Su Chiao-hui signs debate invitations from 4 media outlets! Lee Chuan says he is willing to engage in policy discussions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Debate talks are heating up in the New Taipei mayoral race. DPP candidate Su Chiao-hui signed invitations from 4 media outlets, while KMT candidate Lee Chuan said he is willing to take part in both official and private debates. The two sides are sparring over their willingness to participate.
Facts
Su Chiao-hui's campaign has signed debate invitations from 4 media outlets: 三立, 民視, TVBS and 中視.
Lee Chuan has signed a consent form for an official debate and is open to invitations from television media.
Lee Chuan is willing to discuss policy with Su Chiao-hui. Their campaign staff can coordinate the debate platform and timing.
Lin Chu-yin, convener of Su Chiao-hui's campaign publicity group, hit back at the Lee Chuan camp for claiming that its opponent was afraid to take the stage.
Lee Chuan and Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng discussed affordable housing policy.
Chiang Wan-an's background and Shen Po-yang's family's 'red money' come into focus in campaign attacks; writer warns that mutual mudslinging could leave both sides worse off
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 2026 Taipei mayoral race has focused on Chiang Wan-an's background and questions about Shen Po-yang's family's business dealings. Writer 漂浪島嶼 urged both sides to stop exposing each other's scandals to avoid mutual damage, and accused media outlets of hyping the issue in violation of the rules of fair campaigning.
Facts
In a Facebook post on the 14th, writer 漂浪島嶼 said that continued attacks over Chiang Wan-an's background and Shen Po-yang's family's business dealings could leave both sides worse off.
Hong Kong-based Chinese Communist Party mouthpiece 文匯報 reported that after 兆億有限公司, owned by Shen Po-yang's father, was sanctioned by China, the family switched companies to continue doing business there.
Shen Po-yang denied that his family made money through ties to China, saying that his family had done business with Ecuador in the past.
The DPP's central leadership ultimately ordered an end to attacks on Chiang Wan-an's background.
漂浪島嶼 said that portraying Taiwanese businesspeople's international trade with Ecuador as a family making money through ties to China violates the rules of fair campaigning.
Taiwan stocks have been volatile amid consecutive net selling by 外資, but closed higher today after a late-session plunge. An expert said electronics stocks are under pressure, while traditional industries and financial stocks are providing support. The market is focused on U.S. CPI data and 台積電's earnings briefing.
Facts
外資 withdrew NT$165.342 billion yesterday, the 3rd-largest outflow on record.
外資 have been net sellers of Taiwan stocks for 6 consecutive trading days, withdrawing a cumulative NT$333 billion.
The weighted index closed at 48625 points today, up 284 points.
投信 bought a net NT$16.111 billion today, while 自營商 sold a net NT$11.471 billion.
Electronics and technology stocks are facing selling pressure ahead of 台積電's earnings briefing.
Both of the world's largest economies are in the spotlight! IMF: China should spend more, the U.S. should save more, and Europe should boost investment
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva urged the U.S., China and Europe at the annual meeting in Bangkok to make difficult policy changes to reduce imbalances. She said the U.S. needs to adjust its tax and spending policies, China needs to boost domestic demand, and Europe needs to increase investment.
Facts
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva spoke at the annual meetings of the IMF and World Bank in Bangkok, Thailand.
The IMF says the U.S. cannot escape its mounting debt through economic growth alone and must adjust its tax system or spending.
The IMF recommends that China shift its growth model from export-led growth toward greater emphasis on domestic consumption.
The average debt-servicing cost of low-income countries as a share of revenue has risen from 6% 10 years ago to 14%.
The IMF chief summed up the policy direction for the three major economies: China should spend more, the U.S. should save more, and Europe should increase investment.
The IMF singled out the U.S. and European countries, among other advanced economies, as the worst offenders when it comes to excessive debt.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent acknowledged that the country's deficit and debt levels are too high.
Sensitive timing ahead of the election! Huang Min-hui and Wang Mei-hui meet with Cho Jung-tai to discuss transportation in Chiayi
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Premier Cho Jung-tai met with Chiayi Mayor Huang Min-hui and Legislator Wang Mei-hui on the 14th to discuss transportation in Chiayi. They reached a 3-point consensus on connections to the high-speed rail station, including boosting BRT capacity, assessing an extension of the light rail Blue Line, and holding project-specific funding talks. The proposals aim to promote local development and advance the policy of balanced development across Taiwan.
Facts
Premier Cho Jung-tai met with Chiayi Mayor Huang Min-hui and Legislator Wang Mei-hui on the 14th to discuss transportation in Chiayi.
The meeting reached a short-term consensus to boost BRT capacity.
An expanded extension of the light rail Blue Line will be assessed as part of a feasibility study.
The funding burden for transportation construction will be discussed separately once the feasibility study is completed.
Boosting transportation capacity will help achieve the policy goal of 'balanced development across Taiwan.'
Stop calling it a bubble! 艾司摩爾 says AI equipment will remain in short supply for 2 years, with customers booking capacity for 29 and 30 in advance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Amid strong AI demand, 艾司摩爾 raised its revenue guidance and said customers are booking future capacity in advance. It expects demand to outstrip supply through 2028.
Facts
Original艾司摩爾預計第四季總淨銷售額介於142億至152億歐元之間。
艾司摩爾's 3rd-quarter net profit grew 134% to 5 billion euros.
Customers have shown a willingness to place orders in advance for 2029 or 2030.
高盛 forecasts that global AI infrastructure spending will exceed $1 trillion in 2026.
台積電 confirmed that it will bring High NA equipment into mass production around 2030.
Lai Hui-yuan criticized for telling Cher Wang to 'dress plainly'; admits it was inappropriate, says she feels deeply uneasy and will reflect
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
台北101 Chairwoman Cher Wang faced comments about her attire from committee convener Lai Hui-yuan while answering questions at the Legislative Yuan, sparking controversy. Lai later admitted that her remarks were inappropriate and apologized, stressing that professionalism should not be judged by clothing.
Facts
台北101 Chairwoman Cher Wang was told by Finance Committee convener Lai Hui-yuan to dress as plainly as the lawmakers the next time she appeared before the Legislative Yuan.
After watching the video, Lai Hui-yuan acknowledged that her remarks were inappropriate. She said she felt deeply uneasy that they had made Cher Wang and the public uncomfortable, and would reflect on them.
Lai Hui-yuan explained that her original intention was to reflect the views of some people in the room, and said that wearing a jacket draped over one's shoulders should take into account the formality of the legislature.
President Lai Ching-te stressed that Taiwan is a free and diverse society, and that no one's professionalism or dedication should be judged solely by their clothing.
Cher Wang attended a business report session of the Legislative Yuan's Finance Committee wearing a black dress with a white jacket draped over her shoulders.
Good Pregnancy Shuttle service extended, nanny subsidies increased: Johnny Chiang launches women's group support network and lays out care plan for all ages
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
KMT Taichung mayoral candidate Johnny Chiang established a women's group support network on the 14th and unveiled a care plan for all ages. The proposals include extending the Good Pregnancy Shuttle service, increasing nanny subsidies and using AI to care for older adults, in a bid to win women's support.
Facts
Johnny Chiang announced plans to extend the Good Pregnancy Shuttle service until 1 year after childbirth and subsidize RSV vaccinations for pregnant women.
Johnny Chiang proposes increasing subsidized in-home nanny services to 40 hours.
Johnny Chiang proposed introducing AI-powered home safety and fall-prevention monitoring, and launching the 'Good Muscle Strength Program.'
The Senior Citizen Care Card offers a discount of up to 200 points per taxi ride, and points will not expire at the end of the year.
Johnny Chiang plans to establish an 'AI Empowerment Academy' to help women improve their workplace skills.
Explainer: Have Chinese tourist numbers plunged and hurt Japan's department stores? Japanese media reveal surprising sales figures as these customer groups fill the gap
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Japanese media reports say that despite a drop in Chinese tourists due to political factors, department stores such as 三越伊勢丹 and 高島屋 have maintained profits by attracting visitors from other regions with the weaker yen, benefiting from high spending by wealthy shoppers, and tapping growth in high-income Japanese households.
Facts
In November 2025, the Chinese government urged its citizens to avoid traveling to Japan, and the related restrictions remain in place.
三越伊勢丹控股's duty-free sales to visitors to Japan grew sharply by 19.8% in fiscal 2025.
高島屋's sales to Japanese customers grew 4% last year and rose 9% in the 1st quarter of this year.
Original外國旅客的平均消費單價超過10萬日圓，較去年同期提高2到3成。
Original高島屋過去中國遊客曾占其免稅銷售額的6成，但今年第一季已降至42%。
In the 1st half of 2025, 三越伊勢丹's duty-free sales fell about 24% from the same period a year earlier, while 高島屋's fell 29%.
