Hammering is an intense market sell-off that happens suddenly with little warning. It is a rapid decline in the prices of stocks, a specific sector, or even the overall markets that is often triggered by an unexpected and disruptive event, otherwise known as an asteroid event. The event can be anything from a natural disaster to a political or economic upheaval, or even the breaking of a company news story. The sell-off affects one or several stock prices due to investors' reaction to the event, making them panic and sell their finances.

In markets where there are no stop-loss rules, the selling can become heavy and chaotic. Such selling causes further declines in the markets due to volatile trading, which is often seen when a stock gets hammered. As investors react to the news and drop out of the market, this leads to further drops in stock prices as well as a decline in overall market values.

Since the effects of a hammering tend to be sudden and extreme, some stocks and sectors are more vulnerable to asteroid events than others. The high volatility of certain stocks combined with poor news can make them particularly susceptible to hammering. This trend has been particularly notable in technology sectors, where stocks can rapidly decline following news of product delays, disappointing earnings, and other issues related to the sector.

The consequences of a hammering can include a decline in the overall market, a fall in market sentiment, and a drop in confidence among investors. In extreme cases, it can lead to a loss in trust in companies, large and small, as well as a decline in economic activity.

Though hammering can sometimes be seen as a negative event, it also presents an opportunity for investors to take advantage of bargain prices. Since the sell-off is often an emotional reaction rather than a smart financial decision, investors who do their research and act quickly on the market declines can sometimes purchase stocks and make a long-term gain.

Overall, hammering can be a difficult and disruptive event for the markets and for the people who invest in them. It is important for investors to be aware of the risks it can pose and its potential effects on the markets and their portfolios. It is also necessary to remember that while hammering can be a sign of a market downturn, it also presents an opportunity for investors who are willing to do their research and act quickly.