Inflation Surprise and Geopolitical Tensions Spark Midday Sell-Off; Block Surges on AI-Driven Pivot

The U.S. stock market is facing significant downward pressure during midday trading this Friday, February 27, 2026. Investors are navigating a "perfect storm" of negative catalysts, ranging from a surprisingly hot wholesale inflation report to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The bearish momentum that began at the opening bell has intensified as the morning progressed, with all three major indexes trading deep in negative territory.Major Market Indexes and Midday MomentumAs of midday, th ...