U.S. midterm election countdown: Republicans face dim prospects as Democrats poised to retake House majority
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
With the U.S. midterm elections approaching, President Trump traveled to Ohio to campaign for Republican candidates, acknowledging that their support falls 44% when he is not on the ballot. National polls show Democrats leading Republicans by 8 percentage points. Trump’s approval rating at one point hit a record low of 32%, with high prices and the Iran war, now in its 7th month, weighing heavily. Analysts say Democrats need to gain just 3 seats in the House and 4 in the Senate to turn the tide. Races are tight in traditional red states including Texas, Alaska, Ohio and Iowa, and Democrats are expected to win 225 House seats, surpassing the 218-seat threshold for a majority.
Facts
When I’m not running, their support drops by 44%.
Democratic candidates lead by 8 percentage points in support.
Trump’s approval rating at one point hit a record low of 32%.
Democrats need only gain 3 seats in the House.
They need to gain 4 seats in the Senate.
The war has been going on for 7 months.
Democrats are expected to win 225 seats in the House.
That is above the 218-seat threshold for a majority.
Munich Oktoberfest draws a record 7.4 million visitors, with 6.7 million liters consumed over 16 days
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Munich Oktoberfest set a record this year with 7.4 million visits, 900,000 more than last year’s 6.5 million. About 6.7 million 1-liter mugs of beer were sold over 16 days, up 2.7% from last year, while sales of nonalcoholic drinks also rose 10%. Weekday attendance increased by about 25%. The festival ended on Oct. 4, and the next edition will open on Sept. 18, 2027.
Facts
The 7.4 million visits set a new record.
Last year (2025), there were 6.5 million visits.
This year (2026), there were 900,000 more visits.
Weekday attendance consequently rose by about 25%.
Sanae Takaichi says China is an important neighbor, hopes for stable ties in policy speech
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi delivered a policy speech, describing China as an “important neighbor” and expressing hope for comprehensive progress in mutually beneficial relations, a move seen as a response signaling a thaw with China. She also stressed that Japan would firmly state its position on China’s military and coercive actions in the East China Sea, South China Sea and other issues.
More than 100 egg-bearing female crabs found on Penghu fishing boat; illegal catch could draw fine of up to NT$150,000
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
More than 100 egg-bearing female crabs were found aboard a fishing boat as it entered port in Penghu, after coast guard officers boarded the vessel. The catch is suspected of violating fishing restrictions on swimming crabs announced by 漁業署. The red starry swimming crab, commonly known as the three-spot crab, was the main species involved. The operator claimed the crabs were sorted near shore because of poor sea conditions. 漁業署 will investigate, and the maximum fine is NT$150,000.
Facts
Initial estimates put the number of egg-bearing female crabs aboard at more than 100.
The operator could face a fine of up to NT$150,000.
Carapace width under 9 centimeters.
Carapace width or length under 6 centimeters for swimming crabs and red frog crabs.
From early August through the end of each year, egg-bearing female crabs and crabs that have lost their abdominal flaps may not be caught.
A crab carrying eggs can produce thousands or tens of thousands of baby crabs.
Taipei faces worsening aging of residents and housing, driving demand for senior housing and medical care
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Taipei is facing the dual problem of an aging population and aging housing. People aged 65 and older make up 24.76% of the population, the highest share in Taiwan, while those aged 15 to 64 account for 63.56%, the lowest share nationwide. The average building age is also the highest among the six special municipalities, at 39.62 years. Scholars and real estate experts say the growing elderly population will drive demand for senior housing and medical care. But high housing prices are also pushing young and middle-aged residents to move to other counties and cities, including New Taipei and Taoyuan, and the aging of both residents and housing is expected to worsen.
Facts
About 1 in every 4 Taipei residents is aged 65 or older.
At 63.56%, Taipei has the lowest share of residents aged 15 to 64 in Taiwan.
At 24.76%, Taipei has the highest share of residents aged 65 or older in Taiwan.
Taipei has not only Taiwan’s highest share of elderly residents, but also the oldest housing, with an average building age of 39.62 years, the highest among the six special municipalities.
