EZ News

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 23-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 49,783 on turnover of $11-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed slightly lower Wednesday as large-cap tech stocks (大型股) took a pause ahead of the 50,000-point mark, while the upcoming National Day holiday also kept investors from raising their positions. Analysts say although the local market's fundamentals (基本面) remain sound, uncertainty created by U.S. monetary policy could affect its performance. Li Chen-Hsiu denied right to run for local office in Hsinchu Local election officials have disqualified (取消資格) former lawmaker Li Chen-hsiu from running for mayor of Hsinchu's Zhubei… over a requirement for Chinese citizens naturalized as Taiwanese nationals to have 10 year's household registration before seeking public office. The Hsinchu County Election Commission says that Li, a so-called "mainland spouse," would have had to submit proof of having given up her household…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 35-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 49,857 on turnover of $8.7-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed at a fresh high Tuesday, but gains were capped as the benchmark index remained below the 50,000-point mark, with some investors selling shares to lock in gains. But contract chipmaker TSMC stayed resilient and still posted gains after retreating from an intraday high, helping the broader market break its previous closing record. New THSRC trains may pave way for family cars, senior citizen cards The minister of transportation and communication says, new Taiwan High Speed Rail trains could pave the way for a pilot program involving family cars and the expanded use of senior citizen cards. Chen Shi Kai made the statement after KMT lawmaker You Hao asked if the THSR planned to designate family cars, since some parents complained about being asked to quiet noisy children. Chen says, the MOTC has discussed the…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 24-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 49,736 on turnover of 15-billion N-T. The market surged more than 1,200 points on Monday to hit a new record high as buying in AI-related stocks was boosted by a rally from tech stocks on Wall Street last Friday. Metaverse healthcare can boost Taiwan's global competitiveness Health Minister Shih Chung-liang says the integration of metaverse technology into healthcare could enhance the country's international visibility and competitiveness in the medical sector. Speaking at a conference in Taipei, the minister said the development marks an important milestone in Taiwan's efforts to combine its strengths in information and communications technology with high-quality healthcare. According to Shih, such technology can be used in anatomy education, preoperative consultations with patients, surgical planning and intraoperative (術中) navigation and guidance. THSRC adds Friday…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 37-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 48,391 on turnover of 16.8-billion N-T. FDA fines probiotic firm for 7th time this year over kidney disease ads The Food and Drug Administration has fined a probiotic seller 4-million N-T so far this year for repeated violations over advertisements falsely claiming that the product could "reverse kidney disease." It seventh time the company has been fined this year. According to the F-D-A, the Huo Hua Sheng probiotic product been ordered to remove the offending (違法的) advertisements, while its endorser, nephrologist Chiang Shou-shan, has been referred for disciplinary action. The F-D-A says the product and Chiang have appeared frequently in television and other media advertisements promoting purported health benefits and making exaggerated (言過其實的，過度的) claims that the probiotic could treat or reverse kidney disease. The Huo Hua Sheng product has been fined repeatedly over…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 21-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,961 on turnover of 11.2-billion N-T. The market made solid gains on Wednesday, despite Wall Street closing largely in negative territory overnight. Defense ministry mum on alleged Philippines warship donation plan The Ministry of National Defense Ministry is refusing to comment on reports that the government is considering gifting the Philippines a soon-to-be-decommissioned Navy warship. According to the United Daily News, the Lai administration is hoping to donate the Navy's 500-tonne-class Jin Chiang Patrol Ship to the Philippines after it's decommissioned at the end of this year. K-M-T lawmaker Ma Wen-chun is voicing concern that the reported plan to donate the warship could undermine (破壞) the safety of Taiwan fishermen operating in an area where the exclusive economic zones of the two countries overlap. No government agency has confirmed whether such a plan is…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 135-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,767 on turnover of 10.4-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday as investors reacted to speculation (推測) that rising US Treasury yields (美國公債殖利率) and international crude oil prices could push America's central bank to hike interest rates as it seeks to battle inflation. Koo says America is showing "goodwill" over the late delivery of F-16Vs Defense Minister Wellington Koo says the United States is "showing goodwill (善意)" over the late delivery of F-16V Block 70 fighter jets and two sides are still in talks over the matter. The statement comes after the first two of the 66 F-16Vs Taiwan purchased departed from the U-S on August 17 and reportedly