Call for Members of the “Physical AI Consortium for the Construction Sector” to Shape the Future of Construction Sites! — Promoting Transformation of Construction Production Processes and Real-World Implementation Through AI × Robotics and Industry-Academia-Government Collaboration
株式会社小松製作所 has notified the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of a recall of the WA270-8 and 4 other models of wheel loaders due to a parking brake defect. A total of 2404 vehicles are affected.
株式会社小松製作所 has notified the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of a recall due to the risk of exhaust gas leakage caused by a defect in the exhaust pipe assembly of forklifts. A total of 1,757 vehicles are affected. The problem will be remedied by applying additional sealant and retightening the assembly.
Certification Granted for the Track Transportation Enhancement Implementation Plan Submitted by 宇都宮市, 芳賀町 and 宇都宮ライトレール株式会社
Published ・ Source Japan | 国土交通省
The Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has certified the track transportation enhancement implementation plan submitted by 宇都宮市, 芳賀町 and 宇都宮ライトレール株式会社. The development cost is 69.8 billion yen, and operations are scheduled to begin in March of Reiwa 18.
Discussing the Fundamental Direction of Water Supply and Sewerage Policy — Holding the 12th Meeting to Examine the Fundamental Framework of Water Supply and Sewerage Policy
The 17th National Shared Bicycle Conference to Be Held! — In-Person Meeting in Kanazawa to Share Experiences and Know-How on Shared Bicycle Initiatives
Published ・ Source Japan | 国土交通省
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism will hold the 17th National Shared Bicycle Conference in Kanazawa on November 10, Reiwa 8, to share experience and know-how on shared bicycles. Participation is free, but in-person attendance is limited to approximately 150 people on a first-come, first-served basis. Presenters for the poster session are also being sought.
Data Analysis Competition Using Geospatial Information to Be Held Again This Fiscal Year — Expanding the Potential Uses of National Land Numerical Information Through the Theme of Predicting Urban Vibrancy
Applications Open for Certification of Organizations Working to Build Regional Living Areas! — Government to Certify “Private-Sector Regional Management Organizations”
How many kilometers can a car travel before its oil needs changing? Expert reveals the “right time to change it”; car owners can tell at a glance and save money and time
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Japanese media outlet FINANCIAL FIELD, citing JAF data, reported that oil-change intervals vary depending on the vehicle and how it is used, rather than being based on a fixed mileage. For a standard gasoline car, the guideline is 15,000 kilometers or 1 year, with earlier changes needed under severe conditions.
Facts
For a standard gasoline car under normal driving conditions, the recommended oil-change interval is 15,000 kilometers or 1 year.
For a light vehicle, the recommended oil-change interval is 10,000 kilometers or 6 months.
For a turbocharged light vehicle, the recommended oil-change interval is 5000 kilometers or 6 months.
For a turbocharged light vehicle under severe driving conditions, the recommended oil-change interval is shortened to 2500 kilometers or 3 months.
At 30,000 kilometers of driving per year, changing the oil every 3000 kilometers means changing it 10 times.
At 30,000 kilometers of driving per year, changing the oil every 5000 kilometers means changing it 6 times.
The Nobel Peace Prize is about to be announced! The pope and the International Space Station are among the potential candidates; could Trump really win?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 2026 Nobel Peace Prize will be announced on the 9th. This year, 287 candidates have been nominated. Experts predict the winner could be the International Space Station, a Sudanese humanitarian aid organization, an international judicial body or one of several political figures, reflecting a global situation marked by both conflict and cooperation.
Facts
The 2026 Nobel Peace Prize will be announced on the 9th, with 287 candidates nominated this year.
耶爾洛, director of 奧斯陸和平研究中心, considers the International Space Station a rare symbol of global cooperation.
Nearly 1/3 of Sudan’s population has been displaced since armed conflict broke out, and a civilian volunteer group called the “Emergency Response Rooms” has been providing assistance.
The International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to prevent genocide in the Gaza Strip and called on Russia to stop its military actions in Ukraine.
Yulia Navalnaya, widow of the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, is carrying on his political ideals in challenging Putin’s regime.
Pope Leo XIV said stability and peace can be achieved only through rational, sincere and responsible dialogue.
Hsu Hsin-ying canvasses at Zhudong Market, drawing enthusiastic crowds; County Magistrate Yang Wen-ke joins her to show full support
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Kuomintang Hsinchu County mayoral candidate Hsu Hsin-ying canvassed at Zhudong Market with 50 days left before the election, accompanied by County Magistrate Yang Wen-ke. The lively scene showed strong grassroots support.
