Show off your silhouette with targeted body care. SOWAKA, a gym specializing in glute shaping and posture correction to help each person achieve their ideal figure, opens in October!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
SOWAKA, a gym specializing in glute shaping and posture correction, will open in Chuo Ward, Osaka, on Oct. 24, 2026. It offers one-on-one training and meal plans supervised by a registered dietitian to address concerns among working women, including pelvic misalignment, an arched lower back and sagging glutes.
Facts
Grand opening on Oct. 24, 2026
Special price: 3,500 yen (tax included)
Special price for 60 minutes
Within a 6–8-minute walk of the station
Hours: 8:00–21:00
Companies mentioned：合同会社ProGress、SOWAKA、Osaka Metro
Anthony, Linder & Cacomanolis, PLLC welcomes Tomoharu Ogawa as Of Counsel in its Tokyo office, strengthening ties in U.S.-Japan capital markets
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Anthony, Linder & Cacomanolis, PLLC has welcomed Tomoharu Ogawa as Of Counsel in its Tokyo office, strengthening its collaboration and legal support in U.S.-Japan capital markets.
KATAZUKE launches new product, the tote-bag-style tissue case Skal・Tote (スコール・トート)!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社KATAZUKE will begin selling the tote-bag-style tissue case “Skal・Tote” on Amazon and 楽天市場 starting Oct. 10, 2026. It comes in 3 colors and is manufactured by a factory that makes bags for famous brands.
SAUNA NOVA sauna hats surpass 30,000 cumulative units sold: “Why customers choose them,” as seen in more than 1,200 reviews
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Nova Clearly, which operates SAUNA NOVA, announced that cumulative sales of its “Vaceous Sauna Hat” series have surpassed 30,000 units. It shares what customers value, areas for improvement and plans to expand sales channels, drawing on more than 1,200 reviews.
Facts
Series surpasses 30,000 cumulative units sold
More than 1,200 reviews
More than 98% rated it 4 stars or higher
Price (tax included): 7,920 yen
Companies mentioned：株式会社Nova Clearly、SAUNA NOVA、CAMPFIRE、楽天市場、Amazon、3M社、SAUNA東京、毎日サウナ、スゴイサウナ、nico and ... SAUNA
【New connections through posts and comments】“Hills high,” a fully screened matchmaking app, adds “Lounge Likes” feature
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Triplecomma株式会社 has added “Lounge Likes,” a new feature to “Hills high,” its fully screened matchmaking app, that lets users send likes to people they are interested in through posts and comments in the anonymous “Lounge” community.
Web media outlet “THE BOSS” publishes its 2nd executive interview: “Strategic rest” with the Fujita couple of 株式会社ＹＵＥ, a head-focused acupuncture clinic in Nihonbashi
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“THE BOSS,” a web media outlet operated by 株式会社ナレッジホールディングス, has published the 2nd executive interview with the Fujita couple of 株式会社ＹＵＥ, who run “ＹＵＥ ヘッド鍼灸マッサージ,” an acupuncture clinic specializing in head treatments in Nihonbashi, Tokyo. Just over 1 year after founding the business, they discuss a service that combines treatment and hairstyling, as well as the concept of “strategic rest.”
日本経営グループ to welcome domestic and international healthcare leaders for MOU signing ceremony and international symposium — Nov. 14 in Tokyo; 100 people invited free of charge (Nov. 14, Tokyo)
【Free webinar】Drive web customer acquisition without relying on outsourcing! “Latest AI Updates & Claude Design Workshop” for homebuilders to be held on Friday, Oct. 23
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社シンミドウ will hold a free webinar on Oct. 23 for homebuilders, covering the latest AI updates and web customer acquisition using Claude Design.
【Judo】Guide to watching the Baku World Championships (6): Day 6! Michihiro Arai and Kurenai Ikeda to compete
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On day 6 of the 2026 Baku World Judo Championships (Oct. 9), Michihiro Arai (東海大学) will compete in the men’s 100kg category and Kurenai Ikeda (コマツ) in the women’s 78kg category, aiming for their first titles and the world championship.
4 members selected from approximately 1,000 applicants set out to shape a new idol scene: an “urban girly techno-pop idol” group launches! Pre-debut live show set for Oct. 16 (Fri.) in Shinjuku, hosted by Junichi Kawamoto of Jichō Kachō!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The “urban girly techno-pop idol” group “瞬間恋愛（SHUNREN）” will officially launch in October 2026, with a pre-debut live show featuring 4 members selected from approximately 1,000 applicants, to be held in Shinjuku on Oct. 16. Junichi Kawamoto of Jichō Kachō will host.
【Online seminar on Nov. 26】How will AI change schedule creation?
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Arent will hold an online seminar on Nov. 26, 2026, to showcase features of “PROCOLLA,” an AI cloud-based construction scheduling management system co-developed with 大林組.
An event featuring “Musical Play for Parents and Children, Enjoyable from Age 0 Through Elementary School” will be held.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
特定非営利活動法人ほっぺ will host “Music Play for Parents and Children, from Age 0 to Elementary School,” an event featuring musician and current special needs school teacher Maki-sensei, at Heartful Plaza in Miki City on Oct. 17, 2026.
Piyorin will return to メ～テレ’s “Dode Festival 2026”! New limited-edition “Wolfy × Piyorin” collaboration product to go on sale
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Piyorin” from ジェイアール東海フードサービス株式会社 will exhibit at “Dode Festival 2026,” hosted by メ～テレ, and sell limited-edition collaboration products and merchandise.
助太刀 unveils details of its corporate booth at Designship 2026! Offering an interactive “Designer Diagnosis” to discover your strengths and exclusive giveaways
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社助太刀 will exhibit as a gold sponsor at the design conference “Designship 2026,” taking place on Oct. 10 and 11, 2026. It will offer a “Designer Diagnosis,” distribute exclusive giveaways and hold a speaker session.
ジーユー will launch its 3rd collaboration with New York fashion brand ENGINEERED GARMENTS, the 2026 Fall/Winter collection, on Oct. 26, 2026. The collection is themed “Daily Expedition” and includes 8 men’s styles, priced from 2,990 yen to 9,990 yen.
クラスター wins Wakayama Prefecture’s “High School Education Reform Promotion Hub Management Project (N-E.X.T. High School Initiative),” building a virtual space at Kishigawa High School to support students who do not attend school
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
クラスター株式会社 has been selected by the 和歌山県教育委員会 through a public tender as the contractor for the “Reiwa 8 Fiscal Year Wakayama Prefecture High School Education Reform Promotion Hub Operation Project (N-E.X.T. High School Initiative).” It will build and operate a virtual space at 貴志川高校 to support students who do not attend school.
Facts
Reiwa 8 Fiscal Year Wakayama Prefecture High School Education Reform Promotion Hub Operation Project
Aooo’s やまもとひかる and ツミキ sport “textures and patterns to play with”; adidas Originals brings back last year’s sold-out velour in new styles, with fall/winter looks available from Friday, October 9
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ABCマート will launch its adidas Originals fall/winter campaign on October 9, featuring やまもとひかる and ツミキ of rock band Aooo. The lineup includes velour items that sold out last year, as well as animal-print and metallic shoes.
