Farmers’ association snacks are going viral on Threads! The top 10 popular treats revealed, with the No. 1 pick prompting a kindergarten teacher to order 2 big boxes
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
《網路溫度計DailyView》 used big data analysis to compile the TOP 10 viral farmers’ association treats, including Fuxing rice crackers and milkfish crisps, reflecting the popularity of locally produced agricultural snacks.
Facts
《網路溫度計DailyView》 used the KEYPO big-data analytics engine to compile the TOP 10 viral farmers’ association treats.
Can the Senior Citizens Card be used for convenience store purchases, and do unused points roll over? Online rumor says “a second-generation card will be issued next year”; Social Affairs Bureau clarifies where it can actually be used
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Nantou County Government’s Social Affairs and Labor Bureau debunked online rumors about a second-generation Senior Citizens Card and expanded functions, confirming that the current system remains unchanged.
Facts
The Nantou County Government’s Social Affairs and Labor Bureau issued a clarification, saying claims that a second-generation Senior Citizens Card will be issued next year and that the card can be used for convenience store purchases are false.
Nantou County’s Senior Citizens and Disability Card continues to provide 1,000 social welfare points per month. Any points left unused at the end of the month automatically expire under the law and cannot be accumulated.
The Senior Citizens Card can be used on intercity buses, highway buses, Happiness Buses, participating taxis and Taiwan Railways.
The maximum subsidy for each Taiwan Railways trip is 150 points, and cardholders must enter and exit through the dedicated Senior Citizens and Disability Card gates.
Those eligible for the Senior Citizens Card are Nantou County residents aged 65 or older, or Indigenous residents aged 55 or older.
Has the yen exchange rate broken through 0.2 and collapsed? A seasoned traveler says, “I once bought at 0.4”: it’s still a sweet deal now
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Travel expert 林氏璧, who frequently visits Japan, said the yen’s recent recovery to 0.2 remains a low, “super-sweet” rate compared with its past peak of 0.4, and advised ordinary travelers not to worry excessively.
Facts
The yen-to-New Taiwan dollar exchange rate recently climbed back above the 0.2 mark.
Travel expert 林氏璧 has previously exchanged yen at a rate of 0.39.
After the 2008 Lehman Brothers financial crisis, the yen exchange rate briefly reached around 0.36.
The yen exchange rate rose to between 0.39 and 0.40 in 2011.
The exchange rate rose from 0.1980 to 0.203, a difference of only about NT$500 when spending 100,000 yen.
One traveler recalled exchanging yen at a rate of 0.40369.
Viewed over the long-term historical range, the yen remains relatively low.
A must-read for independent travelers in Korea! One “move” when eating at street stalls could mean swallowing someone else’s saliva. A seasoned diner shares a way to protect yourself.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A Taiwanese traveler in Korea saw a street vendor reuse bamboo skewers that had been used by customers to re-skewer fish cakes and heat them, prompting hygiene concerns and heated online discussion.
Facts
While dining at a street stall in Korea, a Taiwanese traveler saw the vendor collect bamboo skewers used by customers, put new fish cakes on them and heat them in the same pot of soup.
The Taiwanese traveler later revealed that they drank 5 cups of fish cake soup over the course of that day.
The post attracted hundreds of thousands of views on Threads and received likes from thousands of users.
Some users familiar with travel in Korea advised tourists to snap the bamboo skewers in half after eating the fish cakes and put them in the trash bin beside the stall.
The article noted that a single incident should not be taken as proof that all Korean street stalls do the same thing, as practices may vary from one vendor to another.
Three Major Institutional Investors: Net selling of NT$14.8 billion! Why did funds snap up nearly 48,000 lots of 台塑 ahead of its earnings report? This stock was hit hardest, with 80,000 lots sold.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
On Oct. 7, 2026, the three major institutional investors recorded combined net sales of NT$14.826 billion. Foreign investors and investment trusts continued selling, while dealers shifted to trimming their holdings. 台塑 topped the net-buy list with 47,903 lots, while 友達 was hit hardest with net sales of 80,107 lots, reflecting portfolio adjustments ahead of earnings reports.
Facts
On Oct. 7, 2026, the three major institutional investors recorded combined net sales of NT$14.826 billion.
台塑 recorded net buying of 47,903 lots by the three major institutional investors, the highest among individual stocks.
友達 recorded net sales of 80,107 lots by the three major institutional investors, the largest net sale among individual stocks.
Foreign investors trimmed NT$13.043 billion that day, marking their 2nd consecutive day of net selling.
Investment trusts recorded net sales of NT$416 million that day, marking their 3rd consecutive day of net selling.
Dealers ended a 5-day buying streak and shifted to trimming holdings by NT$1.367 billion today.
聯電 recorded net sales of 33,339 lots by the three major institutional investors, the largest net sale among large-cap stocks.
主動中信台灣收益 recorded net sales of 160,471 lots, the largest net sale among ETFs.
Working all 3 days of the National Day holiday doesn’t mean “double pay”! It’s actually legal. The Ministry of Labor explains the correct calculation: only this day qualifies for double pay.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Ministry of Labor issued a press release explaining how pay is calculated during the National Day holiday. It said National Day is a national holiday and, if it falls on a rest day, a substitute day off must be provided. Employers must pay double wages if employees agree to work on National Day; employees generally cannot be required to work overtime on a regular day off, and changing holiday dates requires each worker’s consent.
Facts
National Day (Oct. 10) is legally a national holiday, and employers must give workers the day off with pay. If an employer obtains a worker’s consent to work on National Day, wages must be paid at double the rate as required by law.
If National Day falls on a worker’s “rest day” or “regular day off,” the employer must provide 1 substitute day off on another workday. The substitute day is treated as a national holiday, and workers receive their regular pay while off. If they work on the substitute day, they must also be paid double wages.
Taking this year’s National Day, which falls on a Saturday, as an example, if the employer and workers have agreed that Monday through Friday are workdays, Saturday is a rest day and Sunday is a regular day off, then because National Day falls on a rest day, 1 substitute day off can be given on Oct. 9 (Friday), creating a 3-day holiday.
If employees are scheduled to work on Oct. 10 (which is treated as a rest day), they must be paid according to the Labor Standards Act’s rules on working overtime on a rest day: for the first 2 hours, an additional 1 1/3 times the regular hourly wage; for the next 6 hours, an additional 1 2/3 times the regular hourly wage.
Changing holiday dates requires each worker’s consent! Workers can call the 1955 hotline to report violations by employers.
Hualien boosts benefits for older residents! Double Ninth Festival gifts rise to 3,000 from age 65, increase to 50,000 for centenarians, and free shingles vaccine slots expand to 10,000 people.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Hualien County Government announced that it will raise benefits for older residents across the board starting in ROC year 116, doubling the Double Ninth Festival gift amounts at each age tier and providing up to NT$50,000 to centenarians. The senior citizen card will also include a new allowance for essential goods, while slots for free vaccinations and health examinations will expand to 10,000 people as part of a policy of care for all ages.
Facts
Starting in ROC year 116, the Hualien County Government will raise the Double Ninth Festival gift for residents aged 65 to 79 from NT$1,000 to NT$3,000.
Hualien County will increase the Double Ninth Festival gift for residents aged 100 and over from NT$10,000 per person to NT$50,000.
Starting in ROC year 116, Hualien County’s senior citizen card will include an additional 1,000 points per person per month for essential goods.
The number of older residents eligible for Hualien County’s flagship free health examination subsidy will rise from the current 8,400 to 10,000.
Hualien County provides older residents from low- and middle-income households with up to NT$55,000 per person every 5 years for dentures, while other older residents can receive up to NT$50,000.
On Feb. 12, 1912, the last emperor, Aisin-Gioro Puyi, issued an abdication edict, marking the fall of the Qing dynasty.
In the Manchu language, “Aisin” means “gold,” so the vast majority of direct descendants chose to adopt the surname “Jin.”
The 8 great surnames of the Qing dynasty symbolized aristocratic status. After the dynasty fell, they were fully sinicized; for example, the Gūwalgiya clan adopted the surnames “Guan” or “Guo.”
The renowned contemporary calligrapher and educator Qigong was a 9th-generation descendant of Emperor Yongzheng. He insisted on dropping the Aisin Gioro surname and used only “Qigong” as his name.
Original現代擁有愛新覺羅血統的人數估計已達30至40萬人。
Aixinjueluo Wei, who runs an eye clinic in Japan, is descended from the Shunzhi Emperor and still lives using the original surname.
A village in northeastern China is inhabited entirely by descendants of the Aisin Gioro clan. Residents preserve traditions such as wearing qipao and growing long queues.
