Reported 11 months ago
European banking executives at a fintech conference in Amsterdam highlighted the increasing dependence of banks on major U.S. tech companies for artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, posing new risks for the industry. The excitement around AI in financial services has grown significantly, with ING's chief analytics officer mentioning the need for Big Tech companies due to the immense computing power required for AI development. Concerns were raised about potential vendor lock-in and regulatory issues as banks explore leveraging cloud computing and AI technologies provided by tech giants like Microsoft, Google, IBM, and Amazon.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
German industrial output unexpectedly dropped for a second consecutive month in April, suggesting a slow beginning to the quarter for Europe's largest economy. The 0.1% decrease in production follows a 0.4% decline the previous month, contrary to analysts' expectations of an increase. This decline comes after a report showing factory orders also unexpectedly fell by 0.2% in April. Despite an initial expansion at the beginning of 2024, Germany's economy is predicted to gradually rebound this year, with manufacturing showing slow improvement alongside growth in consumption and services. The Bundesbank forecasts a slight increase in economic output in the second quarter, supported by lower interest rates set by the European Central Bank.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
政院針對三讀通過的「國會改革法案」提出覆議，引發藍白陣營批評，但卓榮泰在立法院備詢時表示政院目前仍積極努力，強調仍有努力空間，並嗆黃國昌說他說謊。面對在野黨的強烈反擊，卓榮泰也與民進黨籍立委共襄盛舉，表示未來立法院與行政院將合作。
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
Huang Jianhao criticized the peculiar process design outlined in the constitution for appointing a new premier after a no-confidence motion. The opposition party hopes the Executive Yuan does not rush the motion and that the premier takes political responsibility for proposing the motion. The Legislative Yuan, however, may face another voting battle regarding the motion, as the ruling party calls on opposition lawmakers to support it. Despite concerns that the motion may not pass, Premier Su Zhenchang is unlikely to resign, as even if the motion fails, President Lai Ching might re-nominate Su. The situation may strain government dynamics. A Nationalist Party legislator mentioned the constitutional design being perplexing, with the president able to dissolve parliament if a motion of no-confidence is initiated by the Legislative Yuan, yet maintaining the authority to reappoint the premier post-new elections, highlighting the skewed political mechanism.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
The South African rand saw a 0.5% increase to 18.8883 per dollar following the African National Congress's announcement of forming a government of national unity after losing its parliamentary majority. While the proposal initially calmed market nerves, the rising cost of hedging against rand declines suggests lingering uncertainty. President Cyril Ramaphosa mentioned engagements with various political parties, including the Democratic Alliance and the Economic Freedom Fighters, aiming to isolate those inciting chaos. Analysts like Barclays' Michael Kafe expressed concerns over potential internal disputes and social unrest with the formation of a unity government.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
The political conflict between the ruling and opposition parties in Taiwan continues with disputes over newly proposed issues like abolishing the Examination Yuan and the Fiscal Discipline Act, following the recent passage of parliamentary reform bills. The root cause lies in the confusion of roles between the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the largest party, the Kuomintang (KMT), with the KMT mistakenly acting like the ruling party. However, both sides are perceived to be focused on political maneuvers rather than substantial policy changes, leading to a stagnant political landscape and a disconnect with the public.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
Economic Affairs Minister Kuo Chih-Hui recently proposed extending the service lives of Nuke 2 and Nuke 3 by 20 to 30 years if the law is amended, prompting criticism from KMT legislator Lai Shih-Pao for lacking a corresponding bill. DPP Legislative Yuan Caucus Secretary-General Wu Su-Yao reiterated today that the DPP's stance on realizing a non-nuclear homeland through action and goals remains unchanged, representing a consistent high-level consensus between the executive and legislative branches. Wu emphasized the importance of ensuring stable power supply before 2030, continuing the development of diverse green energy, and maintaining the goal of a non-nuclear homeland in law implementation.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
根據路透社的一項調查，由於資本支出數字的提升，預計日本經濟在1月至3月份的萎縮速度可能比最初報告的稍微緩慢一些，儘管風險繼續籠罩前景。經濟學家預期這一季度將恢復增長，受到稅收減免和工資上漲的支持，但由於日元走弱導致進口成本上升，導致消費受到壓縮，同時一些汽車製造商的中斷也可能會施壓。預計6月12日日本銀行公布的獨立數據將顯示企業物價指數，即衡量公司互相收取的商品價格，可能在5月同比上漲2.0%，環比增長0.4%。
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
A recent Associated Press analysis revealed a significant increase in the number of publicly-traded 'zombie' companies worldwide, reaching nearly 7,000, with 2,000 in the U.S. These firms are burdened with debt, struggling to pay loan interest. As about $1.1 trillion is due for repayment by zombies through the year-end, potential impacts on the economy and concerns arise. The growing number of bankruptcies and closures could affect over 130 million employees globally, highlighting the risks posed by these companies to the financial system.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