“Beloved Princess: Aiko-sama Calendar 2027” — a large-format calendar measuring 30 centimeters square; on sale October 9
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社主婦と生活社 will release “Beloved Princess: Aiko-sama Calendar 2027,” a 2027 wall calendar featuring photographs of Her Imperial Highness Princess Aiko, on October 9.
The Dode Festival’s official goods shop opens again this year! “Dode Shoten” features a Piyorin 15th-anniversary collaboration and limited-edition goods with Nana-chan!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
メ～テレ will open the official goods shop “Dode Shoten” at Dode Festival 2026. Limited-edition items will include a collaboration between Wolfy and Piyorin for Piyorin’s 15th anniversary, a first-ever collaboration keychain with Nana-chan, and bags with OUTDOOR PRODUCTS.
Facts
The 15th anniversary of Piyorin’s debut
Price: ¥3,900 (tax included)
Price: 990 yen (tax included)
Price: 1,600 yen (tax included)
Price: ¥1,200 (tax included)
Station attendant Wolfy × Wolfy Nana-chan keychain (770 yen)
【フジテレビ】Starring 鳥居功太郎／Cast: 板尾創路・GYUTAE／Directed by 三野龍一／林みなほ’s first production, “Tanaka in Wonderland,” to stream exclusively on FOD SHORT from 0:00 on Friday, October 9
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Tanaka in Wonderland,” starring 鳥居功太郎, began streaming exclusively on October 9 on “FOD SHORT,” the vertical short-drama app operated by フジテレビ.
Facts
From 0:00 on Friday, October 9
Original１話約１分の
5 episodes every day
More than 5.5 million total social media followers
More than 3 billion total views
As of September 30, 2026
“Tanaka in Wonderland” (60 episodes)
Companies mentioned：株式会社フジテレビジョン、フジテレビ、TBS、sai & co.、THINGMEDIA Inc.
【Ballelite】Third collaboration with Sanrio Characters! Limited-edition designs featuring “Pompompurin” and “My Melody & Kuromi” also debut!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Ballelite, jointly funded by 株式会社マッシュホールディングス and グンゼ株式会社, will launch the third collaboration with Sanrio Characters on October 8, 2026, selling limited-edition “Pompompurin” and “Kuromi” designs on compression leggings, socks and other items. “My Melody & Kuromi” designs are also scheduled for release in early November.
Report on the press conference and signing event marking the publication of Nozomi Sasaki’s once-in-20-years photo essay “Natural”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A report on the press conference and signing event for “Natural,” a photo essay in which Nozomi Sasaki shares her unvarnished self, published to mark 20 years in the entertainment industry.
The long-awaited second volume of “The Heiress,” a fan-obsessed young heiress fantasy in which immense wealth and ingenuity solve every problem! A theft takes place at her favorite performer’s theater!? She steps in with flair as one bizarre incident after another comes her way!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
キルタイムコミュニケーション will release “The Heiress 2,” a ブリーゼコミックス title, on October 14. The second volume of this fan-obsessed fantasy manga follows Patrizia, the daughter of a billionaire, as she uses her wealth to solve thefts and other cases.
Winner of the “Gelato World Tour 2026 Japan Competition” final is 25-year-old rising artisan 智大 竹野
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The final of the “Gelato World Tour 2026 Japan Competition,” organized by カルピジャーニ・ジャパン, was held on October 8, with 智大竹野 of マルガージェラート in Ishikawa Prefecture taking the top prize.
Facts
Thursday, Oct. 8
12 finalists
A 70-minute time limit
A 10-minute presentation
9 judges
160th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations
Companies mentioned：株式会社おいしいJAPAN、カルピジャーニ、カルピジャーニ・ジャパン株式会社、LUMINE 0、ルミネゼロ、マルガージェラート、ホテルグランヴィア大阪、Patisserie Ludique、ARIETTA DEL GELATO、ジェラテリアpacherryb.、パティスリーカフェ ロワゾブルー、森永乳業株式会社、日仏貿易株式会社、日仏商事株式会社、アイスクリームプレス株式会社、株式会社日本食糧新聞社、立命館大学、SIGEP
Paris-born bag brand “MICHINO PARIS” unveils a limited-edition collaboration bag with Yukiko Kashiwagi!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Paris-born bag brand “MICHINO PARIS” has announced plans to sell 3 limited-edition bags (99 in total) created in collaboration with Yukiko Kashiwagi at a pop-up in Tokyo in October 2026.
Facts
3 types in total
33 each
99 in total
Friday, 10/16/2026
Monday, 10/19
Companies mentioned：MICHINO PARIS、MICHINO SARL、BENE-表参道、THE PLAYHOUSE、MICHINO JAPAN 合同会社
“A talent bestowed upon a monster. Is it a blessing or a curse?” The Boxer TV anime adaptation confirmed! 株式会社BLUE RIGHTS joins as creative producer!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A TV anime adaptation of “The Boxer,” with 株式会社BLUE RIGHTS serving as creative producer, was announced at New York Comic Con on October 8, 2026. Production will be handled by breccia and STUDIO JEMI, and cast and staff details were also revealed.
【Career survey of 2,163 people in their 20s】“I can do the job. But I can’t see what lies ahead.” Workers with 6 or more years of service tend to be less satisfied with evaluations and promotions and have fewer career discussions
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
4designs株式会社 announced that an analysis of career survey data from 2,163 people in their 20s found that those with 6 or more years of service tend to have greater confidence in their skills, but lower satisfaction with their income, less confidence in their evaluations and promotions, and fewer career discussions with their supervisors. In response to these findings, the company will hold a briefing on the launch of its new graduate employee development program.
Facts
2,163 people in their 20s who reported their length of service
The group with 6 or more years of service scored 8.3 points higher
A tendency to score 7.7 points lower was observed
The group in its 0–2 year of employment scored 53.6 points
The group with 6 or more years of service scored 61.9 points
The group in its 0–2 year of employment scored 72.1 points
The group with 6 or more years of service scored 61.6 points
The group in its 0–2 year of employment scored 71.8 points
The group with 6 or more years of service scored 62.9 points
The group in its 0–2 year of employment scored 66.8 points
The group with 6 or more years of service scored 59.1 points
That man is coming back—. The second teaser visual for the all-new anime EAT-MAN The Over Order is unveiled!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The second teaser visual for the all-new anime EAT-MAN The Over Order, based on Akihito Yoshitomi’s science-fiction manga EAT-MAN, was unveiled for the first time worldwide at NYCC, currently being held in New York. Animation is being produced by スタジオキャブ, with Masashi Ehara voicing the protagonist, Bolt Crank.