remain in Hawaii. According to Koo, the contract for the fighter jets did not include financial penalties (罰款) for late delivery - meaning Taiwan will not receive financial compensation (賠償). The Air Force spent…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 150-points this morning from last Thursday's close, at 47,873 on turnover of 13.6-billion N-T. The market lost ground last Thursday - the last day of trading prior to the four-day holiday weekend - as investors digested recent swings in oil prices and ahead of talks between U-S Presidents Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping at the White House Lai marks Teachers' Day by touting AI teacher training plan President Lai Ching-te has marked Teachers' Day by touting his administration's plans to invest 11-billion N-T by 2029 to strengthen educators' digital and artificial intelligence skills. Taking to Facebook, Lai said the Ministry of Education has launched the "AI Talent Ark Program" to build teaching capabilities and AI-enabled learning environments in elementary and secondary schools. Lai also said his administration will continue listening to educators, improve teaching conditions, and ensure teachers receive the…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 82 point-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 48,075 on turnover of $9.5-billion N-T. With the Taiex repeatedly hitting a fresh high, the local bourse ranked as the fourth-largest stock market in terms of market value in the world as of Wednesday afternoon, according to the up-to-the-minute data released by MarketCapWatch. The data indicates that on Wednesday, the Taiex rose 0.75 percent, pushing up the market capitalization of the local main board to about $5.3 trillion US dollars. As of 5 p.m. Wednesday, Taiwan replaced India, whose market value stood at $4.94 trillion, to become the fourth-largest stock market in the world, according to MarketCapWatch's statistics. Taiwan's new armored vehicle makes live-fire media debut The Ministry of National Defense has given its first live-fire demonstration of the 205 mm mobile gun system. That's a domestically developed and produced armored vehicle that is set to…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 95-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,895 on turnover of $12-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed slightly higher Tuesday after the benchmark Taiex surged nearly 900 points to a record intraday high, prompting investors to lock in profits and limiting the day's gains. Among old-economy stocks, many of which retreated from their intraday highs, and petrochemicals lost ground as crude oil prices fell. 11** workers remain hospitalized after power plant accident** 11 workers remain hospitalized after an accident at a Taipower plant in Kaohsiung yesterday. One of them has now regained consciousness after falling into a hydrochloric acid tank. Taipower says, the incident took place yesterday morning, when a contractor and workers were doing maintenance on a hydrochloric acid tank used in the plant's seawater electrolysis process. One of the workers was reportedly transferring hydrochloric acid from the tank…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 262-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,981 on turnover of 19.5-billion N-T. The market closed sharply higher on Monday as buying was sparked by a big rally for tech stocks on Wall Street at end of last week. Analysts says investors opted to pick up tech stocks during the trading day, and the strong buying continued to benefit semiconductor stocks, led by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. Lai touts New Kaohsiung industrial park President Lai Ching-te says Kaohsiung's Baipu Industrial Park will help strengthen Taiwan's semiconductor ecosystem, balance north-south development, and boost the country's global competitiveness. Speaking at a groundbreaking ceremony, Lai said the nearly 89-hectare park would create more than 4,000 jobs and generate about 300-billion N-T in annual production value, marking a new milestone for Taiwan's semiconductor industry. According Lai, the development is expected to shorten…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 26-points this morning from Friday's close, at 47,207. The market gained solid ground on Friday, as investor were boosted by a rally on Wall Street overnightafter both oil prices fell. Lai talks up his priorities for Taiwan's cultural future President Lai Ching-te has been outlining his four priorities for Taiwan's cultural future. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2026 National Cultural Congress in Taipei, Lai said Taiwan's economic achievements should be accompanied by cultural growth, as while an economy makes a country strong, culture makes a country great. According to Lai his administration will be focusing on nurturing younger generations, strengthening local cultural identity, promoting innovation that balances technology with human dignity (人的尊嚴), and helping the world better understand Taiwan. The National Cultural Congress is held every four years. It was held this year under the theme of "Future…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 87-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,936 on turnover of 7.6-billion N-T. The market rebounded from its recent downturn on Wednesday, but turnover was thin as investors remained cautious ahead of the U-S Federal Reserve's policy decision on interest rates. Digital minister discusses AI, cybersecurity during US visit Digital Minister Lin Yi-jing has held talks with U-S officials, think tanks and major technology companies during a visit to Washington, D.C. According to the Ministry of