裕民 bullish on prospects for small and midsize bulk carriers, advances toward hundred-ship plan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
裕民 announced that it has signed a contract with 新大洋造船 for 4 Ultramax bulk carriers, expanding its fleet to 90 vessels as it advances its hundred-ship plan and strengthens its green-energy competitiveness.
Facts
裕民’s subsidiary 裕民航運 has signed a contract with 新大洋造船 to build 4 64,000-deadweight-ton Ultramax bulk carriers
The first new vessel is expected to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2029
裕民’s total fleet will reach 90 vessels
The new vessels’ EEDI is about 40% below the IMO baseline
The new vessels meet Phase 4 energy-efficiency standards
Taiwan stocks hovered near 48,000 points after opening, with blue chips mixed. 台積電 and 聯發科 edged higher, while 鴻海 and ASE fell. Funds shifted to passive components and silicon wafer stocks, with 國巨 and 環球晶 performing strongly.
Facts
Taiwan stocks briefly reached 48,181 points after opening today (1), up about 240 points.
台積電 (2330-TW) rose nearly 1% to NT$2,500.
Benchmark stock 國巨* (2327-TW) surged 7%.
環球晶 (6488-TW), a bellwether in the silicon wafer sector, briefly surged to the daily limit.
Today's trading volume is expected to reach NT$830 billion, slightly lower than yesterday.
鴻海 (2317-TW) and 日月光投控 (3711-TW) fell by about 2% or less.
鈞寶 (6155-TW) and 勤凱 (4760-TW) both hit the daily limit.
AI chip demand continues to surge! South Korea's September exports top $120 billion for the first time, aiming to exceed $1 trillion this year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
South Korea's Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced on 1 that September exports rose 83.5% year over year to $120.9 billion, topping the $120 billion mark for a single month for the first time. Semiconductor exports surged more than twice year over year to a record $60.3 billion. Exports for the first 3 quarters totaled $814.5 billion, while the September trade surplus hit a record $49.85 billion.
Facts
South Korea's September exports rose 83.5% year over year to a record $120.9 billion, topping the $120 billion mark for a single month for the first time.
South Korea's September semiconductor exports topped $60 billion for the first time, rising more than twice year over year to $60.3 billion.
South Korea's exports totaled $814.5 billion in the first 3 quarters of this year, topping the $800 billion mark for the first time.
South Korea's September imports rose 26% year over year to $71.09 billion.
South Korea's monthly trade surplus reached $49.85 billion in September, surpassing the previous record of $35.91 billion set in June.
South Korea's tax revenue is expected to reach a record 478.6 trillion won (about $353 billion) this year, up 28% year over year.
September export growth was 104.9% after adjustment for working days.
Investment Radar》U.S. midterm elections draw near: Should investors reduce exposure and wait, or position themselves now?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
This article explores the potential impact of the 2026 U.S. midterm elections on markets, analyzes how oil prices and inflation could affect the election, and notes that historical data show a divided Congress is not necessarily bad news for U.S. stocks, advising investors to seize opportunities to position themselves before the election.
Facts
The focus of the 2026 U.S. midterm elections is whether Republicans can hold on to the House and Senate.
From 1978 to 2022, during periods of rising oil prices, the president's party lost an average of 31.4 seats in the House.
U.S. stocks posted an average return of nearly 17% in the year after midterm elections under a broadly defined divided government.
Even under a strict divided-Congress scenario, U.S. stocks still returned an average of 12.1% in the year after midterm elections.
The average return was 19% for investors who bought the S&P 500 a month before the election and held it for 1 year.
Putin: Unlike some countries, Russia will not go around the world “begging”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Russian President Putin stressed at a State Duma meeting on the 30th that Russia would not beg any country for handouts, and declared that the country was capable of ensuring its long-term security and sovereignty. The results of the State Duma election held this month were also announced on the same day, with United Russia winning and Volodin reelected as speaker.
Facts
Putin said at a State Duma meeting that Russia would not go around the world “begging.”
Putin said begging for handouts was humiliating and unnecessary.
United Russia won 349 seats in this State Duma election.
Volodin was reelected speaker of the State Duma.
This was the first State Duma election since the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalated into a full-scale war.
Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee blocked by 2 judges, throwing tech hiring into another legal battle
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The Trump administration's $100,000 fee on new H-1B visas has again been blocked by a court, with a judge ruling that the administration failed to follow the rulemaking process. The tech industry faces a legal battle over hiring as the government proposes a new rule setting the fee at $103,265.
Facts
Haywood Gilliam, a judge at the U.S. District Court in Oakland, California, ordered a pause on the Trump administration's policy of imposing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B work visas.
This is the second federal judge to block the $100,000 H-1B fee. A federal judge in Boston had previously ruled in a separate case that the policy was unlawful and barred collection of the fee.
In August, the Trump administration proposed an H-1B fee rule setting the amount at $103,265, seeking to institutionalize the high fee through the formal administrative rulemaking process.
TechNet, which represents large technology and artificial intelligence companies, submitted formal comments in September urging the government to withdraw its proposed $103,265 fee.
As of the end of February 2026, about 70 employers had paid the $100,000 fee for only 85 related visa applications.
Employers registered about 344,000 H-1B applications in 2025, down more than 25% from 2024 and less than half of the 759,000 in 2023.
Major H-1B users such as Google have expanded their operations in overseas locations including India after changes to visa review and processing.
永笙 files for Taiwan drug approval for cord blood cell product, expanding clinical applications of cord blood
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
永笙(4178-TW) announced that its cord blood cell product REGENECYTE has been submitted to Taiwan's TFDA for registration to expand its clinical applications. The product has been approved by the U.S. FDA for 80 diseases, compared with the 29 currently covered in Taiwan, and is intended to provide treatment options that meet international standards.
Facts
永笙 announced that its cord blood cell product REGENECYTE has formally been submitted to Taiwan's TFDA for registration as a regenerative medicine product.
REGENECYTE has received U.S. FDA biologics approval for use in 80 hematopoietic and immune system diseases.
Cord blood is currently used clinically in Taiwan to treat 29 diseases.
永笙 has its own public and private cord blood bank resources totaling more than 36,000 units.
永笙 has already supplied more than 2,300 units for successful clinical transplants.
永笙 holds dual international quality accreditations from AABB and FACT.
BofA raised its estimate for the total addressable market (TAM) for AI data center systems from 2026 to 2030 from $1.8 trillion to $2.2 trillion.
The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index currently trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 21 times, below the median of 24 times since ChatGPT's launch.
Micron is expected to begin share repurchases on December 9.
BofA remains bullish on chip stocks including AMD, Applied Materials, Analog Devices and onsemi.
If development of advanced AI models slows or additional safety measures are introduced, computing demand could increase instead.
