The Nasdaq Composite fell 0.3% on February 20, 2025, as tech stocks dragged the index lower despite strong earnings from giants like Apple and Microsoft. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.2%, while the S&P 500 dipped 0.1%.
Investors are closely watching inflation data and Federal Reserve policy signals, which could influence future interest rate decisions. Concerns about slowing global growth and rising inflation are weighing on sentiment.
“Tech stocks are under pressure as investors reassess valuations amid rising interest rates,” said Emily Zhang, a market strategist at Morgan Stanley.
In commodities, oil prices edged higher amid supply concerns, while gold prices rose slightly as investors sought safe-haven assets.