Powerlifter Chen Wei-rou wins gold at Asian Bench Press Championships
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Powerlifter Chen Wei-rou won gold in the women’s 47-kilogram class at the 2026 Asian Classic and Equipped Bench Press Championships in Turkey. Weightlifter Kuo Hsing-chun also won a bronze medal at the Asian Games. Taitung County Magistrate Jao Ching-ling and the county government praised both athletes and expressed hope that they would help promote sports locally.
US woman on death row for murdering classmate; if executed, she would be first such case in Tennessee in 200 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Christa Pike, a Tennessee woman on death row for torturing and murdering a classmate when she was 18, was granted a reprieve by a federal appeals court ahead of her scheduled execution on September 30 so it could review whether her history of childhood abuse affected her sentence. The state attorney general has appealed to the Supreme Court, while Governor Bill Lee denied her clemency request.
Facts
This year (2026)
Christa Pike, now 50 in 2026
More than 30 people had gathered
The execution of Christa Pike, now 50 in 2026, had been scheduled for September 30
She committed murder when she was 18
About 1 hour before the execution
The federal appeals court ordered a stay in a 2-to-1 vote
Caused 2 injuries
In 1995, Pike, then 18
Boyfriend, 17
Regarded her 19-year-old classmate Slimer as a romantic rival
Don’t be fooled by high yields! Strategist warns US Treasuries may not have fallen enough
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
彭博 strategist Simon White warned that US Treasuries may not have fallen enough. Historical returns do not indicate oversold conditions, real yields face upward pressure, and the risk of government intervention makes short-selling difficult. There is currently little reason to buy.
Facts
The yield on 10-year US Treasuries rose as high as 5.34%. Although they now look cheap relative to stocks and some economic fundamentals, buyers have yet to enter the market in force.
彭博 macro strategist Simon White said that, judged by the historical returns of US Treasuries, they are not yet oversold and bond prices could continue to fall.
Another valuation model shows that 10-year Treasury yields are more than 60 basis points above their estimated fair level, but domestic and overseas buyers have yet to emerge in significant numbers.
Based on more than 50 years of data, when annual returns on US Treasuries have fallen for six consecutive months and returned to around their average, they have continued to decline over the following three months in roughly three-quarters of cases.
The US Treasury Department this week hired Jefferies(JEF-US) chief market strategist David Zervos as an adviser as it seeks to regain control of the maturity composition of its debt.
US initial jobless claims fall to 197,000 last week; continuing claims hit more than 3-year low
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The number of Americans filing initial claims for unemployment benefits fell to 197,000 last week, while continuing claims reached a more than 3-year low, reflecting a stable labor market. However, companies remain cautious about hiring, prolonging a pattern of low hiring and low layoffs. Attention is turning to the upcoming nonfarm payrolls report.
Facts
In the week ended Sept. 26, the seasonally adjusted number of initial U.S. jobless claims was 197,000.
In the week ended Sept. 19, continuing U.S. jobless claims stood at 1.701 million, the lowest level since March 2023.
Companies announced 43,281 job cuts in September, down 20% from the same period last year.
Companies announced 90,787 planned hires in September, down 23% from the same period last year.
U.S. stocks have a notorious reputation in October, but it is not the worst-performing month, mainly because volatility is the highest
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
U.S. stocks are most volatile in October, with an average return of about +0.54%, making it not the worst month. October has seen major market crashes multiple times, but has also repeatedly reversed bear markets, making it a month of both risk and opportunity.
Facts
The average return in October is about +0.54%, and nearly 59% of years have ended with gains.
September has actually been the worst-performing month historically, with an average return of about -1.17%, and 56% of years recording negative returns.
The standard deviation of October monthly returns is as high as 5.6%, and October accounts for 8 of the 20 largest single-day declines in the history of the S&P 500.
The battle for cardholders intensifies! 國泰世華 partners with inline to launch the first “exclusive reservations” service, securing bookings at popular restaurants
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
國泰世華銀行 and the inline platform have partnered to launch the “國泰世華饗美食” program, which begins on Oct. 1, 2026, offering cardholders exclusive reservation privileges at more than 80 popular and Michelin-starred restaurants to boost credit card competitiveness through scarce resources.
Facts
國泰世華銀行 announced the launch of its “國泰世華饗美食” dining program and an exclusive partnership with the inline platform.
Starting Oct. 1, 2026, cardholders can verify their identity to book seats at more than 80 restaurants.
Participating restaurants include Michelin-starred establishments such as Ad Astra, 山海樓 and 元一天婦羅.
國泰世華銀行 Chief Data Officer 梁明喬 said domestic restaurant spending on its cards grew by more than 三成 cumulatively from 2023 to 2025.
U.S. companies’ September job cuts fall to lowest level for the month since 2022
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
A report by Challenger, Gray & Christmas said U.S. companies cut 43,281 jobs in September, the lowest level since 2022. Job cuts in the first nine months were down 40% cumulatively, but companies are taking a wait-and-see approach amid economic uncertainty. The technology sector had the most cuts, with AI a leading reason for layoffs.
Facts
U.S. companies cut 43,281 jobs in September this year, the lowest level for the month since 2022.
U.S. companies cut a total of 573,195 jobs in the first nine months of this year, nearly 40% fewer than in the same period of 2025.
Companies announced 90,787 job openings in September, down 23% from the same period last year.
The technology sector cut 10,799 jobs in September, bringing its total job cuts to 165,925, or 29% of all U.S. cuts.
Artificial intelligence has been the most frequently cited reason for job cuts so far this year, accounting for about 21%.
