Deputy Health and Welfare Minister Lu Chien-te said there was no legal basis for sharing the cost of using senior citizens' cards to buy reserved-seat tickets on 台鐵, as the Senior Citizens Welfare Act lacks relevant provisions. While he welcomed the idea, implementation would be difficult. Deputy Transportation Minister Wu Sheng-yuan said the 交通部 was discussing how to handle future maintenance and installation costs with the 衛福部.
Facts
Initial estimate of installation costs: about NT$62 million
Erroneous charge for redeeming 生生喝鮮乳; Chiang Wan-an pledges to improve process
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Users were mistakenly charged when redeeming 生生喝鮮乳 in Taipei. Mayor Chiang Wan-an said the money had been refunded and the process improved. In response to a dispute over free school lunches and public complaints, Chiang said he had instructed relevant departments to provide assistance.
Lai Ching-te calls for passage of supplementary budget to support 中油 and 台電 and stabilize prices
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At a Democratic Progressive Party central standing committee meeting, Lai Ching-te said the supplementary budget for the 115年度 general budget would provide funding to 中油 and 台電 to stabilize prices. He called on the DPP legislative caucus to communicate with the Kuomintang to jointly stabilize prices. He also mentioned funding for the 116年 National Health Insurance fund and election strategy.
Facts
A total of NT$607.6 billion was budgeted
台電 to receive NT$71.1 billion in subsidies
中油 subsidy of NT$101.4 billion
A NT$233.8 billion capital injection
NT$60 billion allocated to support the National Health Insurance fund
Man reportedly falls while rock climbing at Longdong and is injured; rescued by helicopter
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man surnamed Li was reportedly injured after falling from a height of 5 meters at the Longdong climbing area in Gongliao District, New Taipei City. Due to rough seas and steep terrain, the fire department requested a helicopter rescue, and he was taken to 基隆長庚醫院.
Shen Po-yang interviewed by范琪斐 on “TODAY 看世界”; staff eagerly pose for photos
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Shen Po-yang, the DPP's candidate for Taipei mayor, was interviewed on “TODAY 看世界,” hosted by Fan Chi-fei. The program will air tonight. Chou Hsuan posted a photo on Facebook of Shen with LINE TODAY employees. Shen's campaign office confirmed it was taken when he visited LINE TODAY for the interview.
Repeat drunk-driving offender released on NT$100,000 bail after fatally striking college student; prosecutors appeal
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A repeat drunk-driving offender surnamed Chan struck and killed a college student surnamed Tsai. The court ordered his release on NT$100,000 bail. The 屏東地檢署 said the ruling contained serious errors and that there was a high risk of reoffending, and filed an appeal in accordance with the law.
Facts
Released on NT$100,000 bail
Original蔡姓女大生2日回里港鄉奔喪
The defendant surnamed Chan was convicted of drunk driving in 2024
Penghu smart tourism service platform launches, with weekly 1-dollar trips to Penghu prize draws
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026「BBGO One Scan澎湖智慧旅遊服務平台」launched today. The “1-dollar trip to Penghu” promotion will be held weekly through the end of the year, and 52 businesses have joined so far.
Facts
2026「BBGO One Scan澎湖智慧旅遊服務平台」
1-dollar trip to Penghu
52 businesses
More than 10,000 members
Companies mentioned：中央社、行政院南部服務中心、澎湖國家風景區管理處、BBGO One Scan澎湖智慧旅遊服務平台
New mascot for 原棒協's Care Cup unveiled; Lin Chih-sheng invites young players to take part
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 33rd 原棒協 Care Cup will be held in Taitung County from Nov. 20 to 23. This year, the event has added a new mascot, “Happy Kid,” and invited more young professional baseball players to participate. A total of 62 teams will compete.
Facts
33rd
Nov. 20 to 23
A total of 62 teams
16 teams in the Little League hardball division
25 teams in the youth baseball rubber-ball division
中華電 teams up with Google to launch AI plans, with first-phase target of 200,000 users
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中華電信 announced deeper cooperation with Google and launched a range of AI plans integrating Gemini, with a first-phase target of adding 200,000 users. It is also developing data centers and 5G standalone (SA) networks to meet network demand.
Facts
中華電信 has worked with Google since 2021
In 2022, it launched a telecom plan bundled with a Google One cloud storage membership
The cumulative number of customers using its bill collection service has reached 1 million
The first phase aims to reach 200,000 new users
More than 200,000 users are still subscribed to Google One
Taoyuan section of the new Taolin MRT line to be submitted to central government for review first; Chang San-cheng: Continue integrating cross-city rail networks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng announced that, because the Taoyuan section of the new Taolin MRT line requires further coordination with New Taipei City on cross-city integration, the feasibility study will first be submitted to the 交通部 for review, with integration of the two cities’ rail networks to follow.
Facts
Main line: about 17.1 kilometers
Branch line: about 2.5 kilometers
Total length: 19.6 kilometers
23 stations planned
And 1 depot
Expected to serve about 750,000 people
Feasibility study launched in March of ROC year 114
Keelung’s Tianwaitian fire investigation findings prompt differing views from Tong Tzu-wei and Hsieh Kuo-liang
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The findings of the investigation into the fire at Keelung’s Tianwaitian landfill have drawn attention. DPP candidate Tong Tzu-wei said the report ruled out human involvement, while Mayor Hsieh Kuo-liang said the possibility of leftover embers could not be ruled out, with the two holding differing views.
Lin An-ko says debut season in Japan fell short of expectations; struggles with stifling heat at Seibu Dome, says it feels like an oven
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
埼玉西武獅隊 infielder Lin An-ko, back in Taiwan, assessed his first season in Japan as unsatisfactory. Despite experiences such as his first career home run, he struggled to adjust to the stifling summer heat at Seibu Dome, and knee injuries and a slump kept him out of the postseason.
Tomorrow’s weather / 2 waves of cold air on the way! Temperatures to drop to 17 degrees from this day, with heavy rain as weather changes; a look at this week’s forecast
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Central Weather Administration issued a forecast for the coming week, saying two waves of northeasterly monsoon winds will affect Taiwan in succession. The first will strengthen tomorrow and last through the 7th; the second will move south on the 9th and last through the 11th, and will be stronger. Rain will increase in northern and eastern Taiwan, with early-morning lows on the 11th possibly falling to 17 degrees. Residents are advised to prepare for changing weather and dress warmly.
Facts
The first northeasterly monsoon is expected to strengthen tomorrow afternoon and continue to affect the area through the 7th.
The second wave of cold air is expected to move south on the 9th and last through the 11th, with a more noticeable impact than the first wave.
Early on the 11th, lows in some open areas could fall to 17 to 18 degrees.
The chance of rain will rise in northern and eastern Taiwan while the northeasterly monsoon is in effect, and some areas may see heavier rain.
This year’s 30th typhoon, Wipha, will have no direct impact on Taiwan.
Lai Jui-lung crosses sea to Penghu to back Wu Shu-chin in bid for a ‘twin-city’ partnership; returns to Kaohsiung for Gangshan rally, ‘Northern Kaohsiung United’ set for 11/7
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Lai Jui-lung traveled across the sea to Penghu to campaign for fellow party member and county magistrate candidate Wu Shu-chin, emphasizing deeper cooperation between Kaohsiung and Penghu. He also announced a large rally in Gangshan on Nov. 7, bringing in a rock-concert-style zone to consolidate support in northern Kaohsiung.
Facts
Kaohsiung mayoral candidate Lai Jui-lung visited Penghu on the 4th to meet with county magistrate candidate Wu Shu-chin and greet Kaohsiung residents living in Penghu.
County Magistrate Chen Kuang-fu’s personal approval rating reached 75.4% in the latest survey by Global Views Monthly.
Lai Jui-lung’s campaign headquarters announced that a “Northern Kaohsiung United” rally will be held in Gangshan on Nov. 7.
The Gangshan rally will bring the widely praised “rock zone” campaign format to northern Kaohsiung for the first time, with a limited number of seats available through a lottery registration.
Lai Jui-lung pledged to coordinate with relevant agencies to seek improvements to the underground passage between Kaohsiung International Airport’s domestic terminal and the MRT station.
Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang will remotely campaign in support of the Gangshan rally on Nov. 7.
In pictures》A deer with “long tusks” lived in Taiwan 3,000 years ago! Archaeologists unearthed bones—why did it disappear?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Through analysis of archaeological remains, 國立自然科學博物館 confirmed that a tusked deer known as the water deer lived in Taiwan 3,000 years ago. The study found that it went extinct in Taiwan in the early 19th century because of the loss of wetlands and overhunting, though it is still found elsewhere around the world.
Facts
The water deer’s scientific name is Hydropotes inermis; it is also known in English as the Chinese water deer and belongs to the deer family.
A male water deer’s upper canine teeth can protrude about 7 centimeters from its mouth and are used in fights and competition between males.
The archaeology team at the National Museum of Natural Science found water deer bones at 4 Iron Age sites in Taichung: Zhong She, Lu Liao, Nan Shikeng and Hui Lai.
The water deer may have gone extinct in Taiwan by the early 19th century at the latest.
Wild water deer populations today are found along China’s eastern coast, on the Korean Peninsula and in the United Kingdom.
11/4 International evening briefing | Democrats take both chambers; Trump vows, “I’ll veto everything”; former CCTV host seeks help and is sent back to Thailand; Google tells schools: ban AI and we’ll shut down search too
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article rounds up key international news on Nov. 4, covering cross-strait exchange figures and policy, the results of the U.S. midterm elections and ensuing political battles, principles for handling protection cases involving mainland Chinese nationals, and the controversy over APEC invitations.
Facts
Nearly 1.4 million Taiwanese travelers used the mini three links this year, a record since service resumed in 2023.
The Taiwan Affairs Office announced 3 Taiwan compatriot permit concessions, including free first-time issuance, more ports of entry and ticket discounts at tourist attractions.
Former CCTV host Cheng Wan-chun arrived in Taoyuan seeking humanitarian protection, but the Mainland Affairs Council sent him back to Thailand because there was no evidence from a third party.
Just 350 meters from Neili Station! Construction begins on public-led urban renewal at Taoyuan’s Neili Third Market, with 106 social housing units and a nonprofit preschool planned
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The public-led urban renewal project at Neili Third Market, a collaboration between the Taoyuan City Government and 立信機構, broke ground on the 4th. The site has been expanded to 3,667 square meters, and completion is expected in ROC year 119. The project will provide 106 social housing units, a nonprofit preschool and a new police station, strengthening its transit-oriented development functions.
Facts
The public-led urban renewal project at Neili Third Market officially broke ground on the afternoon of the 4th.
The site is just about 350 meters from Neili Railway Station.
Completion is expected in ROC year 119.