Facts
With 50 days left before the election, Hsu Hsin-ying canvassed through Zhudong Market.
Hsinchu County Magistrate Yang Wen-ke personally accompanied Hsu Hsin-ying as she canvassed for votes.
In 2012, Hsu Hsin-ying secured nearly NT$22 million in renovation subsidies to improve Zhudong Market.
Market vendors presented garlic symbolizing “election victory” and daikon radish symbolizing good fortune.
Hsu Hsin-ying thanked local residents for their support and praised Zhudong Township mayoral candidate Fan Kuo-wei for his work in the community.
Good news for older people with disabilities: Chang Chia-chun announces that people with disabilities can receive senior citizens’ card benefits at age 60
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Yunlin County magistrate candidate Chang Chia-chun announced that people with disabilities can receive senior citizens’ card benefits at age 60, aiming to expand eligibility, make benefits more flexible and ease the burden on disadvantaged groups.
Facts
Yunlin County mayoral candidate Chang Chia-chun announced an expansion of senior welfare policies at an event marking Yunlin International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Chang Chia-chun proposed allowing people with disabilities to receive senior welfare card benefits starting at age 60.
Eligible people with disabilities must be registered residents of the county and meet the relevant conditions.
Chang Chia-chun had previously proposed allowing senior welfare card points to be used flexibly at community pharmacies and farmers’ associations.
Yunlin County’s current senior welfare card rules allow free bus rides.
Chang Chia-chun plans to review the senior welfare card and disability assistance card systems, focusing on expanding care, flexible use and inclusiveness.
Xiao Zhan and Li Xian lose out! The top 10 male actors recognized for the strongest dialogue delivery in period dramas: the winner brings distinct charm to both generals and young noblemen, with a deep, resonant voice that draws viewers right in
All period dramas starring Bai Jingting and Bai Yu in the past 10 years used their original voices, giving both actors a usage rate of 100%.
Yang Yang starred in 5 period dramas in the past 10 years, 4 of which used his original voice. Only Who Rules the World used dubbing, giving him an original-voice rate of 80%.
Li Xian starred mainly in 3 period dramas in the past 10 years: Sword Dynasty, Flourished Peony and In the Name of the Blossom. He ranked 7th.
How did soldiers in ancient times meet their physical needs during years of war? A “1 ruthless measure” persisted for a millennium until Zhu Yuanzhang ordered it abolished
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The article reviews the history of how ancient armies addressed soldiers’ physical needs, saying the system began with King Goujian of Yue’s “soldier-wife system” during the Spring and Autumn period, shifted to managing the labor of prisoners of war during the Han dynasty, and was ultimately abolished by Ming founding emperor Zhu Yuanzhang on the grounds that it violated moral norms.
Facts
During the Spring and Autumn period, King Goujian of Yue established the “soldier-wife system,” sending widowed women from the country to military camps to soothe soldiers and strengthen their fighting spirit.
Emperor Wu of Han incorporated captured Xiongnu women into the military system, assigning them duties that expanded to include laundry, cooking, mending and organizing supplies.
Ming founding emperor Zhu Yuanzhang considered the “soldier-wife system” immoral and ordered the complete abolition of this long-standing military arrangement.
Firing squad execution to be carried out for the first time in half a century! Trump approves execution of Fort Hood shooter Hasan and plans to “livestream” it
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Trump approved the execution by firing squad of Hasan, the Fort Hood shooter, and its livestream. His defense lawyer called it political theater and plans to appeal.
Facts
U.S. President Trump formally signed an approval order directing the U.S. military to execute Hasan, specifying that he must be executed by firing squad.
Hasan’s execution by firing squad is to be “livestreamed” and is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Dec. 3 at Fort Hood military base in Texas.
This would be the first U.S. military execution in 55 years, since 1961, and the first execution by firing squad since 1945.
Defense Secretary Hegseth has long pushed hard for Hasan’s execution, pledging to ensure that victims and survivors receive the justice they deserve without delay.
During the 2009 attack at the base, Hasan shouted “Allahu Akbar” and said he had turned against the military because he opposed the Pentagon’s military operations in the Middle East.
The U.S. military initially planned to carry out Hasan’s execution by gas or injection at the federal prison in Terre Haute, Indiana, but changed course because of a case in Tennessee.
