Friday’s market outlook highlights a subdued open with futures slightly lower as traders await economic releases. U.S. markets show mixed signals: the S&P 500 modestly positive on the week but under technical pressure, the NASDAQ 100 on a weekly sell signal, and the VIX elevated, signaling continued caution. Commodities diverge, with crude oil slightly lower pre-market while gold and Bitcoin trade higher.
Canada’s TSX outperforms, driven by strong energy stocks and gains in gold equities. Select ARK ETFs have generated new buy signals with structured exit targets. Financials remain under pressure, while semiconductors and small caps hold buy signals. The Magnificent Seven show limited momentum, with Nvidia holding a buy signal and Tesla consolidating. Markets remain data-dependent heading into Friday’s open.
Stephen Whiteside
Friday, February 20, 2026
