Taiwanese company 昀光科技 to complete next-generation AI glasses prototype in December
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
昀光科技 Chairman Pan Chung-kuang said the company expects to complete a prototype of its next-generation AI glasses in December. The product will use silicon-based OLED microdisplay technology, offering color display, lower costs and greater eye comfort.
Facts
Began developing silicon-based OLED microdisplay screens (Micro OLED), also known as third-generation screens, 10 years ago
Next-generation AI glasses prototype expected to be ready in December
Japan's population falls by more than 3.17 million in 5 years; foreign workforce hits record high
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japan's 2025 census showed that the total population fell by more than 3.17 million from 2020 to just over 122.97 million, marking the third population decline on record. Meanwhile, the foreign-national population hit a record of more than 3.84 million, and the number of residents with specified skilled worker status also rose to more than 440,000, reflecting changes in the labor force structure.
U.S.-Canada trade war escalates as ban on Canadian alcohol and other goods entering U.S. takes effect
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The United States has imposed new import bans on Canada covering various alcoholic beverages, whey protein and some heavy motorcycles, in response to Canada's retaliatory tariffs on about US$20 billion worth of U.S. exports.
French high school students protest resource shortages and excessive class hours; schools blocked, clashes with police
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
French high school students, dissatisfied with resource shortages, excessive class hours and overcrowded classes, have staged protests and blocked schools in cities across the country since last week, with clashes breaking out between police and students at some campuses. Meanwhile, several unions have called nationwide demonstrations and strikes against Prime Minister Lecornu's budget-cutting plan.
Facts
About 10 schools were blocked
About 30 students confronted police
About 80 students gathered
Heading toward a wall of economic recession at 200 kilometers per hour
Daily Cash 539 draw No. 115236 has 2 top-prize winners
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Daily Cash 539 draw No. 115236 was held, with 2 top-prize winners receiving NT$8 million each. There were also 183 second-prize winners, 40 first-prize winners in the 3-digit lottery and 4 first-prize winners in the 4-digit lottery.
Documentary 'Island Builders: A Century's Gamble' screens in 吉隆坡, deepening industry and talent exchange
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The documentary 'Island Builders: A Century's Gamble' screened in 吉隆坡. 馬來西亞台灣商會聯合總會 and Taiwan's representative in 馬來西亞 hope the screening will deepen exchanges in the semiconductor industry, technology and talent between 台灣 and 馬來西亞.
Estonia accuses Russia of deliberate sabotage; EU and NATO voice support
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Estonia accused Russia of planning an arson attack on defense company 米爾雷姆機器人公司. EU and NATO leaders expressed support for Estonia and Ukraine, while the Kremlin denied the accusation.
Facts
The arson attack on Aug. 15
Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022
9 winning NT$10 million uniform-invoice prizes issued at 4 major retail outlets; one winner spent NT$10 on a drink
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The NT$10 million special prize for the 115 July-August uniform-invoice period was drawn on the 25th. Four major retail outlets (統一超商, FamilyMart, 萊爾富 and PX Mart) issued a total of 9 NT$10 million prizes. One consumer won the prize after spending just NT$10 on a drink.
Facts
A total of 9 NT$10 million special prizes were issued
Japanese boy band JO1 targets U.S. after 7 years since debut; North American tour of 5 cities kicks off
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japanese boy band JO1 officially entered the U.S. market 7 years after its debut, holding a U.S. debut announcement ceremony in Tokyo. The group announced that it will release its U.S. debut EP 'ANIMAL' on Oct. 2 and embark on its first North American tour across 5 cities.
5 vehicles collide on the Xincheng embankment road in Xinzhuang, New Taipei; 7 injured, 4 taken to hospital
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A collision involving 5 vehicles occurred tonight on the Xincheng embankment road in Xinzhuang District, New Taipei City, leaving 7 people injured, 4 of whom were taken to hospital. Police are investigating to determine responsibility.
More convenient exercise options across Taipei and New Taipei; cross-city passes to be piloted at 25 venues in October
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台北市體育局 announced that a cross-city sports cooperation program between Taipei and New Taipei will be piloted starting Oct. 1, allowing Taipei residents to redeem tickets with U coins for use at 25 venues across the 2 cities.
Facts
Starting October 1
To be piloted for 1 month
100 U coins
NT$100
A total of 25 venues
9 venues in Taipei City
16 venues in New Taipei City
5 U points
NT$100 discount coupon for sports venues in Taipei and New Taipei
The dispute between 台電 and offshore wind Phase 2 contractor 富崴能源 is escalating. 富崴控 alleges 台電 is withholding nearly 6 billion yuan in performance bond and retention payments. 台電 denies the claim, saying it is illegal to demand a refund before the project is completed, and accuses 富崴能源 of mortgaging turbines whose ownership had already been transferred to its parent company, 森崴.
Facts
Performance bond: 1.62 billion yuan
Construction retention payments: 4.28 billion yuan
劉承佑 and 李宗賢 deliver timely hits with the bases loaded as 悍將 take first win in minor-league championship series
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The CPBL minor-league championship series got underway, with 富邦悍將 beating 台鋼雄鷹 9-4 on timely bases-loaded hits by 劉承佑 and 李宗賢 to take the opening game.
New Taipei girl paraded with placard bearing obscene words; father suspected of violating protection order, prosecutors seek detention without visitation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A girl was paraded with a placard bearing obscene words in Sanchong, New Taipei City. Police arrested her father on suspicion of violating a protection order. After questioning him, prosecutors sought his detention and a ban on visits. The girl has been placed in emergency care by the Social Affairs Bureau.
3 Italian groups cap fuel prices, drawing consumers and protests from small fuel retailers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
To ease soaring fuel prices, Italy's 埃尼 (Eni) Group was first to set a price cap, followed by Azerbaijan's SOCAR and Kuwait's Q8. The move drew crowds of consumers to gas stations and protests from small independent retailers over unfair competition.
Facts
An average of 0.2 euros more per liter
About NT$7.5
Gasoline at 1.99 euros per liter
About NT$72
Diesel at 2.19 euros per liter
Will join the price-cap initiative starting October 1
Set a price cap of 1.99 euros
Set a price cap of 1.99 euros in 2023
In 2025, the French Competition Authority accused it of deliberate monopolization
and imposed a hefty fine of nearly 200 million euros
Malaysia has begun the first phase of an operation to repatriate about 1,500 Myanmar nationals. The UN (聯合國) refugee agency (UNHCR) voiced concern, saying conditions in Myanmar do not allow for a safe, dignified and sustainable return.
Facts
Repatriation of about 1,500 Myanmar nationals
5,000 Myanmar nationals were "voluntarily" repatriated from detention centers
The winning numbers for Taiwan Lottery 539 draw No. 115236 are 13, 28, 06, 26 and 17; the 3-Star winning number is 891, and the 4-Star winning number is 2946.
Indonesia tightens management of natural resource exports; single-window system to take effect next year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Indonesian government is strengthening oversight of natural resource exports through 達南塔拉資源公司 (DSI). A single-window system is expected to be fully implemented next January. During the current transition period, more than 6,500 documents have been analyzed, involving over US$14 billion.
