The S&P 500 fell 0.43% to 6,939.03, while the Nasdaq Composite dropped 0.94% to 23,461.82, reflecting ongoing weaknesses in the tech and growth sectors. The Dow Jones Industrial Average also slipped, declining 0.36% to 48,892.47 as risk assets experienced a significant sell-off.
On a somber day for the markets, precious metals and financial stocks were among the hardest hit. Gold and silver experienced a historic crash, with silver losing more than 35% in intraday trading, marking its most significant daily fall on record. Gold futures, too, faced turbulence, plunging by 11% before a slight recovery at the day’s end. In a surprising twist, some retail and consumer staples stocks like Walmart (NASDAQ:WMT) and Coca Cola (NYSE:KO) showed resilience, managing small gains amidst the broader market distress.
The dollar rallied robustly today, contributing to the downward spiral of gold and silver prices. This shift comes on the heels of President Trump’s nomination of Kevin Warsh to lead the Federal Reserve. Analysts predict that Warsh, known for his calls for monetary change, is expected to take a less dovish approach to interest rates, further impacting market dynamics.
Despite the chaotic trading day, both gold and silver managed to finish the month in positive territory, buoyed by significant gains over the past year. Nonetheless, this abrupt pullback raises questions about sustainability in the precious metals market, particularly as they reached record highs earlier.
Meanwhile, AI skepticism continues to cast a shadow over the Nasdaq following a week marked by earnings reports from megacap tech companies. Health sector stocks are also under pressure due to recent government proposals aimed at capping Medicare Advantage rates, adding another layer of complexity to the current market landscape.
For investors who have ever felt they missed the opportunity to buy into the most successful stocks, there’s encouraging news. Analysts are currently issuing “Double Down” stock recommendations for companies they believe are on the verge of significant growth. Prominent examples include Nvidia, where a hypothetical $1,000 investment made back in 2009 would now translate to an astonishing $499,318. Another notable mention is Apple, with a past $1,000 investment made in 2008 potentially growing to $49,135. Netflix also showcases impressive growth, with $1,000 invested back in 2004 ballooning to $448,476.
Currently, investors can still catch a wave of opportunity as “Double Down” alerts are being issued for three promising companies, available to those who join the Stock Advisor program. Notably, there might not be another chance at such growth potential in the near future.
*Stock Advisor returns are calculated as of January 26, 2026.
Emma Newbery has positions in Apple. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Apple, Microsoft, and Walmart. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
