U.S. equities traded modestly lower late Thursday as rising oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and cautious Federal Reserve signals tempered momentum from the prior session’s AI-fueled advance.
Stocks Ease in Late Trading as Oil Hits Six-Month HighThe pullback follows Wednesday’s rally, when artificial intelligence-linked optimism lifted technology shares and drove the S&P 500 up 0.6% and the Nasdaq 0.8%. Market breadth was mixed during that session, with fewer than two-thirds of Dow components finishing higher.
The 10-year Treasury yield held near 4.07%, while the U.S. dollar index rose 0.2% to 97.90. Futures markets currently price in two quarter-point rate cuts in 2026, though stronger data could alter that outlook.
After-hours earnings from Booking, Block, Intuit and Rivian are expected to influence technology, travel and consumer-related shares. Broader themes, including AI investment trends and pending Supreme Court decisions on tariffs, add additional variables for investors.
FAQ ⏱️ Why are U.S. stocks lower on Feb. 19, 2026?Stocks are modestly down due to rising oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and caution ahead of key inflation data. What is the Dow Jones level in late trading?The Dow Jones Industrial Average was at 49,349, down 314 points, as of 2:30 p.m. EST. What is core PCE expected to show?Core Personal Consumption Expenditures inflation is forecast at 3% year-over-year. How are oil prices affecting markets?Crude oil above $66 per barrel is supporting energy stocks but weighing on broader risk sentiment.
