Following the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, global oil prices surged significantly on Monday. Brent crude futures rose 4.4% to $99.36 per barrel, while WTI crude climbed 2.6% to $99.08. Intraday volatility was more pronounced, with Brent gaining over $8 and WTI rising more than $9, reflecting market concerns about supply disruptions. The price movement continues the high volatility trend since late February.
US President Trump announced on the morning of the 13th (Eastern Time) a blockade of the Hormuz Strait targeting vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports. The US Central Command clarified that the blockade targets only ships transiting to Iranian ports, while other vessels remain free to navigate. The action follows failed negotiations between the US and Iran in Pakistan, affecting a critical global energy shipping route.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) experienced a 27% decline in daily crude oil production in March compared to February, marking the largest single-month reduction on record. The decline was primarily driven by Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which severely impacted oil production from Persian Gulf producers.
Hungary held parliamentary elections on the 12th, with incumbent Prime Minister Orban losing after 16 years in power. Amid economic stagnation, voters turned out at a record-high turnout of nearly 80 percent to support 45-year-old pro-European challenger Marki-Zay. He announced plans for major reforms expected to reshape Hungary's relations with the EU, Russia, and the United States.
US President Trump warned on Monday that any Iranian vessels approaching American maritime blockade zones will be immediately destroyed. The warning has escalated uncertainty in global shipping, with vessel owners and brokers refusing to transit the Strait of Hormuz until safety assurances are provided. Greek shipowners with four cargo vessels awaiting entry to the Persian Gulf have suspended operations pending clarification of the situation.
Prosecutors investigating a former China Times News reporter's espionage case discovered nine military and coast guard officers allegedly infiltrated by foreign forces. The case involves elite units including the Special Warfare Command and drone operations. Prosecutors allege the officers photographed classified military information and produced pro-China videos in exchange for monetary compensation. Charges will be filed under national security and secrecy laws.
Following KMT Chairman Cheng Li-wun's meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, China announced 10 Taiwan-related measures, including resuming individual tourism from Shanghai and Fujian to Taiwan. Simultaneously, Chinese state media CCTV released footage of missile exercises showcasing the Rocket Force's capabilities. The dual approach reflects China's complex Taiwan policy strategy.
Prosecutors have indicted nine current and former military personnel for accepting bribes and leaking military secrets to foreign hostile forces through online contact. The Qiaohead District Prosecutors Office also charged one individual for providing accounts to facilitate bribery payments. This marks the first national security case to be tried under the Citizen Judges Law, representing a significant precedent in Taiwan's judicial system.
The US military announced specific blockade parameters today, covering the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea east of the Strait of Hormuz. Following the blockade's implementation, vessel tracking data shows two oil tankers have reversed course near the Strait of Hormuz to assess the situation. The action poses potential impacts on global oil transportation and energy supply chains.
US President Trump announced on the morning of the 13th (Eastern Time) a blockade of the Hormuz Strait targeting vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports. The US Central Command clarified that the blockade targets only ships transiting to Iranian ports, while other vessels remain free to navigate. The action follows failed negotiations between the US and Iran in Pakistan, affecting a critical global energy shipping route.
Last week's US-Iran conflict, though temporarily halted, has disrupted Middle Eastern energy balance maintained for decades. Iran's closure of the Hormuz Strait, a historic first, traps nearly one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies in the Persian Gulf. Iran seeks to retain strait control in future peace agreements and considers collecting transit fees. Experts warn this unstable new normal sets the stage for future conflicts with profound global economic consequences.
Amid stalled US-Iran negotiations, President Trump announced the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz on the morning of the 13th. Trump subsequently stated that Iran called the US the same day, expressing its desire to reach an agreement and emphasizing Iran's urgent need for negotiations.
Hungary held parliamentary elections on the 12th, with incumbent Prime Minister Orban losing after 16 years in power. Amid economic stagnation, voters turned out at a record-high turnout of nearly 80 percent to support 45-year-old pro-European challenger Marki-Zay. He announced plans for major reforms expected to reshape Hungary's relations with the EU, Russia, and the United States.
