Big tech stocks lose billions as AI spending fears hit valuations
Reuters·2026-02-16 09:38

Core Insights - Major technology stocks have experienced significant declines in market value due to concerns over the return on investment from heavy AI spending, leading to a shift in investor sentiment from long-term ambitions to a demand for near-term earnings visibility [1] Company Performance - Microsoft shares have decreased by approximately 17% year-to-date, resulting in a market value loss of about $613 billion, bringing its valuation to around $2.98 trillion [1] - Amazon's stock has fallen by about 13.85%, erasing roughly $343 billion in market value, leaving it valued at approximately $2.13 trillion; the company anticipates a capital spending increase of over 50% this year [1] - Nvidia, Apple, and Alphabet have also seen declines in market value, with losses of $89.67 billion, $256.44 billion, and $87.96 billion, respectively, resulting in valuations of $4.44 trillion, $3.76 trillion, and $3.7 trillion [1] Market Trends - The decline in major tech stocks indicates a broader market shift, as investors are moving away from speculative enthusiasm for AI towards a focus on immediate financial performance [1] - In contrast, companies like TSMC, Samsung Electronics, and Walmart have gained market value, adding $293.89 billion, $272.88 billion, and $179.17 billion, respectively, with valuations reaching $1.58 trillion, $817 billion, and $1.07 trillion [1]