Not just F-15E fighter jets lost! US military lost 81 aircraft in Iran war, with total costs reaching $43.6 billion.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A report by the 美國國會研究處 said the US military lost 81 aircraft during the Iran war, with losses totaling $3.3 billion and including various models such as the F-15E, F-35A and E-3. The 美軍中央司令部 estimates that the total cost of the war has risen to $43.6 billion, with weapons costs also climbing sharply.
Facts
Since the Iran war began, the United States has lost at least 81 military aircraft to damage or shootdowns, with total losses reaching $3.3 billion.
Why has there been no bird droppings on the Forbidden City’s roofs for 600 years? 4 secrets not mentioned in textbooks—even birds don’t dare go near.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Qi Ying, a lecturer at Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, explained the mystery of the Forbidden City’s bird-dropping-free roofs, saying it is not due to special bird-deterrent design but to factors such as systematic maintenance by the Imperial Household Department, rain washing the roofs and the height of the buildings.
Facts
More than 600 years after the Forbidden City in Beijing was built, there are almost no traces of bird droppings on its roofs.
Qi Ying, a lecturer in the Department of Historic Building Conservation at Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, believes the roofs stay clean mainly because of routine maintenance and natural conditions.
After the Renyin Palace Incident during the Jiajing reign of the Ming dynasty, rulers cleared trees from the palace grounds to prevent assassins from hiding there.
During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Imperial Household Department assigned staff to maintain the palaces. They set up temporary high platforms and used specialized tools to clean dirt from elevated areas.
Scholar Qi Ying said that attributing the lack of bird droppings on the roofs to special design is mostly a folk invention.
Greenery was originally planned for the Forbidden City when construction began, but it was removed over the course of history for feng shui considerations and security.
Modern management authorities maintain the roofs by promptly replacing damaged and old tiles through regular repair programs.
Changhua County deploys “drones” to help manage traffic during the National Day holiday.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
To handle traffic during the 115 National Day holiday, the Changhua County Police Department is using drones for coordinated aerial and ground traffic management. It has issued detailed detour plans to address the closure of the Puyan System Interchange on National Freeway 1 and congestion at the Changhua and Yuanlin interchanges, and recommends that the public use public transit or shared electric bikes to reach popular attractions.
Facts
The Changhua County Police Department used drones to help direct traffic during the 115年 National Day holiday.
The National Day holiday runs from Oct. 9 to Oct. 11, 115年.
Original台76線東西向快速道路埔鹽系統於10月9日、10日每日5時至12時封閉南下匝道。
A total of 88 additional trains will operate during the high-speed rail holiday period.
Taiwan Railways will add 110 train services during the holiday.
The Highway Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications is offering fares at 85% of the original price on 85 medium- and long-distance intercity bus routes.
Vehicle access to roads around Lukang Tianhou Temple will be restricted as needed depending on crowd levels.
Flu outbreak surges! Weekly total of “219 severe cases and 44 deaths” hits a 5-year high; flu season may not end until “this time” at the earliest
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Centers for Disease Control announced flu figures for Week 39: 219 new severe cases and 44 deaths in a single week, the highest in 5 years. H1N1 is dominant. More than 1 million vaccine doses have been administered, but immunity takes time to develop; the flu season is expected to end in November.
Facts
The country recorded 219 new cases of severe flu complications and 44 deaths last week, a record weekly high in nearly 5 years.
Of the new severe cases, 210 involved H1N1 infection, an exceptionally high proportion.
Flu-like illness outpatient and emergency visits reached 139,060 in Week 39.
The publicly funded flu vaccination campaign began on Oct. 1, with about 1.062 million doses administered as of Oct. 5.
It usually takes about 2 weeks after vaccination to build adequate protection.
Classical music comes to mountain towns as the NSO joins corporate partners to promote music education in remote areas
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
NSO Acting Concertmaster Teng Hao-tun led a team of young musicians on a visit to schools in remote areas of Taichung and Taoyuan in early October, performing classical music and meeting with students. With support from corporate partners including 建興儲存科技 and 日月光文教基金會, the program also held master classes and activities for older adults, promoting more balanced access to arts education.
Facts
NSO Acting Concertmaster Teng Hao-tun will lead 10 young musicians in a string chamber ensemble on a tour of remote areas.
On Oct. 6, the NSO will perform at Heping Junior High School and Baileng Elementary School in Heping District, Taichung.
On Oct. 7, the NSO will perform at the Luofu Rahaw Indigenous Experimental School and Leyaba Ling Elementary School in Fuxing District, Taoyuan.
The NSO is partnering for the first time with 建興儲存科技股份有限公司 on the “Young Musicians Growth Program.”
The NSO is partnering for the first time with 日月光文教基金會 to launch the “Little Music Seedlings Program.”
A violin master class will be held at Taichung Second Senior High School and Shuangshi Junior High School on Oct. 13.
Longstanding corporate partners include 財團法人中華開發文教基金會, 凱基銀行 and 凱基人壽.
Think about your children 10 years from now before buying a home! 登陽華境 focuses on the living radius of Beitun, with transit access and three-bedroom-only layouts designed for growing families
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
登陽華境 is located in Taichung’s Beitun High-Speed Rail Special District and offers three-bedroom-only homes ranging from 37 to 39 ping. With access to the metro, Taiwan Railways and national highways, and close to the Duntai commercial district and Costco, it is designed to meet families’ commuting and long-term housing needs.
Facts
登陽華境 is located in Taichung’s Beitun High-Speed Rail Special District, on Nanxing Road in Beitun.
登陽華境 is planned entirely as three-bedroom-only homes ranging from 37 to 39 ping.
Nearby transit options include the Taichung Metro Green Line and Taiwan Railways’ Toujiacuo Station.
Drivers can connect to Taiwan Route 74 and National Highways 1 and 4.
Nearby amenities include the Duntai commercial district, the Toujiacuo neighborhood and Costco.
Is “autumn appetite” more than a feeling? Shorter days may also play a role. A doctor shares 3 ways to keep your appetite in check
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Lee Tang-yueh, director of Taichung’s Churi Clinic, says a stronger appetite in autumn is linked to shorter daylight hours and changes in the body clock, not just psychological factors. Citing U.S. research and a hypothesis published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, he recommends managing appetite and weight with a high-protein breakfast, regular sleep and moderate exercise.
Facts
A U.S. follow-up study found that participants consumed an average of about 86 more calories per day in autumn than in spring.
An article published in Frontiers in Psychiatry in August 2026 proposed a hypothesis of seasonal metabolic oscillations.
An increase in fatty tissue is associated with low-grade chronic inflammation, which may affect the tryptophan-kynurenine metabolic pathway.
Dr. Lee Tang-yueh recommends getting protein at breakfast from foods such as eggs, unsweetened soy milk and tofu to stabilize blood sugar.
Adults are advised to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, along with strength training 2 times a week.
Stock up on water! 10 cities and counties face major water outages tomorrow, with “no water for cooking or bathing from morning to night.” Check your home’s outage area with one click
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
台灣自來水公司 announced water outages on Oct. 8 in parts of 10 cities and counties: Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Yilan, Nantou, Yunlin, Chiayi and Pingtung. The outages are due to pipeline replacement and sewer construction. Parts of Xigang in Tainan and Kouhu in Yunlin will be without water for as long as 10 hours. Residents are urged to store water in advance and turn off water pumps.
Facts
Water outages will affect some areas in 10 cities and counties on Oct. 8: Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Yilan, Nantou, Yunlin, Chiayi and Pingtung.
Original台南市西港區金砂里自7時至17時停水，總計停水10小時。
Original雲林縣口湖鄉和平路自8時至18時停水，總計停水10小時。
The outages are due to pipeline replacement and sewer construction.
台灣自來水公司 advises customers to prepare by storing water at least 6 hours before the outage.
Car breaks down and stops in a red-line zone: can opening the hood avoid a fine? Man still gets a NT$1,200 ticket; judge says he failed to take this step
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A man in Taipei whose car broke down and stopped in a red-line zone opened the hood and put out a warning sign. But because the sign was too close to the car and he did not call a tow truck to move it, the court upheld the NT$1,200 fine. The ruling emphasized that a broken-down vehicle must still be moved in accordance with the law; opening the hood is not grounds for avoiding a fine.
Facts
A man in Taipei received a NT$1,200 fine after his car’s brake line burst and he stopped in a red-line zone. He filed an administrative lawsuit, but the court ultimately ruled against him.
The court ruled that opening the hood is not a legally recognized condition for avoiding a fine and that a broken-down vehicle must still be moved.
On roads with a speed limit of 40 kilometers per hour or less, a breakdown warning sign must be placed 5 to 30 meters behind the vehicle.
The man in this case placed the warning triangle almost beside the rear tire, and the court found that he had failed to keep the required distance.
