**Global Market Brief – February 5, 2026** **Equities: Tech Volatility Diverges Markets** US markets are showing a sharp split in performance today. The **Dow Jones Industrial Average** remains resilient, climbing **0.53%** to **49,501** as investors rotate into traditional value sectors. In contrast, the broader **S&P 500** slipped **0.51%** to **6,882**, and the tech-heavy **Nasdaq Composite** fell **1.51%** to **22,904**, weighed down by a significant sell-off in growth stocks. **Sector Focus: AI Doubts Rattle Sentiment** Skepticism regarding the return on investment for massive AI capital expenditures is driving volatility. **Nvidia** declined **3.41%** and **Palantir** dropped **11.62%** as traders reassess valuations. However, pockets of strength remain; **Super Micro Computer Inc.** surged **13.78%**, decoupling from the broader semiconductor weakness. **Crypto: Bitcoin under Pressure** Digital assets are facing a steep correction. **Bitcoin** has retreated to approximately **$84,400**, shedding over **5%** in the last 24 hours. The decline coincides with a broader risk-off sentiment in equities and a wave of leveraged liquidations, dampening immediate speculative enthusiasm. **Commodities: Gold Rallies, Oil Stabilizes** Safe-haven assets are outperforming. **Gold** continues its historic run, breaking past the **$5,000** mark as volatility in the equity market drives demand for stability. In the energy sector, **Brent Crude** is trading around **$69.46** per barrel, balancing geopolitical tensions against demand forecasts. **Key Drivers** The primary market narrative is the scrutiny of "Big Tech" earnings. Results from **Alphabet** and **Microsoft** have intensified questions about the timeline for AI profitability versus soaring infrastructure costs. Investors are now closely watching upcoming economic data for clues on the Federal Reserve's next move regarding interest rates.