The weaker yen is one of the key factors behind the increase in visitors from South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Southeast Asia, and the renewed growth in duty-free sales.
U.S. September CPI rose 3.7% year over year, while core CPI rose 2.6%, both exceeding expectations, mainly because of a sharp rise in gasoline prices. Markets reacted negatively, and Taiwan index futures plunged overnight, falling below 48,600 points, while expectations grew that the Fed will raise rates further.
Facts
U.S. unadjusted September Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 3.7% year over year
U.S. September core CPI rose 2.6% year over year
U.S. gasoline prices rose 9.1% month over month in September
Taiwan index futures fell below 48,600 points overnight
Traders bet the Fed will raise rates 3 times by the end of next year
中信金 posted another huge September profit of 9.358 billion yuan: A full breakdown
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
中國信託金控 announced its self-reported September earnings, with after-tax net income of 9.358 billion yuan. Although down 16.3% year over year, it marked the second consecutive month above 9 billion. 中信銀行 and 中信創投 were the main profit drivers, benefiting respectively from adjustments to lending strategies and gains on AI investment valuations, while 台壽's profits fell sharply under the influence of U.S. Treasury yields.
Facts
中信金 September after-tax net income was 9.358 billion yuan, down 16.3% year over year
中信金's cumulative after-tax net income for the first 9 months was 63.237 billion yuan, up 4.1% year over year
中信銀行 September after-tax net income was 6.929 billion yuan, up 41.9% year over year
中信創投 earned nearly 1.4 billion yuan after tax in September alone
Including capital gains on subsidiaries' FVOCI stocks, 中信金's adjusted September profit was 26.995 billion yuan
Tokyo's old houses are cheap—is buying one to rent out worthwhile? Real estate report warns: Beyond the savings on the purchase price, factor in these costs
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
東京不動產研究所 released a September 2026 report analyzing transaction data for resale apartments in Tokyo's 23 wards. The study examined the effects of distance from stations, building age and disaster risk on per-unit prices. It found that the median price in central wards is skewed by the share of small apartments, while prices are actually lower farther from stations; older homes have significantly lower unit prices but require consideration of repair costs; and discounts grow as flood risk rises.
Facts
東京不動產研究所 released the Japan Real Estate Data Report in September 2026.
After adjusting the statistical conditions, in the 5 central wards, the unit price is about 1.6% lower for each additional 1-minute walk (in a straight line) from a station.
Small apartments (30 square meters or less) accounted for more than 2 tenths of transactions within a 5-minute walk of stations in central Tokyo.
When the projected flood depth reaches 3 to 5 meters, the estimated discount on unit prices widens to about 11.6%.
Shinjuku and Toshima see the steepest population losses! These 4 stations are the winners for buying a home in Tokyo: Population growth surges, and a roundup of 34 still-affordable stations
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
東京不動產研究所 released a report analyzing the relationship between population movement and home prices in Tokyo. It found that home prices rose even in 7 wards, including Shinjuku, that had net population outflows. The report also identified 34 stations with investment potential and noted that declining new-home supply benefits the resale market.
Facts
In 2025, 7 of Tokyo's 23 wards had net domestic migration outflows: Shinjuku, Toshima, Shibuya, Minato, Nakano, Chiyoda and Taito.
In the 1st quarter of 2026, the median transaction price per unit for resale apartments in all 7 of those wards was higher than in the same quarter a year earlier.
Of Shinjuku Ward's total net outflow of 3,776 people in 2025, Japanese nationals had a net inflow of 8, while foreign residents had a net outflow of 3,784.
In the 12 months through August 2026, construction began on 19,459 for-sale multi-unit residential homes in Tokyo, 23% fewer than in the same period a year earlier.
The report selected 34 stations using the criteria of a projected population growth rate above 6.2% and a transaction price below 990,000 yen per square meter.
Iriya, Uguisudani, Kiba and Oi Keibajo-mae ranked among the top 4 stations for projected population growth.
In 2025, Tokyo's 23 wards had a combined net domestic migration inflow of more than 39,000 people, including a net inflow of more than 75,000 people in their 20s.
Kanagawa and Saitama prefectures saw net domestic migration inflows of foreign residents, possibly because of housing costs.
Brawling over the Taipei mayoral election! KMT lawmakers besiege 沈伯洋 in the legislature; DPP caucus in Taipei City Council hits back: 蔣萬安 to deliver 4 special reports
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 2026 Taipei mayoral race has turned into a brawl. KMT legislator 徐巧芯 launched an offensive against 沈伯洋 in the legislature and used a livestream donation to demand his attendance. The DPP caucus in Taipei City Council retaliated by demanding that 蔣萬安 deliver reports on four special topics, including campus food safety and airport relocation. The KMT and DPP could engage in fierce battles in both the legislature and the city council.
Facts
In the 2026 Taipei mayoral race, KMT candidate 蔣萬安 is being caught up to by DPP candidate 沈伯洋.
While 沈伯洋 was appearing on a radio program, KMT legislator 徐巧芯 donated 670 yuan during a livestream and left a message asking him to return to the legislature for a meeting.
The special report scheduled by the Legislative Yuan's Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee is titled “Restructuring the Functions of Civilian and Military Aviation at National Airports through the Relocation of Songshan Airport and Expansion of Taichung Airport.”
From ally to obstacle? Reports say SpaceX restricted Ukraine's military use of Starlink; suspected U.S. pressure behind move
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
SpaceX restricted the use of Ukraine's military version of Starlink at high speeds, disrupting Ukrainian drone missions. The move came amid U.S. pressure on Ukraine to stop attacking Russian facilities, raising concerns about strains in the relationship between the allies.
Facts
SpaceX halted operation of the military version of Starlink at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour (about 160 kilometers per hour).
When drones reach speeds of 110 to 120 kilometers per hour, their Starlink connection may be interrupted for 10 to 20 seconds.
The move came as Washington was pressuring Ukraine to stop attacking Russian refineries.
Starlink is unavailable in Russia, and Ukrainian forces use other communications methods to strike Russia's oil industry.
Are retirees becoming the main homebuyers? Number of retirees carrying mortgages surges 10-fold; expert reveals grim data: Young buyers down to single digits
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
何世昌, executive director of 馨傳不動產智庫, released data showing that Taiwan's main mortgage-borrowing age group has aged by 10 years over the past 16 years. The proportion of homebuyers under 30 has shrunk sharply, while the number of people over 50 and retirees carrying mortgages has surged, reflecting the severe deferral of home purchases amid high housing prices.
Facts
In 2009, the country's main mortgage-borrowing group was people aged 30 to 40, accounting for as much as 36.82% of all mortgage borrowers
In 2025, young mortgage borrowers under 30 accounted for only about 6.44%
As of the end of 2025, the number of mortgage borrowers aged 50 and older had exceeded 470,000
The number of people aged 65, the statutory retirement age, who still had mortgages surged to 61,642 in 2025
The number of retirees carrying mortgages grew by more than 10 times
Shock report of an OpenAI insider! Engineer suspected of installing recording devices to steal secrets; AI model becomes “key sleuth” in arrest
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
OpenAI engineer Abdulrahman Al-Fawzan was arrested by the FBI on suspicion of installing recording devices at the company's headquarters to eavesdrop on AI technology. OpenAI used its own AI model to help solve the case, and no confidential information is currently believed to have leaked. The case highlights internal threats and national security risks facing tech giants.
Facts
The U.S. Department of Justice announced on October 14 the arrest of Abdulrahman Al-Fawzan, a Saudi OpenAI engineer, accusing him of attempting to eavesdrop by installing a concealed recording device in a conference room used by senior executives.
OpenAI used its own AI model to analyze the recording device found, successfully determining its source and how it worked and identifying the person who placed it.
The investigation found that the suspect entered a conference room on October 5 to check the hiding place, and left a bag containing a second recording device in another conference room.
OpenAI confirmed there is currently no indication that the suspect illegally obtained or leaked model weights, source code or customer data.
If convicted, the suspect faces up to 5 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and 3 years of supervised release after prison.
賈永婕 wears a jacket to testify and gets called out by her; 賴惠員 says it was about parliamentary decorum, not criticism of her style
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
台北101 Chairwoman 賈永婕 was reminded about decorum by committee convener 賴惠員 after wearing a jacket while testifying at the Legislative Yuan, sparking controversy. 賴惠員 clarified that she was only seeking to maintain order in the proceedings, had no intention of criticizing 賈永婕's personal style, and stressed that both sides should respect each other.
Facts
台北101 Chairwoman 賈永婕 was criticized by Finance Committee convener 賴惠員 on the 14th while testifying at the Legislative Yuan, with 賴惠員 saying her attire should reflect the formality of the legislative chamber.
