US Futures Edge Higher as Investors Cope with AI Disruption Fears

US stock futures rose slightly on February 16, 2026, as investors sought to stabilize after two consecutive weeks of declines amid growing concerns over AI disruption. S&P 500 futures (ES=F) gained 0.2%, Dow futures (YM=F) climbed 0.2%, while Nasdaq 100 futures (NQ=F) remained near unchanged. Markets were closed on February 15 for Presidents Day. The S&P 500 (^GSPC) and Dow (^DJI) each fell over 1% last week, with the Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) dropping more than 2%—its fifth straight weekly loss and longest streak since 2022. The Dow and S&P 500 have declined in four of the past five weeks. Anxiety over AI's potential to disrupt wealth management, transportation, and logistics has overshadowed the January CPI report, which came in below expectations. Investors await the February 20 PCE data, Fed minutes on February 18, and scrutiny of a rumored "loyalty pledge" signed by Trump's nominee for Fed chair, Kevin Warsh. Walmart (WMT), DoorDash (DASH), and Molson Coors (TAP) are scheduled to report earnings this week.