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AMD to Invest Over $10 Billion in Taiwan's Ecosystem to Accelerate AI Infrastructure

U.S. chip giant AMD announced on May 21st an investment of over $10 billion in Taiwan's industrial ecosystem to meet the growing demand for AI infrastructure. The investment aims to expand strategic partnerships and enhance advanced packaging manufacturing capacity for next-generation AI. AMD Chair and CEO Lisa Su stated that by combining AMD's high-performance computing with Taiwan's industrial ecosystem, they are creating integrated rack-scale AI infrastructure to help customers accelerate the deployment of next-gen AI systems. Specific collaborations include developing 2.5D advanced packaging technology with partners like ASE, SPIL, and PTI, and co-developing the Helios rack-scale platform, expected in the second half of 2026, with ODMs such as Wiwynn, Wistron, and Inventec.

SpaceX Aims for Historic IPO, Includes Taiwan Among Eligible Countries for Subscription

Elon Musk's SpaceX is planning a record-breaking Initial Public Offering (IPO) to raise $75 billion, potentially reaching a market capitalization of $1.77 trillion upon listing. Investors from multiple countries, including Taiwan, are eligible to subscribe. Notably, the company plans to allocate up to 30% of the shares to retail investors, and several U.S. brokerages have lowered their subscription thresholds. Despite not yet being profitable, market interest is fervent, with underwriters receiving subscription demand approximately twice the expected number of shares.

Yageo Hits Record-High May Revenue on Strong AI Application Demand

Passive components giant Yageo announced on June 8 that its consolidated revenue for May 2026 reached NT$15.058 billion, a record monthly high, up 7.3% MoM and 47.5% YoY. The growth was primarily driven by strong demand from AI-related applications. Cumulative revenue for the first five months of the year totaled NT$67.263 billion, a 27.4% increase from the same period last year.

Survey: 54% of Semiconductor Firms Expect Over 10% Revenue Growth Amid AI Demand Expansion

KPMG today released its "2026 Global Semiconductor Industry Survey," which found that 54% of surveyed semiconductor executives expect their company's revenue to grow by over 11%, driven by expanding demand for AI and data centers. The industry's confidence index reached its third-highest level in 21 years, though risks such as uncertain customer demand and energy supply persist. Separately, a Deloitte report indicates that AI is shifting the competitive focus in the banking industry toward data governance.

AMD Taps Taiwanese OSATs for Fan-Out Advanced Packaging to Seize AI Opportunities

AI chip giant AMD announced on the 21st an investment of over US$10 billion in Taiwan's industrial ecosystem to accelerate the build-out of AI infrastructure. AMD will partner with major OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) firms like ASE Technology, SPIL, and Powertech (PTI), as well as IC substrate makers Unimicron, Nan Ya PCB, and Kinsus, to expand 2.5D advanced packaging capacity. This move is driven by the tight supply of TSMC's CoWoS advanced packaging, which is primarily allocated to NVIDIA. AMD is collaborating on next-generation technologies like Elevated Fan-out Bridge (EFB), with PTI's Fan-Out Panel-Level Packaging (FOPLP) slated for mass production in 2027.

Why Don't Novels Sell? Editor Who Launched Kyogoku Natsuhiko Says the Key Is Written Language [Book Excerpt]

The shrinking publishing market is a global challenge. Atsushi Karaki, a legendary editor from Japan's Kodansha who launched authors like Kyogoku Natsuhiko and Mori Hiroshi, suggests the root cause of poor novel sales might lie in 'written language.' An excerpt from his new book, 'The Talent Appraiser,' argues that the 'colloquial style' established in the Meiji era is now disconnected from the linguistic sense of young people who write daily on social media. He posits that innovating this style, as authors like Nisio Isin and Ryo Asai have done, is the key to attracting new readers and securing the future of the novel.

Taiwan Pavilion at US Drone Expo, Largest to Date, Secures NT$1.3 Billion in Potential Business

Taiwan's drone industry continues to expand its market presence through international exhibitions. The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) announced today that at the XPONENTIAL drone exhibition in Detroit, USA, the Taiwan Pavilion reached its largest scale ever, bringing together 35 companies and 130 representatives from industry, government, academia, and research, with an estimated NT$1.3 billion in potential business opportunities. Notably, Thunder Tiger Technology secured a procurement deal with the U.S. defense system, receiving a first-phase order for 1,520 drones valued at approximately US$7.6 million, reinforcing its position in the non-red supply chain.

SpaceX Prices IPO at $135 Per Share, Marking Largest IPO in U.S. History

Elon Musk's space exploration company, SpaceX, has priced its Initial Public Offering (IPO) at $135 per share, raising a total of $75 billion. This marks the largest IPO in U.S. history, bringing the company's valuation to $1.77 trillion and making it the seventh-largest U.S. public company. The stock will begin trading on the Nasdaq exchange.

Largan's Lin: Developing CPO to Avoid 'Elimination by AI,' FA Pilot Production by September

Largan Precision Chairman Lin En-ping announced on June 9th that the company is developing CPO (Co-Packaged Optics) technology to counter the risk of the lens industry being rendered obsolete by AI. He stated that a pilot automated production line for FA (Fiber Array) is planned for before September 2026, with a large potential buyer already set to visit. Lin noted that Largan's precision has reached below 0.3 microns, surpassing industry standards, and gives them an advantage in stacking more than 4 layers, adding they can now "bravely ramp up mass production" of FA products.

Strong AI Demand Drives Taiwan's Q1 Manufacturing Investment Past NT$700 Billion, a 14.5% Yearly Increase

Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs announced on the 10th that driven by strong demand for AI and high-performance computing, manufacturing fixed asset investment reached NT$700.1 billion in Q1 2026, a 14.5% increase year-over-year. The electronic components industry, led by semiconductors, spearheaded this growth, accounting for 77.9% of the total investment.

US Research: China-Linked Hackers Are the Biggest Cybersecurity Threat to Tech Amid AI Boom

US cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike released a report on June 9 stating that amid the investment boom in AI, the biggest espionage threat faced by the tech industry over the past year came from hackers linked to China. The report analyzes that such attacks align with the Chinese government's strategic priorities to acquire tech development and intellectual property. A CrowdStrike executive stated that the US and China are in an AI arms race, with China aiming for dominance by 2030, making AI-related companies high-value targets. The Chinese embassy in the US denied the accusations. The report also mentioned that hackers from North Korea, Russia, and Iran also pose threats to the tech industry.

GIGABYTE Chairman: AI Order Visibility is Clear, Stock is Undervalued

Yeh Pei-cheng, Chairman of server and motherboard maker GIGABYTE, stated on June 9th that the company's AI server order visibility for this year is very clear, and planning for next year is already underway. He expects overall revenue growth this year to potentially surpass last year's. He also admitted that GIGABYTE's P/E ratio is low and its stock price is "definitely undervalued," but expressed confidence in the company's profitability and growth strategy.

Bora Pharmaceuticals Hits Record High May Revenue, Shaking Off Q1 Headwinds with CDMO Recovery and Weider Acquisition

Bora Pharmaceuticals announced that its May 2026 revenue reached NT$2.114 billion, a record high and a 40.19% year-over-year increase. The primary growth drivers were the inclusion of US health brand Weider, acquired by its subsidiary Sunway Biotech, and a recovery in its CDMO (Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization) business utilization. The company stated that its operations are gradually moving past the headwinds faced in the first quarter.

Taiwan 50 Index Component Adjustment Takes Effect After Market Close, Affecting ETF Fund Flows

The highly anticipated adjustment of the Taiwan 50 Index components took effect after the market closed on the 18th. Four new stocks—BizLink-KY, GUC, Nan Ya PCB, and Zhen Ding-KY—were added, while Radiance, China Steel, Formosa Plastics, and Hotai Motor were removed. This change impacts approximately NT$2.62 trillion in ETF funds and is drawing significant market attention.

Taiwan-Europe 6G Industry Cooperation Upgraded as Ministry of Economic Affairs Facilitates Two MOUs in Europe

Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs' Department of Industrial Technology led a delegation to the 2026 EuCNC & 6G Summit in Spain. The visit resulted in an MOU between Europe's 6G-IA and the Taiwan 6G Industry Forum, and launched a collaboration on ISAC technology between Taiwan's ITRI and TNO of the Netherlands, deepening the Taiwan-Europe 6G R&D linkage.

SinoPac Bank Upgrades Corporate Finance Platform to Address Sustainability Pain Points

To address the challenges SMEs and startups face in transitioning to sustainability, SinoPac Bank today announced an upgrade to its "DA BOSS Ecosystem Platform," deepening its corporate financial services. By collaborating with carbon credit experts and greenhouse gas inventory verifiers, the bank aims to help businesses get ahead in their sustainability planning. Chairman Tsao Wei-shih expressed hope that the platform will connect businesses with supply chains and partners, driving double-digit growth in the bank's SME lending.

NVIDIA Boosts Taiwan Stocks, Taiex Recaptures 41300 Mark with 1347-Point Surge, 5th Largest in History

Boosted by NVIDIA's excellent earnings report, Taiwan stocks staged a revenge rebound on the 21st. Led by large-cap stocks and passive component shares, the Taiex once surged over 1,500 points intraday, closing at 41368.21, up 1347.39 points—the fifth-largest single-day point gain in history. Turnover reached NT$1.12 trillion. Li Fang-kuo, Chairman of Uni-President Investment Trust, analyzed that the rally is supported by strong economic fundamentals and expects the bull run to continue, driven by catalysts like COMPUTEX.

Auras Raises Revenue Growth Target to up to 70%, Sees AI Boom Lasting Until 2028

T.Y. Lin, chairman of thermal solutions giant Auras Technology, announced at a shareholders' meeting on the 21st that due to strong demand from the AI and ASIC markets, the company is raising its 2026 revenue growth target from 50% to 60-70% year-on-year. He expects the AI boom to continue until 2028. Lin explained that while Auras will not be supplying NVIDIA's Vera Rubin platform, it is providing cooling for other projects like NVLink 8. He anticipates ASIC-related revenue will account for 40% of the total in the second half of the year. To meet this demand from clients like Google, AWS, Meta, and AMD, Auras is actively expanding production capacity for water cooling plates and CPU vapor chambers at its plants in Thailand and Guangzhou.

TSMC Chairman Reveals President's Grand Plan: 'No Need to Talk About Land, Water, or Power Shortages Anymore'

TSMC Chairman Mark Liu, speaking at a groundbreaking ceremony for a semiconductor supply chain park in Pingtung on June 12, revealed that President Lai Ching-te mentioned a grand plan to connect all reservoirs. Liu stated that with this, 'there will be no need to talk about shortages of land, water, or power in the future,' but noted that a talent shortage remains.

Taiwan's Top 3 Telcos Report May Earnings; Taiwan Mobile Remains EPS King

Taiwan's three major telecommunications companies announced their May profits. Taiwan Mobile reported a May EPS of NT$0.5 and a cumulative Jan-May EPS of NT$2.34, outperforming Chunghwa Telecom (NT$0.44, NT$2.22) and Far EasTone (NT$0.37, NT$1.76) to maintain its position as the EPS leader for both the single month and the cumulative period. Growth for all companies was driven by strong performance in AI-related businesses and ICT solutions.

Taiwan's May Machinery Exports Hit Record High, Boosted by Electronic Equipment

The Taiwan Association of Machinery Industry announced on June 10 that May machinery exports reached a record US$3.501 billion, marking 16 consecutive months of positive growth. This surge was significantly driven by electronic equipment exports, which also hit a single-month record of US$719 million amid strong demand for AI and semiconductors. While machine tool exports are showing signs of recovery, the industry still faces headwinds from the strong New Taiwan Dollar impacting export competitiveness.

Trade War Intensifies, Italian Trade Agency Head Warns: "China is Like a Train Coming at Us"

Amid intensifying trade competition between the EU and China, Matteo Zoppas, president of the Italian Trade & Investment Agency (ITA), warned on June 9th that Italian businesses must urgently adapt to the trade war. "China is like a train coming right at us," he stated. Zoppas pointed out that Chinese products are not only 30% cheaper but now also possess innovative capabilities, increasingly replacing Italian goods. He urged that the next 5 to 10 years are critical, calling for a concerted effort by government and industry to raise annual exports to €700 billion.

