The DAX 40 climbed 0.5% on Wednesday to a new high above 26,500, stretching its advance to a fifth straight session as investors balanced economic data, developments in the Middle East and corporate earnings. Sentiment improved after the latest U.S. inflation readings matched expectations, with headline inflation easing to 3.4% in July and core inflation (excluding more volatile items) slowing to 2.5% from 2.6%, reducing expectations for further Fed rate hikes. Technology stocks led the move, with Infineon Technologies up 3.8% after stronger-than-expected earnings from U.S. companies CoreWeave and Super Micro Computer. Industrial shares also gained, led by Rheinmetall at 4.5%, while Siemens Energy rose 4% after wind turbine maker Vestas upgraded its outlook.