National Day events and concerts boost bookings, putting Taipei at the top nationwide over the Double Ten holiday
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Driven by National Day events, a BIGBANG concert and major performances over the National Day holiday, Taipei recorded an average hotel booking rate of nearly 80%, the highest nationwide. Lienchiang County followed at more than 76%, while Taitung ranked third at about 63.53%. 台北市觀傳局 said occupancy rates in Taipei were already holding above 70%, with multiple events further boosting demand for lodging. The 2026 National Day fireworks will be held at the mouth of the Beinan River in Taitung, marking the city’s return as host after 9 years. Taitung will also work with Thailand to launch charter flights directly to Chiang Mai before the end of the year, in a bid to attract international visitors.
Facts
Bookings for this weekend’s National Day holiday have already exceeded 90%.
Domestic travelers account for nearly 40% to 50%.
Over the 3-day National Day holiday, Taipei had the highest average booking rate, at nearly 80%.
Lienchiang County came next, also exceeding 76%.
Taitung ranked 3rd, with a booking rate of 63.53% so far.
Occupancy rates had already been holding above 70% recently.
This is Taitung’s first time hosting the event in 9 years.
The 2026 National Day fireworks will be set off on the evening of National Day at the mouth of the Beinan River in Taitung City.
Ranked only 116th out of 182 countries in the Corruption Perceptions Index.
In the Corruption Perceptions Index covering 182 countries
More than 60% of people said they had been explicitly or implicitly asked for bribes while applying for various documents.
As many as 89% of respondents believe government corruption has seriously affected business operations in Thailand and its image as a destination for international investment.
Thailand’s 2025 ranking in the Corruption Perceptions Index covering 182 countries
Bolsonaro leads Lula in first round of Brazil election, but neither wins a majority
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
The results of the first round of Brazil’s presidential election are in: former president’s son and incumbent senator Flávio Bolsonaro led incumbent President Lula, who is seeking reelection, with 47.03% of the vote to Lula’s 45.16%. Neither reached the 50% threshold, and they will face off again in a runoff on Oct. 25. 路透社 analysis notes that beyond the contest between right and left, the new president will also have to fill several key vacancies in central government institutions. 中央銀行 has 2 vacancies among its 8 directors; 最高法院 has 1 vacancy among its 11 justice seats; 證券交易委員會CVM has 1 vacant commissioner position; and 經濟防衛行政委員會 has 2 vacant commissioner positions, as well as a vacant chairmanship, potentially affecting reviews of corporate mergers and acquisitions.
Facts
Received 47.03% of the vote.
Trailed narrowly with 45.16%.
Original2人都沒有達到50%的門檻
They must face off again in a second-round vote on Oct. 25
Original制定金融政策的中央銀行，8名理事目前缺2人
The 11-seat Constitutional Court is still short 1 justice
證券交易委員會CVM has failed to fill the 1 vacancy among its 5 commissioners from 2024 to the present
Chinese-American woman accused of stalking Lai Ching-te's eldest son in US; Presidential Office calls it a textbook case of transnational repression
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Chinese-American woman Chang Wan-ying was suspected of surveilling Lai Ting-yu, the eldest son of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, on behalf of the Chinese government. She was arrested by the US FBI at Los Angeles International Airport while preparing to board a flight to China. Presidential Office spokesperson Kuo Ya-hui strongly condemned the act as a textbook case of transnational repression, stressing that the civilized world should not tolerate it and thanking the US for helping protect Taiwan's people. Scholars said such actions could become a routine way for the Chinese Communist Party to pressure Taiwan. Mainland Affairs Council figures show that the CCP's cross-border repression targeting Taiwan has affected at least 126 people in 140 instances. The council is revising the Anti-Infiltration Act to counter it.
Facts
Lai Ting-yu, who is in his 30s, is an engineer who earned a doctorate in the US and works for a multinational electronics company
Chang Wan-ying was in contact with at least 2 people suspected of being Chinese government officials
The number of people targeted by the Chinese Communist Party's cross-border repression against Taiwan worldwide has reached at least 126, in 140 instances
Daily rainfall in Spain reaches 250 millimeters amid heavy rain; officials call for cancellation of public events to avoid danger
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Days of heavy rain in Spain's Catalonia region brought up to 250 millimeters of rainfall in a single day in some areas, leaving 2 dead and 1 missing. Officials called for all public events to be canceled for safety. Many businesses and pharmacies were badly flooded, and submerged cars and damaged furniture remain to be cleared away. The status of insurance claims is unclear. Meanwhile, a storm hit Paraguay's capital, Asunción, on the 3rd, bringing violent winds, heavy rain and hailstones the size of tennis balls, damaging vehicles and causing power outages in some areas.