London Tech Week: AMD CEO Lisa Su Announces Over NT$84 Billion Investment in the UK

AMD Chair and CEO Lisa Su announced at London Tech Week a plan to invest £2 billion (over NT$84 billion) in the UK over the next five years. The investment will be used for building high-performance computing infrastructure, research and development, and direct investment in British startups. AMD will collaborate with the University of Cambridge and Imperial College London to support the UK's 'sovereign AI' development. In response, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also announced a £400 million plan to purchase AI chips, signaling a commitment to strengthening the nation's AI infrastructure.

SpaceX IPO in Focus as Global Satellite Industry Value Estimated to Reach $447 Billion by 2027

With rapid growth in demand for global satellite broadband, direct-to-cell services, and AI computing, SpaceX's future IPO plans are drawing significant market attention. Research firm TrendForce estimates the global satellite industry's value will reach $447 billion by 2027, with an annual growth rate of 14%. In addition to expanding its satellite services, SpaceX is actively investing in new areas like space-based AI computing and solar power, a trend that is creating new opportunities for Taiwan's supply chain.

Formosa Plastics, Nan Ya Expect Q2 Revenue to Outperform Q1, with Further Growth in Q3

Formosa Plastics Group's "four treasures" announced their May revenues, with Formosa Plastics, Formosa Chemicals, and Formosa Petrochemical all reporting month-over-month declines. However, both Formosa Plastics and Nan Ya forecast that overall Q2 revenue will surpass Q1, with an even better outlook for Q3. Formosa Plastics anticipates increased production and sales in June, benefiting from a peak season in Q3 and reduced market supply. Nan Ya is buoyed by growth in electronic materials and a surge in both price and volume for petrochemical products.

Taiwan Semiconductor Film 'The Mountain Builders' Screened in Germany; ESMC President Says Taiwan's Can-Do Attitude is Worth Learning From

The documentary film 'The Mountain Builders,' which chronicles the development of Taiwan's semiconductor industry, was screened in Dresden, Germany's semiconductor hub. After watching, Christian Koitzsch, President of ESMC, stated that the high efficiency, execution, and spirit of cooperation demonstrated by Taiwan are worth learning from for Germany's semiconductor industry. The event highlighted the deepening relationship between Taiwan and Germany in tech cooperation and talent cultivation.

Taiwan Insurance Institute: Market Recovery Boosts Optimism for Auto Insurance to Continue Driving Premium Growth

According to the latest non-life insurance market report from the Taiwan Insurance Institute (TII), the primary growth drivers for the industry's overall premiums last year were engineering insurance (up 37.6% YoY) and auto insurance (up 3.1% YoY). The TII anticipates that with recovering market demand, rising new car prices, and increased public risk awareness, auto insurance will continue to lead overall premium growth this year.

Reuters: Nvidia to Launch Vera Chip for China Market, Possibly as Soon as August

According to Reuters, Nvidia has informed its Chinese customers that its new Vera CPU for AI data centers could be launched as early as August, with orders now being accepted. This move aims to reverse a sharp decline in its China business caused by U.S. export controls. The Vera is Nvidia's first standalone CPU for agent AI, reportedly offering 1.8 times the performance of competitors, and is being deployed in collaboration with cloud giants like Alibaba and ByteDance.

Uni-President's May Revenue Hits Record High; President Chain Store and FamilyMart Also Set New Records

Taiwanese food giant Uni-President Enterprises announced on the 10th that its May revenue grew by 2.7% year-on-year to NT$59.18 billion, a record high for the same period. The growth was attributed to its core food business and key investments, Uni-President China and President Chain Store Corp. (7-Eleven). Both President Chain Store and FamilyMart also set new all-time monthly revenue records in May.

ASE's May Revenue Hits Record High, Boosted by AI Advanced Packaging

Major semiconductor packaging and testing firm ASE Technology Holding announced on June 9th that its May consolidated revenue reached NT$63.033 billion, a 28.6% year-over-year increase and a record high for the period. Strong demand for its advanced packaging (LEAP) business, driven by AI, led the company to raise its forecast for the segment to US$3.5 billion this year. Additionally, ASE is developing an automated Panel-Level Packaging line to meet future demand from AI accelerators and HPC, with mass production planned for the first half of 2027.

Phihong Focuses on AI Peripherals and LEO Satellites, Aims for 40% Revenue Share from Networking Products

At an investor conference on June 9, Taiwanese power supply maker Phihong announced a strategic shift. General Manager Lin Kuan-hung stated that with non-AI product customers facing material shortages, the company will focus on networking products for AI data center peripherals. Phihong projects this segment's revenue share to surge from 27% last year to 40% this year, driving gross margin growth, despite posting a net loss in the first quarter.

Largan Chairman Lin En-ping on H2 Lens Outlook: Q4 Will See a Higher Proportion

Following a shareholders' meeting, Largan Precision Chairman Lin En-ping stated that due to changes in client scheduling, some new products will be deferred to Q1 of next year, leading to a higher shipment proportion and heavier workload in Q4 of this year. He mentioned that rising memory prices are affecting demand for lens upgrades, while periscope lens enhancements are expected next year or the year after. Regarding a €22 million lawsuit from German firm MVTec, he maintained a firm stance, suggesting they should file the case in Taiwan.

Low-Orbit Satellite Stocks Surge Ahead of SpaceX IPO

Fueled by the impending IPO of low-earth orbit satellite giant SpaceX, related Taiwanese stocks surged during trading on June 9th. High-frequency microwave component supplier Wha Yu Industrial jumped 7.56%, HDI board maker Compeq rose over 7%, and Starlink supplier Wistron NeWeb Corp. gained more than 6%. Research firm TrendForce notes SpaceX's expansion into new areas like AI space computing is ushering the industry into a new phase.

Taiwan's State-Owned Banks See Strong Overseas Profit Growth in First Four Months; Four Banks Exceed 20% Contribution Ratio

For the first four months of 2026, Taiwan's eight state-owned banks demonstrated strong profit momentum in their overseas (excluding China) and Offshore Banking Unit (OBU) operations. Chang Hwa Bank led with its overseas profit contribution ratio reaching approximately 27%, while First Bank, Mega Bank, and Bank of Taiwan all surpassed 20%. Hua Nan Bank showed the most impressive performance with year-over-year profit growth exceeding 100%. The banks plan to continue aligning with the government's New Southbound Policy and the global supply chain expansions of Taiwanese businesses, prioritizing stable regions like ASEAN and North America for expansion, with Chang Hwa Bank evaluating a Phoenix location and Land Bank focusing on establishing a branch in Tokyo.

Summer Tour Prices for Japan Unchanged; Thailand's Visa-Free Day Adjustment Has No Impact

The Travel Quality Assurance Association (TQAA) announced on the 21st that despite rising costs from fuel surcharges and tourism taxes, tour package prices to Japan, a favorite destination for Taiwanese tourists, will not increase this summer (July-September) compared to the same period last year, as operators are absorbing the extra costs. An adjustment to Thailand's visa-free days will also not affect group travelers. However, prices for long-haul destinations like the United States and Europe are expected to rise by 5% to 10% due to factors like fuel costs and the World Cup. The TQAA estimates that Taiwan's total outbound tourist numbers could exceed 20 million this year.

Google Invests Heavily in AI Infrastructure, Pichai Cites Real Market Demand

At the conclusion of the Google I/O developer conference, CEO Sundar Pichai stated in a press conference that heavy investment in AI is driven by real market demand. He revealed that the computing power built in the last two years is equivalent to the company's first 20 years combined. Parent company Alphabet plans to invest up to $190 billion in AI infrastructure by 2026, including proprietary TPU chips and new energy sources like nuclear fusion.

Nanya Tech: AI Shifts Memory Industry to Structural Growth, Advanced Technology Becomes Key to Profitability

At a shareholders' meeting on May 21, Nanya Technology Chairman Jou, Ming-Jen stated that driven by AI demand, the memory industry is transitioning from a cyclical model to structural growth, with advanced technology being the key to future profitability. The company plans a capital expenditure of up to NT$52 billion this year to accelerate the expansion of its 5A fab and the development of 10nm-class process technology. It expects to complete validation of its 1C process pilot product in the second half of the year to capture opportunities in AI servers, AI PCs, and smartphones.

U.S. Stocks Surge, Post Best Day in 2 Months, After Trump Calls Off Iran Strike Plan

Following President Trump's announcement on the 11th that he was canceling a planned airstrike on Iran, expectations for a U.S.-Iran deal grew, fueling a sharp rally in the U.S. stock market. The market had its best single-day performance in two months, with the Dow Jones rising 1.86% and the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index soaring 7.91%. Meanwhile, international oil prices fell.

ASEAN Economic News (June 9): Vietnam's Tech Strategy, Singapore as a Gold Hub, and More

The ASEAN economic brief for June 9, 2026, highlights several key developments. Vietnam is promoting strategic technologies like AI. Laos and Vietnam are deepening their strategic partnership, leading to significant growth in trade. Singapore may become a regional gold trading hub as neighboring countries tighten regulations on precious metals. The central bank of the Philippines is expected to continue raising interest rates despite slowing inflation. Additionally, reports cover Myanmar's agricultural reforms, Malaysia's electronics export forecast, increased trade between Thailand and Vietnam, Cambodia's industrial investment drive, and Indonesia's tariff negotiations with the US.

Wistron's May Revenue Hits Second-Highest Monthly Record; AI Server Growth to Continue in Q3

ODM giant Wistron announced on June 8th that its consolidated revenue for May reached approximately NT$290.183 billion, a 39.2% year-over-year increase, marking a record high for the same period and the second-highest monthly figure ever. The company expects AI server growth to persist in the third quarter, with general-purpose servers projected to grow by 20% both quarterly and annually.

The Rise of Brazilian Specialty Coffee: A New National Culture Alongside Football

Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Brazil, the world's largest coffee producer, is undergoing a cultural shift. Historically exporting its best beans while consuming lower quality ones, the country is now seeing a domestic boom in specialty coffee. High-quality beans from regions like Minas Gerais symbolize Brazil's newfound appreciation for its own finest resources, reflecting a new national identity.

UBS: World to See US$83 Trillion Wealth Transfer, Reshaping Wealth Management Landscape

UBS announced on June 9th that a massive US$83 trillion wealth transfer will occur globally over the next 20 to 30 years, driven by factors like aging populations and rising asset values, which will reshape the wealth management landscape. The core of wealth inheritance is shifting from mere asset transfer to the continuation of responsibility, decision-making power, and family mission. In Taiwan, as first-generation entrepreneurs enter retirement, establishing clear governance structures and fostering intergenerational communication early on is key to ensuring the long-term stable development of family businesses.

Hua Nan FHC Foresees AI Driving Industrial Upgrades; Cooperative Bank FHC to Focus on Resilience

At their shareholder meetings on June 18, state-owned financial institutions Hua Nan Financial Holdings and Cooperative Treasury Gold presented their outlooks on the future economic situation. Hua Nan FHC is optimistic that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will continue to drive industrial upgrading and has launched a new "5-Year Strategic Blueprint," approving a total dividend of NT$1.45 per share. Meanwhile, Cooperative Treasury Gold emphasized strengthening operational resilience and stable management amidst a changing global landscape, completing its board election and approving a dividend of NT$1.05 per share.

Taiwanese Banks Respond to Corporate US Investment Guarantee Mechanism, Offering Cross-Border Financial Support

To assist Taiwanese companies investing in the US, the National Development Council held a signing ceremony for the 'Corporate US Investment Financing Guarantee Mechanism'. The first-phase fund reached US$1.375 billion, with 15 banks contributing US$575 million and the National Development Fund injecting US$800 million. CTBC Bank invested the maximum tier of US$75 million, while Taipei Fubon Bank and Cathay United Bank each invested US$25 million. The mechanism leverages their cross-border financial expertise to support companies' supply chain restructuring and overseas expansion.

Giant and Merida See May Revenue Grow Year-Over-Year Amid Growth in European and Chinese Bicycle Markets

Taiwanese bicycle manufacturers Giant Group and Merida announced year-over-year growth in their consolidated revenues for May. Giant's revenue increased by 6%, driven by strong sales in China and Europe, with the former growing by over 30%. Merida's revenue surged by 18%, boosted by a significant 52% increase in sales in the Chinese market. However, the cumulative revenues for both companies from January to May still show a decline compared to the same period last year.

