Market Review: February 25, 2026
Closing Recap
| Index | Up/Down | % Change | Last |
|---|---|---|---|
| DJ Industrials | 307.77 | 0.63% | 49,482 |
| S&P 500 | 56.13 | 0.48% | 6,946 |
| Nasdaq | 288.40 | 0.95% | 23,152 |
| Russell 2000 | 11.00 | 0.41% | 2,663 |
Market Overview
U.S. stocks opened with little change but rallied throughout the day, closing near their highs. The technology sector led the gains, particularly semiconductors, which reached new all-time highs. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index (SOX) hit 8,498 ahead of earnings reports from NVIDIA (NVDA) in the AI chip sector, which also boosted other tech stocks. Software stocks also performed well ahead of earnings from Salesforce (CRM) and Snowflake (SNOW).
Precious metals saw continued gains, with gold and silver prices rising significantly. Bitcoin also showed signs of recovery, climbing over 8% to surpass $69,000. However, energy stocks faced declines, alongside homebuilders, utilities, and consumer staples. Political and geopolitical concerns, particularly regarding tariffs and tensions with Iran, continued to weigh on market sentiment, although U.S. government bonds remained supported despite a slight increase in yields.
Commodities, Currencies & Treasuries
Gold prices increased, with April gold rising by $49.90 (0.97%) to settle at $5,226.20 per ounce. March silver futures also saw a significant rise of $3.48 (3.99%) to settle at $90.98 per ounce. In contrast, oil prices slipped slightly due to a larger-than-expected build in U.S. crude stockpiles, with WTI crude settling at $65.42 per barrel.
The dollar gained against the yen, and Treasury yields edged higher, with the 10-year note rising to 4.046%. Bitcoin continued its upward trend, reaching highs above $69,000.
Sector News Breakdown
Retail, Consumer Staples & Restaurants
TJX reported better-than-expected Q4 results, while DEO's shares fell after disappointing guidance. CAVA's shares surged following strong Q4 results and positive guidance.
Homebuilders & Building Products
LOW reported better results but provided a weaker outlook, leading to a decline in shares. TREX was upgraded based on better guidance.
Energy
FSLR shares fell after disappointing results, while ENPH was upgraded due to improving demand trends.
Financials
CRCL shares rose on strong results, while NDAQ raised its medium-term revenue outlook.
Biotech & Pharma
ACHC and BBIO reported better-than-expected results, while GSK announced an acquisition of 35Pharma Inc.
Aerospace & Defense
AXON shares surged on positive results and guidance, while UBER announced a partnership with JOBY for air taxi services.
Conclusion
The market showed resilience with technology stocks leading the charge, while geopolitical concerns and sector-specific challenges created a mixed environment for investors. Key earnings reports and economic data releases in the coming days will be crucial for market direction.