The city government will receive 106 housing units for use as social housing.
The site has been expanded from 2,212 square meters to 3,667 square meters.
Two modern buildings are planned, with 20 above-ground floors, 19 above-ground floors and 4 basement levels.
A nonprofit preschool of about 137 ping is also planned in the buildings, with 3 classes and places for 48 children.
A new Neili police station of about 510 ping will be built.
U.S. midterm election results are in: Democrats retake both chambers of Congress; what lies ahead for Europe?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Democrats retook both chambers of Congress in the 2026 U.S. midterm elections, raising concerns about strained transatlantic ties, delays to aid for Ukraine and European election campaigns being hit by the energy crisis.
Facts
The Democratic Party won at least 54 Senate seats and 228 House seats in the 2026 midterm elections。
Ischinger，a former senior German diplomat，warned that transatlantic relations would face further friction。
Gordon，a national security adviser to former Vice President Kamala Harris，said Trump could still veto legislation。
Mardus，director of the Royal Institute of International Affairs，said the process of providing aid to Ukraine was slow。
Former U.S. diplomat Volker said Trump could unilaterally order a halt to the enforcement of sanctions on Russia。
Four core EU member states—France，Italy，Poland and Spain—will hold elections in 2027。
POLITICO reporter Harris predicted that political infighting in Washington could spread to internal power struggles within major parties。
Why did ancient imperial consorts all wear a white scarf around their necks？3 hidden motives never mentioned in period dramas，with uses you’d never guess
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article explores the historical background and function of the white scarf worn by imperial consorts in Qing palace dramas，known as “longhua.” A traditional accessory for Manchu women，longhua provided warmth and covered the skin，while its embroidery patterns and materials strictly distinguished ranks in the imperial harem. It gradually disappeared with the popularity of Western-style clothing。
Facts
The white scarf worn by imperial consorts in the Qing imperial harem was formally called “longhua” and was a traditional accessory for Manchu women。
Longhua was usually made of fabrics such as silk and satin. It was wrapped around the neck，with both ends tucked into the garment。
Longhua worn by ordinary consorts often featured plants and flowers such as plum blossoms，orchids，bamboo and chrysanthemums，known collectively as the “Four Gentlemen.”
The peony，a symbol of wealth and honor，was considered a more prestigious decoration and was usually associated with the empress and other exalted ranks。
The Empress Dowager’s longhua had a different decorative style，more often featuring auspicious characters such as “福” and “壽” than floral patterns。
Longhua did not become widely popular at the beginning of the Qing dynasty；it became a common accessory as court life and clothing culture evolved。
Under the influence of Western clothing culture in the late Qing and early Republican period，longhua gradually lost its place in outfits and faded from everyday dress。
Xiang Mu Shi Guang travel fair deals start at 52% off，with stays for 2 under NT$5,000；online sale launches early for 2 weeks，and buy hot spring tickets to get 2 free
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
享沐時光莊園渡假酒店 is taking part in the 2026 ITF Taipei International Travel Fair with online and in-person promotions. The online sale runs from Nov. 1 to 15，offering stays and hot spring packages at up to 52% off. The in-person fair will be held at Hall 1 of the Nangang Exhibition Center from Nov. 6 to 9，with gifts offered for qualifying purchases。
Facts
享沐時光莊園渡假酒店 is participating in the 2026 ITF Taipei International Travel Fair，offering deals starting at 52% off。
The online travel fair starts at 10 a.m. on Nov. 1 and runs until late at night on Nov. 15。
The lowest weekday rate for a one-night stay with breakfast in a Deluxe Double Room is NT$4,988。
A buy 10，get 2 free deal on outdoor hot spring or nude bathing tickets is priced at NT$6,000。
The in-person travel fair will be held at Hall 1 of the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center from Nov. 6 to 9。
The travel fair price for a one-night stay with breakfast in a Western-Japanese or Japanese-style room is NT$7,988。
The travel fair price for a hot spring bath and Mandarin duck hot pot set for 2 is NT$2,488。
78-year-old woman owns property worth 150 million yen，but has only 900,000 yen in savings！Mortgage paid off，yet she can barely afford this bill
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Kumiko，a 78-year-old woman living alone in Japan，owns property estimated to be worth 150 million yen and has no mortgage，but her modest pension and heavy tax bills have depleted her savings to 900,000 yen. She faces the difficult choice of whether to sell her old home to address her financial crisis while maintaining her quality of life。
Facts
Kumiko，a 78-year-old woman，lives alone in a detached house in Tokyo that is about 45 years old. Her husband has died，and she has no children。
The woman receives a monthly pension of about 120,000 yen，but her monthly living expenses are about 130,000 yen，forcing her to keep drawing on her savings。
The woman’s bank deposits dwindled to about 900,000 yen，leaving an annual funding gap of about 400,000 yen。
The detached house where the woman lives is estimated to sell for as much as 150 million yen，but the mortgage was paid off long ago。
The woman pays a total of about 280,000 yen a year in fixed asset tax and city planning tax。
Ground staff put a “red tag” on his checked luggage！He feared a fine，but most people don’t know its real purpose
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A traveler returning to Taiwan shared that ground staff attached a HEAVY tag to his 23-kilogram bag，leaving him worried he would be fined. The tag is an IATA standard intended to remind baggage handlers to take care. There is no extra charge as long as the bag is within the free allowance and does not exceed 32 kilograms。
Facts
A traveler flying back to Taiwan from Busan，South Korea，had a bag that weighed exactly the 23-kilogram limit and ground staff attached a red tag reading “HEAVY.”
The “HEAVY” tag is mainly intended to protect airport baggage handlers by reminding them to use safe lifting techniques。
Under standards set by the 國際航空運輸協會（IATA），a HEAVY tag is attached when a single piece of luggage reaches or approaches 23 kilograms。
There is no extra charge for a HEAVY tag as long as the total weight is within the airline’s free checked baggage allowance。
A single piece of luggage weighing more than 32 kilograms is usually refused for check-in or must be repacked on-site under safety rules。
Don’t just use rock sugar and soy sauce for braised pig’s feet！A cooking expert adds 2 ingredients for tender meat and a more layered sauce
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article details techniques for braising pig’s feet，including preparation methods such as frying or pan-searing，seasoning tips using beer，maltose and vegetarian oyster sauce，and braising in a rice cooker. It cites advice from cooking expert Chiu Yun-wen and 金蘭醬油 to improve the texture of the pig’s feet and add depth to the sauce。
Facts
Recipe writer Chiu Yun-wen recommends using beer and maltose to braise pig’s feet，adding flavor and color。
One home cook says frying pig’s feet before braising makes the skin springier and gives it more texture。
Soy sauce brand 金蘭 says using too much soy sauce can make a dish too salty and recommends adding shiitake vegetarian oyster sauce for extra umami。
Beer helps keep the meat juicy and tender，while maltose balances the beer’s bitterness。
金蘭 recommends adding ingredients that absorb flavor quickly，such as kelp and dried tofu，halfway through braising。
Pour-over coffee guide》Three-stage pouring method，the golden coffee ratio and bloom tutorial for a rich，smooth，non-bitter cup
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article details the steps and techniques for the three-stage pour-over coffee method，including how to divide the water among the bloom and three pours. It also offers tips on using a digital scale and pouring technique to help coffee lovers brew a rich，smooth，non-bitter cup。
Facts
The three-stage pour-over method uses 160 ml of water in total：20 ml for blooming，80 ml in the first pour，40 ml in the second，and 20 ml in the third。
The bloom should last 20 seconds. The coffee grounds should swell and rise evenly when it is done。
The recommended water temperature for pour-over coffee is 92–96°C，with a medium-fine grind。
UCC COFFEE ACADEMY is Japan’s first professional coffee education institution，founded by UCC集團。
For blooming，the recommended amount of hot water is twice the weight of the coffee grounds to avoid premature dripping or incomplete extraction。
Startup association launches 2026 Startup Week，connecting resources across Taipei and New Taipei to link strategic funding with industry supply chains and expand cross-sector business opportunities
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
全國創新創業總會 announced the launch of 2026 Startup Week on Nov. 4 and released a map of startup events across Taipei and New Taipei. The initiative aims to connect resources from government，industry，academia and research，and promote cross-sector cooperation between established businesses and startups in funding，technology and markets。
Facts
全國創新創業總會 held a pre-event press conference for 2026 Startup Week on Nov. 4。
The Startup Week event map uses the metro network as its motif to connect entrepreneurial resources across Taipei and New Taipei。
迅得機械 led 博世科智能’s Series A fundraising round。
Original歐群科技董事長廖月照分享與慧穩科技的合作經驗。
Original程曦資訊董事長黃士軍分享與點點全球的共創案例。
Four member companies of the association’s 「食品產業聯盟」 joined forces to create a co-creation gift box.
Nov. 4 Evening News | Taiwan Affairs Office touts 「3 benefits」 of the Taiwan Compatriot Permit for mini three links; Democrats win back both chambers of Congress in U.S. midterm elections; cooler weather arrives tomorrow night, with lows of 17 degrees forecast 「next week」
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Taiwan Affairs Office announced record-high figures for the mini three links and promoted special offers; Democrats won the U.S. midterm elections; Taiwan stocks swung sharply; cooler weather is on the way; and a fatal drunk-driving case in Pingtung sparked legal controversy.
Facts
Taiwan stocks were affected by the U.S. midterm elections, plunging more than 1450 points at one point during the session, while foreign investors recorded nearly NT$150 billion in net sales in a single day.
The northeast monsoon will strengthen from next Monday through Wednesday, with temperatures in some exposed areas possibly dropping to 17 to 18 degrees.
In the case of a repeat drunk driver in Ligang, Pingtung, who struck and killed a female college student, the court ordered bail of NT$100,000, and prosecutors filed an appeal.
U.S. midterm elections mark a political sea change! Trump becomes a lame-duck president. Foreign Ministry: Work with the U.S. will be bipartisan and build goodwill
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Democrats took control of both chambers of Congress in the U.S. midterm elections, leaving Trump a lame-duck president. Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that its work with the U.S. is bipartisan and that it will deepen cooperation to ensure support for Taiwan-U.S. relations.
Facts
Democrats have secured a majority of seats in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives.
Trump is set to become a lame-duck president.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says its work with the U.S. will be bipartisan, build goodwill and pursue active engagement.
Democrats flipped gubernatorial races in multiple states, including red states such as Texas.
Trump said that if Democrats control Congress, he will use his veto power to force negotiations.
Breaking: Funds from 427 customer transactions stolen and transferred! 永豐銀行 confirms 「external hackers were responsible」: Online banking security settings were exploited
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
永豐銀行 confirmed that external hackers exploited a vulnerability in its new online banking system to steal funds from 427 customer transactions. All the money has been returned, no personal data was leaked, and the bank has strengthened its safeguards and notified regulators.
Facts
Funds from 427 customer transactions at 永豐銀行 were stolen and transferred to accounts at 台北富邦銀行.
永豐銀行 confirmed that external hackers exploited a vendor’s security settings in the new online banking transaction system.
No other financial institution in Taiwan has adopted the new online banking transaction system involved in the case.
永豐銀行 said all the funds involved have been returned and that it is taking full responsibility.
All affected customers had ID numbers beginning with P; hackers obtained valid accounts through random trial and error.
永豐銀行 has launched a cybersecurity and personal data review and confirmed there is no evidence of a personal data leak.
永豐銀行 shared cybersecurity threat intelligence with financial industry peers through F-ISAC.
NT$1.53 billion invested in 「Hive of Innovation and Shared Prosperity」 campus: Zhubei Wenxing Elementary School building opens
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Wenxing Elementary School in Zhubei City, built with NT$1.53 billion in funding from the Hsinchu County Government, officially opened today. Designed around a honeycomb module concept, the school aims to enhance educational resources in the Zhubei High-Speed Rail Special District and provide a high-quality K-12 learning environment.
Facts
Wenxing Elementary School in Zhubei City, Hsinchu County, officially opened today, the 4th, at a ceremony marking the completion of its school buildings and unveiling of its plaque.
The total construction cost of Wenxing Elementary School, jointly funded by the central government and the county government, was about NT$1.539 billion.
Wenxing Elementary School’s architectural plan is based on a hexagonal polyhedron 「honeycomb module」 concept and uses a 「separate zones, not separate buildings」 design.
Wenxing Elementary School has planned 48 regular classrooms and 28 specialist classrooms, with capacity for nearly 1400 students.
Wenxing Elementary School officially began admitting 4 first-grade classes in academic year 114 and opened an affiliated kindergarten with a special class for 2-year-olds and regular classes for children aged 3 to 5.
Wenxing Elementary School’s curriculum combines generative AI digital inquiry with social and emotional learning (SEL).
Wenxing Elementary School is located in the core area of the Zhubei High-Speed Rail Special District and the Biomedical Science Park.
Why did older Taiwanese people insist on moving someone off the bed before they died? It wasn’t because the bed could not be slept in; an ancient taboo lies behind the custom
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article explores the folk belief behind the custom of moving older Taiwanese people off their beds before death, noting that it is not because the bed cannot be slept in but because of an ancient taboo and its cultural significance.
Congratulations to the Democrats on their victory! Trump tells CBS he is willing to work with Democrats but again emphasizes 「veto power」
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
U.S. President Trump spoke with CBS after the Democrats’ midterm election victory, congratulating them and saying he was willing to work across party lines, while emphasizing that he would use presidential veto power to check Congress. Trump blamed the Republicans’ losses on his not being on the ballot and low turnout among his supporters, and reiterated that he had absolute control over the war with Iran.
Facts
Trump congratulates the Democrats after their victory in an interview with CBS
Trump threatens to veto all bills if Democrats do not cooperate
Trump said Republicans would have won if he had been on the ballot
Trump blamed the election loss on supporters staying home instead of voting
Double 11 online shopping deals begin: 聯邦銀行 credit card rewards get a boost, targeting 5 major online shopping platforms with up to NT$7,666 in rewards
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
For the Double 11 shopping festival, 聯邦銀行 is offering credit card deals for online shopping in partnership with 5 major platforms, including momo and Shopee. Customers who meet the spending threshold and register can get up to 11% back, while installment purchases at momo come with up to NT$7,666 in credit card rewards. The bank is also continuing its everyday online shopping offers and other card benefits throughout November.
Facts
聯邦銀行 has launched limited-time bonus rewards for Double 11, with up to NT$7,666 in credit card rewards.
聯邦銀行 has teamed up with 5 major online shopping platforms to offer up to 11% back to customers who meet the spending threshold and register.
Spend the required amount in installments at momo購物網 and register to receive up to NT$7,666 in credit card rewards.
In November, spend at least NT$3,000 in a single transaction at momo購物網 and register to receive NT$200 in credit card rewards.
In November, spend at least NT$1,200 in a single transaction at 蝦皮購物, 酷澎 or 淘寶 and register to receive NT$100 in credit card rewards.
聯邦賴點卡 or 聯邦M卡 offers 3% back on overseas spending with no cap.
聯邦MaiCoin聯名卡 offers up to 4.5% back.
Pay your 聯邦 credit card bill using iPASS MONEY and link your card to get an additional 1% back.
長庚大學 professors Ku Cheng-lun and Hsieh Sen-yung make breakthroughs in the mechanisms behind immunodeficiency and liver cancer, winning the Ministry of Education’s 70th Academic Award
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
長庚大學 professors Ku Cheng-lun and Hsieh Sen-yung won the Ministry of Education’s 70th Academic Award for breakthroughs in research into the mechanisms behind immunodeficiency and liver cancer. The university was the only top institution in the field to receive the award, demonstrating its strength in translational medicine.
Facts
長庚大學 Chair Professor Ku Cheng-lun and Professor and Physician Hsieh Sen-yung received the Ministry of Education’s 70th Academic Award.
長庚大學 was the only top university to receive an award in the biological, agricultural and medical sciences category of the Ministry of Education’s 70th Academic Award.
Ku Cheng-lun’s team successfully developed a 「CAAR-T cell therapy strategy」 to treat immune diseases.
Physician Hsieh Sen-yung discovered that the dual regulation of CDC42 recycling and degradation determines whether cells continue or stop migrating.
Human anti-interferon-gamma monoclonal antibodies isolated by Ku Cheng-lun’s team have entered clinical trials as a new treatment for vitiligo.
Don’t just look at a home’s layout, natural light and shared facilities! Homebuyer shares 「1 most important detail」 that should never be compromised: it can be hard to resell if you regret it
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A Dcard user started a discussion asking people to rank their home-buying criteria. Most respondents said location was the top priority, emphasizing its key impact on resale liquidity, while also mentioning natural light and community size as secondary considerations.
Facts
A user posted on Dcard asking people to rank their criteria when viewing homes.
A poll of users showed that location was considered the top priority when buying a home.
Location matters because of resale ease and commuting convenience.
Some users suggested that a residential community should ideally have 100 to 300 households.
Homebuyers should consider the resale market and avoid being unable to liquidate their assets if they run into cash-flow difficulties.
You can attend university and have hospital care while living in a senior wellness community! CTBC campus wellness community brings in An-Nan Hospital for comprehensive preventive care and health management
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
中信科技大學 and 臺南市立安南醫院 signed a health cooperation letter of intent on October 29, with support from 中信樂活. The move aims to integrate industry, academia and medical resources and use 中信科技大學’s campus wellness community to build a health care system for all ages in response to the challenges of a super-aged society.
Facts
中信科技大學 and 臺南市立安南醫院 signed a health cooperation letter of intent on October 29.
An-Nan Hospital President Lin Sheng-che and CTBC University of Science and Technology President Cheng Chin-che signed the agreement on behalf of the two parties.
Chen Kuo-en, chairman of 中國信託樂活股份有限公司, was invited as a guest to witness the signing.
CTBC University of Science and Technology commissioned CTBC Lohas to build a campus wellness village.
Under the division of responsibilities among the three parties, An-Nan Hospital will provide professional medical assessments and healthcare resources.
Through the concepts of lifelong learning and social prescribing, CTBC University of Science and Technology aims to promote older adults’ physical and mental health and social participation.
The CTBC Campus Wellness Village is a base for the Department of Senior Health Care at CTBC University of Science and Technology to develop hands-on teaching and industry-academia collaboration opportunities.
The 4 Chinese zodiac signs with the quickest minds! They always find a way to solve problems; the No. 1 sign reacts quickly and is especially dependable at critical moments.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
According to a report shared by mainland Chinese media outlet 《搜狐網》, 4 of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs (Dragon, Tiger, Monkey and Snake) are considered especially smart. The Monkey ranks No. 1 for its nimble mind and ability to adapt, making it dependable at critical moments.
Facts
The 4 Chinese zodiac signs considered especially smart are the Dragon, Tiger, Monkey and Snake.
In a ranking based on personality traits, the Monkey ranks No. 1.
People born in the Year of the Monkey are considered naturally quick-witted, quick-thinking and curious about their surroundings.
People born in the Year of the Snake may not express their opinions much, but they have already formed their own judgments.
People born in the Year of the Dragon are considered to have outstanding judgment and leadership skills.
Hsieh Kuo-liang builds 12 public parking lots in 3 years; 45 car spaces and 25 motorcycle spaces to be added at the parking lot on Lane 200, Zhonghe Road, starting next week
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Keelung Mayor Hsieh Kuo-liang inspected the parking lot on Lane 200, Zhonghe Road, where 45 car spaces and 25 motorcycle spaces will be added starting next week to ease parking demand. It is the 12th public parking lot completed by the city government, bringing the total to 2,061 additional car spaces and 4,726 motorcycle spaces. The city is also continuing to improve neighborhood parking by allowing nighttime parking on yellow lines and making use of private land.
Facts
The parking lot on Lane 200, Zhonghe Road, in central Keelung is set to open soon.
The parking lot on Lane 200, Zhonghe Road, is adding 45 small-car parking spaces.
The parking lot on Lane 200, Zhonghe Road, is adding 25 roadside motorcycle parking spaces.
Since taking office in 112, the Keelung City Government has completed 12 public off-street neighborhood parking lots.
Keelung has added 2,061 designated car parking spaces.
Keelung has added 4,726 designated motorcycle parking spaces.
The parking lot on Lane 200, Zhonghe Road, includes 1 space each for electric vehicles, people with disabilities and families with young children.
On roads in urban redevelopment areas, nighttime parking on yellow lines is permitted daily from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. the following day.
Kangxi and Qin Shi Huang both lose out! The 6 greatest emperors in Chinese history, ranked: the winner excelled in both civil and military affairs and shaped history for millennia
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A history column on 《搜狐網》 ranked the 6 greatest emperors in Chinese history, with Tang Emperor Taizong Li Shimin taking the top spot, followed by Qin Shi Huang, Emperor Wu of Han, Ming Emperor Taizu, Sui Emperor Wen and Emperor Kangxi. It analyzed each emperor’s military achievements and successes and failures in governance.
Facts
A total of 422 emperors are recognized in mainstream Chinese history as having formally claimed the title and actually ruled.
Tang Emperor Taizong Li Shimin was named the greatest emperor in Chinese history.
During his reign, Qing Emperor Kangxi, Xuanye, put down the Three Feudatories revolt, recovered Taiwan, repelled Russia and personally led a campaign against Galdan.
Original隋文帝楊堅開創三省六部制與科舉制雛形。
Ming Emperor Taizu, Zhu Yuanzhang, drove out the Mongol Yuan dynasty and recovered the Sixteen Prefectures of Yanyun.
Emperor Wu of Han, Liu Che, issued the Luntai Edict of Self-Criticism to allow the people and the state to recuperate.
Qin Shi Huang, Ying Zheng, unified writing, weights and measures, and currency.
Skip the wait when calling bank customer service! Insider tests a time-saving trick: “Connected in one second, no waiting”; netizens are amazed: “I only just found out”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A netizen shared that selecting “Taiwanese-language service” when calling bank customer service can cut the wait, sparking discussion. Experts and netizens said the option may be faster because fewer staff handle special-language services, but warned that heavy use could cause delays. They also advised using options such as reporting a lost card judiciously to avoid tying up resources.
Facts
A netizen found that selecting Taiwanese-language service can greatly reduce wait times for bank customer service.
There are fewer customer service staff for special languages, so users may still have to wait if too many switch to those languages.
Text-based customer service is considered a way to connect quickly while handling other tasks at the same time.
Some people suggest selecting the lost-card reporting option in the voice menu to shorten the wait.
Using a service option for an unintended purpose may tie up resources needed by people with genuine needs.
Hsieh Kuo-liang builds 12 public parking lots in 3 years; 45 car spaces and 25 motorcycle spaces to be added at the parking lot on Lane 200, Zhonghe Road, starting next week
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Keelung Mayor Hsieh Kuo-liang inspected the parking lot on Lane 200, Zhonghe Road, which will open soon with 45 additional car spaces and 25 motorcycle spaces. The city government is continuing to improve local parking by building 12 public parking lots in 3 years and making use of idle land.
Facts
The parking lot on Lane 200, Zhonghe Road, is adding 45 car parking spaces and 25 motorcycle parking spaces.
Keelung Mayor Hsieh Kuo-liang said the city government has completed 12 public off-street neighborhood parking lots.
The parking lot on Lane 200, Zhonghe Road, includes 1 space each for electric vehicles, people with disabilities and families with young children.
On roads in urban redevelopment areas, nighttime parking on yellow lines is permitted daily from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. the following day.
Plans are being made to apply for a temporary off-street parking lot near the first phase of the Daitian Temple self-led urban land readjustment area, with completion expected by the middle of next year.
Why are there 81 round studs on the Forbidden City gates? They’re not just for decoration! 4 real purposes revealed—and even the emperor couldn’t change them at will
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article explores the history and symbolism of the golden studs on the gates of Beijing’s Forbidden City. The studs evolved from a practical means of reinforcing the gates into ceremonial decorations signifying imperial status. Palace gates generally had 81 studs, symbolizing the emperor’s supreme status, while the Donghua Gate had only 72 for a special reason. The article also discusses the role of the studs in folk customs involving prayers for good fortune and children.
Facts
Some of the Forbidden City’s main palace gates have 9 studs across and 9 rows down, for a total of 81 studs on each door panel.
According to the 《大清會典》, palace buildings had golden door studs arranged in 9 rows and 9 columns.
The Forbidden City’s Donghua Gate has 8 rows of 9 studs, for a total of 72—9 fewer than the more common 81.
The main gate of a Qing-era prince’s mansion could have 9 rows and 7 columns of door studs, for a total of 63.
The Ming-era text 《宛署雜記》 records a custom in which women touched door studs and regarded the stud they touched as an auspicious sign.
Tian Xiwei and Bai Lu aren’t No. 1! The TOP 10 “born for period dramas” heroines in Chinese dramas: she takes the crown, with stunning looks praised across the internet as the pinnacle of Chinese beauty
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article ranks the TOP10 “born for period dramas” heroines in Chinese costume dramas from the past 3 years, drawing on online reviews from platforms such as Douban and PTT. The editorial ranking considers costume styling, suitability for the role and acting performances, and includes standout performances by actresses such as Tian Xiwei, Bai Lu and Yang Zi.
Facts
Drawing on online reviews from platforms such as Douban and PTT, this editorial ranking of the TOP10 “born for costume dramas” heroines in Chinese dramas over the past 3 years considers costume styling, suitability for the role and acting performances.
In the 2026 costume romance 《逐玉》, Tian Xiwei plays Fan Changyu, who transforms from a young woman from the streets into a female general.
Bai Lu plays Jiang Xuening in the 2023 costume romance 《寧安如夢》, portraying a fate entangled with rebirth, power struggles and love.
Yang Zi plays He Weifang in the 2025 costume drama 《國色芳華》, which tells the story of a Tang dynasty woman who builds a business through her expertise in cultivating peonies.
Meng Ziyi plays Dou Zhao in the 2024 costume romance 《九重紫》, whose character reconsiders her fate after experiencing family conflicts in a previous life.
Zhao Liying plays Shen Li, the Azure King of the Spirit Realm, in the 2024 xianxia drama 《與鳳行》, rekindling an on-screen romance with Xingzhi, the Divine Lord played by Lin Gengxin.
In the 2025 costume romance 《一笑隨歌》, Li Qin transforms into Fu Yixiao, an archer from the Kingdom of Jinxiu, and becomes embroiled in a romantic entanglement with Feng Suige, played by Chen Zheyuan.
Chen Duling plays Zhuang Hanyan in the 2025 period family drama 《雁回時》, working alongside Fu Yunxi, a deputy minister of the Court of Judicial Review played by Xin Yunlai.
Why did ancient armies have to capture cities instead of going around them? Leaving them unconquered could lead to even worse consequences! 3 practical reasons explain why
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article analyzes 3 practical reasons ancient armies had to attack cities rather than go around them: protecting supply routes from attack, overcoming the constraints of difficult terrain, and obtaining the resources and strategic value of the cities. Although there were exceptions, such as Deng Ai’s secret crossing of Yinping, in most cases capturing a city was necessary to secure victory.
Facts
When an ancient army bypassed a city, its supply route was exposed to enemy strongholds, creating a high risk that its lines of supply would be cut.
During the Chu-Han contention, Xiang Yu was defeated after Peng Yue repeatedly cut off his rear supply lines, leaving him short of provisions.
Fortresses such as Tong Pass and Jianmen Pass were built along narrow routes, and the terrain made it impossible for loaded vehicles and warhorses to go around them.
In 263 AD, during the Wei campaign against Shu, Wei general Deng Ai crossed mountains via a remote route through Yinping, bypassing Jiange and ultimately prompting Liu Shan, the last ruler of Shu Han, to surrender.
U.S. Midterms: One fewer moderate Republican! Maine Sen. Collins suffers defeat, ending 30-year congressional career
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
In the 2026 U.S. midterm elections, Democratic candidate Jackson defeated veteran Republican Sen. Collins, ending her 30-year political career. The victory helped Democrats expand their Senate majority and, combined with control of the House, gave them sweeping power to check the Trump administration.
Facts
Democratic candidate Jackson defeated Republican Sen. Collins with nearly 54% of the vote in the 2026 midterm elections.
Collins had a 30-year career in the Senate, having first been elected in 1996.
The original Democratic candidate, Plattner, dropped out amid sexual assault controversy, and Jackson stepped in at the last minute.
Collins voted to convict Trump in his second impeachment trial but supported Kavanaugh's appointment to the Supreme Court.
The Democrats won control of both the U.S. Senate and the House, giving them control of both chambers of Congress for the remainder of Trump's term.
Has the Taichung mayoral race really flipped? Doctor examines Dai Li-an poll's “election accuracy”: This candidate leads by 5 percentage points
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Physician Shen Zheng-nan analyzed Dai Li-an's latest Taichung mayoral poll, noting that the lead for green-camp candidate Ho Hsin-chun over blue-camp candidate Chiang Chi-chen was exaggerated because the poll did not adjust for party support. Shen estimated that after adjustment, Chiang actually leads by about 5 percentage points.
Facts
In the latest Taichung mayoral poll released by Dai Li-an, Ho Hsin-chun had a support rating of 41.1%, while Chiang Chi-chen had 30.4%.
Physician Shen Zheng-nan said that failing to adjust for party support in Dai Li-an's polls could result in an error of 5 to 10 percentage points.
Shen Zheng-nan estimated that after adjusting for party support, Chiang Chi-chen should lead by about 5 percentage points.
The poll was commissioned by 信民協會, which tasked Dai Li-an with questionnaire design and analysis; 畢肯市場研究公司 conducted the phone interviews.
The survey was conducted from October 28 to October 30, with 1077 completed interviews.
Shen Zheng-nan said that when a party is doing well in an election, its level of support rises, but this amounts to an illusory shift in party support.
During the 2020 presidential election, Dai Li-an's final poll showed Tsai Ing-wen leading Han Kuo-yu by more than 20 percentage points.
麵屋一燈 and 長生塩人 lose out! Taiwan's best Japanese ramen TOP 10: This shop takes the crown, with foodies praising its rich broth and springy noodles, saying it tastes just like in Japan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
《網路溫度計DailyView》 released its 2026 ranking of the ten most popular Japanese ramen shops, with 隱家拉麵 taking the top spot. The survey covered well-known brands such as 一風堂 and 東京油組総本店, reflecting consumers' preferences for broth flavors and local creativity.
Facts
A 《網路溫度計DailyView》 survey of the ten most popular Japanese ramen shops over the past year (2025/10/27～2026/10/26) ranked 隱家拉麵 first.
隱家拉麵 offers a deluxe chashu platter featuring sous-vide chicken breast, pork chashu and seared chicken thigh, and serves customers on a walk-in, first-come basis without reservations.
大角拉麵 got its start at Hsinchu's Dongmen Market. Its signature broth is a light chicken clear soup simmered with chicken and vegetables, and it also offers a limited quantity of 大角擔擔麵.
東京油組総本店 specializes in abura soba, a brothless oil-mixed noodle dish, and has drawn attention on social media because Korean stars GD, Eunhyuk, ATEEZ and others have been seen with the same dish.
麵屋武藏 was founded in Tokyo's Shinjuku district in 1996. Its specialty is a “W-style double broth” combining rich pork-bone and chicken-bone broth with seafood umami.
Can you be infertile even with regular periods? Doctor says “blocked fallopian tubes” are often symptomless: 3 groups of women should take note
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
桃園宜蘊生殖中心 held an event where a doctor explained the hidden risks of blocked fallopian tubes, emphasizing that even people who have given birth may seek care for secondary infertility. The center recommended early evaluation for high-risk groups to reduce delays in having children.
Facts
桃園宜蘊生殖中心 recently held its first “Taoyuan Babies Come Home” event, bringing together more than a hundred IVF families.
Ms. F, from Miaoli, experienced secondary infertility due to abnormalities in both fallopian tubes. After laparoscopic surgery to remove the fluid buildup, she underwent IVF and successfully gave birth to a baby girl after one egg retrieval and embryo transfer.
Blocked fallopian tubes often cause no symptoms, but 3 groups of high-risk women should be alert: those with a history of pelvic inflammatory disease or chlamydia infection, those with endometriosis, and those who have had pelvic surgery or a history of ectopic pregnancy.
If fluid from a hydrosalpinx flows back into the uterine cavity, it may disrupt the endometrial environment and reduce the chances of IVF success. Surgery is needed first to remove the affected fallopian tube or block the fluid from flowing back.
Women under 35 who have not become pregnant after 1 year of regular unprotected sex are advised to seek a fertility evaluation; those aged 35 and older should seek one promptly if they have not conceived after half a year.
Defense Ministry bundles over 100 budget items for review to unfreeze funds; Ma Wen-chun: Don't ask the Legislature to let it slide without price quotes
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
At the Legislative Yuan's Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee, KMT legislator Ma Wen-chun questioned the Defense Ministry for bundling over 100 budget items that did not meet the conditions for releasing funds, such as lacking price quotes or facing construction delays. She called on the ministry to present solutions instead of asking the Legislature to let it slide.
Facts
The Legislative Yuan's Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee scheduled a Defense Ministry work report and a review of budget requests to unfreeze funds for the 4th.
KMT legislator Ma Wen-chun questioned why the Defense Ministry had bundled many cases and sent them to the Legislative Yuan when they had not even received price quotes.
More than 1900 man-portable short-range air defense missiles are being procured, with a budget of over a hundred billion New Taiwan dollars, but price quotes have not yet been obtained.
The military museum's budget rose from NT$10-plus hundred million to NT$50-plus hundred million, but there has been no progress this year.
The Air Force security platoon's 14 patrol vehicles have yet to find even a supplier, due to the “non-red supply chain” policy requirement.
KMT urges voters to turn out in final election push; Cheng Li-wun: KMT relies on its record, DPP manufactures artificial currents
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun unveiled “Republic of China sashes” at a party Central Standing Committee meeting to counter the DPP, stressing that the party would win through its record and unity rather than resources. She cited Nantou as an example and urged voters to turn out in greater numbers.
Facts
With 23 days left in the 2026 county and city mayoral election campaign, the KMT has launched “Republic of China sashes” bearing the blue-sky, white-sun and red-earth flag design to counter the DPP's “ocean currents.”
KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun wore a sash at the Central Standing Committee meeting on the 4th and announced that they would be distributed to the public at KMT campaign events in counties and cities in the coming days.
Cheng Li-wun stressed that the KMT lacks the state apparatus and the DPP's vast resources, and cannot compete with the DPP on equal terms in mainstream media and online promotion. She said the KMT would therefore not rely on artificial currents or hollow campaign rallies.
The KMT is banking on Nantou County Magistrate Hsu Shu-hua's record of tackling difficult tasks, paying off accumulated debt and providing close attention to grassroots needs, and has set an election target of “13 plus 1.”
Cheng Li-wun urged blue-camp supporters to make sure they vote on November 28, election day, in the face of a high-pressure environment and the DPP's resource advantage.
What are all those “rectangular markings” appearing on roads? Can you be fined for driving over them? Public Works Bureau explains their purpose; drivers take note
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Yunlin County Government's Transportation and Public Works Bureau said the new white rectangular blocks on the road in front of Zhen Nan Elementary School are “visual speed-reduction markings.” Installed under new Ministry of Transportation rules issued in 2024, the markings use an optical illusion to remind drivers to slow down and improve road safety near schools and on high-risk roads.
Facts
After the road in front of Zhen Nan Elementary School in Douliu, Yunlin County, was repaved, white rectangular markings and a green, marked pedestrian walkway were added.
The white rectangular blocks are defined as a new type of “visual speed-reduction marking,” intended to remind drivers to slow down through a visual effect.
In 2024, the Ministry of Transportation amended Article 159-1 of the Regulations on Road Traffic Signs, Markings and Signals, adding “visual speed-reduction markings” to the rules.
Each white block is about 100 centimeters long and about 20 to 30 centimeters wide, with the blocks arranged in a continuous line for dozens of meters.
Visual speed-reduction markings are also called “wedge-shaped speed-reduction markings,” and their thickness should generally not exceed 0.2 centimeters.
Taipei once had 5 city gates, so why did only the “West Gate” disappear? A historical mystery lies behind the Qing-era city's demolition
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article examines why the West Gate was the only one of Taipei's five city gates to disappear. Citing research published by Taiwan Historica in 2024, it says a plan to add a passageway was changed to a demolition plan in 1900. The reasons behind the decision remain unclear, while the other gates were mostly renovated or survived.
Facts
Taipei's walled city was completed in 1884 and had 5 gates: the North Gate, East Gate, South Gate, Little South Gate and West Gate.
The West Gate's formal name was “Baocheng Gate,” and it stood near the present-day junction of Zhonghua Road, Hengyang Road and Baoqing Road.
An article published by Taiwan Historica in 2024 said that adding a passageway was discussed before the West Gate's demolition, but the plan was changed to demolition in late October 1900.
After the West Gate was demolished, the remaining 4 gates were preserved, but the East Gate, South Gate and Little South Gate were rebuilt in a northern palace style around 1966.
The site of Ximen had already taken shape as an oval road space on a 1914 map of Taipei, and later became Ximending.
In Graphics | Top 10 'dumbest' dogs! Beagles and Chow Chows make the list, while the high-spirited champion is a surprise
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
This article introduces a ranking of dogs' working and obedience intelligence compiled by Canadian psychologist Stanley Coren based on judges' assessments. It lists the Top 10 'dumbest' dogs, from the Basset Hound to the Afghan Hound, and explains the traits of these breeds and the reasons for their rankings.
Facts
Canadian psychologist Stanley Coren published the book The Intelligence of Dogs in 1994 and explained his research methods in an article published in Psychology Today in 2009.
Stanley Coren's study surveyed 199 obedience competition judges registered with the 美國犬業俱樂部 (AKC) and 加拿大犬業俱樂部 (CKC).
Basset Hounds were originally bred to track small game such as rabbits, using their keen sense of smell to pursue their targets.
Borzoi can reach speeds of about 56 to 64 kilometers per hour when running at full speed.
The English Bulldog is a brachycephalic breed. Its airway structure may affect its exercise endurance, and it can easily become uncomfortable in hot conditions.
安達人壽 and 星展銀行 deepen services for high-net-worth clients with 3 exclusive plans for intergenerational family wealth transfer
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
安達人壽 and 星展銀行 are deepening services for high-net-worth clients, launching 3 plans under the theme of 'legacy': premium financing, premium services, and dedicated advisory consultations. They also held a private legacy event on October 21, combining jewelry appreciation with wealth planning to help clients transfer family wealth across generations.
Facts
安達人壽 and 星展銀行 jointly held the 'A Prosperous Family: Private Legacy Event' on October 21.
安達人壽 and 星展銀行 are deepening services for high-net-worth clients through 3 offerings: premium financing, premium services, and dedicated advisory consultations.
安達人壽 launched its 'Premium Services Membership' in 2026 in partnership with concierge service provider 奧思禮.
Membership benefits include private jet memberships, Kitchen Tour at Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, and exclusive privileges from Hoshino Resorts.
The event invited representatives of international art jewelry brands to share the design concepts and craftsmanship behind their creations.
Lifelong learning inspires continued growth: Miaoli County senior learning centers showcase their achievements
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Miaoli County held a showcase of senior learning center achievements on the 4th. County Magistrate's wife Chen Mei-chi praised older adults for their learning achievements. The county government was allocated more than NT$15 million, courses have drawn strong participation, and services will continue to expand next year.
Facts
The 115年度 Miaoli County Senior Learning Center Achievement Showcase and Traffic Safety Drama Competition was held at the Miaoli Dome Gymnasium on the morning of the 4th.
Students and teachers from 18 senior learning centers and 3 new immigrant learning centers in the county took part in the event.
Miaoli County Magistrate's wife Chen Mei-chi praised the older learners, saying they were all smiles and full of energy, with as much vitality as young people.
The event honored a total of 101 outstanding organizations and individuals for their achievements in promoting education for older adults.
Original苗栗縣政府115年獲核定樂齡學習中心經費為1,537萬3,294元。
Courses at Miaoli County's senior learning centers recorded 11萬7,963 attendances in 115年.
The Miaoli County Government will continue planning courses and expanding service locations in 116年度.
This is the top fruit for blood sugar control! Nutritionist names 1 food that is 'naturally sweet and rich in dietary fiber,' and says pairing it with these 2 foods works even better
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
A nutritionist names blueberries as the top fruit for blood sugar control because they have a low GI, are high in fiber, and are rich in anthocyanins, which can effectively stabilize blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity. The article also introduces other fruit options that may benefit blood sugar, including raspberries, blackberries, apples, citrus fruits, and avocados.
Facts
Blueberries have a glycemic index (GI) of about 53, making them a low-GI food.
A cup of fresh blueberries contains about 4 grams of dietary fiber.
A cup of raspberries contains about 8 grams of dietary fiber, while a cup of blackberries contains about 5 grams.
A study found that sedentary adults who ate 1 cup of fresh blueberries along with white bread had a smaller post-meal rise in blood sugar.
Blueberries are rich in polyphenols, particularly anthocyanins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Although avocados are fruits, they are low in carbohydrates and rich in dietary fiber and monounsaturated fats.
People who consume more dietary fiber tend to have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Netflix is adding 1 must-see film in November! Fans say, 'Finally!' See the full list of titles coming and leaving
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Netflix has announced its November lineup, adding titles including Inception and The Devil's Plan Season 3, along with a lengthy list of titles leaving the platform, prompting lively discussion and anticipation among fans.
Facts
Netflix will add the film Final Destination: Bloodlines and several titles in the Yowamushi Pedal series on November 1.
Netflix will add the classic films Inception and The Butterfly Effect on November 5.
Netflix will add the variety show The Devil's Plan: Season 3 on November 10.
Netflix will add the medical drama The Miracle of the Emergency Room on November 12.
Netflix will add the medical drama Team Medical Dragon: Season 3 on November 13.
Netflix will add the animated series Detective Conan: Season 16 on November 25.
Netflix will remove the films The Woman King: Amina and Grandpa's OMG on November 2.
Netflix will remove the films I Am Legend and American Sniper on November 12.
Creating an inclusive playground for a flying adventure: Daxing Flying Paradise in Fuxing Township
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Changhua County Magistrate Wang Hui-mei attended the opening ceremony of Daxing Flying Paradise in Fuxing Township. Inspired by an airfield's anti-aircraft tower, the park was built at a cost of NT$28 million and marks the county government's completion of its 20th inclusive, themed park.
Facts
Changhua County Magistrate Wang Hui-mei attended the opening ceremony of Daxing Flying Paradise in Fuxing Township on the morning of the 4th.
The construction cost of Daxing Flying Paradise was about NT$28 million.
Daxing Flying Paradise was created by redeveloping about 0.4 hectares of land provided by Daxing Elementary School.
Daxing Flying Paradise is the 20th inclusive, themed park completed in Changhua County.
The park features facilities including a two-level play tower designed like a gun emplacement, airplane-shaped play equipment, and flying swings.
Construction is continuing on 6 more inclusive, themed parks in Changhua County.
The deadline for the 'Changhua Parks Are Fun and Beautiful' stamp-collection activity is January 31, 116年.
US military acknowledges airstrike on Qeshm Island! Clashes in the Strait of Hormuz as peace talks continue
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The US military launched an airstrike on Iran-controlled Qeshm Island on November 2, accusing Iran of firing missiles at US assets. Despite the clashes, US-Iran peace talks are still underway, while Iran has threatened a stronger response.
Facts
The US military launched airstrikes on Iranian targets on Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz on November 2.
The US described the operation as a 'limited' and 'defensive' military strike.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed it had used 'electronic warfare systems' to shoot down 2 US MQM-170 drones south of Qeshm Island.
Sources in both the United States and Iran said peace talks between the two countries were reportedly still proceeding in parallel.
Qeshm Island covers about 576 square miles, making it the largest island in the Persian Gulf.
Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi said that if the United States and Israel resume military strikes on Iran, Iran's response will be 'more severe and regret-inducing than ever before.'
Hakimi, deputy secretary for human rights affairs in Iran, called the US and Israeli strikes on Iran 'the most serious human rights issue of 2026.'
Lifting the veil on defense secrets? Family of 206th Brigade female lieutenant who fell to her death authorizes Hsu Chiao-hsin to seek and release information; Koo Li-hsiung responds
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Kuomintang legislator Hsu Chiao-hsin submitted to Defense Minister Koo Li-hsiung at the Legislative Yuan an authorization signed by the family of the female lieutenant who fell to her death in the Army's 206th Brigade, allowing the release of the investigation report. She called for the administrative investigation report to be made public in the interest of justice. Koo said the ministry would assess the family's wishes and the progress of the judicial investigation, and pledged to present improvement measures within 3 weeks.
Facts
Kuomintang legislator Hsu Chiao-hsin submitted to Defense Minister Koo Li-hsiung at the Legislative Yuan an authorization signed by the female lieutenant's family to release the investigation report.
Defense Minister Wellington Koo pledged to respond on improvement measures within three weeks.
Army Chief of Staff Chen Chien-yi said the family respected the judicial investigation.
The Ministry of National Defense said the military had completed its disciplinary investigation and punished the personnel involved.
Hsu Chiao-hsin called for investigation information to be made public and transparent, so it could face public scrutiny and judgment.
BBC on the midterm elections: Voter sentiment has shifted across the board, dealing a severe blow to Trump and the Republican Party
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
In the 2026 U.S. midterm elections, Democrats won a majority in the House and appeared poised to flip the Senate, dealing a major blow to Republican momentum with key victories in South Carolina and North Carolina and reflecting a sweeping shift in voter sentiment.
Facts
Democrats won control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the midterm elections on Nov. 3, 2026.
Annie Andrews defeated Darlene Graham in South Carolina to win a Senate seat.
Roy Cooper defeated Michael Whatley in North Carolina to win a Senate seat.
Jon Ossoff won re-election to the Senate in Georgia.
The redrawn boundaries of three districts in Florida led Republicans to lose all three seats.
Ashley Moody narrowly won re-election to the Senate in Florida.
Tianwaitian fire investigation sparks election campaign clash; Hsieh Kuo-liang challenges Tung Tzu-wei: What grounds do you have to claim arson was ruled out and rush to conclusions about the cause?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Keelung mayoral candidate Hsieh Kuo-liang challenged his opponent Tung Tzu-wei's conclusion that the Tianwaitian fire had ruled out human involvement, noting that the investigation had only ruled out equipment failure and could not exclude the possibility of an unattended fire source. He demanded that Tung provide evidence and respect judicial procedures.
Facts
Hsieh Kuo-liang's campaign office issued a press release questioning Tung Tzu-wei's claim that human involvement had been ruled out.
Fire investigation materials show that electrical and mechanical failures were ruled out, but an unattended fire source or heat buildup causing ignition could not be excluded.
Hsieh Kuo-liang corrected his earlier statement, saying the 2 separate points of fire were about 10 meters apart, not 15 meters.
Hsieh Kuo-liang stressed that the fire investigation did not determine that anyone had deliberately set the fire.
Hsieh Kuo-liang questioned why Tung Tzu-wei, who is not the authority responsible for the matter, had reached a conclusion about the cause of the fire.
TWSE and 彭博 sign MOU to deepen internationalization of Taiwan's capital market across 4 key areas
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
臺灣證券交易所 and 彭博 signed an MOU for strategic cooperation during 2026 Taiwan Week, aiming to internationalize Taiwan's capital market across 4 key areas. The partnership will add TAIEX to the 彭博 platform and launch a corporate support program and a financial lab.
Facts
臺灣證券交易所 and 彭博 held an MOU signing ceremony during 2026 Taiwan Week, formally establishing a strategic partnership.
彭博 has officially added the Taiwan Stock Exchange Weighted Index (TAIEX) to the market indexes section of Bloomberg.com.
TWSE and 彭博 jointly launched the Bloomberg x TWSE Power Up program, initially focusing on mid-cap companies.
As of Oct. 31, 2026, the assets under management of the ETF tracking the Taiwan Index Companies 彭博 Taiwan-U.S. Momentum Multi-Asset Balanced Index totaled about NT$235.1 million.
TWSE Chairman Lin Hsiu-ming said the partnership was a key bridge for turning Taiwan's industrial strengths into international competitiveness in capital markets.
彭博 Asia-Pacific Chairman Li Bing said the partnership demonstrated 彭博's long-term commitment to the Taiwan market.
Former Fed No. 3 warns of AI infrastructure risks: $10 trillion in investment could far exceed actual demand
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Former 美國紐約聯準銀行 President William Dudley warned in an article that AI infrastructure investment could reach $10 trillion and lead to excess capacity, leaving only a handful of companies able to survive, while posing serious risks from off-balance-sheet leverage.
Facts
Former 美國紐約聯準銀行 President William Dudley warned that the AI infrastructure race was heading toward severe overcapacity.
Capital investment in AI infrastructure could exceed $10 trillion.
At least seven or eight companies are currently vying ambitiously to become suppliers of hyperscale AI data centers.
AI infrastructure must generate more than $3 trillion in annual revenue to cover capital expenditures and deliver a reasonable return.
Much of the funding comes from private credit and leasing arrangements, with some debt kept off the books until data centers are completed.
Global fiscal crisis deepens! Central banks scramble for gold; 渣打銀行 recommends '3 moves' to build an investment safety net
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
As the global fiscal crisis deepens, central banks are scrambling for gold. 鄭子豐 of 渣打銀行 recommends that investors build a defensive, diversified portfolio with gold, high-dividend stocks and short- to medium-term bonds to weather market volatility.
Facts
鄭子豐, chief investment officer for North Asia at 渣打銀行 Wealth Solutions, recommends that investors build a defensive, diversified portfolio with gold, quality high-dividend stocks and short- to medium-term bonds.
Global central banks had cumulatively added 170 metric tons of gold from the start of the year through the end of August.
Government debt in mature markets such as the U.K., U.S., France and Japan has reached 100% to 250% of gross domestic product.
A hotter-than-expected U.S. September CPI briefly pushed the 10-year Treasury yield above 5.3%, a 24-year high.
South Korea's benchmark stock index surged 68% in the second week, then plunged 30%.
The MOVE Index, which measures volatility in U.S. Treasury yields, jumped 50% to 110 in the third week.
Gold rose 3.7% that week, outperforming the MSCI All Country World Index, which gained just 1.3% over the same period.
Democrats take control of Congress in U.S. midterms; cryptocurrencies rebound with U.S. stocks and resume their climb
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
With Democrats taking control of Congress in the U.S. midterms, the cryptocurrency market initially faced expectations of pressure but later rebounded. Bitcoin has fallen 41% from its all-time high amid a hack of 幣安 and macroeconomic factors, leaving the market facing twin challenges of security and regulation.
Facts
Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress in the U.S. midterm elections, and cryptocurrency prices subsequently rebounded.
Bitcoin briefly fell to a low of about $75,800 on Wednesday before recovering to about $78,400.
幣安, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, was hacked for $6 billion in the largest theft on record.
The total cryptocurrency market capitalization has fallen about 41% from its record high in October 2025 to about $2.61 trillion.
The cryptocurrency market shed about $300 billion in total market capitalization over the past month.
〈SinoPac cybersecurity incident〉“No financial losses, but reputational damage”; new online banking system taken offline, overseas vendor to be pursued for compensation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
永豐銀行 suffered abnormal transfers after hackers exploited a vulnerability in its new online banking system. The bank has taken the system offline and activated a zero-trust mechanism, plans to seek compensation from its overseas vendor, and senior executives apologized with a bow, acknowledging reputational damage.
Facts
永豐銀行 held a press conference on the evening of the 4th to explain the abnormal transfers that occurred on the 3rd, confirming that external hackers exploited a security configuration vulnerability in the vendor's new online banking transaction system.
永豐銀行 Chairman Tsao Wei-shih and President Chuang Ming-fu apologized with a bow to affected customers and the public, saying that although the incident caused no losses, the reputational impact was significant.
永豐銀行 has taken the hacked new online banking transaction system completely offline and implemented a “Zero Trust” mechanism to eliminate risks.
永豐銀行 has formally filed a report on the case and is preparing evidence to seek legal compensation from the overseas software vendor that provided the system.
No other financial institution in Taiwan's industry has adopted the newer technology introduced this time.
〈SinoPac cybersecurity incident〉Bank chairman and president bow and apologize for the second time, retrace how the hack unfolded; NT$41.76 million fully returned
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
An online banking transfer irregularity at 永豐銀行 affected 418 customers and involved NT$41.76 million. Senior bank executives apologized and returned all the funds. The bank confirmed no personal data was leaked, and a third-party cybersecurity team is investigating as the bank cooperates with judicial proceedings.
Facts
Original永豐銀行針對網銀異常轉帳事件，受影響的4,176萬元款項已全數歸還給客戶。
永豐銀行 Chairman 曹為實 and President 莊銘福 bowed and apologized for the second time over the online banking transfer irregularity.
The online banking transfer irregularity affected 418 people and involved 427 transactions.
永豐銀行 confirmed that the incident did not involve a personal data leak, but resulted from hackers using random trial and error to obtain valid accounts.
After clarifying the cause, 永豐銀行 took down the new online banking app involved in the case and invited a third-party cybersecurity team to assist with the investigation.
UK and Dutch visitor arrivals to Taiwan both hit record highs; Tourism Administration heads to London travel trade show to target long-haul European market
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The Tourism Administration of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications reported record numbers of visitors from the UK and the Netherlands to Taiwan in 2025. Director-General 陳玉秀 led a delegation to the WTM travel trade show in London and to The Hague to promote Taiwan tourism, and launched incentives for repeat visitors to expand the long-haul European market.
Facts
The number of visitors from the UK to Taiwan in 2025 was 77,958, while the number from the Netherlands was 28,075. Both figures were record highs and exceeded pre-pandemic levels.
Tourism Administration Director-General 陳玉秀 and representatives of 48 travel agencies and airlines traveled to the UK to attend WTM London, a leading global tourism trade show.
European visitors to Taiwan stayed an average of 12.38 nights in 2025 and spent an average of US$203.67 per person per day.
Last month (10), the Tourism Administration launched the “International Repeat Visitor Incentive Program,” offering grants ranging from NT$10,000 to NT$30,000 to tour groups of 4 or more.
The Tourism Administration established a tourism service office (TTIC) in Amsterdam in 2025.
The Taiwan pavilion at the London travel trade show invited Carmen Roberts, host of the BBC's The Travel Show, to share her travel experiences in Taiwan.
National treasure-level paper sculpture artist 洪新富 used paper sculptures to introduce Taiwan's endemic wildlife and presented his work at the Taiwan pavilion.
勁榮企業 links 20,000 outlets to tap into the trillion-dollar installment market, aims to become the next 和泰 golden goose
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
和潤-invested 勁榮企業 was officially established on the 4th and launched the Pay4U brand to tap into the trillion-dollar installment market. The company has linked nearly 20,000 outlets and is focusing on motorcycle and consumer financing, aiming to build Taiwan's brand of choice.
Facts
和潤-invested 勁榮企業 announced its official establishment on the 4th.
勁榮企業 is building its presence with the “Pay4U” brand, aiming to become Taiwan's preferred consumer installment financing brand.
Pay4U has now linked nearly 20,000 partner outlets across Taiwan.
勁榮企業 focuses on two core businesses: motorcycle financing and consumer financing.
勁榮企業 offers convenient online applications and a dedicated app-based payment system.
勁榮企業 will pursue three strategies: expanding its distribution network, deepening industry partnerships, and diversifying its product offerings.
勁榮企業 has completed its nationwide network rollout across brick-and-mortar motorcycle dealerships.
A year after launching his newsletter, prominent Wall Street short seller Michael Burry stressed that short-term performance does not reflect investment ability. An analysis of his publicly disclosed holdings shows sharply mixed results: Oracle plunged among his bearish AI positions, while software stock Veeva surged. His long-term portfolio overall lagged the market.
Facts
Burry believes a year is not enough to assess investment ability and urged subscribers to be more forgiving of investment successes and failures.
Burry's publicly disclosed portfolio of four long-term holdings (Lululemon, Molina Healthcare, Shift4 Payments, Fannie Mae) is down about 22%.
Oracle, which Burry bet against, has fallen 39.9% since he disclosed the position.
Among the software stocks Burry invested in, Veeva Systems has risen 93.8%, nearly doubling.
The public once mistakenly believed Burry's bearish position in Palantir had a nominal value of US$912.1 million; the actual cost was only US$9.2 million.
鮮活果汁-KY revenue for the first 10 months rises 38% year over year to NT$4.797 billion, surpassing last year's full-year total
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
鮮活果汁-KY reported revenue of NT$4.797 billion for the first 10 months of 2026, up 38% year over year and already exceeding last year's full-year total. The company continues to invest in developing ingredients for new tea drinks and is moving ahead with capacity expansion at its Kunshan plant to improve production efficiency and supply flexibility, while actively expanding its high-value-added products.
Facts
Revenue in October 2026 was NT$319 million, up 37.91% year over year.
Revenue for the first 10 months totaled NT$4.797 billion, up 38.09% year over year and exceeding the level for the same period last year.
Second-quarter revenue was NT$1.506 billion, gross margin was 33.44%, after-tax net profit was NT$205 million, and earnings per share were NT$5.74.
The company continues to expand capacity at its new Kunshan plant, improving production efficiency and supply flexibility.
The new tea drink industry is shifting from expansion and competition toward a focus on product differentiation and supply chain integration.
Rare two-month losing streak for US stocks: panic or buy the dip? Here's what history says
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The Motley Fool columnist Daniel Sparks noted that the S&P 500 posted losses in both September and October 2026, a rare occurrence. Historical data shows a high likelihood of gains over the subsequent year-end period and one year later. Although the current CAPE valuation of 41 times raises concerns, experts advise long-term investors to stick to disciplined dollar-cost averaging and avoid excessive optimism.
Facts
The US S&P 500 posted losses in both September and October this year, marking its first two-month losing streak since 2023.
Historical data dating back to 1950 shows that simultaneous declines in the S&P 500 in September and October are extremely rare, occurring only 17 times, including in 2026.
In 12 of the 16 historical cases since 1950, US stocks rose during the November-December year-end rally that followed, a 75% success rate.
Over the 12 months following a pullback, the historical results were even stronger: stocks reached a high one year later in 14 cases, an 87.5% success rate.
In early October 2026, the S&P 500's cyclically adjusted price-to-earnings ratio (CAPE) stood at about 41 times. The only comparable reading was 39 times during the dot-com bubble in 2000.
矽格 October revenue hits a record NT$2.1 billion; AI products expected to exceed 30%
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
矽格's October revenue reached NT$2.1 billion, a record high and up nearly 22% year over year. The company is actively developing EIC, PIC and optical engine testing technologies, and expects the share of AI products to exceed 30%, driving growth in 2027.
Facts
矽格's October revenue reached NT$2.1 billion, a record high for a single month.
矽格's October revenue increased nearly 22% from the same period last year.
矽格's revenue for the first 10 months totaled NT$19.45 billion, up 21% year over year.
矽格 is strategically entering the AI and photonic transmission packaging and testing market.
矽格 expects AI-related product applications to exceed 30%.
倚天酷碁 posts record first-three-quarter profit and October revenue; operations strengthen as Q4 peak season approaches
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
倚天酷碁 (2432-TW) announced its third-quarter financial results, with after-tax net profit for the first three quarters reaching NT$100 million, a record for the same period. October revenue also hit a record, rising 104% year over year. Buoyed by back-to-school purchasing and the investment synergies from Plugable, the North American market performed well, and operations are expected to remain strong during the fourth-quarter peak season.
Facts
倚天酷碁 posted third-quarter after-tax net profit of NT$51.42 million, with earnings per share of NT$0.83.
倚天酷碁's cumulative after-tax net profit for the first three quarters reached NT$100 million, a record for the same period.
倚天酷碁 reported October revenue of NT$517 million, up 104% year over year and a record for the same period in its history.
倚天酷碁 reported third-quarter revenue of NT$1.61 billion, up 24.2% quarter over quarter and 89.9% year over year.
倚天酷碁's new Li-Fi underwater optical communications handheld device won the 2026 Japan Good Design Award.
AI growth shows no signs of faltering; a chance to pick up diamonds on the cheap; 建榮, 高僑
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Taiwan stocks opened higher but fell amid foreign investor selling and election concerns, with bargain buying near the close helping pare losses. AI fundamentals remain strong. Investors are advised to focus on growth sectors such as CPO, AI cybersecurity and equipment, adopting a stock-picking-over-market-timing strategy.
Facts
Taiwan stocks closed down 358 points at 42,948, with trading value of about NT$1.12 trillion.
September export orders reached $114.21 billion, up 62.4% year over year.
AMD reported third-quarter revenue of $13.4 billion, while revenue at its data center segment rose 97% year over year.
The Marvell acquisition of Lumentum has an enterprise value of about $115 billion.
S&P Global forecasts that major cloud providers will invest more than $1.3 trillion in AI infrastructure in 2027.
Companies mentioned：費半、AMD、Marvell、Lumentum、眾達-KY、GIS-KY、廣寰科、大世科、驊宏資、晉泰、華經、訊達、全景軟、瀧澤科、東台、恩德、高僑、彬台、穎漢、協易機、國巨、華新科、金山電、建榮、三福化、泓瀚、上品、倫元投顧、S&P Global
5G penetration among smartphone users is nearly 50%, while mobile service revenue rose 2.9% year over year.
ICT revenue rose 19% year over year, while new ICT orders in the third quarter increased 84% year over year.
International circuit revenue rose 33% year over year. Satellite-related revenue increased 9.8% year over year, and cumulative satellite contract value exceeded NT$250 million.
Global stock markets keep sliding; 南山人壽's Fan Wen-wei analyzes 2 reasons and remains cautiously optimistic about Taiwan stocks over the long term
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
南山人壽 launched the 南山未來大學 program. General manager 范文偉 said global stock markets are being affected by gaps in AI capital spending and US political developments, but remains cautiously optimistic about Taiwan stocks over the long term and stressed the importance of strengthening social resilience.
Facts
南山人壽 announced on the 4th that it had officially launched the 南山未來大學 (Nan Shan Next.) program.
范文偉 said that overall capital spending by US tech giants and the AI industry rose sharply in the fourth quarter, creating a significant shortfall in operating cash flow.
Observers generally believe Democrats are more committed to fiscal discipline, and may therefore be relatively cautious about future government fiscal support and backing for the AI industry.
南山人壽 general manager 范文偉 is cautiously optimistic about Taiwan's stock market over the long term.
范文偉 noted that powerful typhoons struck as late as the end of October and even in November, showing that climate change is a real and increasingly serious risk.
〈US midterm elections〉Trump becomes a lame duck after the vote: legislation blocked, investigations ramp up, and the shadow of a third impeachment returns
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
With the US midterm elections decided, Democrats have retaken majorities in both chambers of Congress, leaving Trump to face a divided government in his second term. On legislation, Democrats can use budget reconciliation to advance measures affecting everyday life and block Republican proposals. The return of oversight powers also exposes Trump to mounting investigations into matters including his family's finances and the implementation of his policies.
Facts
Democrats retook majorities in both the House and Senate in the midterm elections.
Democrats can use budget reconciliation to bypass lengthy debate requirements and address spending, taxes and the debt ceiling.
Democrats have revived substantive investigations into the Trump administration, covering family stock trades and the Epstein files.
A change of control in the Senate will stall confirmation of Cabinet members, judges, ambassadors and other appointees.
Trump was impeached twice during his first term but was not convicted.
AMD books $1.07 billion in non-cash charges! Equity-linked AI chip deals with OpenAI and Meta could dilute shareholders
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
超微半導體 booked $1.07 billion in non-cash charges in the third quarter after signing chip purchase agreements with OpenAI and Meta that include equity warrants, raising concerns about shareholder dilution.
Facts
超微半導體 booked $1.07 billion in non-cash charges in the third quarter
超微半導體 agreed to supply Meta with up to $60 billion worth of AI chips over five years
If the warrants are exercised, OpenAI and Meta could acquire substantial equity stakes in 超微半導體
Will US stocks see a year-end Santa Claus rally? What the S&P 500's historical record says
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Investing.com analyzed historical data on the U.S. stock market’s Christmas rally and found that the S&P 500 rose during the period 75% of the time, although this did not happen in 2024. The article emphasized that corporate earnings and macroeconomic policy have a greater impact on the market than seasonal patterns.
Facts
Since the 1950s, the S&P 500 has risen during the Christmas rally observation period in about 75% of years.
The S&P 500 has gained an average of about 1.4% during the Christmas rally period.
The S&P 500 fell 0.9% during the Christmas rally observation period in 2024.
Historically, the fourth quarter has been the strongest-performing quarter, with gains in about 80% of years.
At Tuesday’s close, the S&P 500 stood at 7,568.92 points, up more than 10% year to date.
Katie Stockton of Fairlead said the rally arrived early.
Billionaire Cuban advises, “Keep cash on hand”; the real opportunity to make big money comes after a market reversal
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Billionaire Mark Cuban advised investors on a podcast to keep cash on hand amid the rally in AI stocks and wait to enter the market after a reversal. Citing Munger’s principle of delayed gratification, he said individual stocks are now moving like meme stocks, and that holding cash can provide opportunities to buy during a downturn.
Facts
Billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban offered investment advice on the podcast The Diary of a CEO.
Cuban urged investors to be patient and keep cash on hand as AI-related stocks surge.
Original庫班以新冠疫情期間的市場動盪為例，說明在大舉買進後大賺一筆的經驗。
Cuban said individual stocks are increasingly moving like meme stocks, with small changes in news potentially triggering sharp share-price swings.
From an African American House speaker and a Native American woman senator to a Muslim senator: U.S. election produces multiple historic firsts
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The U.S. midterm elections produced historic breakthroughs for several politicians from ethnic minorities and the LGBTQ+ community, including the first African American House speaker, the first Black woman governor, and the first Native American woman governor and senator.
Facts
Hakeem Jeffries will become the next speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, making him the first African American speaker in U.S. history.
Keisha Lance Bottoms won the Georgia gubernatorial election, becoming the first Black woman governor in the 250-year history of the United States.
Deb Haaland won the New Mexico governorship, becoming the first Native American woman governor in the United States.
Peggy Flanagan became the first Native American woman U.S. senator.
Chris Pappas won a Senate seat, becoming the first openly gay man to serve as a U.S. senator.
Abdul El-Sayed announced that he had defeated his Republican opponent; if confirmed, he will become the first Muslim U.S. senator.
U.S. midterm elections: Democrats poised for a major victory! Iran’s parliament speaker says voters used their ballots to say “no to war”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Democrats are projected to win the U.S. midterm elections, and Iran’s parliament speaker said voters oppose war. Trump attributed the Republican defeat to the war with Iran but maintained that launching it was the right decision. Washington is preparing to resume military action, while Democrats plan to introduce a binding resolution to end the conflict.
Facts
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said U.S. voters had made clear that they “do not want war.”
Trump acknowledged that the war with Iran was one factor in the Republican election defeat.
The United States is preparing for a possible resumption of military action against Iran after the midterm elections.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei called on the armed forces to respond to any threat.
Hong Kong stocks after the close: strong rebound, Hang Seng gains nearly 400 points; gold, biomedicine and optical communications lead gains
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Hong Kong stocks rebounded strongly on October 4, with the Hang Seng Index gaining nearly 400 points. Gold, biomedicine and optical communications sectors led the gains, reflecting inflows of safe-haven funds and positive earnings news.
Facts
The Hang Seng Index surged 393 points, or 1.67%, to close at 23,919.50 points.
赤峰黃金 surged more than 18%, 靈寶黃金 gained more than 17%, and 紫金黃金國際 rose more than 14%
藥明合聯 surged more than 13%, 康龍化成 jumped 13.00%, and 藥明康德 and 藥明生物 soared 12.39% and 12.22%, respectively
海光芯正 surged more than 26%, while 芯碁微裝 and 廣合科技 rose more than 18% and 15%, respectively
中泰國際 recommends overweighting the information technology, energy and healthcare sectors
Junk bonds suffer a Wall Street bloodbath! Corporate debt comes due as CLOs face risk-control crisis
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
The high-yield bond market suffered a Wall Street bloodbath, with yields on CCC-rated bonds nearing 20%, reflecting mounting credit risks. A wave of maturing debt, soaring refinancing costs and private equity funds using weak covenants to transfer assets have left vulnerable companies struggling to refinance. Risks could spread through CLOs to the leveraged-loan and private-credit markets.
Facts
U.S. nonfinancial corporate debt financing totals about $14.5 trillion, including about $1.5 trillion in high-yield bonds.
The average yield on CCC-rated bonds has neared 20%, signaling rapidly mounting credit risks.
The private-credit market is worth about $2 trillion and lacks publicly available market quotes.
S&P tracking data show that in 2021, EBITDA adjustments accounted for 32% of management’s projected EBITDA.
CLO covenants generally set 7.5% as the threshold for the maximum share of CCC-rated assets.
Distressed-debt investors have historically been willing to pay 70 to 80 cents on the dollar for distressed bonds, anticipating recovery rates of 40 to 60 cents.
In a recent restructuring by telecom giant Altice, the controlling shareholder used covenants to designate profitable subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries, taking them outside the scope of the guarantees.
Stock market volatility intensifies, with a near-6% drop! Non-investment-grade bonds rise against the trend, yielding more than 9% annualized
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
Taiwan stocks fell nearly 6% in October under the impact of external factors, and the market turned volatile. Non-investment-grade bond ETFs such as 00988B rose against the trend, buoyed by a high annualized distribution rate of about 9.3%, becoming an important allocation for investors seeking to diversify risk and earn income.
Facts
The Taiwan Stock Exchange Weighted Index fell about 5.69% in October.
元大 Taiwan 50 (0050) had a total return of about -6.34% in October.
玉山 Select Non-Investment-Grade Bond (00988B) has an estimated annualized distribution rate of about 9.3%.
國泰 Preferred Non-Investment-Grade Bond (00727B) has an annualized distribution rate of about 8.77%.
第一金 U.S. Dollar Preferred Non-Investment-Grade Bond (00981B) has an annualized distribution rate of about 8.47%.
China stocks after the close: “national team” intervention boosts market; three major indexes stage afternoon rally, ChiNext surges 6.4%
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
China’s A-shares staged a sharp afternoon rebound on Wednesday, buoyed by support from the national team and an interest-rate cut by the central bank. The STAR 50 Index surged nearly 10%, all three major indexes rose, and turnover topped 2 trillion yuan again, signaling a recovery in market confidence.
Facts
China’s three major A-share indexes opened lower and climbed on Wednesday, all rebounding in the afternoon.
The STAR 50 Index surged 9.92%.
The Shanghai Composite Index closed up 2.16% at 3,686.17 points, the Shenzhen Component Index gained 4.22% to 11,335.69 points, and the ChiNext Index rose 6.4% to 2,544.73 points.
Turnover on the Shanghai and Shenzhen markets totaled RMB 2.04 trillion, up RMB 334.3 billion from the previous trading day.
China's central bank announced that the interest rate on relending for share buybacks and increased holdings would be cut from 1.25% to 1%.
The 9 mainstream ETFs favored by the “national team” saw net inflows of as much as RMB 76.7 billion on Tuesday.
Applications submitted by banks for relending to fund share buybacks and increased holdings have exceeded RMB 200 billion.
Precious metals, semiconductors and computing hardware stocks surged across the board in afternoon trading.
Financing for China's robotics industry slows to US$1.6 billion as the sector enters the “commercialization test” phase
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 鉅亨網
In October 2026, financing for China's embodied intelligence sector fell to RMB 11 billion, signaling growing caution in capital markets. The industry has entered the commercialization test phase, with companies needing to prove ROI. Only leading companies can secure liquidity, while higher barriers for startups have led to a decline in their numbers.
Facts
The embodied intelligence sector saw 33 fundraising deals in October 2026, totaling about RMB 11 billion.
Financing in October 2026 was nearly halved compared with September.
Inno Angel Fund partner Mavis Wu said industry consolidation is already underway.
Omdia chief analyst Lian Jye Su said current technology development and real-world deployment have yet to fully meet market expectations.
松禾資本 managing partner Wang Yang said listing reviews are placing greater emphasis on companies' ability to achieve substantive commercialization.
優艾智合 has a repeat-purchase rate of more than 70% among customers in vertical industrial sectors.
Financing for China's robotics industry reached a record RMB 185 billion in 2026.
Democrats won gubernatorial races in Texas, Georgia and Ohio. The incoming governors support tighter controls or a pause on AI data center development, raising market concerns about tighter regulation and driving down technology and supply-chain stocks. Texas faces risks to 13GW of capacity.
Facts
Hinojosa was elected governor of Texas and pledged to freeze data center reviews until legislation protecting residents' interests is passed.
About 13GW of data center capacity in Texas is at risk, equivalent to the power needed to supply about 10 million households at the same time.
S&P 500 futures fell as much as 1.2%, while Nasdaq 100 futures dropped 2.2%.
Original南韓三星電子與SK海力士股價一度下跌4%，台積電也走跌。
Texas accounts for nearly 30% of the data center capacity scheduled to come online across the United States in 2028.
Jefferies raised its political risk assessment for data center development in Texas from Level 3 to Level 4.
益安生醫's minimally invasive device for enlarged prostate receives Taiwan marketing approval, advancing commercialization in Taiwan and the U.S. - Global Bio & Investment Monthly
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 環球生技月刊
Urocross, a minimally invasive medical device developed by 益安生醫 to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, has received marketing approval from Taiwan's TFDA. The company will advance commercialization in Taiwan and the U.S. while pursuing international licensing plans.
Facts
益安生醫 (6499)
Original2026年3月取得美國食品藥物管理局(FDA)510(k)上市許可
and completed its first U.S. commercial application in October
About half of men aged 60 show histological evidence of prostate enlargement
The proportion rises to 70% to 80% among men aged 70 and older
The number of people in Taiwan who sought medical care for enlarged prostate in 2025