China's May CPI Rises 1.2% YoY; Analysts Note Persistently Low Price Levels

According to the latest data from China's National Bureau of Statistics, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for May rose by 1.2% year-on-year. Chinese economists state that the current situation of low domestic price levels has not fundamentally changed, indicating significant room for future pro-consumption policies.

Amid Intense Competition in China's Auto Industry, BYD Still Aims to Become World's No. 1 in Scale Within 5 Years

As China's auto industry faces intense competition, BYD founder Wang Chuanfu stated at a June 9 shareholder meeting that the company could become the world's sales leader within five years. Despite pressure from the rollback of subsidy policies early in the year, Wang believes the "worst is over," highlighting the second-generation Blade Battery and flash charging technology as key to their turnaround. Although facing a battery production bottleneck, BYD aims for the top spot by 2030 through a dual-drive strategy focusing on domestic and international markets.

YOKE's May Revenue Hits Record High on Shipments of Regenerable Filters

Micro-contamination solution provider YOKE saw its May revenue climb to a record NT$230 million, driven by shipments of its regenerable filters. The company anticipates further operational growth propelled by expanding shipments of these filters and rising demand from advanced packaging plants. Cumulative revenue for the first five months reached NT$910 million, a 43.8% year-over-year increase.

Toyota to Set Up Dedicated Production Line in Taiwan for Japanese Market, Reversing Flow with 'Made in Taiwan' Cars

Toyota Motor Corp. will establish a dedicated production line in Taiwan to manufacture key models for the Japanese market, with exports set to begin this October. This "reverse importation" strategy highlights Japanese automakers' accelerating efforts to restructure overseas supply chains amid domestic labor shortages and production struggles. The plan involves producing the popular Noah and Voxy minivans, with an expected annual output of around 100,000 units.

Taiwan Stocks Close at Record High of 46,465; Weekly Gain of 2,296 Points

On June 18, the Taiwan stock market, driven by small and medium-sized technology stocks, closed up 587.81 points at a record high of 46,465.20. During the session, the index surged over 680 points to an intraday record of 46,565.70. However, the gains were tempered by a wait-and-see attitude and pre-holiday profit-taking ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival. Turnover reached NT$1.54 trillion, and the market posted a weekly gain of 2,296.16 points.

Far Eastern Group Temporarily Exits Physical Department Stores in China; Chairman Huang Says Move is to 'Stop Losses and Preserve Strength'

Following the closure of Far Eastern City in Chongqing, Far Eastern Group has temporarily reduced its physical department store presence in mainland China to zero. Far Eastern SOGO Chairman Huang Sunny stated that amid unclear prospects for China's economic and domestic demand recovery, the group is adopting a wait-and-see approach but will not abandon the mainland market. "We will preserve our strength and not bleed unnecessarily," she said, adding that the current focus is on managing the Taipei Dome shopping complex to build a stronger foundation for a future return to the mainland market.

VIA Launches Edge AI Brand 'VISVIA' to Promote Practical Applications

IC design firm VIA announced on the 18th the launch of its new edge AI solution brand, "VISVIA." Combining computer vision and generative AI technologies, the brand aims to extend artificial intelligence from the cloud to real-world application fields. VIA Chairman Chen Wen-chi stated that the value of AI lies in its practical implementation. VISVIA will use a standardized platform to help enterprises accelerate their smart transformation in areas such as industrial inspection, smart retail, smart access control, and smart fleet management.

Tigerair Taiwan to Launch Paid In-Flight Entertainment System on the 25th

Tigerair Taiwan announced today that it will launch a paid wireless in-flight entertainment system on the 25th. Passengers can connect with their personal devices such as mobile phones to watch movies and TV series. The content will be updated quarterly, and a free trial will be available to all passengers until October 24.

Foreign Investors Rebound Taiwan Stocks, NTD Appreciates Slightly by 1.3 Cents But Marks Second Consecutive Weekly Decline

Following US President Trump's cancellation of a planned airstrike on Iran, Taiwan stocks rallied over 1,000 points. Foreign investors bought a net NT$28.69 billion, ending a six-day selling streak. However, the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD) remained relatively calm, closing slightly higher at 31.618. Despite the minor daily gain, the NTD recorded a second consecutive weekly decline due to massive hot money outflows earlier in the week. Markets are now looking ahead to the US Fed meeting next week.

Oriental Wind Power Hits Record High Revenue in May, Driven by Submarine Cables and Natural Gas

Oriental Wind Power announced that its consolidated revenue for May reached a record high of NT$1.479 billion, primarily due to marine engineering entering its peak construction season and revenue recognition from AI communication submarine cable projects. The company plans to focus on offshore energy and AI submarine cables as its dual pillars, positioning the natural gas business as a key growth driver for the next five years. It plans to partner with DeepOcean to expand into the European market by the end of this year while also exploring offshore energy opportunities in Southeast Asia.

From Paddy Fields to Fragrant Spirits: New Taipei's Jinshan Agricultural Products Forge an International Path with Added Value

New Taipei City's Agriculture Bureau is promoting local revitalization, aiding Jinshan's Tsai Tian Friendly Farming Co. in developing three distilled spirits from local Tsai Tian rice, which have won multiple international awards. This success not only increases the added value of agricultural products but also showcases a win-win model for the economy and environment, as jejich eco-friendly farming practices contribute to ecological conservation (once attracting a Siberian crane). CEO Yang Ju-men hopes this will open new markets for the rice and boost farmer confidence.

China's May CPI Rises 1.2% YoY, PPI Hits Near 4-Year High at 3.9% YoY

According to data from China's National Bureau of Statistics on June 10, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for May rose by 1.2% year-on-year, unchanged from the previous month. However, the Producer Price Index (PPI) increased by 3.9% year-on-year, marking a three-month consecutive rise and hitting a new high since July 2022. Official analysis attributes the monthly CPI decline primarily to falling energy and service prices.

Cathay SITE Warns Investors of Excessive Premium on 00916 ETF, Urges Risk Assessment

With the Cathay Global Brand 50 (00916) ETF set to go ex-dividend on June 16 with an estimated dividend of NT$3.8 per share and an annualized yield over 13%, a surge in demand has pushed its price up. Cathay SITE issued a warning on June 9th, pointing out that the ETF's closing price of NT$29 was at a 4.69% premium to its estimated NAV of NT$27.7, urging investors to carefully evaluate the risks.

China's May Exports Rise 19.4% YoY, Exports to US Jump 35.6%

China's General Administration of Customs announced that May's dollar-denominated exports grew 19.4% year-on-year, while imports increased by 27.4%, both exceeding market expectations. Reuters analysis suggests this was driven by advance purchases from overseas buyers anticipating rising energy costs due to the Middle East war, as well as stable demand for semiconductors and AI hardware. Exports to the US notably surged by 35.6% to $39.03 billion. However, economists warn that demand may slow once overseas inventories peak.

Taiwan Stocks Suffer 'Black Monday'; Realtors Say Credit Controls to Prevent Housing Sell-off Wave

The Taiwanese stock market plummeted on the 8th, sparking concerns about its impact on the housing market. Multiple real estate agencies noted that based on past stock market crashes, the effect is likely to be short-term and unlikely to trigger a mass sell-off unless accompanied by economic recession and rising unemployment. With the central bank's credit controls and lending restrictions still in place, short-term buying sentiment in the property market is expected to remain conservative.

CATCHPLAY+ Launches Taiwan-Korea Co-Production Plan, Expands into In-Vehicle Entertainment

Taiwanese streaming platform CATCHPLAY+ celebrated its 10th anniversary by unveiling its future roadmap. The plan includes collaborations with four major Korean content providers for co-producing Taiwan-Korea vertical short dramas. The platform will also expand into in-vehicle entertainment in Taiwan, Indonesia, and Singapore, and broaden partnerships with Taiwanese cable operators.

Allied-SCT to List on OTC Market in Late June, Targeting Natural Colorant Market Opportunity

Allied-SCT, a major manufacturer of carotenoid products, plans to list on the OTC market in late June with a tentative underwriting price of NT$20 per share. COO Yang Bin stated that with California set to ban certain artificial colors in public school cafeterias starting at the end of 2027, Allied-SCT's natural carotenoid products are poised to capture a US$300 million market opportunity.

PCSC Invests in LOPIA; Px Mart's Lin Says He Would Have Considered Investing

Px Mart Chairman Lin Min-hsiung admitted surprise at President Chain Store Corp.'s (PCSC) investment in Japanese supermarket LOPIA but stated it wouldn't impact Px Mart's operations. He revealed on the 21st that he would have considered investing if approached, citing Px Mart's lack of a high-end supermarket segment. Px Mart will continue its own store expansion, aiming to add 40-50 stores this year to reach nearly 1,300 nationwide, with a focus on large-format complex stores.

Taiwan's Crude Oil Imports from US Hit Record High in Jan-Apr: MOF

According to Taiwan's Ministry of Finance, amid Middle East conflicts affecting global crude supply, Taiwan's crude oil imports from the United States reached a record high of US$2.5 billion for the first four months of the year. The share of US imports increased by 7.3% year-on-year, and in April alone, it soared to 43.2%, a 1.1-fold increase. This reflects an adjustment in supply sources in response to geopolitical risks. Meanwhile, natural gas imports also rose, with supply from the US surging 3.7 times. Coal imports continued to decline, indicating Taiwan's energy structure is shifting towards 'increasing gas, reducing coal.'

Facing Strict Regulations, Airbnb Adds Hotel Booking and Grocery Delivery Services

Amid increasingly strict short-term rental regulations by governments worldwide, accommodation booking company Airbnb announced on the 21st that it is rolling out services like boutique hotel booking, car rentals, and grocery delivery within its app. The move aims to create a one-stop travel shopping platform and capture more market share from competitors like Booking.com and Expedia.

AI Demand Keeps Taiwan's April Electricity Indicator in Red Light Zone

The Taiwan Research Institute (TRI) announced on May 21st that Taiwan's electricity prosperity indicator remained a 'red light' for April, signaling a booming economy. This is primarily driven by strong structural demand for AI, which has boosted the semiconductor sector and supported the overall economy, leading to an estimated 10.3% economic growth for the month. In contrast, traditional industries are facing pressure from rising costs due to the Middle East conflict.

Weighted Stocks Weaken, Taiex Plunges Over 700 Points in Mid-day Trading, Testing 44,000 Mark

Pressured by a decline in U.S. tech stocks, the Taiwan stock market faced a major setback on the 10th, dropping by more than 700 points at one point during mid-day trading and falling below the 44,000 mark. Major weighted stocks like TSMC and MediaTek broadly declined. However, capital rotation was evident as the passive components sector, led by a limit-up surge from Yageo, performed strongly. Additionally, optical giant Largan Precision hit its limit-up for the second consecutive day due to its progress in Co-Packaged Optics (CPO). Analysts view this as a healthy correction after record highs, with funds not withdrawing but reallocating, maintaining an overall bullish outlook.

Taiwan Stocks Surge 1201 Points, Yet Foreign Investors Sell Off NT$91.7 Billion, the 8th Largest in History

On June 9, Taiwan's stock market surged by 1201.66 points to close at 44704.44, with a turnover of NT$1.15 trillion. Despite the rally, the three major institutional investors were net sellers of NT$77.857 billion. Notably, foreign and Mainland Chinese investors sold a net of NT$91.733 billion, the 8th largest sell-off in history and the fourth consecutive day of selling. An analyst noted that while confidence has returned, the market's direction depends on US monetary policy and inflation data.

Hon Hai's Singapore Subsidiary Invests Another US$129 Million in Mexico

Hon Hai (Foxconn) announced on the 21st that its Singapore subsidiary, Cloud Network Technology Singapore, will make long-term investments totaling US$129 million in two of its Mexican subsidiaries: FII AMC MEXICO and Ingrasys Technology Mexico. The investment, funded by the company's own capital, is part of Hon Hai's ongoing expansion in Mexico since 2024. The company also reported its Q1 earnings with an EPS of NT$3.56.

MOEA Organizes Chicago Food Business Delegation, Leads Companies to NRA Show

Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), in collaboration with the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) and the National Association of Small & Medium Enterprises, organized a food business delegation to Chicago. Led by Cheng Jui-pin, chairman of Q Burger, the delegation of Taiwanese food-related companies attended the National Restaurant Association (NRA) Show, the largest foodservice trade show in the U.S. The goal was to negotiate partnerships with American food brands, distributors, and supply chain operators to help Taiwanese SMEs expand business opportunities in the U.S. market.