US President Trump warned on Monday that any Iranian vessels approaching American maritime blockade zones will be immediately destroyed. The warning has escalated uncertainty in global shipping, with vessel owners and brokers refusing to transit the Strait of Hormuz until safety assurances are provided. Greek shipowners with four cargo vessels awaiting entry to the Persian Gulf have suspended operations pending clarification of the situation.
The Qiaoatou District Prosecutors Office indicted former Navy Petty Officer Chen Ruiyong and nine others for alleged infiltration by Chinese Communist Party operatives. They allegedly recruited active and retired military personnel to obtain classified military information via the internet. The defendants span Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard units, with illicit gains totaling 5 million NT dollars. This marks Taiwan's first national jury trial in a national security case.
The International Energy Agency reports that global oil demand will decline this year for the first time since the 2020 pandemic, due to Middle East conflict driving oil prices higher. The conflict has disrupted critical Strait of Hormuz shipping, causing what the IEA calls the largest supply disruption on record. Previously projected daily demand growth of 730,000 barrels has been erased, with consumption now expected to decline by 80,000 barrels daily. Last month, the IEA coordinated member nations including the US, Japan, and Germany to release 400 million barrels from emergency reserves in a record-breaking action.
UAE Global Aluminum suspended production following an attack, while US President Trump's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz disrupts shipping. These factors deepen global concerns about aluminum supply shortages, driving prices to their highest level in four years. Automotive parts and electronics manufacturers report increased production costs.
Taiwan's stock market reached a new high, breaking through 36,200 points today, driven by gains in US markets. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company's stock price hit a record 2,040 TWD, serving as the primary driver of the market surge. US President Trump's statement about Iran seeking negotiations boosted major US indices, subsequently lifting Taiwan's stock market.
The final tanker shipment to pass through the Strait of Hormuz before the conflict erupts will arrive at refineries within days. Analysts warn this marks a critical juncture, with Europe and the United States potentially facing physical oil supply shortages within weeks.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has proposed a merger with American Airlines to US government officials. The combined entity would operate over 2,000 aircraft and potentially surpass Delta Air Lines as America's largest airline. While formal deal procedures have not yet been initiated, the discussions have generated significant market attention and could reshape the US aviation industry landscape.
Bloomberg reports that United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has proposed a merger with American Airlines. The deal would represent a major consolidation in the U.S. aviation industry and is expected to face rigorous antitrust review, even under the business-friendly Trump administration.
Following the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, global oil prices surged significantly on Monday. Brent crude futures rose 4.4% to $99.36 per barrel, while WTI crude climbed 2.6% to $99.08. Intraday volatility was more pronounced, with Brent gaining over $8 and WTI rising more than $9, reflecting market concerns about supply disruptions. The price movement continues the high volatility trend since late February.
US enforcement of Iran port controls raises concerns about global crude oil supply constraints, driving international oil prices higher. West Texas Intermediate crude oil for May delivery on the New York Mercantile Exchange rose $2.51, or 2.6%. However, indications that ceasefire negotiations may continue have somewhat limited the price gains.
The Strait of Hormuz handles approximately 20% of global crude oil trade and one-third of international fertilizer commerce. Modern agriculture heavily depends on fertilizer supply, with corn, wheat, and rice providing over half of global dietary calories. These crops rely on nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium nutrients. A blockade would disrupt fertilizer shipments, threatening global food security and price stability.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) experienced a 27% decline in daily crude oil production in March compared to February, marking the largest single-month reduction on record. The decline was primarily driven by Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which severely impacted oil production from Persian Gulf producers.