The incident happened late in the day. After confirming that the brakes had only one-tenth of their normal stopping power, the man waited until the next day because he could not obtain replacement parts, but he did not call a tow truck.
Zheng Chaofang calls on county residents to serve as campaign chair; residents demand release of Zhubei project spending and tree-transplant data
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Zheng Chaofang, a candidate for Hsinchu County commissioner, launched his campaign headquarters and faced questions from county resident Tsai Yi-lin over public works in Zhubei that allegedly overuse hard paving and damage green spaces. Tsai called for the release of project spending and tree-transplant data to assess environmental sustainability.
Facts
Democratic Progressive Party candidate for Hsinchu County commissioner Zheng Chaofang launched his campaign headquarters, declaring that “all Hsinchu County residents are the best campaign committee chair.”
Hsinchu County resident Tsai Yi-lin, who signed the letter as “chair of Zheng Chaofang’s campaign committee,” wrote to the media questioning renovations to parks, trails and parking lots in Zhubei that replaced natural surfaces with concrete and asphalt.
Citing the P9 parking lot on Shengli 2nd Road as an example, Tsai Yi-lin said the landscaping changed after renovations and large areas of the ground were covered with hard paving.
Tsai Yi-lin called on the Zhubei City Office to disclose project information, including renovation costs, the number of trees removed and transplanted, the area of hard paving added or removed, and environmental assessments.
Tsai Yi-lin stressed that trees are important natural infrastructure for cities, providing shade, lowering surface temperatures and mitigating the urban heat island effect.
Cold Dew arrives on Oct. 8! Health warning for “4 zodiac signs”; folk expert reveals 1 taboo to observe for half a month
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A folk expert says the Cold Dew solar term arrives on Oct. 8, warning that the health of four specific zodiac signs may be at risk and revealing a taboo to observe for half a month.
Facts
The article states that its discussion of folk beliefs does not necessarily reflect the position of the website that published it.
Nonprofit preschool at the High-Speed Rail Special District’s Wenxiao completed and opens; Chang Chia-chun says improved childcare and education services will ease the burden on families
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Chang Chia-chun, a candidate for Yunlin County commissioner, announced that the nonprofit preschool at the High-Speed Rail Special District’s Wenxiao opened today (7). The preschool has 228 places and cost more than NT$150 million, aiming to improve childcare and education services and ease the burden on families.
Facts
The nonprofit preschool at the High-Speed Rail Special District’s Wenxiao in Yunlin County was completed and opened today (7).
Wenxiao nonprofit preschool is planned to have 9 classes and accommodate 228 children.
Wenxiao nonprofit preschool is the 4th nonprofit preschool in Huwei Township and the 10th in Yunlin County.
Wenxiao nonprofit preschool has a total budget of about NT$158.98 million, including NT$82.02 million in subsidies from the Ministry of Education and NT$76.96 million in funding raised by the county government.
Original張嘉郡今年5月成功向教育部國教署爭取裝修及設備經費，中央補助約891萬8400元。
The Yunlin County Government will introduce childcare growth allowances for children aged 0 to 6, providing an additional NT$12,000 per child each year.
Government cash is up for grabs! Starting Oct. 8, eligible residents in 1 county or city can receive NT$1,000 in grocery vouchers. See how to qualify and claim them while supplies last.
Dongmen Temporary Market will open in grand style on October 9, with all 45 popular vendors from the original Dongmen Market now relocated there.
The basic grocery voucher package has a face value of NT$1,000 and a discounted price of NT$600; the advanced package has a face value of NT$2,000 and a discounted price of NT$1,200.
The first online presale opens at 10 a.m. on October 8, while in-person sales for the second batch begin at 10 a.m. on October 11.
Each grocery voucher is worth NT$100 and can be used at all stalls in Dongmen Temporary Market. Vouchers are valid through November 8, 115.
On the opening celebration day, October 11, people can receive a free NT$100 grocery voucher by presenting proof of a digital payment made that day and their ID card. Limited to 60 vouchers.
From a streetlight to a thinking city: How smart poles are reshaping urban governance and commercial opportunities—what comes next?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The “Smart Taichung: Poles Shaping the Future” forum was held on October 2, bringing together a French mayor and experts from Pegatron, Far EasTone and 華碩雲端 to discuss how smart poles can improve public services and governance through standardized integration and AI.
Facts
The French city of Chanteloup-en-Brie was among the earlier cities to adopt nighttime lighting shutdowns, balancing energy needs with ecology in its lighting policy.
Original和碩聯合科技在台北市政府東大門人行道進行5G智慧杆技術標準推動聯盟的概念驗證。
Original遠傳電信智慧路燈建置維運規模為全國33萬盞，連線妥善率為97.7%。
Smart facility applications at Songshan Cultural and Creative Park have recorded a cumulative 1.88 million uses.
A poll released by 國民黨新北市議會黨團 found that Lee Chuan leads Su Chiao-hui by 6.7 percentage points in overall support in the New Taipei mayoral race, with a 12.3-point lead among swing voters. Most supporters of the Taiwan People's Party back Lee.
Facts
Lee Chuan's overall support stands at 42.6%, compared with 35.9% for Su Chiao-hui, giving him a lead of 6.7 percentage points.
Among voters with no party affiliation, Lee Chuan has 33.9% support and Su Chiao-hui has 21.6%, a lead of 12.3 percentage points.
A total of 77.8% of Taiwan People's Party supporters back Lee Chuan.
In the Sanchong-Xinzhuang area, Lee Chuan leads Su Chiao-hui 45.4% to 34.6%, widening his advantage to 10.8 percentage points.
In Banqiao District, Lee Chuan has narrowed his deficit from 6.3 percentage points to 2.4 percentage points.
Lee Chuan is favored to win by 38.0% of respondents, compared with 27.5% for Su Chiao-hui, a gap of 10.5 percentage points.
The survey included a valid sample of 1,210 New Taipei residents aged 20 or older.
About 1 in every 9 older adults may develop macular degeneration. More than 530,000 seniors across Taiwan could be at risk, and even white-collar workers in their 40s are not spared. A sudden decline in vision can deal a double blow to daily life and family!
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
To mark World Sight Day, 3 medical associations held a news conference on October 7, revealing that the prevalence of macular degeneration among people aged 65 and older in Taiwan is 11.1%, putting more than 530,000 seniors at risk. Experts said innovative intraocular injections and self-screening can effectively control the condition and reduce the risk of blindness and the burden on families.
Facts
The prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) among people aged 65 and older in Taiwan is 11.1%.
An estimated 530,000 seniors across Taiwan may be at risk of macular degeneration.
Dry macular degeneration accounts for about 85% of cases, while wet macular degeneration accounts for about 15%.
The risk of major depression among macular degeneration patients rises by 40%.
After treatment became more widely available, the rate of severe vision deterioration fell from 41.4% to 19.6%.
中華民國愛盲協會 and other organizations held a news conference on October 7.
Innovative intraocular injection drugs are now covered by national health insurance.
Huge rewards to recruit brave seafarers! Captains on Hormuz Strait routes offered more than $100,000 a month, with daily freight rates topping $40 million.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The U.S.-Iran conflict has turned the Strait of Hormuz into a high-risk shipping route. To maintain crude oil exports, shipowners are offering monthly salaries of $100,000 and bonuses of $50,000 per voyage to recruit crew. Threats of attack and soaring insurance and fuel costs have pushed freight rates in the area to a record $1.3 million in a single day, while traffic has fallen by one-third from prewar levels.
Facts
Some shipping companies are recruiting captains with salaries of $100,000 a month, plus a $50,000 bonus for each completed round trip.
Freight rates for cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz have soared to a record $1.3 million in a single day.
Under normal conditions, ordinary sailors in the area earn a base salary of about $1,500 a month, while captains earn about $15,000 a month.
Shipowners must pay war-risk insurance premiums amounting to 6% to 10% of a vessel's value.
Since the war broke out on February 28, at least 93 vessels of various types have been attacked, leaving 24 crew members dead.
The price of marine fuel oil in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, has soared to $686 per metric ton, up 67% year on year.
Before the U.S.-Iran war, about 135 vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz each day.
Why did eunuchs “scramble to serve” concubines banished to the Cold Palace? 2 dark secrets revealed—too shocking even for TV dramas.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article examines why eunuchs scrambled to serve concubines banished to the Cold Palace, revealing two dark truths: first, eunuchs could make huge profits through bribes and by dividing up valuables; second, the Cold Palace offered them a way to escape high-risk duties and gain an advantage through a reversal of power.
Facts
The last emperor, Puyi, said that there was no permanent palace in the Forbidden City bearing a plaque reading “Cold Palace”; the term was simply a general concept.