歐洲央行官員對進一步降息持謹慎態度，工資增加壓力持續，一名官員甚至提出可能不會再有進一步舉措。G7中央銀行之一的降息決定是這一行動的第二階段，讓歐洲央行對下一步舉措感到猶豫。部分官員憂慮在7月第二次降息，甚至質疑此舉是否明智。
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) reported a 30% increase in May sales to NT$229.6 billion ($7.1 billion), driven by high demand for artificial intelligence and recovery in consumer electronics markets. TSMC is benefiting from the global AI chip race, producing semiconductors for companies like Nvidia, Microsoft, and OpenAI. The company, based in Hsinchu, Taiwan, is also the exclusive manufacturer of Nvidia's advanced AI accelerators and fabricates chips for Apple and AMD.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
In the 2024 NBA Finals, Kristaps Porziņģis made a triumphant return for the Celtics, showcasing his skills and reminding Boston of what they had been lacking. Porziņģis played a crucial role in the Celtics' 107-89 victory in Game 1, with his performance being likened to the missing piece reminiscent of Bill Walton for the 1985-86 team. His presence, along with other key players like Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, positions the Celtics as a formidable force striving not just for victory, but for dominance in the championship series.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
In recent years, due to the rising travel costs in Kenting, many people prefer to travel abroad instead. As the Dragon Boat Festival consecutive holiday and the last holiday of the year approaches, many people have already planned their trips and want to relax. However, a netizen shared that when trying to invite colleagues to Kenting for the holiday, they had all already booked flights and hotels to travel to Okinawa, Japan, leaving the netizen surprised and questioning if Kenting is really outdated. This sparked discussions online comparing the preferences for overseas travel due to factors like attractions, cleanliness, and pricing.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
PEKO's Simple Life reported on June 7, 2024, about a Chongqing hostess in Taipei who operates a popular Sichuan cuisine eatery offering authentic taste, fresh ingredients, and reasonable prices, leading to a constant crowd of patrons. For group orders or private dishes, advance booking is necessary to secure a taste. Despite the modest decor, the cleanliness and delicious offerings like spicy pepper and preserved egg, steamed pork ribs, water-boiled tofu and beef, Chongqing-style chicken with taro, and watermelon ice jelly provide a delightful dining experience. The mention of Taiwan's first-generation handsome master chef Chen Hong partaking in a meal adds to the restaurant's charm.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
Grace幸福漫步2024年6月7日 上午1:32Before heading to Bangkok, I saw many people recommending the % shaped see-saw on Instagram, so I decided to include % Arabica Bangkok QSNCC in my itinerary. % Arabica is an international chain coffee shop that I've visited in Kyoto and Hong Kong, so I couldn't miss it in Thailand! Located inside the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, this % Arabica branch is distinctive and can be reached via the Blue Line metro. With its minimalistic and fresh style, % Arabica Bangkok QSNCC is a great place to enjoy coffee and take unique photos, especially with the % see-saw. Established by Japanese Toshiaki Kita in Hong Kong, % Arabica has expanded to many countries including Thailand, each with its own unique style.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
Viewers are eager to understand the ending of the French horror-action thriller film 'Under Paris' streaming on Netflix and whether Lilith the mutated shark dies. Despite the military's efforts, Lilith is alive at the end due to her mutation from exposure to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. She procreates a new species through parthenogenesis, leaving humanity facing a grim future as her offspring spread worldwide in a symbolic nod to environmental concerns.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
國民黨立委黃健豪在立法院國是論壇痛批，對於行政院提出覆議案針對「國會改革五法」，認為這是值得憲法法庭思考是否違憲的事情，並指出覆議理由中多有說謊之處，批評行政院製造假消息進行認知操作，進一步擴權。黃健豪強調希望透過法案修正，確保官員在立法院無法謊稱或逃避監督。
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
An analysis by Associated Press reveals that the number of publicly traded 'zombie' companies, burdened with excessive debt and struggling to pay interest on loans, has surged to nearly 7,000 worldwide, with 2,000 in the U.S. These companies, including familiar names like Carnival Cruise Line, JetBlue Airways, and Manchester United, are on the brink of financial collapse, exacerbated by rising borrowing costs and economic uncertainties. The potential consequences could be dire, impacting employment and economies, with warnings from experts that a wave of bankruptcies may be looming, threatening the global financial ecosystem.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
Sushi Rang is celebrating its 6th anniversary by partnering with cama café to create fruit parfait desserts and introducing limited-time dishes like Hiroshima deep-fried oysters and rich uni pasta. They offer popular items at special prices like 2 pieces of fresh salmon sushi for 50 NTD. The collaboration with cama café brings a unique 'Mango Coffee Parfait' combining mango ice, coffee ice cream, sponge cake, and more. Enjoy anniversary-exclusive dishes like luxurious salmon roe seafood, white fish, Aomori halibut, Hiroshima crispy oysters, and rich uni pasta, all with special pricing until 6/23. Don't miss the weekly promotional offers on fan-favorite items for sushi lovers!
