Celebrating ラグジュアリーカード’s 10th anniversary in Japan | 4-day limited pop-up lounge event in Harajuku and Omotesando
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ラグジュアリーカード will mark its 10th anniversary in Japan with a 4-day pop-up lounge event at LIFORK Harajuku in Harajuku and Omotesando from November 26 to 29, 2026. Champagne and light refreshments will be served to members, with a range of programs including a swordsmith talk, live performances, yoga and a session with Major League Baseball player Masataka Yoshida.
Facts
10th anniversary in Japan
4 days only
Thursday, Nov. 26, 2026
Sunday, Nov. 29
5,000 yen per person
2,000 yen per person
Talk session: 7,000 yen
60,000 yen
Began issuing cards in Japan in 2016
Founded in the United States in 2008
Companies mentioned：ラグジュアリーカード合同会社、ラグジュアリーカード、LIFORK、西川株式会社、テタンジェ、Bowers & Wilkins、瀬戸内市観光協会、株式会社KINS、a flood of circle、GOETHE
ターキッシュ エアラインズ further strengthens its China network with the launch of service to Chengdu
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ターキッシュ エアラインズ will launch scheduled service on the Chengdu route (Istanbul–Chengdu) on Nov. 11, 2026, bringing its number of destinations in mainland China to 4.
“JAPAN AI” supports domestic inference with “GPT-6 Luna”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
JAPAN AI株式会社 today began offering a configuration of its enterprise AI platform “JAPAN AI” that performs inference processing in Japan using OpenAI’s AI model “GPT-6 Luna”.
[Kobe Portopia Hotel] Gourmet fair “Meat Selection: A Winter Feast for Meat Lovers” to be held at the hotel’s restaurants starting Nov. 21!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社神戸ポートピアホテル will hold the “Meat Selection: A Winter Feast for Meat Lovers” gourmet fair at its restaurants from Nov. 21, 2026, through Jan. 8, 2027.
“No-wan Official Shop,” an e-commerce site selling official merchandise for popular YouTuber “のーわん,” to grand open at 18:00 on Thursday, Nov. 12!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
and factory株式会社 held the grand opening of “のーわんオフィシャルショップ,” an e-commerce site selling official merchandise for popular YouTuber “のーわん,” at 18:00 on Nov. 12, 2026.
A “snack bar” is coming to ジャンカラ Suminoe Koen Station Front! Enjoy nostalgic snacks all-you-can-eat with no time limit!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社TOAI, operator of the karaoke chain ジャンカラ, announced that it will introduce “Snack Bar,” an all-you-can-eat snack service with no time limit, at ジャンカラ Suminoe Koen Station Front in Suminoe Ward, Osaka, starting Nov. 13, 2026.
Bring baby’s “usual sleeping spot” anywhere. The HugNest bed-in-bed, developed by a mom and midwife and featured in videos with more than 3.4 million total views on social media, gets a new gray color on Nov. 12 [GOKUMIN]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Bedding brand “GOKUMIN” from 株式会社KURUKURU will launch a new gray color for “HugNest,” a bed-in-bed developed by a mom and a midwife, on Nov. 12, 2026. It has drawn attention, with more than 3.4 million total views on social media.
Facts
On sale from Thursday, November 12, 2026
The introduction video has been viewed more than 800,000 times
Videos with more than 400,000 views have been created
[おうちにプロ] Survey on concerns about air conditioner installation and choosing a contractor
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
おうちにプロ, operated by 株式会社ゼロアクセル, conducted an independent survey on concerns about air conditioner installation and choosing a contractor. A survey of 100 people found that many were concerned about additional charges and costs, that electronics retailers were the most commonly used option for finding a contractor, and that reviews placed importance on price and careful service.
Facts
Number of survey respondents: 100
Have hired someone to install a new air conditioner: 58
Whether additional charges will apply: 65
Electronics retailers: 62
Whether the installation fee matches the estimate: 69
Take down your opponent’s castle with “Nyanko” cards! The new trading card game from The Battle Cats, “Nyanko The Card Game,” brings intense tabletop battles and launches Friday, March 26, 2027!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ポノス株式会社 announced that it will release “Nyanko The Card Game,” a trading card game based on The Battle Cats, on March 26, 2027.
A rehearsal report on “eatBeat,” the new production in the 22nd dish series by dance entertainment group 梅棒. The article introduces the story, themed around a cooking battle, the cast’s performances, and details on the performance schedule and tickets.
Facts
梅棒 22nd dish
S seats: ¥9,000
S seats (Tokyo performances on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays): ¥10,000
【ＦリーグTV × ニコニコ生放送】 Free live stream of “Nagano vs. Urayasu” on Sunday, Nov. 15! 【メットライフ生命Ｆリーグ2026-27 Division 1】
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The 一般社団法人日本フットサルトップリーグ announced that the match between ボアルース長野 and バルドラール浦安, scheduled for Nov. 15, will be streamed live for free on ニコニコ生放送 and ＦリーグTV, operated by 株式会社ドワンゴ.