The webtoon The Boxer, available exclusively on LINEマンガ, is getting a TV anime! Main cast, staff and teaser PV also unveiled
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
LINE Digital Frontier株式会社 announced a TV anime adaptation of the webtoon The Boxer, available exclusively on its digital comics service LINEマンガ. The main cast and staff information, as well as a teaser PV, were unveiled, and a free campaign for the original work will also be held.
Facts
More than 1.06 billion views worldwide
A campaign offering 25 free episodes of the original webtoon The Boxer
On South Korea’s NAVER WEBTOON since 2019
On Japan’s LINEマンガ since 2020
Serialized from 2020 to 2022
Companies mentioned：LINE Digital Frontier株式会社、LINEマンガ、NAVER WEBTOON、breccia、STUDIO JEMI、BLUE RIGHTS、HAYATE
株式会社HAYATE, LINE Digital Frontier株式会社 and Crunchyroll, LLC partner to adapt webtoon titles into anime
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社HAYATE, LINE Digital Frontier株式会社 and Crunchyroll, LLC announced a co-production partnership to adapt webtoon titles from LINEマンガ into anime. They plan to develop and produce around 15 titles, with completed works to be streamed exclusively by Crunchyroll.
Facts
With around 15 titles planned
The following 3 titles
114.8% year on year
3.8407 trillion yen
126.0% year on year
2.1702 trillion yen
1.6705 trillion yen
7 countries
Approximately 29,000 people
More than 150 countries worldwide
Approximately 155 million people
27 million people
Companies mentioned：株式会社HAYATE、LINE Digital Frontier株式会社、WEBTOON Entertainment Inc.、Crunchyroll, LLC、日本動画協会、National Research Group、アニプレックス、ソニー・ピクチャーズ エンタテインメント・インク、株式会社ソニー・ミュージックエンタテインメント、Sensor Tower
The hugely popular webtoon The Remarried Empress, available exclusively on LINEマンガ, is getting a TV anime in 2027!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
LINE Digital Frontier株式会社 announced that a TV anime adaptation of the webtoon The Remarried Empress, available exclusively on its digital comics service LINEマンガ, is set for 2027.
Facts
630 million domestic views to date
2.97 billion views worldwide to date
Set to air in 2027
Companies mentioned：LINE Digital Frontier株式会社、LINEマンガ
The original LINEマンガ webtoon Mercenary Enrollment is set to air as a TV anime in 2027; teaser visual unveiled!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
LINE Digital Frontier株式会社 announced that Mercenary Enrollment, an original webtoon on its digital comics service LINEマンガ, will be adapted into a TV anime in 2027 and unveiled a teaser visual.
Facts
940 million domestic views to date
2.84 billion views worldwide to date
A campaign offering 30 free episodes of the original webtoon Mercenary Enrollment
10 gift cards are being given away
Companies mentioned：LINE Digital Frontier株式会社、LINEマンガ、J.C.STAFF
Iconic Initial D scenes rendered in full embroidery. Limited-quantity Initial D sukajan jackets go on sale to the public on 楽天市場
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社フェイス’s CAMSHOP.JP, a lifestyle goods brand for vehicle enthusiasts, has obtained an official license to produce a fully embroidered sukajan jacket featuring the popular manga Initial D and has begun selling it in limited quantities on 楽天市場.
[Report] 2026 digital advertising insights in South Korea
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
South Korea’s digital ad spending from January to August 2026 rose 26% year on year to approximately $4 billion, setting a record. This report examines how the service and digital-native sectors drove growth, along with brand trends for Samsung, DJI and Roborock and shares by channel.
FOD, the video streaming service operated by フジテレビ, will release all 4 episodes of its original documentary Kabuki SANCTUARY exclusively at 0:00 on December 25. The series re-edits footage filmed over 38 years following the prestigious Nakamuraya kabuki family. The 密着！中村屋ファミリー series will also be released in installments.
Facts
All episodes will be released at once from 0:00 on Friday, December 25
Filmed continuously over 38 years
All 4 episodes
Footage totaling more than 20,000 hours of filming
Approximately 30 minutes per episode
All 5 episodes will be released at once
A total of 22 installments have aired to date
1,320 yen per month (tax included)
More than 100,000 titles
More than 200 magazines
More than 700,000 e-books
Available at a discounted 1,200 yen (tax included)
“You’d think it was marble, but it’s cardboard!?” Stylish cardboard boxes that make great in-store displays and fixtures go on sale (cardboard online shop)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アースダンボール launched the marble-patterned cardboard box “Design Cardboard Box (Marble) [Home Delivery 80 Size]” on Oct. 8, 2026. This lightweight, environmentally friendly product can be used for store displays, fixtures and art props.
A replaceable LED top-board Colton sign combines LED brightness with the convenience of paper posters
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ゴッドスピード began selling the 36-inch top-board LED Colton sign “GS-900CL” in October 2026. It combines a high-brightness LED backlight of approximately 800 cd/m² with replaceable poster displays, and can be installed on store fixtures or used as a promotional tool.
学校法人アジア学院 will hold a fall used book fair from Oct. 30 to Nov. 7, 2026, at the former missionary residence next to the Nasu Seminar House. Donated books will be sold for 100 yen and up, and sweets and Indian curry are also scheduled to be sold during the event.
The winning strategies honed on Rakuten Ichiba and Amazon won't work!? Secrets to boosting sales unique to Yahoo! Shopping: “A Guide to Selling on Yahoo! Shopping for Sellers Who Are Serious About Making Money” goes on sale Oct. 26
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社秀和システム新社 will publish “A Guide to Selling on Yahoo! Shopping for Sellers Who Are Serious About Making Money” on Oct. 26, 2026. Author Mamoru Ueno says that successful strategies on Rakuten Ichiba and Amazon do not work on Yahoo! Shopping, and explains sales-boosting measures specific to the platform.
The November issue of Bungeishunju goes on sale: “Showa 百年: 50 Beautiful Japanese People”; “Makiko Tanaka Questions Sanae Takaichi”; “Masahiro Motoki's Confession at 60”; “Enjoying ‘Our Hakone Ekiden’ 10 Times More: Jun Ikeido × Yo Oizumi”; “Sleep Is the Best Investment in Health”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社文藝春秋 will release the November issue of Bungeishunju on Oct. 9, 2026. The main feature is “Showa 百年: 50 Beautiful Japanese People,” introducing 51 people, from the Emperor Emeritus and Empress Emerita to Shohei Ohtani. The issue also includes Makiko Tanaka's questions to Sanae Takaichi, Masahiro Motoki's confession, and a conversation between Jun Ikeido and Yo Oizumi.
The reality of “operational deficits” is spreading across incident response teams at large companies. 93.7% of engineers say they have “no breathing room”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
PagerDuty株式会社 surveyed 316 people responsible for incident response at companies with 1,000 or more employees. 93.7% said they had “no breathing room,” with limits in operational systems and a gap in understanding with management emerging as challenges.
