Global Market Update February 19, 2026 Asian equity markets extended their recovery for a second consecutive session today, bolstered by a strong rebound in **U.S. technology shares**. Regional sentiment was further supported by robust economic data, despite light trading volumes as markets in China and Hong Kong remain closed for the Lunar New Year. The **MSCI Asia Pacific Index** climbed **0.6%**, reversing a three-day slide. In Japan, the **Nikkei 225** showed resilience as investors shifted back into hardware and chip-making stocks, which are central to the global electronics supply chain. Tech Sector and AI Sentiment Investor confidence is stabilizing as markets reassess the long-term impact of artificial intelligence. While early February saw the **Nasdaq 100** dip due to concerns over high valuations, recent earnings reports have provided a necessary cushion. The **S&P 500** remains supported by an earnings cycle in expansion mode, with **Q4 2025** blended earnings growth reaching **13.2%**. Information technology revenues specifically surged **20.6%**, led by massive prints from **Apple ($143.76B)** and **Microsoft ($81.27B)**. Investors now view the recent tech sell-off as a temporary overreaction. However, the forward **P/E ratio** for the **S&P 500** stands at **21.5**, suggesting the margin for error remains slim as growth rates are expected to normalize throughout **2026**. Energy and Commodities Oil prices maintained their recent upward trajectory, marking the most significant gains since last October. **WTI Crude** is trading near **$63.66** per barrel, up **1.22%**, while **Brent Crude** sits at approximately **$68.47**. Supply risks are currently the primary driver of price action. Market participants are monitoring naval drills near the **Strait of Hormuz**, a critical transit point for global crude. This geopolitical tension has added a risk premium to prices, even as the **IEA** forecasts a potential supply surplus later this year. Global oil demand is projected to rise by **850,000 barrels per day** in **2026**, with growth concentrated almost entirely in non-OECD economies, particularly in Asia. Economic Outlook The **IMF** has revised its global growth projection for **2026** slightly upward to **3.3%**. This resilience is attributed to steady technology investment and private sector adaptability. In the United States, consumer liquidity is expected to receive a boost from tax refunds. Early **2026** data indicates average refunds are up **10.9%** to **$2,290**, which may serve as a catalyst for a consumer-led revival in the coming months. This [Global Market Update](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6KQYIW5XKo) provides deeper context on how enterprise technology and AI spending are shaping the current economic landscape. http://googleusercontent.com/youtube_content/0