U.S.-Iran war not over! Trump says Iran bombings could intensify after midterm elections
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
U.S. President Trump hinted that military strikes on Iran could intensify after the midterm elections and rejected Iran’s terms for negotiations. The war has driven up energy prices, affecting the election outlook and adding pressure on Republicans to defend their congressional majorities.
Facts
U.S. President Trump said military strikes on Iran could intensify after the November midterm elections.
The U.S.-Iran war has entered its 八th month.
Trump rejected Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for lifting the port blockade or easing oil sanctions.
Trump stressed that the United States still has powerful mid-tier and upper-mid-tier weapons.
Higher energy prices caused by the war are straining household budgets and adding to pressure on Republicans to retain control of Congress.
國科會 approved 13 investment projects worth NT$51.2 billion, with 南亞科 confirmed as a tenant at Pingtung Science Park for 3D wafer packaging, strengthening the southern semiconductor cluster.
Facts
國科會 approved 13 investment projects with a total investment of NT$51.219 billion.
南亞科 (2408-TW) received approval to establish a Pingtung branch at Pingtung Science Park.
南亞科’s Pingtung branch will mainly engage in advanced semiconductor 3D wafer packaging and testing.
Another 20 capital increase projects were approved, with a combined increase of about NT$84.92 billion.
京和科技’s Central Taiwan Science Park branch has an investment of about NT$950 million.
Super El Niño sparks global sugar price storm! India, the world’s second-largest producer, limits stockpiles to stabilize prices
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The Indian government revised sugar stock rules to stabilize prices and urged the pass-through of price cuts to consumers. El Niño has reduced output in the world’s 三 major producing regions, sending raw sugar futures sharply higher, and analysts expect prices to continue rising over the next year.
Facts
India’s Food Ministry set a sugar stock limit of 1,000 quintals for distributors, with a maximum holding period of 15 days, effective from Oct. 15 to Nov. 30.
Raw sugar futures have risen more than 25% since July, marking their best quarterly performance in a decade.
Rainfall in Brazil’s core growing region reached as much as four times the seasonal average over the past 一 month, and exports could fall by about 2 million tons.
India has just experienced its weakest monsoon since 2015, with sugar output forecasts cut to about 30 million tons.
Rainfall in Thailand’s main northeastern growing region was only two-thirds of the 30-year average, and output next season is expected to fall by at least 17% to below 10 million tons.
This year, global sugar costs in the U.N. Food Price Index have risen 18%, second only to vegetable oils.
花旗’s research team expects sugar prices could rise another 20% over the next 12 months.
Three trillion-dollar-plus budgets set to take center stage in new legislative session! Executive Yuan unveils 10 key proposals focused on livelihoods and the economy; social welfare allowances to be increased retroactively from 7/1
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Deputy Executive Yuan head 鄭麗君 announced that the Legislative Yuan will prioritize 47 bills this session, focusing on 三 major trillion-dollar-plus budgets and 10 key proposals aimed at stabilizing prices, promoting the economy and improving social welfare. She stressed that supplementary budgets must be approved by the end of the year to ensure allowances can be implemented retroactively.
Facts
The Executive Yuan and various ministries have identified 47 important bills and budget proposals that urgently need to be prioritized in the Legislative Yuan’s current session.
The latest key proposals include the “十大 priorities,” comprising 17 proposals.
Social welfare allowances, allowances for elderly farmers, national pension benefits and compensation for military personnel, civil servants and public-school teachers will take effect retroactively from July 1, 115.
The focus includes the 《116年度中央政府總預算案》, which covers three trillion-dollar-plus areas: the defense budget, social welfare budget and central government funding for local governments.
The Executive Yuan stressed that if the supplementary budget is not approved by the end of this year, the planned retroactive increases to social welfare allowances and compensation for military personnel, civil servants and public-school teachers cannot take effect as scheduled.
Japan-China ties sour! Japan drops out of China’s top 10 travel destinations for tourists
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Amid deteriorating Japan-China relations and remarks on Taiwan by Japanese Prime Minister 高市早苗, Beijing issued a travel warning and suspended imports of Japanese seafood. Data show that the number of Chinese visitors to Japan plunged 56.4% in the first half of this year, pushing Japan out of the top 10 overseas destinations for Chinese tourists, while Indonesia, Turkey and South Korea have emerged as new favorites.
Facts
This year, on the 1st day of China’s “Golden Week” holiday, Japan was no longer among the top 10 overseas destinations for Chinese tourists.
On Nov. 7 last year, Japanese Prime Minister 高市早苗 said in a parliamentary response that a “Taiwan contingency” could constitute a survival-threatening situation in which Japan could exercise its right to collective self-defense.
Beijing successively issued travel and study-abroad warnings for Japan and took measures including suspending imports of Japanese seafood.
The number of Chinese visitors to Japan in the first half of this year plunged 56.4% from a year earlier.
途牛旅遊網 said Indonesia, Turkey and South Korea have now become the most popular overseas destinations for Chinese tourists.
Taiwan dollar: Q4 gets off to a strong start! Market hits record high; currency reverses losses to close at NT$31.842
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Taiwan stocks hit a record high on the first day of the fourth quarter, with the weighted index closing at 48,353.49 points and foreign investors making net purchases of more than NT$21.9 billion. After fluctuating, the New Taiwan dollar closed at 31.842 per U.S. dollar, as U.S. PCE data came in below expectations and expectations of a Federal Reserve rate hike eased.