Under an old regulation dating from 1959, the firing squad consists of 8 soldiers who shoot simultaneously from 15 paces away; 1 to 3 of their weapons are loaded with blanks.
Who will win the 2026 Taipei mayoral election? A fortune-teller predicts “this 1 candidate” has the edge, and says another “is not destined to be president”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A fortune-teller made predictions about the 2026 Taipei mayoral election, saying a particular candidate has the edge and naming another as not destined to become president.
Facts
The article falls within the realm of folk beliefs.
The article states that folk beliefs do not represent the publishing outlet’s position.
She was the woman Empress Dowager Cixi feared most! Why couldn’t Consort Zhen even be saved by Emperor Guangxu? Historians reveal that surviving 11 years was already a miracle
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
On the eve of the Eight-Nation Alliance’s invasion of Beijing in 1900, Empress Dowager Cixi ordered Consort Zhen, Emperor Guangxu’s favorite, thrown into a well and killed. Consort Zhen had long been imprisoned because of her involvement in taboos such as selling official posts and photography, as well as her connection to the Hundred Days’ Reform. She was ultimately killed before the imperial family fled west in haste.
Facts
Consort Zhen was born in the 2nd year of the Guangxu era. She was a member of the Tatara clan of the Manchu Bordered Red Banner. Her grandfather, Yutai, served as governor-general of Huguang and minister of war.
Consort Zhen’s purchase of photography equipment and her arrangement for eunuchs to run a photo studio led to the execution of the eunuchs involved and the studio’s closure.
Consort Zhen was accused of using palace information and the emperor’s favor to broker the sale of official posts, including the Shanghai circuit intendant and Sichuan salt administration commissioner.
After the Hundred Days’ Reform failed, Consort Zhen was stripped of her clothes, beaten with a court staff and imprisoned at the Northern Three Residences near Jingqi Pavilion, where the palace gates remained locked for a long time.
On the eve of the Eight-Nation Alliance’s invasion of Beijing in 1900, Cixi ordered eunuch Cui Yugui and others to throw Consort Zhen into a well near the Palace of Tranquil Longevity.
Coast Guard sends ships to Palau on goodwill voyages for 2 consecutive years to celebrate Double Ten National Day! Chiayi vessel holds joint flag-raising ceremony with Palau
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Coast Guard’s “Chiayi” vessel traveled to Palau to take part in a joint flag-raising ceremony for Double Ten National Day, attended by Taiwan’s ambassador to Palau and the Coast Guard’s deputy director-general. The event marks an important chapter in Taiwan-Palau coast guard diplomacy and demonstrates their steadfast friendship.
Facts
The Coast Guard’s “Chiayi” vessel and Palau held a joint flag-raising ceremony on the 9th to welcome the Republic of China’s Double Ten National Day.
The goodwill voyage mission comprised a flotilla made up of the “Chiayi” and “Penghu” vessels.
Taiwan and Palau have continued to deepen cooperation since signing a coast guard cooperation agreement in 2019.
In 2025, the “Hualien” and “Taipei” vessels were dispatched for the first time to complete a long-distance training, internship and goodwill mission.
During the visit to Palau, the vessels will conduct a joint patrol with Palauan law enforcement agencies.
A plane often carries hundreds of passengers, and if many mobile devices search for signals in the air at the same time, they generate a large amount of unnecessary electromagnetic signals.
Could Shen Boyang beat Chiang Wan-an by 70,000 votes? He calculates “3 major trends” from a TVBS poll and exclaims: Has Taipei really shifted?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The latest TVBS poll shows a tight Taipei mayoral race, with Chiang Wan-an leading Shen Boyang by 8%. Former minister without portfolio Chang Ching-sen analyzed three major trends: Chiang Wan-an losing votes, Huang Shan-shan supporters switching sides, and the pan-Green camp uniting. His calculations suggest Shen Boyang could win by 70,000 votes, potentially shifting the race in Taipei.
Facts
Chang Ching-sen said 14% of Chiang Wan-an’s original voters switched their support to Shen Boyang.
Of Huang Shan-shan’s former supporters, 53% switched to support Shen Boyang.
Among respondents who voted for Chen Shih-chung in 2022, 93% support Shen Boyang.
Chang Ching-sen’s static calculations suggest Shen Boyang could beat Chiang Wan-an by about 70,000 votes.