Flag-raising ceremony held at Tiananmen Square; 10,000 peace doves released
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
On National Day, October 1, 2026, a flag-raising ceremony was held at Tiananmen Square to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of New China. People traveled to Beijing from across the country and queued to attend; after the ceremony, thousands of peace doves were released and songs were sung in unison.
Facts
October 1, 2026, is China's National Day, marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of New China.
The 2026 National Day flag-raising ceremony was held at Tiananmen Square.
After the flag-raising ceremony, more than 10,000 peace doves were released at Tiananmen Square.
People at the scene sang “Ode to the Motherland” after the ceremony.
Ms. Li from Jilin traveled by high-speed rail for 6 hours and arrived in Beijing on the 30th with her father and younger sister.
72-year-old Grandpa Wang from Shanghai and his family traveled for more than 5 hours to reach Beijing.
AI data centers are scrambling for power! Bloom Energy has surged 219% this year; Cramer remains bullish but says, “Don’t chase it yet”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
CNBC host Cramer is bullish on Bloom Energy’s long-term potential in the behind-the-meter power market for AI data centers, but advises investors not to chase the stock for now because it has surged 219% this year and its valuation is too high. The company recently won a 2.8GW order from 甲骨文, and its second-quarter revenue rose 166% year over year, demonstrating strong growth momentum.
Facts
Bloom Energy’s stock has surged 219% this year, including a 34% gain in September alone.
Bloom Energy reported second-quarter revenue of about 1.07 billion dollars, up 166% year over year.
甲骨文’s AI and cloud infrastructure plans will involve purchasing up to 2.8GW of Bloom fuel cell systems.
Bloom Energy raised its full-year 2026 revenue forecast to 3.9 billion to 4.2 billion dollars.
Bloom Energy’s core technology is a modular solid oxide fuel cell system that can be deployed near data centers to provide power directly.
Cramer believes Bloom Energy’s stock is trading at about 108 times its estimated earnings per share for this year.
Midair scare! Israeli defense minister says 杜拜航空 was involved in an “attempted terrorist attack”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
An Israeli official confirmed that a 杜拜航空 flight was targeted by a pilot who tried to crash the plane, but passengers bravely stopped him. The suspect is being held by Saudi Arabia, and Israel has raised its alert level.
Facts
Israeli passengers forced their way into the cockpit and subdued the suspect.
The suspect is a pilot who stabbed a fellow pilot and tried to crash the plane.
The suspect is currently being held and questioned by Saudi authorities.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu instructed security agencies to prepare for other potential threats.
Diesel prices hit a record high! Trump admits discussing an export ban “every day”; Fed survey says prices may take at least 1 year to fall
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
U.S. diesel prices hit a record high of 6.53 dollars per gallon. The Trump administration is discussing an export ban to bring prices down, but experts warn this could raise the cost of other petroleum products and that prices may not fall for at least a year.
Facts
U.S. diesel prices reached 6.53 dollars per gallon, a record high.
U.S. diesel prices rose by more than four-tenths over the past year.
Trump acknowledged that discussions on whether to ban diesel exports are taking place every day.
A Dallas Fed survey found that oil company executives expect diesel prices to take at least four quarters to fall.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a statewide disaster and loosened environmental regulations.
Fed headquarters renovation investigation released! No evidence of illegality found; Trump still presses Powell to resign as governor
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
An investigation report on the Fed headquarters renovation found management shortcomings but no evidence of illegality, prompting strong displeasure from Trump, who called on Powell to resign. Fed Chair Warsh responded that the General Services Administration would take over the remaining work to ensure transparency and compliance.
Facts
Renovation of the Fed’s 2 historic buildings on the National Mall in Washington is estimated to cost about 2.4 billion dollars, roughly 1 billion dollars more than the original budget.
An internal watchdog report released Wednesday by the Fed inspector general found problems with oversight of the project, but no evidence of criminal activity or administrative misconduct.
The Fed Board did not obtain a project cost estimate from the construction management firm until January 2026, by which time construction had been underway for 3 and a half years.
As of July 2026, the Fed Board had still not set a guaranteed maximum price.
Current Fed Chair Warsh announced that 美國總務署(GSA) would lead management of the remaining work.
Just 22 days! Muse surpasses ChatGPT in the U.S. as the fastest AI app to reach 5 million downloads
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Meta AI assistant Muse surpassed 5 million downloads within 22 days of launch, outpacing competitors such as ChatGPT to become the fastest AI app to hit the milestone. It also secured the top spot on the U.S. App Store’s free-app chart.
Facts
Meta AI assistant Muse surpassed 5 million downloads in about 3 weeks after launch, claimed the top spot on the U.S. App Store’s free-app chart, and held it for 12 consecutive days.
Muse surpassed 5 million downloads on its 22nd day, faster than ChatGPT (56 days), Grok (103 days), and Claude (492 days).
Only 23 apps in the U.S. market have exceeded 5 million downloads within 22 days of launch, and about 85% of them were mobile games.
Among non-gaming apps, Disney+, HBO Max, and Threads recorded about 20 million, 18 million, and 14 million downloads over the same period, respectively.
Meta ramped up advertising for Muse starting September 16. Downloads that day rose 73% quarter over quarter, while the app accounted for as much as 50% of Meta’s own ad impressions.
AI demand boom lifts Micron Q1 forecast well above expectations; shares rise after hours
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
美光科技 reported fourth-quarter results and issued its latest quarterly forecast, with revenue and earnings both beating Wall Street expectations on surging demand for HBM and high-speed memory from AI servers. The company forecast next-quarter revenue of 61.5 billion dollars and announced that it would expand U.S. investment to more than 250 billion dollars. Its shares rose after hours.
Facts
Micron reported revenue of 54.23 billion dollars for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2026, up 379% from a year earlier.
Micron forecasts first-quarter fiscal 2027 revenue of 61.5 billion dollars, above analysts’ average estimate of 56.77 billion dollars.
Micron has signed 36 multi-year supply agreements, covering about one-third of its revenue.
Micron raised its U.S. investment plan through 2035 to more than 250 billion dollars.
Amazon, Alphabet, and other major technology companies are expected to spend more than 730 billion dollars on AI infrastructure this year.
The metals rally isn’t over! 高盛: Silver, copper, and platinum could face another bout of sharp price swings
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
高盛 said in a report that trade wars and tariff uncertainty will heighten volatility in metals markets. Silver, copper, platinum, and palladium could face another bout of sharp swings. Copper in particular may see renewed volatility from the second half of 2025 through the first half of 2026, amid AI infrastructure demand, supply shortage concerns, and tight inventories outside the U.S.
Facts
Daan Struyven, co-head of global commodities research at 高盛, said the high uncertainty brought by trade wars could become a new catalyst for volatility in metals markets.
Silver, driven by a short squeeze, set its first all-time high in 45 years in London.
高盛 believes the sharp volatility seen in the second half of 2025 and the first half of 2026 could return.
Analysts expect copper demand to continue exceeding supply over the next 10 years.