WILDSIDE and texnh have teamed up for their first collaboration. Pursuing the ideal black and functional beauty, they will launch a daypack and shoulder bag on Wednesday, Nov. 18.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ヨウジヤマモト project WILDSIDE and brand texnh have joined forces for their first collaboration, launching a daypack and shoulder bag that pursue the ideal black on Nov. 18.
Originalアイドルマスター シンデレラガールズ×よこはまコスモワールド・YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN 2026が開催決定！
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社コンテンツシード will hold a collaboration event featuring “The Idolmaster Cinderella Girls” and Yokohama Cosmo World and YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN starting Nov. 13, 2026, with new merchandise, a stamp rally and more.
Facts
Friday, Nov. 13, 2026
The series marks its 15th anniversary in 2026
Featuring a total of 190 unique idols
More than 300 songs have been created to date
Companies mentioned：株式会社コンテンツシード、Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc.
にじさんじ merchandise “Nijisanji Decora Mode PART3” is here! Sales begin at 18:00 on Friday, Nov. 13, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Merchandise themed around decora fashion, “Nijisanji Decora Mode PART3,” from the VTuber group にじさんじ, operated by ANYCOLOR株式会社, will go on sale from 18:00 on Nov. 13, 2026. Six participating livers will be featured, with 9 types of merchandise, including cards and acrylic stands.
New merchandise from the TV anime “幼女戦記Ⅱ,” including a T-shirt featuring Tanya in a nose-art style design! 【株式会社コスパ】
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社コスパ will release new merchandise from the TV anime “幼女戦記Ⅱ” in early February 2027, including a T-shirt featuring Tanya in a nose-art style design and an M-51 jacket bearing the insignia of the 第二〇三魔導大隊.
【Pixio】Bring your favorite colors to your charging setup. The PXAUTC desktop charging hub gets new blue and pink colors
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hamee株式会社 will add blue and pink to the color lineup of the PXAUTC desktop charging hub from gaming accessories brand Pixio, with sales beginning Nov. 13, 2026.
Alternative rock band life crown, from western Tokyo along the Seibu Shinjuku Line, to hold a self-produced live event. New song “完璧じゃなくていい” is also streaming!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Alternative rock band life crown, from western Tokyo along the Seibu Shinjuku Line, will hold its self-produced live event “PARAMOUNT CHAPTER3” at 吉祥寺WARP on Dec. 11. The lineup includes life crown, Apes and deardoll. The new song “完璧じゃなくていい” is also streaming.
The synopsis, preview stills, staff and trailer for Episode 31, “めざせ、和風男溺泉,” of Season 3 of the TV anime “らんま1/2” have been revealed! A watch party will also be held on X Spaces on Nov. 21 at 25:00!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Details, staff information and preview stills for Episode 31 of Season 3 of the TV anime “らんま1/2” have been revealed, and a watch party will be held on X Spaces on Nov. 21.
Yo-Sea’s “Beyond the Sea BANDSET LIVE -FREE TIDE-” to stream exclusively on U-NEXT!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
U-NEXT, the video streaming service operated by 株式会社U-NEXT, announced that it will exclusively stream singer-songwriter Yo-Sea’s special live show “Beyond the Sea BANDSET LIVE -FREE TIDE-” on Dec. 4, 2026.
Facts
Enjoy more than 500,000 movies, dramas, anime titles, and more
It also offers more than 1.37 million manga and books
Live stream: Dec. 4, 2026, 19:00 until the live show ends
Catch-up stream: Available once preparations are complete through Dec. 20, 2026, 23:59
Following the service integration with Paravi in July 2023
株式会社クリーク・アンド・リバー社 announced a free online English conversation seminar for the creative industry, “Chris’s Lunchtime English Conversation [Special Edition]—Christmas Around the World,” to be held every Wednesday in December.
“クレイヴ・サーガ 神絆の導師” launches “天使塔覇戦,” a cooperative user event! Event-linked gacha and limited-time packs also go on sale!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The cooperative user event “天使塔覇戦” launched on November 12 in the RPG “クレイヴ・サーガ 神絆の導師,” operated by 合同会社EXNOA, along with event-linked gacha and limited-time packs.
Facts
Starting today, November 12 (Thursday)
Until November 20 (Friday) at 12:59
Unlocking the 3rd weapon slot
Introduced in Chapter 18
Two water-element Super 神絆魂友 characters, too
EXCEED神器 gacha starting November 20
Choose 5 featured characters
The 150th pull guarantees a selected featured character
[Students × local businesses] “キタくるスタンド,” an original cycle stand for the Wakamatsu North Coast, is complete!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kitakyushu City aims to develop the Wakamatsu North Coast area as a tourist destination. An original cycle stand, “キタくるスタンド,” made in collaboration by students from 北九州市立大学 and local company 株式会社樫本商店, is complete. Installation will begin on November 19.
[E-Guardian] Signs share transfer agreement to acquire Pentio and make it a wholly owned subsidiary
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
イー・ガーディアン株式会社 has signed a share transfer agreement to acquire shares in ペンティオ株式会社 and make it a wholly owned subsidiary. The acquisition is scheduled for December 1, 2026, as the company seeks to expand its business base in cybersecurity and enhance corporate value.
