U.S. stock markets closed higher, driven by strong tech earnings and mild inflation data. Alphabet announced its first dividend and a $70 billion buyback, boosting its shares by 10% and its valuation above $2 trillion. The PCE price index rose to 2.7% in March. Asian markets also saw gains, while European markets were mixed. Commodities and U.S. futures indicated varied movements, with the yen surging against the dollar due to potential Japanese intervention.