Friday, February 20, 2026-U.S. equity markets moved higher as investors prepared for the release of the latest Federal Reserve meeting minutes, seeking insight into potential interest rate moves and monetary policy direction.
Major indexes, including the S&P 500 and Nasdaq, showed modest gains, supported by a rally in technology stocks. Traders are watching closely for signals on whether the central bank will maintain its current rate stance or signal future adjustments amid ongoing inflation concerns.
Nvidia shares were among the top performers, climbing on strong investor sentiment fueled by better-than-expected earnings guidance and optimism about continued demand for its AI and semiconductor products. Analysts suggest that Nvidia’s performance is reinforcing confidence in the broader tech sector, lifting market sentiment and encouraging buying across related stocks.
Market participants are approaching the upcoming Fed minutes with caution, aware that any hawkish language could trigger volatility. Meanwhile, sectors such as consumer discretionary and industrials also contributed to the upward momentum, as investors balanced concerns over higher borrowing costs with corporate earnings growth.
The combination of strong individual stock performance and cautious optimism about policy is helping markets sustain their upward trend ahead of the Fed’s detailed report.
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