EpicAI to present research on quality assessment of AI-generated fault tree analysis (FTA) at the Japanese Society for Quality Control
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社EpicAI will present research findings on quality assessment of fault tree analysis (FTA) using LLM as a Judge at the annual conference of the Japanese Society for Quality Control, to be held at 慶應義塾大学 on November 14, 2026.
Shinanoya’s “Food Exploration Seminar: Special Edition” to be held at Toranomon Hills cask on Saturday, December 12, to celebrate the launch of “Yamamori 2026,” an original natural sake from パタゴニア プロビジョンズ!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社信濃屋食品 will hold a special edition of its “Food Exploration Seminar” at Toranomon Hills cask on December 12 to celebrate the launch of “Yamamori 2026,” an original natural sake from パタゴニア プロビジョンズ.
Facts
19 stores in total
Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026
Participation fee: 6,000 yen
Yamamori 2026, 720 ml: ¥3,520
Yamamori 2026 Mini, 150 ml: ¥990
A sake brewery founded in 1711
Founded as a liquor store in Daita, Setagaya Ward, in 1930
An update on the penguin chicks born this season at アドベンチャーワールド
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
アドベンチャーワールド in Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture, reported the birth of 8 penguin chicks this season: 3 Northern rockhopper penguins and 5 gentoo penguins. 3 of the chicks have died, and 5 are currently being raised.
Philippines to host ASEAN summit as multiple groups protest Trump visit
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Philippines will host the 49th ASEAN summit, which U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend. Student and civil society groups staged demonstrations in Manila to protest Trump’s visit, criticize his immigration policies and oppose the U.S.-led “Pax Silica” initiative, expressing concern that resources could be plundered.
Facts
The 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit
will be held in Manila from the 15th to 17th
U.S. President Donald Trump will attend on the 17th
TAIWAN AI RAP platform from 國研院國網中心 helps bring AI into travel recommendations, generates itineraries by analyzing footwear styles
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國研院國網中心’s TAIWAN AI RAP platform integrates computing resources and model services to help businesses and local revitalization groups adopt AI applications. 金魚厝邊 launched its “金朋派AI旅程服務站” to analyze footwear styles and recommend itineraries in Toucheng, Yilan; it logged more than 1250 check-ins in its first week. 酇侯資訊 launched the “港都AI智慧微旅行平台,” which supports multilingual translation and trip planning and has been downloaded 3000 times.
Facts
More than 1250 people
A total of 3000 times
Including 8 languages
More than 200 stores now listed
Companies mentioned：國研院國網中心、TAIWAN AI RAP、金魚厝邊、酇侯資訊、LINE
華碩 posts record EPS of NT$29.1 in Q3, targets strong server growth next year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
華碩 posted record earnings per share of NT$29.1 in Q3, with server revenue doubling. Looking ahead to 2027, it is targeting high double-digit to triple-digit growth in servers, while the PC market is expected to decline.
Facts
Achieved 100% growth from doubling
At least 150% year-on-year
Combined brand revenue reached NT$258.788 billion
Operating profit was NT$21.964 billion
Net profit attributable to owners of the parent was NT$21.631 billion
General-purpose CPU server revenue rose 80% year-on-year
Reached 20% of server revenue
華碩 PC revenue still rose more than 25% year-on-year
The overall PC market is expected to decline by 10% to 15%
公督盟: Donation system attacked; personal data may have leaked, safeguards activated
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
公民監督國會聯盟（公督盟） announced that an overseas IP address attacked the donation system operated by its outsourced vendor, potentially exposing donors’ personal information, including names, phone numbers and records. It has activated protective measures and urged the public to beware of scams.
The UK’s GDP grew 0.7% in Q3 from the previous quarter, as the AI boom lifted the services and computer programming industries, offsetting the impact of conflict in the Middle East. 英格蘭銀行 raised its GDP growth forecasts for 2026 and 2027.
Facts
Gross domestic product (GDP) grew 0.7% in Q3 from the previous quarter
Above the revised 0.5% in Q2
Raised the ... gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast for 2026 to 1.6%
The gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast for 2027 to ... 1.3%
Israeli airstrike hits Gaza hospital, killing 6 and injuring more than 20
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An Israeli airstrike on Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza killed 6 and injured more than 20. The Israeli military said the target was Hamas members, while 哈瑪斯 condemned the attack as a war crime.
AI cyberattacks intensify; 金管會 cybersecurity chiefs’ meeting focuses on 4 key areas
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
金管會 convened a meeting of financial sector cybersecurity chiefs and outlined four areas for strengthening defenses amid a rise in AI cyberattacks: solidifying cybersecurity fundamentals, dynamically prioritizing vulnerability fixes, securing board support for cybersecurity resources, and cautiously adopting defensive AI. Regarding isolated abnormal transfer incidents at 華南銀行 and 台北富邦銀行, 金管會’s preliminary assessment is that they are individual cases, unlike the hacking incident involving 永豐銀行.