Jie Zhong's column: New Fighter Jets Should Prioritize Long-Range Strike Missions Against Mainland China
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Air Force has received its first batch of F-16V fighter jets, whose conformal fuel tanks and new engines substantially extend their range and endurance. The article argues that this advantage should be used to strengthen long-range strike capabilities against mainland China, and notes that the United States has recommended that the armed forces adopt a defensive preemptive strategy.
Facts
The first 2 single-seat F-16C/D Block70 fighter jets took off from Guam at 8:30 a.m. on October 2 and landed at Chihhang Air Base in Taitung at noon the same day.
The conformal fuel tanks fitted to F-16C/D Block70 fighter jets can carry an additional 450 gallons of fuel.
The F110-GE-129 engines on F-16C/D Block70 fighter jets have a maximum afterburning thrust of 29,500 pounds.
Without external fuel tanks, the combat radius of an F-16C Block70 on a typical mission is about 700 to 800 kilometers.
Delivery of the AGM-154C air-to-ground standoff glide bomb (JSOW) will begin in 2027.
Li Qize's view: Three Things Rubio Said That Taiwan Should Read Together
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
At a United Nations press conference, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio outlined 三 points: that U.S.-China relations will define the 二十一世紀, that the United States puts its national interests first, and that arms sales are constrained by production capacity and inventory. The article argues that Taiwan should strengthen its role in supply chains and establish channels of communication with the mainland to safeguard its security and standing in a century defined by interests.
Facts
U.S. Secretary of State Rubio held a press conference at United Nations headquarters on September 二十三日, citing his view that U.S.-China relations will define the 二十一世紀.
Rubio stressed that as long as Trump is in office, the United States will always act in its national interests and will never place the international order above U.S. interests.
Rubio said delays in arms sales to Taiwan stem from U.S. industrial capacity and inventory constraints: once the equipment is sold, the United States has none left for itself, and it cannot produce more at present.
Last 十二月, an arms sale to Taiwan worth 一百一十一億 U.S. dollars, the largest ever, was just completed, but the second batch worth 一百四十億 U.S. dollars remains undecided.
In 八月 this year, the Ministry of National Defense ordered more than 2,000 drones from Anduril, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs helped more than 十 Taiwanese manufacturers enter its supply chain.
On 九月三十日, Beijing changed “opposing separatist actions for Taiwan independence” to “combating separatist forces for Taiwan independence,” while restoring “peaceful development of cross-strait relations.”
At the end of 二○一九年, Rubio gave a speech at the National Defense University as a senator, opening by saying that the most defining geopolitical relationship of this century is the U.S.-China relationship.
Liu Jincai's view: A Double-Edged Sword? The Benefits and Limitations of Taiwan's International Religious Exchanges
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article analyzes the benefits and limitations of Taiwan's international religious exchanges, noting their double-edged effects. On one hand, advocacy for religious freedom and cultural exchanges raise Taiwan's international profile; on the other, excessive politicization could exacerbate cross-strait conflict and restrict normal exchanges.
Facts
In July 2018, the U.S. Department of State held the first “Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom” and released the “Potomac Plan of Action.”
In 2019, the Tsai Ing-wen administration appointed Bushi Dali, president of Yushan Theological College, as the first ambassador-at-large for religious freedom.
In May 2026, Taiwan and the Embassy of the United States to the Holy See held an international workshop at the Holy See through the GCTF on “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work.”
In May 2026, Beigang Chaotian Temple's Mazu made its first large-scale visit to Japan, with about 170 worshippers traveling together to Tokyo and other locations for exchanges.
In October 2025, the Ministry of the Interior said there had been at least 116 cross-strait religious exchange activities supported by mainland Chinese officials in 2024.
As of October 2025, 67 religious groups and 2,971 participants had completed registration for exchanges in mainland China.
Huang Jinsheng's view: A Clear, Resonant Voice Rings Out—Revealing the Truth and Clearing His Name, as Diplomats Live in Fear
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The posthumous work of former ambassador to Nicaragua Wu Jinmu has been published, revealing the truth behind the severance of diplomatic ties. It criticizes senior Foreign Ministry officials for shifting blame and online trolls for bullying, which created a chilling effect among diplomats, and calls for his reputation to be restored.
Facts
On September 29, 2026, media published a front-page story about the posthumous work of former ambassador to Nicaragua Wu, “A Clear, Resonant Voice: Echoes of Wu Jinmu's Diplomatic Career.”
Ambassador Wu Jinmu died of illness in 2025, and his wife published a book in 2026 to clear his name.
As early as 2020, Ambassador Wu Jinmu had submitted his resignation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs four times because his wife's health was deteriorating.
The day after diplomatic ties were severed, Wu was “passively granted citizenship” by Nicaraguan authorities as a political bargaining chip.
An investigation report by the Control Yuan later confirmed Wu's innocence.
The author is executive director of the Association for Protecting the Rights of Foreign Service Personnel and Promoting Workplace Ethics.
Zhuang Shengrong's view: The Unconstitutional Constitutional Court and Strengthening Legislative Assistants
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Lawyer Zhuang Shengrong criticizes certain provisions of the Constitutional Court Procedure Act as unconstitutional, arguing that the law should be amended to clarify the source of the justices' authority and establish a retrial mechanism for erroneous rulings. He also recommends improving pay for legislative assistants to enhance the quality of legislation.
Facts
Clauses 1, 2 and 5 of Article 1 of the Constitutional Court Procedure Act have been alleged to be unconstitutional because they exceed the powers of the justices stipulated in Article 78 of the Constitution and Article 5 of the Additional Articles.
The Constitution and its Additional Articles enumerate the powers of Judicial Yuan justices and do not include unspecified circumstances, in keeping with the principle of constitutional reservation.
U.S. representatives may hire 18 full-time aides and 4 part-time aides, while senators usually have 30 to 40 aides.
Sanae Takaichi once interned in the office of U.S. Representative Patricia Schroeder for 1 year and 4 months.
The author recommends amending the Constitutional Court Procedure Act in the future and taking the opportunity to revise the remedies for retrial when Constitutional Court rulings are erroneous or circumstances change.
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an announced plans to begin planning for the relocation of Songshan Airport, estimating that assessment and consultations with the central government will take six years. The issue has been under discussion for nearly 六十 years, and many former mayors have raised it, but implementation in the short term will be extremely difficult because it involves central government jurisdiction and infrastructure timelines.
Facts
Chiang Wan-an announced plans for the relocation of Songshan Airport and proposed an approximately 六-year planning and assessment period.
One prerequisite for relocating Songshan Airport is the opening of Taoyuan Airport's Terminal 3 next year, with the third runway scheduled for completion in 二〇三三年.
Former Minister without Portfolio Chang Ching-sen believes that although several opportunities to relocate Songshan Airport have been missed, the issue is still worth revisiting.
In addition to serving civil aviation, Songshan Airport also handles domestic disaster relief, government charter flights, evacuation of national leaders, and the evacuation of international visitors.
