Stocks jumped in the afternoon session after a softer-than-expected inflation report hinted at potential Federal Reserve interest rate cuts. The September CPI showed a 3.0% year-over-year increase, slightly below the 3.1% forecast. This news eased price pressure fears, boosting bank stocks. The positive sentiment led to a market rally with S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq hitting record highs. Hilltop Holdings (HTH) shares reacted to the news, which could impact the regional banking sector. HTH is up 20.2% YTD, trading near its 52-week high. Thematic investing potential is highlighted, with a growth stock benefiting from AI available for free.

Read more at Barchart: The Bancorp, Seacoast Banking, OceanFirst Financial, Live Oak Bancshares, and Hilltop Holdings Stocks Trade Up, What You Need To Know