“Shark-chasing” craze sweeps South Korea as nearly 610,000 flock to Busan to see lost shortfin mako
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Nearly 610,000 people have flocked to a waterfront park in Busan, South Korea, to see “Little North Port,” a shortfin mako that strayed off course. Repeated attempts by authorities to guide it back to the sea have failed, and they are expected to resume the effort in the coming days with a specially designed net.
Facts
Nearly 610,000 visitors
3.5 meters long
607,000 people went to the waterway's edge
A total of 483,000 people flocked there over 4 days
The winning numbers for tonight's Taiwan Lottery Grand Lotto draw No. 115092 are 02, 04, 38, 01, 30 and 13, with 27 as the special number. The Mid-Autumn bonus numbers were also announced.
亞運 shooting silver for 楊昆弼 in men's trap; boxer 陳念琴 reaches gold-medal bout for first time
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At the Nagoya Asian Games, 楊昆弼 won silver in shooting's men's trap and boxer 陳念琴 reached the gold-medal bout for the first time. 施劉俐伶 took silver in grappling, while the women's team sprint in cycling won bronze.
Hurricane Polo makes landfall in Mexico; seawater floods streets, schools close
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Hurricane Polo made landfall on Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, causing power outages, flooding and seawater to surge inland. Mexico’s military deployed nearly 7,000 troops in response, while the state of Baja California Sur announced school closures and opened about 169 shelters. The 美國國家颶風中心 said wind speeds reached 175 kilometers per hour, while meteorologists also monitored Tropical Storm Rachel.
Chen Yi-chun’s campaign ad misuses party emblem; 民進黨 Taipei City chapter sends formal notice
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 民進黨 Taipei City chapter accused independent city council candidate Chen Yi-chun of misusing the party emblem in campaign advertisements. It has sent a formal notice demanding that she stop and remove the promotional materials.
Facts
Suspended for 2 years and 6 months
On September 23, the 民進黨 Central Review Committee expelled her
Bonnie Glaser: Trump-Xi meeting leaves major structural issues unresolved, giving Beijing time to prepare for long-term competition
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. scholar Bonnie Glaser said the Trump-Xi meeting paved the way for limited cooperation on issues including trade and artificial intelligence and established communication channels, but failed to resolve major structural issues in U.S.-China relations. She said the summit had strategic value for Xi Jinping, giving Beijing time to develop its economic, technological and military capabilities for long-term competition. The two sides also agreed to meet again at the APEC and G20 summits in 2027.
Facts
China pledged to purchase 200 aircraft
Import at least 10 million metric tons of U.S. coal annually
Russian drones pound Kyiv; Ukraine’s National Academy of Sciences engulfed in flames
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Russian drones and missiles pounded Kyiv, setting fire to the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and causing casualties. Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia and other areas were also attacked, with civilians killed and injured. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on Western allies to step up military aid, while Defense Minister Hemara canceled an overseas trip amid the tense situation.
Accountants form support group; Su Chiao-hui hopes professionals from all fields will help govern the city
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Su Chiao-hui, the 民進黨 candidate for New Taipei City mayor, has formed an Accountants Support Group, seeking to bring together professionals from various fields to participate in city governance. Her proposals include using AI to reduce administrative workloads and inviting accountants to serve on a professional advisory team.
Facts
New Taipei has nearly 230,000 companies and businesses
Each of New Taipei’s 29 districts has its own culture
Dispute over 台電 Phase 2 project escalates; 富崴 alleges nearly NT$6 billion withheld and seeks bankruptcy
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A dispute over 台電’s offshore wind power Phase 2 project has escalated, with contractor 富崴能源 accusing 台電 of withholding nearly NT$6 billion in deposits and retention payments and of transferring ownership of wind turbines without consent before sending them offshore for construction. 富崴 said it had reported the matter to police to seek accountability. Its parent company 森崴能源 announced today that its board had resolved to petition a court to declare 富崴 bankrupt.
Facts
Nearly NT$6 billion
Performance bond: 1.62 billion yuan
Construction retention payments: 4.28 billion yuan
Project costs of NT$55.862 billion
As much as 96% of the core onshore and offshore foundation work
Boosted by capital markets, 壽險業 posts record-high profits for August and first 8 months of the year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Data released by the 金管會 showed that 壽險業 posted record-high profits for August and the first 8 months of the year, while net worth also reached a record high. 產險業 likewise reported strong profits and net worth.
Facts
壽險業 posted profits of NT$61.7 billion in August
Profits reached NT$339.4 billion in the first 8 months
Original壽險業8月底淨值達4兆3988億元
產險業’s net worth reached NT$206.9 billion
Taiwan stocks rose 6.98% in August
產險業 posted pre-tax earnings of NT$7.5 billion in August
Pre-tax earnings reached NT$41.3 billion in the first 8 months
The New Taiwan dollar appreciated 1.98% against the U.S. dollar in August
The hedging ratio fell to a record low of 41.59% at the end of August
農糧署 launches 4 themed tours combining farm experiences to showcase Hualien’s organic local flavors
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
農糧署’s Eastern Region Branch has launched 4 Hualien organic-themed tours that combine farm experiences, in partnership with 19 organic and eco-friendly brands and 6 lodging providers. Promotional prices start at NT$1,500 per person.
Facts
4 themed tours combining farm experiences
19 organic and eco-friendly brands
6 lodging providers
Limited to 14 people per tour
Starting at NT$1,500 per person
Organic and eco-friendly farmland in Yilan, Hualien and Taitung spans more than 8,100 hectares
U.S. stocks opened higher on Tuesday as oil prices and Treasury yields retreated, lifting the S&P 500 and Nasdaq. Details of Anthropic’s IPO boosted tech stocks, but markets are awaiting employment data and AI events.
Facts
U.S. stocks opened higher on Tuesday as oil prices and U.S. Treasury yields retreated
Media reveal details of Anthropic’s initial public offering (IPO)
The U.S. 10-year Treasury yield fell 2 basis points
超微 acquires AI company World Labs for US$8.2 billion
Goldman Sachs forecasts a 12-month target of 8,700 for the S&P 500
CarMax reports second-quarter earnings of US$1.16 per share and revenue of US$7.88 billion
輝達’s profits surge, but its valuation lags behind! What is Wall Street worried about behind its 14.5-times price-to-earnings ratio?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
輝達 announced an additional US$150 billion in share buybacks, with its forward price-to-earnings ratio estimated at just 14.5, the lowest level in nearly a decade. Jensen Huang believes the stock is undervalued, but the market is concerned that its rapid growth may not last.
Facts
Nvidia adds $150 billion to its share buyback authorization, a company record.
Nvidia is forecast to trade at just 14.5 times earnings for fiscal 2028.
Nvidia's market capitalization has surpassed $5.5 trillion, making it the world's most valuable company.
Nvidia shares have risen 23% this year, outperforming the Nasdaq index.