Digital Affairs, the talks focused on cooperation on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. The ministry has not named the U-S government officials who met with Lin and his delegation, but has said they also met with several Washington-based think tanks, including the Hudson Institute and the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The delegation also met with OpenAI, Meta and Amazon. The ministry says one of the…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 35-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,546 on turnover of 4-billion N-T. The market closed lower yesterday, led by the electronics sector amid concerns over AI development after the heads of three U-S AI giants warned of risks and called for a slowdown in development. FM announces plans to open representative's office in Cebu Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung says the Lai administration is preparing to open a representative office (代表處) in Cebu Province in the Philippines. According to Lin, the office will be Taiwan's second in the country after Manila and will serve travelers and businesspeople in the central Philippines, which is a popular tourism destination (旅遊目的地). The statement comes after Nikkei Asia reported on the new office earlier this week. Lin has not said when the Cebu office will open. CDC warns that flu cases are expected to peak around Mid-Autumn Festival The Centers for Disease Control says…

Tai-Ex opening lower Ministry of Sports bolsters rules to keep athletes from representing China KMT lawmakers meet San Francisco officials on US trip Trump downplays the need to check AI development and says he doesn't want to cede edge to China Emmy Awards Getting Underway -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 174-points this morning from Friday's close, at 46,010 on turnover of 8.2-billion N-T. The market moved sharply lower on Friday, led by the electronics sector, amid growing fears over an interest rate hike by the U-S Federal Reserve and a surge in international crude oil prices. Earthquakes rattle east coast area No damage or injuries are being reported following this morning's earthquakes that rattled Hualien. The first of the quakes had a magnitude 4.7 and struck at 3:21 and was centered some 54-kilometers south southwest of Hualien County Hall at a depth of 17-kilometers. It was felt stongest in Hualien's Wanrong Township and Nantou's Yushan area - where it registered a magnitude 4 on the Central Weather Administration's intensity scale. The quake registered a 3 on the intensity scale in other parts of Hualien. The second quake struck at 6:44 and was centered some 43-kilometers east southeast of Taitung County…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened opened down 289-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,651 on turnover of 10.9-billion N-T. Two-story building damaged by adjacent construction work in Taipei A two-story building in Taipei has been severely damaged after an adjacent (鄰近的) construction work caused its ground floor to crack and leak yellowish muddy water. No injuries were reported. The building are located in an alley off Minquan East Road, near Xingtian Temple M-R-T Station. Officials say an initial investigation suggests that a breach in the underground diaphragm wall during foundation excavation and retaining operations caused water and sand leakage. The Taipei City Government says construction work at the site has been suspended due to failure to maintain the safety of adjacent public facilities and buildings, and work will not resume until an improvement plan has been submitted and approved. The contractor and the supervisor have each been…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 52-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,130 on turnover of 8-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher on Wednesday despite giving up early gains, as investors await the release of the latest data on U-S consumer prices (消費者物價) and inflation. Investor momentum (動能) stalled as profit-taking set in when the Tai-Ex moved closer to the all-time intraday high of 48,218 points. AIT chief on economic impact of Taiwan Strait conflict American Institute in Taiwan Director Raymond Greene says a conflict across the Taiwan Strait could inflict (造成傷害／損失) an economic cost greater than that of World War II. Greene made the remarks in a keynote address at the 2026 Taipei Security Dialogue. The event was organized by the government funded Institute for National Defense and Security Research think tank (智庫). According to Greene, Taiwan doesn't need to demonstrate that it can win a war outright in order to deter a…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 36-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,142 on turnover of 8.5-billion N-T. The market ended lower on Tuesday, largely due to a lack of guidance from Wall Street, as U-S indices were closed on Monday for a holiday. The index initially posted solid gains, but soon turned lower, as investors opted to stay on the sidelines (保持觀望). However, market heavyweight Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing remained resilient (表現穩健的；有韌性的) and closed the day in positive territory, to stop the broader market from falling further. Man arrested for alleged hit-and-run killing of nurse Police in Taichung have arrested a man wanted in connection with a hit-and-run (肇事逃逸) incident that resulted in the death of a nurse. The case has been referred to prosecutors and the man is facing charges of homicide (殺人罪；致人死亡) and hit-and-run. The incident occured early Tuesday morning and closed circuit television footage has been aired on…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginally higher this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,335 on turnover of 10.9-billion N-T. The market rose by over 700 points on Monday to close at its second-highest ever record as buying focused on large-cap semiconductor stocks after U-S tech companies rallied at the end of last week. Arrest warrant issued for missing senior aide indicted in lawmaker's corruption case The Taipei District Court has issued an arrest warrant for Kao Chin Su-mei's former legislative office director after he jumped bail. According to the court, police responded late Sunday after an electronic wrist monitor belonging to Chang Chun-chieh issued a low-battery alert. Police failed to locate Chang, but recovered his wrist monitor, which had been "broken and thrown away." Chang was indicted along with Kao Chin and 22 other people in early June on charges of corruption and fraud-related charges related to the embezzlement of public funds…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 172-points this morning from Friday's close, at 46,724 on turnover of 14.1-billion N-T. The market gained ground Friday following two days of volatility, as investors reacted to a rise on Wall Street overnight, as big tech companies rallied. Artists welcome return of 'Taiwan Pavilion' name as Gwangju Biennale opens Taiwan artists and curators are welcoming the opening of the Gwangju Biennale's Pavilion Project's "Taiwan Pavilion." It follows a naming controversy that led to China's withdrawal from the event. The foundation had initially listed the pavilion as being part of the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts in promotional materials. However, it was agreed to allow it to use the name "Taiwan Pavilion" on August 26 following accusations of political censorship (政治審查) from artists and the Lai administration. China's curatorial team announced its withdrawal from the Pavilion Project last week, citing the participation…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 134-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,991 on turnover of 8.9-billion N-T. Record Kaohsiung rainfall causes NT$77 million in agricultural losses Kaohsiung officials say, record rainfall in the city has caused more than 77 million NT in agricultural losses. The city's Agricultural Bureau says that wax apple growers were hardest hit, losing around 80 hectares of crops worth over 18 million. Guava growers were the second worst affected, followed by papaya farmers. Kaohsiung received a cumulative (累計) 1712 milimeters of rainfall in August… surpassing the previous record for August rainfall, set in 1931, and was four times the month average. Tang Prize** exhibition opens in Taipei** The 2026 Tang Prize Exhibition opened yesterday at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The exhibition features the optical tool used by Sustainable Development laureate Susan Solomon nearly 40 years ago. The tool measured wavelengths…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened 161-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,325 on turnover of $10-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan fell sharply Wednesday as a spike (急遽上升) in international crude oil prices amid renewed United States attacks on Iran heightened fears of inflationary pressures. The bellwether electronics index fell 2.06 percent after contract chipmaker TSMC shed 2.25 percent, and with the tech sector facing a sell-off, buying rotated to select old economy stocks as safe havens (避險標的). The financial sector also outperformed the broader market, rising 0.45 percent, as analysts say many stocks have been undervalued, encouraging bargain hunters to buy. Civil groups calls for relase of HK activist Civil groups are calling for the release of Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong after he pleaded guilty (認罪) to a national security charge with a potential life sentence. Representatives from groups including Amnesty International Taiwan and the…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. THSRC Apologizes for Signal Failure Causing Delays A signal failure near Taipei Station caused train delays across the Taiwan High Speed Rail network last night. High speed rail officials reported that a turnout mechanism malfunctioned at the northern end of Taipei Station at 8:42 p.m. Maintenance crews were deployed immediately, and normal train operations were restored by 9:36 p.m. Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. apologized for the travel disruptions (中斷 / 擾亂), and confirmed that passengers delayed between 30 and 60 minutes qualify for a 50% ticket refund. Travelers affected by the service delay have up to one year to claim their refund at any high-speed rail station. (NS) CWA Rain Advisories for South and East The Central Weather Administration issued heavy rain advisories for Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and Taitung on Wednesday due to a persistent low-pressure system. The CWA warns that strong southwest winds will drive intense convective cloud systems across…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 49-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,177 on turnover of 10-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan ended lower Monday despite a late rally as bargain hunting emerged ahead of an increase in the local market's weighting under the latest MSCI regular index review. The market came under pressure initially after U.S. stocks fell Friday, following hawkish remarks by Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, and the early downturn also reflected a spike in crude oil prices following renewed military strikes in the Middle East. Taiwan Day to showcase Taiwanese culture in Poland The National Cultural Association of Taiwan is holding a two-day "Taiwan Day" cultural event in Poland later this month… featuring Taiwanese contemporary dance and folk arts (民間藝術), plus a market showcasing Taiwanese food and culture. A social media post said that performances at the event will "transform the Polish streets into a Taiwan temple…