Facts
Some areas received 250 millimeters of rain in a single day
The heavy rain has caused 2 deaths
1 person missing
The water has reached 60 centimeters
On the 3rd, there were not only violent winds and heavy rain
First batch of F-16 fighter jets returns to Taiwan; Yu Da-lei urges US to speed up arms deliveries
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
The first batch of F-16V fighter jets has returned to Taiwan. Taiwan's representative to the US, Yu Da-lei, told foreign media he hopes Washington will speed up arms deliveries to Taiwan. US President Donald Trump has yet to approve a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan, and senators from both parties have jointly called for the sale to be carried out. Eight Chinese warships and 9 Chinese government vessels continue to harass Taiwan. With a Trump-Xi meeting set to take place at APEC and the G20, Yu Da-lei stressed that Taiwan's goal is not to become "the dish on the table." In addition, 台積電 is setting up a plant in Arizona, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has established a new representative office in Phoenix, which will be inaugurated on the 5th local time.
Facts
8 Chinese naval vessels
9 government vessels continue operating in waters around Taiwan
US President Donald Trump has yet to approve a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan
Our 14th representative office in the US
It will be able to serve about 30,000 Taiwanese expatriates in the area
Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine awarded; 3 US and German scientists recognized for pioneering optogenetics
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
The 2026 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was jointly awarded to 3 scholars from the United States and Germany—Karl Deisseroth, Peter Hegemann and Georg Nagel—in recognition of their pioneering contributions to optogenetics, a technology that uses light to precisely control nerve cells and has led to major breakthroughs in research on the brain, neural circuits and psychiatric disorders. This year marks the 125th anniversary of the Nobel Prizes, and the prize money has been raised to 12 million Swedish kronor.
Facts
2026 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine laureates
This year (2026) marks the 125th anniversary of the Nobel Prizes
The prize money has also risen from 11 million Swedish kronor
Finland plans Google data center; more than 300 hectares of forest cleared before environmental review
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Google plans to build a data center in Muhos in northern Finland, with an investment of 13 billion euros expected over the next 2 years. But more than 300 hectares of forest have already been cleared before construction, prompting the Finnish Association for Nature Conservation to accuse the company of failing to conduct an environmental impact assessment as required by law and to demand a halt to construction. Environmental groups say Finnish law requires an assessment in advance when forest clearing covers more than 200 hectares. Google responded that the logging complies with the Forest Act and that nature surveys have been conducted. Muhos residents hope the project will spur business, but are also concerned about pressure on energy supplies.
Facts
More than 300 hectares of forest cleared, an area equivalent to 420 soccer fields
An area equivalent to 420 soccer fields
Google plans to invest 13 billion euros in Finland over the next 2 years
An environmental impact assessment is required in advance when forest clearing exceeds 200 hectares and permanently changes the use of the land
Oil prices retreat; most European stocks close higher
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
International oil prices fell on market expectations of increased crude supply, and most major European stock markets closed higher on the 5th. The Paris market, however, closed lower under pressure from France's fiscal problems. London's FTSE 100 edged up 0.34% to close at 10497.94 points, Frankfurt's DAX rose 0.09% to 25254.21 points, while Paris's CAC 40 fell 0.80% to 7834.10 points.
U.S. borrowing costs at a 20-year high; 3 government measures to respond could stoke inflation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The U.S. government's borrowing costs have climbed to a 20-year high, with interest payments of about $1 trillion a year due on its more than $40 trillion debt. With the fiscal deficit still growing and interest rates remaining high, 3 possible responses range from the Treasury issuing more short-term debt, to a large-scale purchase of long-term bonds modeled on the 1961 Operation Twist, to directly setting a ceiling on long-term bond yields as was done during World War II. But the more aggressive the measures, the more likely they are to worsen inflation, making things even harder for bondholders.
Facts
The U.S. debt now exceeds $40 trillion
About $1 trillion in interest is due each year
Yields on long-term U.S. government bonds are now near a 20-year high
The U.S. government now has to spend $1 of every $5 in tax revenue on servicing its debt
Set a 2.5% ceiling on yields for long-term U.S. government bonds
Similar to the 1961 Operation Twist
Companies mentioned：聯邦準備理事會（聯準會／Fed）、美國財政部、阿波羅全球管理公司（Apollo Global Management）、凱投宏觀公司（Capital Economics）、路透社（Reuters）、中央社
The father of a Lin-surnamed candidate for local representative in the second electoral district of Ligang Township, Pingtung County, is suspected of vote buying at NT$1,000 per vote with the help of a campaign fixer surnamed Cai. The Pingtung District Prosecutors Office directed police and investigators to search and question 11 people, and seized NT$19,000 in illicit proceeds. Prosecutors said the father was strongly suspected of violating the Election and Recall Act by bribing voters and might collude with witnesses, and asked the court to detain him incommunicado. Cai was released on NT$30,000 bail.