Analysts on average forecast net income will approach $385 billion in fiscal 2028, up 60% year over year.
At a 高盛 conference, Jensen Huang said the market “misunderstands” Nvidia, calling it the world's first and only stock that combines growth and value.
蘋果, Alphabet, 微軟 and 亞馬遜 are forecast to have price-to-earnings ratios of 35.5, 22.6, 21.7 and 23.2 times, respectively, all higher than Nvidia's.
OpenAI releases AI training safety guidelines: halt training if it goes off track; senior executives have veto power
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
OpenAI has announced AI training safety guidelines requiring safety cases to be completed before training. Senior executives have veto power, training automatically pauses if alerts go unaddressed, and the guidelines have been made public for feedback.
Facts
OpenAI announces safety guidelines for reinforcement learning training of frontier AI
Senior management members have the power to veto training
If a high-priority safety alert arises during training and is not addressed within the stipulated time, the relevant training task must be automatically paused
Safety case documents must cover 3 core areas: alignment training, sandbox isolation and real-time monitoring
After the safety case is completed, another team member must write a “dissent report”
Each review member has independent veto power and can halt the relevant training
OpenAI requires the findings of an investigation, a postmortem report and operational improvement measures to be publicly disclosed once the investigation is complete
Science park revenue in H1 rose 29.27% year over year to a record for the same period. National Science and Technology Council: AI and cloud demand are growing explosively
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The National Science and Technology Council announced that science park revenue reached NT$3.54 trillion in the first half of 2026, up 29.27% year over year and a record for the same period. All 6 major industries grew, benefiting from surging demand for AI and high-performance computing, with the computer and peripherals industry leading with growth of 82.49%.
Facts
Science park revenue reached NT$3.54 trillion in the first half of 2026, up 29.27% year over year and a record for the same period.
Hsinchu Science Park revenue reached NT$1.12 trillion in the first half of 2026, up 36.03% year over year.
Central Taiwan Science Park revenue reached NT$0.65 trillion in the first half of 2026, up 20.63% year over year.
Southern Taiwan Science Park revenue reached NT$1.77 trillion in the first half of 2026, up 28.57% year over year.
Integrated circuit industry revenue rose 29.57% year over year.
Computer and peripherals industry revenue rose 82.49% year over year.
Precision machinery industry revenue rose 37.65% year over year.
Biotechnology industry revenue rose 17.44% year over year.
McDonald's uses AI to generate “optimal pricing” for U.S. stores, raising franchisee and regulatory concerns
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
McDonald's has introduced an AI pricing system that analyzes transactions at stores across the U.S. and competitors' prices to generate optimal local pricing, but the move has angered franchisees and raised antitrust concerns.
Facts
McDonald's is accelerating its adoption of artificial intelligence and machine-learning algorithms to analyze millions of daily transactions at nearly 14,000 stores across the U.S.
In Fresno, California, 2 company-owned stores just 2 miles apart charge $5.69 and $6.89, respectively, for the same Big Mac, a price difference of 21%.
McDonald's said in an official statement that the system is only “a tool to provide franchisees with guidance, not a mandate.”
Former franchisee Karen King said that deviating from the suggested prices would prompt a call of concern from senior headquarters executives.
Connecticut franchisee George Michell sued McDonald's over disputes including the system's recommendation to price a Big Mac meal as high as $18.
Former U.S. Federal Trade Commission commissioner William Kovacic said the disclaimer language in McDonald's pricing portal terms “amounts to an admission that potential problems exist.”
More than shopping help! Meta's Muse targets small businesses and can even help find customers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Meta is expanding the use of its AI agent Muse with the launch of Muse for Small Business, which integrates multiple business tools to help small businesses manage operations and find customers. It offers free and subscription plans. Muse recently topped the free app rankings in the U.S. and Canada, with impressive download figures.
Facts
Meta launches Muse for Small Business
Muse for Small Business integrates tools including Shopify, Intuit's QuickBooks, Stripe and Canva
Muse can connect to dozens of business tools and use a company's brand data, online store, accounting and customer records to carry out tasks
Muse will not publish content, send messages or make purchases without user approval
Most Muse features are free to use, and Meta will offer subscription plans to users who need additional features
Muse has topped the free app rankings in the U.S. and Canada in recent weeks
Muse recorded about 2.8 million downloads in its first 2 weeks after launch
U.S. stocks flash “overvaluation” warning! S&P 500 breadth shrinks sharply as markets face bond-market storm
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
BTIG technical strategist Jonathan Krinsky warned that the S&P 500 is near a record high, but only about 47.8% of its constituents are above their 200-day moving average, with internal divergence approaching levels seen during the dot-com bubble. The New York Stock Exchange has gone 213 trading days without a panic day, and after an extended period of market rotation, the risk of a catch-up decline is rising. In the bond market, global stocks will come under pressure if the 10-year Treasury yield breaks the 4.72% threshold. August PCE and September nonfarm data are due this week; if the data come in hot, the likelihood of a Fed rate hike in October will be revised higher.
Facts
Only about 47.8% of S&P 500 constituents are above their 200-day moving average, even as the index nears a 52-week high
Over the past 25 years, the combination of an index near a 52-week high with fewer than half of stocks above their 200-day moving average has occurred on only 25 trading days, all during the 1998-to-2000 dot-com bubble
The New York Stock Exchange has gone 213 trading days without a panic day, defined as a session when declining volume exceeds 80%; the average is about 21 times in a typical year
The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index is about 14% below its June high, while only a few AI leaders are near their highs
If the 12-month average of the 10-year Treasury yield continues to rise and breaks the threshold of about 4.72%, the likelihood of further pressure on global stocks will increase
Taipei City leads 12 Taiwanese companies to Singapore Tech Week to showcase AI integration capabilities and pursue Southeast Asian opportunities
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The Taipei City Department of Economic Development led 12 Taiwanese companies to Singapore Tech Week 2026, setting up a Taipei Pavilion to showcase AI and smart solutions and expand into Southeast Asian markets.
Facts
The Taipei City Department of Economic Development is participating in Singapore Tech Week 2026 for the 2nd year in a row.
The Taipei City Department of Economic Development is leading 12 Taipei technology companies in setting up a “Taipei Pavilion.”
Singapore Tech Week 2026 takes place on Sept. 29 and 30.
Taiwan-Singapore merchandise trade totaled about 170 billion Singapore dollars in 2025 (about 131 billion U.S. dollars).
Taiwan is Singapore's largest merchandise trading partner.
Taiwan's first participation in Singapore Tech Week in 2025 generated about $25 million in potential business opportunities.
Raw material prices continue to rise, but downstream demand remains weak; 豐興 holds rebar prices steady
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
豐興 Steel announced its prices for the week today. With downstream demand weak, it held both scrap purchase prices and rebar prices steady, even as international raw material prices continued to rise.
