Weekly Roundup: Google's Quantum Leap, Taiwan's Military Alert Amid China's Aggression, and Beijing's Ban on U.S. Goods

Dec 13, 2024

Tech Spotlight

Taiwan developer Gametropy's app, "Do You Really Want to Know 2," won an Apple App Store Award for addressing HIV stigma and providing educational resources. Apple praised the app for its user experience and innovation among 45 finalists. Taiwan News
China is investigating Nvidia for potential antitrust violations related to its 2019 acquisition of Mellanox Technologies. This probe follows U.S. export restrictions on China's semiconductor industry, reflecting escalating tensions between the U.S. and China in the chip sector. Taiwan News
Google's new quantum chip, Willow, is seen as a potential threat to Bitcoin and Nvidia by enabling faster computations that could compromise current encryption methods. Experts suggest increased investment in quantum technology to address security concerns in various industries, including companies like BTQ, which focuses on protecting sensitive data. Yahoo! Finance

Taiwan has placed its military on high alert as Chinese coast guard vessels are spotted near its waters. Beijing has reserved airspace, raising concerns of a potential military exercise following Taiwanese President William Lai's recent visits to Pacific allies. Taipei Times
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense tracked 34 Chinese military aircraft and 16 ships within a 24-hour period. This month, Taiwan has monitored Chinese military movements 237 times for aircraft and 145 times for ships, amid heightened military exercises. Taiwan News
The US House has passed a defense bill providing NT$9.7 billion in military aid to Taiwan, establishing the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative. This funding will enhance Taiwan's military capabilities and includes provisions for trauma care and international sanctions coordination against China. Taiwan News

Taiwan's listed and OTC companies saw a record net increase of NT$919.2 billion (US$28.22 billion) in overseas investments during the first nine months of 2024, driven by capital needs in the semiconductor sector, despite reduced investments in China. Focus Taiwan
Tesla's stock reached an all-time high, rising 69% since Donald Trump's election victory. The increase is attributed to strong sales in China and optimism about regulatory approvals for Tesla's full self-driving features under the new administration. Yahoo! Finance
Taiwan's GDP is expected to grow steadily next year, driven by strong global demand for AI-related electronics. Predictions range from 2.8% to 3.16% growth, despite concerns over potential US tariffs and geopolitical tensions impacting the economy. Taipei Times

China has implemented a ban on selling certain dual-use goods to the U.S., extending its legal jurisdiction to include companies outside China. This move aims to counter U.S. sanctions and applies to materials like gallium and germanium. Taiwan Times
President-elect Donald Trump plans over 25 executive orders for his first day in office on January 20, 2025, aiming to reshape U.S. policies on immigration and energy, including actions to enhance border security and increase energy production. Taiwan News
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol faces impeachment calls from his own party amid backlash over a failed martial law declaration. His party leader suggested voting for impeachment, while Yoon vowed to fight against the charges and maintain his presidency. Taiwan News

Taiwan's stock market opened higher, gaining 147.01 points to reach 23,050.64 on Thursday. Trading volume was NT$5 billion (US$155.48 million), reflecting positive investor sentiment as the market resumes activity. Focus Taiwan
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is projected to grow its revenue by 25% next year, reaching a record high, driven by strong demand in AI and crypto mining. TSMC's market share in the foundry sector is expected to rise to 67%. Taipei Times
Taiwan's average monthly wage rose by 2.63% to NT$46,455 in October, while total wages, including bonuses, increased by 3.41% to NT$53,227. This growth was supported by strong demand in the AI and electronic component sectors. Taipei Times