Analog Integrations Sees Fiber Optic Order Visibility to Q1 Next Year; Amazing Microelectronic Expects Growth Recovery

At their earnings conference on May 21, semiconductor chip makers Analog Integrations and Amazing Microelectronic both projected revenue growth for this year compared to last. Analog Integrations stated that due to strong demand from Cloud Service Providers (CSPs), its order visibility for fiber optic products extends to the first quarter of next year, with output expected to increase 3 to 5 times. ESD protection solution provider Amazing Microelectronic noted that with effective customer inventory destocking, its revenue for the first four months of the year grew 13.23% annually, and it expects a return to growth for the full year.

Taiwan Mobile Partners with Software Association to Drive Cybersecurity Governance

On the 21st, Taiwan Mobile collaborated with the software industry association to host a seminar on "Intelligence-Driven Cybersecurity Governance" in response to AI-accelerated attacks and evolving hacker tactics. Taiwan Mobile's Chief Business Officer, Chu Hsiao-Hsing, stated that the cybersecurity trend has shifted from passive detection to proactive warning. The company will assist government and enterprises in transforming potential threats into predictable governance by accurately interpreting vast intelligence, building a new generation of active defense, and enhancing digital resilience.

Topco Enters CCL Supply Chain with High-End Quartz Cloth, Forging Second Growth Curve

Topco announced at an investor conference on May 21st that its high-end quartz cloth with low dielectric loss has successfully entered the supply chain of major Taiwanese Copper Clad Laminate (CCL) manufacturers, with current shipments at full capacity. To meet strong demand driven by AI and HPC chips, a key supplier, Shin-Etsu Chemical, is expanding its monthly capacity from 75,000 meters to a target of 240,000 meters, which is expected to become Topco's second growth engine. The company's Q1 net profit grew over 40% year-on-year to NT$13.2 billion, a record high.

Taiwan's Financial Sector Strengthens Anti-Fraud Efforts Through Cross-Domain Collaboration, Enhancing AI Model Capabilities

To combat increasingly sophisticated fraud, Taiwan's financial sector is enhancing its defenses through cross-domain collaborations. On the 21st, Cathay United Bank announced a deeper partnership with the Criminal Investigation Bureau to implement an AI model for analyzing victim behavior, which is expected to intercept NT$90 million in fraudulent funds annually. This collaboration uses police data to improve model accuracy. Meanwhile, Fubon Insurance has partnered with Taiwan Mobile and Gogolook to launch a digital anti-fraud picture book to raise public awareness.

Nanya Tech: Cooperating with Multiple AI Firms, DRAM Shortage Expected to Last Until End of Next Year

Lee Pei-Ing, President of memory manufacturer Nanya Technology, stated at a shareholders' meeting on May 21st that the company is collaborating with multiple international AI firms. Four clients—Solidigm, Sandisk Technologies, Kioxia, and Cisco—recently participated in a private placement, all targeting cloud AI applications. He predicts the DRAM supply-demand gap will continue until the end of next year and revealed that a new fab will begin equipment installation next year, with capacity expected to increase by 80-100% in 2-3 years.

Tech Stocks Plunge, Taiwan Stocks Fall Sharply by 1478 Points in Historic Drop

Under heavy selling pressure on technology stocks, the Taiwan stock market took a major hit on the 10th. The TAIEX plunged in the afternoon, closing at the day's low of 43,225.54, down 1,478.90 points. This marked the 6th largest single-day drop in history, completely wiping out the previous day's 1,201-point gain. Total turnover was approximately NT$1.324 trillion, with major stocks like TSMC and MediaTek falling significantly.

Number of Bookstores in Japan Drops Below 10,000, Now 40% of Peak Level

According to a survey by the Japan Publishing Infrastructure Center (JPO), the number of bookstores nationwide fell to 9,993 as of the end of March 2026, dropping below 10,000 for the first time. This is a decrease of 424 stores from the previous fiscal year. Compared to the peak of 24,237 stores in fiscal 1998, the current number is just over 40%. This decline comes amid the rise of online bookstores and a shrinking print market, with last year's print sales estimated to be under ¥1 trillion, indicating that government promotion efforts have yet to halt the trend.

South Korea Develops Real-World AI Applications in Patrol, Healthcare, and Other Fields

On the 21st in Seoul, the South Korean government showcased its Physical AI developments to foreign media. Startup Maum AI has developed the quadruped robot Jindo Bot for patrol and disaster relief, which is being prepared for market launch. Meanwhile, the Central Veterans Hospital is introducing advanced equipment like AI-assisted diagnostic systems and rehabilitation robots to promote efficient medical services, demonstrating the country's commitment to applying AI in practical scenarios.

Hotai Motor Aims for 30,000 RAV4 Sales, Continues to Evaluate US-Made SUVs and Pickups

Hotai Motor spokesperson Liu Mei-chun stated on the 21st that the company maintains its initial forecast for Taiwan's new car market this year, expecting a scale of 440,000 units. The company's three major brands are targeting a combined total of 165,000 units, with an estimated market share of 37.5%. Orders for the redesigned RAV4 have surpassed 15,000, and the annual sales target of 30,000 units remains unchanged. The company is also continuing to evaluate the possibility of importing American-made large SUVs and pickup trucks. April revenue hit a record high, driven by strong sales of the RAV4 and COROLLA CROSS, as well as the consolidation of five Hino dealerships in Japan.

Taiwan's Domestic Soybean Acreage Surges Over 5.5-Fold in 10 Years, Highlighting Sustainable, Low-Carbon Diets

While Taiwan relies on imports for its soybean demand, the cultivation area for domestic soybeans has been increasing annually, growing by more than 5.5 times over the past decade. Due to its water-saving and carbon-reducing benefits, it has become a highlight of sustainable eating. New varieties developed in recent years by the Tainan District Agricultural Research and Extension Station have also led to nutritious and functional products.

Taiwan Stocks Soar 1201 Points to Close at 44,704.44

The Taipei stock market opened high and surged today, with the benchmark index closing up 1201.66 points, or 2.76%, at 44,704.44. The total transaction value reached a massive NT$1.15193 trillion. Financial stocks led the gains with a 6.3% jump, as all eight major sectors advanced.

Nan Pao Begins Shipments of Semiconductor Adhesives, Aims for New Revenue High This Year

Nan Pao Resins announced at its May 21 investor conference that it has begun shipping semiconductor adhesives through its joint venture, Hsin Bao C-MAT, which is now contributing to revenue. CEO Hsu Ming-hsien stated that despite challenges like rising raw material costs, the company aims for a new revenue high this year. Hsin Bao C-MAT has secured certifications from multiple clients, including a world-class packaging giant. Nan Pao plans to maintain profitability by expanding revenue, optimizing its product mix, and controlling costs.

SpaceX Aims for 10,000 Launches Annually Within 5 Years; FAA Urges Improved Reliability

The head of the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration stated on the 20th that SpaceX aims to increase its annual launch count to 10,000 within five years. However, government officials have indicated that before approving an expansion of this magnitude, they must see improved reliability. This ambitious goal was disclosed to the FAA by SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell, and CEO Elon Musk also hopes to launch 10,000 satellites annually. The FAA is concerned about the impact on civil air traffic and emphasizes that higher reliability is necessary for approval.

Taiwan Stocks Plunge by 1478.9 Points

The Taipei stock market experienced a sharp decline on the 10th, with the benchmark index closing down 1478.9 points, or 3.31%, at 43225.54. The total turnover reached NT$1.324 trillion. Among the eight major sectors, machinery and electrical stocks fell the most at 3.72%, while construction stocks bucked the trend, rising 4.45%. Overall, declining stocks significantly outnumbered advancing ones.

Eyeing AI Agent Opportunities, ASUS Subsidiary TWS Launches Enterprise Sovereign AI Platform

On May 21 in Taipei, ASUS subsidiary Taiwan Web Service (TWS) announced the launch of its AFS Suite, an enterprise sovereign AI platform. This move addresses the growing trend of "enterprise sovereign AI" becoming a core issue. The platform aims to help businesses build secure, governable, and scalable AI systems, giving them strategic control and reducing dependency on closed international AI platforms. TWS General Manager Wu Han-chang noted this will be a core infrastructure and a key competitive factor for businesses in the future.

NVIDIA's Beitou Shilin Science Park Site Rumored to Break Ground on 27th; Mayor Chiang Wan-an Says Schedule Up to NVIDIA

NVIDIA's Taiwan headquarters is set to be located in Taipei's Beitou Shilin Science Park, with rumors suggesting a groundbreaking ceremony on the 27th, possibly attended by CEO Jensen Huang. In response on the 21st, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an stated that the specific timeline must respect NVIDIA's decision. Although the city government signed a superficies contract with NVIDIA in February, it has not yet received architectural plans, leaving the start date unconfirmed.

Taiwan stocks surge 1347.39 points

The Taipei stock market opened high and surged on the 21st, closing up 1347.39 points, or 3.37%, at 41368.21. Turnover reached a massive NT$1.12931 trillion. Electrical and machinery stocks led the gains with a 3.85% increase, while financial stocks were flat.

E-DEX Expects Record-High Operations This Year, New Plant to Begin Production in H1 Next Year

Semiconductor component supplier E-DEX stated that it expects to achieve another record high in overall operations this year due to stable market demand. Chairman Chueh Sheng-che noted the company has entered the CoWoS, 2nm, and AI server sectors, and has begun shipments to the US and Japan. To meet customer demand, a new factory is scheduled for completion this year and will start production in the first half of next year.

June Electronics and Financial Futures Both Fall

The Taipei stock market fell by 1478.9 points to close at 43225.54 on June 10. The June electronics futures contract dropped 91.05 points to end at 2799.9, while the June financial futures contract fell 41.2 points to 2978.6. Both maintained a positive spread compared to their respective spot markets.

Lisa Su: TSMC is a Fantastic Partner, AMD Continues to Expand in Taiwan

Dr. Lisa Su, Chair and CEO of U.S. chip giant AMD, announced on May 21st an investment of over US$10 billion in Taiwan's industrial ecosystem. In an interview, she described TSMC as a "fantastic partner" and affirmed AMD's commitment to continued expansion and capacity ramp-up in Taiwan to meet soaring AI demand. She also confirmed that the next-generation AI chip, MI455, is on track for a launch in the second half of the year with very strong customer demand.

Tesla Announces FSD Supervised Availability in Multiple Countries, Including China

Tesla announced on May 21st that its Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system is now available in 10 countries and regions, including the US, Canada, and the highly competitive Chinese market. Facing a significant sales decline in China, the American EV giant aims to leverage its leading FSD technology to reclaim lost market share and boost revenue. The move, widely seen as a turning point to reverse its sales slump, has become a hot topic in China. The system is offered as a €99/month subscription in Europe, with global subscribers reaching 1.28 million.

AMD: 'Venice' EPYC Processor in Mass Production with TSMC's 2nm Process, to Expand to US Fab in Future

U.S. chip giant AMD announced on May 21st that its EPYC processor, codenamed 'Venice,' has entered mass production in Taiwan using TSMC's 2nm process technology. There are also plans to mass-produce it at TSMC's Arizona fab in the future. This move aims to accelerate the development of next-generation AI infrastructure and strengthens AMD's geographically diverse advanced manufacturing layout. The company also plans to extend the 2nm technology to its 6th generation EPYC processor, 'Verano'.

MOEA aims for 100,000 monthly drone output, 50% export share by 2030

Taiwan's drone exports in the first quarter of this year have already surpassed the total for all of last year, indicating rapid industry growth. In response, Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) announced on the 21st its goal to push the industry's output value beyond the NT$40 billion target by 2030, increasing monthly production capacity of complete drones from the current 15,000 to 100,000 units, and raising the export ratio from about 20% to 50%. The strategy aims to leverage economies of scale to narrow the price gap between Taiwanese military-commercial drones and Chinese products to within a factor of two.

Nvidia CEO: We Have 'Largely Ceded' the Chinese AI Market to Huawei Amid US Export Controls

In a May 20 interview with CNBC, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang stated that due to ongoing U.S. export controls on advanced AI chips, Nvidia has 'largely ceded' the Chinese AI chip market to Huawei. He noted this has accelerated the development of China's domestic semiconductor industry, where Huawei has shown strong performance. Although Nvidia's latest earnings report revealed a stellar 85% year-over-year surge in quarterly revenue to $81.62 billion, Huang remains cautious about re-entering the Chinese market, stating he has 'zero expectations' for now. However, he also emphasized that if conditions improve, Nvidia would be happy to return to serve the market it has cultivated for 30 years. The remarks highlight how geopolitics are reshaping the global semiconductor landscape.