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Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 96-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,070 on turnover of 12.5-billion N-T. Government preparing search and rescue team after Nepal‑Tibet flood The government says its has prepared Taiwan's national search and rescue team to travel to Nepal following the deadly flash floods near the Nepal‑China border earlier this week. According to the National Fire Agency, it has ordered the national special search and rescue team and rotating (輪流) units from Tainan, Hsinchu City and Chiayi County to prepare for departure. Fire Agency Director‑General Hsiao Huang‑chang says although Taiwan has yet to receive a request for help, the national special rescue and research team will respond in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to any such requests from affected countries. And the foreign ministry says there have been no reports of any Taiwan nationals being trapped or affected by the disaster. Russia Launches…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 57-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,890 on turnover of 8.4-billion N-T. However, the main board surged nearly 400 points within ten minutes of the opening bell to bounce back over the 46,000 mark, as investors were boosted by Nvidia's latest quarterly results - which beat expectations. AI-related and heavyweight electronics stocks are in focus this morning. Lawmakers to vote on drone procurement bills today Lawmakers are voting today on competing (競爭的) drone procurement (採購) bills. The vote had originally been scheduled for tomorrow. However, Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu proposed bringing it forward during cross-party caucus talks. The legislative caucuses agreed to move up the vote to allow lawmakers to return to their districts to inspect damage caused by the recent heavy rains and flooding in southern Taiwan. However, the D-P-P, K-M-T and Taiwan People's Party caucuses failed to agree on key…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 12-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,158 on turnover of $7-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Tuesday as major semiconductor stocks recouped early losses, but turnover remained moderate with as investors opted to sit on the sidelines as they wait for Nvidia's second-quarterly earnings results. Free flu and COVID-19 vaccination program to start on October 1 The Centers for Disease Control says this year's government-funded seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccinations will begin as usual on October 1. According to the C-D-C, it has purchased a record 7.05-million publicly funded flu vaccine doses for the upcoming flu season. The C-D-C also says the government has also purchased 2.4-million COVID-19 vaccine doses, including 1.9 million doses of newer-generation (新一代) vaccines for people aged 12 years or older. The publicly funded flu and COVID-19 vaccination program will open on October 1 for adults aged…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 33-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,728 on turnover of 5-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Monday, reversing earlier gains amid concerns about a possible major pullback following recent strong showing prompted many investors to stay on the sidelines, resulting in lower turnover. Business group raises concerns over labor shortage in white paper The Taiwan-based Chinese National Federation of Industries says labor shortages are a major issue facing the country's industrial development. The warning is included in the federation's 2026 white paper. According to federation vice chairman Zhan Cheng-tien, a declining birth rate and aging population are worsening the labor shortage and the lack of workers is a pressing challenge in terms of enhancing industrial innovation (工業創新) and economic resilience. The white paper suggests the government review its policy on migrant workers by shifting from a focus…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginally higher this morning from Friday's close, at 45,240 on turnover of 5.1-billion N-T. The market closed higher Friday as tech heavyweights rebounded from earlier weakness on bargain hunting. However, turnover was down from its five-day average of 880-billion N-T. Lai uses 1958 Kinmen defense ceremony to push his defense budget President Lai Ching-te says he believes that successful defense of Kinmen in 1958 is a prime example of "peace through strength. The statement came as Lai was attending the annual memorial of the anniversary of a Chinese artillery bombardment of Kinmen at the beginning of the Second Taiwan Strait Crisis. Speaking to the ceremony, Lai said the heroes in Kinmen - regardless of the their backgrounds - united as one to repel the aggression of communist totalitarianism and urged cross-party unity to supporting his 2027 defense budget. Prior to delivering his speech, Lai burned incense, laid a…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 222-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,942 on turnover of 12.1-billion N-T. The market closed in negative territory (下跌；收黑) on Wednesday, as the main board was dragged down (拖累) by the tech sector after A-I stocks were the heaviest losers on Wall Street overnight amid investor criticism that their prices have moved