(Feb 20): Heightened geopolitical worries sent stocks lower while extending a surge in oil and keeping a lid on bonds amid perceived inflation risks. Walmart Inc slid on a conservative outlook, but the giant retailer’s comparable sales in the US beat expectations. Iran is a “hot spot” right now even as officials from both sides engage in “good talks”, Trump said. A potential war would put flows at risk from a region that pumps about a third of the world’s oil. “Crude oil prices are rising on the anticipation of possible military action in Iran,” said Louis Navellier at Navellier & Associates.

Source: The Edge Markets February 19, 2026 23:31 UTC