Facts
Taiwan’s weighted stock index closed at a record 48,353.49 points
Foreign investors made net purchases of NT$21.937 billion today
The New Taiwan dollar closed at 31.842 per U.S. dollar
The total trading volume in the Taipei and Yuanta foreign exchange markets was $2.558 billion
The U.S. Personal Consumption Expenditures price index rose 0.3% month over month
Traders put the probability of a Federal Reserve rate hike in October at 37%
Lending customers money to buy computing power! 博通 offers Anthropic up to $42 billion in financing
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Anthropic’s IPO filing revealed that 博通 agreed to provide up to $42 billion in convertible financing to support its AI infrastructure. Anthropic is expected to become 博通’s largest computing customer in 2027.
Facts
博通 has agreed to provide up to $42 billion in financing to help Anthropic cover AI infrastructure costs
Up to $42 billion in convertible-note financing could cover about one-third of the five-year TPU computing capacity lease commitment
The total TPU computing capacity lease commitment stands at $125.2 billion
Anthropic is expected to become 博通’s largest computing business customer in 2027
博通 forecasts AI semiconductor revenue of about $115 billion in fiscal 2027, rising to $230 billion in fiscal 2028
Anthropic is preparing for an initial public offering (IPO), with a possible valuation of $2 trillion
Anthropic deposited cash into a restricted account in April this year for the benefit of 博通
Anthropic announced in April this year that it was expanding its partnership with Google and 博通, and is expected to secure several GW of next-generation TPU computing capacity starting in 2027
Brazil seeks sweeping U.S. tariff cuts; sides to form working group to advance trade talks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Brazilian Trade Minister Rosa and U.S. Trade Representative Greer met at the G20, agreeing to form a working group to advance trade negotiations. Brazil is seeking sweeping cuts to U.S. tariffs, including those on steel and aluminum and tariffs imposed under specific investigations. The U.S. will present a proposal within weeks.
Facts
Brazilian Trade Minister Marcio Elias Rosa met with U.S. Trade Representative Greer on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in Milwaukee.
A Brazilian government statement said the two sides would form a working group to discuss issues related to a potential trade agreement.
Brazil is seeking relief from all U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum imposed under Section 232.
Brazil is seeking relief from the 12.5% tariff imposed over allegations of forced labor.
Brazil is seeking relief from the 25% tariff imposed following a Section 301 investigation into unfair trade practices.
Brazilian President Lula said Brazil had no intention of using its reciprocal tariff law against the United States while trade negotiations were underway.
The U.S. did not mention the issue of potential 100% tariffs on Brazil for buying Russian petroleum products.
At least $20 billion per fab! 台積電’s Texas expansion plan emerges, with tax incentives key
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
台積電 is considering expanding its Texas campus with multiple fabs, each costing at least $20 billion. The key factor is whether tax incentives under the U.S. CHIPS Act are extended.
Facts
台積電 is considering building a new campus with multiple wafer fabs in Texas, each costing at least $20 billion.
Whether 台積電’s Texas investment plan can move forward depends on whether the United States extends tax credits under the CHIPS Act.
The CHIPS Act’s tax credit for advanced manufacturing investments was raised to 35% last year, but is due to expire at the end of this year.
North American customers have accounted for more than 75% of 台積電’s wafer revenue so far this year, underscoring strong demand for AI chips.
To keep up with demand for AI chips, 台積電 has increased its equipment procurement plan to about twice its previous level over the past year.
樺康智雲 partners with 統一資訊 to expand smart-community services through “i住家”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
樺康智雲 and 統一資訊 are partnering to bring the “i住家” platform to the E-Life APP, combining 20 million members with resources from 15,000 communities to expand smart living services.
Facts
樺康智雲 announced a partnership with 統一資訊 to connect its AI smart-living services platform, “i住家.”
“i住家” is now available on the OPENPOINT APP, connecting with the daily lives of more than 20 million uniopen members.
The partnership integrates community service platforms, reaching about 15,000 residential communities across Taiwan.
Residents can receive OPENPOINT points after downloading the E-Life APP and linking their uniopen membership.
“i住家” uses LumineOne, its self-developed smart concierge, to help consumers search and identify their needs.
2 credit rating agencies take note of 台泥’s Ukraine acquisition, citing European expansion and financial capacity
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
台泥’s board approved the acquisition of IFCEM for no more than 750 million euros. S&P and 中華信評 viewed its expansion in Europe and financial capacity favorably, maintaining stable outlooks.
Facts
台泥’s board authorized its Dutch subsidiary TCC Group EMEA Holdings B.V. to proceed with the acquisition, with an enterprise value of no more than 750 million euros.
標普全球評級 assigned 台泥 an international credit rating of “BBB-” with a “stable” outlook.
中華信用評等 assigned 台泥 a rating of “twA+” with a “stable” outlook.
IFCEM is Ukraine’s second-largest cement producer, with annual cement production capacity of about 5.2 million metric tons.
After accounting for the impact of the transaction, 台泥’s debt-to-EBITDA ratio is projected to rise to about 3 times in 2027 to 2028.
Companies mentioned：台泥、TCC Group EMEA Holdings B.V.、標普全球評級、S&P Global Ratings、中華信用評等公司、中華信評、IFCEM
Taiwan stocks rise 413 points to a record close; foreign investors continue buying, adding NT$21.9 billion and snapping up nearly 40,000 lots of the two passive-component leaders
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Taiwan stocks closed at a record 48,353.49 points today, while foreign investors posted net purchases of NT$21.937 billion for a second consecutive session. Fund flows showed foreign investors favoring passive-component stocks such as Yageo and 華新科, while trimming holdings in panel makers 群創 and 友達.
