Oil Prices Surge as US Stocks Decline Amid Iran Tensions

Feb 19, 2026

62 min

Feb 19, 2026 23:30

Oil prices spike, US stocks fall amid Iran tensions

## Rising Oil Prices

Oil prices have surged to their highest level in six months due to escalating tensions between the US and Iran. This increase follows comments from Iran's atomic energy chief, Mohammad Eslami, asserting Iran's right to nuclear enrichment. US President Donald Trump has hinted at potential military action after discussions in Geneva, further fueling market concerns.

## Impact on US Stock Market

The heightened geopolitical tensions have negatively impacted US stock markets. Early Thursday trading saw the Dow Jones Industrial Average drop by 0.6%, reaching 49,379.46. Similarly, the S&P 500 fell by 0.5% to 6,849.35, and the Nasdaq Composite Index decreased by 0.6% to 22,621.38.

## Walmart's Performance

Despite the overall market downturn, Walmart's shares rose by 1.7% following the release of strong financial results. However, the company's future forecasts did not meet analyst expectations. Walmart's stock initially dipped but recovered after executives highlighted their investments in artificial intelligence during a call with analysts.

## Broader Economic Context

In a broader economic context, the US trade deficit in goods reached a new record in 2025, despite the imposition of tariffs by President Trump during his first year back in office. This development adds another layer of complexity to the current economic landscape.

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