Thailand’s queen successfully pilots a “Gripen” fighter jet! Striking solo-flight footage released as the king accompanies her for the preflight inspection
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
On the 8th, Thailand’s King Rama X visited Royal Thai Air Force Wing 7 in Surat Thani province to witness Queen Suthida’s historic first solo flight in a Saab Gripen fighter jet. Drawing on more than 1100 hours of flight experience, the queen completed her training in strict accordance with procedures. The king later presented her with the highest honor badge in recognition.
Facts
On the 8th, Thailand’s King Rama X visited Royal Thai Air Force Wing 7 in Surat Thani province to witness Queen Suthida fly a Gripen fighter jet solo.
Queen Suthida has logged a total of 1188.48 flight hours.
The king presented the “Gripen Gold Honor Badge” to the queen.
Queen Suthida once piloted a private jet alongside the Thai king, landing at Paro International Airport in Bhutan.
Queen Suthida began her aviation career in May 1990, first piloting a T-41D primary trainer.
How is inheritance tax calculated? “She was stunned to receive a tax bill” despite not inheriting a house; stock market commentator reveals biggest source of financial conflict among siblings
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Stock market commentator A-Xun explains how inheritance tax is calculated and the roots of financial conflicts among siblings. The Legislative Yuan amended the Estate and Gift Tax Act to include gifts made within 2 years before death as deemed estate assets. A survey found that 68% of disputes between siblings stem from issues involving their parents, underscoring the importance of fair communication.
Facts
The Legislative Yuan passed amendments to some provisions of the Estate and Gift Tax Act in a third reading in late August, stipulating that assets gifted to certain relatives within 2 years before the decedent's death are deemed part of the estate.
Inheritance tax is calculated by first totaling the estate, then subtracting the tax exemption and deductions to determine the tax due on the entire inheritance case.
If there is no executor of the will and the heirs have not renounced the inheritance, the heirs are generally liable for the inheritance tax.
A US survey found that 56% of conflicts between siblings stem from differences in attitudes toward money or spending habits.
A US survey found that 46% of conflicts between siblings stem from income disparities.
A US survey found that 33% of conflicts between siblings stem from borrowing or repaying money.
US sanctions 17 more Iranian shadow fleet vessels, targeting oil revenue to hit Tehran's finances
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
美國財政部 announced sanctions on 17 vessels linked to Iran's shadow fleet on the 8th, aiming to cut off funding from its oil revenues. The move is part of “Operation Economic Outcast,” intended to limit Iran's ability to profit and hit Tehran's finances.
Facts
美國財政部 announced on the 8th sanctions against another 17 vessels suspected of being linked to Iran's “shadow fleet.”
The sanctions are part of the US pressure campaign against Iran known as “Operation Economic Outcast.”
The sanctioned vessel TINA 5 transported more than 1.5 million barrels of Iranian crude oil in August this year.
Iran has not loaded any crude oil for export since Aug. 25, 2025.
The US average gasoline price was $4.36 per gallon on Thursday.
Is the risk of conflict in the Taiwan Strait overestimated? US assistant secretary for Asia-Pacific affairs says Xi Jinping is “rational” and would not use force if it entailed major costs
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Michael DeSombre, the US assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, told CNBC that investors may be overestimating the risk of conflict in the Taiwan Strait. He stressed the importance of maintaining credible deterrence and ensuring Beijing understands the costs of using force.
Facts
Michael DeSombre, the US assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, believes investors are overestimating the risk of conflict breaking out in the Taiwan Strait.
DeSombre said Taiwan was one of the areas where market pricing was most off the mark.
The US government has repeatedly said that mainland China has asked the People's Liberation Army to be ready to take military action against Taiwan before 2027.
DeSombre believes Xi Jinping would not use force if he recognized that it would entail major costs.
Trump has yet to approve a new arms sale worth $14 billion.
French finance minister says bond markets are functioning normally, need no “hand of God” intervention
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
French Finance Minister Roland Lescure publicly rejected claims of market dysfunction after the France-Germany government bond spread widened to a record, saying no outside intervention was needed. He said the volatility stemmed from adjustments in the global economy and pledged that the government would continue communicating to stabilize market confidence.
Facts
French Finance Minister Roland Lescure made the remarks during a fireside chat at the London School of Economics on Thursday (the 8th).
The spread between French and German 10-year government bonds briefly widened to around 159 basis points intraday on Oct. 2.
