Reported 8 months ago
The hot demand for AI has led to a surge in air freight rates, with most shipments currently being large AI servers. Routes from Taiwan to Europe and the US have seen a sharp increase in freight rates this week. The high unit prices of AI servers, PCs, and smartphones have prompted major tech companies to ship before the end of June at higher shipping costs, driving up freight rates to over $9 per kilogram on transpacific routes, nearing the 300 NTD mark. The volume of cross-border e-commerce shipments from mainland China continues to increase, coupled with concerns about rising freight costs and tight cargo space, leading to early shipments and pushing up freight rates, making the second quarter of this year more noticeable in terms of price hikes. Optimistically estimating an early peak in the air freight peak season. Several freight forwarders have provided cargo freight quotes from China Airlines and EVA Air this week, with freight rates flying from Taiwan to the US West Coast rising to around 250-265 NTD per kilogram (including fuel surcharges), flying to the US East Coast rising to around 265-290 NTD per kilogram, and flying to Europe rising to around 170-180 NTD per kilogram. For air cargo transportation, the main push comes from e-commerce freight, with freight rates being driven by semiconductor machinery, AI chips, and servers, along with corporate production lines moving from China to Southeast Asia to boost trading volumes in the Asian market, with a more significant growth estimated for the third quarter. This year is seen as the year of AI, with most shipments currently being large AI servers and focusing on major companies such as Quanta, Wistron, ASUS, and Gigabyte, benefiting from the active infrastructure construction by hyper-scale data center customers. With Taiwan's AI supply chain in motion, the future of air freight is promising. According to estimates by The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA), approximately 20% of global transactions currently come from e-commerce, with the proportion in the transpacific region reaching as high as 60-70%. Mainland China's four small dragons, including Pinduoduo's Temu, SHEIN, Alibaba's AliExpress, and TikTok shop, have already announced an increase in third-quarter shipments, opening up new markets. It is noteworthy that to avoid the possibility of imposing high anti-dumping import tariffs by the US and Europe before the end of the year, the volume of sea freight exports of electronic commerce, electric vehicles, and renewable energy-related goods from mainland China has significantly increased since May, with freight forwarding companies believing that with the approaching tariff imposition date in July and August, concerns about not having enough sea freight might lead to an increase in air freight, bringing forward the air freight peak season to June and July. More rePorts from the Business Times on the US economic restart, Nike's financials exceeding expectations, Taiwan's first domestically-produced hybrid car price reductions, and the environmental lawsuit regarding the Taichung copper drum yard area being approved.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
As the mid-year 618 Celebration peaks on June 18, major e-commerce platforms are offering discounts and high credit card rewards to attract shoppers. Products like iPhone, appliances, and even gold bars are highlighted, while summer vacations drive ticket purchases. With momo offering over a million dollars in rewards during the '618 Mid-Year Sale', the demand for luxury goods and electronics is on the rise. The e-commerce frenzy is expected to drive a 40% increase in vacation ticket purchases this summer.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
Chip giant Intel is currently facing a class-action lawsuit for allegedly not disclosing the losses in its manufacturing division accurately and outsourcing about 30% of its production capacity to partners like TSMC, causing a significant drop in its stock price with a loss of over 36% in value. The lawsuit, initiated by Levi & Korsinsky, accuses Intel of misleading statements regarding its in-house manufacturing operations and seeks accountability for the estimated $7 billion loss in 2023, prompting disappointed investors to join the securities fraud lawsuit until the July 2 deadline.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
Several A-share listed companies in Mainland China have recently disclosed in their announcements that they are being pursued by local governments for tax payments dating back as far as 30 years, with some companies being asked to repay hundreds of millions of yuan in outstanding taxes. Reasons for these tax investigations include policy changes, underreporting, failure to report according to regulations, low pricing in related transactions, and misunderstandings of tax policies. Recent economic challenges in Mainland China are leading to stricter tax enforcement, with no set time limit for tax investigations, theoretically allowing the government to pursue taxes as long as there is evidence. The complexities of tax laws and enforcement make it challenging for companies to navigate these investigations and potential repayments.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
In June 17, 2024, our country is aligning with IFRS 17, which has been a concern for large life insurance companies who are actively preparing for it. Nan Shan Life Chairman Wei Baosheng expressed during PwC Taiwan's '2024 Taiwan Financial Industry Enterprise Leaders In-Depth Interview Special Edition' that the alignment with IFRS 17 in 2026 is a rare opportunity for the domestic life insurance industry and that foreign investors have confident expectations for its future development. He also emphasized the need to prepare for exchange rate risks in light of the increase in funds allocated for overseas investments.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