Facts
Taiwan stocks rose 413.36 points today, closing at 48,353.49 points.
Foreign investors posted net purchases of NT$21.937 billion today, buying for a second consecutive session.
Foreign investors made heavy purchases of nearly 40,000 lots combined in the two passive-component leaders, Yageo and 華新科.
Foreign investors reversed course and sold nearly 130,000 lots combined in the two panel makers, 群創 and 友達.
Impersonating White House officials to steal AI intelligence! Chinese hackers TA419 target think tanks and university professors
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Cybersecurity firm Proofpoint disclosed that Chinese hackers TA419 have impersonated former White House officials and AI experts since 2025, carrying out phishing attacks against experts at U.S. and Japanese think tanks and universities in an effort to steal intelligence related to AI policy.
Facts
Proofpoint said Chinese hackers TA419 had been regularly trying to steal the passwords of staff at U.S. and Japanese think tanks, defense contractors, universities and law firms as early as 2025.
The hackers sent emails impersonating Lynne Parker, a former principal deputy director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.
Reuters independently confirmed that one of the victims was Alex Engler, a former White House official who now heads the Center for Media, Technology and Democracy at the University of Pennsylvania.
Proofpoint’s analysis showed that the operation involved fewer than 10 people working at a small number of organizations.
Engler said he received an email that appeared to be from Parker, inviting him to join a new AI policy project.
Could a “Lu-Huang ticket” form in 2028? Huang Kuo-chang and Lu Hsiu-yen respond together
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan People’s Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang has launched a new program, The People Have a Say 4, with Taichung Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen as its first guest. The two responded together to the prospect of a “Lu-Huang ticket” in 2028. Huang stressed that the priority was handling the 2026 elections, while Lu reiterated that the two had a foundation for cooperation dating back to their time in the Legislative Yuan and argued that opposition forces should unite to face future challenges.
Facts
Taiwan People’s Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang launched a new YouTube program, The People Have a Say 4: Straight Questions on Big Issues, on the evening of the 1st.
The program’s first episode featured Taichung Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen as a guest.
Huang Kuo-chang said that the most important thing at this stage was to do well in the 2026 elections.
Lu Hsiu-yen said she and Huang Kuo-chang had been longtime colleagues on the Legislative Yuan’s Finance Committee.
Lu Hsiu-yen said that in 2028, everyone should take on the challenge together, and that they should also share responsibility if they have an opportunity to govern in the future.
Russia-Ukraine war costs too much! Putin raises various taxes to plug deficit as defense budget surges 27% next year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
To address the fiscal deficit caused by the Russia-Ukraine war, the Russian government has submitted a revised draft budget that plans to raise the 2027 defense budget by 27% to 17 trillion rubles. To raise funds, the government is considering an excess-profits tax and a new tax on dividends for the mining and fertilizer industries, while accelerating the sale of seized assets and shifting toward a wartime command economy.
Facts
Russia’s 2027 defense budget is set at about 17 trillion rubles, up 27% from its previous target.
Russia’s budget deficit in 2026 is projected to reach about 2% of gross domestic product (GDP).
When commodity prices rise by at least 10%, the Russian government plans to take up to 30% of excess profits.
Gold miners will face a 20% windfall tax.
Russia expects to receive about 200 billion rubles in additional annual revenue from new taxes on the mining and metals industries.
Responding to foreign media reports that Beijing is stepping up preparations to invade Taiwan after 2028, the Presidential Office says Taiwan has never abandoned democracy and freedom in 30 years of direct elections despite threats
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Presidential Office spokesperson Kuo Ya-hui responded to reports in foreign media about China’s military preparations after 2028, stressing that Taiwan has never abandoned democracy in the face of threats. Taiwan will strengthen its defense resilience and work with international allies to deter threats through strength.
Facts
Presidential Office spokesperson Kuo Ya-hui said that since Taiwan’s first direct presidential election in 1996, China has never stopped using the threat of force to pressure the Taiwanese people to give up freedom and democracy.
Reuters cited U.S. officials as assessing that the likelihood of China invading Taiwan by force before 2028 is gradually declining.
U.S. officials warned that if the Democratic Progressive Party wins again in the 2028 election and President Lai Ching-te is reelected, Beijing’s propensity to resort to force could rise significantly after 2028.
The United States, Japan and South Korea issued a joint statement recently, jointly opposing any actions that unilaterally change the status quo.
Under President Lai Ching-te’s leadership, Taiwan will continue to work closely with all international democratic partners, including the United States.
Trump-Xi summit ends! Taiwan’s first F-16V Block 70 fighter jets really are coming home, expected at Chihhang Air Base on the morning of Oct. 2
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan’s first F-16V Block 70 fighter jets are expected to arrive in Taiwan on Oct. 2. The aircraft are part of the Phoenix Rising project, which covers a total of 66 jets and has a budget of more than NT$247.2 billion. Although delivery of all the aircraft was originally scheduled by the end of 2026, delays caused by the pandemic have led the Air Force Command Headquarters to assess the risk as high.
Facts
The military has budgeted more than NT$247.2 billion to purchase 66 F-16V Block 70 fighter jets from the United States under the Phoenix Rising project.
OriginalF-16V首架機因疫情影響延宕，直到去年5月才出廠。
Air Force Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Li Ching-jan acknowledged for the first time last year that the risk of delivering all the aircraft was quite high.
The first 2 F-16V fighter jets, tail numbers 6727 and 6728, took off from Hawaii.
Fire dance show tickets worth over NT$1,000 each given away for free! Chen Ching-ling blasts Chuang Ching-cheng for crossing the rule-of-law line and joking about public safety at Hsinchu Science Park!
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Hsinchu City Councilor Chen Ching-ling accused Democratic Progressive Party candidate Chuang Ching-cheng during a council hearing of disguised vote-buying by holding a free fire dance show on Oct. 2, and said the event’s location near a substation endangered public safety.
Facts
Chen Ching-ling publicly reported Chuang Ching-cheng to the Department of Government Ethics during a general inquiry at the Hsinchu City Council, alleging disguised vote-buying.
Tickets for the fire dance troupe’s commercial performances retail for NT$2,000 to NT$3,600 each.
Regulations clearly limit election campaign giveaways to no more than NT$30.
The fire dance event was planned next to the Hsinchu Substation, a key piece of national infrastructure.
The event application was not submitted until Sept. 30.
Chen Ching-ling said a fire or power outage next to the substation would deal a major blow to Taiwan’s semiconductor industry and economic lifeline.
Kei Nishikori’s final match! Falls to Tiafoe at Japan Open, tearfully bids farewell to 30 years on court
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Japanese tennis star Kei Nishikori lost to American Frances Tiafoe at the Japan Open in Tokyo’s Ariake Tennis Forest Park, ending his 30-year professional career.
Facts
Kei Nishikori lost 4-6, 4-6 to American star Frances Tiafoe in the first round of men’s singles at the Japan Open.
Kei Nishikori’s final professional match was played at Ariake Tennis Forest Park in Tokyo.
The biggest highlight of Kei Nishikori’s career was reaching the final of the 2014 U.S. Open.
Kei Nishikori climbed to a career-best No. 4 in the men’s world rankings in 2015.
Kei Nishikori defeated Rafael Nadal to win the bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
NCSIST showcases military-industrial prowess at AI exhibition! Unveils swarm-attack technology for the Jingfeng and Albatross II drones, displays 21 equipment R&D achievements
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
國家中山科學研究院 is taking part in the Taichung AI exhibition from Oct. 1 to 4, showcasing 21 defense research achievements, including AI-integrated drone swarm-attack technology, multiple types of aerospace power modules and key precision military technologies. The goal is to demonstrate its strength in independent R&D and promote the development of dual-use industry supply chains.
Facts
國家中山科學研究院 is taking part in the 2026 Taichung AI Applications and Smart Manufacturing Exhibition from Oct. 1 to 4.
NCSIST showcased the Jingfeng Series 4 drone and the Albatross II multipurpose tactical drone.
NCSIST is working with U.S. company Kratos to develop and modify low-cost, high-speed drones.
NCSIST has unveiled a full series of aerospace power modules with thrust ranging from 100 to 350 kilograms.
NCSIST showcased a missile seeker interface structure made using integrated five-axis mill-turn machining and heat-treatment shaping technology.
Lower tariffs do not mean lower prices! Expert: U.S.-China trade talks still deadlocked over rare earths and semiconductors
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The U.S. and China reached an agreement to reduce tariffs on about $30 billion worth of goods, including household goods and toys. Packard, an expert at the Cato Institute, said the overall average tariff rate would fall from 22% to 20.5%, but high-tech and strategic products were excluded, and the two sides remain deadlocked over structural frictions involving rare earths and semiconductors.
Facts
U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping recently reached an agreement to reduce tariffs on goods worth about $30 billion.
The agreement will lower the overall average U.S. tariff rate on imports from China from about 22% to 20.5%.
The United States imported more than $400 billion worth of goods from China last year.
High-tech and strategic products were excluded from the tariff relief, including auto parts with internet connectivity and export controls on advanced semiconductors.
The United States is concerned about China’s control of the rare-earth mineral supply chain, while China is uneasy about U.S. control of the semiconductor supply chain.
Packard said the agreement basically kicks the can down the road until next year, and a comprehensive deal remains a long way off.
Port company’s smart command center wins Ding Ge Award; 21 systems and 364 data points integrated to create a smart port response system
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan International Ports Corporation received the Ding Ge Award for Smart Management Transformation, making it the only state-owned enterprise to win an award. By integrating 21 systems and 364 data points, it established a smart command center that cut the time to report emergencies from 30 minutes to 10 minutes, improving response efficiency.
Facts
臺灣港務股份有限公司 received the《Harvard Business Review》“2026 6th Digital Transformation Ding Ge Awards” Outstanding Smart Management Transformation Award for Large Organizations.
Taiwan International Ports Corporation was the only state-owned enterprise to win an award at this year’s Ding Ge Awards.
The smart command center has integrated 21 internal and external systems and 364 key data points.
The average time to report emergencies has fallen from about 30 minutes to under 10 minutes.
Original突發事件通報效率提升近7成。
The smart command center is driving digital transformation across four areas: information integration, information standards, process reengineering and smart decision-making.
A U.S. court approved a settlement between 派拉蒙 and 華納兄弟探索, removing the final legal obstacle to their acquisition. The deal is worth about $110 billion and is expected to close in early October. 派拉蒙 pledged to increase film investment in response to antitrust concerns.
Facts
U.S. District Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín formally signed an order on Sept. 30, Eastern Time, approving a settlement between 派拉蒙 and a group of attorneys general from 12 states led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta.
The acquisition of 華納兄弟探索 by 派拉蒙 has an enterprise value of about $110 billion, and the parties expect the deal to close as early as Oct. 6.
The settlement requires the merged company to release at least 30 films in U.S. theaters each year during the first 2 years, at least 32 films annually over the following 3 years, and at least 4 independent films each year.
Current 美泰兒 (Mattel) CEO Ynon Kreiz will join 派拉蒙 on Oct. 5 and serve as co-CEO of the merged company alongside David Ellison.
Attorneys general from 12 left-leaning states, led by California Attorney General Bonta, filed suit, alleging that the acquisition would eliminate competition and could drive up content prices.
Up 128% in September! Volatile stock hits limit down on first day off trading restrictions, with more than 1,000 sell orders queued during the session
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Computer peripherals maker 全友 (2305) came under heavy selling pressure and hit the daily limit down on its first day off 證交所 trading restrictions, after its share price surged 128% in September. Despite the volatility, its fundamentals have improved significantly as it expands its optical communications business, and its gain in the first three quarters ranked among the highest for listed stocks.
Facts
全友 (2305) hit the daily limit down on its first day off 證交所 trading restrictions, closing at NT$61.9, down 9.9%.
全友 shares rose about 128.62% in September, a key driver of the stock’s doubling over a short period.
全友’s share price gain, adjusted for dividends and rights issues, reached 524.55% in the first 3 quarters of this year, ranking 2nd among listed stocks.
全友’s cumulative revenue for the first 8 months was about NT$992 million, up 113.21% year over year and already exceeding its full-year revenue for 2025.
全友 reported net income attributable to the parent company of about NT$104 million in the first half, with earnings per share (EPS) turning positive at NT$0.51.
During the trading restriction period, 全友 shares were matched once every 2 minutes; more than 1,500 sell orders were queued during the session on the first day after the restrictions were lifted.
全友’s consolidated revenue in August was about NT$181 million, up 239.99% year over year, showing strong recent revenue growth.
A jar of spicy meat sauce bridges north and south! Su Chih-jung puts up campaign billboard in Fengshan, pictured with Su Chiao-hui and Lai Jui-lung
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Su Chih-jung, a candidate for Fengshan city council, received authorization from Su Chiao-hui to appear with Lai Jui-lung on a billboard reading “Choose Chih-hui! North and South, Let’s Rise Together!” He also proposed exchanges between the twin cities of Fengshan and Banqiao, hoping to encourage the sharing of experiences between cities in the north and south.
Facts
Su Chih-jung, a candidate for city council in Kaohsiung’s Fengshan District, received authorization from New Taipei mayoral candidate Su Chiao-hui to appear on a campaign billboard alongside Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Lai Jui-lung.
The campaign billboard’s slogan reads, “Choose Chih-hui! North and South, Let’s Rise Together!”
Su Chih-jung and Su Chiao-hui share a special personal memory involving a jar of spicy meat sauce sent from Kaohsiung to northern Taiwan.
Su Chih-jung proposed “Fengshan × Banqiao twin-city exchanges,” hoping to foster interaction in areas including business districts, culture, youth entrepreneurship and tourism.
Several Fengshan neighborhood chiefs recently posed for photos with Su Chih-jung, showing grassroots support in the area.
Arms sales to Taiwan stalled after the Trump-Xi meeting? Australian think tank reveals the truth about the “unresolved” bargaining chip behind U.S.-China talks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
An analysis by the Australian think tank ASPI found that the process for U.S. arms sales to Taiwan had still not begun after the Trump-Xi meeting. Washington is using it as leverage to pressure Beijing into making concessions, but the concessions sought remain unclear.
Facts
A report by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (澳大利亞戰略政策研究所), an Australian think tank, said the U.S. State Department has yet to initiate the process for arms sales to Taiwan.
The arms sales to Taiwan disclosed in February this year had an estimated total value of about $13 billion to $14 billion.
The “Trump-Xi meeting” held in Washington on Sept. 24 did not produce any decision on the U.S. sale of a large number of weapons to Taiwan.
The Chinese military has not conducted a large-scale blockade exercise since December last year.
China Coast Guard law enforcement activity has expanded into waters east of Taiwan.
Companies mentioned：The Australian Strategic Policy Institute、澳大利亞戰略政策研究所
“Yangliu Tornado” sweeps across northern Kaohsiung; Zhang Yili puts up first billboard featuring Shen Boyang and Lai Jui-lung
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Zhang Yili, a candidate for city council in Kaohsiung’s Zuoying and Nanzi districts, unveiled a billboard featuring Shen Boyang and Lai Jui-lung, drawing attention to the northern Kaohsiung election. Zhang said the campaign event drew a lively crowd and urged voters to turn out.
Facts
Zhang Yili, a candidate for city council in Zuoying and Nanzi, puts up billboard featuring Shen Boyang and Lai Jui-lung
The campaign events featuring Shen Boyang and Lai Jui-lung were held near Yingxiong Road and the Kaohsiung Music Center.
Zhang Yili described the campaign event as almost suffocating.
Some people watched the campaign event from boats in Love River Bay.
“Two lawyers, two mothers” join forces! Su Chiao-hui and Chen Pin-an receive support from hundreds of Miaoli residents, call for a win-win for New Taipei and Miaoli
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
New Taipei mayoral candidate Su Chiao-hui established a Miaoli natives’ support group and received backing from hundreds of residents. She appeared alongside Miaoli County mayoral candidate Chen Pin-an, highlighting their shared experiences as women lawyers and mothers. They called for support to help Chen turn Miaoli around and put forward proposals for an AI industry corridor and tourism exchanges between the two cities.