Tariff policies are unlikely to directly create new supplies of critical minerals, because mines and smelters take far longer to build than it takes to adjust tariff policies.
Key U.S. stock market news summary, October 01, 2026
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
U.S. stock market news summary for October 1, 2026, covering Micron’s Q4 results, Meta shares surging on the success of Muse, internal doubts about Google Gemini 4, 台積電’s assessment of investment in Texas, and speculation about a SpaceX merger following changes to Tesla’s voting system.
Facts
美光科技 reported its fourth-quarter fiscal 2026 results after the market close on September 30, 2026 (for the quarter ended 9/3), beating expectations.
Micron's data center revenue surged approximately 11 times year over year
Meta shares soared approximately 27% in September, buoyed by its personal AI agent Muse, marking their best monthly performance since November 2022
OpenAI launches rival product Dots
Alphabet shares pared gains from more than 2% to about 0.5% as employees raised concerns about the performance of key Gemini 4 projects
Google first showed Gemini 4 to trusted cybersecurity partners and will later expand access to paid subscribers
台積電 is reportedly evaluating an investment in Texas, though plans have not been finalized
The potential Texas investment would be in addition to the $265 billion committed in Arizona
Kashkari strikes a hawkish tone: Inflation has spread to services and still needs to be curbed; expects another rate hike this year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Minneapolis Federal Reserve President Kashkari stressed that inflationary pressures have spread to the services sector. The Fed is keeping the option of raising rates open and expects another hike this year and one more in 2027.
Facts
Kashkari expects another rate hike this year and one more in 2027.
Inflationary pressures have spread to broader areas, including the services sector.
Warsh estimates that PCE inflation was around 3.6% in August.
The U.S. unemployment rate remains at 4.1%.
At last month's meeting, the Federal Reserve pushed back the timeline for returning inflation to its 2% target to 2029.
South Korea to invest $200 billion in the U.S.; 4 energy companies stand to benefit
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
South Korea announced a major increase in investment in U.S. energy and infrastructure, totaling up to $200 billion and covering Alaska LNG, nuclear power and a Texas natural gas power project. The move not only strengthens the U.S.-South Korea strategic alliance but also directly creates business opportunities and revenue growth for related companies such as ConocoPhillips, Baker Hughes, Cameco and Brookfield Renewable Partners.
Facts
South Korea will invest up to $200 billion in strategic U.S. projects, including an Alaska liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, nuclear power plants and natural gas power facilities in Texas.
The Alaska LNG project is being developed by private company Glenfarne Group, which holds a 75% stake; the State of Alaska holds the remaining 25%.
ConocoPhillips has signed a 30-year natural gas supply agreement with Glenfarne to supply gas produced on Alaska's North Slope to the Alaska LNG project.
Baker Hughes has been selected as the Alaska LNG project's primary equipment supplier, responsible for providing the main refrigerant compressors for the LNG export terminal.
Westinghouse is jointly owned by Cameco and Brookfield Renewable Partners, with Brookfield Renewable Partners and its institutional partners holding a 51% stake and Cameco holding 49%.
South Korea will invest $100 billion to build 8 large nuclear reactors, with an additional $20 billion in reserve funds.
The planned investment in the Encinal combined-cycle natural gas power plant in Texas is approximately $22.3 billion, with generating capacity of more than 6GW.
BOJ policy shift could accelerate rate hikes ahead
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Reuters reported that 日本銀行 is expected to accelerate its pace of rate hikes to address inflation risks. Markets are watching the Tankan survey and inflation data; if price pressures widen, the BOJ could raise rates again in October or December. Despite calls from some in the market for aggressive tightening, the central bank remains cautious about rapid rate hikes and will act only if inflation surges or exceeds its target.
Facts
日本銀行 expects to raise rates faster and more frequently in the future to get ahead of the risk of inflation exceeding its target.
If the Tankan survey released Thursday shows that companies' inflation expectations have risen further, or inflation data released Friday points to widening price pressures, either could strengthen the case for the BOJ to raise rates again in October or December.
Tokyo's core consumer inflation rate may have risen to 2.4% in September, accelerating sharply from 1.8% in August.
BOJ Governor Kazuo Ueda said consecutive rate hikes may be possible only if there is a risk of a sharp rise in inflation or underlying inflation is already above the central bank's 2% target.
Former BOJ policy board member Makoto Sakurai expects the Bank of Japan to raise its current policy rate of 1.25% to 2% around June next year.
As threats by the Japanese government to intervene in currency markets have failed to lift the yen, markets may further press the central bank to support the currency through more aggressive monetary tightening.
Rising Treasury yields are 'nothing to worry about'? Analysts say the U.S. economy is strong enough
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
A recent sharp sell-off in the U.S. Treasury market pushed yields to a 20-year high, but analysts say this reflects an economy strong enough to withstand higher interest rates rather than a harbinger of financial crisis. Strong PMI data and expectations of further Federal Reserve rate hikes have lifted nominal economic growth, while stock market performance has shown no signs of panic.
Facts
After a sell-off in U.S. Treasuries, yields on major government bonds have climbed to a 20-year high.
The 30-year U.S. Treasury yield topped 5.5%, its highest since 2004.
According to the latest Flash PMI released by 標普全球, U.S. economic activity expanded at its fastest pace in more than 5 years.
Markets see a 95% probability that interest rates will be higher than current levels by year-end.
盈透證券 senior economist Jose Torres said synchronized strong growth in manufacturing and services is driving the sharp rise in Treasury yields.
DataTrek co-founder Nicholas Colas estimates that short-term Treasury yields would need to rise to a range of 5.5% to 6.5% to make stocks significantly more attractive to investors.
Long-term inflation expectations remain at around 2% to 3%.
Companies mentioned：Business insider、標普全球、盈透證券、美國銀行資產管理集團、Principal Asset Management、德意志銀行、DataTrek Research
Where should you enroll in health insurance after leaving a job? Not under your spouse or children's plan: the health insurance agency reveals the 'correct enrollment order' and the cheapest option
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article explains the legally prescribed order for enrolling in health insurance after leaving a job, emphasizing that eligibility should be checked in order based on occupational status, dependent coverage and, lastly, status as a person without an occupation in a local area. It also explains how to apply online through the NHI Express app to enroll through a district office.
Facts
The National Health Insurance system has clear legal rules establishing the priority order for enrollment categories.
The first priority for health insurance enrollment after leaving a job is occupational status. Those eligible as members of an occupational union, farmers' association or fishermen's association should enroll through that organization first.
If you are not eligible through a union, farmers' association or fishermen's association, the second priority is to check whether you qualify for dependent coverage.
Only if you do not qualify under either of the first 2 categories should you apply through a district office under the sixth category for people without an occupation in a local area.
People can apply online to enroll through a district office using the National Health Insurance Express | My Health Bank app.