Facts
豐興 held its scrap purchase prices steady this week
豐興 held its rebar prices steady this week
Japan's H2 scrap prices rose $5 this week to $363 per metric ton
U.S. containerized scrap prices rose $4 this week to $348 per metric ton
Australian iron ore fell from $98.2 to $95.85 per metric ton
豐興 scrap steel purchase price: NT$9,800 per metric ton
豐興 rebar base price: NT$18,300 per metric ton
豐興 keeps structural steel base price at NT$25,000 per metric ton
Foreign investors continue selling after the holiday, offloading NT$63.2 billion; massive selling of Yuanta Taiwan Top 50 and 00406A, with both exceeding 60,000 lots, the most
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Taiwan stocks plunged 392.64 points on the first day after the long holiday, as foreign investors recorded net sales of NT$63.201 billion, heavily selling Yuanta Taiwan 50 and CTBC Taiwan High Dividend. The three major institutional investors posted combined net sales of NT$78.187 billion. Institutions said the market has shifted to short-term consolidation and a retest of lower levels.
Facts
Foreign investors recorded net sales of NT$63.201 billion in a single day, extending their selling streak to 2 sessions.
Foreign investors heavily sold 68,000 lots of Yuanta Taiwan 50 (0050-TW) and 62,000 lots of CTBC Taiwan High Dividend (00406A-TW).
Taiwan stocks closed down 392.64 points today, a decline of 0.82%, at 47,631.96 points.
The three major institutional investors recorded combined net sales of NT$78.187 billion.
Foreign investors’ net short futures positions increased to 79,000 contracts.
Investment trusts recorded their largest net purchase today in 聯電, at 9,537 lots.
富崴 clashes with Taipower! Taipower issues 3-point clarification: no payments overdue; alleges wind turbines were illegally mortgaged to parent company 森崴
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Taipower issued a 3-point clarification over a performance dispute with 富崴公司, the contractor for the second phase of an offshore wind power project. It said payments had never been delayed, 富崴公司 obstructed construction, and wind turbines were illegally mortgaged.
Facts
Taipower has paid 富崴公司 more than nine-tenths of the project costs (nine-tenths for equipment and nine-and-a-half tenths for installation).
富崴公司 twice proactively asked Taipower to help take over the project, on June 3 and June 27.
富崴公司 asked the third-party unit MWS not to issue the Certificate of Approval (COA) required for marine engineering work.
On August 24, Taipower formally notified 富崴 that it would take over ownership of the wind turbines and subsequent installation work.
Tokyo has seen rain for 34 consecutive days, the longest such stretch since records began in 1886, adding to inflationary pressure
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Tokyo has seen rain for 34 consecutive days, breaking the record dating back to 1886 and damaging agriculture, sending vegetable prices soaring and adding to inflationary pressure.
Facts
Rain has persisted in central Tokyo since August 27 this year. As of September 29, the city had recorded rainfall for 34 consecutive days, officially breaking the longest-run record since recordkeeping began in 1886.
The stalled autumn rain front and a succession of approaching typhoons have caused accumulated rainfall to surge, while sunshine has been severely limited.
Rice growth in the plains of Gunma Prefecture is about 5 days behind previous years.
Lettuce prices have surged 86% from last year, while spinach prices have risen 65%.
September rainfall on the Pacific coast of eastern Japan reached a record high since statistics began in 1946.
禾伸堂 reports unaudited August net profit up 285% year on year, EPS of NT$1.33; nearly 1 share of par value earned in the first 8 months
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
禾伸堂 announced unaudited after-tax net profit of NT$220 million for August, up 285% year on year, with earnings per share of NT$1.33. Earnings per share for the first 8 months totaled NT$9.45. Strong demand for AI servers has lifted shipments of high-end MLCCs, with revenue up 33.2% year on year. 輝達’s Vera Rubin platform is expected to begin shipping in the fourth quarter, with a more pronounced contribution expected next year. The company is actively expanding capacity.
Facts
禾伸堂 reported unaudited August after-tax net profit of NT$220 million, up 285% year on year, with earnings per share of NT$1.33.
禾伸堂’s after-tax net profit for the first 8 months totaled about NT$1.567 billion, with earnings per share of about NT$9.45.
禾伸堂’s August revenue was NT$1.439 billion, up 33.2% year on year.
禾伸堂’s revenue for the first 8 months totaled NT$10.656 billion, up 20.4% year on year.
Power MLCCs for 輝達’s next-generation AI server platform, Vera Rubin, are expected to begin shipping in the fourth quarter.
禾伸堂 is spending NT$812 million to purchase additional equipment from Japanese passive-component inspection equipment maker ALPHADESIGN.
禾伸堂 is spending NT$440 million to buy land in Longtan, Taoyuan.
禾伸堂 estimates that capacity will increase by 2 to 3 tenths this year and by another 3 to 4 tenths next year.
UPS and TikTok Shop have signed an exclusive agreement to offer packaging-free, label-free returns, processing them through nearly 10,000 Happy Returns locations as they target the returns management market.
Facts
UPS and TikTok Shop have signed an exclusive agreement to provide packaging-free, label-free returns for TikTok Shop’s US seller network.
Returns cost an average of 27% of an item’s sale price.
Retail returns are expected to total about US$850 billion in 2025.
The return rate for online purchases is close to 20%.
TikTok Shop entered the US market in September 2023.
Happy Returns uses AI to flag suspicious packages and analyze their contents, before staff conduct a final inspection.
3 major investment banks bullish on Taiwan! Investment review board approves NT$23.3 billion in foreign investment in a single day; Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan and Merrill Lynch inject NT$13.9 billion, nearly 6 tenths
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Investment Commission approved 10 major investment cases: 5 foreign investment cases totaling NT$23,341.7 million, including NT$13,941.7 million from 3 major foreign investment banks, accounting for nearly 6 tenths; and 5 outbound investment cases totaling US$3.5203 billion. 廣達, 緯創 and 英業達 are among companies expanding overseas.
Facts
The Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Investment Commission held its 35th meeting on the 29th and approved 10 major investment cases.
There were 5 foreign investment cases, totaling NT$23,341.7 million.
The 3 major foreign investment banks injected a combined NT$13,941.7 million, accounting for nearly 6 tenths of total foreign investment.
UK-based Morgan Stanley International Holdings Inc. injected NT$6.44 billion into 台灣摩根士丹利證券.
US-based JPMorgan International Finance Limited injected NT$4.3017 billion into 摩根大通證券.
US-based Merrill Lynch International injected NT$3.2 billion into 美林證券.
There were 5 approved outbound investment cases, totaling US$3.5203 billion.
南亞科 is investing US$2.1 billion in its British Virgin Islands subsidiary.
Walsin keeps October prices for base steel grades unchanged, raises prices for select alloy steel grades by NT$1,000 to NT$2,000 per metric ton
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
華新麗華 announced its October prices, keeping base steel grades unchanged and raising prices only for select alloy steel grades. Prices for copper-bearing 304 and free-machining grades will rise NT$1,000 per metric ton, and 316 will increase NT$2,000 per metric ton. The increases reflect higher scrap stainless steel costs and elevated prices for key metal raw materials amid AI-driven demand.