Facts
Holds cybersecurity chiefs’ meetings 2 times a year
Photography exhibition preserves fashion across eras; family portraits are stylish too
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國家攝影文化中心 has opened the “時尚流聲” exhibition, curated by 鄧博仁, a faculty member in the design department at 國立台灣科技大學. Through family photographs, street photography and works by photographers including 莊靈 and 鄧南光, it explores fashion and self-expression across the ages.
金管會: Taiwan and Singapore tie for 3rd in 2026 Asia corporate governance assessment
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
金管會 said the 亞洲公司治理協會’s 2026 assessment ranked Taiwan and Singapore tied for 3rd, with Taiwan’s total score rising to 67.4 points. It trailed Australia and Japan mainly because the proportion of dissenting votes was low and insurance companies’ voting rights were restricted.
Blue and white camp proposes phasing out coal-fired units at 中火 by year-end 117; 台電工會 strongly protests
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Kuomintang and Taiwan People’s Party caucuses in the Legislative Yuan have proposed requiring all coal-fired units at 台中電廠 to be retired by the end of year 117. 台電工會 strongly protested, saying the move would affect power supply stability and employees’ rights, and warned it could stage protests and surround the Legislative Yuan.
Flying 4700 kilometers, globally endangered Nordmann’s greenshank spotted at Jiangjun Wetlands for 11th consecutive year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Staff from 台南市野鳥學會 found a Nordmann’s greenshank, a globally endangered bird species, at Jiangjun Wetlands, marking its appearance for the 11th consecutive year since it was first recorded in 2016. The bird flies about 4700 kilometers south to winter, highlighting the importance of Jiangjun Wetlands along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. A 2023 survey recorded 112 bird species and 9萬4701 birds across the Qigu-Jiangjun salt fields, demonstrating the wetlands’ high biodiversity and conservation value.
Stan Shih to represent Taiwan at APEC; Lin Chia-lung: We will not give up opportunities to participate internationally
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting will be held in Shenzhen, China. Acer founder Stan Shih was asked by President Lai Ching-te to serve as Taiwan’s representative. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung said Taiwan is a full APEC member with equal participation rights and will never give up any opportunity to make its voice heard internationally. He also praised Shih’s technology background and international experience as well suited to the agenda.
Facts
2026 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting
To be held in Shenzhen, China, on the 18th and 19th
There are currently 21 member economies
Taiwan joined in 1991 under the name Chinese Taipei
Megaspeed’s involvement in 輝達 chip procurement prompts hiring of U.S. law firm to investigate export controls
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Singapore data center operator Megaspeed, embroiled in a dispute over 輝達 chip procurement, has hired a U.S. law firm to review export controls and cooperate with a U.S. government review.
Facts
2015
1151112
Companies mentioned：輝達、NVIDIA、Megaspeed、7Road International、美國商務部工業暨安全局、新加坡會計與企業管制局、中央社、聯合早報、海峽時報、The Straits Times
Crash on Hsinchu City’s Jingguan Boulevard sends 6 to hospital; 1 in cardiac arrest
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
An SUV and a van collided on Jingguan Boulevard in Hsinchu City’s Xiangshan District this afternoon, sending 6 people to the hospital. The 54-year-old van driver was trapped and had no breathing or heartbeat (OHCA) when rescued.
Facts
A total of 6 people were sent to the hospital
The 54-year-old van driver
A public report was received shortly before 5 p.m. today
Container shipping’s 3 giants ride peak-season demand; Evergreen earns more than 3 times its share capital in first 3 quarters
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Financial results for the first 3 quarters from the 3 container shipping giants Evergreen, Yang Ming and Wan Hai showed growth in both volume and prices, thanks to sustained booking demand from Europe and the United States during peak season and port congestion. Evergreen earned more than 3 times its share capital in the first 3 quarters, while profits at Yang Ming and Wan Hai also grew significantly. Each company expressed an optimistic or stable outlook for market momentum in the 4th quarter and outlined fleet adjustment plans.
Facts
長榮海運 reported earnings per share of NT$21.53 in the 3rd quarter
長榮海運 reported consolidated revenue of NT$338.449 billion in the first 3 quarters
Net profit attributable to owners of the parent was NT$70.953 billion
陽明海運 reported consolidated revenue of NT$64.147 billion in the 3rd quarter
Consolidated revenue for the first 3 quarters was NT$148.731 billion
Net profit attributable to owners of the parent was NT$25.735 billion
Cumulative EPS was NT$7.37
萬海航運 reported consolidated revenue of NT$59.615 billion in the 3rd quarter
After-tax net profit attributable to the parent was NT$21.793 billion
Consolidated revenue for the first 3 quarters was NT$136.156 billion
After-tax net profit attributable to the parent was NT$40.999 billion
Cumulative earnings per share reached NT$14.61
Plans to take delivery of 42 new ships between 2027 and 2030
Capacity will increase by about 475,000 TEU starting this year
Election race heats up as Yu Shu-chen and Wei Chia-hsien present policies; 國民黨 members voice support for Chang Chun
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Hualien County governor’s race is heating up. Independent candidate Chang Chun released a video recalling that he once used lottery winnings to cover expenses at the 國民黨 county party office, drawing support from party members. 國民黨 candidate Yu Shu-chen canvassed in southern Hualien and proposed combining religion with tourism, while independent candidate Wei Chia-hsien advocated at 國立東華大學 for including student representatives from colleges and universities in public decision-making.