too high. Probe into allegations against Geneva envoy could take two months Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung says an ongoing investigation into numerous allegations (指控) against the Lai administration's representative in Geneva is likely to take two months. According to Lin, Greg Lee has now returned to Taiwan and is cooperating with investigators. The statements come after the foreign ministry received complaints that detailed seven categories of alleged serious misconduct by Lee…including workplace bullying (職場霸凌), incompetent leadership and using public resources for personal purposes. The…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 237-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,071 on turnover of 9-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday as investors opted to pocket gains from recent sessions amid concerns over volatility (波動) in the market on the settlement of August futures contracts. 4 firms and 15 individuals indicted in contaminated cooking oil scandal The Taichung District Prosecutors' Office has indicted (起訴) four companies and 15 individuals in connection with the recent contaminated cooking oil scandal involving Central Union Oil Corporation. All of the defendants (被告) have been charged with violating the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation as well for forgery (偽造) and fraud. According to the prosecutors' office, Central Union senior executives were aware that certain shipments of soybeans imported from Brazil had higher levels of heat damage, increasing the risk of a carcinogen (致癌物) forming during the manufacturing…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 65-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,922 on turnover of 8.4-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher, but on reduced turnover on Monday as investors appeared reluctant to chase prices amid concerns of a major pullback and instead opted to lock-in early gains in large-cap tech stocks. Premier Cho declines to countersign child savings legislation Premier Cho Jung-tai has refused to countersign the Special Act on Taiwan Future Accounts. The Act which was passed by lawmakers in July. According to the Cabinet, Cho is refusing to sign the Act due to violations of constitutional principles and due to concerns that it could allow wealthier families to accumulate larger amounts and ultimately (最終) widen the wealth gap, violating the principle of proportionality (比例原則 ， 相稱性原則). Cabinet spokeswoman Michelle Lee says the government will instead continue implementing the family support measures it approved in…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 30-points this morning from Friday's close, at 45,841 on turnover of 10.9-billion N-T. The market lost ground last Friday, on profit taking ahead of the nearest technical resistance around 46,000 points as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing gave up its earlier gains. Lawmakers to attend Asian Pacific Parliamentarians' Union meetings A delegation of 13 lawmakers is slated to travel to to Japan later this month to attend the Asian Pacific Parliamentarians’ Union 54th General Assembly and 88th Council Meeting. The delegation will be led by Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang. The event this year will held under the themes of inter-parliamentary cooperation to maintain (維持) a free and open economic order and strengthen regional supply chain resilience. Taiwan hosted the Asian Pacific Parliamentarians’ Union General Assembly last year. Starlux's Sorayama-themed A350 arrives in Taiwan A Starlux Airbus A350-1000…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 82 points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,104 on turnover of 10.5-billion N-T. MOFA warns on Uganda travel The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Ugandan immigration officers have withheld the passports of three Taiwan travelers and demanded that they produce Chinese passports, citing the country's "One China principle." According to the minister, three encountered the officers on arriving at Entebbe International Airport on Wednesday. They were eventually allowed to enter Uganda. However, the foreign ministry says immigration officers refused to return their Taiwan passports unless they produced passports issued by China in which entry stamps could be placed. Taiwan's representative office in Somaliland, which is responsible for affairs involving Uganda, and the Taiwanese business association in the country immediately provided assistance to the travelers. The foreign ministry is advising Taiwan nationals to…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 158-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,676 on turnover of 15.4-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Wednesday led by AI-related stocks, but turnover was limited as investors awaited the release of the latest U-S consumer price index data. Market watchers say the Tai-Ex managed to gain ground despite Wall Street declining overnight, as AI-related stocks listed on U-S indexes still moved higher, which sparked buying in their counterparts here in Taiwan. MOFA** seeks Indonesia clarification over China-announced joint naval exercise** The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has asked Indonesia to clarify a joint naval exercise east of Taiwan announced by China. The statement comes after China's defense ministry announced that joint Chinese-Indonesian Naval navigation exercises would be taking place. According to the foreign ministry, it "immediately contacted relevant parties" to learn more about the…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opens higher The Tai-Ex opened up 54 