Facts
華新 keeps October prices for base steel grades unchanged
Prices for copper-bearing 304 and free-machining grades will rise NT$1,000 per metric ton
316 prices will rise NT$2,000 per metric ton
Domestic scrap stainless steel prices are up nearly 5% from the previous month
Demand for AI infrastructure continues to heat up
304, 200-series and 400-series prices remain unchanged
China introduces new interest subsidy policy for first-home mortgages, effective October 1
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
China’s Ministry of Finance, People’s Bank of China and National Financial Regulatory Administration jointly issued a notice launching a nationwide, 1-year interest subsidy policy for first-home mortgages from October 1, 2026. Eligible households purchasing a first home that meets floor-area and price requirements will receive an interest subsidy at an annual rate of 1 percentage point, capped at 1 million yuan. The central and local governments will fund the subsidies.
Facts
China’s Ministry of Finance, People’s Bank of China and National Financial Regulatory Administration jointly issued the Notice on Implementing an Interest Subsidy Policy for Residents’ Home Purchase Loans on Tuesday (the 29th).
The interest subsidy policy for residents’ home purchase loans will take effect nationwide on October 1, 2026, with an initial term of 1 year.
The policy applies to households using newly issued commercial personal housing loans to purchase a first home, provided the home has a floor area of no more than 120 square meters (inclusive) and a total price of no more than 1.5 million yuan (inclusive).
Financial authorities will provide an interest subsidy at an annual rate of 1 percentage point, based on the loan principal, for a period of no more than 5 years. The maximum loan amount eligible for the subsidy per household is 1 million yuan.
The central and local governments will fund 90% and 10% of the subsidies, respectively.
For a long-term commercial mortgage of RMB 1 million, an annual interest subsidy of 1 percentage point is equivalent to a discount of about one-third on the interest rate, and could help borrowers save nearly RMB 50,000 in interest payments over the life of the loan.
The policy uses an “automatic enrollment” process: borrowers authorize the handling bank when signing the loan agreement, and the bank automatically deducts the subsidy when collecting interest.
Funds will be disbursed through an “advance payment plus settlement” system. Handling banks will review eligibility, and the competent authorities will also conduct joint spot checks.
9 banks back memory chip leader! Taiwan Cooperative Bank leads NT$22 billion syndicated loan for Macronix, successfully signed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Macronix International signed a NT$22 billion syndicated loan led by Taiwan Cooperative Bank, with 9 banks participating. The funds will be used to expand factory buildings and purchase equipment.
Facts
Macronix International has signed an NT$22 billion equivalent syndicated loan.
合作金庫商業銀行 served as the lead arranger and administrative agent.
A total of 9 financial institutions participated in the syndicated loan.
The lender group comprised 8 financial institutions: 臺企銀, 土地銀行, 兆豐銀行, 彰化銀行, 玉山銀行, 上海銀行, 臺灣銀行 and 安泰銀行.
The funds will mainly be used to expand factory buildings, purchase machinery and equipment, and provide working capital.
Macronix International was established in 78 (Minguo calendar).
Taiwan Cooperative Bank ranked second among bookrunners in the syndicated loan market in 2025.
Taiwan dollar and stocks slide after holiday; currency falls nearly 1 jiao to close at 31.876, a near 2-week low
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
On the first trading day after the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, Taipei stocks and the Taiwan dollar weakened in tandem. The TAIEX fell below 4萬8千 points, closing at 47631.96, down 392.64 points, while foreign investors recorded net selling of NT$63.2 billion. The Taiwan dollar briefly fell more than 1 jiao against the U.S. dollar, breaking through 31.9, before closing at 31.876, down 9.6 cents and marking a near 2-week low. U.S. Treasuries were sold off and international oil prices rose, stoking market concerns about accelerating inflation. Stock markets across Asia generally fell.
Facts
The TAIEX closed at 47631.96, down 392.64 points.
Foreign investors recorded net selling of NT$63.2 billion.
The Taiwan dollar briefly plunged 1.45 jiao against the U.S. dollar, hitting a low of 31.925.
U.S. Treasuries suffered their heaviest monthly sell-off in 2 years, with the 10-year yield briefly topping 5.27%, a 19-year high.
Total trading volume in the Taipei and Yuanta foreign exchange markets rose to US$2.8515 billion.
The U.S. dollar index rose a cumulative 0.33%, the South Korean won gained 0.61%, the Japanese yen gained 0.53%, the renminbi gained 0.14%, the Singapore dollar edged up 0.02%, and the Taiwan dollar fell 0.30%.
4 台塑 Group companies team up with 中華化 to form a joint venture, with both sides holding more than half and moving into electronic-grade sulfuric acid
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
中華化 and 4 companies under the 台塑 Group have jointly established 台塑中華先進化學股份有限公司, with total capital of NT$6 billion. Each side will hold a 50% stake as they enter the electronic-grade sulfuric acid business. Production is expected to begin in December 2028.
Facts
中華化 plans to jointly invest with 4 companies under the 台塑 Group to establish the joint venture 台塑中華先進化學股份有限公司, with total capital set at NT$6 billion.
中華化 and the 台塑 Group will each hold a 50% stake.
台塑 will invest NT$1.2 billion for a 20% stake.
台塑化 will invest NT$600 million for a 10% stake.
台化 will invest NT$600 million for a 10% stake.
台塑生醫科技 will invest NT$600 million for a 10% stake.
Phase 1 is expected to begin production in December 2028, and Phase 2 in December 2030.
台塑 also approved a joint venture with 台紙 to establish FTA Tech, which plans to produce electronic-grade hydrochloric acid in the United States. The new company will have capital of US$38.1 million.
森崴能源 subsidiary Fu Wei board approves bankruptcy filing; says 台電 should return NT$6 billion and is considering legal action
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Fu Wei Energy's board approved a bankruptcy filing amid a contract dispute with 台電 over the second phase of an offshore wind farm project. The company says 台電 should return NT$6 billion or face a lawsuit. 台電 said it had made payments in accordance with the law and completed the handover of the wind turbines.
Facts
Fu Wei board approves bankruptcy filing
Amounts withheld by 台電 include NT$1.62 billion in performance bonds, NT$4.28 billion in construction retention payments and NT$4.715 billion in unpaid construction costs
Fu Wei says 台電 should return a total of NT$6 billion in performance bonds and construction retention payments
台電 has paid more than 90% of the project costs to Fu Wei
台電 completed the handover of the wind turbines on August 26 and 28 in the presence of a notary
Fu Wei placed a movable-property mortgage on the wind turbines in favor of its parent company 森崴能源
AI infrastructure investment races ahead of demand! Bain: Industry must generate US$6 trillion in revenue by 2031, with a US$4.2 trillion shortfall
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Bain & Company’s annual global technology report says investment in AI infrastructure far exceeds demand. By 2031, the industry will need to generate US$6 trillion in annual revenue to justify the investment, but current revenue is only US$1.8 trillion, leaving a US$4.2 trillion shortfall.