10/9 Morning News Brief｜During the National Day long weekend, beware: this Taiwan Railway train type will suspend unreserved seating; Shen Po-yang grilled about his stance on drugs on “Shaokang War Room”; New Taipei 5-term councilor accused of buying votes with Guanmiao noodles
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The National Day long-weekend travel rush is underway: Taiwan Railway's EMU3000 trains will suspend unreserved seating, and Taiwan High Speed Rail will add services. In politics, Shen Po-yang clarified his position on drugs, while New Taipei councilor Huang Yongchang was released on bail over alleged vote-buying. In judicial news, a man was sentenced to death in the Hualien case involving the sexual assault and murder of a female teacher; in election news, 9 candidates in Pingtung were found ineligible.
Facts
During Taiwan Railway's National Day transportation period, EMU3000 trains on the western trunk line will suspend unreserved seating and instead offer a limited number of standing tickets for sale.
Shen Po-yang said in an interview that he opposes marijuana legalization and has not advocated decriminalizing drugs.
Huang Yung-chang, a New Taipei City councilor from the Kuomintang, was ordered to post NT$1 million bail over alleged vote-buying by distributing Guanmiao noodles.
The Hualien District Court sentenced a mute man to death in the first instance for breaking into a dormitory, raping and murdering a female teacher.
The Pingtung County Election Commission found that 9 candidates for township representatives and village and neighborhood chiefs did not meet the eligibility requirements.
During long weekends, most people who have moved north choose to return home for family reunions or travel, relying mainly on driving or the dual-rail public transit system.
It is recommended that 台鐵 and 高鐵 jointly establish a ticketing system that consolidates ticket availability across all routes and time slots.
台鐵 should allow standing tickets across the board on its New Tze-Chiang and Puyuma trains during certain time slots to flexibly increase capacity.
During special periods, 高鐵 should temporarily stop serving short-distance passengers and direct them to 台鐵.
It is recommended that government agencies and companies in northern Taiwan make flexible adjustments on the eve of long holidays, allowing employees to leave work two hours early.
In areas without stations shared by the two rail systems, 台鐵 could run special limited-stop or Tze-Chiang trains that stop at the same stations as 高鐵 to accommodate passengers.
Women born under these 3 zodiac signs are blessed with the most helpful benefactors! They receive support when young and help in times of trouble, and life gets easier in their later years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article analyzes the fortunes of women born in the Year of the Rabbit, Goat and Horse when it comes to helpful benefactors. Because of their gentle, considerate or independent natures, these women are likely to earn others' trust and admiration. They receive support from youth into old age, and enjoy smoother, more carefree lives.
Facts
According to a post shared by 《搜狐網》, women born in the Year of the Rabbit, Goat and Horse have good social connections and tend to attract helpful benefactors. They receive support when young and help in times of trouble, and life gets easier in their later years.
Women born in the Year of the Rabbit make a gentle first impression and dislike direct confrontation. Their considerate manner helps them build stable relationships and attract benefactors who are willing to help them over the long term.
Women born in the Year of the Goat are perceptive and often pick up on others' emotions. They are considerate and able to put themselves in others' shoes, building strong relationships and receiving help when they encounter difficulties.
Women born in the Year of the Horse are independent and tend to figure things out on their own, disliking excessive reliance on others. Their strong drive and ambition make them likely to earn the admiration of capable people.
Helpful benefactors for women born in the Year of the Horse often appear when they are working hard to move forward and preparing to take the next step. They may be mentors who recognize their potential, new job opportunities, or people who continue to believe in them during difficult times.
Opinion: Shen Po-yang's “drug tide” is damaging Taipei's long-standing culture of free public discussion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The opinion piece criticizes Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang for reviving a climate of division in the 2026 election campaign. It cites his past remarks supporting drug decriminalization and accuses his supporters of attacking Mayor Chiang Wan-an and undermining space for rational discussion in Taipei.
Facts
In 2014, Shen Po-yang wrote an article under the pen name “Pu Ma” for 《想想論壇》, arguing that drugs should be equated with pharmaceuticals and proposing community centers that would provide drugs and clean needles to people who use drugs.
When challenged, Shen Po-yang sought to shift responsibility to the Ma Ying-jeou government and Mayor Chiang Wan-an, and used the ambiguity of an English word to defend himself.
Shen Po-yang's supporters, known as the “Bluebirds,” flooded Mayor Chiang Wan-an's Facebook page with attacks on a massive scale, leading to online bullying.
The author says Shen Po-yang misleadingly portrayed legally implemented harm-reduction measures, including methadone substitution treatment and clean needles, as a scare tactic by Chiang Wan-an, who supposedly opposes them.
The author demands that Shen Po-yang answer whether he still supports providing drugs at community centers and whether he still supports drug decriminalization.
Wang Pang-hsu's view: Taiwan's global industrial expansion and the collaborative role of Taiwan-funded banks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Wang Pang-hsu analyzes how Taiwan's industries are entering a phase of expanding westward into the semiconductor supply chain. He says Taiwan-funded banks should use Taiwan-U.S. financing guarantee mechanisms to help supply-chain companies set up factories in the United States and address cross-border tax and compliance issues.
Facts
Revenue from 台積電's U.S. operations accounts for about 74.4% of its total revenue
Revenue from 緯創's U.S. operations also accounts for 70% of its total revenue
Original台美融資保證機制提供最高2,500億美元企業授信額度
Taiwan-funded companies that repatriate funds as dividends are subject to a 30% dividend withholding tax
Interest income from cross-border financing is subject to a 30% withholding tax
Chang Ching-wen's column: The human heart, AI and the atomic bomb—who will be the next Oppenheimer?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
In this column, Chang Ching-wen cites AI warnings from Bill Gates, Amodei and Hinton, compares the risks of AI with those of the atomic bomb, and explores whether people calling for AI to slow down will become the next Oppenheimer when scientific dissent meets national security competition.
Facts
Bill Gates, Anthropic co-founder and CEO Dario Amodei, and “AI godfather” Hinton have all issued increasingly urgent warnings about artificial intelligence
In September 2026, Dario Amodei publicly called for slowing the development of frontier AI capabilities, and Hinton subsequently voiced support
Some researchers inside OpenAI argue that the AI race can no longer be judged solely by who runs the fastest
Oppenheimer's security clearance was revoked in 1954. In 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy formally ruled that the process that year had serious flaws and was biased and unfair
Hinton says AI could gradually cross the threshold into autonomous action, deceive engineers or deviate from instructions to preserve itself
The Trump administration opposes broadly slowing the pace of U.S. AI development, citing the need to maintain a technological advantage over China
Cheng Tzu-lung's view: 《消失的金鳳娜》—Betting one's life
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Professor Cheng Tzu-lung reviews the film 《消失的金鳳娜》, praising its fast-paced plot and the actors' performances, but criticizing the director's opaque treatment of the antagonist pastor's identity and the unnecessary emotional callback at the end. He recommends strengthening the film's theme of death and changing its title to make it more appealing.