The spread reached its highest level since the eurozone debt crisis in 2012.
Lescure said France did not need any external intervention by a “hand of God.”
At the close, the spread between French and German 10-year government bonds widened to around 140.33 basis points.
The US 10-year Treasury yield closed at 5.227%.
The French 10-year government bond yield rose 2.8 basis points to 4.897%.
Just completed a $30 billion investment in OpenAI! Masayoshi Son reportedly seeks $100 billion from the Middle East to launch an AI fund to acquire companies
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son plans to raise $100 billion from investors in the Gulf region to establish an AI fund. He has completed a $30 billion investment in OpenAI, giving him a 13% stake.
Facts
軟銀集團 CEO Masayoshi Son is seeking to raise as much as $100 billion from investors in the Gulf region to fund a new wave of artificial intelligence (AI) investment.
SoftBank plans to use the funds to establish a fund that will acquire other companies and improve their operations through AI and other advanced technologies.
SoftBank has completed its $30 billion investment in OpenAI, fulfilling its commitment to participate in the ChatGPT developer's latest funding round.
SoftBank completed an $11.1 billion non-investment-grade bond offering at the end of September to fund its investment in OpenAI.
SoftBank's total investment in OpenAI has now reached $64.6 billion, giving it a 13% stake.
Are iPhone 18 Pro models failing to sell? Nikkei: 蘋果 cuts component orders by 15% to 20% in October
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
《日經新聞》 reported that 蘋果 cut component orders for the iPhone 18 Pro series by 15-20% amid rising memory costs and pressure on sales. Its staggered launch strategy has slowed supply-chain shipments in the short term, while demand in the US and Chinese markets has diverged.
Facts
蘋果 has formally notified its supply chain that it is reducing component production for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
In October this year, 蘋果 cut orders for the two high-end models by 15% to 20% from its original plan.
First-week sales of the iPhone 18 Pro in China rose 12% year over year.
Initial demand for the iPhone 18 Pro in the US was down by a low-single-digit percentage compared with the same period last year.
蘋果 is adopting a staggered launch strategy this year, with the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 expected to debut next spring.
US budget deficit surges to nearly $2 trillion! Set to exceed 6% of GDP, with interest expenses topping $1.1 trillion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
US CBO data show the budget deficit surged to $1.993 trillion in fiscal 2026, the highest since 2021, with the deficit-to-GDP ratio set to exceed 6%. Soaring interest expenses and tax cuts are key drivers of the worsening fiscal outlook. Public debt is nearing the size of GDP, while the two parties remain deeply divided over deficit-reduction plans.
Facts
The US federal budget deficit reached $1.993 trillion in fiscal 2026, up 12% from the previous year.
US net interest expenses exceeded $1.1 trillion in fiscal 2026, up 11% year over year.
The US deficit is projected to exceed 6% of gross domestic product (GDP) in fiscal 2026.
US corporate income tax revenue fell by $70 billion in fiscal 2026, a decline of 16%.
Federal debt held by the public has exceeded 100% of GDP.
Federal government spending reached $7.4 trillion in fiscal 2026, up 6% year over year.
10-year Treasury yield briefly rises to a 24-year high
Treasury yields are shockingly high; new adviser to US Treasury secretary says they could soon retreat
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
David Zervos, an adviser to the US Treasury secretary, said Treasury yields have hit a 24-year high but that the move is a short-term phenomenon driven by AI investment and energy shocks, and he expects yields to retreat. The probability of a Federal Reserve rate hike in December is above 82%, and the US is performing well on the international stage.
Facts
David Zervos, an adviser to US Treasury Secretary Bessent, said US Treasury yields could gradually cool in the future.
US 10-year and 30-year Treasury yields have climbed to 24-year highs in recent days.
Federal funds futures traders expect the probability of the Federal Reserve raising borrowing costs again at its December meeting to be above 82%.
Brent crude prices have risen around 38% from the start of the conflict through Wednesday.
Zervos believes some of the pressure on global real interest rates comes from companies increasing AI-related spending.
Australian AI data center operator Firmus has withdrawn its Australian IPO plan amid market volatility, and plans to pivot to a Nasdaq listing in the United States next year while seeking private-market funding.
Facts
Firmus announced Friday (the 9th) that it was withdrawing its planned large-scale IPO in Australia, citing market volatility and an unfavorable economic climate.
Firmus had planned to raise $5 billion through its IPO, pricing shares at 11 Australian dollars each.