Facts
The global AI industry must generate US$6 trillion in annual revenue by 2031
Existing AI services can contribute at most US$1.8 trillion in revenue
The industry still needs to generate US$4.2 trillion in new revenue
Data center scale and costs roughly double every 12 to 16 months
Global data center spending will reach US$5 trillion to US$6.5 trillion by 2030
Annual spending on AI infrastructure could reach as much as US$1.5 trillion by 2031
Meta has launched an enterprise platform and recruited MongoDB CEO Desai, sending MongoDB shares down nearly 20%. MongoDB has urgently appointed Ittycheria as interim CEO and reaffirmed its financial forecast. Analysts say the leadership change could affect the company’s stability, though its strategic position remains advantageous.
Facts
Meta announces launch of enterprise platform “Meta Enterprise Platform”
Desai recruited by Meta to lead its enterprise platform
Standard Chartered Bank reports customer data leak after employee “sent text to wrong number”; FSC fines bank NT$2 million
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Financial Supervisory Commission fined Standard Chartered Bank NT$2 million under Article 129 of the Banking Act after an employee sent a text to the wrong number, exposing customer personal data, and the bank failed to establish a verification mechanism. Standard Chartered reported the incident voluntarily, and the FSC imposed the minimum fine after considering relevant factors.
Facts
The Financial Supervisory Commission announced on the evening of the 29th that 渣打國際商業銀行 had been fined NT$2 million for a customer data leak.
Standard Chartered Bank voluntarily reported the serious incident to the FSC’s Banking Bureau.
The customer data leak occurred because an employee entered the business representative’s mobile phone number incorrectly.
An employee sent a customer’s basic information to a business representative by text message, but the mobile phone number was incorrect.
Standard Chartered Bank lacked a verification mechanism and a supervisor review process.
The FSC considered customer rights, the sensitivity of the personal data and the bank’s voluntary report, among other factors, and imposed a NT$2 million fine.
Another overseas base after Djibouti and Cambodia! 中國解放軍 plants flag in Southeast Asia, moves into Laos’ Ban Keun Airport
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
中國解放軍 has established a new overseas military outpost at Ban Keun Airport, about 64 kilometers north of the Laotian capital, Vientiane. The site operates as the “China-Laos Joint Support and Training Center” and mainly helps train Laotian air force pilots; it is jointly managed by the 2 countries. This is the third overseas base after Djibouti and Cambodia, raising concerns among Western countries about China’s military expansion.
Facts
中國解放軍 has established a new overseas outpost in Laos, at Ban Keun Airport.
The new base operates and is managed as the “China-Laos Joint Support and Training Center.”
The base is primarily intended to help the 寮國人民軍 strengthen training for its air force pilots.
China first opened an overseas military base in Djibouti in East Africa in 2017.
In 2025, China established the “China-Cambodia Joint Support and Training Center” at Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base.
The newly opened military center is about 64 kilometers north of Vientiane, the capital of Laos.
The China-Laos Railway officially began operations in 2021, boosting local economic development and strengthening regional ties between the 2 countries.
U.S. forces fully withdraw from Iraq！20-year war officially ends, but Kurds and military fear a “resurgence of Islamic State”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
U.S. forces will completely withdraw from Iraq on September 30, ending a war that lasted more than 20 years. Iran sees it as a victory, while Iraqis fear a power vacuum and an Islamic State resurgence.
Facts
The U.S. military is expected to begin its complete withdrawal from its last military base in Iraq on September 30.
Iran and its allies view the withdrawal as a major victory.
The withdrawal plan was first agreed upon in 2024 by then-U.S. President Joe Biden and the Iraqi government.
Iraqi security analyst Yasin said Iran would gain enormous strategic benefits from the international coalition’s withdrawal.
Kurdish commander Barzani said the absence of U.S. intelligence support, logistical supplies and drone surveillance would give the Islamic State an ideal opportunity to regroup.
JO1 held a press conference titled “JO1 U.S. Debut Launch Event” today (29) at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Japan (FCCJ), officially announcing that it will release its first original English-language EP, ANIMAL, in October and embark on a tour spanning 5 major North American cities.
Member Shoya Kimata said that a video call arranged by staff with Dem Jointz, a top American producer who has won a Grammy, led to the collaboration. The members then took part in a Song Camp, where they created several songs featured on the EP.
Leader Sho Yonashiro said all the members are Japanese. Over the past seven years, they have drawn on the strengths of K-POP and J-POP while continuing to explore their own identity. JO1’s challenge is to use the North American tour to show that its music and dance are neither K-POP nor traditional J-POP, but a distinctive “JO1-POP.”
Member Sukai Kinjo said Japanese audiences tend to be more shy and reserved, while overseas and Asian fans bring boundless enthusiasm and engage directly with the music on stage.
Since debuting in 2020, every single released by JO1 has topped the weekly charts of Japan’s Oricon and Billboard JAPAN, and the group has appeared on NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen every year.
When JO1 launched its first Asian tour in 2023, its Taipei show took place at Zepp New Taipei on November 11, 2023, and tickets sold out immediately after going on sale.
Department store sales surge over Mid-Autumn Festival holiday！Global Mall and Honhui post double-digit growth；“this product category” provides a key boost
Explainer》Would Taiwan’s military and civil servants have to retake exams after unification？How would pay and seniority be calculated？Mainland scholar says “this condition” would allow them to stay：autonomy greater than in Hong Kong and Macau
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Hu Gen, director of the Center for Cross-Strait Relations at Macau University of Science and Technology, outlined at a symposium a vision for Taiwan as a special administrative region after unification. It included greater autonomy than Hong Kong and Macau, conditions for military and civil servants to remain in post, continuation of the electoral system, governance by patriots and economic support.
Facts
Hu Gen, director of the Center for Cross-Strait Relations at Macau University of Science and Technology, said at a unification symposium on September 28 that foreign civil servants all remained in office when Macau returned to China. After unification, Taiwan’s military and civil servants could remain in their posts as long as they were willing to pledge allegiance to the “Taiwan Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China,” with their pay, seniority and retirement benefits continuing under existing laws.
The 9th “Think Tank Dialogue on National Reunification and National Rejuvenation” was held from September 27 to 30. It was organized by Central China Normal University and the Hubei Cross-Strait Exchange Promotion Association, with Hubei Minzu University as a co-organizer.
Hu Gen said that after peaceful reunification, Taiwan as a special administrative region would enjoy greater autonomy than Macau and Hong Kong.
Hu Gen said the chief executive, Legislative Yuan speaker and president of the court of final appeal of the Taiwan Special Administrative Region could be elected or appointed under a system modeled on the current one. Local chief executives such as county and city mayors, as well as elected representatives, could also be chosen under the existing electoral system.
Hu Gen said all Taiwan public officials who remain in office or are newly hired would have to pledge allegiance to the Taiwan Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China and its basic law, and take an oath of office before performing their duties.
Hu Gen said that if Taiwan chose to achieve reunification with the mainland through peaceful means, its economy would receive substantial support from the mainland in many areas.
