<h1>Markets near record highs after semiconductor investment and rate cut; techs rally while consumer brands face backlash and warnings</h1> U.S. equity markets rose toward record highs after a major investment and collaboration between two semiconductor firms and a central bank interest-rate cut, boosting technology shares while some consumer-facing firms warned of weaker sales after brand-change backlash. Regulators and policymakers were highlighted: the communications regulator signaled potential accountability for a broadcaster and network over controversial on-air remarks, and the central bank's revised rate projections-which forecast further cuts-were emphasized as influential but nonbinding. Global indices showed mixed responses to regional central-bank meetings and economic data, with attendant market volatility and reputational, regulatory, and disclosure risks for affected firms.