U.S. Stocks Decline in February Amid AI, Tariff, and Geopolitical Concerns

U.S. stocks experienced significant declines in February, marking their largest monthly drop in a year amid concerns over artificial intelligence costs, renewed tariff uncertainties, and geopolitical tensions. Financial and tech sectors were notably affected, with financial stocks falling due to potential losses linked to the collapse of UK mortgage provider Market Financial Solutions Ltd. Despite the downturn, strong corporate earnings in the fourth quarter were highlighted as a positive factor for long-term gains.