Firmus reported revenue of $51 million in fiscal 2026.
After withdrawing its IPO, Firmus will turn to private-market fundraising and assess other alternatives in public and private markets.
Companies mentioned：Firmus、輝達、Meta、OpenAI、DayOne Data Centers
U.S. and Russia reportedly discuss bringing U.S. investment into Nord Stream pipelines! Germany opposes restart, fears Russia will profit from energy
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Senior U.S. and Russian officials have discussed bringing in U.S. investment to restart the Nord Stream pipelines, seeking to foster peace through commercial cooperation. But sanctions, German opposition and damage to the facilities make a deal extremely difficult, while Europe fears Russia could profit.
Facts
U.S. envoy Jared Kushner and Dmitryev, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, have discussed bringing in U.S. investors to participate in the Nord Stream gas pipeline.
White House officials said there had been no recent discussions about the Nord Stream pipeline, and that any deal would need to be negotiated between Russia and 美國國際開發金融公司.
The Nord Stream pipeline operator is 51% owned by 俄羅斯天然氣工業公司, with another 31% held by 2 German companies.
Germany's governing coalition opposes restarting the Nord Stream pipeline, but the Alternative for Germany party (AfD) supports resuming Russian gas imports.
Kushner and Dmitryev have also reportedly discussed acquiring assets owned by 盧克石油, a Russian energy company.
Wall Street bulls see strong demand for Anthropic and OpenAI IPOs; bad news fails to dampen investor enthusiasm
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Yahoo Finance reported that Anthropic and OpenAI are accelerating preparations for IPOs, with target valuations of $2 trillion and $1.4 trillion, respectively. Wall Street bull Dan Ives is optimistic about investor buying appetite.
Facts
Anthropic is targeting a valuation as high as $2 trillion.
OpenAI is seeking a new funding round at a target valuation of $1.4 trillion.
Anthropic and OpenAI are accelerating preparations for initial public offerings (IPOs).
Dan Ives said market appetite would be enormous.
Investors may have overestimated OpenAI's annualized revenue by $20 billion.
News of lowered revenue forecasts sent AI stocks broadly lower.
AI productivity gains have yet to appear—“So what?” Barron's: Massive capital spending is propping up the U.S. economy, with stocks benefiting first
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
《巴隆周刊》 reported that although AI productivity gains have yet to fully materialize, massive capital spending has already supported the U.S. economy and stock market. In Q3 2025, AI-related investment accounted for 39% of GDP growth, but total factor productivity remained stagnant and prices were also affected.
Facts
In the third quarter of 2025, AI-related categories including information processing equipment, software, research and development, and data centers together accounted for 39% of U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) growth.
Original美國國防部提議在2027財政年度為新成立的「AI軍火庫」計畫編列近300億美元。
According to Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, electricity prices rose 3.8% year over year in August.
Equipment-use-adjusted total factor productivity has shown no sign of accelerating and is currently slightly below zero.
標普500指數 and 那斯達克綜合指數 have each set more than 20 record highs since the start of 2026.
James Knightley, chief international economist at 荷蘭國際集團, estimates that AI-related investment will contribute about one-third of U.S. economic growth in 2026.
U.S. output per hour is growing at nearly 2.5%, well above the average since 2005.
Online Seminar: “Initiatives by Regional Financial Institutions to Achieve Nature Positive”
Published ・ Source Japan | 環境省
The Ministry of the Environment will hold an online seminar on November 9 to promote analysis and disclosure of nature-related information in line with the TNFD recommendations by regional financial institutions, and to advance nature-positive outcomes. みずほ総合研究所 will handle registration.
Holding of a training session for experts on measures against the red-necked longhorn beetle in Reiwa 8
Published ・ Source Japan | 環境省
環境省 will hold the “Reiwa 8 Training Session for Experts on Measures Against the Red-Necked Longhorn Beetle” to develop specialists who can advise local governments and residents, as part of efforts to strengthen measures against the invasive alien species.
Facts
Original令和８年度
Friday, September 11 of the same year
Friday, November 6, Reiwa 8
Friday, November 13, Reiwa 8
Approximately 6 hours are planned
Participation is free
Friday, October 23, Reiwa 8
Number of participants sought for each session: 10
Holding of a symposium on preventing fires caused by lithium-ion batteries
Published ・ Source Japan | 環境省
On November 2, 環境省 will hold the “Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Prevention Symposium 2026” to discuss preventing fire accidents during waste treatment and ways to raise awareness.