Facts
1 vote, 1,000 yuan
11 voters and related witnesses were questioned
A total of 19,000 yuan in illicit proceeds returned by voters was seized
The man surnamed Tsai was released on 30,000 yuan bail
To report violations, call the hotline at 0800-024-099 and press 4
Markets eye yields and economic data; Nasdaq hits another intraday high
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Investors focused on U.S. Treasury yields and the latest economic data. The Nasdaq Composite hit another intraday record, rising more than 0.7% to 27399.81 points; the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell about 87 points, down nearly 0.2%, while the S&P 500 edged up about 0.4%.
Facts
The Nasdaq Composite rose more than 0.7%, reaching a high of 27,399.81 points and another record
The Nasdaq Composite rose more than 0.7%
The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 87 points, down nearly 0.2%
Statue of Slovak (斯洛伐克) explorer unveiled, marking ties dating back 250 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Slovak (斯洛伐克) explorer Maurice Benyovszky landed in Taiwan at Suao, Yilan, in 1771. To mark the 250th anniversary, Taiwan's representative to 斯洛伐克, Li Nanyang, was recently invited to attend the unveiling of a newly erected statue commemorating Benyovszky in 維爾博韋市（Vrbové）, where he exchanged views with the governor of 特納瓦省（Trnava） and the mayor of 維爾博韋市（Vrbové）, strengthening ties between Taiwan and 斯洛伐克.
Facts
250th anniversary of Benyovszky's landing in Taiwan
He landed in Taiwan at Suao, Yilan, in 1771
Benyovszky was born in 1741 in 維爾博韋市, now in 斯洛伐克
and stayed for more than ten days
A commemorative sculpture weighing 500 kilograms was specially presented to 宜蘭縣政府 (Yilan County Government)
宜蘭縣政府 (Yilan County Government) has repeatedly invited 斯洛伐克 folk dance troupes since 1999
Ferrari takes on F-35: Italian racing legend says he can't stop pushing limits
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Italian racing legend Fabio Barone will drive a Ferrari SF90 on the 11th in an unprecedented straight-line acceleration showdown against an F-35B stealth fighter at the Grottaglie Naval Air Station in southern Italy. The event will take place on a specially built, 35-meter-wide aluminum track, with a 500-meter short sprint and a 2.8-kilometer long-distance race, in a two-round competition. The event will also benefit young people with disabilities. Barone's team has cut the SF90's 0-100 km/h acceleration time from 2.8 seconds to 2.6 seconds. He has previously set 7 Guinness World Records.
Facts
He has now set 7 Guinness World Records
On a short deck measuring only about 205 meters
Set a high-speed record of 164 km/h
The first round is a 500-meter sprint.
The second round is a 2.8-kilometer distance race.
On the same specially made 35-meter-wide aluminum track.
As both travel at speeds exceeding 300 kilometers per hour.
The entire team spends an average of 20 hours a day preparing for the race.
Cutting the time from the factory standard of 2.8 seconds to 2.6 seconds.
The mountain road stretches just 11 kilometers.
The elevation rises sharply from 200 meters to 1,300 meters.
The route includes 99 sharp turns.
Barone reached the summit in 10 minutes and 31 seconds, setting a Guinness World Record.
In 2016, Barone took on the challenge in a Ferrari.
A semi-trailer truck’s load of steel frames falls on the Tainan Xinshi section of National Highway 1; more than 30 vehicles collide with it and are damaged.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man surnamed Su was driving a commercial semi-trailer truck on the northbound lanes of National Highway 1 at kilometer 316.3 in Xinshi District, Tainan, tonight when steel-frame materials fell from the truck onto the inner, middle and outer lanes. About 30 cars collided with the debris and were damaged. Fortunately, no one was injured. The scene was cleared at 9:40 p.m., and police will handle the case in accordance with the law.
Facts
The northbound lanes of National Highway 1 at kilometer 316.3 in Xinshi District, Tainan.
About 30 cars collided with the debris and were damaged.