Husband dies, leaving 30 million yen in insurance money; 76-year-old mother-in-law demands a share after memorial service. Daughter-in-law checks policy: the beneficiary had already been changed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Japanese man Osamu Kimura died suddenly, leaving 30 million yen in insurance proceeds, and his mother Tomoko came to claim the money. As the beneficiary had been changed to his wife Junko and his mother was not a statutory heir, Junko was not required to share the proceeds. Experts warn that voluntarily giving her money could incur gift tax.
Facts
After husband Osamu Kimura died, he left 30 million yen in life insurance proceeds.
The approximately 18 million yen home mortgage was fully paid off by group credit life insurance.
After the 49th-day memorial service, 76-year-old mother-in-law Tomoko came to demand a share of the insurance proceeds.
Under Japan's Civil Code, a spouse and children are first in line to inherit; parents inherit only if there are no children.
MARS and Meiji lose out! Insiders pick the “Top ten best-tasting plant-based protein powders”: The champion has great flavor, mixes easily and offers such good value that buyers return again and again
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
《網路溫度計DailyView》 has released a ranking of the ten plant-based protein powder brands most discussed by online users. TRYALL took the top spot, with a range of options from sports nutrition to everyday wellness.
Facts
《網路溫度計DailyView》 used the public-opinion analysis software 《KEYPO大數據關鍵引擎》 to compile a list of the ten plant-based protein powder brands most discussed by online users.
TRYALL ranked first, followed by Body Goals in second place.
米鴻生醫 has launched a line of high-performance vegan plant protein powders, labeled 100% vegan and lactose-free. Flavors include sesame, premium coffee, artisan cocoa and brown rice.
Meiji's SAVAS soy protein line uses non-GMO soy protein isolate and is fortified with B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin D.
Body Goals' vegan pea protein drink line comes in Protein Drink and Protein Drink PRO varieties, providing more than 20g and 27g of protein per serving, respectively.
Companies mentioned：《網路溫度計DailyView》、米鴻生醫 MIHONG、RESTSOL 睿獸、BeRule、AGUGU、Plants B 彼蛋白、戰神MARS、明治meiji SAVAS、THE VEGAN 樂維根、Body Goals、TRYALL
How close are Chiang Wan-an and Shen Po-yang in public support? Writer estimates the “vote threshold” for a Taipei City takeover: The current has already achieved one goal
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Writer 漂浪島嶼 analyzed the Taipei mayoral race, saying Democratic Progressive Party candidate Shen Po-yang has stirred up a wave with the “大洋流計畫,” successfully cornering incumbent Chiang Wan-an, who is seeking re-election. The article assesses that Chiang is facing a tight race with little support, while Shen would need to surpass former president Tsai Ing-wen's record of 870,000 votes to win; otherwise, a defeat could leave him marginalized in politics.
Facts
Shen Po-yang announced the launch of the “大洋流計畫” on September 30, saying he would hold talks and campaign by vehicle in every Taipei district.
Writer 漂浪島嶼 said Shen Po-yang has completed the “encirclement mission,” leaving Chiang Wan-an under attack from all sides.
Original蔣萬安在2022年與白營合作的得票底盤約為90多萬票。
Former president Tsai Ing-wen set a record of 870,000 votes in the Taipei mayoral election.
漂浪島嶼 believes that if Shen Po-yang loses by a wide margin, the Kuomintang and the Taiwan People's Party may mock him as “大罷免2.0.”
The Ministry of Labor announced that the period for wage-gap subsidies under employment stabilization measures for 9 designated manufacturing industries, including food and animal-feed manufacturing, has been extended to October 31, 2026. The move aims to help industries affected by international economic conditions weather the transition and recovery period and provide workers with practical financial support.
Facts
The Ministry of Labor has extended to October 31, 2026, the period for wage-gap subsidies under employment stabilization measures for 9 designated manufacturing industries.
Eligible workers on reduced hours can receive a maximum monthly wage-gap subsidy of NT$1萬1,500 per person.
The 9 designated manufacturing industries are food and animal-feed manufacturing, textiles, rubber products manufacturing, plastic products manufacturing, metal products manufacturing, electrical equipment manufacturing, machinery and equipment manufacturing, motor vehicles and parts manufacturing, and other transportation equipment and parts manufacturing.
Workers who take part in skills training under the “Recharge Program” can receive up to NT$1萬6,300 per month.
The wage-gap subsidy is 70% of the difference between a worker's average monthly insured salary in the 1 to 3 months before reduced hours began and the actual agreed salary after the reduction.
Workers on reduced hours must apply within 90 days from the day after each 30-day period ends.
Full-time workers whose hours are reduced slightly can still apply for a monthly subsidy of up to NT$2,940 if they attend training.
Weather forecast: The season's strongest cold air is on the way! Temperatures across Taiwan will plunge, “dropping to just 18 degrees,” with heavy rain for 6 days. See when it will be wettest and coolest
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Central Weather Administration issued high-temperature alerts, with 7 counties and cities, including the Taipei-New Taipei area, under orange alerts. Weather expert Wu Der-rong forecast that a strengthening northeast monsoon on October 5 will bring cooler temperatures, with northern Taiwan possibly falling to 18 degrees. Tropical Storm Caiyun, the 26th storm of the year, is moving toward Japan and will not affect Taiwan.
Facts
The Central Weather Administration issued orange high-temperature alerts for 7 counties and cities: Taipei City, New Taipei City, Changhua County, Nantou County, Yunlin County, Tainan City and Pingtung County.
Some areas could see consecutive days with temperatures reaching 36 degrees Celsius.
Tropical Storm Caiyun, the 26th tropical storm of the year, formed over waters northeast of Guam.
The northeast monsoon will strengthen from October 5 to 6, bringing a marked drop in temperatures in northern Taiwan.
Temperatures in more open areas of the north could fall as low as 18 degrees.
Check your passbook now! The Bureau of Labor Insurance will send out “red envelopes worth up to NT$100,000 per person” in October. Unclaimed payments will be forfeited. See when all 18 payments will be deposited
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Bureau of Labor Insurance has released the October 2026 payment schedule for 18 benefits. The maximum National Pension maternity benefit for a single birth has risen to NT$100,000, while late October is a peak payment period for labor insurance pensions and farmers' allowances.
Facts
The Ministry of Labor's Bureau of Labor Insurance has released its October 2026 calendar for benefit and allowance payments. A total of 18 payments will be disbursed in stages from October 1 through October 30.
Starting January 1, 2026, the National Pension maternity benefit will rise to NT$100,000 for a single birth; those giving birth to twins can receive NT$200,000.
The National Pension maternity benefit has a 5-year claim deadline. The right to claim automatically expires if an application is not filed within 5 years of the date the person becomes eligible.
The farmers’ monthly retirement savings and the elderly farmers’ allowance will be paid on Oct. 20.