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
Investors are analyzing U.S. credit card spending data to identify trends that could benefit specialty retailers in the summer. Consumers are selectively buying non-essential products like trendy clothing and footwear, boosting sales for brands like Birkenstock, Abercrombie and Fitch, and Vuori. On the other hand, sales of big-ticket items like electronics and homeware have declined. Retailers like Abercrombie & Fitch have seen stock increases, while companies like Home Depot have experienced decreases. Popular brands such as Hoka, On Holding, and Adidas are driving sales growth for retailers like Nordstrom and Dick's Sporting Goods, while others are adapting to attract customers. Credit card data shows increased spending on specific brands like Vuori and Skims, with a decline in sales for brands like Victoria's Secret and Under Armour, indicating that newer niche companies are gaining market share.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
On June 7, 2024, the day before the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, visitors planning to travel to Green Island and Orchid Island by ferry encountered inconvenience as the 'Shiptravel Network' booking system of various island ferry operators was hacked, causing all booking lists to disappear. Travelers were required to provide booking proof or screenshots to ensure their reservations, affecting independent travelers more significantly than group bookings. Authorities advised reconfirming reservations with travel agencies, homestays, or ferry operators before boarding due to the system failure.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
Masked men attacked KFC and other US brands in Baghdad, reflecting rising anger against the US over the war in Gaza, reportedly orchestrated by Iran-backed militias. The attacks aim to boost a boycott of American brands, provoke anti-US sentiment, and enhance the image of these militias. Protests against US-linked businesses have taken place, with Iraqi forces guarding the targeted premises. Hezbollah's spokesperson advocates a boycott of US-related entities, while other activists support boycotts against products seen as supporting Israel. The clashes underscore the longstanding rivalry between Iran and the US in Iraq, complicating Baghdad's efforts to balance relations.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
美國就業增長預計在5月份將保持溫和步伐，薪資增長預計將穩定，這將使聯邦儲備系統（Fed）維持觀望態度，但可能鼓勵市場預測中央銀行今年至少會降息一次。勞動部的就業報告預計將顯示失業率連續第28個月保持在4%以下。雖然近幾個月勞動力市場有所疲軟，但其仍相對強勁的增長速度迄今讓Fed有時間決定何時開始降息。
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
European investors are looking for stocks poised to benefit from lower borrowing costs following the European Central Bank's first interest-rate cut in nearly five years. Sectors such as utilities and small caps, as well as heavily shorted stocks, could see improvements. Small caps are expected to thrive, real estate and utilities might recover, and shorted stocks may gain traction. Additionally, European banks, while historically benefitting from rate hikes, could face profit-taking as rates decrease. Overall, the impact of the rate cuts on European equities hinges on inflation trends and economic recovery in the region.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 11 months ago
Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the US have experienced unprecedented net inflows for 18 consecutive days, pushing the cryptocurrency closer to its record high. These ETFs, including those from BlackRock Inc. and Fidelity Investments, have attracted $15.6 billion in new subscriptions, reaching a total of $62.3 billion since their January 11 launch. The surge in demand is fueled by expectations of Bitcoin surpassing its all-time high, with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) allowing spot-Bitcoin ETFs in January and showing signs of approval for Ethereum funds. The growth in digital-asset funds indicates a positive trend towards crypto adoption among institutions and intermediaries, with Bitcoin's value quadrupling since last year and trading at around $71,100.
Source: YAHOO