Strong AI Demand: MOEA Expects Monthly Export Orders to Hit US$80 Billion by Year-End

Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) announced on the 20th that April export orders reached US$87.45 billion, a 48.1% year-on-year increase and a record high for the month. This robust growth is primarily fueled by surging demand for servers and networking equipment due to the ongoing AI boom. Huang Wei-chieh, Director of the Department of Statistics, expressed optimism, stating that with the AI trend and new products launching in the second half of the year, there is a 'quite high' probability that monthly orders will reach US$80 billion by the end of the year.

European EV Sales Surge as Iran War Marks Turning Point in Public Acceptance

Following soaring fuel prices caused by the Iran War, demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe saw strong growth in April. Data exclusively obtained by Reuters shows a 34% year-on-year increase in new EV registrations across 16 European markets, reversing last year's weaker-than-expected performance. Automakers like Volkswagen and Renault, along with sales platforms like Carwow, have all confirmed a significant rise in orders and searches, especially for affordable Chinese brands. Industry insiders believe this marks a fundamental shift in consumer views on energy security and a market turning point, not just a fleeting trend.

THSR's New N700ST Train to Roll Out by End of July; NT$2.6 Billion in Maintenance Equipment Procured

Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) announced that its new-generation N700ST train will roll off the production line by the end of July and is expected to arrive in Taiwan in August. To support this, THSR Chairman Shih Che signed a NT$2.6 billion contract with Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries on May 20 for maintenance equipment to handle the new train's future Bogie Inspections (BI) and General Inspections (GI). The entire project, including vehicle purchase, testing, training, and facility expansion, represents a total capital expenditure exceeding NT$30 billion, the largest since THSR's launch. The new equipment will be installed at the Yanchao Main Workshop, slated for completion by 2028, and will also be compatible with existing 700T trains to enhance overall maintenance efficiency.

Foreign Investors Net Buy NT$60.3B in Taiwan Stocks, 9th Largest in History; AUO Tops List with Over 150,000 Shares

Driven by stellar earnings from AI chip leader NVIDIA, the Taiwan stock market staged a major rebound on the 21st, closing up 1347.39 points at 41368.21. Foreign and mainland Chinese investors ended a four-day selling streak with a net purchase of NT$60.34 billion, the 9th largest in history. The capital primarily flowed into sectors like display panels, electronics manufacturing services (EMS), and mature process foundries, with AU Optronics being the most purchased stock at 156,900 shares.

Asian Stocks Rise as Market Digests Middle East Tensions, Samsung Labor Deal

Asian stocks mostly closed higher on the 21st, buoyed by promising prospects for Middle East peace talks and a preliminary labor agreement at Samsung Electronics that averted a strike. South Korea's KOSPI surged over 8%, while tech stocks were lifted by NVIDIA's strong earnings. However, analysts warn that gains could be reversed if US-Iran talks fail.

TAICCA Aims to Boost Cultural Influence with Taiwan's Original IPs on the International Stage

The 2nd Taiwan IP Expo has commenced in Malaysia. Yang Chung-tien, Vice President of the Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA), stated on the 21st that Taiwan's graphic IPs and character management are well-developed, emphasizing worldview, emotional connection, and storytelling. He hopes to use Malaysia as a strategic starting point for more Taiwanese original characters to go international, thereby enhancing the influence of the cultural content industry.

SpaceX Initiates IPO as Musk Aims to Build Trillion-Dollar Space Titan

Billionaire Elon Musk's aerospace company, SpaceX, took a major step towards Wall Street on the 20th by filing for an IPO in New York. The Initial Public Offering could be the largest in history, aiming to raise up to $75 billion. According to the S-1 filing, the company generated $18.7 billion in revenue in 2025 but posted an operating loss of $2.6 billion due to heavy investments in next-generation rockets and AI. Musk plans to retain control through a dual-class share structure, holding 85% of the voting rights post-listing. The company aims to list on the Nasdaq exchange under the ticker symbol 'SPCX' as early as June.

Nvidia Forecasts Revenue Above Expectations, Announces $80 Billion Stock Buyback Plan

On May 20, U.S. AI chip giant Nvidia projected its second-quarter revenue would surpass Wall Street expectations and announced an $80 billion stock buyback program. Despite the strong performance, its stock dipped slightly in after-hours trading. Analysts note that while Nvidia continues to lead the AI chip market, it faces fierce competition from tech giants like Google, Amazon, and AMD. These companies are actively developing their own chips, especially for the larger 'inference' market, posing a challenge to Nvidia's long-term dominance. Nvidia is moving to solidify its position by launching new products and ensuring supply chain stability.

Tigerair Taiwan Chairwoman: Every Flight is Profitable; Aiming for Record Revenue This Year, Profit No Less Than Last Year

Tigerair Taiwan's Chairwoman, Huang Shi-hwei, announced at a media briefing on May 20th that by adjusting routes in the first quarter, the company has achieved its goal of 'every flight being profitable.' She noted that by removing unprofitable routes like Ibaraki and Asahikawa, the company's financial health has significantly improved. Q1 revenue reached NT$5.538 billion, a 19.6% year-over-year increase, with a net profit after tax of NT$1.335 billion, up 41.6%. Huang expects the average load factor to exceed 90% this year, and with rising oil prices pushing up fares, revenue is set to hit a new high, while the profit target is to be no less than last year's.

Tesla China Urgently Hiring for Autonomous Driving Test Roles After Musk's Visit

Following CEO Elon Musk's visit to China, Tesla China urgently posted multiple job openings for autonomous driving testing on May 14, sparking speculation that its industry-leading Full Self-Driving (FSD) system is set to gain official approval. The recruitment drive spans major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, aiming to systematically advance the localization of FSD testing. Although Tesla aims to secure approval by Q3 to reverse its sales slump, it still faces regulatory and data compliance hurdles. Its April sales in China fell by 9% year-on-year, knocking it out of the top ten new energy vehicle companies.

China's April Economic Data Weakens; UBS Expert Cites Policy Shift After Q1 'Strong Start'

On May 20, Song Yu, Chief China Economist at UBS Securities, stated that the weakening of China's key economic data in April was due to a policy shift towards risk control after achieving a 'strong start' in the first quarter. He noted that this pattern of strong initial support followed by a shift is a common cause of short-term cyclical fluctuations in China's economy. He anticipates further policy adjustments to meet the goals for the first year of the 5-year plan. Regarding real estate, he views the current adjustment as a result of policy; while current measures are 'like side dishes' with limited impact, their continuous accumulation will help normalize the market and reduce the drag on the economy.

Eastern Media International to Distribute NT$1.2 Dividend Per Share; Pet Cloud and Natural Beauty Units Turn Profitable

Eastern Media International (EIM) announced at its year 115 shareholder meeting a dividend of NT$1.2 per share, comprising NT$0.4 in cash and NT$0.8 in stock. The company stated that its subsidiaries, Eastern Pet Cloud and Eastern Natural Beauty, both turned profitable last year. Furthermore, a government policy completely banning the use of food waste for pig feed starting in 2027 is expected to increase future grain import volumes and EIM's warehousing operations.

Eastern Media International to Distribute NT$1.2 Dividend Per Share; Pet Cloud and Natural Beauty Units Turn Profitable

Eastern Media International (EIM) announced at its year 115 shareholder meeting a dividend of NT$1.2 per share, comprising NT$0.4 in cash and NT$0.8 in stock. The company stated that its subsidiaries, Eastern Pet Cloud and Eastern Natural Beauty, both turned profitable last year. Furthermore, a government policy completely banning the use of food waste for pig feed starting in 2027 is expected to increase future grain import volumes and EIM's warehousing operations.

ADATA: Samsung Strike to Have Limited Impact on Output, But Psychological Effect May Drive Price Hikes

Simon Chen, Chairman of memory module maker ADATA, stated on the 20th that the full-scale strike at Samsung in South Korea, set for the 21st after labor negotiations failed, should have a limited impact on annual memory output. However, he predicts the psychological effect of the event could lead to price increases for DRAM and NAND Flash. Chen anticipates the memory market will remain in short supply for the next two years, and ADATA will continue to build up its inventory, which is expected to reach NT$50 billion by the end of the third quarter.

Spending NT$10 Billion on KFC and Pizza Hut? Uni-President's Lo Chih-hsien: 'No Comment' on M&A Rumors

On May 20, after a shareholders' meeting, Lo Chih-hsien, Chairman of President Chain Store Corp., responded to market rumors. Regarding the investment in Japanese supermarket LOPIA, he stated it's 'inconvenient to comment' as it's under review. For rumors of a NT$10 billion bid for the operating rights of KFC and Pizza Hut, he offered 'no comment.' However, he emphasized that any merger or acquisition with a positive impact on shareholders and society would be 'seriously considered.' He also mentioned that there is no ceiling for 7-ELEVEN's expansion in Taiwan, with 10,000 stores being a future possibility.

Far EasTone partners with Amazon Leo, service could launch next year, says President

Far EasTone Telecommunications has announced a partnership with Amazon's low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet service, Amazon Leo, to become its authorized reseller in Taiwan. President Chee Ching stated that after a government review process, the service aims for launch "as soon as possible," with a possibility for next year. She also commented on Chairman Douglas Hsu's health, saying he is "in recovery."

Taiwan Futures Firms' ANC Ratios Decline Amid Stock Market Boom; 10 Plan Capital Injections

As Taiwan's stock market heats up, the ANC ratio (Adjusted Net Capital to required margin for open interest) of futures firms is declining, raising alerts. According to the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), while none of the 14 dedicated futures firms have breached the 15% regulatory red line, a total of 10 are planning cash capital increases or subordinated debt issues to strengthen their capital. The Taiwan Futures Exchange (TAIFEX) has also formed a special task force to review whether the current calculation formula needs optimization.

CTBC Financial Expects Central Bank to Hike Rate by 0.125% in June, Sees NTD Appreciating by Year-End

At its Q1 investor conference on May 19, CTBC Financial Holding's President, Kao Li-hsueh, stated that the company internally expects Taiwan's central bank to raise interest rates by half a code (0.125%) in June, with another potential hike before year-end. Regarding the exchange rate, she anticipates the New Taiwan Dollar will appreciate, potentially reaching a range of 30 to 30.5 per U.S. dollar by the end of the year, driven by a strong stock market and tightening monetary policy.

Eclat Textile Maintains 6-Month Order Visibility; Founder Hung Chen-hai Sees Traditional Stocks as Undervalued

Taiwanese textile giant Eclat Textile announced at an investor conference on the 19th that its order visibility remains at six months. General Manager Hung Jui-ting expressed cautious optimism for this year's operations, targeting monthly revenues over NT$3 billion, excluding February. The company also plans to build a new AI-powered factory in Indonesia. Retired founder Hung Chen-hai made a surprise appearance, commenting that traditional industry stocks like Eclat are undervalued as market capital flows into AI. Eclat's Q1 net profit reached NT$1.834 billion, a 14-quarter high.

Telecom Stocks Become Safe Haven; Chunghwa Telecom and Far EasTone Hit New Highs Against Market Trend

On May 19, as the Taiwan stock market fell and key AI stocks faced a correction, investors sought refuge in telecom stocks. Chunghwa Telecom surged by about 5% intraday, reaching a historic high of NT$144. Far EasTone also touched its record high of NT$99.5. This trend reflects investors moving capital to the telecom sector, known for its stable revenue and profits, during market volatility.

Lin Min-hsiung: Strong Taiwan Stock Market Boosts Luxury Home Sales for Yuanli Construction

Lin Min-hsiung, Chairman of Pxmart and Yuanli Construction, stated on the 21st that due to the strong performance of the Taiwan stock market, many who profited have been buying luxury homes, driving Yuanli Construction's sales growth against the market trend last year. The landmark project "One Park Taipei" is nearly sold out. He noted that despite a weak overall property market, Yuanli's brand advantage allows it to thrive. This year, the company will focus on selling "Four Seasons Manor," with the Four Seasons Hotel in the Xinyi District expected to open next year. Lin also expressed confidence that Pxmart's sales remain stable regardless of stock market conditions, citing quality comparable to high-end channels.

