Markets Wobble Midday as Disappointing Walmart Outlook and Fed Uncertainty Weigh on Sentiment

U.S. equity markets are experiencing a volatile session this Thursday, February 19th, 2026, as investors grapple with a mix of disappointing corporate guidance, geopolitical tensions, and fresh economic data that complicates the outlook for interest rate cuts. After a strong performance on Wednesday led by technology gains, the major indexes have softened during midday trading, struggling to maintain upward momentum.Midday Market Performance and Index TrendsAs of midday, the major benchmarks are trading in ...