Teetering US tech trade puts anchor on market as Nvidia test looms

Group 1 - The technology stock trade has faced challenges in 2026, primarily due to fears surrounding artificial intelligence disruptions and a shift in investor interest towards lagging sectors [1] - The S&P 500 technology sector has declined by 3.5% year-to-date, marking its worst start since 2022 [1] - Software companies have been particularly affected, with the S&P 500 software and services index down 23% in 2026, the worst start on record for this group [1] Group 2 - Nvidia's upcoming quarterly report is seen as a critical test for the tech sector, as it is a key player in AI and its results could significantly impact the industry [1] - The semiconductor and hardware sectors have shown resilience, with gains of 7% and over 4% respectively in 2026, contrasting with the struggles of software companies [1] - The "Magnificent Seven" group of megacap stocks, including Nvidia, has had a mixed performance in 2026, with Nvidia being the best performer, up over 3%, while Microsoft has dropped nearly 20% [1] Group 3 - Despite the tech sector's struggles, it remains crucial for major benchmark indexes, holding a 33% weighting in the S&P 500, making it difficult for indexes to rise significantly without tech's support [1] - Other sectors such as materials and energy have performed well, with both climbing over 20% since the tech sector peaked in late October 2025 [1] - The overall market has remained relatively unchanged since late October, indicating that the tech sector's performance is pivotal for broader market movements [1]