CNBC Business News Update Market Midday: Stocks Mixed & Flat, US Crude Oil Pops Higher, After Southwest Airlines Is Norwegian Cruise Line Next For Elliott? 2/17/26
Feb 17, 2026
Markets trade mixed with underlying mini corrections and notable movers. U.S.-Iran nuclear talks and tense rhetoric send U.S. crude prices higher. Corporate shakeups surface as a major hotel chairman retires amid controversy and a studio reportedly reopens sale talks. An activist firm may push for changes at a cruise line. Cultural celebrations and box office updates round out the report.
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Surface Calm Masks Mini Corrections
- Markets were mixed and largely flat despite underlying mini corrections across sectors.
- Citi's Drew Petted says the corrections feel contained even though the narrative is negative.
Geopolitics Still Moves Oil Prices
- U.S.-Iran nuclear talks and Strait of Hormuz threats drove a sharp crude oil reaction.
- Markets react to repeated geopolitical rhetoric but recall they've seen similar moves before.
Pritzker's Regret And Retirement
- Hyatt Hotels Chairman Thomas Pritzker is retiring after 20+ years.
- Pritzker expressed regret over his past connection with Jeffrey Epstein in his resignation letter.