% after missing Q4 estimates and lowering full-year guidance.
• OCUL: -26% despite positive trial results for an eye disease drug.

Conclusion

The market is facing significant challenges with technology stocks under pressure from AI concerns, alongside declines in precious metals and energy sectors. Investors are advised to stay informed as key economic data and corporate earnings reports are released this week.