S&P 500 Posts Worst First Quarter Since 2022 Amid Geopolitical and Market Turmoil

The S&P 500 ended the first quarter of 2026 with significant losses despite a late-day rally, marking its worst performance since 2022. Concerns over the Iran conflict, private-credit market issues, and the AI 'scare trade' contributed to the market's volatility.

• The S&P 500 had its worst first quarter since 2022 in 2026.
• A late-day rally failed to prevent the index from posting significant losses.
• The Iran conflict, private-credit concerns, and the AI 'scare trade' were key factors in the market's volatility.
• Investors are preparing for continued stock-market turbulence in the coming months.
• The market's performance highlights the impact of geopolitical and financial uncertainties on investor sentiment.