賴惠員 explained that the reminder was motivated by her responsibility as committee convener to maintain order in the proceedings, and that after the meeting someone had commented that 賈永婕's way of wearing a jacket should take the formality of the setting into account.
賴惠員 stressed that the reminder was solely about parliamentary decorum and was in no way intended to criticize or disrespect 賈永婕's personal clothing style, taste or appearance.
賴惠員 said there should be a foundation of mutual respect between the legislature and officials appearing before it, and that legislators should treat those testifying with parity, reason and respect.
Is the offshore wind industry losing its shine? Phase 3-3 ends with a whimper as developers urge government to take action
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Fewer offshore wind developers showcased their projects at Taiwan International Smart Energy Week. CIP criticized the repeated failures in developer selection and recommended overhauling the rules. Ørsted announced its investment in the Dadu 1 project, while Tianfeng stressed the importance of policy stability in attracting capital.
Facts
Offshore wind developers have failed to win selection in the block development program 3 times in a row.
Only 2 developers bid in the Phase 3-3 selection process.
CIP's Fengmiao wind farm has completed financing, and its onshore and offshore substations have also been completed one after another.
Ørsted estimates the total development cost of Phase 3-2 at more than NT$160 billion.
The initial environmental review approved a capacity of 924MW for Ørsted's Dadu 1 offshore wind farm.
Emergency department at 台大醫院 overrun again! 400 people packed in on 1 day during the National Day holiday, deputy superintendent laments: ER being used like an outpatient clinic
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Chen Chin-hsing, deputy superintendent of 台大醫院, said respiratory disease outbreaks have pushed the number of daily emergency patients above 300 recently, nearing 400 during the National Day holiday. To ease overcrowding, the hospital will open a new ward and urged the public to use its hotline to help direct patients to appropriate care, rather than use the emergency department like an outpatient clinic.
Facts
Chen Chin-hsing, deputy superintendent of 台大醫院, said the number of emergency patients has exceeded 300 per day recently.
台大醫院's emergency department set a record during the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, with more than 430 visits in a single day.
During the National Day holiday, the daily peak number of emergency patients at 台大醫院 came close to 400.
台大醫院 plans to open a new emergency step-down ward on the 6th floor on Dec. 1.
台大醫院 has set up the “Ai Bang Medical Consultation Hotline” to help direct patients to appropriate care.
Can Shen Po-yang really beat Chiang Wan-an? Scholar reveals results of Taipei's 456-district voting model: the threshold Shen's “ocean current” must cross to turn the race around
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Du Shengcong, a scholar at Ming Chuan University, analyzed the 2026 local elections using a voting model covering Taipei's 456 districts. He said that although Shen Po-yang's “ocean current” effect has attracted attention, it would be difficult to overcome Chiang Wan-an's lead under typical turnout conditions. Shen would need turnout to reach 80% and would also have to win over centrist voters to have a chance.
Facts
Du Shengcong, chair of the Department of Radio and Television at Ming Chuan University, conducted an analysis using a voting model covering Taipei's 456 districts.
Estimates under 3 turnout scenarios—65%, 67.5% and 70%—all show Chiang Wan-an maintaining his lead.
For Shen Po-yang to draw even with Chiang Wan-an, turnout in Taipei would need to reach about 80%.
Taipei's voter turnout has never exceeded 71% in nearly 20 years.
Among voters who did not vote in 2022, about 44% support Chiang Wan-an.
The key districts Chiang Wan-an needs to hold include Da'an-Wenshan, Songshan-Xinyi and Neihu-Nangang.
Somalia and Somaliland are different countries! One remark from Trump has the small East African nation elated
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The government of Somaliland in East Africa welcomed Trump's recognition of its independent status, calling it a diplomatic breakthrough. Although his remarks were seen as targeting domestic political opponents in the United States, they strengthened the perception that Somaliland is already an independent country.
Facts
The Government of the Republic of Somaliland issued an official statement on the 14th, welcoming U.S. President Trump’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent country.
Somaliland has governed itself for more than 30 years and has established international borders.
Somaliland established diplomatic relations with Israel in late 2025 and received formal recognition.
Somaliland has a coastline stretching 850 kilometers along the Gulf of Aden.
The Somaliland Representative Office in Taiwan officially moved to the embassy district on 115年6月12日.
Su Chiao-hui pushes for industry in New Taipei! Attends industrial association board meeting and launches Lions Friends support group: Keep businesses in New Taipei and work together for charity
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
New Taipei mayoral candidate Su Chiao-hui attended the board meeting of 全國工業總會 and the launch of the Lions Friends support group on the 14th. She put forward proposals including accelerating development of 9 industrial parks, an AI smart government and an urban renewal bureau, aiming to win support from industry and local groups and deliver welfare policies.
Facts
Su Chiao-hui attended the board meeting of 全國工業總會 and the launch of the “Lions Friends Support Group” on the 14th.
Su Chiao-hui proposed accelerating development of “9 major industrial parks,” particularly highlighting the potential of Tamsui Science City to support an AI industry supply chain.
Su Chiao-hui pledged to introduce AI tools to assist civil servants and promote “less pressure at work, with results felt within 1 year.”
Su Chiao-hui proposed a welfare policy to raise the Senior EasyCard allowance to 1,000 points per month, with no expiration.
Su Chiao-hui reiterated her proposal to establish an “Urban Renewal Bureau” to elevate the administrative level and create a single point of contact.
國際獅子會 established a “Lions Friends Support Group,” and Su Chiao-hui said 4 major community groups have successively voiced their support.
Su Chiao-hui said that in her 11 years as a legislator, she has held 60 market walkabouts and more than 40 local forums.
A 470-kilometer pilgrimage puts faith into action! Yuntian Temple establishes a pilgrimage group for Lord Guan, calling on believers across Taiwan to join
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
玄鷲山高邑雲天宮 has established a pilgrimage group for Lord Guan, with deputy incense burner master Fu Chun-yun serving as its chair. The group aims to turn personal religious practice into a shared journey.
Facts
玄鷲山高邑雲天宮 has officially established a “Lord Guan Pilgrimage Group,” with deputy incense burner master Fu Chun-yun serving as its chair.
The inaugural pilgrimage will be held from Jan. 10 to 27 next year, under the theme “Spreading the Way on Pilgrimage, Passing the Torch.”
Earlier this year, deputy incense burner master Fu Chun-yun undertook “A Hundred-Mile Journey of Gratitude,” a trip lasting about 18 days and covering 470 kilometers, linking nearly 60 temples.
Yuntian Temple's Baolian Guangze Zunwang will lead the pilgrimage group, setting out with Lord Guan on the journey.
At each of the 56 temples along the route, registrants can have their names submitted and recited on their behalf. Their names will be recorded in a prayer petition until it is burned at the final stop, Yilan Sanqing Temple.
What to do about frequent nighttime urination? Doctor warns against blaming it only on “aging”: early medical care can still help
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
衛生福利部台北醫院 held a seminar on urinary health for older adults. Dr. Lin Wei-you said urinary problems should not simply be blamed on aging and advised seeking medical care early and using health measures such as Kegel exercises to improve symptoms, quality of life and safety for older adults.
Facts
衛生福利部台北醫院 held a seminar titled “Going to the Bathroom Matters More Than You Think.”
The doctor who participated in the seminar was Dr. Lin Wei-you of the urology department at 衛生福利部台北醫院.
As men age, they may face problems such as an enlarged prostate, overactive bladder and urinary tract stones.
As women age, they may experience urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence and blood in the urine.
Urinary incontinence can be improved with medication, pelvic floor muscle training or surgery.
The seminar led attendees through Kegel exercises as a daily health practice.
Only Taiwan invitee: 中國信託銀行 takes the stage at the Global Finance forum, winning “Outstanding Financial Innovation Lab” award for 5 consecutive years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
中國信託銀行 received 22 awards at the Global Finance forum in Singapore, winning the Global Outstanding Financial Innovation Lab award for 5 consecutive years. Chief Information Officer Chia Ching-kuang was invited to share the bank's achievements in applying AI, showcasing Taiwan's leadership in financial digitalization.
Facts
中國信託商業銀行 won 22 awards at the Global Finance annual awards ceremony.
中國信託銀行 received the most awards of any financial institution in Taiwan.
中國信託銀行 has won the “Global Outstanding Financial Innovation Lab” award for 5 consecutive years.
中國信託銀行 was the only Taiwanese institution invited to share practical experience at the Global Finance forum.
中國信託銀行 is participating in a regulatory sandbox pilot for virtual asset custody services.
中國信託銀行's “AI SKYNET 中信神盾聯防科技平臺” won an Asia-Pacific innovation award.