Can you claim old-age benefits at 65 without labor insurance? Expert reveals “one qualifying condition” to receive 270,000: even a long break in coverage won’t disqualify you
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Retirement financial adviser Liao Chia-hung answered questions about Labor Insurance old-age benefits, saying that after an amendment to the law, anyone who has ever been insured under Labor Insurance can claim benefits upon reaching age 60 if they have an insurance record, regardless of how long coverage was interrupted or the 5-year limitation period, protecting workers’ retirement rights.
Facts
Retirement financial adviser Liao Chia-hung said that anyone who has ever been covered by Labor Insurance can still claim old-age benefits upon reaching old age, no matter how long their coverage has been interrupted.
The Labor Insurance lump-sum old-age benefit is calculated based on the average monthly insured salary during the 60 months with the highest insured salaries over the person’s coverage period.
Claims for Labor Insurance old-age benefits are not subject to the 5-year statute of limitations.
向榮 allogeneic stem cells receive Ministry of Health and Welfare permit for export-only pharmaceuticals; enrollment for Phase III knee osteoarthritis trial completed - Global Bio & Investment Monthly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 環球生技月刊
向榮生醫科技 received an export-only pharmaceutical permit from the Ministry of Health and Welfare, becoming Taiwan’s first cell industry company to obtain one; it has also completed enrollment for its Phase III knee osteoarthritis clinical trial.
10/01 Biotech Stock Update - Global Bio & Investment Monthly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 環球生技月刊
10/01 biotech stock update: 向榮生技 and 宣捷幹細胞 receive Ministry of Health and Welfare export permits; 合一 product registration application accepted in Algeria; 藥祇 submits Phase II clinical trial application to the FDA; 生華科 research and development head resigns.
向榮生技 (6794) allogeneic stem cell therapy product receives Ministry of Health and Welfare export-only pharmaceutical permit, first in Taiwan to do so - Global Bio & Investment Monthly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 環球生技月刊
向榮生技 (6794)’s allogeneic stem cell therapy product has received a Ministry of Health and Welfare export-only pharmaceutical permit, the first in Taiwan to do so.
合一 announced that its product registration application for Bonvadis topical cream for the complete wound indication has been accepted by Algeria’s National Agency for Pharmaceutical Products (ANPP).
10/01 Biotech Stock Update - Global Bio & Investment Monthly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 環球生技月刊
10/01 biotech stock update: 向榮生技 and 宣捷幹細胞 receive Ministry of Health and Welfare export permits; 合一 product registration application accepted in Algeria; 藥祇 submits an IND application to the FDA; 生華科 research and development head resigns.
For organizations wishing to conduct training and renewal courses
Published ・ Source Japan | 厚生労働省
厚生労働省 has opened applications for the Reiwa 8 fiscal year under the career consultant registration system, released a video explaining the application guidelines, and will hold an online information session on Oct. 21.
Facts
Original令和８年度
Application period: Reiwa 8, Nov. 1 to Nov. 30
Application period: Reiwa 8, June 1 to June 30
[527KB]
[555KB]
Video (approximately 45 minutes)
Date and time: Wednesday, Oct. 21, Reiwa 8, 13:30–14:00
Official information from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare on career consultant examination eligibility, subjects, administering organizations (特定非営利活動法人キャリアコンサルティング協議会 and 特定非営利活動法人日本キャリア開発協会), exam schedules for Reiwa 8 and 9, fees, exemptions, and registration procedures.
Facts
3 or more years of experience
Approximately no more than 6 people
Written exam: 8,900 yen
Practical exam: 29,900 yen
Registration fee: 8,000 yen
Registration license tax: 9,000 yen
Reissuance or correction of registration certificate: 2,000 yen
The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare opened applications for “Hataraku Yell 2027” on Oct. 1, Reiwa 8. The program certifies and honors companies and other organizations actively working to enhance and make effective use of employee benefits.
Facts
Original2020年から毎年１回
1 organization with the most outstanding initiatives
Regarding 厚生労働大臣 awards for individuals who have contributed to nutrition-related work in Reiwa 8
Published ・ Source Japan | 厚生労働省
厚生労働省 announced that it has selected 65 individuals and 17 facilities to receive 厚生労働大臣 awards for contributions to nutrition-related work in Reiwa 8, with an awards ceremony to be held at 都市センターホテル on Oct. 8.
Notice on projects to honor the war dead (scheduled for October, Reiwa 8)
Published ・ Source Japan | 厚生労働省
厚生労働省 announced details of projects to honor the war dead—including the collection of remains and memorial visits—to be carried out in October, Reiwa 8, in eastern New Guinea, the Palau Islands, the Marshall Islands, India and the Republic of Kiribati.
The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare announced that it will hold the 1st meeting of the Pharmaceutical Affairs and Food Sanitation Council’s Subcommittee on Chemical Safety Measures and Study Group on Safety Measures for Household Products online on Oct. 8, Reiwa 8. Topics include a scheme for selecting substances for review and the actual effects of household products on health.
Results of the 5th General Meeting of the Japan Conference for the Implementation of the 2030 Biodiversity Framework (J-GBF)
Published ・ Source Japan | 環境省
The 5th General Meeting of the Japan Conference for the Implementation of the 2030 Biodiversity Framework (J-GBF) was held on Sept. 14, Reiwa 8, with Environment Minister Ishihara and Chair Tsutsui in attendance. Discussions focused on achieving nature positivity, and progress reports included the certification of 610 sites as sites in harmony with nature.