Labor insurance pensions, occupational accident insurance pensions, occupational accident disability care subsidies and monthly labor pension payments will be issued on October 29.
Why should you never look back during a funeral procession? It's not because you're afraid the deceased will follow you—a funeral director reveals that it's to protect the living
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article examines traditional taboos when saying goodbye at a crematorium, including not looking back, not saying goodbye, and cleansing oneself to remove impurity. It explains their dual purpose of protecting the living and guiding the deceased to rest in peace.
Facts
Shouting “The fire is coming, run!” when the coffin enters the cremation chamber is meant to remind the soul to leave the body and avoid pain.
When calling out to friends and relatives at a crematorium, avoid using their full names; use a form of address or nickname instead to protect the living.
The modern scientific and public health significance of cleansing oneself to remove impurity lies in personal hygiene, disinfection and psychological transition.
Where does household garbage go after the garbage truck takes it away? It doesn't actually disappear after being burned—“these things” can eventually become roads and bricks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article explains how bottom ash and fly ash from waste incineration are currently handled in Taiwan. In 2025, about 828,000 metric tons of bottom ash were produced. After processing, the recycling rate reached 100%, with the material used mainly for road backfill and construction materials, demonstrating the results of resource recycling.
Facts
In 2025 (ROC year 114), large waste incinerators across Taiwan produced about 828,000 metric tons of incinerator bottom ash, equivalent to about 13.7% of the total waste incinerated.
Incinerator bottom ash must be screened, crushed, separated magnetically, separated by air and sorted by eddy current, then stabilized, aged or washed before it can become recycled incinerator aggregate.
When aging treatment is used, the aging period must last at least 45 days.
After processing incinerator bottom ash across Taiwan in 2025, about 873,000 metric tons of recycled incinerator aggregate entered the recycling system over the year. Official statistics put the recycling rate for that year at 100%.
About 71.7% of recycled incinerator aggregate is used in “controlled low-strength backfill material,” while about 10.9% is used for site and embankment fill.
Large incinerators across Taiwan produced about 176,000 metric tons of fly ash in 2025, equivalent to about 2.8% of the total waste incinerated.
Before recycled incinerator aggregate leaves a reuse facility, it must be tested at least once for every 500 metric tons. Material that exceeds environmental standards cannot be reused.
Good news for workers: New nationwide leave rules take effect in October! Paid leave increases to 14 days, with “the government covering the wages.” See who is eligible
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Ministry of Labor has amended the Labor Leave Rules, increasing marriage leave from 8 days to 14 days, all paid. The government will subsidize wages for the additional 6 days. The new rules take effect October 1 and also apply to those who have registered their marriage but have not yet used all their leave.
Facts
The Ministry of Labor has formally proposed an amendment to Article 2 of the Labor Leave Rules, increasing the current statutory marriage leave from 8 days to 14 days.
The new rules are scheduled to be officially announced and take effect on October 1.
Employers will first pay wages for the additional 6 days, from day 9 through day 14, and then apply to the Ministry of Labor for full reimbursement.
As a general rule, marriage leave may be taken starting 10 days before the marriage registration date and must all be used within 3 months after the registration date.
Employers who violate the marriage leave rules will face a fine of NT$2萬 or more and NT$100萬 or less.
Claim your 2026 Double Ninth Festival gift money now! 3 counties and cities will deposit it directly tomorrow, 10/2: “Up to NT$70,000 per person.” See payment amounts and dates by county and city
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
For the 2026 Double Ninth Festival (Oct. 18), cities and counties across Taiwan are launching senior-citizen gift payments, with welfare policies further upgraded．Payments are being made in Taichung, Yunlin, Nantou, Kaohsiung and other areas．Centenarians in Nan'ao Township, Yilan, will receive the highest amount, a red envelope of 70,000 yuan．Exact amounts and schedules vary according to local regulations．
Facts
The 2026 Double Ninth Festival falls on Oct. 18 on the Gregorian calendar．
With the county government's base payment added, centenarians in Nan'ao Township, Yilan County, can receive up to 70,000 yuan．
Taichung City will begin distributing Double Ninth Festival senior-citizen cash gifts on Sept. 30．
Payments in Yunlin County, Nantou County and Kaohsiung City will be deposited starting Oct. 2．
Mailiao Township is adding a 2-qian gold ring for centenarians．
New Taipei City announced that it will begin distributing Double Ninth Festival senior-citizen gifts early, on Oct. 14．
Eligible residents of Hsinchu County will each receive 10,000 yuan．
Taipei City residents aged 99 and older will receive 10,000 yuan and 1 gift．
U．S． Treasury yields surge past 5.3%！All 3 major U．S． stock indexes close lower, Taiwan index futures turn negative, while Taiwan stocks open higher against the trend, gaining more than 100 points
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
U．S． PCE inflation in August came in below expectations, prompting markets to lower the odds of an October rate hike to 37%，but Treasury yields still climbed above 5.3%．Most U．S． stocks fell, while Taiwan stocks bucked the trend and opened higher, gaining more than 100 points．
Facts
The U．S． personal consumption expenditures price index (PCE) rose 3.4% year over year in August, below the market forecast of 3.7%．
Original市場預估聯準會10月升息的機率降至約37%
The U．S． 10-year Treasury yield was around 5.298% late in the session．
The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 443.87 points to 50,906.05．
Taipei stocks opened at 47,961.98 points and later extended their gains to more than 100 points．
New traffic rules take effect in October！Authorities nationwide crack down, imposing fines of up to 1200 yuan；motorcyclists beware—here are the latest rules
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taipei City’s Parking Management and Development Office announced that starting Oct. 6, it will expand access to public curbside paid motorcycle parking spaces for large motorcycles．Parking diagonally across 2 spaces costs 40 yuan, and violations carry a maximum fine of 1200 yuan．
Facts
Taipei City’s Parking Management and Development Office announced new parking measures for large motorcycles．Starting Oct. 6, about 63,000 public curbside paid motorcycle parking spaces across the city will be opened to red- and yellow-plate large motorcycles．
Large motorcycles may park diagonally across 2 spaces, at a charge of 40 yuan per use．
The Parking Management and Development Office reminds riders that parking in ineligible free motorcycle spaces or on roads with special no-parking signs can result in a fine of up to 1200 yuan．
Taipei City has been running the “Motorcycles and Large Motorcycles Shared Parking Spaces Pilot Program 2.0” since 2025．
According to the Parking Management and Development Office’s pilot program observations, more than 50% of residents support charging large motorcycles a separate rate to park in motorcycle spaces．
Seniors aged 65 and up, claim your money！Starting tomorrow, 10/2, “up to 12000 yuan in cash per person” will be automatically deposited in 3 counties and cities．2026 nationwide Double Ninth Festival senior-citizen payments: dates and amounts