Amazon announced its agreement to acquire satellite communications company Globalstar at $90 per share. Shareholders can choose cash, stock, or exchange for 0.32 Amazon shares, with a maximum value of $90 per share. The transaction is expected to close in 2027 and represents a significant step in Amazon's development of its low-orbit satellite network, Amazon Leo, targeting a constellation of over 7,700 satellites to enhance global internet coverage.
Stanford University's Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence Institute released the 2026 AI Index Report, revealing that the performance gap between US and Chinese AI models has narrowed to just 2.7%. The report highlights accelerating global AI development while warning that software developer job openings for ages 22-25 declined 20% over the past year, illustrating the tension between technological advancement and employment impacts.
Taiwan's National Science and Technology Council established the National Intelligent Robotics Research Center in Tainan's Shaolun Smart Green Energy Science City, marking a new national-level phase for Taiwan's robotics industry. The formation of a robotics cluster across Shaolun, Liuchia, and Liuying is expected to attract talent and create employment opportunities, positively impacting regional real estate demand and development projects.
Lumentum, a leading US optoelectronics supplier, announced that strong AI-driven demand from major US hyperscale data center operators has resulted in orders extending through 2028. The company plans to reconfigure its production lines to increase manufacturing capacity and meet surging demand for optical components. This reflects sustained strong demand for optoelectronic products driven by AI infrastructure development.
According to sources, Amazon has entered deep negotiations to acquire satellite operator Globalstar. The deal would help Amazon accelerate its efforts to establish its own satellite business operations. This transaction is expected to strengthen Amazon's position in the space communications market and advance its satellite communications strategy.
Credo Technology, a data center high-speed interconnect solutions provider, announced the acquisition of DustPhotonics, a silicon photonics integrated circuit manufacturer. The acquisition aims to strengthen Credo's optical transceiver technology capabilities and expand its product portfolio for data center interconnect solutions to meet growing high-speed data transmission demands.
Applied Materials recently unveiled two chipmaking systems designed to manufacture the smallest feature structures in the world's most advanced logic chips. These technologies employ atomic-level precision control to help chipmakers enter the angstrom era and meet the demands of sub-2nm processes.
Stanford University released its ninth annual AI Index report on April 13, comprising 423 pages. The report indicates that US-China AI competition is entering a new phase, with significantly reduced performance gaps between the two nations' models. High-end model development remains highly competitive between both countries. The comprehensive report analyzes global AI development trends from multiple dimensions, providing crucial reference data for the industry.
As AI application demand surges, computing capacity has become a critical bottleneck. Developers face insufficient computational resources, limiting large language model performance. Major tech companies are responding to supply pressures by implementing rate limiting and price increases, presenting challenges to AI industry development.
European automotive manufacturers are investing in range-extended electric vehicles (REEV) equipped with small engines to extend driving range, positioning this technology as a competitive response to Chinese EV makers. This strategy also helps preserve Europe's existing supply chain infrastructure while maintaining industrial advantages during the transition to electrification.
The GlassWorm worm, first disclosed in October last year, continues to evolve as attackers shift tactics. Initially targeting extensions on Open VSX and Visual Studio Code marketplaces, the malware subsequently spread to GitHub, NPM, and Chrome extension stores. Recent findings reveal attackers are now targeting various integrated development environment (IDE) tools used by developers, significantly expanding the threat scope.
Booking.com notified users of a data breach last week involving unauthorized access to booking information. The compromised data includes names, email addresses, residential addresses, phone numbers, and information shared with accommodation providers. The company has updated reservation PIN codes to enhance security and notified affected users via email about the incident.
Google Chrome discontinued default trust for TLS website certificates issued by Chunghwa Telecom. The Control Yuan stated that while the Digital Development Ministry took remedial action, improvements are needed in risk awareness, regulatory intensity, and system design. Chunghwa Telecom must also enhance certificate management and compliance procedures.
Threat intelligence firm Censys reports that hackers are targeting exposed ComfyUI AI image generation platforms using Python scanning tools to identify vulnerable instances in public clouds. Upon successful compromise, attackers convert infected hosts into botnets for cryptocurrency mining and illegal proxy server operations to generate illicit profits.