Blue-and-white support down to just 20%！Doctor slams Dai Lian：“There’s always a margin of sampling error”—might as well just announce 22 to 0
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Dai Lian released a poll showing support for the Democratic Progressive Party at 36.6%, the Kuomintang at 14.8% and the Taiwan People's Party at 5.6%, with approval of Lai Ching-te at 51.4%. Shen Cheng-nan questioned why support for the blue and white camps was so low, saying the result may reflect sampling error.
Facts
The Democratic Progressive Party’s party identification stood at 36.6%.
The Kuomintang’s party identification stood at 14.8%.
The Taiwan People's Party’s party identification stood at 5.6%.
Undecided voters accounted for 32.2%.
Lai Ching-te's approval rating was 51.4%
Lai Ching-te's trust rating was 51.2%
The survey was conducted from September 21 to 23, 2026
3 reasons why Lisa Su had to spend $8.2 billion to buy Fei-Fei Li’s company：AMD’s second-largest acquisition ever；chasing Nvidia is only one of them
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
AMD announced it would acquire World Labs, founded by Fei-Fei Li, in an all-stock deal worth $8.2 billion. The deal is AMD’s second-largest acquisition ever, aims to break into physical AI, and will see Li become chief scientist.
Facts
AMD announced on September 28 U.S. Eastern Time that it would acquire World Labs, founded by Fei-Fei Li, in an all-stock deal worth about $8.2 billion.
After the deal closes, Fei-Fei Li will become AMD’s chief scientist and executive vice president.
The “world models” that World Labs specializes in are a core technology for physical AI.
AMD will allow World Labs to operate independently until the deal closes.
The deal is the second-largest acquisition in AMD’s history.
Not just pay raises for military personnel, public servants and teachers! “This private school” approves across-the-board pay increases for faculty and staff; its substantial Teachers’ Day gift plan is revealed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
東海大學 announced pay increases in line with those for military personnel, public servants and teachers. Its board approved increases of 2000 yuan each for professional allowances and supervisory position allowances, as well as a 4% across-the-board pay raise in the 116 academic year. President 張國恩 said this was a long-term commitment aimed at retaining and recruiting talent.
Facts
東海大學’s board approved a faculty and staff compensation adjustment plan at its meeting on Sept. 23.
東海大學 will increase both professional allowances and supervisory position allowances by a fixed 2000 yuan.
東海大學 will implement another 4% across-the-board compensation increase in the 116 academic year.
The Executive Yuan approved a plan in July to raise compensation for military personnel, public servants and teachers, with a 4% across-the-board increase starting next year.
Original軍公教調薪整體受惠人數預估達72萬人
東海大學 President 張國恩 said the pay increase was a long-term commitment.
From department stores to railways! 新光三越’s strongest anniversary-sale IP collaboration: the ultimate guide to the “Pokémon Train,” including schedules, fares and digital stamp collecting
新光三越 has teamed up with Taiwan Railways to launch the “新光三越 Anniversary Sale Pokémon 30th-Anniversary Themed Train,” turning an EMU800 train into a traveling Pokémon world.
The Pokémon Train event runs from Sept. 25 to Dec. 13. The train will join Taiwan Railways’ regular weekday services, while special experience trips are planned for weekends.
The 6 special Pokémon experience trips will run on Oct. 3, Oct. 18, Oct. 31, Nov. 14, Nov. 29 and Dec. 5.
All 6 special trains will make one-way trips from Taipei to Xinzuoying, departing Taipei Station at 10:37 and arriving at Xinzuoying at 16:44. The journey takes about 6 hours.
The 6 special trains offer a total of 5,700 tickets. Popular trips sold out after tickets went on sale on Sept. 17, with fewer than 500 tickets currently remaining.
Indonesia’s national health insurance faces a financial crisis! 52 million people have unpaid premiums; government injects 35.1 billion in emergency funding
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Indonesian government is providing an additional 20 trillion rupiah to BPJS to address the financial crisis in the national health insurance program. As of September, premium revenue totaled 118 trillion rupiah, while medical benefits reached 132 trillion rupiah, leaving a 14 trillion rupiah shortfall. In addition, 52 million people have unpaid premiums. President Prabowo has ordered improvements to services and closer monitoring of the program’s future finances.
Facts
The Indonesian government will provide an additional 20 trillion rupiah to 社會保險執行機構（BPJS）.
As of September, premium revenue totaled about 118 trillion rupiah, while medical benefits reached 132 trillion rupiah, leaving a cash-flow shortfall of about 14 trillion rupiah.
About 52 million insured people have not paid their premiums.
The government had already budgeted about 47 trillion rupiah this year to pay national health insurance premiums for economically disadvantaged people and others.
The additional funds are expected to be disbursed in 2 installments in October and November.
There are currently about 285 million insured people.
2026 Industry Gold Awards｜A rocky plot beside the highway nurtures a family: 二十 years of the Dream-Building Family’s “flying-geese” journey
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
呂秀雪, chair of the Taoyuan Dream-Building Family Community Child Development Association, has spent 20 years supporting families of children with developmental delays. Starting in a rented 35-ping home, the group took on 1,800 ping of rocky land in 2016 to build a development center. Using a “flying-geese” approach, parents and volunteers take turns providing support. Through work exchanges and sharing community resources, the children learn communication and social skills. In recent years, the children have created picture books and podcasts, and the charity shop will move back to the entrance of the center.
Facts
The Dream-Building Family Community Child Development Association’s development center occupies a narrow 1,800-ping plot between National Freeway 1 and the Nankan River.
In 2016, Dream-Building Family took on a vacant plot owned by a construction company, which faced fines if the land was left unused and unmaintained.
Dream-Building Family uses a “flying-geese” approach, with parents and volunteers taking turns supporting children with developmental delays.
Using funding from the Taoyuan City Government’s Department of Cultural Affairs, the children produced podcasts interviewing people who had helped them and turned the stories into picture books.
呂秀雪 continued her studies through graduate school at Ming Chuan University and has earned more than a dozen professional certifications.
With help from the Rotary Club, the charity shop will move from downtown back to the entrance of the center at the end of the year.
Saying no to e-cigarettes can be stylish, too: students from 六 schools across northern, central and southern Taiwan wear their smoke-free stance and showcase a fresh take on youth
Students from the 六 schools completed a total of 363 creative works.
In 114, e-cigarette use rates among junior high school students and high school and vocational school students were 2.1% and 5.1%, respectively, for a combined adolescent rate of 3.7%.
The HPA laid out 三 principles for refusing tobacco: “Don’t try it, don’t buy it, and don’t recommend it.”
HPA Director 沈靜芬 said young people may try e-cigarettes out of curiosity, but nicotine is addictive.
Could 沈伯洋’s “wave” turn Taipei around? Professor goes against the grain on a pro-green talk show, predicts a “major flop”; media personality fires back: “Let’s bet”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The “wave” around Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate 沈伯洋 has recently gained momentum, with polls showing him just 1.2 percentage points behind 蔣萬安. 易元培, a professor at National Chi Nan University, said on the pro-green political talk show “驚爆新聞線” that the green camp was caught up in a trend similar to the earlier Han Kuo-yu wave and could suffer a “major flop in the mass recall” on the Nov. 28 election day. His remarks prompted fellow guest and media personality 陳敏鳳 to angrily challenge him: “Let’s bet.”