Did the Ministry of Digital Affairs spend 20 million on a “Digital Queen's Head”? Taiwan People's Party says personnel costs made up more than half: the entire report was just 1 sheet of A4 paper
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Taiwan People's Party questioned the Ministry of Digital Affairs' “Digital Queen's Head” project, saying its budget was improperly allocated, personnel costs accounted for too much, and the report was cursory. Digital Affairs Minister Lin Yi-jing explained that the modeling covered 3 hectares. The party criticized inflated figures for the project's results and the failure to collect licensing fees, and called for strict scrutiny of the sharply increased budget going forward.
Facts
The Administration for Digital Industries spent 20 million last year on an urban-rural modeling and digital twin project, including 11.26 million in personnel costs.
Digital Affairs Minister Lin Yi-jing said the modeling covered about 3 hectares, including Yehliu Geopark and surrounding streets.
The Taiwan People's Party said the complete report provided by the Ministry of Digital Affairs was just 1 sheet of A4 paper.
The Ministry of Digital Affairs’ budget rose from NT$5 billion in 2025 to NT$12 billion allocated for 2027.
The budget for the Administration for Digital Industries increased from NT$2.2 billion to NT$6.5 billion, while NT$800 million will be allocated for the digital modeling plan next year.
The NT$418 million budget proposed this year was cut to zero under the Taiwan People's Party's leadership.
Poll puts Su Chiao-hui 13.1 percentage points ahead of Lee Chuan; she admits she was “taken aback” and urges supporters not to let up.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A New Taipei mayoral poll released by 信民協會 showed Su Chiao-hui leading Lee Chuan by 13.1 percentage points. Su took a cautious stance, stressing that supporters must not let up, and is actively coordinating cross-Taipei and New Taipei events with Shen Po-yang.
Facts
信民協會 released a New Taipei mayoral poll on Oct. 13, 2026, showing Su Chiao-hui with 43.1% support and Lee Chuan with 30.0%, a gap of 13.1 percentage points.
In an interview, Su Chiao-hui admitted she was startled and caught her breath when she saw the lead in the poll, but worried that supporters might become complacent.
Su Chiao-hui has spent more than 800 days visiting local communities and stressed that there is no room to let up in the final stretch.
畢肯市場研究公司 conducted telephone interviews for the poll, completing 1073 valid samples.
Su Chiao-hui said her team and Shen Po-yang's team are still coordinating schedules to present their vision of shared prosperity for the two cities.
Could the Dalinpu relocation turn into “a deep courtyard”? Lin Chih-hung warns the site is 81 meters deep and urges the city government to fill in the missing support measures.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Kaohsiung City Councilor Lin Chih-hung warned that the relocation site for Dalinpu residents is too deep, potentially raising concerns about housing and fire safety. A total of 239 residents signed a petition urging the city government to provide the missing support measures and prevent them from trading old problems for new ones.
Facts
Some residential blocks at the Dalinpu relocation site are 45 to 81 meters deep.
If the homes are arranged back-to-back and no roads are added, each lot could be 22.5 to 40.5 meters deep.
A total of 239 residents who agreed to relocate launched a petition and submitted their demands to Mayor Chen Chi-mai.
The original Dalinpu residential area had 283 corner lots, while only 155 are planned for the relocation area.
Land allocation issues at the Dalinpu relocation site will affect residents' lives for at least 50 years.
As of Sept. 23, all six road construction projects at the relocation site were ahead of schedule.
Does an AI park really require relocating Songshan Airport? Su Chiao-hui proposes the Tamsui Science City and highlights her biggest difference with Lee Chuan.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Democratic Progressive Party New Taipei mayoral candidate Su Chiao-hui questioned Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an's proposal to relocate Songshan Airport to make way for an AI park, saying it lacked details on supporting measures. She proposed the Tamsui Science City as an alternative and stressed the need to actively attract businesses to retain New Taipei's talent and investment.
Facts
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an proposed relocating Songshan Airport to develop an AI park, setting off a political debate in the Taipei-New Taipei mayoral race.
Democratic Progressive Party New Taipei mayoral candidate Su Chiao-hui questioned whether the relocation plan had addressed supporting measures for passenger and freight transport needs, outlying-island medical care and military strategy.
Su Chiao-hui said New Taipei's Tamsui Science City was another option for developing the AI industry and could be assessed for its ability to accommodate industrial development needs.
Su Chiao-hui noted that the Zhonghe Guangfu Line is planned to connect with Songshan Airport, and said closing the airport would affect the route's destination and service needs.
Su Chiao-hui said proactively attracting businesses and creating local jobs were key differences between her and rival Lee Chuan in their approaches to urban development.
Courting grassroots votes in Yongkang! Chen Ting-fei joins Chen Chiu-ping, Huang Chao-hui and Chu Cheng-hsuan on a market canvassing tour: aiming for a clean sweep for mayor and councilors.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Tainan mayoral candidate Chen Ting-fei joined several city council candidates on a canvassing tour of Yongkang Bingzai Market on the morning of the 14th to seek grassroots support and aim for a clean sweep for female mayor and councilors.
Facts
At 6:50 a.m. on the 14th, Chen Ting-fei joined Chen Chiu-ping, Huang Chao-hui and Chu Cheng-hsuan to canvass for votes at Yongkang Bingzai Market.
Chen Ting-fei aims to become Tainan's first female mayor and secure a clean sweep for the council candidates.
Market vendors warmly presented rice dumplings to the candidates during the canvassing tour as a show of support.
Supporters brought Feifei teddy bears and “Rise Up with Fei” posters and asked Chen Ting-fei to sign them and pose for photos.
Chen Ting-fei urged local residents to show their support for the Tainan team through their votes on Nov. 28.
Corporate generosity defies the housing market slump! Yung Ching will host a year-end banquet for 600 tables in Kaohsiung next year; 享溫馨 has landed the catering contract for 3 consecutive years.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
永慶房產集團 announced that 享溫馨集團 will handle the catering for its year-end banquet, to be held at the Kaohsiung Exhibition Center in January 2027 for 600 tables, for the third consecutive year. The event will feature upgraded dining standards and branding details. The group is also partnering with a charity concert at the Kaohsiung Arena in November, demonstrating its resilience and customer appreciation strategy amid a downturn.
Facts
永慶房產集團 plans to hold a joint year-end banquet for about 600 tables at the Kaohsiung Exhibition Center in January 2027.
永慶房產集團 will hold the “Yung Ching Night: Supercharged Concert” at the Kaohsiung Arena on Nov. 5 this year.
李奇霖, general manager of 享溫馨集團, said the catering market competes on creativity and innovation.
永慶房產集團 will incorporate its brand slogan and logo into food containers to strengthen its corporate identity.
Original works by Picasso and Klimt go on display; Taichung City Government and 國巨基金會 join forces for an international collection exhibition at the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts on 11/20.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
台中市政府 and 國巨基金會 will jointly present “Scorpion and Frog: 國巨基金會 Collection Exhibition” at 台中市立美術館 on Nov. 20. The major international exhibition brings together 66 works by 34 masters, including 55 works making their Taiwan debut, giving the public a chance to view world-class art treasures up close.
Facts
“Scorpion and Frog: 國巨基金會 Collection Exhibition,” a major international exhibition jointly presented by 台中市政府 and 國巨基金會, will open at 台中市立美術館 on Nov. 20.
The exhibition features 66 precious works from the 國巨基金會 collection, spanning the Renaissance to the present day. As many as 55 works will be shown publicly in Taiwan for the first time.
The exhibition brings together works by 34 internationally acclaimed artists, including Gustav Klimt, Pablo Picasso, Mark Rothko, Andy Warhol, David Hockney and Jeff Koons.
Early-bird tickets will be on sale for a limited time from Oct. 15 through Nov. 19, at a discounted price of NT$200 each, down from the original price of NT$300.
The exhibition is curated by Philip Larratt-Smith, curator at 美國伊斯頓基金會 (The Easton Foundation).
The inaugural “2026 Taichung Fiber Art Biennial” opens on 10/31, bringing 18 artists from across Asia together for a cross-border dialogue.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
台中市政府文化局 is holding the “2026 Taichung Fiber Art Biennial” for the first time. Co-curated by Wu Shang-lin and Con Cabrera, it brings together 18 Asian artists to explore island cultures and the contemporary transformation of fiber art through nonlinear narratives.
Facts
The inaugural “2026 Taichung Fiber Art Biennial” will open at 台中市纖維工藝博物館 on Oct. 31.
Taiwanese independent curator Wu Shang-lin leads the curatorial vision for the biennial, with Filipino artist and independent curator Con Cabrera serving as co-curator.
The exhibition is titled “Nonlinear Narratives—Connecting and Understanding Islands” and features 18 artists from Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, South Korea, Japan and other countries.
