US Stocks Fall as Market Fear Index Spikes

RunWithRugs · 2026-03-09T23:52:36+00:00

US equity markets declined on Friday as investors reacted to new economic data, with the Dow, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 all posting losses. The Volatility Index spiked due to rising anxiety, amid concerns over elevated labor costs and job losses.

RunWithRugs

2026-03-09 23:52:36

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(MENAFN) US equity markets ended the week on a negative note Friday as investors digested new economic data and assessed potential impacts on interest rate policies.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.95%, losing 453.19 points to finish at 47,501.55. The Nasdaq Composite fell 1.59%, or 361.31 points, closing at 22,387.68, while the S&P 500 declined 1.33%, or 90.69 points, to 6,740.02.

The Volatility Index (VIX) surged 24.17% to 29.49, reflecting rising investor anxiety. Market participants focused on inflation data, particularly higher-than-expected labor costs, which suggested that borrowing rates could remain elevated for a longer period.

Official data showed that the US economy shed 92,000 jobs in February, adding to concerns over economic stability. Meanwhile, Brent crude futures surpassed $92 per barrel, the highest level since mid-2024, amid escalating Middle East tensions and fears of disruptions to global energy supplies.

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