Results of the second-round selection for the subsidy project to launch and implement large-scale demonstration projects on blue carbon and other carbon sinks
Published ・ Source Japan | 環境省
環境省 selected 4 of the 5 applications in the second round of public recruitment for the “Project to Launch and Implement Large-Scale Demonstration Projects on Blue Carbon and Other Carbon Sinks,” which aims to achieve net zero by 2050.
Notice of the 39th meeting of the Wildlife Subcommittee of the Central Environment Council’s Nature Environment Committee
Published ・ Source Japan | 環境省
Notice of the 39th meeting of the Wildlife Subcommittee of the Central Environment Council’s Nature Environment Committee. The meeting will be held on October 19, Reiwa 8, with a web conferencing system also in use. Media representatives must submit interview requests by 12 o’clock on October 15.
Holding of the 13th Meeting on Calculation Methods under the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Calculation, Reporting and Publication System
Published ・ Source Japan | 環境省
環境省 will hold the 13th Meeting on Calculation Methods under the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Calculation, Reporting and Publication System online on October 15, Reiwa 8. The agenda will cover supply chain management for synthetic fuels and other products, and the treatment of CCS.
An emergency pipeline repair next to No. 306 Ren'ai Street in Xinshi District by 台灣自來水公司 caused a water outage in Xinshi and Xinhe villages in Xinshi District, Tainan City, from 15:28 to 18:30 on October 9, 2026.
台灣自來水公司 is carrying out emergency repairs after a burst pipe at No. 36, Section 1, Fuxing Road, Tanzi District, causing a water outage in Furen and Toujiadong villages in Tanzi District, Taichung City.
Emergency repairs to a road leak on Beishanwei 2nd Road in Annan District, Tainan City, have caused partial water outages and reduced water pressure in the area.
台灣自來水公司 issued an update on a water outage affecting parts of Xiangshan District, Hsinchu City. Repairs on Lane 648, Section 5, Zhonghua Road are affecting Meishan, Haishan and Chaoshan villages, with the outage running from 14:46 to 19:00 on October 9, 2026.
Emergency repairs to a road leak on Heshan Street in Central and Western District, Tainan City, have caused partial water outages and reduced water pressure in the area.
Damage caused during road-widening work by 永溢營造 led 台灣自來水公司 to implement a water outage in Fulin Village, Guanyin District, Taoyuan City, on October 9, 2026.
Third preliminary allocation notice for the Reiwa 8 subsidy for facility development at medical facilities and other institutions (carryover from Reiwa 7) (second-round recruitment)
Published ・ Source Japan | 厚生労働省
A preliminary allocation totaling 76,817 thousand yen was issued to 23 prefectures for the Reiwa 8 subsidy for facility development at medical facilities and other institutions (carryover from Reiwa 7).
Notice of the 6th meeting on approaches to training and securing nursing staff toward 2040
Published ・ Source Japan | 厚生労働省
The Nursing Division of the Health Policy Bureau at 厚生労働省 issued a notice about the 6th meeting on training and securing nursing staff toward 2040. The meeting will be held on October 19, Reiwa 8, at Shiodome Business Forum. The notice includes information on attending as an observer and online streaming on YouTube.
The 9th meeting on whether diseases related to asbestos are work-related will be held in Reiwa 8
Published ・ Source Japan | 厚生労働省
厚生労働省 announced that the 9th meeting on whether diseases related to asbestos are work-related will be held on October 16, Reiwa 8. The agenda is expected to cover medical matters related to individual workers’ compensation claims.
The Pharmaceutical Affairs Council's First Committee on Pharmaceuticals will meet
Published ・ Source Japan | 厚生労働省
厚生労働省 announced that the Pharmaceutical Affairs and Food Sanitation Council’s First Committee on Drugs will meet on October 26, Reiwa 8. The meeting will be closed to the public to protect companies’ intellectual property.
The 10th meeting of the Local Cooperation Subcommittee of the Employment Security Division of the Labor Policy Council will be held
Published ・ Source Japan | 厚生労働省
厚生労働省 will hold the 10th meeting of the Local Cooperation Subcommittee of the Employment Security Division of the Labor Policy Council on October 16, Reiwa 8. The agenda includes the status of cooperation between the national government and local governments on employment, as well as cooperation involving the Kumamoto Labor Bureau and others. Attendance is open only to media representatives.