International forums are also planned for Oct. 31 and Nov. 1.
Lead curator Wu Shang-lin said the exhibition focuses on three core themes: “island mythology,” “natural mimicry” and “cultural diversity.”
The “2026 Taichung Fiber Art Biennial” runs from Oct. 31 through Feb. 28 next year.
Taichung's Wenshan Incinerator launches near ten-billion-dollar BOT renewal project; waste processing capacity to rise 50%, turning a NIMBY facility into a community asset.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen announced the launch of a BOT project worth nearly NT$ ten billion to replace aging equipment at the Wenshan Incinerator and address insufficient capacity. The new facility will increase waste processing capacity by 50% and strengthen environmental standards, with operations expected to begin in 119.
Facts
Taichung's Wenshan Incinerator has been operating for more than 30 years and faces aging equipment and insufficient waste processing capacity. The city government is pursuing a BOT project worth nearly NT$ ten billion to replace the facility.
The new facility's daily waste processing capacity will rise from 600 metric tons to 900 metric tons, an increase of 50%.
The new facility's air pollutant emissions will fall by 50% to 85%, while power generation efficiency will increase by 67%.
台泥文山公司 signed a contract with 日本三菱重工 on Dec. 19, 114.
The new facility is expected to begin operations in 119, with construction scheduled to take about 4 years.
“Aesthetic Hsinchu” shines on the international stage! Kao Hung-an: Hsinchu City tourism and arts and culture have won 79 international awards in 3 years.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Hsinchu Mayor Kao Hung-an announced on the 14th that the city’s tourism and cultural events have won a cumulative 79 international awards since 113. The Department of Cultural Affairs leads with 62 awards, including a U.S. IDEA silver award and the German iF Design Award, showcasing the city’s soft power in aesthetics.
Facts
Hsinchu City’s tourism and cultural events have won a cumulative 79 international awards since 113.
The Hsinchu City Government Department of Cultural Affairs has won a cumulative 62 international awards.
“City Canvas: Palace Museum X Hsinchu Digital Special Exhibition” won a silver award in the Environmental Design category of the professional division of the U.S. IDEA International Design Excellence Awards.
The “2024 Hsinchu City Glass Art Festival” and the special exhibition “Traces of Architecture, Eternal: A Century of Light and Shadow at the Hsinchu City Hall” won the German iF Design Award.
Hsinchu City Government departments set a record of 17 international awards for tourism and cultural events.
The Hsinchu International Kite Festival and Xiangshan Wetlands Art Festival, organized by the Department of Industry Development, won awards.
The Zhucheng City God Festival, organized by the Department of Civil Affairs, received international recognition.
Hello Kitty leads the way to Taichung: Highlights revealed for the 2026 Taichung International Flower Carpet Festival, including a 19-meter dessert castle
Medical technology takes another step forward: Yang Ming Chiao Tung University breaks ground on the Boron Neutron Capture Therapy and Advanced Imaging Research Center
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University and Heron Neutron Medical Corporation broke ground on the Boron Neutron Capture Therapy and Advanced Imaging Research Center on the 14th, bringing together medical and technological resources. The Miaoli County Government hailed it as a milestone in precision medicine and expects the park to spur local industrial upgrading through core medical industries.
Facts
A groundbreaking ceremony for the Boron Neutron Capture Therapy and Advanced Imaging Research Center was held on the 14th at the Boai Campus of 國立陽明交通大學.
The research center covers a total area of about 3,073 square meters and is planned to have one floor above ground and two below ground.
The research center is purpose-built to house equipment and provide operational training space for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) and an ultra-high-field magnetic resonance imaging system (7TMRI).
Miaoli County Deputy Magistrate Lai Hsiang-ling hailed the research center as an important milestone in the development of precision medicine in Taiwan.
County Magistrate Chung Tung-chin witnessed Yang Ming Chiao Tung University and Heron Neutron Medical Corporation sign a memorandum of cooperation in July this year (115).
Chiang Wan-an pays respects at Monga Longjin Temple; temple presents him with a “Taipei Wan-an” fan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chiang Wan-an paid respects at Monga Longjin Temple in the evening and received a “Taipei Wan-an” fan and a radish as blessings. He cited achievements including the Wanda Line metro and the redevelopment of the fruit and vegetable market as he sought support for reelection; DPP candidate Shen Po-yang also attended an event at the temple the same day.
Facts
200th anniversary of the temple’s construction
To be completed and open to traffic next year
Vendors will be able to move into the new market by the end of the year
South Korea releases probe findings: 16 financial institutions hacked, 100,000 records leaked
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
South Korea’s financial authorities released the findings of an investigation, saying 16 financial institutions were targeted by hackers using artificial intelligence (AI), resulting in the leak of about 100,000 pieces of personal information, including names and phone numbers. No bank account or card numbers have been found among the leaked information.
Former Ukrainian officer stands trial in Germany over Nord Stream explosions, risking strain on German-Ukrainian ties
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former Ukrainian officer Kuznetsov is standing trial in Hamburg, Germany, accused of involvement in the 2022 Nord Stream pipeline explosions. Prosecutors accuse him of war crimes, and the case could strain German-Ukrainian relations.
Facts
Currently 50 years old
At a depth of about 80 meters
At least 4
Weighing 27 kilograms
The 6 suspected accomplices
Including 4 deep-sea divers
Companies mentioned：中央社、衛報、The Guardian、北溪公司、Nord Stream AG
UK trade secretary: We will not impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles under EU pressure
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
UK Trade Secretary Reynolds said the United Kingdom would not impose import tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles under pressure from the European Union. Decisions would be based on the UK’s national interests and the export-oriented nature of its auto industry, while also considering the risk of retaliation by China.
Facts
Rates could exceed 45%
An import quota of 350,000 Chinese hybrid electric vehicles
Analysis: High oil prices drive up China’s September CPI increase
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China’s CPI rose 0.9% year on year in September, with the increase widening by 0.1 percentage points from August. Experts say rising international oil prices amid tensions in the Middle East caused domestic gasoline prices to jump 16.6%, the main factor pushing up the CPI. Meanwhile, the AI boom continued to drive up prices of chips and other electronic products, while food prices kept falling.
Facts
September CPI rose 0.9% year on year
The increase widened by 0.1 percentage points from the previous month
Month-on-month increase of 0.2%
Gasoline prices rose 16.6%
The increase widened by 7.3 percentage points
Added about 0.47 percentage points to annual CPI growth
Widening to 7.3% this month
October ... annual growth is expected to remain around 1.0%
Prices of industrial consumer goods excluding energy rose 1.6%
Data storage devices... rose by 46.7%, respectively
Tablet computers... rose by...23.6%, respectively
Prices of mobile phones and other items continued to rise, with increases of...14.9%
The winning numbers for Jin Cai 539 Issue No. 115249 were drawn, with no jackpot winner; there were winners in the second prize, 3-Star and 4-Star categories.
U.S. CPI rose 3.7% year over year in September, above market expectations
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. CPI rose 3.7% year over year in September, above the market expectation of 3.6%, mainly due to higher fuel costs; core CPI rose 2.6% year over year.
Facts
The September Consumer Price Index (CPI) came in above market expectations, with the annual increase reaching 3.7%
compared with 3.4% in August
forecasting a 3.6% year-over-year increase in September CPI
China plans to recruit about 35,700 people through its 2027 civil service examination, down 6.3% from 2026 and marking a decline for the 2nd consecutive year. Of the positions, 69% are open to recent graduates, as part of efforts to promote youth employment. Although recruitment numbers have fallen, applications have increased year by year, intensifying competition. The tax system is the main recruiting sector, accounting for 67.28%.
Ukraine says West gave no warning of Russian missile attack; U.S. and European officials say intelligence sharing unchanged
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's accusation that Western allies failed to warn Ukraine of a Russian missile attack, U.S. and European Union officials clarified that intelligence-sharing policies had not changed; Moscow said it was closely monitoring the situation.
Li Ming-che visits Germany: Not a victim of wrongful imprisonment, hopes prison experience can become an asset for international dialogue
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Human rights activist Li Ming-che visited Germany and shared his experience of being imprisoned in China for 5 years, hoping to turn it into an asset for international dialogue. He also expressed gratitude to German friends who helped secure his release.
Facts
was imprisoned in China for 5 years
Li Ming-che was detained after traveling to China in 2017
Yemeni rebels attack 沙烏地阿美石油公司; reports say several floors of headquarters building damaged
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Yemen's Houthi rebels announced an attack on 沙烏地阿美石油公司 facilities in Dhahran, severely damaging the top 3 floors of the headquarters building, including the CEO's office. The campus remains operational, but some business activities have been relocated.