Facts
Author Cheng Tzu-lung is a retired professor at the College of Communication at National Chengchi University. This article was published with permission from 《聚傳媒》.
In the film 《消失的金鳳娜》, Chen Chong plays the lead character, Jin Fengna, and Hsiang Hsiang plays the hospital director, a pastor.
Director Hsieh Ting-han said at a post-screening press conference that the film focuses on the tangled love and hate between a mother and daughter.
The film has a fast-paced plot and crisp editing, and has been described as a very entertaining movie.
The film's English title is 《The Evil Inside》, which means “inner demons” in Chinese.
Opinion: Will dumping the sugarcane stop the public relations crisis?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an faced a public relations crisis after his campaign team left sugarcane behind. Although he has apologized, the controversy has not subsided. The article criticizes his team for having little crisis awareness and says a string of recent controversies shows it has yet to enter campaign mode.
Facts
Chiang Wan-an attended a dinner at Zhongzhuangzai Fude Temple and received several sections of sugarcane as a gift.
Chiang Wan-an's campaign team left the venue after the event.
Certain media outlets directly accused Chiang Wan-an's team of being arrogant and lacking a sense of propriety.
Chiang Wan-an personally issued an apology to the temple.
Shen Po-yang put the gifted sugarcane on display in his office as a “sugarcane treasured sword.”
Opinion: The EU's new cybersecurity law takes effect, putting products' after-sales support to a stringent test
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The EU Cyber Resilience Act will impose strict reporting obligations from September 11, 2026, with substantial fines for violations. Citing the case of 兆勤科技, the article warns manufacturers that they need to respond more quickly to post-sales threat intelligence.
Facts
On June 16, 2026, 兆勤科技 released firmware patches for the GS1900 series switch vulnerability CVE-2026-7273.
Threat research organization GreyNoise published a study on September 21, 2026, saying hackers exploited the vulnerability around August 17 and extracted data from 996 switches across 48 countries.
The reporting obligations under Article 14 of the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) apply from September 11, 2026.
The maximum administrative fine for violating reporting obligations is €15 million or 2.5% of global turnover in the preceding fiscal year, whichever is higher.
Under Article 69, Paragraph 3, products covered by the law that were placed on the EU market before December 11, 2027, are also subject to the reporting obligations.
Opinion: From slogans to political strategy—if “unity” becomes Lai Ching-te's focus for 2028
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article analyzes Lai Ching-te’s strategy for winning reelection in 2028, arguing that “unity” should be turned from a slogan into a political project. It recommends expanding the political coalition through steps such as integrating party factions, restarting the “Ten Talks on Unity” and having the president report to the Legislative Yuan.
Facts
The theme of the 2026 Democratic Progressive Party national congress was “A Good Life in Taiwan, Unite and Strive for the Future.”
In 2025, Lai Ching-te proposed the “Ten Talks on National Unity,” covering the nation, unity, the constitutional system, national defense, diplomacy, cross-strait relations, democracy, peace, prosperity and a balanced Taiwan.
In the 2024 presidential election, Lai Ching-te received 40.05% of the vote.
The Constitutional Court’s ruling said the Legislative Yuan may invite the president, but cannot require the president to take part in an immediate question-and-answer session that amounts to interpellation.
The 2026 Democratic Progressive Party national congress elections for standing committee members and Central Executive Committee members showed clear competition and cooperation among factions, including the New Tide faction, the Lai faction, the Yongyan Association and other groups.
Lai Ching-te publicly called for cross-party cooperation and unity in June and late July 2026.
Commentary: Two F-16Vs arrive in Taitung—Beijing fears not the fighter jets, but that Taiwan is no longer isolated
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Two F-16V fighter jets arrived in Taiwan on Oct. 2, symbolizing that U.S. policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged. The article analyzes how the move undermined Beijing’s “Taiwan is isolated” narrative and criticizes the People’s Liberation Army Daily’s threats as exposing contradictions in its arguments. It argues that the military delivery should be turned into an international strategic asset.
Facts
Two F-16V Block 70 fighter jets arrived at Taitung Airport on Oct. 2.
The arms purchase included 66 fighter jets, with a total value of about $8 billion.
The F-16V Block 70 is equipped with an AN/APG-83 active electronically scanned array radar and an advanced avionics system.
The People’s Liberation Army Daily published “Advancing the Great Cause of National Reunification” the day after the handover and warned that the Chinese military would resolutely crush Taiwan independence.
The author believes Beijing is truly afraid of the political reality represented by the F-16V, not the fighter jet itself.
A different kind of high school student—hoping to rebuild a new postwar order: Excerpt (2) from Jerome Cohen’s memoir Across East and West
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article is excerpted from Jerome Cohen’s memoir Across East and West and looks back on his childhood in New Jersey in the 1930s. It describes his Jewish family background, his opposition to the Nazis during World War II, and the international perspective he developed in high school through activities such as Model United Nations.
Facts
Jerome Cohen grew up in Linden, New Jersey, in the 1930s, when the city had a population of about twenty-five thousand.
Jerome Cohen’s father, Philip Cohen, served as municipal attorney for Linden, New Jersey.
Jerome Cohen’s older brother, Burton, won the New Jersey state public high school speech competition.
In his final year of high school, Jerome Cohen represented his school at New Jersey’s first Model United Nations conference.
Jerome Cohen’s father served as director of the New Jersey chapter of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States to oppose Nazi influence.
Jerome Cohen’s grandfather came to the United States in 1882 from a small village near Krakow.
Jerome Cohen’s mother, Beatrice Flora Kaufman, studied for two years at the New Jersey State Normal School.
Precious Metals: Gold rebounds from a two-month low as investors weigh Fed rate outlook
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Gold rebounded from a two-month low on Thursday, with spot prices rising 0.4% to $4,126.78, reflecting investors’ concerns about the Fed’s rate outlook and U.S. debt levels. WisdomTree strategists said high debt levels favor gold, while Fed officials have flexibility on the pace of rate hikes. Markets put the probability of a December rate hike at 81%.
Facts
Spot gold rose 0.4% on Thursday to $4,126.78 an ounce.
U.S. gold futures settled up 0.4% at $4,157 an ounce.
Fed Governor Waller said there was flexibility in the pace of rate hikes and did not rule out pausing rate hikes in October.
Dutch beverage maker Refresco weighs IPO, with U.S. and Europe potential listing venues; KKR-held company valued at more than $10 billion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Dutch beverage maker Refresco is evaluating an IPO with a target valuation of more than $10 billion. KKR acquired the company for $8 billion in 2022 and has now heard pitches from investment banks. The U.S. and Europe are being considered as listing venues, though plans remain at an early stage.
Facts
Dutch beverage maker Refresco is evaluating an initial public offering (IPO) that could value the company at more than $10 billion.
Private equity firm KKR acquired Refresco for about $8 billion in 2022.