ASEAN Brief: AI Boom Boosts Singapore & Malaysia Exports, Vietnam Solar Firm Secures Funding

On May 21, 2024, an ASEAN economic brief highlights key developments: Singapore and Malaysia's April exports surged, driven by AI demand. Vietnamese solar startup Stride secured $15 million in funding to address power supply pressures. Laos and Cambodia signed a memorandum to jointly combat cross-border fraud. Thailand's Prime Minister visited France to deepen economic cooperation. The Philippines expects science and innovation to boost its economy. Myanmar's president inspected capital city development, and Cambodia is considering extending its visa-free pilot program to the EU.

Taiwan IP Expo Launches in Malaysia, Bilateral Effort to Tap Southeast Asian Market

Taiwan's Creative Content Agency (TAICCA) has once again partnered with Malaysia for an IP licensing exhibition. Through a dual-track strategy of brand promotion and licensing negotiations, they aim to create a one-stop platform for creative and industrial collaboration between Taiwan and Malaysia. This cooperation seeks to establish successful commercial applications for character brands and pave the way for expansion into the Southeast Asian market.

Bank of Taiwan's Yang: Gold Price Below $4,500/oz a Relative Low for Long-Term Investment

Amid high volatility in international gold prices, Yang Tien-li, Manager of Bank of Taiwan's Precious Metals Department, said today that while foreign institutions have divergent forecasts, the bank believes that if the gold price falls below $4,500 per ounce, it represents a relatively low level for the long term. He advised investors to adopt a dollar-cost averaging approach.

Taipei Fubon Bank Opens New Branch in Kaohsiung's Nanzih District, Citing Growth Potential

Seeing potential in Kaohsiung's Nanzih District, Taipei Fubon Bank officially opened a new branch there on May 20. The move aims to meet the diverse financial needs of local residents and businesses, driven by the influx of semiconductor industries like TSMC and population growth. The new branch will offer both personal and corporate banking services as part of the bank's strategy to optimize its network in central and southern Taiwan.

Standard Chartered to Cut Over 7,000 Back-Office Jobs in 4 Years with AI, Aims for Higher Profit

British bank Standard Chartered announced it is raising its target for Return on Tangible Equity (ROTE) to boost profitability. To achieve this, the bank plans to cut over 7,000 back-office positions within four years by promoting the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, accounting for 15% of its back-office workforce. CEO Bill Winters emphasized that the move is not purely about cost-cutting but about replacing lower-value human capital with financial capital. The bank will also focus on high-margin businesses like wealth management.

Korean Firm FADU Deepens Collaboration with Taiwan's Semiconductor and Storage Ecosystem to Target AI Market

Korean SSD controller manufacturer FADU announced on the 20th its plan to strengthen collaboration with Taiwanese partners like ADATA and deepen ties with Taiwan's semiconductor and storage industry ecosystem to target the AI market. Founded in 2015, FADU has already entered mass production with at least two of the world's top five hyperscale cloud service providers.

PANJIT Aims for $1B Annual Revenue, Deepening Focus on AI and Robotics

On May 20th, at its 40th-anniversary event, Frank Fang, President of power semiconductor manufacturer PANJIT Group, announced the company's goals to achieve US$1 billion in annual revenue, a market capitalization of NT$100 billion, and become a key global supplier. The company is actively expanding into applications for artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. The revenue share from AI applications is expected to increase from 7-8% last year to 10-15% this year.

Taiwan's April Export Orders Hit Second-Highest Ever at US$87.45B, Up 48% for 15th Straight Month of Growth

Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs announced on May 20th that due to strong artificial intelligence (AI) demand, April's export orders reached US$87.45 billion. This marks a new high for the same month and the second-highest single month on record. The figure represents a 48.1% year-on-year increase and the 15th consecutive month of growth. Cumulative orders for the first four months of the year also hit a record high for the period at US$319.36 billion.

Taiwan's April Export Orders Hit Second-Highest Ever at US$87.45B, Up 48% for 15th Straight Month of Growth

Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs announced on May 20th that due to strong artificial intelligence (AI) demand, April's export orders reached US$87.45 billion. This marks a new high for the same month and the second-highest single month on record. The figure represents a 48.1% year-on-year increase and the 15th consecutive month of growth. Cumulative orders for the first four months of the year also hit a record high for the period at US$319.36 billion.

Despite TSMC's Cost Concerns, ASML Expects First Chips from High NA EUV in Months

Christophe Fouquet, CEO of top semiconductor equipment maker ASML, announced on May 19 that the first products made using its new High-NA (Numerical Aperture) EUV lithography machine are expected within months. This follows comments in April from ASML's largest client, TSMC, that the machine is too expensive. Speaking at a conference in Belgium hosted by imec, Fouquet argued that the new equipment will reduce patterning costs for the most advanced logic and memory chips.

Japan Stocks Close Higher as Nvidia Forecast Boosts SoftBank

Japanese stocks closed higher on the 21st, led by a rally in technology shares. The rise was primarily driven by Nvidia's strong revenue forecast, which supported the sector, and a significant surge in SoftBank Group's stock price. Market sentiment was further boosted by expectations of a US-Iran peace agreement.

Nvidia's Q1 Revenue Hits Record High, Driven by AI Boom

American AI chip giant Nvidia announced its latest financial results in San Francisco. Benefiting from a surge in AI hardware demand, its Q1 revenue for the fiscal year 2027 ending April 26 reached a record $81.6 billion. This represents an 85% year-over-year and 20% quarter-over-quarter increase, surpassing Wall Street expectations and highlighting its leading position in the global AI infrastructure wave.

U.S. Stocks Rebound to Close Higher as Market Awaits Nvidia Earnings

On May 20, as the market awaited the earnings report from AI chip giant Nvidia, the three major U.S. stock indices rebounded. Led by technology and chip stocks, the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all saw gains of over 1%. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index surged by 4.49%, indicating optimistic expectations for the AI-related industry.

AI Agent Craze: Research Firm Estimates 19% and 68% YoY Growth for AI and General-Purpose Servers, Respectively

Research firm DIGITIMES predicts that a surge in enterprise demand for AI Agents will drive the global hardware market. This year, shipments of AI servers and general-purpose servers are expected to grow by 19% and 68% year-over-year, respectively. The report also forecasts that by 2026, terminal devices like AI glasses, AI laptops, and humanoid robots will experience rapid growth, while the soaring power demand from AI data centers will create opportunities for on-site power generation solutions like Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs).

EVA Air Achieves Best-Ever Q1 with Record Passenger Revenue and AI-Driven Cargo Boost

EVA Air has announced that its Q1 2026 net profit reached a record high for the period and the second-highest for a single quarter. The airline's passenger revenue hit an all-time high, benefiting from the Lunar New Year holiday, cherry blossom season, and increased demand for Europe/Americas routes due to the Middle East conflict. Meanwhile, strong global demand for AI equipment provided a stable foundation for its cargo business, contributing to a robust performance across both sectors.

Strong AI Demand Keeps Q1 Current Account Surplus Above US$60 Billion

Taiwan's Central Bank announced on the 20th its balance of payments statistics, revealing that strong demand for artificial intelligence (AI) boosted the Q1 2026 current account surplus to US$62.53 billion, the second-highest quarterly figure ever. The goods trade surplus, exports, and imports all set new all-time highs. A Central Bank official believes that if the AI boom continues, the current account surplus could remain at a high level of over US$60 billion in subsequent quarters.

Grab: Huawei Map Partnership Excludes Taiwan, Alibaba Cloud Not Used

In response to data security concerns over its acquisition of foodpanda's Taiwan operations, Southeast Asian ride-hailing and delivery giant Grab clarified on May 20th that its map service, GrabMaps, partnership with Huawei does not include Taiwan, a policy it pledges to maintain permanently. Grab also emphasized that it does not use Alibaba Cloud for app data storage, with Amazon Web Services (AWS) as its primary provider and data mainly stored in Singapore. This move aims to assure Taiwan's Fair Trade Commission and the public of its compliance with data security and privacy laws.

ASEAN Express for May 20, 2026: Vietnam's E-commerce Booms, Singapore Becomes Southeast Asia's Largest Stock Market

This May 20 ASEAN economic brief covers multiple countries. Vietnam's e-commerce market is set to hit $37.2 billion by year-end as it deepens ties with India. Laos is holding its benchmark interest rate at 8% to combat inflation. Singapore, with a market cap of $645 billion, has surpassed Indonesia to become Southeast Asia's largest stock market. The Philippines recorded a record balance of payments deficit of $7.41 billion for January-April. In Myanmar, a company is producing eco-friendly sanitary pads from banana fiber. Malaysian AI chip firm SkyeChip's stock soared nearly 300% on its IPO debut. In Thailand, bank lending is recovering due to increased corporate borrowing. Cambodia approved $450 million in investments focused on agriculture and energy. Japan is providing $5 million in aid to Indonesia to build a fish market, strengthening its South China Sea strategy.

Singapore Stock Market Becomes Southeast Asia's Largest by Market Cap, Driven by Safe-Haven Inflows

Bloomberg reports Singapore's stock market has surpassed Indonesia's to become the largest in Southeast Asia with a market capitalization of $645 billion. Analysts attribute this to inflows of safe-haven funds driven by global uncertainties like the Middle East conflict. Singapore's stable political and economic environment, strong rule of law, and clear tax system are attracting high-net-worth families, boosting the banking sector's wealth management business and overall profitability. Data from the Monetary Authority of Singapore shows a significant increase in non-bank customer deposits in March, confirming the trend of capital inflows.

Singapore Stock Market Becomes Southeast Asia's Largest by Market Cap, Driven by Safe-Haven Inflows

Bloomberg reports Singapore's stock market has surpassed Indonesia's to become the largest in Southeast Asia with a market capitalization of $645 billion. Analysts attribute this to inflows of safe-haven funds driven by global uncertainties like the Middle East conflict. Singapore's stable political and economic environment, strong rule of law, and clear tax system are attracting high-net-worth families, boosting the banking sector's wealth management business and overall profitability. Data from the Monetary Authority of Singapore shows a significant increase in non-bank customer deposits in March, confirming the trend of capital inflows.

Century Vivant Expands into Southeast Asian Smart Agriculture with Drone Applications

Taiwanese company Century Vivant announced it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with its Philippine partner, FUKUNG AGRICULTURE, to jointly promote the application of drones in smart agriculture. This move aims to address the challenges of global climate change and labor shortages, tapping into the Philippines' vast potential for agricultural upgrading. By introducing technologies for farm inspection, precision spraying, crop monitoring, and data analysis, the collaboration will help local farmers improve efficiency and reduce costs, injecting new growth momentum into Century Vivant's drone business expansion in Southeast Asia.

Google Challenges Meta with Gemini-Powered Smart Glasses, Drawing Market Attention

Google announced its first 'audio (smart) glasses' on May 19 at its I/O developer conference in Mountain View, California, set for a fall launch. The device integrates Gemini and operates by connecting to a smartphone; a model with a display will be released later. After trying them, 3C tech expert Tim哥 praised the smooth user experience powered by Gemini and the impressive real-time translation, noting that the screen resolution surpasses Meta's comparable products. A Google executive stated that future display models will prioritize safety when integrating navigation features.

Winmate Forecasts Quarterly Growth This Year, Plans New Plants in Japan and Thailand to Diversify Production Risks

At its shareholders' meeting on May 20, industrial PC manufacturer Winmate announced it expects quarterly growth this year and plans to expand overseas to mitigate risks. Chairman Lü Gu-ching stated that a factory will be set up in Japan in the second half of the year to meet drone demand, with plans to acquire a Thai factory next year to serve markets in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The company will also deepen integration in the defense, maritime, and semiconductor supply chains and develop edge AI applications with IC companies.

To Bolster Semiconductor Cooperation, Penang Speaker Calls for Renewing Taiwan-Malaysia Investment Agreement [Interview]

Law Choo Kiang, Speaker of the Penang State Legislative Assembly in Malaysia, said in a recent exclusive interview with CNA that amidst global supply chain restructuring and geopolitical shifts, the "Taiwan Plus One" trend is deepening the symbiotic relationship in the semiconductor supply chain between Taiwan and Malaysia. He emphasized that Penang's semiconductor industry has developed for over 50 years, and renewing the Taiwan-Malaysia investment agreement would further boost the momentum for cooperation.