Facts
The top 3 floors were severely damaged
The fire spread between the 6th and 10th floors
The fire first broke out on the 9th floor of the south wing of the office building that was hit
Li Yuan visits Tainan's 100 cultural bases, emphasizes vision for a thousand-mile cultural forest
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Minister of 文化部 Li Yuan visited Tainan's 100 cultural bases and emphasized that the National Museum of Taiwan History's Phase 2 expansion plan would use ecological corridors to connect the Asia-Pacific International Baseball Training Center, as well as link facilities such as the Shanhai Zhen National Greenway, to realize the vision of a "thousand-mile cultural forest."
Facts
Phase 2 expansion plan
1000 newly planted native trees
jointly proposed in 2007 by members of the public, including Wu Mao-cheng, executive director of the Tainan Community University Taijiang Branch
planning was formally launched in 2011 by then-Tainan Mayor Lai Ching-te
renamed the "Shanhai Zhen National Greenway" in 2019
drawing on his experience promoting the Thousand-Mile Trail since 2006
Mia Fardows nominated for Golden Horse; wrapped in a towel with wet hair when she received the news
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At the premiere of the film "Shayang," Golden Horse Best Supporting Actress nominee Mia Fardows and Best New Performer nominee Nanda Gubol made their first visit to Taiwan and shared amusing stories about learning of their nominations.
Cho Jung-tai meets Huang Min-hui, pledges help with BRT capacity and talks on light rail funding
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Premier of the 行政院 Cho Jung-tai met Chiayi City Mayor Huang Min-hui, reaching 3 points of consensus on transportation issues between Chiayi County and City: in the short term, the 交通部 will help increase BRT feeder capacity, expand the feasibility study for the light rail Blue Line, and negotiate the funding arrangements through a special project at a later stage.
Without AI regulation, DeepMind executive warns, major accident could occur within 2 years
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Google DeepMind chair Demis Hassabis warned that without appropriate regulation and safety measures, AI systems could cause a major safety incident within 2 years. The European Union has required major AI companies to explain their safeguards under the Artificial Intelligence Act.
Male college student jumps onto tracks at Tainan Station, forcing a Puyuma Express train to stop outside the station
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A male college student surnamed Luo, apparently after an argument with his mother, jumped onto the tracks at Tainan Station in the evening, forcing a Puyuma Express train to make an unscheduled 2-minute stop. Police and bystanders pulled him back onto the platform and sent him to hospital. Police will refer the case for penalties under the Railway Act.
Wu Shu-chin pledges to seek establishment of maritime talent training base to build an innovative future for Penghu
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Democratic Progressive Party Penghu County mayoral candidate Wu Shu-chin said that, if elected, she would ask the central government to establish an offshore-island maritime talent training base in Penghu and work with the 交通部, 航港局 and other agencies to update equipment and train maritime professionals.
Shen Boyang canvasses Shilin Night Market, says Shilin and Beitou should first reap AI dividends
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Boyang canvassed Shilin Night Market, saying Shilin and Beitou should be the first to reap AI dividends. He also responded to questions from Chiang Wan-an's campaign office about his views on the technology corridor.
U.S. troops return to Lithuania, with 2 battalions and more than a thousand troops to be deployed by mid-November
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The first rotation of U.S. troops has arrived in Lithuania. Deployment of 2 battalions, comprising more than a thousand troops, is expected to be completed by mid-November to restore troop levels and bolster regional security.
Sanae Takaichi's Cabinet loses a minister less than a month after reshuffle; agriculture minister resigns amid scandal
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japanese Agriculture Minister Kazuo Yanagida resigned amid scandals over alleged arrangements for free shuttle buses during an election campaign and cuts to local government budgets. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi accepted his resignation, marking the first time a Cabinet member has left over a scandal since her administration took office.
健喬 and 啟弘 join forces with Japanese companies to pursue insomnia drug licensing and gene therapy
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
健喬 signed an exclusive licensing agreement with Japan's Nxera Pharma for insomnia drug QUVIVIQ in 8 Asia-Pacific markets. 啟弘生技 announced 4 partnerships, including collaborations with Japan's OGTP and TOKIWA Bio, Taiwan's 高端疫苗, and Singapore's 愛瑪詩生醫, to develop gene therapy CDMO, biosafety testing and raw material supply.
Student groups protesting at Shih Hsin University anniversary event blocked from entering; school says views should be expressed rationally
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
世新大學 held its anniversary gala at Taipei Arena. Security guards blocked student groups seeking to enter with protest banners over a lack of transparency in the allocation of university resources. The school stressed that opinions should be expressed rationally and lawfully.
Marine debris plagues Matsu islands; county government says China refused request to take it back
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Beaches across the Matsu islands are plagued by marine debris from China. Lienchiang County Government made repeated requests through cross-strait exchanges and inquiries to shipping companies for China's help in taking the waste back for disposal, but was refused on the grounds that it was "foreign waste."
Facts
More than nine-tenths of marine debris in Matsu comes from China
Matsu is just over 10 nautical miles from China
More than 110 nautical miles from Taiwan's main island
Households in Lienchiang County generate about 2700 metric tons of garbage annually
The annual cost of preliminary handling, including collection, is about NT$3000萬元
銀行公會: Proposes recommended provisions for stablecoin issuance in response to emerging technology developments
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At its 15th 2nd General Meeting of Members' Representatives, 銀行公會 proposed revising relevant regulations, drafting recommended provisions for subsidiary legislation authorizing stablecoin issuance, and strengthening joint cybersecurity defenses in response to the development of AI and emerging technologies. 金管會 Chair Peng Jin-long set out 3 key expectations for the banking industry: strengthening capital structures, giving back to society, and adopting a dual-track talent strategy.
國際能源總署: Tight diesel supplies to persist through 2027
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 國際能源總署 report says the market will remain tight through 2027 as the U.S.-Iran war disrupts diesel supplies from the Persian Gulf and depletes inventories. Although refining capacity is expected to recover in the first quarter of next year, potentially creating a surplus, that would still not fully make up for the shortfall since the end of February.
Facts
Diesel market supply and demand to remain tight through 2027
Diesel market to see a surplus in the first quarter of next year
Since the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran in late February
Companies mentioned：國際能源總署、International Energy Agency、法新社、中央社
China sanctions officials from Taiwan's diplomatic allies; MAC says heavy-handed tactics deepen resentment
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China sanctioned officials from Paraguay and Belize. The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council said the move was not at odds with efforts to win over the hearts and minds of Taiwanese people. The Mainland Affairs Council responded that Beijing's high-handed conduct would deepen Taiwanese people's resentment toward the Chinese Communist Party.
Woman found dead in Taichung homicide; son suspected of killing an ascendant relative, prosecutors seek detention without visitation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A woman surnamed Zhou was killed in Taichung. Prosecutors asked a court to detain her son, surnamed Lin, without visitation after questioning him on suspicion of killing a lineal ascendant.
Facts
Taichung, 14
Prosecutors received a report on the afternoon of the 12th
Work begins on Keelung Xinyi temporary market; Hsieh Kuo-liang calls it starting point for urban renewal
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Work has begun on Keelung City's Xinyi temporary market. Mayor Hsieh Kuo-liang called it a starting point for urban renewal. The city is investing NT$4800萬元 in renovations, which are expected to be completed next April, when 94 stalls will move in.
Facts
Has been in use for more than 50 years
Original新台幣4800萬元
201 existing stalls
62 stalls chose to leave
45 stalls will remain closed temporarily
The remaining 94 stalls will move to the temporary market
Hong Kong signs double taxation avoidance agreements with 6 countries, including Jordan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Hong Kong has signed double taxation avoidance agreements with 6 countries, including Jordan. The Hong Kong government has issued 6 orders, which will take effect upon gazettal on the 16th. With these 6 countries, Hong Kong has signed similar agreements with 60 tax jurisdictions.
法盛投資管理: AI boom sweeps Asia as investors expect high returns but face risk mismatch
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
A 2026 investor survey by 法盛投資管理 found that investors expect returns as high as 17.3% but most consider themselves conservative, revealing a significant risk mismatch. Experts recommend diversifying AI-related concentration risks through the breadth of U.S. stocks and non-investment-grade bonds.
Facts
法盛投資管理 surveyed 750 investors across five Asian markets in August 2026.
Asian investors expect a long-term real return of 17.3%, with Singapore highest at 20%.
South Korean investors' return expectations are more than twice what financial advisers consider reasonable.
In the survey, 73% of respondents described themselves as conservative or moderate investors.
法盛 forecasts that the Fed rate will remain around 4.25%.
Taiwanese investors have 61% of their holdings in passive ETFs and 59% in active ETFs.
93% of Taiwanese investors are more focused than before on cross-regional diversification.