points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,175, on turnover of 10.3-billion N.T. The market closed slightly higher on Tuesday after recovering from early losses, as investors bought selected electronic component stocks (電子零組件股) at lower prices. Market watchers say the early decline followed losses on Wall Street after crude oil prices (原油價格) rose sharply. However, investors soon began buying AI-related stocks. Strong demand for AI devices also helped the Tai-Ex move back into positive territory (上漲區間) by the end of trading. Coast Guard apologizes over illegal entry case Coast Guard Administration Director-General Chang Chung-lung (張忠龍) has apologized for failures in the handling of two Chinese nationals who illegally entered Taiwan by rubber boat (橡皮艇). A member of the public found the boat near Taipei Port. Chang says a radar operator failed to follow standard procedures (標準作業程序), while patrol officers…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. The Tai-Ex opened down 44-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,883 on turnover of 11.7-billion N-T. The market gained solid ground on Monday as buying was sparked by a rally on Wall Street last Friday after weaker-than-expected job data and eased concerns about a rate hike by the U-S Federal Reserve. MOFA** probes workplace bullying accusations against Geneva envoy** The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has opened an investigation into allegations that President Lai Ching-te's top envoy in Geneva was involved in workplace bullying and other misconduct. According to the ministry, it formed a special task force, composed mainly of personnel from outside the ministry to conduct (執行) the investigation, after receiving a complaint against Greg Lee. The petition was from some of his subordinates (下屬) at the Taiwan representative office in Switzerland. The foreign ministry says the investigation is focusing on accusations of workplace bullying,…

Tai-Ex opening upward Taiwan envoy to Japan protests Nagasaki memorial designation, skips event Lai inspects Taoyuan Avenger Air Defense System Netanyahu rejects Trump's Gaza peace roadmap Ancient Rome shipwreck found -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Lai boards coast guard vessel to observe coastal defense President Lai Ching-te boarded a Coast Guard Administration vessel in New Taipei's Bali District to observe coastal defense (海岸防禦) operations during the Han Kuang military exercise. According to the Presidential Office, Lai received briefings (簡報) on the patrol vessel's equipment and coastal strike operations. He also inspected its missile launcher system and learned about its configuration and operational readiness (作戰準備狀態). Thursday marked the second day of the Han Kuang exercise, with drills in the north focusing on coastal defense and other defensive operations. Typhoon Dolphin moves west Meteorologist Wu De Rong says Typhoon Dolphin appears to be moving further west even as it continues to weaken. The Central News Agency cites Wu as saying that while the system is expected to pass near the Ryukyu Islands today, uncertainty in its projected track (預測路徑) is increasing, making it less likely that…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 123-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,487 on turnover of 14.2-billion N-T. The market returned to the 44,000-point level on Wednesday. Strong gains in technology shares helped the index move back above its monthly and quarterly averages (季度平均線). MAC warns on China's new entry-exit rules The Mainland Affairs Council says China's new entry-exit rules (出入境規定) could increase the risks for Taiwanese travelers visiting the country. The council says the rules include unclear national security measures and give authorities broad power to limit people's movement (限制人員行動). Speaking at a legislative hearing, council minister Chiu Chui-cheng said the rules put many of China's existing controls into law. He said these controls are already very strict for both Chinese citizens and foreigners. Chiu told lawmakers that the conditions for limiting people's movement remain unclear and too broad. He said this lack of…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened 449 points higher this morning from yesterday's close, at 43-thousand-809, on turnover of 25.5-billion N-T. The market closed almost unchanged (幾乎沒有變化) on Tuesday after moving by more than 1,000 points during the session. Early gains (早盤漲幅) were reduced by selling, as investors largely ignored an overnight rally (上漲行情) on Wall Street. Lai meets with Eswatini's visiting PM President Lai Ching-te has held talks with visiting Eswatini Prime Minister Russell Dlamini. During the meeting, Lai said the two countries are working together in industry, public health and digital development. He said his administration will continue to strengthen exchanges (加強交流) with Eswatini and help the country meet its development goals (發展目標). The cooperation includes energy projects, such as facilities for storing emergency oil supplies (緊急石油儲備). Lai also thanked Dlamini for Eswatini's support for Taiwan's participation in international…

