US PPI Surge Triggers 600-Point Drop in Dow Jones as Inflation Fears Persist

US producer prices rose more than forecasted in January, signaling persistent inflationary pressures across the economy. The Producer Price Index (PPI) increased by 0.5%, marking its largest monthly gain since September. Excluding food and energy, the core gauge advanced at its fastest pace since July, further unsettling global investors. In response, the Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged over 600 points on Friday as markets recalibrated expectations for Federal Reserve policy. The hotter-than-expected data fuels concerns that the Fed may maintain elevated interest rates for a longer duration to combat inflation. This sell-off reflects a broader shift in sentiment across equity markets, while Treasury yields and the US Dollar saw upward pressure.