President Donald Trump unveiled fresh tariffs targeting Canada, Mexico, and China, sparking concerns over trade relations and economic impact. Meanwhile, Nvidia shares tumbled 8.5%, despite reporting strong earnings and guidance, as investors took profits after its recent rally.The S&P 500 declined 1.6%, continuing its struggle in February and remaining on track for a losing month. The Nasdaq dropped 2.8%, dragged down by weakness in technology stocks, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average reversed early gains to close 0.5% lower.Major Stock Movers
Biggest Decliners:
With February shaping up to be a difficult month for equities, investors remain cautious amid trade tensions and profit-taking in high-growth sectors like AI and semiconductors. As the Federal Reserve continues to assess inflationary pressures, market volatility could persist in the coming weeks.
Biggest Decliners:
- Teleflex (TFX) plunged 21.7% after announcing a corporate split into two separate companies, unnerving investors.
- Super Micro Computer (SMCI) lost 16% following reports that two company officers had filed to sell shares, adding to concerns after its delayed annual report.
- Viatris (VTRS) fell 15.2% as the pharmaceutical firm posted weaker-than-expected earnings and issued a disappointing outlook, citing regulatory challenges at an overseas facility.
- Vistra Corp. (VST) dropped 12.3% despite exceeding earnings estimates. The Texas-based energy company, which has benefited from rising AI-driven energy demand, saw its stock decline alongside other AI-related names.
- Invitation Homes (INVH) climbed 5.5% after the real estate investment trust (REIT) reported strong revenue and net income growth, driven by increased same-store rental income.
- Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) rose 4.7%, buoyed by an optimistic outlook for its Max streaming platform, despite reporting weaker-than-expected earnings. The company aims to expand globally, targeting 150 million subscribers by 2026.
- Allstate (ALL) gained 3.5% after announcing a dividend hike to $1 per share and unveiling a $1.5 billion share buyback program.
- Universal Health Services (UHS) increased 3.3% on strong earnings and an upbeat revenue forecast. The hospital operator cited higher admissions and patient volumes, although it also faced rising expenses.
With February shaping up to be a difficult month for equities, investors remain cautious amid trade tensions and profit-taking in high-growth sectors like AI and semiconductors. As the Federal Reserve continues to assess inflationary pressures, market volatility could persist in the coming weeks.