Concubines were usually banished to the Cold Palace for serious offenses, such as poisoning imperial heirs, losing in harem power struggles or being implicated in their families' political affairs. They were stripped of their titles and moved to remote quarters.
One reason eunuchs scrambled to serve in the Cold Palace was the extremely generous financial payoff, including bribes from concubines seeking to maintain their standard of living and the secret division of their gold, silver jewelry and private assets after their deaths.
In the Cold Palace, eunuchs would force concubines who refused to pay them to comply by withholding food and kicking them when they were down.
The balance of power between masters and servants was reversed in the Cold Palace. Disgraced concubines had lost their status and supporters, and rather than punish the eunuchs, they had to curry favor with them to stay alive.
Why is there an extra small hole in a coffee cup lid? It's not for cooling! Experts reveal its real purpose, which most people have missed.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article explains the real purpose of the second small hole in takeaway coffee cup lids: it is an air inlet that balances pressure, not a cooling vent. It also introduces the fluid dynamics behind the design and the evolution of more environmentally friendly materials.
Facts
The small hole in a cup lid primarily lets air in and balances pressure inside and outside the cup, preventing negative pressure from causing liquid to splash.
Physics experiments have shown that the small hole in a cup lid has very limited cooling effect.
DST-Pack CEO 克雷昆 said the small hole is a miniature air valve.
Leak-resistant coatings are shifting from traditional PE to PLA or water-based coatings to meet plastic-reduction goals.
Cup lid designs have evolved over decades, with the molded drinking opening developed in the 1980s.
Top talent from 11 countries crosses oceans to Taiwan! Taoyuan-Hsinchu-Miaoli Branch helps train professionals and export Taiwan's standardized plumbing and electrical technologies to allied nations.
勞動部勞動力發展署桃竹苗分署 and 國際合作發展基金會（國合會） are partnering to offer a vocational training program in electrical and plumbing installation and home appliance repair.
A total of 21 professionals from 11 countries attended the opening ceremony on Oct. 7 at the Caesar Park Hotel Taipei.
The training covers 5 core areas: hands-on practice in indoor wiring, water supply and drainage piping, inspection and repair of window and split-type air conditioners, electrical automatic controls, and integrated practical exercises.
Lai Chia-jen, director of the Taoyuan-Hsinchu-Miaoli Branch, said he hopes trainees will return home as master trainers and pass standardized repair and vocational training methods on to local technicians.
The trainees include key officials responsible for technical development and talent cultivation in their respective countries, such as water officials from public works agencies, senior instructors at vocational training institutions, professors at technical universities, and presidents of engineering associations.
UDB Group wins the National Brand Yushan Award for Outstanding Enterprise! Chairman Li Yi-yuan champions cloud-ground integration to address staffing shortages in health care
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
UDB環德醫管集團 received the Outstanding Enterprise Award at the 23rd National Brand Yushan Awards, recognizing its contributions to cloud-ground integration and the transformation of smart health care.
Facts
UDB環德醫管集團 won the Outstanding Enterprise Award at the 23rd National Brand Yushan Awards, making it the only health technology management company in its industry to receive the honor this year.
UDB developed its U-AI smart health care AI system and obtained a utility model patent for a patient care management system for medical clinics.
A subsidiary of UDB obtained dual certifications for information security and personal data management systems in 2023 and has continued to pass annual certification reviews since then.
UDB Chairman Li Yi-yuan was appointed an adjunct assistant professor at 中山醫學大學口腔醫學院 from 2021 to 2023.
After winning the National Brand Yushan Award, UDB aims to enter the capital market and export Taiwan’s experience as a smart health care demonstration base to Southeast Asia.
Cheng Li-wun says Hualien race is still a blue-green showdown, slams Shen Po-yang and the New Tide faction as democratic turmoil
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun traveled to Hualien County for a mobile Central Standing Committee meeting, saying that although the DPP has no candidate in the county magistrate election, the race is effectively a blue-green showdown. She urged supporters to unite behind KMT candidate Yu Shu-chen. She also strongly criticized Shen Po-yang’s drug policy and pro-Taiwan independence stance, calling them sources of democratic turmoil.
Facts
KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun held a mobile Central Standing Committee meeting in Hualien County on the 7th.
Cheng Li-wun said that while the DPP has no candidate in the Hualien County magistrate election on the surface, it is in practice a blue-green showdown.
Cheng Li-wun criticized Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang for advocating the destigmatization and decriminalization of drugs.
Yu Shu-chen is the candidate officially nominated by the KMT for the Hualien County magistrate election.
In-depth analysis》T-REX’s “NT$500,000 guaranteed annual salary” once stunned Taiwan’s pro baseball league! Why can’t Wing Stars keep the 7 members, including Yi-li and Li Le, who left as a group—the stars it nurtured and made famous?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The departure of 7 members of 台鋼雄鷹Wing Stars has drawn attention, with analysts saying they left mainly to pursue better opportunities and greater freedom. Although the club has tried turning the group into a girl band and hired a strategy chief from the entertainment industry, it still faces a structural conflict in converting popularity into long-term commercial value, while continuing its strategy of developing new talent in-house.
Facts
台鋼雄鷹Wing Stars announced that 7 members—Yi-li, Li Le, Xin0, Ailin, Huang Chengcheng, Xiao-wen and Quan-quan—are leaving the group.
When 台鋼雄鷹 was founded, it stunned the cheerleading market by guaranteeing annual salaries of at least NT$500,000.
In 2025, 台鋼雄鷹 released the single photobook “Cheer it up加大” in a girl-group format; it sold out 2 days after going on sale.
台鋼雄鷹 appointed Sun Hsieh-chih as Wing Stars’ strategy chief in 2024.
台鋼雄鷹 held overseas auditions in South Korea for the first time in 2026, selecting Cho Jae-eun and Lee Yu-kyung.
“The government’s good days are over!” IMF chief warns of triple pressures on the global economy, with concerns lurking behind the AI investment boom
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva warned in a speech in Singapore that the global economy faces triple pressures from the AI investment boom, high energy prices and rising public debt. She stressed that governments must confront difficult political choices to restore fiscal health.
Facts
IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva warned that the global economy is under triple pressure from AI investment, energy prices and public debt.
Global public debt has exceeded US$365 trillion.
AI hardware and related technology products account for more than 10% of global merchandise trade.
If AI translates into productivity gains, it could add up to 0.5 percentage points to annual global economic growth.
Global total debt now exceeds US$365 trillion, and its share of GDP is about to surpass 100%.
The energy shock caused by the conflict in the Middle East is large but remains contained, with oil prices at about US$100 per barrel.
For the past 17 years, governments worldwide have enjoyed relatively easy access to financing, as interest rates have remained below economic growth rates.
Does packing a fridge full of food use more electricity? 台電 says the answers for refrigerated and frozen foods are completely opposite—and many people have been getting it wrong
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
According to 台電, citing its monthly magazine, storage guidelines differ for refrigerator and freezer compartments. The refrigerator compartment should be kept about four-fifths full to allow cold air to circulate and avoid blocking air outlets; the freezer can be packed neatly full, as frozen food helps maintain a low temperature. The advice is intended to improve energy efficiency and draws on recommendations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the FDA.
Facts
台電 recommends keeping the refrigerator compartment about four-fifths full, while the freezer can be packed neatly full.
Overpacking the refrigerator compartment can prevent air from circulating properly, leaving some areas unable to maintain an appropriate temperature.
A full freezer can usually stay cold for about 48 hours during a power outage if the door remains closed.
A half-full freezer can stay cold for only about 24 hours under the same conditions.
美國農業部食品安全檢驗署 advises against overpacking the refrigerator compartment.
Zhao Lusi and Yu Shuxin both lose out! The top 10 ranking of mainland Chinese dramas’ most popular leading actresses is topped by her: beauty and talent, the ultimate traffic queen
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A new online poll has released its TOP 10 ranking of the popularity and online following of the “post-95 actresses.” Guan Xiaotong took the top spot with more than 36 million followers, while Zhao Lusi and Yu Shuxin ranked second and third. The ranking profiles the signature works and achievements of 10 popular actresses, reflecting the dominance of a new generation of performers in the mainland Chinese drama market.
Facts
Guan Xiaotong topped the “post-95 actresses” popularity and online traffic ranking at TOP 1, with her Weibo followers surpassing the 36 million mark.
Yu Shuxin ranked third, with 28.595 million Weibo followers.
Why is there embossing on toilet paper? It’s not for decoration! 3 practical uses you may not have known about for years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article explains 3 practical functions of embossing on toilet paper: bonding the 2 layers of paper, adding loft when sheets are stacked, and maintaining softness. It also cites 全聯福利中心 on how embossing helps with absorbency and resistance to pressure.