On June 17, 2024, former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee visited Delta Electronics in Taiwan, discussing future collaboration on power equipment business opportunities, especially in the solar energy sector. Delta highlighted Arkansas' active development in solar energy and potential business opportunities in power equipment, expressing the intention to deepen cooperation in becoming a key supplier in the power industry. Huckabee also mentioned the increasing population and power demands in the U.S., emphasizing the importance of reliable suppliers like Delta in providing stable power equipment for the market, strengthening the partnership between Delta and Arkansas for future endeavors in the American market.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
As the June off-season approaches and consumers tighten spending before summer vacations, department stores have started mid-year sales earlier than usual. With the industry facing the off-season, most stores experienced a slight decline or barely maintained performance in May compared to the same period last year. However, leading stores like Shin Kong Mitsukoshi saw growth amidst the challenges. In an effort to boost performance for the first half of the year, department stores are launching mid-year sales campaigns and aligning with e-commerce promotions such as the 618 Shopping Festival. By offering various incentives to members and forming partnerships across industries, stores aim to attract more customers during this period.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
In celebration of 15 consecutive years of being the top-selling and most energy-efficient brand, Hitachi Air Conditioner has launched an additional energy-saving subsidy of 1,000 yuan to encourage consumers to replace their old air conditioners at home. Not only can users save on electricity, but they can also enjoy the latest air conditioning technology. The company's series all come standard with freeze wash technology, which effectively removes dust, oil stains, mold, and other substances from the heat exchanger, as well as provides a high level of antibacterial protection. Hitachi Air Conditioner aims to promote energy conservation and environmental protection, aligning with the government's policy towards net zero emissions by 2050.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
On June 17, 2024, at 4:10 pm, with foreign buying interest returning and sectors like semiconductors, AI, and small-cap stocks taking turns to perform, the Taiwan stock index rose above 22,500 points. Factors affecting the market include the latest Fed interest rate decision and economic data from the U.S., with expectations of a rate cut leading to optimism in the financial markets. Strong performance in AI-related stocks, led by companies like NVIDIA and TSMC, continues to drive market momentum and sector rotation dynamics in Taiwan.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
East Sun (1319) has set a record high capital expenditure of 4.2 billion this year, with investments in molds and equipment exceeding 2.5 billion and 700 million, respectively. The company's CEO, Wu Yongxiang, revealed plans to continue expanding with additional land purchases and maintaining high capital expenditure next year. To address urgent production capacity issues, East Sun has invested nearly 1.6 billion in acquiring new land and is planning to build a new production factory and logistics center to increase production capacity by over 30% by the end of the year. The company is actively seeking opportunities to increase capacity to meet customer demands, considering options such as land purchases or rentals, with ongoing efforts to optimize existing facilities and enhance automation to cope with labor shortages.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
With continued strong performance in the AM sector and OEM taking over next year, East Sun is expected to see its revenue and profits rise this year. CEO Wu Yongxiang stated that with the upcoming launch of new energy vehicle models by traditional European, American, and Japanese automakers next year, the OEM market which has been sluggish for over three years is expected to turn around and rise. East Sun's revenue last year was 23.859 billion NT dollars, with a 12.1% year-on-year increase, and a net profit after tax of 3.019 billion NT dollars. Wu is confident that the company's operations will maintain growth momentum for the next three years. East Sun plans to distribute a dividend of 4 NT dollars per share. Wu highlighted the company's financial health, abundant cash reserves, and the strategic investment in new energy vehicle parts production. They are anticipating a significant increase in demand for related OEM parts as the new energy vehicle market expands.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
