Market Wrap / trade hopes buoy ASX

The S&P/ASX 200 tracked Wall Street gains, boosted by cooling US inflation data, fostering rate cut bets. The local markets ended 0.41% higher to 9,055.60 points. The banks had a positive session, with CBA 0.29% higher this Monday. And netwealth closed fairly flat as it asked the Federal Government for assistance to repay customers who lost around $100-million in the collapse of the First Guardian retirement scheme.The mining sector also closed in the green, although it provided a more contrasted picture. Some gold miners gave ground, as shown by Ramelius Resources, 6.82% lower with its gold production dropping over the September quarter. Meanwhile, market heavy-weight Rio Tinto edged 1.1% higher on a partnership with a Chinese state company to trial a battery swap electric haul truck technology.In copper, Sandfire Resources has reaffirmed its FY26 production guidance, and the share price gained 3.14% today.Tonight, the RBA Governor will address the Australian Business Economists annual dinner. And tomorrow, CSL will host its AGM, while Liontown Resources is releasing its September quarter report.