Facts
One key function of embossing on toilet paper is to bond the 2 thin layers together and prevent them from separating when pulled.
Embossing creates a fluffy effect when multiple sheets of toilet paper are stacked.
The raised texture created by embossing can improve the surface absorbency of toilet paper.
全聯福利中心 says the support provided by embossing can reduce the chance of toilet paper being flattened by heavy objects.
New Taipei date spots》Not just Tamsui and Banqiao! Take a look at 21 mountain-town hideaways, with hot springs, sea views and romantic sky lanterns
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The article rounds up date spots in the mountain towns and outlying areas of New Taipei City, including Wulai, Ruifang, Pingxi and Shuangxi. They include Wulai Waterfall No. 3, Volando Urai Spring Spa & Resort, Houtong Cat Village, Jiufen Old Street and Pingxi Old Street, offering romantic itineraries featuring hot springs, cats, sky lanterns, and mountain and sea views.
Facts
The New Taipei mountain region mainly comprises Wulai District, Ruifang District, Pingxi District, Shuangxi District, Shiding District, Gongliao District and Pinglin District.
“Waterfall No. 3,” beside Wulai Waterfall, features a glass-house exterior and three floors, including outdoor seating, private rooms and a ball pit.
Houtong Cat Village was once named one of the “world’s six top cat-watching attractions” by CNN.
The Baoshi Mountain Trail is only 166 meters long and is known as “Taiwan’s shortest scenic trail for ocean views.”
Jingtong Station is the terminus of the Pingxi Line and the only remaining Japanese-style wooden station in Pingxi District.
馥森阪治Trio combines hot springs, food, music and hands-on experiences, and periodically holds classes such as flower arranging and tea ceremony.
Jiufen Old Street is especially atmospheric after the lights come on or during the Red Lantern Festival, making it a great place for couples to slow down and enjoy some romantic time together.
Hsu Chia-ching resigns over privilege controversy; Chang Ya-ping mocks her for having “shame at last”: These 5 DPP figures should also step down
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Hsu Chia-ching, chairperson of the Overseas Community Affairs Council, has had her resignation accepted amid a controversy over abusing her privileges. KMT member Chang Ya-ping mocked her for showing belated shame and named 5 senior DPP officials, including Lai Ching-te, who should also step down.
Facts
Hsu Chia-ching announced her immediate resignation as chairperson of the Overseas Community Affairs Council at a news conference on the 7th.
Hsu Chia-ching was accused of taking her son on an overseas trip and having him “pose as a photographer,” while her husband, who is not a diplomat, allegedly drove a government vehicle around.
Chang Ya-ping, head of the KMT’s disciplinary committee, posted that Hsu Chia-ching’s resignation was “belated shame.”
Chang Ya-ping called on Premier Cho Jung-tai, Interior Minister Liu Shih-fang, Defense Minister Wellington Koo, Education Minister Cheng Ying-yao and President Lai Ching-te—the 5 officials—to resign and apologize.
“Old Wang” admits the KMT trails in Kaohsiung by 1-tenth? Wang Chin-ping reportedly angrily fires back with 4 words; Ko Chih-en reveals what he said
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 2026 Kaohsiung mayoral race is drawing attention. Media commentator Shan Hou-chih appeared to mention on his program, after forgetting to turn off his microphone, that “Old Wang” privately admitted the KMT was trailing the DPP in Kaohsiung by more than 10 percentage points. Observers speculated that he meant Wang Chin-ping.
Facts
On media commentator Shan Hou-chih’s program, he appeared to mention, after forgetting to turn off his microphone, that “Old Wang” privately admitted the KMT was trailing the DPP in Kaohsiung by more than 10 percentage points.
Observers believe “Old Wang” refers to former Legislative Yuan president Wang Chin-ping.
Wang Chin-ping blasted the reports as “fake news” and said those responsible should “face the consequences.”
President Lai Ching-te, former President Tsai Ing-wen and DPP Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Lai Jui-lung stressed that “Kaohsiung absolutely must not lose.”
Oct. 9 National Day gala lights up New Taipei! Traffic controls around Banqiao First Stadium; take the railways and MRT to avoid traffic jams
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The New Taipei City Government has announced traffic management and control measures for the Year 115 National Day gala, urging the public to use public transportation. The event will be held at Banqiao First Stadium on October 9. Nearby roads and parking spaces will be subject to restrictions, and service at certain YouBike stations will be suspended.
Facts
The Year 115 National Day gala will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, October 9, at Banqiao First Stadium in New Taipei City.
Traffic controls will be in effect on Quyun Road in Banqiao District, between Haishan Road and Hansheng East Road, from 12 noon to 24:00 on October 9.
Parking spaces for cars and motorcycles on Quyun Road and Haishan Road near Banqiao First Stadium will be unavailable from 16:00 on October 8 to 24:00 on October 9.
The YouBike Banqiao First Stadium station will be out of service from October 7 to October 9.
Passengers on the Bannan Line can get off at Banqiao Station and take Exit 12 through the Xin Zhan Road underpass to reach the venue.
Passengers on the Circular Line can get off at Banxin Station and walk along Zhongshan Road and Hansheng East Road to the venue.
Passengers taking buses can take routes 265區, 604, 657 or Blue 17 to the Haishan Senior High School stop, or route 847 to the First Stadium stop.
Less than 3 months left in 2026! What the 12 zodiac signs should watch for before year-end: Snakes, don’t go all in; Roosters, remember to treat others
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Fortune teller Tang Chen-wei has issued year-end 2026 forecasts for the 12 zodiac signs, advising those born in the Year of the Snake to take investment gains when they can and avoid going all in, while those born in the Year of the Rooster should build connections by treating others. Those born under signs such as the Dragon and Sheep should prioritize their health.
Facts
Fortune teller Tang Chen-wei recently shared things to watch for in the second half of 2026 for the 12 zodiac signs.
Those born in the Year of the Snake may have steady regular income, but should avoid greed in investments and especially resist the impulse to “go all in.”
Those born in the Year of the Rooster should nurture their relationships before year-end and not be stingy when it is their turn to treat.
Those born in the Year of the Dragon should conserve their energy in the second half of the year and pay particular attention to old ailments or physical discomfort. Don’t put off necessary health checkups.
Those born in the Year of the Horse are still in a Tai Sui year. They should plan for risks at work and in their finances in advance and avoid rushing when changes arise.
AI enters hospice care: 成大醫院 uses technology to help patients feel at ease at home through their final journey
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
成大醫院 has introduced AI, remote monitoring and PCA technology to improve hospice care, raising its rate of patients receiving end-of-life care at home to 87% while addressing the caregiving burden on families and the allocation of nursing staff.
Facts
成大醫院 has partnered with the 廣達 team to train AI using extensive clinical data, turning it into a clinical mentor available 24 hours a day.
After one or two years of data screening and model adjustments, the alignment between AI and clinical judgment has improved to about six-tenths.
After PCA patient-controlled analgesia devices were introduced, each patient saved an average of about 146 minutes of administrative processing time per month.
成大醫院’s rate of patients receiving end-of-life care at home rose from 83% in Year 113 to 87% the following year.
The illness stages of patients in all 20 hospice ward beds are now displayed on an electronic whiteboard, helping the head nurse monitor the overall situation.
Indonesian, Vietnamese and English interfaces have been added to the system, with red, yellow and green indicators making it easier to use.
Kang Yong faces backlash from Chinese internet users! Chen Mei-feng, who once appeared with Shen Bo-yang, speaks out: “I’m right here in Taiwan and don’t face this kind of pressure”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Entertainer Kang Yong attended the launch of DPP Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Bo-yang’s campaign headquarters, prompting backlash from Chinese internet users and brands to distance themselves. Chen Mei-feng publicly voiced support for Kang, praising his lifelong curiosity and saying she faces no such pressure in Taiwan. She also mentioned that Michelle Lan and Tung Tzu-wei have faced similar public criticism.
Facts
Kang Yong’s appearance at the launch of Shen Bo-yang’s campaign headquarters draws backlash from Chinese internet users and prompts brands to distance themselves
Chen Mei-feng praises Kang Yong’s lifelong love of learning and says she feels no pressure
Chen Mei-feng once invited Shen Bo-yang onto her program 美鳳有約
Michelle Lan’s photo of blueberries was seen as a response to the school lunch discussion
From the VVIP battlefield to ETFs: Chang Lun-yu unveils 玉山金 2.0 strategy, with horizontal integration creating a multiplier effect
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
玉山金控’s assets have surpassed NT$6.6 trillion as it enters 金控 2.0, with Chang Lun-yu taking over as investment trust chairperson to drive horizontal integration.
