EZ News

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 54-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 31,584 on turnover of 11-billion N-T. The market hit yet another new closing high as Monday on the back of continuing strong shows by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. T-S-M-C saw its share price climb to a record high of 1,780 N-T in intraday trading, before closing 1.15-per cent higher at 1,760 N-T. Defense Minister briefs lawmakers on weapons procurement plans Defense Minister Wellington Koo has briefed members of the Legislative Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee on weapons systems the military hopes to procure under the 1.25-trillion N-T special defense budget. According to Koo, the defense ministry is seeking to purchase more than 200,000 U-A-Vs, as well as precision artillery (精準火炮), long-range missiles, air defense missiles and anti-tank missiles Koo told lawmakers during the closed-door session that he will be given a detailed explanation in regards the weapons systems being eyed by the defense ministry, when the special defense budget has been referred to committee review. Lows of 8-degree as cold air mass moves in And, The Central Weather Administration says, a strong continental cold air mass will send temperatures drop to as low as 8-degrees in some areas this week. The cold front will move south from this afternoon and strengthen from tomorrow through Thursday. Lows tomorrow and Thursday in the north are forecast to fall to between 12 and 13 degrees. While the mercury could drop to between 13 and 14 degrees overnight in the center and south. The cold air mass is expected to weaken starting Saturday - when daytime temperatures will rebound (反彈). Iran Protests Leave Over 4000 Dead Activists say the bloody crackdown on demonstrators taking part in nationwide protests in Iran killed at least 4,029 people. The Human Rights Activists News Agency offered the toll today, saying more than 26-thousand people have been detained in the crackdown. It said of the dead, over 3-thousand-700 were demonstrators, and nearly 30 were children. It fears many more may have been killed. The agency has been accurate (準確的) in previous unrest in Iran and relies on a network of activists on the ground to confirm each death. This comes as a U.S. aircraft carrier, which days earlier had been in the South China Sea, passed Singapore overnight to enter the Strait of Malacca. This puts it on a route that could bring it to the Middle East. US FBI asking agents to volunteer for Minnesota deployment: reports The FBI is reportedly asking agents to volunteer for a deployment to Minnesota, as clashes between anti-ICE protestors and federal agents intensify. The Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security have beefed up (加強) their presence in Minneapolis after an immigration officer shot and killed Renee Good - a US citizen and mother of three - in her car two weeks ago. Toni Waterman has the story. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Magnitude 4.3 quake rattles mountainous areas of south and center TVGH suspends 3 doctors after video shows vendor taking part in surgery Europe won't be blackmailed High-speed train derails in southern Spain Suspected gang members in Guatemala's capital kill seven police officers -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 34-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 30,845 on turnover of $8-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Thursday as investors awaited the outcome of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing's investor conference - which began after the trading day ended. Danjiang Bridge to host opening events in both April and May Events are slated to take place to mark the completion of the Danjiang Bridge in the lead-up to its officially opening on May 12. Both the New Taipei City Government and the Highway Bureau will be hosting events from between April 25 and May 9. The bridge will be open to the public to walk across on April 25 and the Highway Bureau will be holding a parade on the bridge the following day featuring performances by musical groups. A concert will also be taking place in May 2 and the bridge will be open for a public picnic day on May 3. Construction of the 920-meter-long bridge is due to be completed in April and when completed, the Danjiang Bridge will become the longest asymmetric (不對稱的) single-tower cable-stayed bridge in the world. Officials say the bridge will cut the travel time between Tamsui and Bali by about 25-minutes. Trump threatens to send troops to Minnesota as tensions rise following second ICE shooting US president Donald Trump has threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy troops to Minnesota in response to rising tensions between protesters and federal agents. His warning came just hours after a man was shot and wounded (受傷的) by an immigration officer who had been attacked with a shovel and broom handle in Minneapolis. Kate fisher reports from Washington UN SecretaryGeneral Criticizes Violations of Intl Law and Concentration of Wealth The United Nations chief is lashing out at countries that violate international law and calling the concentration of power and wealth by the world’s richest 1% “morally indefensible.” Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spoke to the U.N. General Assembly on Thursday at the start of his final year at the helm (領導地位) of the United Nations. He said the U.N.'s 193 member nations are facing “a world marked by self-defeating geopolitical divides, brazen violations of international law, and wholesale cuts in development and humanitarian aid.” He said all these forces are shaking the foundations of global cooperation at a time when it is needed most. Guterres warned of the dangers of a concentration of power and wealth in the world's richest 1%, who hold 43% of global financial assets. He also criticized countries that don’t pay their U.N. dues on time — another jab at the Trump administration, which did not pay its mandatory dues to the U.N.’s budgets in 2025. Wikipedia Partners with AI Companies Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia written by volunteers, is embracing artificial intelligence to mark its 25th anniversary. The site has signed up new AI partners, including Meta and Microsoft, alongside existing ones with companies like Google. These companies are paying to access Wikipedia content, supporting its nonprofit mission. Founder Jimmy Wales welcomes AI training on Wikipedia data, emphasizing (強調) its human-curated nature. The Wikimedia Foundation urges AI developers to pay for access, as bots heavily tax (使負重擔) its servers. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 194-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 30,746 on turnover of 11.3-billion N-T. The market gained ground again on Wednesday as buying rotated to select tech stocks that had been lagging behind semiconductor shares in recent sessions. Presidential impeachment hearings begin Lawmakers have begin public hearings to discuss impeaching President Lai Ching-te. The first hearing took place yesterday and a second hearing is scheduled for today as part of the legislature's impeachment review process. The Committee of the Whole Yuan will then hold formal (正式的) review meetings on January 21 and 22. The lead sponsors will use those meetings to explain the grounds for impeachment and Lai will be invited to give a 15-minute statement followed by questioning by lawmakers. A second review meeting is scheduled for May, after which the impeachment case will be put to a vote in the Legislative Yuan on May 19. The impeachment needs a two-thirds majority of lawmakers for it to pass. Taiwan passport rises three spots in global ranking Taiwan's passport has risen three place in the latest Henley Passport Index to move up to 33rd spot. The rise means it returned to the same place it was in the rankings in January of last year. The index rank passports by the number of destinations its holder can travel to without a visa. The latest survey shows that Taiwan passport holders can travel to 139 countries and territories without a visa. The Singaporean passport was ranked (排名) the most powerful with visa-free access to 192 destinations out of a total of 227. US to freeze visa processing for 75 countries The Trump Administration says it will indefinitely halt visa processing for immigrants from 75 countries, including Brazil, Russia and Iran. The State Department says this latest restriction - which kicks in next week - is aimed at people trying to quote .. "extract (強索) wealth from the American people." Toni Waterman has more from DC Canada BC Ends Experiment Decriminalizing Limited Drug Possession Canada’s Pacific coast province of British Columbia is ending its three-year experiment in decriminalizing possession (擁有) of small amounts of drugs. British Columbia's health minister says the province is not seeking an extension (延伸) of its agreement with Canada’s federal health agency that allowed the decriminalization of small amounts of drugs for personal possession. The three-year pilot project, slated to end Jan. 31st, initially allowed adults to possess up to 2.5 grams cumulatively of opioids, crack and powdered cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA. But in 2024, the exemption was amended to restrict such possession to private homes and places where homeless people are legally sheltering, as well as designated health-care clinics and overdose prevention, drug checking and supervised consumption sites. The minister says the goal was to make it easier for people o come forward and seek help, but it "hasn't delivered the results" officials hoped for. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

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 30,742 on turnover of 7.5-billion N-T. The market closed at yet another new high on Tuesday as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing extended its momentum from a session earlier amid optimism over global demand for A-I applications. Cabinet refusing to comment on reports of US tariff deal The Cabinet is refusing to comment on reports that Taiwan and the U-S are close to completing a trade deal. Reports have been suggesting the deal will reduce the U-S tariff rate on Taiwan products will from 20 to 15-per cent, and commit Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing to invest significantly more in the U-S. Cabinet spokeswoman Michelle Lee says Taiwan and the U-S have already reached "broad consensus (共識)" on related issues, and are currently discussing the timing of a wrap-up meeting. And according to Lee, any confirmed arrangements will be announced publicly. T-S-M-C has not commented on the report, but