US Bank Stocks Plunge Amid Recession Fears and AI Disruption Concerns

Shares of consumer lenders suffered a significant sell-off, ranking among the market's worst performers as economic uncertainty grows. American Express (AXP) was notably impacted, highlighting broader investor anxiety regarding credit stability in the current environment. The decline is primarily driven by mounting fears of an economic recession and its potential to trigger higher default rates. Furthermore, the disruptive potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has introduced new anxieties regarding the long-term viability of traditional banking models. Analysts suggest that consumer-focused institutions are particularly vulnerable to economic downturns and shifting credit cycles. This combination of macroeconomic headwinds and technological uncertainty continues to weigh heavily on sector valuations.