OriginalRefresco與沃爾瑪、Aldi等零售商合作生產自有品牌飲料。
OriginalRefresco與可口可樂、百事公司及魔爪飲料等品牌飲料企業合作。
Refresco had revenue of nearly $7 billion in 2025 and adjusted EBITDA of about $930 million.
What to Buy in Tech Stocks in 2027? Wall Street Bull Dan Ives Names These Five Stocks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Wall Street analyst Dan Ives announced his top tech stock picks for 2027, naming 輝達, 微軟, Palantir, 蘋果 and 特斯拉. His team stressed that the AI buildout is still in its early stages, supply constraints will persist through 2027, and it remains highly optimistic about tech winners.
Facts
Dan Ives named 輝達, 微軟, Palantir, 蘋果 and 特斯拉 as his top tech stock picks for investing in 2027.
Dan Ives’s team believes the AI revolution at this stage depends on supply rather than demand.
Alphabet and 蘋果 were both assigned price targets of $400 per share.
Meta was assigned a price target of $900 per share.
CrowdStrike was rated “Outperform,” with a price target of $335.
〈U.S. Stocks After the Bell〉OpenAI Revenue Reportedly Falls Short of Expectations; AI Stocks Plunge, Philadelphia Semiconductor Index and 台積電 ADR Tumble More Than 3%
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The Financial Times reported that OpenAI’s annualized revenue at the end of September was about $50 billion, below the previously rumored $70 billion, triggering a broad sell-off in AI stocks. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index fell 3.39%, 台積電 ADR dropped more than 3%, and the Nasdaq closed down 1.25%, while the Dow eked out a gain.
Facts
OpenAI’s annualized revenue at the end of September was about $50 billion, below the roughly $70 billion reported earlier.
台積電 ADR fell 3.01%.
Brent crude rose 4.07% to $104.28 a barrel, while West Texas crude gained 3.64% to settle at $91.49 a barrel.
The U.S. 30-year Treasury yield fell from about 5.73% to about 5.60%, while the 10-year yield retreated from about 5.35% to about 5.23%.
CME FedWatch showed the probability of a rate hike in December had risen to 69.2%.
格芯 and 台積電 reached a multiyear manufacturing agreement worth $2 billion, with mass production of silicon interposers expected to begin in the first half of 2028.
Companies mentioned：OpenAI、甲骨文、輝達、台積電、CoreWeave、Miller Tabak、雪佛龍、聯準會、聖路易聯準銀行、Meta、蘋果、Alphabet、微軟、亞馬遜、AMD、博通、應用材料、高通、美光、威騰電子、SanDisk、希捷、SK海力士、日月光、聯電、中華電信、Skydance、派拉蒙、華納兄弟探索集團、天舞集團、格芯、星巴克、Chipotle、Anthropic、Baird、D.A. Davidson、富國銀行、瑞銀、U.S. Bank Wealth Management、紐約證交所
〈New York Currency Market〉Dollar Weakens as European Bond Yields Retreat From Highs
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The dollar weakened on Thursday as the euro zone’s bond yield rally paused. Federal Reserve Governor Waller signaled flexibility in the pace of rate hikes. Markets saw a low probability of a hike this month but were betting on one in December. The euro fell to a five-month low amid political crises in France and Spain and inflation concerns.
Facts
The U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) fell 0.08% to 102.17 late in New York trading.
France’s 10-year government bond yield rose 2.7 basis points to 4.8873%.
Markets put the probability of the Federal Reserve raising rates by at least 25 basis points this month at 17.2%.
Investors put the odds of a rate hike at the Federal Reserve’s December meeting at 81.2%.
U.S. initial jobless claims fell by 2,000 to 197,000 last week.
The euro rose 0.08% to $1.1204.
Unions announced plans to launch a nationwide general strike on November 11 to protest housing issues.
Trump Launches AI Science Research Plan; Tech Giants Pledge $2.4 Billion, With 輝達 Contributing the Most
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Trump will announce at a Washington summit that Silicon Valley tech giants have pledged $2.4 billion to support the Genesis mission, which uses AI to advance scientific research and support more than 15 federal agencies.
Facts
U.S. President Trump will announce that Silicon Valley tech giants have pledged $2.4 billion to support scientific research at a summit in Washington on Thursday (the 8th).
The donations will provide AI tools and computing credits to support the government’s Genesis mission, which aims to use AI to advance research and support more than 15 federal agencies.
Announced donations include $1 billion from 輝達 (NVDA-US), $500 million from AMD (AMD-US), $200 million from OpenAI, and $150 million each from Anthropic and Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet (GOOGL-US).
White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director Michael Kratsios said the newly announced measures “will inject billions of dollars into the entire scientific enterprise, capitalizing on the new scientific opportunities emerging today.”
The government will invest more than $100 million in education programs for U.S. researchers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Vice President JD Vance and Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling announced the suspension of companies including 微軟 from a visa program over alleged fraud.
The companies accused include 微軟 (MSFT-US), Adobe (ADBE-US), Cognizant (CTSH-US), Infosys (INFY-US), Tata, Wipro (WIT-US), HCL Technologies and 凱捷（Capgemini）。
Trump will award the National Medal of Science to Elon Musk, 輝達 CEO Jensen Huang, Alphabet’s Sergey Brin and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD-US) CEO Lisa Su, and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation to Michael Dell of Dell Technologies (DELL-US).
〈Energy After the Bell〉IEA Acts! Accelerates Release of 100 Million Barrels; Oil Prices Cool Temporarily, Brent Falls Below $101
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The IEA agreed to accelerate the oil stock release plan announced in March 2026, allowing about 100 million barrels to enter the market, with priority given to diesel. Supply concerns were temporarily eased, and Brent crude fell below $101.
Facts
The IEA agreed to accelerate the oil stock release plan announced in March 2026, allowing about 100 million barrels to enter the market.
Brent crude futures settled down 38 cents, or 0.38%, at $100.20 a barrel on the 8th.
U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures fell $1.16, or 1.3%, to settle at $88.28 a barrel.
The IEA announced a collective release of 400 million barrels in March, and about 100 million barrels have yet to enter the market.
G7 countries agreed last Friday to release 100 million barrels of crude oil and diesel through the IEA.
France will release 10 million barrels of diesel from its strategic reserves.
IEA member governments still hold about 1.1 billion barrels of public strategic oil reserves, including more than 200 million barrels of diesel.
Crude oil production in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico was about 2.05 million barrels per day in September, accounting for about 15% of total U.S. crude output.
Earth Science Associates’ model estimates that about 11.2 million barrels of crude production could be affected during the storm.
H-1B to Green Card Applications Blocked! U.S. Suspends New Green Card Labor Certification Applications From Companies Including 微軟 and Adobe
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The U.S. Department of Labor suspended new PERM applications from companies including 微軟 and Adobe, with Vance accusing them of replacing American workers with H-1B visa holders. 微軟 argued that most applications were extensions for existing employees, while the Trump administration praised tech leaders even as it pressured them to prioritize American workers.