is expected to address the issue at its investor conference tomorrow. Former Legislative Speaker Su Jia-chyuan named SEF chairman Former Legislative Speaker Su Jia-chyuan has been appointed as chairman of the Straits Exchange Foundation. Su had long been widely tipped for the post after his predecessor, Frank Wu, announced his resignation on December 18. According to Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo, President Lai Ching-te invited Su to take the post, citing his "extensive (全面的) political experience and successful track record in international exchanges." Kuo says Lai is expressing his hope that Su will strengthen the Straits Exchange Foundation's operations and help promote "positive and healthy" cross-strait exchanges. Su most recently served as chairman of the Taiwan-Japan Relations Association for more than three years. Iran Protest Death Toll Surpasses 2Thousand Activists say the death toll from nationwide protests in Iran has surpassed 2,000 people. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, which has been accurate (準確的) in previous unrest in recent years, gave the latest toll. It says most of the dead over more than two weeks of protests were protesters and 135 were government-affiliated. With the internet down in Iran, gauging the demonstrations from abroad is difficult. The demonstrations began a little over two weeks ago in anger over Iran’s ailing economy and theocracy, particularly the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Human Rights Activists News Agency warns that the death toll will rise. US Justice Department Prosecutors Resign Over Minnesota ICE Shooting Investigation From the US…. Justice Department prosecutors are resigning amid turmoil (動盪) over Minnesota ICE shooting investigation AP correspondent Ed Donahue reports. France Le Pen in Court to Appeal Embezzlement Conviction French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has returned to court to appeal an embezzlement (挪用公款) conviction that risks affecting her 2027 presidential ambitions. She denies any wrongdoing. She was found guilty in March of misusing European Parliament funds and sentenced to a five-year ban from holding office, among other penalties. The appeal trial involving Le Pen and 10 others opened on Tuesday and is set to last five weeks. The verdict is expected possibly before summer. Le Pen argues the funds were used appropriately (適當地). The case weighs heavily on her political future, as she has worked to bring the far right into France’s mainstream politics. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 63-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 30,630 on turnover of 8.2-billion N-T. The market closed higher yesterday as buying was sparked by gains posted on Wall Street at the end of last week. However, the main board declined from the day's high of 30,681 after profit-taking set-in late in the session, as investors turned cautious ahead of the anticipated U-S Supreme Court ruling later this week on Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs. Taiwan F-16s return to the sky after no-flight order lifted The Air Force says its fleet of F-16s jet fighters have now resumed regular training operations following safety checks. The fleet was grounded in response to the disappearance of an F-16V and its pilot going missing in waters off the east coast last Tuesday. According to the Air Force, all of its F-16s passed inspections, with pilots and ground crews completing simulation (模擬) and maintenance training, respectively. The Air Force also released photos of a group of four F-16Vs making preparations for takeoff, with one piloted by Maj. Gen. Hu Chung-hua -- the chief of the Air Force's 5th Tactical Mixed Wing based in eastern Hualien County. Taipei to launch 'smoke-free city' plan this year Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an says his administration is looking at various options to limit smoking in public places and some version of the policy is likely to be implemented this year. According to Chiang, a "Taipei smoke-free city" plan is expected to be launched by the end of this year. Chiang says city officials are studying the establishment of designated (指定的) smoking areas in Tokyo, which has cut down on secondhand smoke and cigarette litter in the Japanese capital. The Taipei mayor also said that it's very possible the city will make reference to examples abroad, such as using designated smoking areas or booths to improve the quality of public spaces. US Trump Administration Sends Hundreds More Agents to Minneapolis Hundreds more federal agents are being deployed (部署) to Minneapolis by the Trump administration. It comes amid protests after a woman was shot and killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in the city. Kate Fisher reports from Washington Iran Protest Death Toll Rises Activists say the death toll from Iran’s nationwide protests has reached at least 646 people with the number expected to rise further. The toll as of Tuesday comes from the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, which has been accurate (準確) throughout multiple years of demonstrations. According to the Associated Press, the agency relies on a network of activists inside Iran that confirms all reported fatalities. Iran’s government has not provided casualty figures for the demonstrations, as all communications remain blocked in the country. Pope Meets with Venezuela Opposition Leader Machado Pope Leo XIV has met with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado at the Vatican. During Monday's meeting, which was not previously announced, the Venezuelan leader asked the pope to intercede (調解) for the release of hundreds of political prisoners held in Venezuela and for a swift transition to democracy. Machado is touring Europe and the United States after escaping Venezuela in early 2025. The pope called for Venezuela to remain independent and urges the protection of human rights following the capture (捕拿) of former President Nicolas Maduro by U.S. forces. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 183-points this morning from Friday's close, at 30,472 on turnover of 10.8-billion N-T. The market closed lower on Friday, but remained above the 30,000 point mark on the back of investor optimism that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing would report strong sales for 2025 after the main board closed. Lai announces approval of NT$2.94 billion 'smart health' subsidies President Lai Ching-te says his administration has approved 197 subsidy programs worth about 2.94-billion N-T under a plan to encourage medical institutions to adopt 'smart health care' technologies. The subsidy programs are part of the five-year 48.9-billion N-T Healthy Taiwan Cultivation Plan, which the government launched last year. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Nobel Health Care Forum in Taipei, Lai said the subsidy programs are designed to leverage (利用，發揮（優勢）) the advantages of smart health care to strengthen medical services. According to Lai, although average life expectancy in Taiwan is currently above 80, people spend an average of 8.4 years in poor healthand that means "about 10-per cent of the average lifespan is unhealthy," with some people bedridden, using wheelchairs or needing daily care. HPA to publish new dietary guidelines in Q2 2026 Health Minister Shih Chung-liang says the Health Promotion Administration will issue new daily dietary guidelines in the second quarter of this year. It will be the first such update since 2018. A draft of the new guidelines was completed late last year. According to Shih, eggs will be promoted more than in the past, given the growing body of research (大量的研究成果) showing they are an excellent source of nutrition. And while earlier guidelines only recommended skim or low-fat milk, the updated guidelines recognize that whole milk contains important nutrients, as long as it is consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. US Minnesota More Immigration Arrests Minnesota braces for what's next amid (…之中) more protests and immirgration arrests AP's Lisa Dwyer reports Italy Olympic Venue Guard Death Authorities have confirmed the death of a guard at construction site near a 2026 Winter Olympic venue in the mountain resort of Cortina d'Ampezzo. The death occurred during a frigid overnight shift, when temperatures plunged to minus 12 degrees Celsius. Italy’s infrastructure minister has called for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the 55-year-old worker’s death. Italian media reported that the death happened on Jan. 8, outside Cortina’s ice arena, and Milan Cortina organizers said that the worker died of a heart attack. City officials expressed deep sadness and concern (憂慮) over the incident. The Milan Cortina Winter Olympics are scheduled for Feb. 6-22. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 10-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 30,370 on turnover of $6.5-billion N-T. FDA announces recall of Nestle formula powder over potential contamination The Food and Drug Administration says Nestle has preemptively recalled 83,496 cans of baby formula powder over potential contamination (污染) of the toxin cereulide. The move comes amid a global recall of the food company's baby formula products earlier this week. According to the F-D-A, Nestle Taiwan self-reported that two batches of its products sold in Taiwan may have used potentially contaminated ingredients. Those products are batches (批次) of it Illuma Infant Growth Formula and Illuma Toddler Growth Formula. Nestle Taiwan says it initiated voluntary recalls as a precaution to safeguard consumer health and safety. The company says it has lso set up a dedicated hotline to handle returns and exchanges. The F-D-A is urged consumers who have purchased the products to stop consumption and return the product. MOEA updates guidelines for foreign students interning in Taiwan The Ministry of Economic Affairs has updated guidelines to protect the rights of foreign students interning in Taiwan. The updated Guidelines Governing the Application of Foreign Students to the ROC in the Capacity of Interns in Enterprises and Organizations includes clearer rules on student eligibility, internship stipends and working hours. Under the revised rules, students must be enrolled (已註冊) at overseas universities officially listed by the Ministry of Education, the and the economic ministry's Department of Investment Review. Students must have completed at least one semester of study before coming to Taiwan and be of an age appropriate for their program. They must also be studying a field related to their internship and have basic Chinese or English communication skills to ensure the quality and effectiveness