Liyutan Reservoir (discharge into Jingshan Creek): free overflow (Miaoli County, Taichung City)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
Liyutan Reservoir began uncontrolled overflow into the Jing Shan River at 23:18:40 on Oct. 5, 2026. The affected areas include Sanyi Township in Miaoli County and Waipu, Dajia, Houli and Daan districts in Taichung City. The Water Resources Agency issued a notice urging residents along the river to stay alert and away from the riverbed. The alert is expected to be lifted at 2:19 on Oct. 6.
Strong wind advisory for land areas (yellow alert) (Pingtung County, Miaoli County, Taoyuan City, Keelung City, Lienchiang County, Yunlin County, New Taipei City, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, Chiayi County, Changhua County, Taichung City, Taitung County, Tainan City, Penghu County)
Huoshan Reservoir (discharge to Beigang River): Free Overflow (Yunlin County, Chiayi County)
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 國家災害防救科技中心
Hushan Reservoir will undergo uncontrolled overflow from 21:18 on Oct. 5, 2026, until 0:19 on Oct. 6, releasing water into the Beigang River. The affected areas include Gukeng Township, Huwei Township, Shuishang Township, Douliu City, Citong Township, Tuku Township, Dounan Township, Beigang Township, Yuanchang Township, Kouhu Township and Dapi Township in Yunlin County, as well as Xingang Township, Xikou Township, Liujiao Township and Dongshi Township in Chiayi County. The Water Resources Agency urges residents along the river to stay alert and away from the riverbed.
Zhang Linghe and Tian Xuwei’s The Glory Loses Out! Top 10 Chinese Dramas Featuring the Strongest Power Couples: The Winner’s Perfect Match Is Addictive, and Their Teamwork Is Thrilling
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article compiles a ranking of the 10 most talked-about power couples in recent Chinese dramas. The winner is The Glory, followed by Pursuit of Jade. The ranking considers character portrayals, discussion on Weibo and audience reviews.
Facts
Original陸劇「雙強CP」TOP10冠軍是盧昱曉、侯明昊主演的《入青雲》。
In Pursuit of Jade, Tian Xuwei plays Fan Changyu and Zhang Linghe plays Xie Zheng, placing the drama at No. 2.
In The Double, Song Zuer plays Xiao Qiao and Liu Yuning plays Wei Shao, placing the drama at No. 3.
In Moonlight Mystique, Bai Lu plays Bai Shuo and Ao Ruipeng plays Fan Yue, placing the drama at No. 10.
The hallmark of a “power couple” is that both the male and female leads have their own fighting skills, intelligence and character development, progressing from testing each other to fighting side by side.
In The Glory, Ming Xian won the Qingyun Tournament championship 7 consecutive times before being defeated by Ji Bozai at the 8th tournament.
In A Smile Amidst the Flames, Fu Yixiao is a female archer from the Kingdom of Jinxiu who hits the enemy kingdom’s prince, Feng Suige, with an arrow at the start.
This report ranks the top 10 Korean dramas that premiered from 2024 to 2026 according to Douban ratings. It has revealed the titles and lead actors for entries from No. 3 to No. 10, while the top-ranked drama scored an impressive 9.4.
Facts
The ranking of the best Korean dramas of the past 3 years is based on Douban ratings, with the title having more ratings ranked higher in the event of a tie.
No. 10 among the best Korean dramas of the past 3 years is LTNS, starring Lee Som and Ahn Jae-hong, which premiered in 2024 and has a Douban rating of 8.4.
In Lovely Runner, Kim Hye-yoon plays Im Sol and Byeon Woo-seok plays popular idol Ryu Sun-jae. The drama has a Douban rating of 8.5.
In Yumi’s Cells 3, Kim Go-eun plays Kim Yumi and Kim Jae-won plays Shin Soon-rok. The drama has a Douban rating of 8.6.
In We Are All Trying Here, Koo Kyo-hwan plays Hwang Dong-man and Go Youn-jung plays Byeon Eun-a. The series aired in 2026 and has a Douban rating of 8.6.
In Our Unwritten Seoul, Park Bo-young plays twin sisters Yoo Mi-ji and Yoo Mi-rae, while Park Jin-young plays lawyer Lee Ho-su. The drama has a Douban rating of 8.6.
In Taxi Driver 3, Lee Je-hoon plays Kim Do-gi, Rainbow Transport’s ace driver, and Pyo Ye-jin plays hacker Ahn Go-eun. The drama has a Douban rating of 8.6.