OpenAI confirmed yesterday that it was affected by the NPM package Axios supply chain attack, but stated that no customer data, internal systems, or intellectual property were compromised. The company has updated its macOS credentials and is urging Mac users to upgrade to the latest version of the app before May 8 to ensure security.
Five Happiness Travel suffered a cyberattack in early 2026, exposing approximately 200,000 customer passport images and internal data online. Taiwan's Tourism Administration imposed a 1 million NT dollar fine after determining the incident was severe. Cybersecurity experts recommend companies implement multi-factor authentication including biometric verification and virtual key generation to strengthen customer data protection.
A large-scale hacking campaign in the Middle East and North Africa region has revealed the existence of hacking-for-hire services rather than isolated threat actors. The operations, allegedly commissioned by government entities, targeted multiple platforms including Apple's iCloud, the Signal messaging app, and Android devices, highlighting the emergence of a new cyber threat landscape.
The National Immigration Agency has clarified that forged documents circulating on social media claiming to be official notices for lifting entry restrictions are fraudulent. The agency emphasized that the document is not issued by the government and constitutes impersonation of a government agency. Officials remind the public that legitimate immigration procedures require no additional fees and urge caution against scams.
As generative AI technology advances, fraud tactics have significantly escalated, threatening both financial security and personal data privacy. Experts warn that scammers are reusing victims' personal information to target additional victims across multiple channels. The continuous recycling of compromised data creates cascading harm, making prevention increasingly difficult for the public.
As Taiwan faces an aging population, dementia has become a significant public health concern. Neurologists emphasize the strong connection between hypertension, cognitive decline, and dementia. Inadequate treatment of high blood pressure during middle age accelerates brain deterioration. Medical experts stress that proper blood pressure management is crucial for protecting cognitive function and preventing dementia development.
Taiwanese author Long Yingtai's acclaimed work 'Big River, Big Sea 1949' has been published in simplified Chinese overseas, 17 years after its original release. The book remains banned in mainland China. Long hopes to reach simplified Chinese readers and describes the region as 'the main battlefield of widespread suffering back then,' aiming to document history through literature.
US President Trump announced on the morning of the 13th (Eastern Time) a blockade of the Hormuz Strait targeting vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports. The US Central Command clarified that the blockade targets only ships transiting to Iranian ports, while other vessels remain free to navigate. The action follows failed negotiations between the US and Iran in Pakistan, affecting a critical global energy shipping route.
President Trump ordered the US military to blockade Iranian ports at the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to completely ban Iran's crude oil exports. The measure is expected to severely damage Iran's economy and trigger political crisis. However, elevated oil prices also pressure the Trump administration, creating a mutually constraining situation between the two nations.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) experienced a 27% decline in daily crude oil production in March compared to February, marking the largest single-month reduction on record. The decline was primarily driven by Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which severely impacted oil production from Persian Gulf producers.
Amid stalled US-Iran negotiations, President Trump announced the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz on the morning of the 13th. Trump subsequently stated that Iran called the US the same day, expressing its desire to reach an agreement and emphasizing Iran's urgent need for negotiations.
Hungary held parliamentary elections on the 12th, with incumbent Prime Minister Orban losing after 16 years in power. Amid economic stagnation, voters turned out at a record-high turnout of nearly 80 percent to support 45-year-old pro-European challenger Marki-Zay. He announced plans for major reforms expected to reshape Hungary's relations with the EU, Russia, and the United States.
Following the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, global oil prices surged significantly on Monday. Brent crude futures rose 4.4% to $99.36 per barrel, while WTI crude climbed 2.6% to $99.08. Intraday volatility was more pronounced, with Brent gaining over $8 and WTI rising more than $9, reflecting market concerns about supply disruptions. The price movement continues the high volatility trend since late February.
