Nasdaq Futures Drop as AI Trade Falters and Crude Climbs

By EC Assets · Published 22 October 2026

United States equity index futures retreated on Thursday as renewed worries regarding artificial intelligence unsettled financial markets. Futures tied to the tech-heavy Nasdaq dropped by more than 1%, pointing to a sharp pullback across major equity benchmarks. At the same time, crude oil prices climbed amid escalating geopolitical tensions, with Brent crude surpassing $112 per barrel. Stocks were on track to slide throughout Thursday trading as the artificial-intelligence trade lost some of its recent momentum. With artificial-intelligence fears resurfacing, investors opted to take profit across technology shares. This profit-taking occurred even though the broader macroeconomic environment is looking good. In energy markets, crude oil advanced sharply alongside the retreat in equity contracts. Brent crude topped $112 per barrel due to intensifying Middle East worries. The rise in crude prices emerged as the United States and Israel reportedly weigh fresh strikes against Iran. The Thursday decline contrasted with market action on the anniversary of Black Monday, when United States stock index futures managed to bounce back. During that prior trading session, investors looked past volatility driven by artificial intelligence, allowing both Nasdaq and S&P futures to rise. The Nasdaq led market gains during that advance, while United States Treasury yields traded in a mixed fashion. The renewed downturn in technology futures reflects shifting sentiment around artificial intelligence, where momentum slowed despite a broader macroeconomic environment that remains positive. Meanwhile, the climb in Brent crude past $112 per barrel introduces additional commodity price pressure as Middle East risks expand. Energy markets face ongoing geopolitical catalysts as the United States and Israel reportedly weigh fresh military strikes against Iran. This article is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice.