Market Volatility Hits US Equities, Metals, and Crypto in Early February 2026

Sharp fluctuations affected multiple financial markets in the United States during the week ending February 7, 2026, as equities, metals, and cryptocurrencies experienced steep losses. These developments coincided with labor-market data indicating weaker economic conditions.

US equities saw substantial swings throughout the week, with a total market value reduction exceeding $1.5 trillion across various sectors. The volatility was not limited to stocks, as precious metals such as gold, silver, and copper also posted notable declines, displaying trading patterns similar to those seen in previous episodes of heightened market activity.

In the technology sector, software and momentum-driven stocks, particularly among large companies, underwent the most severe single-day downturn since the pandemic period. According to media analysis, three-quarters of software stocks reached oversold levels, reflecting pronounced downward momentum within this segment.

Cryptocurrency markets mirrored the turbulence in traditional assets. Bitcoin, along with equities tied to digital currencies, registered significant losses, with Bitcoin's price dropping below $70,000 during the week.

What the numbers show

• US equities lost over $1.5 trillion in market value during the week ending February 7, 2026
• Silver prices declined by as much as 17% amid cross-asset volatility
• US private sector job-cut announcements in January reached the highest level since 2009
• Bitcoin's value fell below $70,000 during the week
• Three-quarters of software stocks entered oversold territory

Labor-market reports released during this period pointed to weakening employment conditions in the US. Private sector job-cut announcements in January were at their highest since 2009, adding to concerns about the broader economic environment.

Despite the pronounced losses earlier in the week, the S&P 500 managed to recover by Friday, ending the week close to its starting level. This rebound followed a series of sharp declines that affected a wide range of asset classes.

Precious metals, including gold, silver, and copper, experienced sharp price drops, with silver seeing a decline of up to 17%. These moves occurred alongside the broader sell-off in equities and cryptocurrencies.

Market participants tracked these developments as part of a broader pattern of volatility across asset classes, with both traditional and digital assets affected by shifting economic data and trading momentum. The week’s activity highlighted the interconnected nature of modern financial markets during periods of stress.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.