Based on Park Sang-young’s novel of the same name, The Great City stars Nam Yoon-su as gay writer Go Young and Lee Soo-kyung as Choi Mi-ae. The drama has a Douban rating of 8.7.
Tan Songyun and Liu Xueyi’s The Orchid Returns Loses Out! The Best 10 Chinese Historical Dramas About Household Rivalries: The Winner Tops Love Behind the Back, and Remains Hard to Surpass Years After Its Release
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Based on Douban ratings as of Oct. 5, 2026, this article compiles a ranking of the top 10 Chinese historical dramas about household rivalries, introducing the plots, casts and audience reviews of entries from No. 10 to No. 4.
Facts
The top 10 are ranked by Douban ratings as of October 5, 2026
Golden Horse glitz gets a taste of the land! 玉美嚴選 brings Taiwanese produce to filmmakers’ tables; co-branded farm produce boxes become cat houses, while adorable Mochi steals the show
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 63rd Golden Horse Awards is partnering with the Agriculture and Food Agency and 玉美生技 to include fresh Taiwanese produce in its gift boxes for the first time. It has launched a “Golden Horse co-branded farm produce box,” with its official cat, Mochi, showing off eco-friendly packaging that can be repurposed as a cat house.
Facts
The 63rd Golden Horse Awards is partnering with the Agriculture and Food Agency and 玉美生技 to include fresh Taiwanese produce in its gift boxes for the first time
The co-branded farm produce box brings together a selection of organic and traceable fresh vegetables chosen by the 玉美嚴選 brand
玉美生技’s supply chain covers cultivation, harvesting, produce processing, and cold-chain delivery
After the farm produce box has been used to transport vegetables and fruit, it can be converted into a cat house or a carry case
The Golden Horse Film Festival’s official account shared photos on Threads of its cat, named Mochi, settling into a cat house converted from a farm produce box
玉美 has launched the “玉美 Golden Horse co-branded vegetable box,” sold with 4 set products paired with 6 items of the customer’s choice
Foreign investors pour money into active ETFs! Nearly NT$71.9 billion flows in, with heavy buying; one fund is snapped up in 150,000 lots, hitting a record high
Arab Light crude sold to Asia in November will be priced at a discount of $5 per barrel to the Dubai and Oman benchmarks
November’s Asian price was cut by a further $3 per barrel after being discounted by $2 in October, putting it at its lowest relative price since June 2020
Aramco raised prices for all grades of crude sold to Europe by $3 per barrel, while leaving prices for the U.S. unchanged
Daily rates for very large crude carriers have surged to a record $1.3 million, about 43 times the $30,000 rate in January this year
Freight costs for Persian Gulf crude have risen from $1.73 per barrel in January to about $33, lifting their share of delivered costs from 3% to 27%
Original全球石油庫存已從約100億桶降至不到60億桶，實際可動用比例僅約一成
Brent crude has continued to trade near $100 per barrel over the past month
Oil prices and tariffs squeeze businesses! U.S. services cost pressures hit a more-than-4-year high in September, leaving the Fed little room to breathe
The prices paid index rose to 74 from 72.6, its highest since July 2022
標普全球’s services PMI rose to 58.8 in September from 56.5, its strongest in 5 years
The services employment index rose to 50.1 from 47.8, returning to expansion for the first time since June
The supplier deliveries index rose to 53.2 from 51.3, its highest since June
The Federal Reserve raised rates by 1 quarter-point last month, bringing them to 3.75% to 4%
Combined manufacturing and services surveys indicate that the economy grew at an annual rate of about 4% in the third quarter, with growth accelerating to 5% in September alone
The index of unfilled orders rose to its highest level since July 2022
U.S. Treasury interest costs burn through $1 trillion a year; lower rates could mean more pain for bondholders
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
U.S. government debt has topped $40 trillion, with annual interest payments of about $1 trillion, while long-term Treasury yields are nearing a 20-year high. Washington could consider Operation Twist or yield curve control, but the risks point to higher inflation and greater pain for bondholders.