U.S. September CPI rose 3.7% year over year; core CPI rose 0.3% month over month and 2.6% year over year
Mercer Advisors Chief Investment Officer Donald Calcagni says energy costs are seeping into other sectors
施羅德 senior economist George Brown says core inflation shows domestic price pressures are deeply entrenched
Spartan Capital Securities Chief Market Economist Peter Cardillo warns the Fed may need to raise rates by 2 increments
LPL Financial chief economist Jeffrey Roach said price pressures are spreading beyond the energy sector
Companies mentioned：Mercer Advisors、LPL Financial、施羅德、Savvy Wealth、Potomac Fund Management、CFRA Research、Andersen Capital Management、Spartan Capital Securities、50 Park Investments、聯準會、《路透》
〈U.S. Stocks at the Open〉Rate-hike concerns weigh on markets! Major indexes mixed as dollar hits more than a one-year high
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
U.S. September CPI data came in above expectations, boosting bets on a Federal Reserve rate hike and putting pressure on stocks and bonds alike. Major U.S. stock indexes were mixed at the open, while the dollar hit a new high.
Facts
The U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 3.7% year over year and 0.6% month over month in September.
The 2-year Treasury yield climbed to between 4.91% and 4.92%.
Brent crude prices hovered around $106 a barrel.
Bank of America was fined $1.2 billion by the U.S. Treasury Department for violating anti-money-laundering rules.
ASML's third-quarter net sales totaled 11.66 billion euros.
U.S. mortgage rates climb to 7.5%, hurting homebuying demand; adjustable-rate mortgage demand hits 1-year high
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
U.S. mortgage rates climbed to 7.5%, driving homebuying demand down for 6 consecutive weeks and sharply reducing mortgage applications. Demand for adjustable-rate mortgages hit a 1-year high, while home sales also fell sharply. Experts expect transactions to decline significantly in the fourth quarter.
Facts
The rate on 30-year fixed-rate mortgage contracts rose 1 basis point to 7.50%, holding at its highest level since November 2023
The MBA purchase index fell 4%, declining for 6 consecutive weeks
Total mortgage applications fell 2.75% last week, down 37.5% from the same period last year
Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) accounted for 10.5% of total mortgage demand, a 1-year high
The number of contracts signed in September plunged 4% from the previous month, the biggest drop in more than 3 years
U.S. September CPI rises 3.7% year over year, slightly above expectations; stock-index futures dip in short-term trading
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that September CPI rose 3.7% year over year, above expectations, while core CPI also exceeded forecasts. The data jolted markets, lifting the dollar index and sending U.S. stock futures lower, while Treasury yields and gold prices fluctuated.
Facts
US consumer price index (CPI) rose 3.7% year over year in September
The market expected U.S. September CPI to rise 3.6% year over year
U.S. September core CPI rose 2.6% year over year
The dollar index briefly jumped about 30 points after the data was released
The U.S. 10-year Treasury yield currently stands at 5.189%
台塑新智能 showcased a high-C-rate battery for AIDC at Smart Energy Week 2026 and announced a partnership with 綠捷 to develop batteries for robot dogs, with deployment expected in 2027. It is also planning a 5GWh expansion in the second phase of its Changbin plant, targeting mass production in Q2 2028 to strengthen its AI computing infrastructure footprint.
Facts
台塑新智能 participated in Taiwan International Smart Energy Week 2026 under the theme “Energy Everywhere, Powering the AI Future.”
台塑新智能 and 中華汽車 subsidiary 綠捷 are partnering to develop batteries for robot dogs, with certification expected in 2027.
The second-phase plant of 台塑新智能 in Changbin is planned to add 5GWh of cell capacity, with mass production estimated to begin in Q2 2028.
The showcased 90V50Ah high-C-rate battery supports continuous discharge of up to 8C and has been deployed in the backup system of a major semiconductor company in Taichung.
台塑新智能 has received orders for more than 600 AGV batteries cumulatively, with deliveries underway.
台塑新智能’s liquid-cooled energy storage system has a capacity of 4.61MWh per cabinet, with cell temperature differences kept within 3°C.
台塑新智能’s battery recycling process can extract battery-grade lithium carbonate with 99.5% purity, while its microalgae oil has received ISCC EU certification.
NT dollar stablecoin “unstable”? 董瑞斌 admits local banks have little interest in issuing one, favoring the introduction of “this kind” of USDT
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
銀行公會 Chairman 董瑞斌 told reporters after the members’ meeting that local banks have extremely little interest in issuing a new Taiwan dollar stablecoin because of its lack of international circulation and high maintenance costs. They are instead inclined to introduce U.S. dollar stablecoins issued by major international banks to serve B2B cross-border payments. Meanwhile, lending against financial assets will be subject to each bank’s risk controls, and investment solicitation is strictly prohibited.
Facts
銀行公會 Chairman 董瑞斌 said local banks have extremely little interest in issuing a new Taiwan dollar stablecoin.
Local banks are inclined to introduce U.S. dollar stablecoins issued by major international financial institutions such as 摩根大通.
The development of a new Taiwan dollar stablecoin faces a lack of international circulation.
The cost of building and maintaining a blockchain system in-house is too high, with no economies of scale to speak of.
Original虛擬資產交易所B2C模式單筆進出額度約在新台幣200萬元以內。
The Financial Supervisory Commission has asked 銀行公會 to draft rules on lending against financial assets.
董瑞斌 is also chairman of Mega International Commercial Bank and a strong advocate of mini baseball.
Steelmakers worldwide stand firm on prices as demand gradually emerges; 中鴻 raises November domestic and December export prices
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
中鴻 (2014-TW) announced price increases for November domestic sales and December exports. Domestic hot-rolled, cold-rolled and galvanized steel prices will rise by NT$900 per metric ton. The move is supported by raw material costs, firm pricing by international steelmakers and the release of downstream demand. Supply-chain adjustments in China, Japan and South Korea, along with a recovery in global manufacturing, also provide a favorable backdrop.
Facts
中鴻 is raising November domestic hot-rolled, cold-rolled and galvanized steel prices by NT$900 per metric ton.
Daily crude steel output at China’s major steelmakers fell 2.1% from the previous period in late September.
Steel inventories at China’s major steelmakers fell sharply by 8.4% in late September.
Japan’s JFE Steel cut production by about 600,000 tonnes due to extreme weather.
Original標普全球九月全球製造業PMI升至53.0。
Companies mentioned：中鴻、中國鋼協、CISA、JFE Steel、POSCO、IMF、標普全球、S&P Global
施羅德 to launch its first active ETF, 00419A, on 11/2, offering an attractive NT$10 price to ride Taiwan’s AI boom
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
施羅德投信 is launching its first active ETF, the 施羅德AI科技台股主動式ETF (00419A), with subscriptions set to open on Nov. 2. The fund targets core companies in Taiwan’s AI supply chain and aims to meet investors’ needs for capital gains and cash flow.
Facts
施羅德投信 announced the launch of its first active ETF, the 施羅德AI科技台股主動式ETF (00419A-TW).
The subscription period for the 施羅德AI科技台股主動式ETF runs from Nov. 2 to Nov. 6.
The 施羅德AI科技台股主動式ETF has an issue price of NT$10 and a minimum subscription amount of NT$10,000.
The 施羅德AI科技台股主動式ETF pays quarterly distributions and incorporates an income equalization mechanism.
The 施羅德AI科技台股主動式ETF has 三 core investment areas: key components and semiconductors; infrastructure, power and thermal management; and emerging AI applications and hardware-software integration.
Copper stockpile built without public funds! Trump’s tariff threats work, but stockpiling cools
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Trump’s tariff threats triggered a wave of copper stockpiling, sending U.S. inventories surging, but the trend is cooling as arbitrage opportunities narrow.
Facts
The United States accumulated more than 1 million tonnes of copper inventory without using public funds.
OriginalComex認可的美國倉庫持有全球約七成可見銅庫存。
The arbitrage spread between U.S. copper prices and LME prices is now only about $310.
Comex inventories have surged nearly 750% since the end of February last year, exceeding 714,000 tonnes.
U.S. copper demand this year is about 1.6 million tonnes, while imports last year exceeded 1.62 million tonnes.
大量科技 earned nearly a full year’s earnings per share in the first half; September net profit reached NT$352 million, with monthly EPS of NT$3.82
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
大量科技 benefited from a surge in demand for AI drilling machines, posting record September 2026 revenue of NT$1.304 billion and after-tax net profit of NT$352 million. First-half profit rose more than twofold year over year, and the company was added to the MSCI Small Cap Index.
Facts
大量科技 posted September 2026 revenue of NT$1.304 billion, up 1.72 times year over year.
大量科技 posted September 2026 after-tax net profit of NT$352 million, with after-tax earnings per share (EPS) of NT$3.82.
