Stocks Ended Sharply Lower on Coronavirus Fears

U.S. stocks ended sharply lower on Thursday, as increasing alarm over the coronavirus’ relentless spread outside of China sparked another global sell-off in markets. The Dow Jones Industrial Average retreated 969.58 points, or 3.58%, to 26,121.28. The S&P 500 was down 106.18 points, or 3.39%, to 3,023.94. The Nasdaq Composite fell 279.49 points, or 3.10%, to 8,738.59.

Oil futures ended lower on Thursday, with the global benchmark posting its lowest finish since 2017. West Texas Intermediate crude for April delivery fell by 88 cents, or 1.9%, to settle at $45.90 a barrel. May Brent crude shed $1.14, or 2.2%, to end at $49.99 a barrel.