Facts
沈伯洋 is the Democratic Progressive Party’s candidate for Taipei mayor.
沈伯洋 has drawn crowds of supporters while canvassing at night markets and on street walks, prompting some to describe a “沈 wave.”
A poll released by 信民兩岸研究協會 in partnership with 戴立安 found that 沈伯洋 and 蔣萬安 were separated by just 1.2 percentage points in voter support.
易元培, a professor of general education at National Chi Nan University, said on the pro-green political talk show “驚爆新聞線” that the green camp was caught up in a trend similar to the earlier Han Kuo-yu wave and that, on the Nov. 28 election day, “the mass recall will be another major flop.”
Veteran media personality 陳敏鳳, who appeared on the same program, was unhappy with 易元培’s remarks and challenged him: “Let’s bet.”
易元培 said the “沈 wave” was like the earlier Han Kuo-yu wave, simply a phenomenon. He said people now live in echo chambers and 沈伯洋 had merely gone from being “someone people questioned” to a more popular online influencer.
The poll was funded by 信民協會, with 戴立安 responsible for questionnaire design and analysis and 畢肯市場研究公司 conducting telephone interviews. The survey ran from Sept. 16 to Sept. 18 and targeted Taipei City residents aged 20 and older. It completed 1,076 interviews—752 by landline and 324 by mobile—with a maximum sampling error of ±3.0%.
Patent filed for a high-pressure sintering device that combines GPa-level pressure and electric-current sintering using a “general-purpose materials testing machine”—enabling low-temperature production of new materials such as transparent silica glass without a dedicated ultra-high-pressure press; can be connected to existing testing machines
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
スペースシードホールディングス and 岡山理科大学 have filed 2 patent applications for a high-pressure sintering device that connects to existing materials testing machines and combines GPa-level pressure with electric-current sintering (SPS). The device has been demonstrated to produce transparent silica glass at the low temperature of about 3 GPa and 500°C.
Plans to establish クラリアホールディングス株式会社, linking 3 fields: IT, beauty and automobiles
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
クラリアホールディングス株式会社 is scheduled to be established on September 30, 2026, as a holding company responsible for the management and oversight of 3 group companies. Capital: 10 million yen.
Toshimi Tagawa holds a concert marking the 35th anniversary of her debut at Asakusa Public Hall in Tokyo. Looking back on 35 years, she performs 20 songs, including her new song 「いのち陽炎」!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Enka singer Toshimi Tagawa held a concert marking the 35th anniversary of her debut at Asakusa Public Hall in Tokyo, performing 20 songs, including her new song 「いのち陽炎」. Her single released by 日本コロムビア is enjoying a long run on the charts, and she is scheduled to release a collaboration song with the Kamen Rider series in June.
Facts
Goes on sale April 22
Takes first place
On the 29th, at Asakusa Public Hall in Taito Ward, Tokyo
『18TRIP』 Main Story Season 2 『Reach for the Next Star』 release date announced!—New KOBE ward chiefs and cast revealed!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社リベル・エンタテインメント and 株式会社ポニーキャニオン announced that Season 2 of the main story of the game 『18TRIP』, 『Reach for the Next Star』, will begin streaming on October 9, 2026. They also announced the cast, including 5 new characters known as the “KOBE ward chiefs,” for a total of 10 cast members, as well as a commemorative event at Minatomirai Station on the 横浜高速鉄道 line.
Facts
Streaming begins Friday, October 9, 2026
There will be 10 ward chiefs
5 KOBE ward chiefs
From Saturday, October 10, to Monday, October 12, a public holiday
株式会社DripSquare establishes U.S. subsidiary Matcha Otaku USA Inc. on October 1, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社DripSquare established Matcha Otaku USA Inc. in New York State on October 1, 2026, as its first overseas base. The company, which supports exports of Japanese food products, will strengthen customer service and its supply network in the North American market.
Facts
Oct. 1, 2026
Spanning more than 80 countries
Companies mentioned：株式会社DripSquare、Matcha Otaku USA Inc.
[First in Japan] (according to the company’s own research) Notification of a Class II Regenerative Medicine Provision Plan for Cognitive Dysfunction Using Buccal Fat-Derived Stem Cells Accepted on August 6, 2026; Treatment Set to Begin October 1!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
医療法人社団癒合会 announced that its notification of a Class II Regenerative Medicine Provision Plan for cognitive dysfunction using buccal fat-derived stem cells was accepted on August 6, 2026, and that treatment will begin on October 1 at 高輪和合クリニック and 東京塔医院.
The 3rd installment of the much-talked-about “revival relay”! The sold-out 蜜芋ブリュレカステラ returns on October 1. A special promotion marking グランドカステラ’s 5th anniversary in Japan
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Taiwanese castella specialty shop GRAND CASTELLA will bring back its 蜜芋ブリュレカステラ, which sold out last year, for a limited time starting October 1 to mark its 5th anniversary in Japan.
Bringing connections nurtured in Saitama to a new retail space. ヴェルジェ越谷店 reopens after renovation on Thursday, October 1, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ヴェルジェ will reopen ヴェルジェ越谷店 after renovations on October 1, 2026. Three specialty stores—produce, seafood and meat—will be brought together on one floor, creating a retail space that draws on the original spirit of face-to-face sales.
リーフラス株式会社 announces dates for releasing its first-half results for the fiscal year ending December 2026 and holding its earnings briefing
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
リーフラス株式会社 announced that it will release its first-half results for the fiscal year ending December 2026 on October 8, 2026, and hold earnings briefings in Japanese and English.
Publishes an illustrated practical guide to using AI to do work that helps others
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
リクエスト株式会社, a company that conducts research in organizational behavioral science® based on data from 980 companies and 338,000 people, has published an illustrated practical guide to using AI, titled 『相手に役立つ仕事のためのAI活用』. The 32-page PDF explains how to check context, objectives and facts when prompting AI and during the creation process, and includes concrete examples using practical worksheets for the workplace.
A new beauty brand, “R beauté,” produced by Rちゃん, is born. Luxurious body care that feels like “bathing the whole body in serum” launches October 1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Rose is launching “R beauté,” a new beauty brand produced by Rちゃん, and will begin accepting reservations for its body care collection on October 1.
Enchanting maid outfits and retro diner costumes. 7 new styles for women unveiled
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社クリアストーン will release 7 new styles (14 types in total) from its costume line for women. The collection includes the romantic maid outfit “Lyrical palette” and a series of retro diner costumes.
New “Osmo Nano On-the-Go Combo” bundles an ultra-compact camera, “DJI Osmo Nano,” with a mini extension rod
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社セキド will begin selling the “Osmo Nano On-the-Go Combo,” a set featuring the ultra-compact camera “DJI Osmo Nano” and a mini extension rod, on September 29, 2026.
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