Establishing the “日本GHGセンター” to consolidate information and knowledge on greenhouse gases — Strengthening coordination and cooperation among relevant organizations to help accelerate climate action and achieve decarbonization at an early stage
Call for public comments on a draft ministerial ordinance to partially amend the Enforcement Regulations of the Act on the Protection of the Environment in Antarctica
Published ・ Source Japan | 環境省
The Ministry of the Environment will hold a public comment period from Oct. 1 through 30, Reiwa 8, on a draft partial amendment to the Enforcement Regulations of the Act on the Protection of the Environment in Antarctica, to address decisions adopted at the 48th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting.
Joint marine sampling and other activities with the 国際原子力機関（IAEA） for offshore monitoring related to ALPS treated water
Published ・ Source Japan | 環境省
To improve the transparency and reliability of offshore monitoring of ALPS treated water, 環境省 will conduct joint marine sampling with IAEA experts and analytical institutions from China, South Korea and Switzerland.
Regarding the 29th meeting of the Crested Ibis Reintroduction Review Committee
Published ・ Source Japan | 環境省
On October 14, Reiwa 8, 環境省 will hold the 29th meeting of the Crested Ibis Reintroduction Review Committee at Izumo City Hall. Topics will include breeding results and the status of releases in Sado, Noto and Izumo, with experts and others in attendance.
Regarding the publication of the “Basel III Monitoring Report” by the バーゼル銀行監督委員会
Published ・ Source Japan | 日本銀行
On September 23, 2026, the バーゼル銀行監督委員会 published the “Basel III Monitoring Report.” 日本銀行 notes that it includes data analysis results based on figures as of the end of December 2025 (or, for Japan, the end of September of the same year).
Schedule for the implementation of funds-supplying operations to support climate change measures
Published ・ Source Japan | 日本銀行
日本銀行 announced the schedule for funds-supplying operations to support climate change measures. The offer date is January 29, 2027, the start date is February 1, 2027, and the end date is February 1, 2028, with the reference date set at the end of September 2026.
Financial measures for those affected by disasters caused by Typhoon No. 25 in Reiwa 8 (Kanagawa Prefecture)
Published ・ Source Japan | 日本銀行
For people affected in Kanagawa Prefecture by Typhoon No. 25 in Reiwa 8, the Kanto Local Finance Bureau of the Ministry of Finance and 日本銀行横浜支店 requested that financial institutions and others take financial measures, including greater flexibility in lending and simpler procedures.
Factors Affecting Changes in Current Account Balances at the Bank of Japan and Financial Markets Operations (September results)
Published ・ Source Japan | 日本銀行
On October 1, 2026, 日本銀行 announced the September 2026 results for factors affecting changes in current account balances and financial markets operations. Reserve balances declined from the previous month-end, and the report shows the operating status of climate response operations and the Loan Support Program, among others.
Passenger cars (BMW X2 xDrive20i and 20 other models) - Repair
Published ・ Source Japan | 消費者庁
Repairs will be carried out on BMW passenger cars, including the BMW X2 xDrive20i and 20 other models, due to a head unit defect. The response will begin on October 1, 2026.
Refunds and recalls of プラス “Tomato,” sold at よってって有田店, will begin on September 18, 2026, after levels of the pesticides acephate and methamidophos exceeding the applicable limits were detected.
2026 Taiwan Science Education Around-the-Island Train Sets Off, Joining Hands with Government, Industry, Academia and Research to Open the Door to Science for Students
5 men arrested near RAF Fairford in Britain; misleading AI-enhanced images circulate on social media
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 台灣事實查核中心
British police arrested 5 men on August 27 on suspicion of preparing to attack RAF Fairford. An arrest image circulating online was found by OpenAI SynthID to contain an AI-generated watermark, confirming that it was an AI-altered image rather than an original photo taken by a member of the public. Police have so far disclosed only that the suspects are British nationals, and have not released personal details, religious beliefs or motives.
Facts
Report No.: 4339
British police arrested 5 men on August 27 on suspicion of preparing to attack RAF Fairford air base.
All are British nationals in their 20s from London.
BBC senior fact-checking reporter Shayan Sardarizadeh posted a warning on LinkedIn on September 28.
Beware of scams offering “free bubble tea vouchers and coupons”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 台灣事實查核中心
The fact-checking center said messages circulating on social media offering “free bubble tea vouchers and coupons” are a scam. Adding a LINE customer service account and providing a verification code can lead to account theft. LINE urged users to look for the official shield icon and never share verification codes.
“Flu shot in one arm, updated COVID shot in the other: Protect your lungs and heart”—publicly funded flu and COVID vaccines roll out simultaneously on October 1
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 衛福部疾病管制署
The CDC held a press conference on October 1, 2026, announcing the simultaneous rollout of publicly funded flu and COVID vaccines for 115. This year, purchases of publicly funded flu vaccines topped 7 million doses for the first time, while 2.4 million COVID vaccine doses were procured, including Moderna and Novavax vaccines. Vaccination will open in 2 stages, prioritizing older adults, young children and high-risk groups. The public was urged to receive both vaccines for dual protection.
Facts
A total of 7,050,150 publicly funded flu vaccine doses procured
Establishment of the “Japan GHG Center” to consolidate information and knowledge on greenhouse gases ～Strengthening coordination and cooperation among relevant organizations to accelerate climate action and contribute to achieving decarbonization at an early stage～
Published ・ Source Japan | 宇宙航空研究開発機構
Six institutions—the National Institute for Environmental Studies, the University of Tokyo, Hiroshima University, the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, 気象庁気象研究所 and JAXA—will collaborate to establish the “Japan GHG Center” to consolidate and disseminate greenhouse gas (GHG) information.