Holding of the Reiwa 8 meeting of stakeholders promoting cooperation between community and workplace health services
Published ・ Source Japan | 厚生労働省
厚生労働省 will hold the “Reiwa 8 Meeting of Stakeholders Promoting Cooperation Between Community and Workplace Health Services” online on November 13, with the aim of strengthening cooperation between community health and workplace health services.
Facts
“Program for the Reiwa 8 Meeting of Stakeholders Promoting Cooperation Between Community and Workplace Health Services” [87KB]
トラストライン “KILLER BURNER Ⅱ” functional food product (sold at ドン・キホーテ and its affiliated stores, and by mail order) - exchange/refund
Published ・ Source Japan | 消費者庁
トラストライン has begun offering exchanges or refunds for its “KILLER BURNER Ⅱ” functional food product, which was sold without meeting the requirements, at ドン・キホーテ and affiliated stores, as well as by mail order.
タッキーフーズ “Fukubutei Sesame Soy Milk Hot Pot” (sold at ヤスサキ) - refund/recall
Published ・ Source Japan | 消費者庁
タッキーフーズ is issuing refunds and recalling its “Fukubutei Sesame Soy Milk Hot Pot,” sold at ヤスサキ, due to allergens and labeling deficiencies, starting October 8, 2026.
杉本食肉産業 “Meshi Uma! Pork Steak with Flying Fish Stock” and 18 other products (sold at 57 ヤマナカ stores)) - refund/recall
Published ・ Source Japan | 消費者庁
杉本食肉産業 is issuing refunds and recalling “Meshi Uma! Pork Steak with Flying Fish Stock” and 18 other products sold at 57 ヤマナカ stores, due to missing labeling, starting October 5, 2026.
三和 “Dried Whitebait (Semi-Dried Chirimen)” (sold at 海宝丸小牧堀の内店) - refund/recall
Published ・ Source Japan | 消費者庁
三和 is issuing refunds and recalling “Dried Whitebait (Semi-Dried Chirimen)” sold at 海宝丸小牧堀の内店 over concerns that juvenile pufferfish may have been mixed in.
Partial Revisions to “Collateral Prices for Eligible Collateral,” etc.
Published ・ Source Japan | 日本銀行
日本銀行 will implement partial revisions to “Collateral Prices for Eligible Collateral” and “Market Value Ratios for Conditional Sales and Purchases of Japanese Government Bonds” starting Nov. 27, 2026.
Recruitment for student briefings, roundtable discussions with staff, and participation in open-company events related to 日本銀行
Published ・ Source Japan | 日本銀行
日本銀行 announced that it will hold briefings, roundtable discussions with staff, and open-company events for university and graduate students. The events will provide an opportunity to deepen understanding of the new recruitment courses, “General Course” and “Specialized Course,” starting in fiscal 2028, as well as career development.
日本銀行金融市場局 announced the results of the 17th Tokyo Money Market Survey, conducted in August 2026. Funding balances decreased year over year, investment balances increased, and responses saying market functioning was “high” were predominant.
Decision finding no violation in insider trading by an overseas resident who received information from an employee of a party negotiating a contract with （株）出前館
Published ・ Source Japan | 金融庁
金融庁 issued a decision finding no violation in the administrative hearing proceedings concerning insider trading by an overseas resident who received information from an employee of a party negotiating a contract with （株）出前館.
Administrative Actions Against プルデンシャル生命保険株式会社, ジブラルタ生命保険株式会社, and プルデンシャル・ホールディング・オブ・ジャパン株式会社
Published ・ Source Japan | 金融庁
金融庁 took administrative action against プルデンシャル生命保険株式会社, ジブラルタ生命保険株式会社, and プルデンシャル・ホールディング・オブ・ジャパン株式会社 in response to serious problems, including financial misconduct and compliance violations. The actions included business suspension orders and business improvement orders.
Facts
Corporate Number 4010001028465
Corporate Number 5010001034776
Corporate Number 2010001073307
Starting Tuesday, October 13, Reiwa 8
During the period through Sunday, January 31, Reiwa 9
Submit by Monday, November 30, Reiwa 8
The initial reporting reference date will be the end of February, Reiwa 9.
緯致 (4953) announced a cybersecurity incident in which some employee and work-related contact information was accessed without authorization. The company has taken measures to block and isolate the incident and notified the competent authorities. Operations are currently normal, with no material impact.