大量科技’s gross margin in the first half of 2026 was 43.45%, up 6.43 percentage points year over year.
大量科技 posted after-tax net profit of NT$825 million in the first half of 2026, up 2.11 times year over year.
MSCI has added 大量科技 to its small-cap constituents.
〈Smart Energy Week〉台達電’s SST DC power solutions top 100 sets this year; SOFC pilot production expected by year-end
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
台達電 showcased its prefabricated SST DC power solution and SOFC at Energy Taiwan 2026. Shipments of the former have topped 100 sets, while the latter is expected to enter pilot production by year-end, helping sites improve energy resilience.
Facts
Samples and small-volume shipments of 台達電’s SST DC power solution have totaled more than 100 sets this year.
台達電’s solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is expected to enter pilot production by the end of this year.
台達電’s prefabricated SST DC power solution is designed specifically for AI factories and data centers.
台達電’s SST achieves an energy conversion efficiency of 98.5%.
台達電’s SOFC can achieve power generation efficiency of up to 85%.
台達電’s prefabricated SST DC power solution can cut on-site deployment time by 50%.
台達電 and 大台北瓦斯 are building the first Taiwan-made 550kW SOFC site.
〈Smart Energy Week〉熙特爾 enters the AIDC self-generation market, partnering with 漢吉 to build 10MW-class modular generator sets
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
熙特爾 (7740-TW) announced its entry into the AIDC self-generation market at Taiwan International Smart Energy Week 2026. Its subsidiary 辰熙精密 signed a strategic cooperation agreement with 漢吉, the Taiwan distributor for Volvo Penta, to jointly develop a 10MW-class modular self-generation system. It also unveiled three battery backup unit products for the first time.
Facts
辰熙精密 and 漢吉 signed a strategic cooperation agreement to jointly develop a 10MW-class modular self-generation system.
熙特爾 unveiled its 5.5kW, 12kW and 22kW battery backup units (BBUs) for the first time.
漢吉 secured a supply plan for 300 gas-fired generator engines in 2027, winning 120MW of generation capacity for Taiwan.
辰熙精密 and 漢吉 have launched local modular manufacturing of liquefied natural gas (LNG) power generation equipment.
The three parties will use 辰熙精密’s local manufacturing capabilities to integrate original Volvo Penta engines into 10MW-class containerized generator modules.
The power system showcased by 熙特爾 includes AC 480V alternating current, DC 800V high-voltage direct current and a 2N dual-path backup design.
〈Taiwan dollar〉Market cautious ahead of 台積電 earnings call; currency swings 1.5 jiao before edging up 1.2 fen
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The New Taiwan dollar against the U.S. dollar traded in a volatile range today (14) as the market awaited the U.S. CPI report and 台積電’s earnings call. It fluctuated by 1.5 jiao from its high to low before closing slightly higher by 1.2 fen at 32.073. Taiwan stocks surged early before narrowing their gains; foreign investors sold for a sixth consecutive session, while investment trusts bought against the trend.
Facts
The New Taiwan dollar opened at 32.060 per U.S. dollar today, edging up 2.5 cents.
The New Taiwan dollar fell to a low of 32.160 and rose to a high of 32.010 today, fluctuating by 1.5 jiao between its high and low.
The New Taiwan dollar closed at 32.073, edging up 1.2 cents, or about 0.04%.
Turnover in the Taipei foreign exchange market totaled US$2.224 billion, while turnover in the Yuanta foreign exchange market was US$1.1595 billion, bringing combined turnover in the 2 markets to US$3.3835 billion.
The U.S. dollar index was consolidating near 102 points.
Taiwan stocks rose 284.52 points at the close to 48625.83, with trading volume increasing to NT$928.624 billion.
The 3 major institutional investors were net sellers of a combined NT$15.397 billion in Taiwan stocks today. Foreign investors were net sellers of about NT$15.9 billion in a single day, extending their net selling streak to 六 consecutive trading days.
Investment trusts bucked the trend today, making net purchases of NT$16.111 billion.
Anthropic sounds another AI safety alarm! “AI worms” could spread autonomously; closed-door investor meeting focuses on financial data
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Anthropic is actively preparing for an IPO and held a closed-door meeting on the 14th, while warning that AI models could develop the ability to “self-replicate” and form “AI worms,” drawing investor attention to regulation and financial data.
Facts
Anthropic is expected to hold a closed-door meeting with investors on Wednesday (the 14th) to discuss IPO-related matters.
Anthropic researchers said small open-weight AI models could develop the ability to “self-replicate,” a phenomenon dubbed “AI worms.”
Anthropic had annualized revenue (ARR) of US$65 billion as of the end of July.
William Blair analyst Jason Ader believes concerns about AI will not disrupt its adoption, but could increase operating costs and complexity.
Anthropic's valuation could reach US$2 trillion.
Melius Research technology research head Ben Reitzes said Anthropic is the company best positioned to survive and thrive in an AI regulatory environment.
Companies mentioned：Anthropic、OpenAI、Center for Security and Emerging Technology、William Blair、Melius Research、Janus Henderson Investors、巴隆周刊、彭博、路透、美國證券交易委員會
CTBC Financial Holding's net profit for the first 9 months reached NT$63.2 billion; including NT$131.4 billion in FVOCI stock gains, it surpassed full-year records
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
中信金控 posted consolidated after-tax net profit of NT$63.237 billion for the first 9 months of 2026. Cumulative after-tax gains from the disposal of FVOCI stocks exceeded NT$131.4 billion, surpassing full-year profits in previous years. Its subsidiaries 中國信託商業銀行 and 台灣人壽保險公司 delivered steady growth, driving overall profit to a record high.
Facts
中信金控 posted after-tax net profit of NT$9.358 billion for September 2026
中信金控's cumulative consolidated after-tax net profit for the first 9 months was NT$63.237 billion
中信金控's cumulative after-tax gains from the disposal of FVOCI stocks for the first 9 months reached NT$131.462 billion
中國信託商業銀行 posted cumulative after-tax profit of NT$49.525 billion for the first 9 months, up 18% from a year earlier
台灣人壽保險公司's cumulative premiums from new policies reached NT$89.7 billion, up 81% from a year earlier
IEA: Global diesel supply squeeze could last into next year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The International Energy Agency (IEA) said in its October report that geopolitical conflicts could keep the global diesel supply squeeze in place through 2027. Although overall oil demand has slowed, dwindling inventory buffers have driven prices to record highs, putting the economy at risk of inflation and a hit to real incomes.
CHECKMATE JAPAN advances development of domestic AI data centers
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
CHECKMATE JAPAN has completed payment of construction cost contributions for AI data center development projects with planned power capacity exceeding 300MW, and is advancing development applications totaling more than 1GW in collaboration with domestic companies. It also aims to provide GPU rental services, participate as an OFFTEAKER, and support compliance with U.S. export control regulations in collaboration with CHECKMATE GR.
Facts
Planned power capacity exceeding 300MW
More than 1GW (1,000MW) in total
Capital: 5,000,000 yen
Companies mentioned：CHECKMATE JAPAN株式会社、Checkmate Japan株式会社、CHECKMATE Government Relations、NVIDIA
大学パワーランキング, operated by ポップコーン株式会社, has released a ranking by university attended, based on data on successful candidates in the 2026 fiscal year National Public Service Examination (Comprehensive Service) published by 人事院. The University of Tokyo ranked first with 458 people, a sharp increase from the previous fiscal year.
Formlabs unveils the most affordable professional resin 3D printer ever
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Formlabs has launched its professional resin 3D printer, the Form Studio 1, starting at $769, bringing lower prices and safe indoor use with UL GREENGUARD Gold certification. It has also introduced 6 skin-safe Alpha resins and released a post-processing device and an app.
Facts
Starting at $769
Starting at $34.99 per 1L
Oct. 13, 2026
6mW/cm² of light
35 µm pixels
Completed in under 2 hours
98% print success rate
Reduced to below 220 µg/m³
Starting at $38.99 per 1L
Skin contact for over 30 days)
Shipping begins Nov. 16, 2026
Nov. 30, 2026
More than 3 times the elongation at break
In as little as 2 days
Annual revenue exceeds $250 million
More than 500 million parts
More than 45 materials
2024
Companies mentioned：Formlabs株式会社、Formlabs、Fast Company
Toward revitalizing governance amid turmoil and restoring human rights that have been overlooked: “How to Address ‘Business and Human Rights,’ ESG, Governance and More in Audits” (Lecturer: Tomonori Tomura), event on Feb. 24, 2027【日本マネジメント総合研究所合同会社】
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
日本マネジメント総合研究所合同会社 Chairman Tomonori Tomura is scheduled to speak at an online seminar hosted by （一社）日本経営協会 on Feb. 24, 2027.