US inflation data fuelled optimism across markets, with softer-than-expected core inflation restoring hopes for rate cuts in the US this year. The ASX 200 surged 1.3%, marking its best day of the year, buoyed by US market gains and a strong local jobs report, albeit mostly part-time. Financials and tech stocks rebounded sharply after recent losses, while commodity prices rose on a weaker US dollar. Iron ore miners saw mixed performance, with Rio Tinto noting higher production costs but strong copper output. Buy-now-pay-later firm Zip also made gains amid lower US borrowing costs and positive broker sentiment. Looking ahead, key data from the US, China, and major corporate earnings could shape market movements into the week’s close.

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