More drops for AI stocks drag Wall Street to its worst day in nearly a month
The Economic Times·2025-12-18 00:56

Market Overview - The S&P 500 fell 1.2%, marking its worst day in nearly a month, while still remaining close to its all-time high set last week [1][13] - The Dow Jones Industrial Average decreased by 228 points, or 0.5%, and the Nasdaq composite dropped 1.8% [1][13] - Slightly more stocks rose within the S&P 500 than fell, but losses in the artificial intelligence sector overshadowed these gains [1][13] Artificial Intelligence Sector - Concerns are growing regarding whether the prolonged dominance of AI stocks has led to inflated prices and whether investments in AI will yield sufficient profits and productivity [2][13] - Only 17% of surveyed large businesses reported being in production at scale with their AI projects, suggesting caution for tech investors regarding future revenue growth from AI products [5][13] - Major AI companies experienced significant declines, with Broadcom down 4.5%, Oracle falling 5.4%, and CoreWeave sinking 7.1% [13] Homebuilding Industry - Lennar's stock fell 4.5% following a mixed profit report, with weaker profits than expected despite revenue exceeding forecasts [6][13] - Executive Chairman Stuart Miller indicated challenging market conditions, with customers seeking discounts and more affordable options, leading to limited forecasts for future performance [6][13] Insurance Sector - Progressive's stock decreased by 2% after reporting a 5% decline in net income for November compared to the previous year [7][13] Energy Sector - Oil companies saw gains following President Trump's blockade of sanctioned oil tankers into Venezuela, which may have significant oil reserves [7][13] - The price of benchmark U.S. crude rose by 1.2% to $55.94, while Brent crude increased by 1.3% to $59.68 per barrel [8][13] - ConocoPhillips rose 4.6%, Devon Energy rallied 5.3%, and Exxon Mobil climbed 2.4% as a result of rising oil prices [8][13] Entertainment Sector - Netflix's stock increased by 0.2% after Warner Bros. Discovery's board recommended shareholders approve its buyout offer, while Warner Bros. Discovery fell 2.4% and Paramount Skydance dropped 5.4% [9][13] Bond Market - Treasury yields remained steady, with the yield on the 10-year Treasury holding at 4.15% ahead of an upcoming inflation report [10][13] International Markets - Stock indexes in Europe were mixed following a stronger finish in Asia, with South Korea's Kospi gaining 1.4% [10][13]