Last week's US-Iran conflict, though temporarily halted, has disrupted Middle Eastern energy balance maintained for decades. Iran's closure of the Hormuz Strait, a historic first, traps nearly one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies in the Persian Gulf. Iran seeks to retain strait control in future peace agreements and considers collecting transit fees. Experts warn this unstable new normal sets the stage for future conflicts with profound global economic consequences.
US President Trump warned on Monday that any Iranian vessels approaching American maritime blockade zones will be immediately destroyed. The warning has escalated uncertainty in global shipping, with vessel owners and brokers refusing to transit the Strait of Hormuz until safety assurances are provided. Greek shipowners with four cargo vessels awaiting entry to the Persian Gulf have suspended operations pending clarification of the situation.
The final tanker shipment to pass through the Strait of Hormuz before the conflict erupts will arrive at refineries within days. Analysts warn this marks a critical juncture, with Europe and the United States potentially facing physical oil supply shortages within weeks.
The US military announced specific blockade parameters today, covering the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea east of the Strait of Hormuz. Following the blockade's implementation, vessel tracking data shows two oil tankers have reversed course near the Strait of Hormuz to assess the situation. The action poses potential impacts on global oil transportation and energy supply chains.
The Qiaoatou District Prosecutors Office indicted former Navy Petty Officer Chen Ruiyong and nine others for alleged infiltration by Chinese Communist Party operatives. They allegedly recruited active and retired military personnel to obtain classified military information via the internet. The defendants span Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard units, with illicit gains totaling 5 million NT dollars. This marks Taiwan's first national jury trial in a national security case.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has proposed a merger with American Airlines to US government officials. The combined entity would operate over 2,000 aircraft and potentially surpass Delta Air Lines as America's largest airline. While formal deal procedures have not yet been initiated, the discussions have generated significant market attention and could reshape the US aviation industry landscape.
Prosecutors have indicted nine current and former military personnel for accepting bribes and leaking military secrets to foreign hostile forces through online contact. The Qiaohead District Prosecutors Office also charged one individual for providing accounts to facilitate bribery payments. This marks the first national security case to be tried under the Citizen Judges Law, representing a significant precedent in Taiwan's judicial system.
Following KMT Chairman Cheng Li-wun's meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, China announced 10 Taiwan-related measures, including resuming individual tourism from Shanghai and Fujian to Taiwan. Simultaneously, Chinese state media CCTV released footage of missile exercises showcasing the Rocket Force's capabilities. The dual approach reflects China's complex Taiwan policy strategy.
The International Energy Agency reports that global oil demand will decline this year for the first time since the 2020 pandemic, due to Middle East conflict driving oil prices higher. The conflict has disrupted critical Strait of Hormuz shipping, causing what the IEA calls the largest supply disruption on record. Previously projected daily demand growth of 730,000 barrels has been erased, with consumption now expected to decline by 80,000 barrels daily. Last month, the IEA coordinated member nations including the US, Japan, and Germany to release 400 million barrels from emergency reserves in a record-breaking action.
Two fires broke out in Kaohsiung's Xinxing and Qianzhen districts early on the 14th, with suspected causes related to air conditioning equipment. As temperatures rise to 30°C, many households are turning on their air conditioners. HVAC professionals advise checking for unusual sounds or odors when starting units after months of disuse. Air conditioners over 10 years old should be professionally cleaned and inspected before use to ensure electrical safety.
A barbecue rice restaurant in Neili, Taoyuan has triggered a food poisoning outbreak affecting 61 people. Taoyuan Health Bureau reports all victims experienced gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming meals at the establishment. The restaurant owner apologized and suspects potato salad as the potential cause, pending laboratory confirmation of the exact source.
China Airlines flight CI058 collided with a jet bridge on June 14th during ground operations at Melbourne Airport, causing severe damage to the aircraft's left forward passenger door. The flight, originally scheduled to depart for Taipei Taoyuan International Airport, was cancelled following the incident. The cause of the collision is under investigation.