STARLUX Airlines Awarded SKYTRAX 5-Star Rating for Second Consecutive Year

STARLUX Airlines announced on the 20th that it has once again received the 5-Star Airline certification from the international air transport rating organization SKYTRAX for the second year in a row. Known as the "Oscars of the aviation industry," this award recognizes STARLUX's high standards in airport services, cabin environment, and catering quality since its inception. The airline also announced new routes to Busan and Prague, launching in June and August, respectively.

Multiple Passive Component Stocks Hit Limit Up on Strong AI Demand, Tight Supply, and Price Hike Expectations

On May 20, passive component stocks became a key pillar supporting the Taiwanese stock market, with multiple firms like Yageo, Walsin Technology, and Holy Stone hitting their daily trading limits. Analysts attribute the surge to soaring AI demand, which is causing supply shortages and expectations of price increases. Global manufacturers are prioritizing high-end MLCCs and tantalum capacitors for AI, leading to a supply crunch even for standard MLCCs, with lead times extending to 12-16 weeks. Taiwanese firms are benefiting from order shifts and are ramping up production to meet strong demand expected in the second half of the year.

Far EasTone Shareholder Meeting: Vice Chairman Hsu Hsu-ping Announces 'Telecom Growth King' Status and Record-High Dividend

At Far EasTone's shareholder meeting today, Vice Chairman Hsu Hsu-ping announced that the company has once again become the 'telecom growth king' for its 2025 performance and will issue a record-high cash dividend of NT$3.81 per share. Although Chairman Douglas Hsu was absent, he stated in a press release that FET's stock price has outperformed peers this year and that the company must get 'faster and better.' President Chee Ching unveiled the post-merger 'Magnify 3' strategy, focusing on synergy, services, and AI to drive the next phase of growth.

Riding AI Infrastructure Boom, Tatung Enters US Renewable Energy and Power Grid Supply Chain

To capture power-related business opportunities in the AI era, Taiwan's Tatung Company successfully entered the North American market by participating in the major U.S. power industry exhibition, IEEE PES T&D 2026. The company also secured orders for a U.S. solar farm, demonstrating its expanding influence and order-winning capabilities amid the global AI infrastructure wave. At the exhibition, Tatung received several orders for pad-mount and pole-type transformers from clients in the renewable energy and power infrastructure sectors, with deliveries scheduled for 2026 to 2027.

Industrial Figures: Taiwan Doubles Economic Strength, Sheds 'One-China' Dependence in 10 Years of DPP Rule

As President Lai Ching-te's second inauguration anniversary approaches, marking 10 years of DPP governance since the 2016 power transition, industrial and economic figures stated today that Taiwan's gradual reduction of dependence on the Chinese market and pivot to global deployment over the past decade has not only led to massive growth in GDP, exports, and capital markets but also concurrent improvements in democracy, freedom, and social welfare, making its overall national strength vastly different from 10 years ago.

Bernstein Raises TSMC Price Target, Says Intel and Samsung Haven't Closed Gap

U.S. research firm Bernstein on the 18th raised its price target for TSMC's ADR from $351 to $430, maintaining an 'Outperform' rating. Analysts noted that despite competition from Intel and Samsung, they have not narrowed the technology gap with TSMC. Bernstein considers TSMC the most reliable compound growth stock in the AI sector, poised to benefit from increased AI capital expenditures by cloud providers and maintaining a solid leadership position.

ASEAN News Brief (May 19, 2026): Vietnam's Growth to Slow, Thailand Becomes Top PCB Producer

This ASEAN economic brief for May 19, 2026, covers several key developments. The World Bank forecasts Vietnam's economic growth will slow to 6.8%. Laos finalized a hydropower project to export electricity to Vietnam. Singapore's exports surged, driven by AI demand. Thailand has become ASEAN's largest PCB producer after three foreign firms added 22 billion THB in investment. In the Philippines, digital bank deposits soared, but market share remains below 1% with most banks unprofitable. Malaysia connected its first battery storage system to the national grid. Cambodia's inflation climbed to 5.79%, while Indonesia's rupiah plummeted, sparking fears of layoffs.

Nextron Precision's Singapore Subsidiary Approves Earnings Distribution

Nextron Precision Industrial Co., Ltd. announced on the 19th that the board of its Singapore subsidiary, NEXTRONICS ENGINEERING PTE LTD, has resolved to distribute earnings of SGD 1,479,373 (approx. TWD 36.6 million). The funds will be converted to US dollars and remitted to the Taiwanese parent company. As of the first quarter of this year, Nextron's investment balance in the subsidiary was TWD 687 million.

Taiwanese Startup Gwo-Shyuan Biotech Wins at SelectUSA Tech, Plans US Subsidiary

This year, Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs led 24 startups to the SelectUSA Tech competition in the U.S., securing a world-leading total of 1 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze medal. Gwo-Shyuan Biotech won first place in the Health Tech category with its innovative MRI contrast agent technology and plans to establish a U.S. subsidiary this year to expand its market presence. The Small and Medium Enterprise and Startup Administration stated that this achievement showcases Taiwan's R&D strength and international competitiveness in fields like health, defense, and energy.

Taiwan Enters Top 20 for the First Time in 2026 Global Startup Ecosystem Index

In the 'Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2026' released by international innovation research firm StartupBlink, Taiwan climbed five spots to 20th place, achieving its best-ever ranking and entering the top 20 for the first time. It was also recognized as the fastest-growing among the top 20 ecosystems. The National Development Council stated that this highlights Taiwan's strong growth momentum and international competitiveness.

Douglas Hsu on Succession: "What Father Doesn't Pressure His Son?" - No Need to Worry

At U-Ming Marine Transport's shareholder meeting on May 21 in Taipei, Vice Chairman Douglas Hsu, presiding for his father, Chairman Hsu Hsiang-tung, addressed succession concerns. He stated that with the Far Eastern Group's 70-year history of corporate governance and professional teams, there is no need to worry. He also mentioned his father's health is recovering and he is often at the office. President Wang Shu-chi announced U-Ming's first LNG carrier will join the fleet in Q3, aiming to become Taiwan's first LNG transport company. He also noted that the Strait of Hormuz closure and rising oil prices have limited, or even favorable, impacts on the company.

NVIDIA's Strong Earnings Propel Taiwan Stocks to 1,441-Point Intraday Gain, 7th Largest in History

On the 21st, the Taiwan stock market staged a revenge rally in Taipei, driven by NVIDIA's better-than-expected earnings and outlook, coupled with a retreat in U.S. Treasury yields. The TAIEX surged by 1,441 points intraday to a high of 41,461.93, marking the 7th largest intraday point gain in history. Electronics and semiconductor stocks led the charge, with heavyweights like TSMC and MediaTek soaring. Passive components and PCB sectors also saw multiple stocks hit their limit-up prices amid active trading.

Douglas Hsu Chairs U-Ming Shareholder Meeting for Father, Lays Foundation for Sustainable Growth

U-Ming Marine Transport's shareholder meeting was held on May 21, chaired by Vice Chairman Douglas Hsu on behalf of his father, Chairman Hsu Hsu-Tung. Hsu stated that in response to challenges in the shipping industry, the company will enhance operational resilience and build a foundation for sustainable growth by adopting AI and entering the offshore wind and LNG transport sectors. President Wang Shu-chi expressed optimism, predicting a very healthy bulk shipping market for the next two to three years due to increased demand and constrained supply. The meeting approved the fiscal year 114 financial report, a cash dividend of NT$2.8 per share, and revealed expansion plans to grow the fleet to over 100 vessels.

US Stocks Rebound, NVIDIA Earnings Exceed Expectations; Taiex Expected to Reclaim Monthly Average, Say Analysts

On May 21, investment analysts suggested that due to the rebound in US stocks on May 20, strong NVIDIA earnings, and positive Taiwan export order data, the Taiwan stock market is poised to reclaim its monthly moving average and challenge new highs. Although the market fell on the 20th due to institutional selling, optimism for AI prospects remains strong. Concurrently, AMD CEO Lisa Su's arrival in Taiwan on the 20th for a forum adds further buzz to the tech sector.

US Media: OpenAI to File for IPO in Coming Days, Targeting September Listing

According to The Wall Street Journal, citing sources familiar with the matter, ChatGPT developer OpenAI is preparing to file for its Initial Public Offering (IPO) in the coming days, possibly as soon as the 22nd. The company, valued at $852 billion in its last funding round, is working with Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley on its prospectus with the goal of going public as early as September. Meanwhile, Elon Musk's SpaceX and AI giant Anthropic are also expected to pursue IPOs this year.

AMD CEO Lisa Su's Whirlwind Visit to Taiwan Stirs AI Buzz Ahead of COMPUTEX

Chip giant AMD's Chair and CEO, Lisa Su, arrived in Taiwan on a private jet on May 20 for a whirlwind visit, drawing attention ahead of the upcoming COMPUTEX Taipei. According to reports, she will attend closed-door meetings and speak at a forum on the 22nd to discuss the AI wave with media executives. There are unconfirmed rumors that she might meet with TSMC Chairman Wei Zhe-jia to secure more production capacity. Su's visit highlights the importance of Taiwan's supply chain to the AI industry.

Apple's App Store Blocked Over NT$69.5 Billion in Potential Fraudulent Transactions Last Year

Apple Inc. announced that by combining human review with Artificial Intelligence (AI), its App Store prevented over $2.2 billion (approximately NT$69.57 billion) in potentially fraudulent transactions in 2025. The cumulative amount blocked over the past six years exceeds $11.2 billion. Furthermore, last year alone, Apple rejected over 2 million problematic app submissions and prevented the creation of over 1.1 billion fraudulent accounts to continuously enhance platform security.

Daren App, Operator of PRO360 Platform, to List on OTC Market in Mid-June

Daren App Inc., which operates the 'PRO360' lifestyle services marketplace, plans an over-the-counter (OTC) listing in mid-June with a tentative underwriting price of NT$36. Chairman Li Lun-chia stated the company will refine its matching algorithm, deepen partnerships with strategic allies like Taiwan Taxi and Far EasTone, and replicate its business model in markets such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia. This strategy aims to address the low online penetration in Taiwan's large lifestyle services market and drive future growth.

Mercuries & Associates Acquires OK Mart, Total Stores Reach 1219 by End of March

Mercuries & Associates Holdings reported its Q1 2024 financials, with a 10.47% year-over-year revenue increase to NT$3.837 billion and an EPS of NT$0.54. The main growth driver was its existing Simple Mart channel, not the OK Mart business it took over on March 27, as only about 5 days of OK Mart's revenue were recognized in the first quarter. The merger brought the total number of stores in Taiwan to 1219 by the end of March. The company plans to continue cultivating community retail through its dual-brand strategy, franchising, and digital transformation.

Tigerair Taiwan to Announce 2 New Japan Routes in June, Momotaro-Themed Aircraft to Debut in July

Tigerair Taiwan Chairman Huang Shih-hui announced on the 20th that two new routes to Japan will be launched by the end of the year, with details to be revealed in early June. The airline will also introduce two new painted aircraft this year; one, a collaboration with Japan's Okayama Momotaro, will have its maiden flight on July 14 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Okayama route. These moves are part of Tigerair's "Brand Leap, Flight Evolution" strategy, which also includes a new "tigertel" flight-plus-hotel package, an AI trip planner, and a new theme song.

Leopard Energy Enters AI Data Center Market; Affiliate Silergy Secures US Order

Renewable energy company Leopard Energy announced on the 20th the establishment of a new subsidiary, Leopard Supercomputing, to enter the AI data center market, aiming for revenue contribution in Taiwan this year. Meanwhile, its affiliate Silergy stated it has secured a US order for a quantum-safe energy storage system developed in collaboration with Canada's Aegis and US-based Quantum eMotion. Both companies expect to achieve record-high revenues this year.

Research: TV Panel Prices to Hold Flat in May, Monitor Panels to See Price Hike

According to a report released by research firm TrendForce on May 20, panel prices for May show a mixed trend. Prices for all sizes of TV panels are expected to remain flat, as are laptop panels. However, prices for liquid crystal display (monitor) panels are projected to rise. For TVs, brand-side demand adjustments have led manufacturers to control production to maintain prices. Monitor prices are increasing due to stable demand, while laptop panel prices are holding steady amid pessimistic outlooks for the second half of the year.

