Markets Midday: Stocks Under Pressure, Jobless Claims Fall, 4-Year Milestone For LEI 8-20-2026

Summary

CNBC's midday markets update covers a down day for US stocks as rising crude oil and Treasury yields pressure major averages. Economic data showed jobless claims falling and the leading economic index positive for a six-month stretch. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant said the Treasury will expand buybacks of longer-dated securities to push yields lower. Walmart shares dropped sharply on disappointing comparable store sales.

• Stocks were under pressure as oil and Treasury yields rose.
• Jobless claims fell to 206,000, slightly below expectations.
• The leading economic index rose 0.2% and has been positive for six months for the first time in four years.
• Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant said longer-dated Treasury buybacks will increase and could exceed $4 billion per issue.
• Walmart shares fell about 10% on weaker than expected comparable store sales.
• The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq posted their fourth loss in five days.