Brother Guarantees Brother’s Loan, Pays Back NT$10 Million and Says “You Don’t Have to Repay Me”—Will He Face Gift Tax? Finance Ministry Explains Key Criteria
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Ministry of Finance clarified that when a guarantor repays a debt and waives the right to seek reimbursement without compensation, the act is considered a gift and is subject to gift tax. For example, on a repayment of NT$10 million, after deducting the NT$2.44 million exemption, NT$756,000 in tax would be due. Exceptions apply if the guarantor retains the right to seek reimbursement or the principal debtor is bankrupt.
Facts
If a guarantor repays a debt on behalf of the principal debtor and then waives the right to seek reimbursement without compensation, the act is legally treated as a gift.
The annual gift tax exemption in 2026 is NT$2.44 million, and a 10% tax rate applies to net gifts of NT$28.11 million or less.
Gift tax is generally paid by the donor, meaning the guarantor who waives the right to seek reimbursement must pay the tax.
When the principal debtor is declared bankrupt, the guarantor’s repayment is not considered a gift.
If the total value of gifts exceeds the exemption, a tax return must be filed within 30 days of the gift that pushes the total above the exemption.
Zhao Lusi and Yu Shuxin Both Lose Out! TOP10 Sweetest Female Stars in Chinese Dramas: The Big-Eyed Champion’s Captivating Dimples Make Every Smile Melt Your Heart
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Drawing on discussions across social media platforms, this article selects the TOP10 female stars with the sweetest appeal in Chinese dramas. Zhao Jinmai, Lu Yuxiao, Tan Songyun and others made the list for their fresh looks and natural acting, each showcasing a different kind of youthful charm.
Facts
This article rounds up the TOP10 female stars with the sweetest appeal in Chinese dramas, drawing on platforms including Weibo, Douban, PTT and Dcard.
Zhao Jinmai shows off a fresh, natural youthful charm as Yin Guo, a nine-ball player, in “Amidst a Snowstorm of Love.”
Lu Yuxiao plays Lin Xi in “Time and Him Are Just Right,” bringing a fresh, gentle, lively and endearing quality to the role.
Tan Songyun plays Geng Geng in “With You,” portraying a young school romance with her baby face and natural acting.
Xu Mengjie plays Ding Xian in “The Secret of the Dark Box” and is known for her sweet smile and the nickname “Little Rainbow.”
Shen Yue rose to fame starring in “A Love So Beautiful,” playing Chen Xiaoxi with the fresh appeal of a girl-next-door in a Japanese drama.
Zhang Miaoyi plays Su Zaizai in “When I Fly Towards You” and has been hailed as “a born campus sweetheart.”
Zhang Ruonan’s popularity surged with “The First Frost,” in which she plays Wen Yifan with a healing smile and a first-love aura.
Google officially launched Gemini 4 Argon globally on the 13th, making it available to developers, businesses and eligible subscribers.
Gemini 4 Argon ranked first in the Vals Index with a score of 68.90%, ahead of Claude Sonnet 5.5 and Opus 5.5.
Independent evaluator Artificial Analysis reported that Argon scored 53 on the Intelligence Index in High reasoning mode, tying GPT-6 Astra in Max mode.
Google’s official pricing shows that Argon’s standard API currently costs $2 per million input tokens and $10 per million output tokens.
The Chrome team used Argon to cut an architectural overhaul that would normally take months down to weeks.
After Google’s internal engineering teams used Argon through Antigravity, the number of code submissions by AI agents increased by more than 35%.
At Gemini 4 Argon’s introductory price, each test task costs about $1.99, less than Astra’s $3.26.
“I’m Very Grateful to Ko Wen-je’s Team”: Chiang Wan-an Acknowledges 2 Policies Built on His Predecessor’s Work: City Governance Is a Relay
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an praised the foundations laid by former mayor Ko Wen-je and publicly pledged to continue building social housing during an interview with Taiwan People’s Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang on the evening of the 15th.
Facts
In an interview on a YouTube program hosted by Taiwan People’s Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang, Chiang Wan-an volunteered praise for projects undertaken during former mayor Ko Wen-je’s term.
Chiang Wan-an said he was very grateful to the team led by Mayor Ko, noting that many policies have continued.
The prenatal ride service policy was built on the Taipei Pass system established during Ko Wen-je’s term.
The Happy Housing policy builds on the results of Ko Wen-je’s vigorous efforts to promote social housing construction.
Happy Housing gives priority to newlyweds and small families with children under 6.
Chiang Wan-an publicly pledged on the program that he would definitely continue building social housing.
Huang Kuo-chang reminded Chiang Wan-an that he would keep an eye on the program to see whether he fulfills his social housing pledge.
Jensen Huang said that walking through central Beijing immediately drew a crowd, and that the scene “turned completely chaotic.”
Jensen Huang joked that restaurants he visits move fast, turning him into an online promotional sign in about half an hour.
On May 15 this year, Jensen Huang was seen outside Fangzhuanchang No. 69 Zhajiang Noodles in Beijing’s Nanluoguxiang, eating noodles while holding a bowl.
The day after Jensen Huang’s visit, the restaurant put up a promotion for the “same set meal Jensen Huang checked in for,” while group-buying platforms also featured several products labeled “the same item as the leather-jacketed god of war.”
In a post on the 15th, Jolin Chia responded that she had not put on her jacket properly because she followed her husband’s advice and menopause had made her body temperature uncomfortable.
Lawmaker Lai Hui-yuan later acknowledged that her wording was inappropriate, saying she deeply regretted making Jolin Chia and the public uncomfortable and promising to reflect seriously.
Lai Hui-yuan initially said in a statement that her reminder was based on legislative decorum and was not intended to criticize Jolin Chia’s personal style, taste or appearance.
In her response, Jolin Chia said she asked her husband before leaving home whether she looked pretty that day. He told her to put on her jacket, so she decided not to wear it.
Huang Kuo-chang’s Note Stayed With Chiang Wan-an for 9 Years; He Reveals the “Collusion” Story: Note’s Contents Remain Secret for Now
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an appeared in an interview with Taiwan People’s Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang and revealed that he had kept a note from their cooperation in blocking amendments to the Labor Standards Act 9 years ago, showcasing a pragmatic spirit of cross-party cooperation.
Facts
Chiang Wan-an appeared on the evening of the 15th on “People Have a Say 4: Straight Questions on Big Issues,” a YouTube program hosted by Huang Kuo-chang.
Chiang Wan-an revealed that Huang Kuo-chang passed him a note during their 2017 effort to block amendments to the Labor Standards Act, and that he still has it.
Huang Kuo-chang recalled that green-leaning media criticized him at the time for passing the note, accusing him of “colluding with Chiang Wan-an.”
Huang Kuo-chang was then with the New Power Party and Chiang Wan-an with the Kuomintang. Though they had different political positions, they shared the same view on stopping the amendments.
At the end of the interview, Huang Kuo-chang used a hard-sell approach to get Chiang Wan-an to sign a selfie commemorating their first joint livestream.
Made a Fortune After Foolishly Buying “These 2 Stocks” After Turning 48! Finance Writer Reveals the Outcome: Bought Several Houses and Achieved Financial Freedom
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A financial writer analyzes the case of a 48-year-old who achieved financial freedom and bought several properties by purchasing two specific investments.
Former Green Camp Aide “Tugou Mei” Dropped From Shows; Huang Shih-hsiu Reveals Why Her Account Disappeared: Health Ministry Regulations Used to Block Her
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Huang Shih-hsiu said that former Green Camp aide “Tugou Mei” was dropped from shows and had her account blocked, alleging that she was targeted using regulations from the Ministry of Health and Welfare.
“A Loss Is a Loss!” Huang Kuo-chang Throws His Full Support Behind Lee Chuan-chuan, Reveals Joint Campaign Headquarters Will Also Serve as a Supporters’ Club
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
People's Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang announced during an interview with Chiang Wan-an on the evening of the 15th that, after losing to Lee Chuan in the New Taipei mayoral primary, he would give Lee his full support. He said the joint campaign headquarters of People's Party councilors had been converted into a Lee Chuan support group and had put up Lee's photo, in hopes that blue-white cooperation would win the elections in Taipei and New Taipei.
Facts
People's Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang appeared on the YouTube program 《民眾有本4 直球問大事》 on the evening of the 15th to interview Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an.
Huang Kuo-chang lost after competing against KMT candidate Lee Chuan in the New Taipei mayoral primary and said he would give Lee his full support.
The People's Party councilors' joint campaign headquarters at the live-streaming site is also being used as a support group for Lee Chuan.
Huang Kuo-chang put up a photo of Lee Chuan inside the joint campaign headquarters.
Chiang Wan-an and Huang Kuo-chang held their first joint livestream, discussing cross-party cooperation and the elections in Taipei and New Taipei.
The KMT and the People's Party currently maintain close cooperation in the legislature.
Huang Kuo-chang urged People's Party supporters to back Lee Chuan to uphold Taiwan's values.
“瑤池金母” boldly buys the dip! As Taiwan stocks plunge, she doesn't sell a single lot of 00981A and instead adds more than NT$1 billion to “these 3 stocks”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taiwan stocks plunged, and foreign investors set a record for their largest-ever net selling. 00981A, managed by fund manager 瑤池金母, went against the trend and added more than NT$1 billion in 金像電, 台燿 and 欣興, drawing attention.
Facts
Taiwan stocks plunged 1655 points today, with the index closing at 46969 points.
Original外資賣超3025.55億元，創下歷史最大單日賣超紀錄。
00981A, managed by fund manager Chen Chuan-yao, went against the trend and added 金像電, 台燿 and 欣興, buying a total of NT$1.014 billion worth.
00981A fell NT$1.79 at the close today, a drop of 5.74%, to close at NT$29.40.
00981A added 385 lots of 金像電, raising its portfolio weighting to 2.61%.
Audiences weep uncontrollably! Wu Nien-jen's 《人間條件三》 returns to the stage, moving audiences with its November run at 衛武營
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
After a successful run in Taipei, 《人間條件三》, a work by 綠光劇團 and Wu Nien-jen, is set to head south to 高雄衛武營 in November 2026, recreating the everyday lives and emotions of ordinary people in Minguo year 50.
Facts
綠光劇團's 《人間條件三》 will be performed at the Opera House of the National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts, 高雄衛武營, from November 13 to 15, 2026.
《人間條件三》 was written and directed by Wu Nien-jen and is set in the fiftieth year of the Republic of China.
Since its premiere in 2007, 《人間條件三》 has been performed more than 63 times and attracted over 7萬5千 audience members.
The cast of 《人間條件三》 includes Lin Mei-hsiu, Lo Pei-an, Ko I-cheng, Hsieh Ming-yu and Lin Yu-hsuan.
Upcoming performances of 《人間條件三》 include a December 2026 engagement at Taichung Zhongshan Hall and a January 2027 engagement at Taipei City Stage.
No need to haul away orchard waste! Kaohsiung agriculture bureau promotes mechanized field services, turning branches into natural fertilizer on-site
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 高雄市政府農業局 held a demonstration and observation event in Liugui on the 14th to promote mechanized services for fruit orchards. A live demonstration showed discarded wax apple branches being shredded on-site into organic fertilizer, addressing farmers' labor shortages during orchard cleanup and avoiding the risk of penalties for illegal burning.
Facts
The 高雄市政府農業局 held a wax apple branch-shredding demonstration and observation event in Liugui on the 14th.
The head of 果樹機械代耕團 is chairperson Lu Ting-nan.
Open-air burning of branches causes air pollution and can result in fines from the Environmental Protection Bureau.
The mechanized field service covers crops including wax apples, lychees, guavas, jujubes and bamboo.
The contact for 果樹機械代耕團 is Mr. Lu, at 0937-222-2224.
Fiscal allocation law penalizes Kaohsiung despite its successful investment drive! Lin Chih-hung calls for 台積電 headquarters to move south
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Kaohsiung City Councilor Lin Chih-hung questioned whether revisions to the Fiscal Allocation Act unfairly disadvantage Kaohsiung's finances, and urged the city government to seek the relocation of 台積電's headquarters to the south to improve the city's fiscal position.
Facts
Because of revisions to the Fiscal Allocation Act, Kaohsiung has had the lowest increase in centrally allocated tax revenue among the six special municipalities for two consecutive years, suffering actual losses of more than NT$40 billion.
The new Fiscal Allocation Act sets the weighting for local business turnover over the most recent three years at 30%, while the population indicator accounts for 45%.
Taipei is projected to receive NT$114.9 billion in centrally allocated funds in 2026, while Kaohsiung is projected to receive NT$75.78 billion.
Original台積電楠梓五座晶圓廠全面運轉後，年產值上看2兆364億元。
台積電's Baipu Industrial Park is expected to generate about NT$300 billion in output value and more than 4000 jobs annually.
Hsu Wan-chun, an electrical engineering student at 義守大學, received the 中國工程師學會 115年度 Outstanding Engineering Student Scholarship, becoming the school's third recipient in its history. The highly competitive award evaluates professional ability, accomplishments and leadership.
Facts
Hsu Wan-chun, a student in 義守大學's Department of Electrical Engineering, was selected for the 中國工程師學會 115年度 Outstanding Engineering Student Scholarship.
Hsu Wan-chun is the third student in 義守大學's history to receive the Outstanding Engineering Student Scholarship.
Hsu Wan-chun received the 工業技術研究院 Power Grid Talent Development Alliance Scholarship and a grant under the 國家科學及技術委員會's undergraduate student research program.
Hsu Wan-chun has participated in the Wanrun Innovation and Creativity Competition, the Green Ideas International Invention and Design Competition, and the National Electronic Design Creativity Competition.
Xiao Ying, Mei-chin, Chi-mai and “隆貓” appear together! Lai Jui-lung to launch campaign headquarters on 10/17, assembling the strongest “cat lovers' alliance”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Lai Jui-lung announced that his campaign headquarters launch rally will be held on October 17. He invited former President Tsai Ing-wen, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, former premier Hsieh Chang-ting and incumbent Mayor Chen Chi-mai to campaign together, showcasing unity in the pan-Green camp and advancing the vision of a “southern rise.”
Facts
Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Lai Jui-lung will hold a campaign headquarters opening rally on Oct. 17.
Former President Tsai Ing-wen and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim will make a rare joint appearance to campaign for Lai Jui-lung.
Former Premier Hsieh Chang-ting and incumbent Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai will also attend to support Lai Jui-lung.
Lai Jui-lung's campaign headquarters is located at 250 Zengzi Road in Zuoying District.
Lai Jui-lung has proposed the municipal goal of “Southern Rise, Moving Toward the World.”
A fusion of technology and art! 豪華朗機工's 《微光之間》 opens to a stunning reception at Kaohsiung's TTXC cultural technology exhibition
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The 2026 TTXC INNOVATIONS cultural technology innovation market exhibition opened in Kaohsiung on the 13th. Organized by TAICCA, it focuses on AI and the attention economy. The opening-day forum explored XR and IP commercialization, while 豪華朗機工 presented the opening performance, showcasing Taiwan's cultural technology capabilities.
Facts
The 2026 TTXC INNOVATIONS cultural technology innovation market exhibition opened on the 13th at Warehouse B4 in Kaohsiung's Pier-2 Art Center.
The exhibition's theme is “Pay Attention: Reshaping AI．The Value of Attention,” and it brings together 16 Taiwanese teams.
TAICCA Chair Wang Shih-ssu said several works already have mature business models and the potential for overseas touring exhibitions.
The opening special performance, 《微光之間》, was presented by 豪華朗機工 and DJ Hybrid Asian.
The exhibition held a pitching session on the 14th, arranging meetings between 16 teams and 22 domestic and international companies.
Companies mentioned：文化內容策進院、時藝多媒體、故事工場文創、互動細胞、新媒體暨影視音發展協會、富邦文教基金會、驚喜製造、宏達國際電子、Epic Games、現代汽車集團、日本 NHK
Kaohsiung's “idea king” comes up with another creative idea! Chang I-li grows “隆捲風 wings,” hoping Kaohsiung will ride the wind and soar
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Chang I-li, a candidate for city council in Zuoying and Nanzih, designed “隆捲風 wings” and small cheering lights to support Lai Jui-lung's municipal agenda and concert economy policy, and urged people to vote on November 28.
Facts
Chang I-li transformed Lai Jui-lung's 隆捲風 streamer into “隆捲風 wings.”
“隆捲風 wings” were sewn by a tailor at Longhua Market.
Chang I-li supports Lai Jui-lung's “Concert Economy 3.0” policy.
Kaohsiung Arena and the World Games Stadium are located in Zuoying District.
Chang I-li urged residents to vote on November 28.
Young people are leaving, and housing prices are too high! KMT candidate Ko Chih-en speaks at Sun Yat-sen University, proposes industrial upgrading and affordable housing solutions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
KMT Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Ko Chih-en presented policy proposals on youth employment, housing and transportation at a youth forum at Sun Yat-sen University on the 14th. They included upgrading cultural industries, providing affordable housing and improving resource allocation in the former county areas.
Facts
Ko Chih-en said Kaohsiung's young labor force has shrunk by about 100,000 over the past ten years.
Ko Chih-en has 26 years of teaching experience.
Ko Chih-en proposed an “affordable housing” policy to help families who cannot afford homes on the regular market.
Ko Chih-en proposed the “Kaohsiung Youth International Dream-Building Program” to lower the financial barriers for young people seeking overseas exchange opportunities.
Ko Chih-en pledged to increase the share of funding for construction in the former county areas to address uneven development.
Japan’s new graduates have a 10.1% resignation rate within 1 year; family opposition affects some decisions to stay or leave
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Japan’s 2024 rate of new graduates leaving their jobs within 1 year reached 10.1%, partly because of opposition from family members. A 住宅維修公司 conducted more than 600 home visits to help new employees’ families understand their work, successfully lowering the company’s resignation rate from 10% to 5%.
Agriculture minister embroiled in scandal; Japanese PM Takaichi approves resignation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Japanese Agriculture Minister Yana Kazuo resigned to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi over scandals involving budget cuts and alleged violations of the Public Offices Election Act, and his resignation was accepted. Liberal Democratic Party lawmaker Arata Takebe has taken over the post.
Costa Rica opens large prison modeled on El Salvador’s fight against organized crime
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Costa Rica opened CACCO, the country’s largest and highest-security prison, with capacity for 5100 people. It aims to emulate El Salvador’s fight against organized crime and reassert control over the prison system.
Facts
Located 25 kilometers from the capital, San José
Capacity for 5100 people
Original約為目前在監人數的2成
The country’s 2023 homicide total hit a record high of 905
The first group of prisoners is expected to be transferred to the facility by the end of October
Fernandez will visit in person on Friday (the 16th)
Protests in Albania turn violent; demonstrators throw firebombs, government buildings set ablaze
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Thousands of students in Albania protested over dissatisfaction with the education environment, corruption and job prospects, demanding Prime Minister Rama’s resignation. Clashes escalated on the 13th, as demonstrators threw firebombs and set government offices and banks ablaze. Police used tear gas and water cannons to crack down. As of the 14th, at least 29 people had been injured and 35 arrested. The interior minister accused outside forces of intervening. The Rama government has promoted investment and development, but repeated corruption scandals have fueled public anger.
Facts
At least 29 people were injured and received treatment
Heavy rain wreaks havoc in Brazil’s São Paulo, severely disrupting city traffic
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Heavy rain hit São Paulo, Brazil, and Istanbul, Turkey, causing landslides and floods that inundated streets and tunnels, paralyzing traffic, trapping people and leaving 2 dead. Authorities issued alerts and suspended classes.
Facts
Rescue workers received more than 1200 calls for help overnight
School roof suddenly collapses in Pakistan; 28 dead and more than 30 injured
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
A school roof suddenly collapsed in the northern Pakistani city of Peshawar, killing at least 28 people and injuring more than 30. Police said about 110 students were in 3 classrooms at the time. The preliminary suspicion is that the building’s structure was weak and substandard materials had been used for the roof.
New Yalu River Bridge linking China and North Korea opens after 12-year delay
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
The New Yalu River Bridge linking Dandong in China with Sinuiju in North Korea officially opened on the 15th after a 12-year delay. The 3-kilometer bridge, costing RMB 2.22 billion, was funded and built by China. The move aims to promote bilateral trade and economic exchanges and reflects North Korea’s diplomatic strategy of seeking a balance between China and Russia.
Facts
3 kilometers long
Officially opened on the 15th
Cost RMB 2.22 billion
More than NT$10.7 billion
Originally scheduled to open in 2014
More than 70% of official trade
The old bridge, built in 1937
last year (2025)
Exports reached US$2.3 billion
A 6-year high
Up 25% year on year
Below the level before the UN tightened sanctions in 2017
First hearing in 2022 Nord Stream pipeline blast case; Ukrainian suspect says he was carrying out a legitimate mission
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
The 2022 Nord Stream pipeline blast case went to trial in Hamburg, Germany, where Ukrainian defendant Kuznetsov said he had been carrying out a military mission. Prosecutors accused him of war crimes for attacking civilian infrastructure, while his defense lawyer argued that he was bound by confidentiality and loyalty to his country. The case has drawn attention because of its connection to the Russia-Ukraine war and Germany’s position on aid to Ukraine.
Indonesian technicians come to Taiwan under “contract fulfillment” arrangement; contract changes leave them earning just 100 per hour
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
After arriving in Taiwan, large numbers of Indonesian workers with specialized skills such as welding had their contracts changed by manpower agencies, with monthly salaries of NT$50,000 cut to hourly wages of 100 for labor on green energy projects, prompting protests. 勞動部 statistics show a sharp rise in these contract-fulfillment workers. Scholars and human rights groups criticized the government for failing to conduct proper inspections, and 勞動部 pledged to amend regulations and investigate in accordance with the law.
A Kaohsiung borough chief candidate was sentenced for a child abuse case and violating firearms laws more than 20 years ago. After the case was discovered, the election commission notified the candidate that they were no longer eligible to run, sparking a dispute over the timing of the notice and losses incurred. Separately, a candidate in Yancheng District suspected of vote-buying was released on bail.
TV debate for Taipei mayoral race set for noon on the 31st of this month
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an reiterated his support for relocating Songshan Airport at an Executive Yuan meeting and presented a 2023 official document as evidence. Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng and Taichung Deputy Mayor Cheng Chao-hsin also voiced support. Premier Cho Jung-tai asked for the reasons behind the change in position. The Ministry of Health and Welfare stressed the airport’s importance for medical evacuations to outlying islands, while the Civil Aeronautics Administration said relocation would take about 20 years and that the Taipei City Government had previously respected central government plans. Democratic Progressive Party candidate Shen Po-yang criticized the city government for failing to discuss supporting measures.
Navy anti-submarine drills in late October; submarine “Hai Lung” to demonstrate combat capability
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
A Chinese aircraft carrier group led by the Liaoning sailed to the western Pacific for exercises. 國防部 detected Chinese aircraft and ships operating around Taiwan and remained on high alert. The domestically built Hai Kun submarine is continuing tests, while Hai Lung will take part in the Hai Chiang exercise in late October to demonstrate its combat capability. The navy plans to procure underwater mobile targets to strengthen its anti-submarine capabilities.
Facts
In waters about 250 kilometers south of Ishigaki Island
Police officer supplied drugs to informant and drove under the influence to work; sentenced and dismissed by Taichung District Court
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
A prosecutor surnamed Liu with the Taipei District Prosecutors Office received deferred prosecution after drug use and resigned while suspended. A squad leader surnamed Chen with Taichung City’s Second Precinct was sentenced by the Taichung District Court for supplying drugs to an informant and driving under the influence to work, and was dismissed without a suspended sentence. The Ministry of Justice stressed zero tolerance for law enforcement personnel involved in drugs.
Merchant ships repeatedly attacked and sunk in the Middle East, raising alarm over safety in the Strait of Hormuz
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
Merchant ships were repeatedly attacked and sunk in the Strait of Hormuz in the Middle East, prompting alerts over navigational safety. The Singapore-flagged freighter GFS Pride and the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged merchant ship Cape Dao were involved in separate incidents, reducing Middle Eastern oil exports and driving up oil prices. Meanwhile, 路透社 reported that the Trump administration was considering easing sanctions on the “shadow fleets” of Russia, Iran and Venezuela, sparking controversy.
Facts
All 21 crew members evacuated safely
Caused the death of 1 Indian crew member
Was struck by an unidentified flying object on Sept. 23
AI supply chain companies form “Taiwan Excellence Pavilion,” make debut at Japan advanced technology expo
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion made its debut at a Japan advanced technology expo, bringing together 13 companies to showcase AI applications. Areas on display included apparel design, one-stop hardware solutions and power protection components, highlighting the ability of Taiwan’s manufacturers to combine AI with efforts to expand into overseas markets.
Workplace accident at Matsu’s Meng’ao Port: 3 workers suspected of inhaling gas, found unconscious and later died
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 公視新聞
A workplace accident occurred at Matsu’s Meng’ao Port, where 3 workers were suspected of losing consciousness after inhaling a high concentration of carbon monoxide and later died in hospital. A preliminary investigation by the Lienchiang County Government found that 2 people lost consciousness first, and the third also collapsed while attempting a rescue. The cause of the accident is pending further forensic investigation.
South Korean stocks ravaged, Taiwan stocks begin to buckle: “Deleveraging selling pressure” in Asian tech stocks triggers widespread panic
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
A sell-off in Asian tech stocks sparked panic, with South Korea’s KOSPI plunging 7.6% in a single day and falling below support, while oversold conditions reached a multiyear extreme. Taiwan stocks’ resilience began to waver amid crowded bullish AI positions and capital spending concerns, as markets worried that selling pressure could spread to U.S. semiconductor stocks and other markets.
Facts
South Korea’s Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) fell 7.6% in a single day, breaking below its long-term support trend line.
KOSPI’s oversold level reached its most extreme since October 2022.
The performance gap between KOSPI and the U.S. Philadelphia Semiconductor Index (SOX) widened to an extreme level.
Bullish positions in AI-related trades in Taiwan stocks are at a historic high.
Markets fear that doubts over the sustainability of AI capital spending could lead to the spread of deleveraging selling pressure.
CoreWeave hit by a rout in stocks and bonds! Jensen Huang steps up in support: No bailout needed from 輝達
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
輝達 CEO Jensen Huang came out in support of financially troubled customer CoreWeave, saying its capabilities had improved and it did not need a bailout, in an effort to reassure markets rattled by a rout in its stocks and bonds.
Facts
Jensen Huang said CoreWeave’s capabilities continue to improve and its cost of funding is falling, so it does not need a bailout from 輝達.
Companies mentioned：CoreWeave、輝達、彭博、ICE Data Services
At least 10 calls a day chasing capacity! AI giants vie for 台積電, potentially limiting expansion plans
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
台積電 North America CEO Darrell told CNBC that he receives at least 10 calls a day asking about capacity, reflecting fierce competition among AI giants for wafer capacity. 台積電’s fourth-quarter revenue is expected to rise 58% year over year, but tight supply could threaten AI industry expansion plans.
Facts
台積電 North America CEO Darrell receives at least 10 calls a day asking about wafer capacity
台積電 expects fourth-quarter revenue to rise 58% year over year, with profit hitting a record for the sixth consecutive quarter
U.S. hyperscalers’ capital spending this year is forecast to far exceed $700 billion
台積電 had 534 customers in 2025, with its 10 largest customers accounting for 78% of net revenue
台積電 adds $100 billion in investment in Arizona, bringing total commitments to $265 billion
Zhang Xiaoqiang is a key figure in customers’ efforts to secure capacity from 台積電
Chip stocks shed $1 trillion, but retail investors aren’t afraid: They snap up 3x leveraged ETFs to bet on a rebound
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Chip stocks lost $1 trillion in market value, but retail investors bought leveraged ETFs against the trend, putting SOXL on track for record weekly inflows, while SMH also attracted substantial funds.
Facts
VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH-US), with $72 billion in assets, attracted more than $430 million in inflows over the past 3 trading days.
Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bull 3X ETF (SOXL-US), with $19 billion in assets, plunged nearly 21% this week.
The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index fell 12% over the past 6 trading days, wiping out about $1 trillion in market value.
SMH has risen 57% so far in 2026, while SOXL has surged 163%.
Data compiled by Bloomberg showed that SMH posted its best week since early September.
CoreWeave bond rout sounds alarm! AI financing risks rise as U.S. high-yield bond ETF turns negative for the year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
A sharp drop in CoreWeave bonds and shares has raised concerns about AI financing risks and excessive corporate borrowing. Stress in the high-yield bond market is mounting, with CCC-rated spreads widening, reflecting investor dissatisfaction with inadequate compensation for the risks posed by vulnerable borrowers.
Facts
CoreWeave bonds fell to about $0.81 per $1 of face value, with yields above 15%.
CoreWeave shares fell 15.5% on Wednesday.
CCC-rated bond spreads widened on Tuesday to 12.67 percentage points above U.S. Treasury yields.
Credit default swaps (CDS) protecting against a CoreWeave debt default over the next 5 years rose to nearly 881 basis points.
The SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF (JNK-US) has posted a year-to-date total return decline of more than 0.2%.
The 10-year Treasury yield briefly touched 5.19%.
標普全球評級 assigned CoreWeave a credit rating in the B category.
Companies mentioned：CoreWeave、Osterweis Capital Management、Hightower Advisors、標普全球評級、Edward Jones、Thrivent、Orion Advisor Solutions、State Street SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF
iPhone Duo preorders countdown! 京東 reservations top 2 million as proxy-buying fees soar to 888 yuan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
蘋果’s first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, is set to go on sale on October 16, and reservations on 京東 have topped 2 million. The mainland China version starts at 15,999 yuan, but strong demand has driven proxy-buying fees sky-high and prices on secondhand platforms sharply higher, signaling high consumer expectations and a buying frenzy for the new product.
Facts
Preorders for the iPhone Duo will officially open at 8 p.m. on October 16, with the phone going on sale on October 23.
Reservations for the iPhone Duo on 京東 have exceeded 2 million.
The mainland China version of the iPhone Duo starts at 15,999 yuan.
The market presale price of the white 256GB iPhone Duo on 得物App rose from 19,794 yuan on October 13 to 22,947 yuan.
The market presale price of the black 512GB iPhone Duo on 得物App rose from 22,000 yuan to 27,998 yuan.
Several dealers and scalpers forecast markups of 3,000 to 5,000 yuan on the iPhone Duo’s launch day.
Is a 5.25% Treasury yield high? BNY CEO: Not unusual historically, as rates return to normal
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Vince, CEO of 紐約梅隆銀行 (BNY Mellon), said the 10-year Treasury yield rising to around 5.25% reflects the normalization of the yield curve, not an anomaly. The bank benefited from higher interest income driven by elevated rates and stronger markets. Third-quarter net income rose 20% year over year to $1.61 billion, while assets also expanded.
Facts
紐約梅隆銀行’s third-quarter net income attributable to common shareholders rose 20% year over year to $1.61 billion.
The 10-year Treasury yield reached around 5.25% this year, marking its largest third-quarter increase since 1994.
紐約梅隆銀行’s third-quarter net interest income accounted for about 25% of total revenue.
Assets under custody and administration at 紐約梅隆銀行 rose 10% year over year to $63.4 trillion.
CEO Vince said a 5.25% yield on 10-year U.S. Treasuries is not unusual by historical standards.
CoreWeave’s “unlimited borrowing” claim spooks markets; credit risk hits a record high, with five-year default probability topping 60%
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
AI cloud computing giant CoreWeave has raised concerns about credit risk with its expanded borrowing plans. Its five-year CDS spread hit a record high, reflecting a default probability of more than 60%. Co-founder Brannin McBee said the goal was to obtain an investment-grade rating to secure unlimited funding, sending high-yield bond prices tumbling and weighing on U.S. credit markets and stocks at the open.
Facts
CoreWeave’s five-year credit default swap (CDS) spread hit a record high of 1,194.5 basis points.
Market pricing reflects a greater than 60% probability that CoreWeave will default over the next five years.
The yield on CoreWeave’s 9% coupon bonds maturing in 2031 rose to 15.6%.
The yield on CoreWeave’s 9.75% coupon bonds maturing in 2031 rose to 16.2%.
CoreWeave co-founder Brannin McBee said the company aims to obtain an investment-grade credit rating.
U.S. producer prices in September posted their fastest rise in more than four years.
Original標普道瓊指數公司的CDX投資等級指數一度上升1.75個基點至62.3。
Companies mentioned：CoreWeave、ICE Data Services、標普道瓊指數公司
U.S. pushes for factory construction; Reuters: SK海力士 sets China-related conditions
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
According to Reuters, SK海力士 is negotiating with the U.S. government, seeking approval to export more equipment to its Dalian plant in China to expand capacity, in exchange for U.S. support for a new NAND factory in the United States. Washington has tightened export restrictions and, in principle, does not approve equipment exports for capacity expansion.
Facts
Through its U.S. subsidiary Solidigm, SK海力士 hopes to obtain permission to export more equipment to its Dalian plant in China.
Last year, the U.S. Commerce Department revoked special authorizations granted to SK海力士 and 三星電子, and in principle does not approve equipment exports for capacity expansion or technology upgrades.
The U.S. issued SK海力士 a 2026 annual permit for its Dalian plant, with limits on equipment quantities, but has not yet issued the corresponding 2027 permit.
Expanding production at its China plant could help Solidigm raise funds for construction in the United States and maintain supply before the new U.S. plant begins production.
When will the Fed hike rates next? Brokerages mostly bet on December; BofA says action could come as soon as October
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
U.S. September CPI and PPI data showed inflation heating up, reinforcing expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates high. Most brokerages forecast a 1 quarter-point rate hike by the Fed in December, while Bank of America expects 1 quarter-point hike each in October and December, for a total of 50 basis points.
Facts
The U.S. producer price index (PPI) rose 1.3% month over month and 6.3% year over year in September, both above market expectations.
12 groups of institutions, including Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup, forecast a 1 quarter-point Fed rate hike in December.
Bank of America expects the Fed to raise rates by 1 quarter-point in both October and December, for a total of 50 basis points.
The CME FedWatch tool shows an 89.5% probability of a rate hike in December.
The Fed’s next policy meeting is scheduled for Oct. 27-28.
NotebookCheck has revealed iPhone Duo Geekbench 7 benchmark scores, confirming that its A20 Pro chip nearly matches the iPhone 18 Pro in performance. It edges ahead in single-core tests and trails slightly in multi-core tests, suggesting the foldable design has not significantly affected performance.
Facts
The iPhone Duo, equipped with an A20 Pro chip, scored 3,986 in single-core tests, slightly higher than the iPhone 18 Pro’s 3,980.
The iPhone Duo scored 11,067 in multi-core tests, below the iPhone 18 Pro’s 11,540, a difference of about 4.1%.
The iPhone Duo’s multi-core score is about 11.7% higher than that of the iPhone 17 Pro, which is equipped with an A19 Pro chip.
The iPhone Duo is scheduled to open for preorders on Oct. 16, with shipments beginning Oct. 23.
Anniversary sales kick off across Xinyi District department stores; 新光三越 upbeat as customer traffic rises 5% year over year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
新光三越’s Taipei Xinyi Place anniversary sale began on the 15th, with first-day customer traffic and sales forecast to rise 5% and 3% year over year, respectively, boosted by strong demand for cosmetics, 3C products, and sports and leisure goods.
Facts
新光三越 expects first-day customer traffic at its Taipei Xinyi Place to rise 5% year over year, driving a 3% increase in sales.
新光三越 said it stocked 1.2 million sets of its annual star beauty deals, up 20% year over year.
The four buildings of Taipei Xinyi Place bring together more than a thousand brands, including 295 exclusive brands.
新光三越 has introduced its annual “TOP 100 MUST BUY” selection of 100 must-have products for the first time.
新光三越 is optimistic that young shoppers and premium members will continue arriving over the weekend, further boosting the shopping wave.
Memory chips are still in short supply, so why the fear of a glut? Two major concerns behind sharp falls in three major companies’ shares
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Memory stocks came under selling pressure over new technology from China’s ChangXin Memory Technologies and concerns about excess supply in 2029, sending shares of Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron sharply lower. Analysts remain skeptical about ChangXin’s ability to ramp up production and forecasts of future oversupply. AI demand is driving prices higher, but capacity expansion takes time, and shortages are expected to ease only in 2028.
Facts
Over the past 5 trading days, SK Hynix plunged 26%, 三星電子 fell 22%, and Micron declined about 11%.
ChangXin Memory Technologies plans to launch server memory products using a new architecture to increase storage density.
A large amount of new supply is expected to come online in 2029, potentially intensifying competition in the memory market.
It takes about 3 to 5 years to build and bring a new plant online, and the shortage is expected to ease only in 2028.
Suppliers and buyers are signing long-term supply agreements of 3 to 5 years, with large advance payments and price floors and ceilings to improve transaction stability.
This tech selloff is nothing like July! JPMorgan warns: retail investors have given up buying the dip, and short-squeeze firepower has run dry
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
摩根大通 warned that this round of declines in AI infrastructure stocks lacks support from retail buying, short covering and buybacks, leaving the rebound on a fragile footing. South Korean memory companies have ended their buybacks, while cyclical stocks are not yet oversold and the conditions for a recovery are not in place.
Facts
摩根大通’s report said this round of declines in AI infrastructure stocks lacks support from retail buying, short covering and corporate buybacks.
Since October, overseas investors’ purchases through leveraged ETFs and domestic investors’ purchases through unleveraged ETFs have been quite limited.
Short positions in the iShares MSCI South Korea ETF have barely changed since October.
The stock buyback plans totaling US$40 billion by two major South Korean memory companies effectively ended in mid-October.
Assets under management in leveraged stock ETFs as a share of the market capitalization of their underlying stocks are currently around the 70th percentile of the range between this year’s April low and June high.
The recession probability implied by the Russell 2000 Index and cyclical stocks’ performance relative to defensive sectors has risen to about 30%.
Holdings in cyclical stocks relative to defensive sectors have declined since mid-August but have not yet turned net short.