Facts
The United States carries more than $40 trillion in debt and pays about $1 trillion in interest each year
Yields on long-term U.S. Treasuries are near their highest level in 20 years
For every $5 in tax revenue the government receives, $1 goes toward servicing the national debt
In an interview with Time magazine on September 28, U.S. President Trump said debt could be paid off through economic growth or inflation
Starting in 1942, the Federal Reserve capped long-term U.S. Treasury yields at 2.5% until 1951
After the war, U.S. debt as a share of GDP fell from about 106% in 1946 to 23% in 1974
In the 1990s, U.S. debt as a share of GDP fell from 48% to 32%
Higgins, chief economic adviser at Capital Economics, believes the current risks favor an inflationary path that would hurt bondholders
AI has chips but no power! 輝達 and 博通 are better positioned to withstand pressure, while memory and other component suppliers could face order cuts
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
摩根士丹利 warned that U.S. data-center power shortages could slow AI deployment, estimating a net power shortfall of 34% (32GW) in 2028. 輝達 and 博通 are better positioned to withstand the pressure, but memory, optical, and other component suppliers could face order cuts.
Facts
Original摩根士丹利於週一(5日)表示，美國資料中心電力短缺日益嚴重，可能拖慢AI部署。
Through 2028, U.S. data center developers will still face a 34% net power shortfall, equivalent to 32 gigawatts (GW).
輝達 and 博通 are relatively better positioned to withstand the impact of power shortages, with their 2027 forecasts not yet threatened by bottlenecks.
Memory, optics, power management and analog components are most vulnerable to inventory imbalances.
If chips cannot be put to use because deployment is blocked, customers may delay deliveries or even cancel orders.
高盛 believes political opposition will have limited short-term impact on data center expansion.
EU accuses Russia of hybrid attacks threatening all of Europe
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas accused Russia on the 5th of endangering the lives of people across Europe through hybrid attacks, specifically citing Russian missiles and drones violating Moldova’s airspace last weekend and stressing that this was completely unacceptable.
Facts
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas accused Russia on the 5th of endangering the lives of people across Europe through hybrid attacks.
Russian missiles and drones again violated Moldova’s airspace last weekend.
Russia launched an airstrike on Ukraine’s power grid on Sept. 30, attacking power facilities and infrastructure around Kyiv and in other areas in the largest combined assault in months.
Moldova’s Defense Ministry said 三 drones entered Moldovan airspace on Sept. 30.
German Chancellor Merz said Germany faces more Russian hybrid attacks and pledged continued support for Ukraine.
German authorities accused Moscow of being behind an attempted drone attack at Leipzig Airport in August.
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov said on Sept. 29 that European countries lacked the sincerity to improve relations with Russia.
Musk’s chip plan turns to 台積電! 英特爾 shares under pressure
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Musk revealed that he is discussing 台積電’s participation in the large-scale Terafab chip manufacturing project in Texas, stoking market concerns about competition facing 英特爾. 英特爾 shares fell more than 4% in premarket trading on Monday and continued to drop more than 2% during the session; 台積電 shares in Taiwan rose about 3%, while its ADR gained about 1%. 台積電 is evaluating ways to help operate Terafab’s wafer fabs. One option would have 台積電 own and operate fabs exclusively for 特斯拉, SpaceX and xAI, potentially replacing 英特爾’s previously assigned role in the 14A process.
Facts
英特爾 fell more than 4% in premarket trading on Monday (the 5th).
台積電 shares in Taiwan rose about 3%.
The ADR rose about 1% in premarket trading.
英特爾 (INTC-US) shares continued to fall more than 2% during Monday’s session.
Shares were last quoted at $116.66.
台積電’s ADR rose more than 1%, last quoted at $477.86.
Original目標每年生產可支撐1兆瓦運算容量的晶片
The 兩 companies said the scale is 兩 times U.S. demand.
特斯拉 and SpaceX may need up to 2,000億 AI chips per year.
Speaking English can support Myanmar. Applications open for the 11th online “Myanmar English Salon”; free trial starts October 10
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The NPO media outlet “ganas,” operated by 特定非営利活動法人開発メディア, opened applications on October 2, 2026, for the 11th session of its online English conversation program, “Myanmar English Salon.” The program runs for 6 months, from October 28, 2026, to April 10, 2027. A free trial will be held from October 10 to 23. In the 10th session, 953,000 yen in proceeds was sent to Myanmar, and 26 tarpaulins for repairing shelters for displaced people were delivered.