Facts
During 2 years as head of the 國民黨 Hualien County chapter
Taitung students mistakenly given 莫德納 COVID-19 vaccines instead of flu shots
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The health center in Dawu Township, Taitung County, mistakenly administered 莫德納 COVID-19 vaccines to 16 students due to an operational error while giving flu shots to 8th- and 9th-grade students at Dawu Junior High School. No students had shown abnormal reactions as of tonight. Health authorities have notified parents and will monitor the students’ health for at least 2 weeks.
Consumers’ Foundation tests children’s toys and products; heavy metals exceed limits in watches, rings and necklaces
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Consumers’ Foundation tested 30 children’s toys and products sold on the market and found excessive levels of heavy metals (lead, cadmium and chromium) in 3 samples, including watches, rings and necklaces. It also said a high proportion of products on online platforms had labeling that failed to meet regulations, and recommended more frequent customs and market sampling.
Facts
30 samples
Test results for 27 samples were below the maximum limits
The remaining 3 samples exceeded the maximum limits
誠美材 to scale back polarizer business and pivot to advanced semiconductor packaging materials
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
誠美材 Chairperson Sung Yen-yi said that, amid intense competition and falling orders in the panel polarizer market, the company will gradually scale back its core business and pivot to advanced semiconductor packaging materials, focusing on wafer dicing and grinding tapes, with shipments expected to begin between the second half of 2027 and 2028. The polarizer business will also shift toward higher-value products for automotive applications and OLEDs.
Facts
Shipments expected between the second half of 2027 and 2028
Aims for the products to account for 4 tenths of its overall polarizer business in the 4th quarter of 2027
Semiconductor capital expenditure of NT$800 million from the 2nd quarter to the 3rd quarter of 2026
Additional capital expenditure of about NT$1.8 billion for 2026 to 2028
‘Rookie newcomer’ Yang Sheng-de takes on fried rice vermicelli and experiences the appeal of Taiwanese cuisine firsthand
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwanese-American actor Yang Sheng-de took part in Order Up with Hudson Yang, a reality series co-produced by TaiwanPlus and Beach House. In New Taipei, Hsinchu and other locations, he learned to cook Taiwanese dishes, including fried rice vermicelli, making meatballs and frying chicken cutlets, experiencing Taiwan’s food culture firsthand.
Facts
The series has 8 episodes
3rd-generation successor
Companies mentioned：中央社、TaiwanPlus、Fremantle、Beach House
Visa survey: AI shopping assistants have an average test pass rate of just 56.6%
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Visa released results from tests of agentic AI shopping, with 22 models achieving an average pass rate of 56.6%, indicating there is still room for AI to reduce errors and improve reliability.
Facts
The average test pass rate was 56.6%.
The best-performing model had a pass rate of 82.2%.
The lowest rate was just 28.9%.
Just 33% passed all 3 tests.
The 5 AI models that identified the most potential purchase demand had an average pass rate of 68%.
The 5 models that identified the least potential purchase demand had a pass rate of just 44.4%.
The 5 AI models with the highest average cost per test had a pass rate of 65%.
The 5 lowest-cost models had a pass rate of 50%.
About 53% of the results showed that the AI ultimately decided to make a purchase.
Fireworks factory explosion in Dongshi, Chiayi; Indonesian migrant worker suffers burns and is rushed to hospital
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A gunpowder explosion occurred at a fireworks factory in Dongshi Township, Chiayi County, in the afternoon, leaving a 36-year-old Indonesian migrant worker with burns in multiple areas. The Fire Department rushed the worker to the hospital for emergency treatment. Police are investigating the cause of the incident.
Mainland Affairs Council spokesperson Liang Wen-chieh criticized the Taiwan Affairs Office's claim that transnational repression is a lie, saying it cannot withstand scrutiny. Citing the attack on Akio Yaita, the staged car accident involving Huang Yi-hao, and the surveillance of Puma Shen, he said the incidents bore signs of overseas funding and organized coordination and were not ordinary public-safety incidents or acts of righteous indignation.
Chiang Wan-an donates 1 month's salary and releases receipts, aiding 3 groups focused on animal welfare and social services
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chiang Wan-an and Puma Shen took leave to campaign in the 2026 local elections and donated their salaries for the period to social welfare, animal welfare and gender-equality groups. Shen donated NT$150,000 to 勵馨基金會. Chiang donated a total of NT$220,000, allocating NT$80,000 to 中華民國保護動物協會, NT$70,000 to 台北市康復之友協會 and NT$70,000 to 台灣展翅協會.
When will Taiwan stock market stabilization measures be lifted? 金管會: No preset position; adjustments will depend on conditions.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
金管會 said it would adjust the 5 major stock market stabilization measures introduced on November 9 as appropriate, in light of international financial conditions and changes in the domestic capital market. It has no preset position or timetable for lifting them.
Facts
5 major stock market stabilization measures
The value of securities lending sales accounted for between 1.7% and 2% of total market trading value.