In order to promote the employment of middle-aged and elderly individuals, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, and Miaoli Sub-Bureau of the Ministry of Labor's Labor Development Bureau is offering subsidies of up to 500,000 NT dollars to encourage companies to hire retired middle-aged and elderly individuals. Companies are invited to apply for the 'Employing Retired Middle-Aged and Elderly Individuals to Pass on Professional Skills and Experience Subsidy Program' before June 30. One such company, Taiwan's Meng En Technology Co., Ltd., has hired a 71-year-old retired manager as an education and training lecturer under this program, demonstrating how retirees can contribute valuable industry knowledge and expertise. This initiative aims to utilize the valuable skills and problem-solving abilities possessed by seasoned veterans even after retirement, encouraging companies to hire retirees over 45 years old to impart their professional skills for government incentives. For more details and applications, interested parties can contact Taoyuan, Hsinchu, and Miaoli Sub-Bureau's Silver Hair Resource Center at (03) 5583-456.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
Peng Jinlong, Chairman of the Financial Supervisory Commission, expressed the importance of acquiring consent rather than resorting to hostile takeovers in financial mergers to obtain 100% ownership on June 17, 2024. Peng stated that while hostile takeovers may be a tactic, ultimately, financial mergers should be agreed upon willingly to ensure competitiveness, legal compliance, shareholder rights, and market stability. He emphasized the necessity of reaching mutual agreement to ensure a smooth merger process, even if initially acquiring over 10% of shares through a public bid. Peng highlighted the significance of international competitiveness for Taiwan's financial institutions and success in internationalization due to the establishment of financial holding companies over the past 20 years. He also mentioned that whilst not discussing specific cases, merging financial holding companies could be a feasible solution according to the Financial Holding Company Act, ensuring support for subsidiaries to maintain sound operations.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
Chang Hwa Bank, in cooperation with Changhua County Government, held a signing ceremony on June 17, 2024, to support the first self-redevelopment project. The project involves renovating a building that had been abandoned for years due to fire damage, with Chang Hwa Bank offering full financing to the landowners. By embracing green finance initiatives, the bank aims to promote urban redevelopment in line with government policies. The project will transform the building into a 26-story residential and commercial complex, enhancing living standards, boosting commerce, and revitalizing the cityscape of Changhua County.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
On June 17, 2024, the Federal Reserve (Fed) chose to hold off on interest rate cuts and reduced expectations for rate cuts this year, even as US inflation continued to cool. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq hit new highs as a result. However, investors exhibited cautious attitudes last week, leading to the largest weekly outflow of US stock funds in 18 months with a net outflow of $21.93 billion. Large funds saw the largest outflow of $14.94 billion, the highest single-week outflow since December 2022. Industry-specific funds saw inflows, especially in the technology sector, while bond funds like US government bond funds and money market funds saw inflows as well.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
Fong Hsing Steel Factory announced on June 17, 2024, that this week's plate prices for reinforcement bars, steel beams, and scrap steel remain unchanged, marking the ninth consecutive week without a price increase. International scrap steel prices have been stable, construction activities have been affected by rainy weather, and the recent housing control measures by the central bank are not expected to significantly impact steel prices. The decision to maintain prices unchanged this week is considered a reasonable move due to stable international raw material prices and good sales performance despite the previous week's unchanged prices. Weather conditions are currently the main factor affecting steel shipment volumes, while the impact of the central bank's measures on housing market demand is seen as limited.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
The implementation of the revised policy reform for actual payment medical insurance, which was originally scheduled to start in July, has been delayed until October 1, 2024. This delay is to allow for a buffer period following discussions with the Insurance Association. Starting from October, new insurance claims for accident and hospitalization coverage must be filed with the original receipts, without retroactive effects. The revised policy also introduces a mechanism for sharing insurance claim losses among companies and limits claim amounts. The revised policy for dividend policies will proceed as planned starting from July 1, focusing on transparent dividend mechanisms and cash flow tests.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
联德控股-KY（4912）计划私募，以并购AI服务器冲压件厂，并已进入议价阶段，最快年底敲定；市场热传的GB200液冷散热模组将于明年第二季量产。在强劲的车用和散热产品需求下，法人预测，联德今年EPS可能挑战8元，明年有机会超过一倍股本。联德将通过私募普通股筹措资金，以并购AI服务器冲压件厂，目标公司年营收约10亿元，利润约1亿元，未来将整合为整体解决方案厂，并计划在台湾或马来西亚独立上市，设定为三至五年内集团营收挑战300亿元的目标。
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
After Apple's AI operating system was announced at the Worldwide Developers Conference on June 17, 2024, tech stocks related to Apple saw a significant increase in stock prices compared to AI stocks, with notable gains in Taiwan's Apple supply chain stocks. Seventeen stocks, including leading companies like Foxconn (2360), experienced significant increases with strong foreign investment. Analysts believe that the introduction of the AI system at WWDC will boost iPhone sales and drive upgrades, making tech stocks a hopeful prospect in the second half of the year despite a slight decrease in foreign investment on the 17th.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
