U.S. consumer confidence has declined sharply, pointing to possible economic difficulties. Despite this, tech stocks led Wall Street indices to end higher. Analysts predict record-high profits, contrasting with gloomy economic forecasts. Global markets showed mixed reactions, with gains in some sectors and declines in others, influenced by trade tensions and upcoming fiscal updates. U.S. consumer confidence has declined sharply, pointing to possible economic difficulties. Despite this, tech stocks led Wall Street indices to end higher. Analysts predict record-high profits, contrasting with gloomy economic forecasts. Global markets showed mixed reactions, with gains in some sectors and declines in others, influenced by trade tensions and upcoming fiscal updates. Economic Times