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Typhoon Dolphin's current situation Han Kuang highlights: US-type methods, new tanks, more reserves Chou Ling-wen elected as first female CTBA president Japan's Economy Minister pledges greater market transparency Brazil President Lula's bid for reelection -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 1,677-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,610 on turnover of $33.5-billion N-T. Taiwan shares closed below the 40,000-point threshold on Thursday after a volatile session that saw the benchmark index swing more than 1,700 points, erasing an intraday surge of over 1,100 points as late selling dragged the market lower. Analysts say the correction has been unusually steep, with the Taiex down more than 6,192 points so far this month and on track for its biggest monthly point decline on record. MOFA opens Kumamoto earthquake donation account The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has opened a dedicated bank account for cash donations as it works to establish a relief fund for people in Japan affected by Tuesday's magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture. The Mega Bank account will accept donations from the public from tomorrow through August 31. Presidential Office spokesperson Karen Kuo says…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened slightly higher this morning at 40,048 points, with turnover of 15.7-billion N.T. dollars. The market fell sharply (大幅下跌) again on Wednesday, losing more than 1,500 points. Investors remain worried about the large amount of money companies are spending on artificial intelligence (人工智慧). MOFA to protest 'Taiwan, China' name in South Africa's ETA system The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it will protest (抗議) South Africa's use of the name "Taiwan, China" in its Electronic Travel Authorization (旅行授權) system. Taiwanese travelers are not yet able to use the system. But reports say Taiwan appears in the website's passport menu under the incorrect (不正確的) name "Taiwan, China." The foreign ministry says Taiwan's representative office in Pretoria has been told to file a formal protest and ask South Africa to correct the name. Control Yuan refers former top trade negotiator, Yang Jen-ni to disciplinary court The Control Yuan has…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 112-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,491 on turnover of 13.6-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan posted the third largest single-session point decline Tuesday as tech stocks took a beating amid lingering concerns over massive spending on AI development that may not deliver comparable returns. Analysts say the index faced pressure soon after the market opened as investors witnessed losses posted by tech stocks in the United States overnight. And memory chip suppliers in South Korea also tumbled, triggering more of a sell-off among local semiconductor stocks. (CNA - NS) Taiwan Search and Rescue on Standby After Kumamoto Quake Taiwan’s elite search and rescue teams are on standby to deploy to Japan following a powerful earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture. President Lai Ching-te and Premier Cho Jung-tai has instructed emergency agencies to prepare for deployment (部署). The National Fire Agency says it has…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 412-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 43,221 on turnover of 13.4-billion N-T. The market ended marginally lower on Monday, as large-cap tech stocks rebounded from early losses, while rotational buying in the financial sector helped limit the downturn. FDA** releases findings on Central Union cooking oil contamination** The Food and Drug Administration has released the findings of an independent investigation into the cause of carcinogen contamination in seven batches of cooking oil produced by Central Union Oil Corporation. Minister Without Portfolio Chen Shih-chung says the contamination began with a shipment of Brazilian soybeans. The investigation was conducted by an expert panel convened by the Food Industry Research and Development Institute. According to Chen, it identified three main problems - those being that high-risk raw materials were not properly managed, production irregularities were not…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 68-points this morning from Friday's close, at 43,585 on turnover of 8.6-billion N-T. The market took a beating on Friday, plunging over 1,000 points as a spike in crude oil prices due to escalating military conflicts in the Middle East and lingering concerns over a possible AI bubble spooked investor sentiment. 6,000 more doses of COVID-19 vaccine now available in Taipei The Centers for Disease Control says 6,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines will be delivered to the Taipei City Department of Health this week and will be distributed to contracted (承包的) medical institutions and outpatient hospital clinics. The statement comes amid claims that clinics in Taipei were reportedly out of COVID-19 vaccine doses. Concern over a lack of vaccine doses comes after the C-D-C last week announced the extension of its publicly funded COVID-19 vaccination program through September 28 due to a rise in the number of cases. According to…

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opens lower The Taiwan Stock Exchange opened 81 points lower this morning. Opening turnover reached 6.77 billion N-T dollars. Taiwan shares followed other Asian markets lower as oil prices rose above 100 U-S dollars a barrel amid growing conflict (衝突) in the Gulf. U-S stocks also fell overnight as higher oil prices worried investors. The S&P 500 lost 1.2 percent, the Dow fell 1 percent, and the Nasdaq dropped 2.2 percent. Traffic controls possible as Noul approaches The Directorate General of Highways says traffic controls (交通管制) may be introduced on five highway sections. These include the Southern Cross-Island Highway and the East Coast Highway. The announcement comes after the Central Weather Administration issued a sea warning for Tropical Storm Noul. Noul is the 12th tropical storm of this year's season. The highways agency also activated its emergency response team (緊急應變小組) at 7 this morning. Officials said mountain roads could become…