A look back at markets in February when optimism over vaccination programmes helped spur gains for shares and commodities. : A look back at markets in February when optimism over vaccination programmes helped spur gains for shares and commodities. Please note any past performance mentioned is not a guide to future performance and may not be repeated. The sectors, securities, regions and countries shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not to be considered a recommendation to buy or sell. US equities survived a bout of turbulence to post gains in February.