Explainer: Why the U.S. stock market is tumbling in 2022 – Reuters.com

Explainer: Why the U.S. stock market is tumbling in 2022 – Reuters.com

NEW YORK, May 11 (Reuters) - The U.S. stock market is off to brutal start in 2022.

The S&P 500 (.SPX), which is widely considered to be the main benchmark for U.S. stock market performance, declined 13.3% through April, the steepest four-month drop to start any year since 1939. The index continues to fall in May and was down 16% year-to-date as of Tuesday's close, approaching the 20% threshold that some investors consider confirmation of a bear market.

For the Nasdaq Composite (.IXIC), which is heavier on technology shares, the decline has been more severe, falling some 25% so far this year.