US Stocks Decline on February 19, 2026 as Fed Minutes Point to Delayed Rate Cuts

On February 19, 2026, major U.S. stock indexes slipped, with the S&P 500, Dow Jones and Nasdaq all edging lower after Federal Reserve minutes signaled rate cuts are not imminent. Investors also reacted to Walmart's earnings beat but cautious profit outlook, while stronger oil prices and upcoming PCE and GDP data kept market sentiment restrained.