Peakfolio Team
Mar 2, 2026
Between February 23 and March 2, U.S. equity markets declined as investors grappled with persistent trade tensions and softer economic data.
Selling pressure intensified as investors processed a combination of tariff escalation rhetoric and mixed economic signals. Major indexes declined meaningfully, with broad-based weakness across sectors reflecting diminished risk appetite. Consumer discretionary and technology led the move lower, while traditionally defensive areas offered only modest protection against the broader decline.
By the close of February, sentiment had shifted noticeably more defensive. Investors grew cautious about the near-term policy outlook, with concerns around tariffs and slowing consumer activity weighing on forward expectations. Markets entered March with a more guarded posture, and participants focused on upcoming data for signs of stabilization.