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 2026 Double Ninth Festival senior-citizen gift payment program is underway．Nantou, Yunlin and Kaohsiung will make deposits on Oct. 2．Amounts and eligibility vary widely by area, with centenarians in Nan'ao Township, Yilan, receiving up to 70,000 yuan．
Facts
The 2026 Double Ninth Festival falls on Oct. 18．Nantou County, Yunlin County and Kaohsiung City will begin distributing senior-citizen gifts on Oct. 2．
Centenarians in Yunlin County can receive up to 12,000 yuan in senior-citizen gifts．
Keelung City has launched the “Longle 65” program, providing 6,500 yuan to each eligible senior．
Thanks to additional local funding, centenarians in Nan'ao Township, Yilan County, can receive up to 70,000 yuan．
Taichung City will distribute Double Ninth Festival senior-citizen gifts from Sept. 30 to Oct. 19．Those who do not claim them by the deadline may do so through Nov. 30．
Hsinchu County’s Double Ninth Festival senior-citizen gifts are subject to an asset eligibility limit．Those who qualify can receive 10,000 yuan each．
Changhua County distributes benefits to seniors according to age-based tiers．Centenarians can receive 10,000 yuan．
Seniors, claim your benefits！Senior cards upgraded nationwide, offering up to 1500 yuan per month for life；eligible users receive automatic deposits through their cards
Taitung County’s senior card has a monthly allowance of 1500 points, the highest in Taiwan．
Unused senior card points automatically reset to zero on the last day of each month and cannot be carried over．
Some counties and cities have lowered the age threshold for Indigenous people applying for senior cards to 55．
When using a senior card issued by another county or city on the Taipei Metro, only half the fare is deducted from stored value；monthly free points are not deducted．
Beijing Watch》The race for secure government jobs is heating up！China’s civil service exam prep market, however, is locked in “all-out combat”: from “guaranteed passes” to sweeping restrictions on advance payments
The number of applicants who passed the eligibility review for China’s 2026 national civil service exam neared 3 million, while the acceptance rate was only about 1.35%．
Original粉筆教育2026年上半年營收下滑16.3%至12.48億元，淨虧損1.84億元。
Beijing regulations cap advance payments for civil service exam prep courses at 12 months and require the funds to be deposited in a dedicated custodial account．
China plans to recruit 38,100 people for its 2026 national civil service exam, about 1,600 fewer than the previous year．
Beijing issued rules prohibiting civil service exam prep providers from making false claims or using phrases such as “guaranteed pass” or “guaranteed admission．”
China’s recruitment exam prep market could reach about 60 billion yuan in 2026．
Guangdong Province’s civil service exam recruitment fell by as much as 32.38% overall in 2026．
Wins CommonWealth Magazine’s Sustainable Citizenship Award for 20 consecutive years！信義房屋 is the only real estate brokerage winner
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
信義房屋 has won CommonWealth Magazine’s Sustainable Citizenship Award for 20 consecutive years, placing second in the services category among large enterprises and becoming the only real estate brokerage winner．Through the adoption of AI and its long-term ESG practices, the company has demonstrated outstanding results in corporate governance, social engagement and environmental sustainability．
Facts
信義房屋 has been recognized by 《天下雜誌》 with the CommonWealth Magazine Sustainable Citizenship Award for 20 consecutive years, and placed second in the services category among large enterprises, making it the only real estate brokerage winner this year．
Original信義房屋已連續12屆於臺灣證券交易所公司治理評鑑名列上市公司前5%。
Traffic accidents involving 信義房屋 employees fell from 294 in 2020 to 135 in 2025, a decrease of more than half over five years．
Since launching its “One Community” program in 2004, 信義房屋 has supported 3917 communities．
What happens if you keep ignoring traffic tickets？Man leaves 177 tickets unpaid, and the bank eventually seizes all his deposits
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A man in Tainan failed to pay 64,100 yuan owed for 177 traffic tickets and was subject to compulsory enforcement by the Tainan Branch of the Administrative Enforcement Agency．The full debt was recovered from his bank deposits．The case shows that failing to pay traffic fines on time can put one’s assets at risk of seizure．
Facts
A 34-year-old man surnamed Wang in Tainan accumulated 177 traffic violations and unpaid fines between 2023 and 2024, totaling 64,100 yuan．
After the case was referred to the Tainan Branch of the Ministry of Justice’s Administrative Enforcement Agency, enforcement officers seized the man’s bank deposits twice and ultimately collected the full 64,100 yuan owed．
Traffic fines may be referred for compulsory enforcement if more than 30 days have passed after delivery of the ruling without a lawsuit being filed to revoke it, or if the fine remains unpaid after the lawsuit is resolved．
When wage claims are seized, the amount seized generally may not exceed one-third of each payment．
Those unable to pay in full at once because of financial hardship may apply to an administrative enforcement branch for installment payments by submitting relevant supporting documents．
What happens if you don’t pay National Pension premiums？New rules take effect in year 115: “these 2 benefits both increase”; see the payment deadline and monthly benefit amount
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Starting Jan. 1, year 115, the National Pension insured amount will rise to 21,103 yuan, resulting in a slight increase in premiums but a substantial boost in benefits．Officials warn that enrollment is mandatory；those with premiums unpaid for more than 10 years will lose eligibility for the Type A pension and may also cause their spouses to be penalized．
Facts
Starting Jan. 1, year 115, the National Pension monthly insured amount will rise to 21,103 yuan, while the premium rate remains at 10.5%．
For insured persons under the general category, the monthly premium contribution is 1,329 yuan, with the government paying 887 yuan.
Under the new system in 115, the National Pension maternity benefit pays 42,206 yuan per birth.
The National Pension funeral benefit is calculated at 5 months, with the payment raised to 105,515 yuan.
National Pension premiums unpaid for more than 10 years can never be paid retroactively, and that period of coverage is completely lost.
If a spouse does not pay the outstanding premiums within 30 days of receiving a payment demand notice, they face a fine of 3,000 to 15,000 yuan.
Those with a history of unpaid premiums exceeding 10 years will be permanently barred from choosing the basic protection under Plan A when they retire.
Taiwan Strait Decoded》Is the Lai government the biggest winner? “3 changes” in U.S.-Taiwan ties after the Trump-Xi meeting; Wang Hsin-hsien warns: Trump is “just half a step away” from opposing Taiwan independence
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a second Trump-Xi meeting. Wang Hsin-hsien, director of National Chengchi University's Institute of International Relations, said the fundamentals of U.S.-Taiwan ties remain unchanged, but U.S. policy is shifting toward Beijing, including opposition to Taiwan independence, a pause in arms sales, and Lai Ching-te not transiting through the United States. He warned that the Lai government could emerge as a winner as risks in the Taiwan Strait decline.
Facts
U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping held their “second Trump-Xi meeting” in Washington.
Wang Hsin-hsien, director of National Chengchi University's Institute of International Relations, believes U.S. policy is beginning to tilt toward Beijing.
Trump said he does not want anyone to move toward independence.
