<h1>Benchmark indices jump 0.7% as softer US inflation and US-China trade hopes fuel rate cut bets; FIIs buy</h1> Benchmark equity indices surged, with the primary index climbing roughly 0.7% and the broader index surpassing a key round level after global markets rallied on softer US inflation data and hopes for a US-China trade agreement, spurring expectations of central bank rate cuts. Foreign institutional investors provided net purchases, and sectoral performance was mixed, with public-sector banks outperforming while defence and media lagged. Market commentary from a research head at an investment firm attributed gains to easing global headwinds and domestic reforms supporting earnings. Oil prices edged lower; recent prior-session declines partially reversed.