Samsung's May 21 Strike: Experts Say Increased Delivery Uncertainty Will Weaken Competitiveness

In South Korea, labor negotiations at Samsung have broken down, leading the union to announce a full-scale strike starting May 21. Memory industry players analyze that this could drive up prices for DRAM and NAND Flash due to psychological effects. A semiconductor industry expert noted that while Samsung can cover short-term demand with inventory, a prolonged strike could impact the High-Bandwidth Memory (HBM) supply chain, affect AI server shipments, and weaken Samsung's foundry competitiveness due to increased delivery uncertainty. The actual impact will depend on the strike's participation rate and whether the South Korean government intervenes.

Yulon Nissan Plans Multiple New Models; China Motor Reports Good Progress on MG4 Localization

Yulon Nissan announced on the 20th that it plans to introduce 5 redesigned and 8 new models by 2028, with a sales target of 13,000 units for NISSAN and INFINITI this year, comparable to 2025. Meanwhile, China Motor Corporation stated it is optimizing the MG brand's sales pace and that the localization rate for the new MG4 is progressing well. A delivery plan will be announced promptly after receiving regulatory approval.

Compal to Showcase Integrated AI Infrastructure Solutions at COMPUTEX

OEM manufacturer Compal announced today its collaboration with AI infrastructure provider Exascale Labs. They will exhibit a new generation of integrated Artificial Intelligence (AI) infrastructure solutions at the 2026 Taipei International Computer Show (COMPUTEX), continuing to expand their technical capabilities and strategic presence in AI servers, liquid cooling, and data center infrastructure integration.

Foreign Investors Sell NT$46.6 Billion, a 4-Day Streak, Led by a 130,000-Contract Sale of First Financial

On May 20, the Taiwan stock market closed down 154.74 points at 40020.82, holding the 40,000 mark. The three major institutional investors recorded a total net sell of NT$57.272 billion. Foreign and mainland Chinese investors led the sell-off with NT$46.639 billion, marking their fourth consecutive day of net selling. The top sells included First Financial Holding, a Uni-President product, and UMC. Analyst Tsai Ming-han noted that the market is in a high-level consolidation phase with strong fundamentals from better-than-expected corporate earnings, and anticipates the upcoming COMPUTEX in early June will trigger the next rally.

Foxtron to Enter Australian/New Zealand Markets by End of Q3 with Mitsubishi-Partnered Vehicle

Foxtron, a joint venture of Hon Hai and Yulon, unveiled its new pure electric mid-size SUV, the 'CAVIRA,' on the 20th and announced its global market strategy. Chairman Li Bing-yan stated that a vehicle co-developed with Japan's Mitsubishi Motors is expected to launch in New Zealand and Australia between the end of Q3 and the beginning of Q4 this year. The company will adapt quickly to tariff policies in the North American market and is exploring a manufacturing and R&D center in Europe with a Polish state-owned enterprise. This demonstrates its commitment to global expansion, based on its CDMS (Contract Design and Manufacturing Service) model.

UBS Upbeat on China's Clean Energy Sector, Sees it Leading Overseas Expansion

UBS stated on the 20th that the overseas expansion of Chinese companies will be a key investment theme for the next 5 to 10 years. Against the backdrop of a global energy crisis sparked by geopolitics, Xu Bin, Head of Research at UBS Securities, noted that the clean energy industry chain is poised to become a representative for Chinese firms "going global." He projects a 20-30% compound annual growth rate in overseas revenue for related sectors. UBS also raised its profit forecast for China's A-shares this year from 8% to 11%.

Inventec Deepens Automotive Collaboration with NXP for the Era of Software-Defined Vehicles

Taiwanese contract manufacturer Inventec announced on May 20th the expansion of its partnership with NXP Semiconductors, moving from UWB technology to Zonal Control Architecture. This strategic shift addresses the "Software-Defined Vehicle" era. Through a joint lab project utilizing NXP's CoreRide Z248 and S32K5 microcontrollers, they aim to help automakers simplify wiring harnesses, accelerate development, and jointly drive innovation in electric vehicle technology.

Power Grid is Core Issue for Longtan Science Park Phase 3, Says Taipower Chairman; 7 Transmission Projects Needed

Amid rumors of TSMC's expansion into Longtan Science Park Phase 3, Taipower Chairman Tseng Wen-sheng stated on the 20th that the core issue for power supply is the grid, not generation. He pointed out that seven transmission projects must be completed to supply electricity. Taipower is currently assessing the situation and will seek assistance from the Taoyuan City Government. Plans for a new Datan No. 10 unit are still under internal evaluation.

Tong-Da Optical Deepens High-Speed Optical Communication Focus, Aims for Breakeven This Year

Tong-Da Optical announced at its shareholders' meeting its continued focus on high-speed optical communication and AI data center applications, aiming for breakeven this year. Its products are already used in 400G and 800G high-speed optical modules. The company plans to develop 800G/1.6T products and expand into optical transceiver modules, high-power lasers, and advanced semiconductor packaging materials through capital injections, investments, and a new plant by a subsidiary.

Yulon Projects Growth in Taiwan's Auto Market; Luxgen Stake Transfer Completed in April

Yulon Motor stated on the 20th that Taiwan's auto market is expected to stabilize and anticipates this year's sales to be flat or show slight growth compared to last year. The company also announced that the acquisition of Luxgen's equity by Foxtron was completed in April, and Luxgen will be deconsolidated from Yulon's financial statements starting in the second quarter. Despite a decline in Q1 revenue, operating profit grew due to cost control measures. Yulon will now focus its energy business on traction batteries and the 'behind-the-meter' storage market.

Taiwan Stocks Fluctuate 471 Points, Close Lower on Settlement Day but Hold 40,000 Mark

On May 20, ahead of NVIDIA's earnings report and on the day of Taiwan index futures settlement, the Taipei stock market experienced significant volatility. With investors on the sidelines, the index fluctuated by 471.96 points intraday, briefly dipping below the 40,000 level. Despite a late-session sell-off in heavyweight stocks, the index managed to close above the 40,000 mark at 40,020.82, down 154.74 points. While major AI-related stocks like TSMC fell, the passive components sector surged, with several stocks hitting their limit-up. An analyst noted that while a correction in AI stocks is underway after a significant rally, the market's fundamentals remain strong, predicting a period of high-level consolidation.

First FHC: No 'Public-Private Merger' Planned; 4-in-1 State-Owned Trust Merger Under Review

Following the Ministry of Finance's evaluation of a "public-private merger," market rumors suggested First Financial Holding (FHC) would be a pioneer, causing its stock to plummet on May 20 with a trading volume exceeding 170,000 lots. First FHC issued a statement denying any current plans for such a merger and noted that the ongoing review of a 4-in-1 merger of state-owned investment trusts would have a minimal impact, as the trust business accounts for less than 1.5% of its assets and profits. Meanwhile, in the legislature, discussions also covered the board election of International Bills Finance Corp. and the future of the "New Youth Peace of Mind" mortgage program.

Taiwan Stocks Fall 154 Points to Close at 40020, Holding the 40,000 Mark

On the 20th in Taipei, the Taiwanese stock market fluctuated as investors adopted a wait-and-see attitude ahead of NVIDIA's upcoming earnings report. The TAIEX closed down 154.74 points at 40020.82. Although it briefly fell below the 40,000 mark near the closing bell, it quickly recovered to hold the key level. Major large-cap stocks showed mixed results, with TSMC and Hon Hai declining while MediaTek advanced. The day's trading turnover was NT$978.923 billion.

Taiwan Stocks Fall 154 Points to Close at 40020, Holding the 40,000 Mark

On the 20th in Taipei, the Taiwanese stock market fluctuated as investors adopted a wait-and-see attitude ahead of NVIDIA's upcoming earnings report. The TAIEX closed down 154.74 points at 40020.82. Although it briefly fell below the 40,000 mark near the closing bell, it quickly recovered to hold the key level. Major large-cap stocks showed mixed results, with TSMC and Hon Hai declining while MediaTek advanced. The day's trading turnover was NT$978.923 billion.

Brogent's New Ciaotou Factory Opens, Boosting Capacity 5-Fold for High-End Motion Simulators

Motion simulator manufacturer Brogent announced the inauguration of its new factory in Ciaotou Science Park today, which will increase production capacity by 4 to 5 times. The facility will serve as a base for R&D, manufacturing, and testing of high-end motion simulation equipment. It aims to provide a complete solution for global theme parks, from creative concept to equipment operation, and is expected to increase the average selling price per customer by 15% to 20%.

Brogent's New Ciaotou Factory Opens, Boosting Capacity 5-Fold for High-End Motion Simulators

Motion simulator manufacturer Brogent announced the inauguration of its new factory in Ciaotou Science Park today, which will increase production capacity by 4 to 5 times. The facility will serve as a base for R&D, manufacturing, and testing of high-end motion simulation equipment. It aims to provide a complete solution for global theme parks, from creative concept to equipment operation, and is expected to increase the average selling price per customer by 15% to 20%.

Carrefour Taiwan Rebranding Countdown: Old Name to Be Discontinued from July, Says Alex Lo

Uni-President Enterprises Corp. Chairman Alex Lo stated after a shareholders' meeting on May 20 that Carrefour will be renamed at the end of June, and the old name will cease to be used from July 1. The new name cannot be disclosed yet due to legal and contractual restrictions. The operating company has been renamed "Kangda Shengtong Life Business Co., Ltd." and plans to build a large mixed-use complex in Tainan, expected to open in 2028, signaling a long-term strategy to create comprehensive stores that give consumers more reasons to visit.

EVA Air Upgrades Aircraft on Three Kaohsiung Routes to Tap Southern Market

To meet growing travel and business demand in Southern Taiwan, EVA Air began upgrading its aircraft today for three routes departing from Kaohsiung. The airline is now using wide-body Airbus A330-300s for its flights from Kaohsiung to Tokyo, Shanghai, and Macau, replacing the previous A321 model. This change increases seat capacity by nearly 70% to 309 and improves cabin amenities, aiming to establish Kaohsiung as a second operational hub and strengthen its market presence in Southern Taiwan. The inaugural flight was for the Kaohsiung-Tokyo Narita route.

Meta Launches 'Instants App' in Taiwan, Focusing on Unedited Social Sharing

Facebook's parent company, Meta, announced on the 20th the launch of its new 'Instants App' in Taiwan. The app encourages users to quickly share authentic, unedited moments, allowing only simple text to be added to photos. Driven by Instagram accounts, Instants aims to provide a pressure-free and private sharing experience, with snapshots that disappear after being viewed or after 24 hours, and cannot be screenshotted.

Shinfox Delisting May Affect Offshore Wind Phase II? Taipower Clarifies Contractor is Fuwei

With Shinfox Energy facing delisting, lawmakers have raised concerns about the progress of Taipower's Offshore Wind Power Project Phase II, which is contracted to Shinfox's subsidiary, Fuwei Energy. Taipower Chairman Tseng Wen-sheng emphasized on May 20th that the winning bidder is Fuwei, not Shinfox, and the cause of Shinfox's financial irregularities must be clarified. Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-hsin stated that any contract disputes would be mediated by the Public Construction Commission, adding that the most difficult part of the project, the foundation piles, is already complete.

HannStar Display Expects Q4 Turnaround, Bullish on Automotive Products

Panel manufacturer HannStar Display's General Manager, Chen Sheng-chung, stated on May 20 that despite ongoing inflationary pressures and the impact of the Middle East conflict, operations are expected to improve by the fourth quarter or next year through cost reduction efforts. The company is shifting its focus from consumer products to automotive and industrial control products, aiming for the automotive sector to eventually account for over 60% of revenue to stabilize profitability. Additionally, HannStar plans to mass-produce new eye-protection products in the second half of the year.

Lite-On's AI Revenue Surpasses 20% of Total, Chairman Tom Soong Says This Year Marks a New Starting Point for Growth

At its shareholders' meeting on May 20, Lite-On Chairman Tom Soong announced that revenue from AI-related business has exceeded 20% of the company's total. Viewing the industrial restructuring driven by rapid AI development as an opportunity, Lite-On aims to make it a key growth driver. The company has defined 2026 as its "Year One" for a new growth phase. General Manager Anson Chiu revealed Lite-On's participation in the 800VDC high-voltage DC technology for AI data centers, with small-volume shipments to a client expected to begin in Q4 of this year.