Facts
玉山金控 Group’s assets have surpassed NT$6.6 trillion, putting its market capitalization among the top 5 listed financial holding companies.
Chang Lun-yu has become chairperson of 玉山投信, while Chen Mao-chin has been appointed chairperson of 三商美邦人壽.
玉山投信’s AUM target of NT$10 billion, originally set for 3 years, was reached ahead of schedule in September 2026.
玉山金控 will promote integration of products and joint sales across its life insurance, investment trust and banking channels.
玉山投信 is set to launch its first actively managed Taiwan stock ETF, 玉山台灣關鍵科技主動式ETF (00413A-TW).
A century-old molecular mirror-image mystery solved: French and Japanese researchers jointly win the 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced that the 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry will be jointly awarded to French researcher Kagan and Japanese researcher Kenji Soai, recognizing their groundbreaking contributions to the discovery of nonlinear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric organic synthesis.
Facts
The 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry goes to French researcher Kagan and Japanese researcher Kenji Soai
The award recognizes their contributions to “the discovery of nonlinear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric organic synthesis.”
The total prize money is 12 million Swedish kronor, to be split equally between the two.
Kagan was the first to discover nonlinear effects in 1986.
Kenji Soai developed the autocatalytic reaction known as the Soai reaction.
Heiner Linke is chair of the Nobel Committee for Chemistry.
David Pendlebury, head of research analysis at the Clarivate Institute for Scientific Information, commented on the achievement.
No more fear of presale housing projects being halted! 合庫銀 teams up with 台灣金聯 on a construction-completion reserve fund to help buyers take possession smoothly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
合庫銀行 and 台灣金聯 have jointly launched a funding mechanism to support project completion, using trusts and reserve funds to help builders address funding shortfalls. The initiative aims to establish a preventive mechanism, reduce the risk of work stoppages, protect homebuyers’ rights and stabilize the housing market.
Facts
合庫銀行 and 台灣金聯 have teamed up to launch a funding mechanism for project completion. It combines existing trust management and dedicated use of funds with 台灣金聯’s reserve funding for project completion, helping eligible builders establish an additional source of funding.
Amid the central bank’s selective credit controls and a cooling housing market, the mechanism provides a preventive measure that can substantially reduce the risk of construction delays or work stoppages caused by funding shortfalls.
Small and medium-sized builders, particularly those with less capital, are less able to withstand market cycles and changes in financing conditions, making them more vulnerable to cash-flow strains and work stoppages.
The current presale home performance guarantee trust mechanism is primarily focused on safeguarding purchase payments, making it difficult to prevent presale buyers from facing delayed handovers and having their funds tied up for extended periods.
Drawing on its longstanding expertise in real estate asset management and debt resolution, 台灣金聯 offers eligible builders access to reserve funding for project completion, which can be activated promptly if a project encounters an unforeseen funding shortfall.
Combined with 合庫銀行’s professional trust management and dedicated-use-of-funds mechanism, this ensures every dollar is precisely directed toward advancing construction and substantially increases the likelihood that projects will be completed successfully.
The mechanism’s key feature is that it bolsters construction funding at the source, effectively easing financial pressures arising from slowing sales, tighter financing conditions and fluctuations in construction costs.
Major reform for the Hang Seng Tech Index: constituents expanded to 50, with 6 new themes taking effect in December
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
恒生指數公司 announced revisions to the Hang Seng Tech Index methodology, expanding the number of constituents to 50 and adding six technology themes and a dual-track stock selection mechanism. The changes are expected to take effect in December 2026 to improve the index’s representativeness.
Facts
The number of Hang Seng Tech Index constituents will increase from 30 to 50.
The Hang Seng Tech Index reforms are expected to take effect on Dec. 7, 2026.
The technology themes have been reorganized into six categories: digital platforms and solutions, artificial intelligence, advanced hardware, robotics and automation, cloud, and frontier technologies.
Under the stock selection mechanism, 40 constituents will be selected by market capitalization ranking, while the remaining 10 will be selected based on revenue growth over the past 12 months.
Non-constituent stocks must meet a threshold of average daily trading value of HK$100 million over the past 3 months.
Stocks selected based on revenue growth must have annual revenue of at least HK$500 million in each of the most recent 2 fiscal years.
The weighting cap for an individual constituent will remain at 8%.
Getting AI right but still missing market returns? 鉅亨買基金 joins 國泰投信 and 富達投信 to decode investment strategies
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
鉅亨買基金 held an event on the 7th, inviting 國泰投信, 富達投信 and 蕭碧燕 to discuss AI investment strategies. Experts advised investors to focus on how AI technology is translated into actual profits, and to manage market volatility through diversified allocations and regular long-term investing to capture growth opportunities at different stages.
Facts
鉅亨買基金 invited 國泰投信, 富達投信 and fund expert 蕭碧燕 on the 7th to analyze investment strategies.
黃維泰, manager of the 國泰小龍基金, said AI demand is expanding beyond cloud infrastructure into applications such as AI agents, personal computers, smartphones and robots.
林佳撰, a product marketing manager at 富達投信, said growth is no longer concentrated solely in AI semiconductors, with opportunities also available in Asia’s AI supply chain and industries related to capital investment in Japan.
鉅亨買基金’s 鉅亨強勢王 combines strong-performing themes, top-tier funds and its 超底王 mechanism, which triggers additional investments when prices fall.
蕭碧燕 stressed the importance of evaluating a fund’s performance over five to ten years and its behavior in bull and bear markets. She also recommended that investors set up regular investments at amounts suited to their financial means.
Taiwan stocks consolidated on lighter trading volume ahead of the 50,000-point threshold. Although some electronics stocks weakened, the broader uptrend remained intact. Strong AI demand is driving expectations for Q4 operations, and TSMC’s earnings briefing is expected to serve as a catalyst. Funds are shifting toward second- and third-tier AI supply-chain stocks, with a strategy of selecting stocks at the start of a bottoming rally recommended.
Facts
Taiwan stocks closed down 16 points at 49,806, with trading value of about NT$927.5 billion.
Taiwan’s manufacturing PMI rose to 63.4, marking its fastest expansion since August 2021.
Analysts forecast revenue of NT$15.4 trillion for listed companies in Q3 and NT$16.5 trillion in Q4.
The U.S. 10-year Treasury yield is about 5.2%, while the 30-year yield is about 5.6%.
The S&P 500’s earnings growth is forecast at about 35.8% this year and 15.6% next year.
〈Taiwan dollar〉Thin trading and cautious sentiment prevail; closes at 31.795, down 1.4 fen
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The New Taiwan dollar closed down 1.4 fen at 31.795 today, as trading in the foreign exchange market thinned amid cautious sentiment. Asian currencies generally weakened as Taiwan stocks approached the 50,000-point mark and the U.S. dollar index rebounded, while the AI boom and U.S. economic data continued to support the market.
Facts
The New Taiwan dollar closed at 31.795 today, down 1.4 fen.
台北外匯經紀公司 reported trading volume of US$1.374 billion today.
The New Taiwan dollar opened at 31.8, down 1.9 fen, before rising to 31.76 at one point.
The U.S. dollar index surged 0.4%, weakening non-U.S. currencies across the board.
IEA announced the release of 100 million barrels of strategic oil reserves, a move expected to help stabilize oil prices in the short term.
中鋼集團 integrates resources to produce low-carbon steel; 中鴻 and 中馬 leverage complementary production lines
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
中鴻 announced that it had signed an MOU on low-carbon steel with 中鋼馬來西亞, integrating the group’s production-line resources to build a low-carbon steel value chain and respond to the global net-zero transition.
Facts
中鴻 and 中鋼馬來西亞 sign memorandum of understanding (MOU) on low-carbon steel
The cooperation will link 中龍’s steelmaking operations, 中鴻’s hot-rolling operations, and 中鋼馬來西亞’s cold-rolling and galvanizing lines.
The goal is to build a low-carbon steel value chain spanning steelmaking to galvanizing.
The partnership comes amid the global transition to net zero and international carbon management trends
It aims to help customers reduce carbon emissions across their supply chains
〈Top 5 Electronics Firms’ Revenue〉廣達’s Q3 revenue hit a record NT$1.16 trillion, up more than 1-fold year on year; next-generation server products to ramp up in Q1 next year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
廣達’s Q3 revenue hit a record NT$1.16 trillion, up more than 1-fold year on year, with next-generation server products set to ramp up in Q1 next year. Demand in the laptop market has yet to recover, and full-year sales are expected to decline by double digits.