Facts
In the 10th session, 953,000 yen in proceeds was sent to Myanmar
A total of 26 were delivered through local NGOs
The program runs for 6 months, from October 28 to April 10, 2027
Free trial: October 10 (Sat.)–23 (Fri.), 2026
Main course: October 28 (Wed.), 2026–April 10 (Sat.), 2027
Misato Ugaki makes real estate investment more accessible! Propally releases new web commercial, “Does Real Estate Investment Seem Complicated?”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Propally株式会社 announced that it will release a new web commercial, “Does Real Estate Investment Seem Complicated?,” featuring Misato Ugaki on October 6, 2026. The app is a service that lets users gather information, explore real estate investment, and consult with professionals on a smartphone, with the aim of dispelling the perception that it “seems complicated.” As background to the campaign, the company cited a survey of 1,923 people nationwide aged 20–50: only 4.4% had actually invested, while around 24% were potential investors. The difficulty of choosing a firm and uncertainty about what to learn were cited as barriers.
Facts
Just 4.4% of people actually invest in real estate
The survey found that around 24% are potential investors who “are interested but have not invested.”
Screening survey of 1,923 people nationwide
Survey on barriers among 430 people interested in real estate investment
“It is difficult to identify a trustworthy firm” (32.1%)
“I don’t know what I should learn first” (31.2%)
Only 7.8% said they had consulted a real estate company
The most common reason for holding back was “I’m worried they’ll pester me with sales calls” (31.7%).
Follow-up survey (April 2026, n=180)
“Does Real Estate Investment Seem Complicated?” teaser, 15 seconds
“Does Real Estate Investment Seem Complicated?” 30 seconds
ORICO announces an M.2 SSD external enclosure compatible with Intel Thunderbolt 5, offering speeds of up to 80Gbps. Read speeds of 6000MB/s, JHL9480 chip, quiet cooling, and TB5/4/3 and USB4 compatibility.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ORICO announced an M.2 SSD external enclosure equipped with an Intel Thunderbolt 5 controller, offering bandwidth of up to 80Gbps and read speeds of up to 6000MB/s. It uses the Intel JHL9480 chip and an aluminum alloy enclosure for quiet cooling (below 45°C), and supports TB5/4/3 and USB4. A campaign offering 35% off (¥34,999→¥22,749) with code “1ORICOX50” runs from October 6 to October 12.
Facts
Supports read speeds of up to 6000MB/s and bandwidth of 80Gbps
Regular price: ¥34,999
A special campaign offering an effective 35% discount is underway
Final discounted price: ￥22,749
Code for 35% off: 1ORICOX50
Code valid from October 6 through October 12
Transfer a 6GB file in just 1 second
Effectively manages temperature even under heavy loads (below 45°C)
When using a Thunderbolt 3 port, speeds may be limited to a maximum of 10Gbps in USB mode.
Taiwanese vintage soul artist Yufu releases double-sided single “Side Effects May Include / Back In Your Eyes”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Taiwanese vintage soul artist Yufu（ユフ） will release the double-sided single “Side Effects May Include / Back In Your Eyes” on October 6, 2026, through Coral Soul Records. The release, the first in about 1 and a half years since the previous album 『Heal Me Good』, focuses on soul music from the late 1960s to the early 1970s and features 2 songs expressing a deep affection for the soul community. Yufu also announced a first solo concert, “Yufu ‘Heal Me Good’ Live!,” to be held on November 21, 2026, at BASEMENTBAR in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo.
Facts
About 1 and a half years since writing the songs for the debut album 『Heal Me Good』.
This time, the focus turns further back in time, to soul music from the late 1960s to the early 1970s.
The sound draws on crossover soul, Northern soul, Chicago soul, and Miami soul from around 1968–72
During production, more than 7 versions were tried
Information release date: October 6, 2026 (Tue.)
Saturday, Nov. 21, 2026
OPEN 19:00 / START 20:00
Companies mentioned：The Orchard Japan、Yufu、Coral Soul Records
Take a break beyond words. HOBiROA®’s little room now supports multiple languages
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
リクエスト株式会社 has added multilingual display options to the web page “Take a Break with HOBiROA,” where users can spend a moment with HOBiROA between work tasks. Users can choose from 5 languages: Japanese, English, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), and Korean. Use is free, and no membership registration or dedicated app is required. The page supports automatic display based on the browser’s preferred language as well as manual switching.
Facts
Built on data from 980 companies and 338,000 workers
Choose from 5 display languages: Japanese, English, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), and Korean.
Health Calendar | 80% of success is showing up (Woody Allen) - Heho健康
Published ・ Source Taiwan | Heho健康
Health Calendar cites Woody Allen’s saying, “80% of success is showing up,” explaining that psychological “friction” can get in the way of taking action. It urges people to let go of perfectionism and take the first step boldly to beat 80% of their anxiety.