U.S. Stocks Drop on AI Disruption Fears: Nasdaq-100 -1.8% at Close

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite closed sharply lower on February 12, 2026, as investors reacted to heightened concerns over AI-driven disruptions in key sectors. The Nasdaq-100 fell 1.8% to 14,235.55, while the S&P 500 declined 1.2% to 4,892.50. Tech-heavy indices led the declines, with NVIDIA down 2.4% and AMZN off 1.8%. The Federal Reserve's recent statement on potential rate cuts by year-end and worries about job displacement in AI could weigh on earnings for the next few quarters. Goldman Sachs analysts note that volatility is likely to persist as companies reassess strategies and investments in AI.