Below the 2.97% recorded on November 6.
The value of securities lending sales was between NT$16.352 billion and NT$17.515 billion.
Below the NT$39.27 billion recorded on November 6.
Taiwan's 集中市場 rose 8.54%.
Japan rose 5.80%.
South Korea rose 5.28%.
The U.S. Nasdaq rose 3.61%.
The U.S. Philadelphia Semiconductor Index rose 12.50%.
Price-to-earnings ratio of about 24.92 times
Cash dividend yield of 1.63%
1.67% including stock dividends
Cumulative revenue of about NT$55.18 trillion.
Up 39.4% from the same period last year.
The overall maintenance ratio for margin trading collateral was 179.76%.
The securities firms' minimum margin call threshold of 130%.
Securities lending sales accounted for 1.87% of total market trading value.
AI demand fuels growth; Ministry of Economic Affairs estimates foreign purchases from Taiwan will hit a record US$325.8 billion this year
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Ministry of Economic Affairs said international companies are expected to purchase a record US$325.8 billion worth of goods from Taiwan this year, driven by demand for AI and high-performance computing. It also held the 2026 International Industrial Partners Awards for Excellence in Electronics and Information Technology, recognizing 22 leading foreign companies, including ASML, NVIDIA and Apple.
東元: AIDC orders exceed NT$10 billion; pursues opportunities in Malaysia, Thailand and Japan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
東元 General Manager Gao Feifeng said orders for artificial intelligence data centers (AIDC) are expected to exceed NT$10 billion this year, and the company is continuing to pursue opportunities in Malaysia, Thailand and Japan. Demand for large motors in the U.S. market is also rising, while orders for solar power in Taiwan and AIDCs in Southeast Asia are growing strongly.
Facts
Orders for artificial intelligence (AI) data centers (AIDC) are expected to exceed NT$10 billion this year.
Proof-of-concept work for a modular data center (MDC) in Malaysia is expected to be completed in mid-December.
Outlook for operations across the 4 major business groups in the fourth quarter.
Large-motor orders received in the first 10 months were up more than 2 tenths from the same period in 2025.
Orders for solar power and energy storage project construction in the first 10 months were up more than 2 times year on year.
Original累計前10月接單年增數倍
Installation and grid connection are proceeding at the Australian solar power and energy storage Tranche 1 project sites.
Plant construction is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.
By the end of October, 8 tenths of the orders had been secured.
Third-quarter profit attributable to owners of the parent was NT$1.758 billion.
Earnings per share were NT$0.75.
After-tax profit for the first 3 quarters totaled NT$5.582 billion.
Appears at campaign headquarters to back reelection bid; Chen Chien-chih: I believe Chiang Wan-an will do a good job
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former Taipei City Council Speaker Chen Chien-chih attended an event at Chiang Wan-an's campaign headquarters, saying he trusted and supported Chiang's reelection bid. Chiang thanked him for his longstanding support. Asked by the media about Puma Shen's visit to Chen, Chen said he wore the same outfit because he liked the clothes and stressed that he does not criticize officials now that he is retired.
智邦 approves Malaysia plant construction plan; first phase investment estimated at nearly US$138 million
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The board of 智邦科技 approved a plan to build a plant in Malaysia, with first-phase investment expected to reach nearly US$138 million. It also approved a plan for its Vietnam subsidiary to purchase additional equipment for US$42.75 million and a cleanroom plant project for its Singapore subsidiary costing about US$15.17 million. The board also approved the third-quarter financial statements; revenue for the first 3 quarters reached NT$286.402 billion.
Facts
Nearly US$138 million.
US$42.75 million.
About US$15.17 million.
NT$286.402 billion.
NT$32.468 billion.
NT$58.09.
Companies mentioned：智邦、Vietnam Accton Technology Company Limited、Accton Technology SG Pte Ltd.
Russia and Ukraine trade strikes on each other's capitals as U.S. envoy arrives in Moscow
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
U.S. envoy Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff arrived in Moscow and are expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. Earlier this morning, Russian and Ukrainian forces attacked each other's capitals. The two sides had concluded peace talks in Abu Dhabi just the previous day.
威世波 approves dissolution and liquidation of Vietnam subsidiary to improve operating efficiency
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Optical communications maker 威世波 announced that its board approved the dissolution and liquidation of its Vietnam subsidiary, Wavesplitter Technologies, Vietnam Ltd., as part of the group’s operational integration and resource allocation adjustments and to improve overall operating efficiency. The company’s October revenue was NT$110 million, up 26.1% year on year, while revenue for the first 10 months was NT$821 million, up 32.47%. Its new plant in Zhongli is expected to begin operations in the 4th quarter, with CW Laser Chip and CoC advanced packaging production lines.
Backing Chang Chia-chun, Chang San-cheng joins street canvassing; Ko Chih-en shares education policies
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chang Chia-chun, the Kuomintang’s Yunlin County magistrate candidate, received support from Taoyuan Mayor Chang San-cheng, who traveled south. The 2 sides outlined a vision for technology industry cooperation between Yunlin and Taoyuan. In the afternoon, Chang Chia-chun held a policy discussion on education with Ko Chih-en, a Kaohsiung mayoral candidate, addressing bilingual education, AI talent development and industry-academia cooperation.