Tsunan Brewing speaks at the 15th Kansai Jōyūkai Lecture: Toward location-independent sake brewing using generative AI and fermentation mechanism models
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kengo Suzuki, president and representative director of Tsunan Brewing, delivered a lecture titled “The Challenge of New Sake” at the 15th Kansai Jōyūkai Lecture, held on September 29, 2026. He discussed development progress on “smart brewing” using generative AI and “super-smart brewing” based on fermentation mechanism models.
Facts
Sept. 29, 2026
100% edible rice: Uonuma Koshihikari
Polishing ratio: 50%
Established in 2023
Joined Tsunan Brewing as a shareholder in 2019
Appointed president and representative director in December 2023
Add another joy to supporting your favorite creators. Introducing FANATOMY, a free tool to strengthen TikTok LIVE fan communities: streaming reports, co-viewing, and fan community chat
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社CUEIGHT has launched FANATOMY, a free tool for TikTok LIVE fans and streamers. It offers features such as streaming reports, co-viewing, and fan community chat, with basic features available for free.
ファーストイノベーション strengthens collaboration across 5 businesses under new leadership from Chairman Katsushi Amagasaki and President Yushi Kinone
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ファーストイノベーション will strengthen collaboration across its 5 businesses—creative, promotion, marketing, consulting, and solutions—under its new leadership of Chairman Katsushi Amagasaki and President Yushi Kinone. It will advance a support framework centered on its AI agent OS “Lumina” and AI-collaborative consulting service “Optis.”
Launch of “Puente QR Code Maker,” a dynamic QR code creation service starting at 480 yen per month (excluding tax), with destinations that can be changed even after printing
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社プエンテ has launched “Puente QR Code Maker,” a dynamic QR code creation service that allows destination URLs to be changed even after printing. Static QR codes are free and require no registration; dynamic QR codes are available starting at 480 yen per month (excluding tax).
株式会社伊藤屋国際 will begin selling “AGA Z,” the flagship wired earphones from Chinese audio equipment maker Agasound, on October 23. Featuring brass and pure copper, they are distinguished by designs including a lunar-surface texture.
With vegetable prices soaring, soup and miso soup are the best ways to use up vegetables without waste!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社新星出版社 will release the recipe book “More Vegetables Should Be Eaten in Soups and Miso Soup,” written by Toshie Kurahashi, on October 16, 2026. Following the long-running success of the previous book, this second volume features 91 soup and miso soup recipes.
Facts
Features a total of 91 recipes
A long-running bestseller with over 180,000 copies sold
Available today: Where will the love story of this contrary guy lead? Latest issue of BL magazine “iHZ [iHearts]” | Taiyo Tosho
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Issue 20 of BL magazine “iHZ [iHearts]” became available on October 16, 2026. It features works by a stellar lineup of contributors, including むく田やなぴ, mememe, and ウジチャンマン.
Finnish producer, artist, and songwriter Misha releases new album “Dreamwaves”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Finnish producer Misha has released “Dreamwaves,” the final installment of a trilogy. With over 100 million Spotify streams, the album features collaborations with a diverse range of artists, including Gwen Bunn. Misha held a first-ever Tokyo performance on October 2.
Facts
Over 100 million Spotify streams worldwide
2 Emma Award nominations
Release date: Friday, October 16, 2026
Companies mentioned：The Orchard Japan、SWEET SOUL RECORDS、Spotify、HBO Max、Okayplayer、Soulection Radio、BBC Radio 1Xtra
French producer Blanka releases new single “Jazz Listening” featuring Grems and La Fine Équipe
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
French producer Blanka has released the new single “Jazz Listening,” featuring Grems and La Fine Équipe. It became available on SWEET SOUL RECORDS on October 16, 2026.
Facts
Oct. 16, 2026
More than 2 years
Companies mentioned：The Orchard Japan、De Phase、SWEET SOUL RECORDS
Originalデジタルハリウッド大学［DHU］、ふみのさんが THE YELLOW MONKEY『JAM』を歌唱する新作60秒CMを10月23日（金）に公開
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
デジタルハリウッド大学 will release a new commercial featuring singer-songwriter Fumino on October 23, 2026, and run OOH advertising at Harajuku Takeshita Exit Park.
Video released!!! Saraba Seishun no Hikari calmly introduce “Gunyū o Tsuzuru,” only for it to end up as “Your order”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A promotional video featuring Saraba Seishun no Hikari has been released to mark the publication of volume 1 of the manga “Gunyū o Tsuzuru,” serialized in 週刊少年マガジン.
U.S. plan to livestream execution by firing squad sparks backlash; Trump decides to call it off
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Pentagon officials said they would livestream the execution of Hasan, the Fort Hood shooter, drawing condemnation from the United Nations and lawmakers from both parties. President Trump later posted that he had decided to cancel the livestream, but would proceed with the execution as planned and allow victims’ families to attend.
Facts
13 people killed
More than 30 people were injured
Hasan at Fort Hood, Texas, in the United States in 2009
Saudi Arabia says it invited the Houthi movement for talks in Oman weeks ago, but was rejected
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Saudi Arabia accused Iran of supporting Yemen’s Houthi rebels and said it had invited the group for talks in Oman weeks ago, but the invitation was rejected.
Facts
(Central News Agency, Riyadh, 15th, compiled from foreign wire reports)
Saudi Arabia had already reached out to the Houthi movement several weeks ago
Health Calendar | There is no truth in this world, only perspectives (Nietzsche) - Heho健康
Published ・ Source Taiwan | Heho健康
The article quotes Nietzsche’s saying, “There is no truth in this world, only perspectives,” and explains from the perspective of neuroscience that the brain’s reticular activating system (RAS) can lead to confirmation bias. It recommends changing perspectives to break habitual thinking.