The issue of U.S. arms sales to Taiwan has been put on hold.
President Lai Ching-te has not yet transited through the U.S. mainland.
Can retired grandparents with no job enroll in National Health Insurance under a grandchild? It is not enough simply to have a job; there is an order of priority based on degree of kinship.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The National Health Insurance Administration explained the rules for retired seniors to be covered as dependents, noting that while grandparents may be covered under their grandchildren, they must first be covered under their children according to the order of kinship. Only when there is no eligible person in the preceding priority group or special family circumstances apply may another enrollment method be used.
Facts
Grandparents are lineal ascendants and may qualify as dependents if they have no occupation.
If their children cannot be located or fail to fulfill their duty to provide support, grandparents who are actually supported by their grandchildren may enroll under special provisions.
Anyone eligible to be an insured person may not also participate in National Health Insurance as a dependent.
National Health Insurance Class Six applies to other household heads or representatives who do not fall into any of the preceding insured-person categories or their dependents.
[The New News] State-level plunder!? Offshore wind power Phase Two left unfinished; 台電 seizes 森崴 work vessels for construction without a court ruling
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
台電’s offshore wind power Phase Two project has stalled due to a contract performance dispute with turnkey contractor 富崴能源 and debt issues involving 森崴. To prevent 29 turbine towers from freezing, 台電 forcibly used the vessel Top Pioneer, owned by 寶崴 and already in liquidation proceedings, for construction during the Mid-Autumn Festival, sparking a creditor dispute.
Facts
台電’s offshore wind power Phase Two project has stalled, with 富崴能源 and 台電 embroiled in a contract performance dispute.
森崴’s parent company changed hands, and its offshore-registered vessel subsidiary 寶崴 applied for voluntary liquidation.
台電 took advantage of the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday to forcibly deploy the Top Pioneer to transport 29 wind turbine towers offshore from Changhua for construction.
The vessel Top Pioneer has entered liquidation proceedings in a Singapore court.
Behind the scenes》Shen Po-yang had a close call! Fearing the currents could wipe them all out, DPP leaders stepped in to axe the “狸貓換太子” production
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Shen Po-yang, the DPP's Taipei mayoral candidate, opposed internet celebrity Four-Forked Cat's participation in the “狸貓換太子” satirical skit mocking Chiang Wan-an's parentage, arguing that the campaign should focus on municipal issues.
Facts
Internet celebrity Four-Forked Cat confirmed during a livestream on 2026年9月26日 that he had received an invitation to perform in “狸貓換太子.”
Shen Po-yang made clear that he opposed the “狸貓換太子” skit.
The “狸貓換太子” skit was intended to mock Chiang Wan-an's family background.
Shen Po-yang stressed that the campaign's main focus should be municipal performance, not personal family background.
A民間 group in Tainan launched the 5-day “鍘美藝術節,” sparking heated debate.
U.S. releases another 4000萬 barrels of strategic oil; why did only 50萬 barrels get loaned out last time, despite a 4000萬-barrel release?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The U.S. government announced on 9月29日 that it would again make up to 4000萬 barrels of Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) crude available for companies to borrow, in response to soaring oil prices and market shortages caused by the Iran war. The program previously drew very little interest. Its restart aims to stabilize energy markets, but could bring SPR stocks even closer to the legal limit.
Facts
The U.S. government announced on 9月29日 U.S. Eastern Time that it would again make up to 4000萬 barrels of Strategic Petroleum Reserve crude available for energy companies to borrow.
Companies borrowing SPR crude must pay an additional return premium of up to 24%.
U.S. SPR stocks have now fallen to less than 2.84億 barrels, their lowest level since 1982.
U.S. retail gasoline prices are currently about $4.45 per gallon, nearly 50% higher than at the outbreak of the Iran war in late February.
Under the 4000萬-barrel loan program announced in June this year, companies agreed to borrow only about 50萬 barrels.
Commentary: The decline of the teacher's calling and the loss of backbone—Taiwan is riddled with problems, and they all bear “credit”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article analyzes the political careers and education policy records of four former education ministers—Huang Kun-huei, Wu Ching-chi, Pan Wen-chung and Huang Jung-tsun—and criticizes them for yielding to political pressure, contributing to the decline of the teaching profession and political interference on campus.
Facts
Huang Kun-huei resigned over the collapse of an auditorium in Fengyuan and declined an invitation from an emissary sent by Chiang Ching-kuo to become deputy director of the KMT's Cultural Work Committee.
Huang Kun-huei later joined the Taiwan Solidarity Union alongside Lee Teng-hui and became its chairman, but ultimately fell out with Lee over financial issues.
Wu Ching-chi served as education minister during President Ma Ying-jeou's term, but did not address curriculum guidelines during his tenure and was involved in controversy over campaigning for candidates.
During Pan Wen-chung's tenure as education minister, the “管案” controversy arose, and he was unable to effectively resolve the dispute over Kuan Chung-ming's appointment.
Huang Jung-tsun once issued a “distant warning” to the DPP and resigned as chairman of China Medical University's board after leaving office, having been criticized as a “gatekeeper.”
National Taiwan University went more than 500 days without a president, demonstrating political interference in university autonomy.
What are childcare centers at academic conferences really like?
Published ・ Source Japan | m3.com
An introduction to members-only content for physicians, in which experienced experts and doctors answer questions about what childcare centers at academic conferences are really like.
The most reliable investment is “buying at the bottom and holding for the very long term”
Published ・ Source Japan | m3.com
The tried-and-true approach to stock and real estate investing is to “buy quality assets at the bottom and hold them for the very long term.” This article explains the core of a very long-term investment strategy that helps busy doctors overcome the emotional hurdles.
This content is exclusive to physician members of m3.com. Docpedia LIFESTYLE features experts and doctors answering questions about careers and lifestyles.
One of the Big 3 boys' combined junior and senior high schools in Kansai, 東大寺学園 is known for its liberal school culture and natural surroundings in Nara. Around 180 students are admitted to national and public universities each year. In spring 2026, the number admitted to medical schools reached 82.
Medical apparel brand founded by practicing ER/ICU doctors launches
Published ・ Source Japan | m3.com
An introduction to the launch of sales for “Everyday Scrub,” the first collection from SOLVIA, a medical apparel brand founded by practicing ER/ICU doctors.
Wear it for longer or replace it? Rethinking the “value for money” of medical apparel
Published ・ Source Japan | m3.com
Rethinking the “value for money” of medical apparel, this article focuses on lab coats made using tailoring techniques and the choice between replacing items as disposables or wearing them for longer.
An introduction to Docpedia LIFESTYLE, an m3.com members-only service for physicians where experts and doctors answer questions about long trips for private-practice doctors.
Do you have the courage to ask questions at academic conferences?