Peking opera masters Yu Kuizhi and Li Shengsu lead cast in classic performances starting on the 17th
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Peking opera masters Yu Kuizhi and Li Shengsu will lead members of the 中國戲曲學院 in performances of several classic works at the 台北國家戲劇院 from the 17th to the 22nd.
For major achievements in investigating green energy bribery, Penghu chief prosecutor Tsai Shao-hsun named an exemplary civil servant
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Tsai Shao-hsun, chief prosecutor at the Penghu District Prosecutors Office, was honored as an exemplary civil servant by the Executive Yuan for achievements including investigating a green energy bribery case involving the head of Taixi Township in Yunlin County.
雄獅 nurtures restaurant business as a rising star; 欣食旅 aims for 2032 IPO
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
欣食旅, the restaurant business under 雄獅集團, continues to expand its footprint. Revenue is expected to reach NT$600 million this year, with plans to grow to 50 locations within 5 years and target an IPO in 2032.
Facts
Revenue expected to reach NT$600 million this year
Expand all brands to 50 locations
Target IPO in 2032
A total of 12 stores
Revenue of about NT$500 million last year
Target of NT$700 million next year
Revenue projected at about NT$2 billion in 2032
Labor shortage rate is about 20%
Consolidated revenue of NT$8.199 billion
Up 10.68% year on year
Down 1.59% quarter on quarter
Quarterly net profit attributable to owners of the parent after tax of NT$286 million
Earnings per share of NT$3.06
Revenue for the first 3 quarters totaled NT$24.66 billion
Up 10.08% year on year
Net profit attributable to owners of the parent after tax of NT$964 million
Earnings per share of NT$10.34
雄獅 October revenue of NT$2.989 billion
Up 2.73% from the same period last year
Revenue for the first 10 months of this year totaled NT$27.649 billion
台驊 earns NT$7.57 per share in first 3 quarters as ocean and air freight both grow
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台驊控股 earned NT$7.57 per share in the first 3 quarters, with growth in both its ocean and air freight businesses. 3rd-quarter operating profit rose 2.7 times year on year. Looking ahead to next year, it will deepen Asian cargo development and cross-regional cooperation and expand its North American operating footprint.
Facts
Up 2.7 times year on year
Earned NT$3.73 per share
NT$8.735 billion
Up 81.98% year on year
Operating profit of NT$435 million
Up 270.04% year on year
Net profit attributable to owners of the parent of NT$511 million
Up 194.08% year on year
Consolidated revenue of NT$20.155 billion
Up 25.63% year on year
Operating profit of NT$777 million
Up 35.52% year on year
Net profit attributable to owners of the parent of NT$1.036 billion
Up 30.32% year on year
Revenue of NT$13.243 billion
Up 31.66% year on year
Revenue of NT$5.141 billion
Up 23.51% year on year
Net non-operating income and expenses of about NT$503 million
Dividend income of about NT$254 million
Net gains on financial assets of about NT$196 million
School lunches to be upgraded; civic groups say 33 mayoral candidates in 20 counties and cities have pledged support
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
8 civic groups, including the Homemakers Union, launched the “School Lunch Upgrade Pledge Initiative.” As of 8 p.m. on the 9th, 33 candidates for mayors of special municipalities, counties and cities across 20 counties and cities had signed the pledge, including 16 from the Democratic Progressive Party, 11 from the Kuomintang, 1 from the Taiwan People’s Party and 5 independents.
Facts
8 civic groups
20 counties and cities
33 candidates for mayor of a special municipality or county/city magistrate
Cao Lan appears on “Who’s Coming to Dinner,” dubbed a crybaby; learns life lessons from Guangfu disaster victims
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Cao Lan visited disaster victims in Guangfu Township, Hualien, on the 公視 program “Who’s Coming to Dinner,” hearing Xiulian share stories of resilience after the disaster. Moved, she choked up several times and was dubbed a crybaby.
Crossing the sea to attend 國民黨’s Lienchiang anniversary celebration, Han Kuo-yu: Happy to help Lienchiang County
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國民黨 legislator and Legislative Yuan President Han Kuo-yu made a brief visit to Matsu to attend the 132nd anniversary celebration of 國民黨’s Lienchiang County chapter and campaign for fellow party member and county magistrate Wang Chung-ming. He said he had served in the military in Juguang and would be glad to help if Lienchiang County needed assistance in the future.
Most Asian stocks close lower as investors focus on 輝達 crisis
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Most Asian stocks closed lower as investors closely watched developments in an investigation into 輝達 (Nvidia) CEO Jensen Huang over an extramarital affair. Despite strong gains on Wall Street, stock markets in several Asian countries also fell.
Ministry of the Interior: Disaster-prevention specialists surpass 200,000 as Taiwan builds comprehensive resilience
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Ministry of the Interior announced that it began disaster-prevention specialist training in 2024, with the number of people nationwide receiving certification surpassing 200,000. Minister Liu Shih-fang presented certificates in recognition of the achievement, stressing the need to build the public’s capacity for self-directed disaster prevention and response and strengthen overall resilience.