In collaboration with South Korean QRAFT Fintech Company, First SinoPac Investment Trust has announced the weekly financial risk sentiment signals (market sentiment indicators) for the US and Taiwan markets. The signals suggest the cash level in response to the risk outlook for the upcoming week, indicating a bullish market sentiment for both US and Taiwan stocks. Factors affecting the US market signal this week include low volatility in the S&P 500 index, soft economic data, and the correlation shift between short-term interest rates and commodities, reflecting positive investor sentiment towards future inflation and economic growth. Similarly, in Taiwan, the stock market showed bullish momentum last week with the central bank not raising interest rates but unexpectedly escalating the New Taiwan Dollar reserve requirement to manage market liquidity flow into real estate, signaling a positive outlook on economic stability and growth potential. The AI market risk sentiment signals do not show significant risks that require attention or adjustments to investment portfolio risk allocation, maintaining a bullish outlook in both markets.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
The patent system aims to promote industrial development, and the transparency and sharing characteristics of patent specifications contribute to achieving various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, such as equality, health, and environmental protection. Incorporating environmental protection, social responsibility, and corporate governance (ESG) has become one of the ways to realize SDGs. Supporting startups in obtaining patents and implementing sound intellectual property management can not only boost the development of new industries but also serve as a driving force for sustainable expansion of ESG and SDGs. The Active Patent Examination initiative introduced by Taiwan's Intellectual Property Office allows startups to expedite the patent application process, helping them establish intellectual property portfolios swiftly and enhancing their intellectual assets for business growth and reputation enhancement.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
CIP's regional president, Hsu Nai-wen, announced that the Jing-Miao offshore wind farm has signed contracts for underwater foundations supply, transportation, and installation, marking the first offshore wind farm to sign the final contract for underwater foundations in the 3-1 phase. The project is moving into the CPPA market mechanism and aims to be fully completed and grid-connected by 2027, showcasing Taiwan's commitment to green energy. CIP is collaborating with several companies to achieve this goal, emphasizing the importance of offshore wind energy for Taiwan's energy future.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
Taiwan's stock market has been performing well recently, with 112 stock funds seeing their net asset values hit record highs by June 14, leading to profits for more than 450,000 investors. Six funds have achieved over 2000% returns since their establishment. Experts advise investors to focus on stock selection and consider actively managed Taiwan stock funds to capitalize on the upward trend. Strong economic fundamentals and industrial structure make Taiwan stocks attractive to foreign investors, with the tech and traditional industries showing growth potential. Factors such as loose monetary policies and upcoming US presidential elections are expected to support a bullish market trend in the second half of the year, particularly in technology stocks related to AI.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
According to the latest report from automotive data research website iSeeCars on June 17, 2024, secondhand electric car prices are continuing to decline, with an average selling price thousands of dollars cheaper than gasoline-powered cars. The report indicates that the price gap between used electric cars and gasoline cars has widened significantly, with used electric cars experiencing a price drop of 30-39% in the past year, while used gasoline cars only saw a 3-7% decrease. Reasons for this trend include a greater supply of used electric cars on the market, decreasing consumer interest in electric vehicles, and actions by companies like Tesla reducing prices to meet market demand.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 8 months ago
Established in 2024 by Li Shuilian on June 17th, Yuanxiang has been providing solutions for chip removal and filtering in various milling composite machines. The company has a loyal customer base, including 70% of the major Japanese brands producing composite machines, and covering 90% of imported machines in Taiwan with chip removal and filtering systems. Yuanxiang has recently developed an upgraded version of the smart and energy-efficient chip removal machine, marketed domestically under the trademark 'Conbay Expert' with an early-bird discount for 1,000 units. The newly launched drum single-track filtering chip removal machine has attracted nearly 300 orders since its release, showcasing the company's value creation and establishing itself as a provider of chip removal solutions. With features like compact size, energy-saving, and automated chip discharge, emphasizing on electricity conservation and labor efficiency, the machine has gained popularity in the industry with its unique filtering capabilities catering to both oil-based and water-based filaments.
Source: YAHOO