Tech leads first half stock gains — but the biggest winners weren't in the U.S.

The technology sector has made a significant impact in the financial markets during the first half of 2026. While U.S. tech giants saw notable gains, especially despite a steep sell-off that occurred at the end of June, they were ultimately eclipsed by international stocks. According to MSCI's sector-specific indexes, the technology stocks from large and mid-cap emerging markets emerged as the standout performers, boasting an impressive gain of over 90%. In comparison, their European counterparts achieved a solid 44.8% increase, while the U.S. technology index trailed with a 19.4% rise. This trend of international stocks outperforming their U.S. equivalents was evident across various segments of the market. The pan-European Stoxx 600 Technology index surged by 23.4% from January to June, outpacing the S&P 500 Information Technology index, which posted a 19.4% increase. Additionally, the Nasdaq 100 index, known for its high-profile tech companies like Nvidia, Apple, Microsoft, and Alphabet, recorded a gain of 19.9% during the same period. As the market continues to evolve, investors are encouraged to monitor these developments closely for further updates.