Facts
Surpasses the 200,000 mark
Disaster-prevention specialists numbered 19萬9998 through 20萬零2 nationwide
A total of 3萬4439 active-duty and substitute-service personnel have received training
4,961 members of the Second Security Police Corps and security industry workers
7,758 village and neighborhood chiefs and clerks
1,078 personnel involved in apartment building management
Another 1,941 members of civic organizations took part in training
25th Wen-Hui Award ceremony celebrates cultural equity and diverse life stories
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 25th Wen-Hui Award, organized by 國立彰化生活美學館, saw Deputy Minister of 文化部 Hsu Yi-chun stress the importance of advancing cultural equity in her remarks. This year’s submissions covered literature, picture books and personal stories, with more than 300 entries received and 58 works ultimately winning awards.
美光’s Taoyuan union announced its withdrawal from labor-management negotiations on Nov. 17, alleging that the company demanded individual agreements in exchange for bonuses. 美光 said it did not ask employees to sign individual agreements or waive their rights, and that communication would continue.
Facts
Nov. 17
5 formal meetings
2 mediation sessions
3 follow-up negotiations chaired by the Taoyuan City Government
Public and private museum staff visit Czech Republic to learn about technical management
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台博文教基金會 partnered with 台博館 to send 15 staff members from public and private museums and art collections in Taiwan to the Czech Republic for training in technical management. A presentation of the results will be held on the 14th.
Facts
15 staff members from public and private museums and art collection institutions
台灣大 completes acquisition of 精誠資訊; Lin Chih-chen calls it a technology transformation milestone
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台灣大哥大 completed its public acquisition of 精誠資訊, bringing its total stake to 61.02% and increasing combined assets to NT$300 billion. EPS for the first 3 quarters reached NT$4.26, up 22% year over year, the highest in the telecom industry.
Facts
Total stake to reach 61.02%
Combined total assets will increase to NT$300 billion
Earned NT$4.26 per share in the first 3 quarters
Up 22% year over year
Third-quarter consolidated revenue of NT$50.37 billion
Consolidated revenue of NT$149.58 billion for the first 3 quarters
Miaoli Christmas City opens on the 20th, with a 94-day whimsical light show
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 Miaoli Christmas City event opens on Nov. 20 in collaboration with international IPs Rilakkuma and Sumikko Gurashi. The event will run for 94 days, through Feb. 21 next year.
China marks Sun Yat-sen’s birth anniversary; 梁文傑 says it seeks to establish the legitimacy of its rule
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Chinese Communist Party held a gathering to mark the 160th anniversary of Sun Yat-sen’s birth. 梁文傑, spokesperson for the 陸委會, said the move aims to establish the legitimacy of the Chinese Communist Party’s rule and affirm the status of Xi Jinping Thought. Taiwan’s position has not changed significantly, and the government has no special measures planned.
Part-time music teacher at Tainan elementary school suspected of falsifying academic credentials; city files complaint
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A part-time conducting teacher in the music program at an elementary school in Tainan is suspected of falsifying academic credentials. The teacher admitted to the allegations and resigned. The 教育局 has filed a criminal complaint with 南檢 and is conducting a comprehensive review of hiring qualifications.
First-instance verdict issued in 寶林茶室 case; Taipei City Government says it will continue helping victims seek compensation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A first-instance verdict was issued in the 寶林茶室 case. The Taipei City Government said it would continue helping victims seek compensation. So far, 22 people have reached settlements and received compensation. Mayor Chiang Wan-an reiterated that criminal penalties under the Food Safety Act are too lenient and called for amendments to increase them.
Facts
So far, 22 people have reached settlements and received compensation
All 6 administrative fines were referred for compulsory enforcement in accordance with the law
Filed a class-action lawsuit on behalf of 31 victims and their families
9 injured people are still involved in litigation
Including 8 injured people
And families of 14 people who died
Announcement by the Ministry of Health and Welfare dated May 19, ROC year 105
Marking Sun Yat-sen’s anniversary, 陸委會 urges 中共 to face the enduring reality of 中華民國
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
陸委會 said that if 中共 sincerely wished to commemorate Sun Yat-sen, it should face the enduring reality of 中華民國, respect Taiwan’s free and democratic way of life, and promote political reform and democratization in mainland China.
Facts
Gathering to mark the 160th anniversary of Mr. Sun Yat-sen’s birth
To be decided by Taiwan’s 23 million people themselves
Two Waves of Northeasterly Monsoons to Sweep In Next Week; Northern Taiwan Lows to Reach 18 Degrees
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Central Weather Administration forecast that two waves of northeasterly monsoons will sweep in next week, with lows in northern Taiwan reaching 18 degrees. Weather and temperatures around the island will vary with the fronts and monsoons.
Facts
Low temperatures to reach 18 degrees
Highs around 28 to 30 degrees Celsius
Highs to ease to 26 to 28 degrees
Highs around 24 to 25 degrees
Highs in northern Taiwan to fall to around 22 degrees