Facts
The U.S. Department of Labor announced it was suspending new permanent labor certification (PERM) applications from companies including 微軟 and Adobe.
Vice President Vance accused 微軟 of replacing workers laid off after the company cut about 6,000 jobs in 2025 with foreign workers holding H-1B visas.
微軟 said 80% of the about 6,000 H-1B visa applications it submitted in the last fiscal year were to extend or change the status of existing employees.
Since 2009, the companies whose applications have been suspended had collectively applied to hire nearly 3 million foreign workers.
According to Levels.fyi data for 2026, 亞馬遜 ranked first with 35,426 H-1B applications, while 微軟 ranked 4th.
【Yuan Zhifeng Column】Hang Seng TECH Index Hits More Than 2-Year Low
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Hong Kong stocks fell sharply on Thursday, with the Hang Seng Index and Hang Seng TECH Index hitting 3-month and 2-year lows, respectively, as turnover surged. Southbound funds continued to post net purchases, while oil and mainland property stocks rose against the market and tech and pharmaceutical stocks led losses. 騰訊 plans to issue offshore bonds, and 劍橋科技 completed a share placement to raise funds.
Facts
The Hang Seng Index closed at 23,786 points on Thursday, down 344 points, or 1.4%, hitting a 3-month low.
The Hang Seng TECH Index fell 2.9% to close at 4,073 points, a more than 2-year low.
Hong Kong stock turnover rose 119% from the previous day to HK$207.3 billion.
Southbound Stock Connect funds recorded net purchases of about HK$6.5 billion.
Minimax (100) fell more than 13%, the biggest decline among constituent stocks.
騰訊 (700) is considering issuing up to $5 billion in offshore bonds.
劍橋科技 (6166) is placing new H shares and issuing convertible bonds, raising a total of more than 6.57 billion yuan.
Shipping risks mount as more oil tankers reportedly hit mines and explode in the Strait of Hormuz
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Trump said the United States would not attack Iran before the midterm elections, and oil prices fell but remained higher amid the Middle East conflict and hurricane-related disruptions. Tanker attacks and mine strikes have been reported repeatedly in the Strait of Hormuz, while Yemen and Iran continue to display military threats, keeping regional security risks high.
Facts
U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States would not attack Iran before the Nov. 3 midterm elections.
Brent crude futures rose 4.1% to close at $104.28 a barrel on Thursday.
At least 12 attacks on energy transport vessels occurred around the Strait of Hormuz between Sept. 28 and Oct. 5.
The U.S. Treasury Department added 27 companies, 6 individuals and 22 vessels to a new round of sanctions against Iran.
Yemen's Houthi movement claimed it had fired ballistic missiles at King Khalid International Airport in the Saudi capital, Riyadh.
Acers, a chemical tanker flying the flag of Antigua and Barbuda, was struck by multiple projectiles in the Persian Gulf.
West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose 3.6% to $91.49 a barrel on Thursday.
Netherlands representative office hosts Double Ten National Day reception as officials hope to deepen cooperation with Taiwan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's representative office in the Netherlands hosted a Double Ten National Day reception in The Hague, attended by more than 250 Dutch political and business figures. Representative to the Netherlands Tian Chung-kuang highlighted Taiwan's strengths in democracy, the rule of law and the semiconductor industry, including cooperation between 台積電 and ASML. He also thanked the Netherlands for supporting Taiwan's participation in the WHA and for sending naval vessels through the Taiwan Strait. Dutch officials attending included The Hague Mayor Jan van Zanen, Flevoland Deputy Governor Fokke? and Haarlemmermeer Mayor Marianne Schuurmans, all of whom expressed hopes of deepening cooperation in technology, governance and trade and economic affairs.
Chinese maritime militia vessels reportedly spotted off Taiwan's east coast; U.S. State Department criticizes Beijing for destabilizing region
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chinese maritime militia vessels have reportedly appeared for the first time in waters off eastern Taiwan. The U.S. State Department criticized Beijing for destabilizing the region and urged it to stop applying pressure, while Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration and Ministry of National Defense said they were maintaining surveillance and responding appropriately.
Musk enters mobile communications market, sending shares of U.S. telecom trio tumbling after hours
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Musk's SpaceX announced it would acquire low-band wireless spectrum across the United States to develop its Starlink Mobile service. Shares of the major U.S. telecom carriers T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T plunged in after-hours trading following the announcement.
Facts
T-Mobile shares fell as much as 7.6%
Verizon plunged 7%
AT&T fell 7.75%
A plan to launch up to 15,000 new satellites
Communications capacity will be more than 100 times that of the current satellite constellation
U.S., Ukrainian and European officials to meet in Miami to discuss new ideas for ending Russia-Ukraine war
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. President Donald Trump's envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff will meet Ukrainian and European officials in Miami to discuss new ideas for ending the Russia-Ukraine war and a plan for unification.
Taiwan representative office in Türkiye hosts National Day gala; Huang Chih-yang hopes Taiwan and Türkiye will deepen technology cooperation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan's representative office in Türkiye hosted a National Day gala. Representative Huang Chih-yang expressed hopes of deepening technology cooperation between Taiwan and Türkiye and building a bridge linking East Asia and the Mediterranean.
A kindergarten and medical facilities in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, were damaged by debris from intercepted missiles. Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for an attack on Riyadh airport, where a plane was reportedly severely damaged.
Facts
A total of 3 planes were affected
Two missiles fired toward Riyadh were intercepted
The Houthi movement claimed today to have carried out 3 attacks on the airport
France's education crisis deepens as more than 70,000 demonstrate; government rushes to add 3,000 substitute teachers
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
France is facing an education crisis, with more than 70,000 people taking to the streets to protest teacher shortages, overloaded schedules and excessive use of force by police. The government pledged to deploy 3,000 substitute teachers and hire hundreds of new teachers to address the crisis.
Facts
More than 70,000 people
3,000 substitute teachers
71,500 people took part in the protests
More than 500 people were detained by police
About 24,500 people took to the streets
Aged 15 to 18
Submit a plan to address the crisis by the end of October
18 internal investigations
Hundreds
114 schools designated as requiring special support
Most U.S. stocks close lower as OpenAI's annualized revenue falls short of investor expectations, weighing on AI shares
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Major U.S. stock indexes mostly fell, with the Nasdaq Composite dropping more than 1% at the close and the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index plunging more than 3%. The Financial Times reported that OpenAI's annualized revenue was about $50 billion as of the end of September, below earlier media reports of about $70 billion—a shortfall of about $20 billion that weighed on AI stocks.
Facts
OpenAI's annualized revenue was about $50 billion
OpenAI's annualized revenue was about $70 billion
A shortfall of about $20 billion
The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 51.77 points, or 0.10%, to close at 51,231.64 today
The S&P 500 fell 36.41 points, or 0.47%, to close at 7,765.36
The Nasdaq Composite dropped 345.35 points, or 1.25%, to close at 27,193.34
The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index plunged 442.43 points, or 3.39%, to close at 12,623.72
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