Facts
廣達’s September revenue was NT$325.3 billion, up 76.7% year on year
Next-generation server products are expected to ramp up in the first quarter next year
廣達 shipped 4.2 million laptops in September, down 8.7% year on year
廣達 acquired 友達’s Huaya plant in Guishan, Taoyuan, for AI server capacity
南亞 teams up with South Korea’s heavy electrical equipment maker to establish 「南亞樂星」, targeting AI and the energy transition while expanding in North America
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
南亞 announced a joint venture with South Korea’s LS ELECTRIC to establish 「南亞樂星」, aiming to combine the two sides’ strengths in power equipment and engineering design and expand in Taiwan and North America to meet growing demand for heavy electrical equipment driven by AI and the energy transition.
Facts
南亞 and South Korea’s LS ELECTRIC established the joint venture 「南亞樂星」.
南亞樂星 will initially focus on building localized, fast and comprehensive service capabilities.
LS ELECTRIC has a comprehensive product line certified by the U.S. UL.
南亞 plans to establish a power engineering division in April 2026.
王瑞瑜, executive committee member of the 台塑 Group, and 陳祐聖, senior vice president of 南亞, witnessed the signing of the agreement.
Inflation heats up: Taiwan’s September CPI jumps to 2.73%, highest in more than 2 and a half years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Taiwan’s Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics reported that the September CPI rose 2.73% year on year, its highest increase in more than 2 and a half years, indicating mounting price pressures.
Facts
Taiwan’s September CPI rose 2.73% year on year, its highest increase in more than 2 and a half years.
The September CPI increase was mainly driven by continued rises in dining-out costs and higher oil prices and airfares.
Core CPI, excluding energy, rose 2.52%.
Guava prices rose 57.27%, the largest increase among the items surveyed.
Transportation and communications had the largest increase, at 4.07%.
Hot stocks suddenly plunge! Seagate and Western Digital tumble as 東芝’s expansion threatens to shake up the AI hard drive market
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
希捷 and 東芝 are vying to acquire TDK’s head business to compete for AI storage opportunities, sending shares of 希捷 and 威騰 tumbling. Analysts warn that 希捷 may struggle to win approval, while 東芝’s aggressive expansion of AI hard drive production and ambitious market-share target have emerged as new wild cards for the market.
Facts
希捷 and 東芝 are bidding for TDK’s hard drive head business, which could be worth billions of dollars.
希捷 shares fell 9.2%, while 威騰電子 fell 7%.
東芝 expects to launch 100TB-class HDD products before 2030.
TrendForce forecasts that 東芝 will have a 10% share of the global HDD market in 2026.
雷笛克’s twin engines fire on all cylinders, setting records for September and Q3 revenue
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
雷笛克光學 posted record-high revenue for both September and the third quarter, at NT$140 million and NT$410 million, respectively. Growth in both automotive optical lenses and precision structural components for AI servers drove the results, highlighting the company’s strong performance in the smart headlight and AI hardware supply chains.
Facts
雷笛克光學’s September revenue was NT$140 million, up 5.1% quarter on quarter and 22.8% year on year, a record monthly high.
Orders related to automotive lighting account for more than 55% of 雷笛克’s total orders on hand.
〈渣打 investment outlook〉Gold could soar to US$5,000 next year; yen could strengthen to 153 as U.S.-Japan rate gap narrows
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
渣打銀行 released its outlook for the fourth quarter of 2026, maintaining its bullish view on gold with a target price of up to US$5,000. It forecasts the U.S. dollar index will fall to 98 in the medium term, while the yen could strengthen to 153 as the interest rate gap narrows. The 3-month forecast for oil was raised to US$100 amid supply risks.
Facts
渣打銀行 kept its 3-month gold target at US$4,750 an ounce and its 12-month target at US$5,000 an ounce.
渣打銀行 forecasts that the U.S. dollar index will gradually fall to 98 over the next 12 months.
Original渣打銀行預估未來十二個月美元兌日圓上看153。
渣打銀行 raised its 3-month forecast for West Texas Intermediate crude to US$100 a barrel.
渣打銀行 raised its 12-month target for West Texas Intermediate crude to US$80 a barrel.
美光’s Taiwan MTTW union formally secured strike authorization through a strike vote with strong support. The union’s main demand is a profit-sharing mechanism worth 15% of operating income. 美光 said it would respect employees’ rights in accordance with the law and continue dialogue and mediation.
Facts
美光MTTW union has formally secured the right to strike and establish picket lines
The strike vote turnout was 89.1%, and about 99.1% of actual voters supported the strike
美光’s union is calling for an employee profit-sharing plan equal to 15% of operating income
Taiwan is 美光’s largest manufacturing base
美光 is expected to hold follow-up mediation with the Taichung union later this month
Gary Black, a partner at 未來基金公司, warned investors that while 特斯拉 is a high-quality company, its current valuation is excessive (PEG of about 5.2) and advised caution. Third-quarter deliveries beat expectations, but second-quarter earnings fell short, and the stock has recently been weak.
Facts
Gary Black, managing partner of 未來基金公司, said 特斯拉’s price-to-earnings ratio based on estimated fiscal 2026 earnings is 234 times.
特斯拉’s price/earnings-to-growth (PEG) ratio is about 5.2, which is considered high.
特斯拉 delivered 486,500 vehicles in the third quarter of 2026, beating market expectations.
特斯拉’s adjusted earnings per share in the second quarter of 2026 were US$0.33, below the expected US$0.50.
特斯拉 shares have fallen 16.01% over the past year, closing at US$380.68 on Tuesday.
Companies mentioned：特斯拉、TSLA-US、未來基金公司、The Future Fund LLC
閎康's Q3 revenue hits a record NT$1.7 billion as it moves into high-power supply testing opportunities
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Testing giant 閎康(3587-TW) reported September revenue of NT$569 million, up 12.31% year over year, while third-quarter revenue hit a record NT$1.697 billion. An increase in AI accelerator chip projects and demand for advanced-process verification boosted high-value-added materials analysis (MA) and failure analysis (FA) cases, driving revenue to record highs for 7 consecutive months.
Facts
閎康's September revenue was NT$569 million, up 12.31% year over year
閎康's third-quarter revenue was NT$1.697 billion, a record high
閎康's September revenue marked a new high for the 7th consecutive month
Data center power architectures are evolving toward 800V high-voltage direct current.
閎康 has built capabilities in high-power burn-in verification and advanced failure localization.
研華's September revenue hits its second-highest level, with Q3 setting a record; first-three-quarter revenue surpasses last year's full-year total
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
研華 announced September revenue of NT$10.749 billion, a record high for the same period, while third-quarter revenue of NT$32.44 billion also set a quarterly record. Revenue for the first 3 quarters has already surpassed last year's full-year total. Strong demand for edge AI and semiconductors fueled double-digit revenue growth across all major global markets.
Facts
研華's September revenue reached NT$10.749 billion, a record high for the same period.
研華's third-quarter revenue was NT$32.44 billion, a quarterly record.
研華's revenue for the first 9 months totaled NT$78.952 billion, surpassing last year's full-year total.
研華's new headquarters in Tustin, Southern California, officially opened and began operations.
研華's September revenue in North America rose 108% year over year.
研華's Intelligent Systems business group posted 64% year-over-year revenue growth in September.
研華's Embedded Computing and Peripheral Systems business posted 75% year-over-year revenue growth in September.
A push to break 輝達's dominance! Su Zifeng visits South Korea to promote an “AMD + Korean NPU” system, targeting HBM4 capacity expansion and an open ecosystem to challenge CUDA
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
超微 CEO Su Zifeng visited South Korea to promote an “AMD + Korean NPU” system, targeting HBM4 capacity expansion and an open ecosystem in a bid to challenge 輝達's leading position.
Facts
超微 Chair and CEO Su Zifeng visited South Korea on July 7, meeting the country's Second Vice Minister of Science and ICT, Ryu Je-myeong, and 13 AI companies.
超微 and South Korean companies are combining South Korean AI inference NPUs with 超微 CPUs and GPUs to create a complete system that can rival 輝達's dominance in AI computing.
Su Zifeng said she was “very satisfied” with HBM4 performance, and that 三星 and SK海力士 had provided strong support. The two sides will extend their cooperation across multiple generations of products.
超微 plans to establish an AI excellence research center in South Korea this year, recruit hundreds of researchers, and provide hardware support.
In March this year, 超微 designated 三星 as the preferred HBM4 supplier for the MI455X and discussed having 三星 manufacture future chips.
超微 is encouraging suppliers to expand capacity as soon as possible to support continued business growth and is working with customers to optimize memory usage.
The two sides will adopt 超微's open-source ROCm software stack to complement an integrated inference solution spanning chips, software, and cloud services.
Hong Kong stocks after the close: Major indexes all fall; property stocks surge against the trend, while biomedicine stocks plunge
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Hong Kong's major indexes all fell on the 7th. Property stocks surged against the trend on favorable policy news, while biomedicine and AI healthcare stocks plunged. Market turnover reached HK$94.7 billion.