Published ・ Source Japan | m3.com
Do you have the courage to ask questions at academic conferences? This content is exclusive to physician members of m3.com. At Docpedia LIFESTYLE, experienced experts and doctors answer questions about careers and lifestyles that people may find difficult to ask about in everyday life. They draw on their own experiences to help find solutions. ※Only physicians can view this content.
[Comic] Rent is 20% cheaper! What is the new housing program?
Published ・ Source Japan | m3.com
In response to soaring housing prices in Tokyo, a program has begun offering “affordable housing” at rents 20% below market rates to ease the burden on younger generations.
Young doctors' smartphone dependence: “Often” use their phones while eating
Published ・ Source Japan | m3.com
The final installment in the series “Survey on Doctors' Smartphone Use” looks at smartphone dependence among young doctors and their phone use during meals.
How should you navigate your first academic conference?
Published ・ Source Japan | m3.com
In this Docpedia LIFESTYLE feature for physician members of m3.com, experienced experts and doctors answer questions about how to navigate your first academic conference.
[Government facility fire] [Fire at “竹圍派出所” on 竹圍街, Day 1 at 03:59, Dayuan District, Taoyuan City; no flames when firefighters arrived at 04:10; no casualties] Initial (final) report
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 內政部消防署
A fire broke out at 竹圍派出所 in Dayuan District, Taoyuan City, at 03:59 on Day 1. When the fire department arrived at 04:10, the fire was already out. There were no casualties. The burn area was about 0.5 square meters, and the battery of the duty desk's uninterruptible power supply was destroyed.
[Waste fire] [Waste fire at the Keelung City Environmental Protection Bureau's 天外天 landfill, Xinyi District, Keelung City, on Day 30 at 13:39; extinguished, no casualties] Follow-up (final) report
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 內政部消防署
A waste fire at the Keelung City Environmental Protection Bureau's 天外天 landfill was extinguished by firefighters, with no casualties.
[News monitoring—construction site fire] [中時新聞網 reports: Fire breaks out at new construction site in New Taipei! “Thick smoke” fills basement level 5] Initial (final) report
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 內政部消防署
A fire broke out on Day 30 at the “都廳大院-紹華營造” construction site on Zhongxing South Street in Sanchong District, New Taipei City. The fire spread to basement level 5, and thick smoke filled the site. The fire department quickly responded and extinguished the blaze at 14:47. There were no casualties, and the burn area was about 5 square meters.
Facts
A building with 28 above-ground floors and 6 basement levels
[Tour bus fire] [Tour bus fire at kilometer 75.5K on the northbound National Highway 1 in Hukou Township, Hsinchu County, on Day 30 at 21:02; extinguished, no casualties] Initial (final) report
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 內政部消防署
A tour bus caught fire on the northbound National Highway 1 in Hukou Township, Hsinchu County, on the evening of Day 30. The engine compartment at the rear of a 和欣客運 bus caught fire, but firefighters quickly extinguished it. All 15 passengers evacuated safely, with no casualties.
Facts
Kilometer 75.5K on the northbound National Highway 1
Report received at 21:02
Arrived at the scene at 21:19
Fire brought under control at 21:25
Fire extinguished at 21:52
3 vehicles and 6 personnel dispatched
All 15 drivers and passengers were safely evacuated from the vehicle.
[Waste Fire and Firefighter Injured] [Waste fire near Observation Stations 14-15 along the embankment in Citong Township, Yunlin County, at 16:43 on the 30th; extinguished. 1 male firefighter was treated in hospital for heat exhaustion, discharged without serious injury and returned to his unit] Final report
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 內政部消防署
A waste fire broke out near the embankment in Citong Township, Yunlin County. The fire department dispatched 15 vehicles and 35 personnel to extinguish it. During the operation, 1 male firefighter was treated in hospital for heat exhaustion and discharged without serious injury.
Facts
The fire department dispatched 15 vehicles and 35 personnel
[Factory Fire] [Factory fire at 「三新紡織」 on Zhongzheng North Road, Yongkang District, Tainan City, at 16:27 on the 30th; extinguished, no casualties] Preliminary (final) report
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 內政部消防署
A fire broke out at the 「三新紡織」 factory on Zhongzheng North Road, Yongkang District, Tainan City, at 16:27 on the 30th. The site was a high-voltage power control room, and the fire covered approximately 40 square meters. When the fire department arrived at 16:37, there were no visible flames. The incident resulted in the suspected electrocution death of 1 64-year-old man, with no other casualties.
[Residential Fire] [Residential fire on Donglin Street, Lieyu Township, Kinmen County, at 14:14 on the 30th; extinguished at 14:37, no casualties] Preliminary (final) report
An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.9 struck the waters off eastern Taiwan at 13 on September 30, 2026. The epicenter was 136.0 kilometers east of 花蓮縣政府, at a depth of 13.3 kilometers. The maximum intensity recorded across the affected areas was 2, and no damage was reported. Transportation, energy, telecommunications and other infrastructure continued to operate normally.
Facts
13:00 on the 30th
136.0 kilometers
Magnitude 5.9
2026/09/30 13:00:24
13.3 kilometers
Maximum intensity: 2
Number of villages and neighborhoods requiring alert: 0
[Vessel Fire] [Fishing boat fire at Cijin Fishing Harbor, Kaohsiung City, at 12:27 on the 30th; extinguished at 13:59, no casualties] Final report
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 內政部消防署
A fishing boat fire broke out at Cijin Fishing Harbor in Kaohsiung City on the 30th. Firefighters extinguished it at 13:59. There were no casualties, and 3 fishing boats were destroyed.
Summary of Opinions at the Monetary Policy Meeting (held on September 17 and 18)
Published ・ Source Japan | 日本銀行
Summary of opinions at the 日本銀行 Monetary Policy Meeting held on September 17 and 18, 2026. The economy is recovering moderately, but inflationary pressures are rising in part due to the situation in the Middle East. Underlying inflation is approaching 2%, and policy board members are divided between those supporting a rate hike and those arguing for a hold. The government (財務省 and 内閣府) has called for appropriate monetary policy management and accountability.
Could drinking the wrong coffee and not getting enough sleep be more lethal than exercising less? The latest “Longevity Diet and Lifestyle Guide” revealed - Heho Health
Published ・ Source Taiwan | Heho健康
A new study in Nature Medicine analyzed data from 45,000 people and found that those with younger brains and immune systems had a 56% lower risk of death. It recommends avoiding ultra-processed foods and following the AHEI diet to reverse biological age and protect against Alzheimer's disease.
Colorectal cancer is affecting younger people! Doctor warns: Eating too little of 1 food can cause nutritional imbalance and bring colorectal cancer on earlier - Heho Health
Published ・ Source Taiwan | Heho健康
The Ministry of Health and Welfare's latest cancer registry data show that Taiwan recorded more than 19,000 new colorectal cancer cases in year 112. Doctors warn that insufficient dietary fiber intake may lead to nutritional imbalance and increase cancer risk.