Facts
恒生指數 fell 0.62%, or 150 points, to 24,130.50 points
世茂集團 surged 22.64%
阿里巴巴 fell 2.59%, 騰訊控股 fell 1.77%, and 小米集團 fell 1.32%
Property: Home prices keep rising! Pre-sale prices per ping top NT$1 million across Taipei City; Wanhua pre-sale prices rise 28.1% in 3 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
永慶房屋 data show that pre-sale home prices per ping have topped NT$1 million across Taipei City, with Wanhua District leading the way with a 28.1% increase over three years. Rising construction costs and development projects have prompted builders to hold firm on prices, leaving average pre-sale home prices about NT$393,000 per ping higher than existing homes.
Facts
Pre-sale home prices per ping in all 12 administrative districts of Taipei City have topped NT$1 million over the past year.
Pre-sale home prices per ping in Wanhua District rose 28.1% over three years, the largest increase among Taipei City districts.
Taipei City's overall average pre-sale home price is nearly NT$400,000 per ping higher than that of existing homes.
The per-ping price gaps between pre-sale and existing homes are NT$698,000 in Da'an District and NT$640,000 in Zhongshan District.
Pre-sale home prices per ping in Zhongzheng District rose 25.5% over the past three years.
Amid tighter mortgage lending, builders are adopting a sales strategy of “reducing project launches and holding firm on prices.”
國巨's September revenue sets another monthly record at NT$17.068 billion; Q3 rises 11% quarter over quarter, also hitting a quarterly record
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
國巨(2327-TW) reported record September revenue of NT$17.068 billion and record third-quarter revenue of NT$49.531 billion. Buoyed by AI demand and orders from European and U.S. customers, revenue for the first 9 months also hit a record for the same period.
Facts
國巨's September revenue reached NT$17.068 billion, a record monthly high.
國巨's third-quarter revenue was NT$49.531 billion, up 11.4% quarter over quarter and 49.7% year over year.
國巨's revenue for the first 9 months totaled NT$132.154 billion, a record for the same period.
國巨's September revenue rose 46.1% year over year and 4.5% month over month.
In U.S. dollar terms, 國巨's September revenue rose 40.4% year over year.
淡馬錫 investment chief: AI and inflation are the biggest market risks in 2027
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Singapore's 淡馬錫 warned that a reversal in the AI investment boom and inflation are the biggest market risks in 2027, and plans to increase the share of public-market assets to maintain flexibility.
Facts
淡馬錫 warned that global markets face 2 core risks: a reversal in the AI investment boom and inflation pushing up bond yields.
淡馬錫 International Chief Investment Officer Rohit Sipahimalani believes the AI trade will not cool immediately, but could face turbulence in 2027.
淡馬錫 plans to raise the share of AI-related investments from 6% to 15% by 2031.
淡馬錫 expects to raise the share of public-market assets from the current 50% to 70% to 75%.
穆巴達拉's investment allocation has risen to 13% from 10% a few years ago.
MAS stress tests show that if AI suffers a severe downturn, as many as 32% of Singapore-listed companies could face significant revenue impacts.
Companies mentioned：淡馬錫、米爾肯研究院、穆巴達拉、Granite Asia Capital、紀源資本、新加坡金融管理局、東協與中日韓總體經濟研究辦公室
久舜 Q3 revenue hits record 772 million yuan, up 68% year on year, as new projects and electromechanical works add momentum
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
久舜營造 (5547-TW) posted record third-quarter 2026 revenue of 772 million yuan, up 68.23% year on year, mainly as projects delayed by soil-related issues resumed revenue recognition and a large commercial office project advanced.
Facts
久舜營造 posted record third-quarter 2026 revenue of 772 million yuan, up 68.23% year on year.
久舜營造 posted monthly revenue of 242 million yuan in September 2026, up 54.88% year on year.
久舜營造 reported cumulative revenue of 1.988 billion yuan for the first three quarters of 2026, up 24.18% year on year.
久舜營造 reported first-half 2026 net profit after tax of 54.84 million yuan and earnings per share of 1.1 yuan.
As of the end of August, 久舜營造 had 19 projects under construction, with a total contract value of 27.011 billion yuan.
久舜營造 had nearly 18 billion yuan in unrecognized project revenue, with factory-office and commercial-office projects, together with public works, accounting for about 76%.
久舜營造's electromechanical engineering subsidiary, 大舜集成, recently won an electromechanical engineering contract related to factory renovation.
啓碁 expands into all-optical and 1.6TbE switches, showcasing products at OCP Global Summit
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Network communications manufacturer 網通廠啓碁 (6285-TW) will exhibit at OCP Global Summit 2026, showcasing AI infrastructure solutions including all-optical and 1.6TbE switches, and introducing a post-quantum cryptography solution to strengthen cybersecurity.
Facts
啓碁's all-optical switch could shorten AI training time by about 30% in certain large-scale workload scenarios.
啓碁 will showcase 三 1.6TbE Ethernet data center switches with 102.4Tbps high-bandwidth capabilities.
The 1.6 TbE NPO switch uses a 6.4T optical engine based on the OPEN CPX MSA architecture.
啓碁's theme at OCP Global Summit 2026 is “Powering the Intelligent Network for AI”.
800G optical transceivers can be used in the two high-speed network architectures, Ethernet and InfiniBand.
Institutional investor activity on October 7, 2026, showed 松瑞藥, 國光生 and 東洋 as the top three net buys; 沛爾生醫*-創, 康霈* and 合一 were the top three net sells.
Biotech stocks on October 7, 2026: 瑞基 led with a 9.85% gain, followed by 亞諾法 and 松瑞藥; 漢達 led decliners with a 6.02% drop, while 金萬林-創 and 台生材 also fell.
10/07 “Biotech Stock Activity” - Global Bio & Investment Monthly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 環球生技月刊
10/07 biotech stock activity: 台康生技 filed an application with the EU's EMA for marketing authorization for breast cancer drug EG1206A; shares of 瑞基, 亞諾法 and 松瑞藥 rose, while 漢達, 金萬林-創 and 台生材 fell; institutional investors net bought 松瑞藥, 國光生 and 東洋, and net sold 沛爾生醫*-創, 康霈* and 合一.
通用幹細胞* (7607) board resolves to convene its second extraordinary shareholders' meeting of 115 on 11/06 (correction) - Global Bio & Investment Monthly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 環球生技月刊
通用幹細胞* (7607) announced that its board resolved to convene its second extraordinary shareholders' meeting of 115 on November 6, with the main agenda including a report on the implementation of its private placement in 114 and a proposal to reduce capital to cover losses.
鼎晉生技 (7876) plans cash capital increase of 15 million shares, with subscription record date on 11/1 (additional information on financing banks, etc.) - Global Bio & Investment Monthly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 環球生技月刊
鼎晉生技 (7876) announced a cash capital increase of 15 million shares, with the subscription record date set for 115/11/01 and an issue price of NT$40 per share. The proceeds will be used to strengthen working capital.
Facts
15,000,000 common shares
Par value per share: NT$10
Total par value: NT$150,000,000
NT$40 per share
Employee subscription shares: 2,250,000
Cash capital increase subscription record date: 115/11/01
景岳 (3164): Undertakings made when applying to transfer its stock from OTC to listed status and subsequent implementation - Global Bio & Investment Monthly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 環球生技月刊
景岳 (3164) announced the undertakings it made when its shares transferred from OTC to listed status. It said that if a subsidiary's financial statements are audited and certified by another accountant, the company's certifying accountant must issue a report that does not refer to the other accountant's audit opinion. As of 115/9/30, no such circumstances had occurred.
Facts
Date of occurrence: 115/10/07
Implementation status for the third quarter of fiscal 115
鑽石投資 (6901): Undertakings made when initially applying for stock listing and subsequent implementation - Global Bio & Investment Monthly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 環球生技月刊
鑽石生技投資股份有限公司 announced the undertakings made when its shares were initially listed and their subsequent implementation, including a commitment not to increase its holdings of 合一生技 shares, an extension of the lockup period for insiders' shares, establishment of a nomination committee, and election of additional independent directors.
10/07 “Biotech Stock Activity” - Global Bio & Investment Monthly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 環球生技月刊
10/07 biotech stock activity: 台康生技 filed an application with the EU's EMA for marketing authorization for breast cancer drug EG1206A; shares of 瑞基, 亞諾法 and 松瑞藥 rose, while 漢達, 金萬林-創 and 台生材 fell; institutional investors net bought 松瑞藥, 國光生 and 東洋, and net sold 沛爾生醫*-創, 康霈* and 合一.