of the internship. US Withdraws from dozens of international bodies and organisations The United States is withdrawing from dozens of international organizations and bodies, many of which are associated with the United Nations, in the latest sign of Washington stepping back from multilateralism (多邊主義). Mitch McCann reports: Philippines Garbage Mound Collapse Leaves Dead and Missing A huge mound of garbage has collapsed in a waste segregation facility in a central Philippine city, killing one person and leaving at least 27 others missing. Police say that firefighters and disaster-mitigation personnel retrieved eight people, including workers at the facility, who were trapped (被困) Thursday afternoon in the avalanche of trash and debris in the village of Binaliw in Cebu city. Local officials say one of those rescued, a female worker at the landfill, died while being brought to a hospital. Authorities and officials at the waste management facility, which has 110 employees, are to hold an emergency meeting today UN Forecasts Global Growth Slightly Lower This Year The United Nations is forecasting that the global economy will grow by 2.7% this year. That's slightly lower than last year’s estimate, citing the impact of higher U.S. tariffs, economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions. U.N. economists predict that growth will edge up to 2.9% in 2027. That’s still well below the average 3.2% growth between 2010 and 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic hurt economies around the globe. The U.N. economists say there was “unexpected resilience" to sharp increases in U.S. tariffs last year. They are pointing to solid consumer spending and easing inflation, which helped sustain (維持) growth.. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 104-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 30,330 on turnover of 12-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Wednesday, as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing pulled back on profit taking after hitting a record closing level a session earlier - but the main board remained above the 30,000 point mark. Air Force to call on US to speed-up collision-avoidance system work following F-16V incident The Air Force is urging the U-S to expedite work to install automatic ground collision avoidance systems on its F-16V fighter jets and hopes the process (過程) can be completed sooner than initially planned. It comes after an F-16V jet went missing off of Hualien on Tuesday evening. Authorities are still searching for the missing aircraft and its pilot. The incident has led to concerns about the speed in which automatic ground collision avoidance systems are being installed on Taiwan's F-16Vs. The project was initially slated for completion in 2028. However, the Air Force says it now hopes it can completed by the end of this year. Subject: E*MOEA gives final approval for Nvidia's Taipei headquarters Return to Table of contents The Taipei City Government says the Ministry of Economic Affairs has given its final approval for Nvidia to build its overseas headquarters at the Beitou-Shilin Technology Park. Nvidia is now set to submit its investment proposal to the city government later this month. Nvidia C-E-O Jensen Huang is expected to visit Taiwan later this month to attend (出席) the signing ceremony. The Nvidia headquarters will be designed by local architect Kris Yao. Yao's previous projects include the China Steel Corporation Headquarters in Kaohsiung and the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum in Chiayi. WH: US has started marketing Venezualan oil on the global marketplace The White House says the US has already started marketing Venezuelan oil in the global marketplace. It comes as President Trump says Venezuela has agreed to make up to 50 million barrels of crude (原油) available to the US. Jagruti Dave has more from Washington Canada PM to Visit China Next Week Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit China next week where he will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping as Canada looks to reduce its reliance (依賴) on the United States. The visit, announced on Wednesday, is the first to China by a Canadian prime minister in more than eight years. Xi invited Carney to China when they met during an Asia-Pacific summit last fall and it comes as the two countries move to restore stronger ties after years of tensions. Carney will travel to China from Jan. 13 to 17. EU Snow and Ice Hampering Travel Snow and ice are hampering travel in parts of Europe as flights have been grounded and roads clogged (堵塞). More than 1,000 passengers spent the night at Amsterdam's airport as staff worked to clear snow from runways. At least 800 flights were canceled at the airport on Wednesday. France's weather service has issued alerts for snow and black ice. People were urged to work from home. Swedish and Finnish cities also faced disruptions with trams and buses halted. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 163-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 30,412 on turnover of 23-billion N-T. The market closed above the 30,000 point mark once again on Tuesday, as buying was further boosted by investor optimism over Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing's sales amid the current A-I boom. Analysts say investors are betting that T-S-M-C will deliver positive leads (商機線索) at its investor conference next Thursday. NSB says Beijing paired Taiwan drills with cyberattacks and cognitive warfare The National Security Bureau says Beijing paired military drills against Taiwan with information operations and cyberattacks from between December 29 and January 2. According to the bureau, the move resulted in the spreading of more than 19,000 "controversial" messages and the launch of millions of hacking intrusions (入侵). In a report submitted to the Legislative Yuan, the N-S-B says the online activity involved 799 abnormal accounts and focused on amplifying skepticism about the U-S, Taiwan's military and President Lai Ching-te, referring to concerns about Taiwan's ability to defend itself. CDC warns that influenza epidemic to hit late January and peak over Lunar New Year The Centers for Disease Control says it expects to see a rise in flu cases in the later this month and a further increase around the Lunar New Year holiday period. According to the C-D-C, a total of 82,161 people sought medical treatment for flu-like illness from the week of December 28 to January 3 - and that level remains about the same as the previous week. The C-D-C is projecting that Taiwan will again enter a flu epidemic ( 流行病) period in the latter half of this month, following a previous period from late September to late November this winter and it's likely to peak around the nine-day Lunar New Year holiday, which begins on February 14. UN Human Rights Office Expresses Renewed Concern Over U.S. Actions in Venezuela The UN Human Rights office says it's concerned America's military action in Venezuela is going to make the situation (情況) in the country even worse, and that US actions undermined international law. Mitch McCann reports from the United Nations in New York: Canada FM and Governor General to Visit Greenland Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says his foreign minister and the governor general will visit Greenland in early February in the wake of renewed threats by U.S. President Donald Trump to annex the Danish territory. Canada's Foreign Minister Anita Anand and Governor General Mary Simon are expected to open a consulate in Nuuk, Greenland, Simon became Canada's first Indigenous governor general in 2021 and previously served as Canada's ambassador to Denmark. Carney says the future of Greenland and Demark are decided solely (唯一地，完全) by the people of Denmark. He spoke while meeting with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen at the Canadian Embassy in Paris. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 171-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 29,933 on turnover of 14-billion N-T. The market moved sharply higher on Monday - as it closed above the 30,000-point mark for the first time as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing smashed closing records on the back of investor optimism toward demand for its high-end processes. Three individuals and Tokyo Electron Taiwan indicted over new TSMC trade secret theft The Taiwan High Prosecutors' Office Intellectual Property Branch has indicted three individuals and Tokyo Electron Taiwan for stealing Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing's 14-nanometer technology secrets. Those indicted include Chen Li-ming, a former T-S-M-C engineer who worked at Tokyo Electron Taiwan, a T-S-M-C employee and a Tokyo Electron employee. Two of the individuals have been charged with reproducing trade secrets relating to national core (核心) key technologies under the National Security Act. While the other individual and Tokyo Electron Taiwan have been charged with destroying evidence in a criminal case. All three individuals and Tokyo Electron Taiwan have also been indicted in a seperate investigation into the theft of T-S-M-C's 2-nanometer technology. Tourism authority issues guidelines to protect foreign accommodation interns The Tourism Administration has issued updated guidelines to better protect foreign interns in the accommodation/hospitality sector. It comes after the government opened the sector to foreign students enrolled in overseas schools last year to help address labor shortages. The administration says more than 1,900 students came to Taiwan to work as interns last year, but there were concerns over inadequate (不足) protections. Under the updated guidelines, foreign interns who perform work beyond their training must receive payment equivalent to at least the minimum wage, training must not exceed more than eight hours a day or 40 hours a week … … and it cannot be scheduled between 10PM and 6AM, without the individual intern's consent. Iran Protest Death Toll Rises to at Least 35 Activists say the death toll in violence surrounding (周圍的) protests in Iran has risen to at least 35. The figure came from the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, which said more than 1,200 people have been detained in the protests, which have been ongoing for more than a week. It said 29 protesters, four children and two members of Iran’s security forces have been killed. The semiofficial Fars news agency, believed close to Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, says some 250 police officers and 45 members of the Guard’s all-volunteer Basij force have been hurt. UK Gov to Seize Illegal Migrants Phones Mobile phones will now be seized from illegal migrants entering the UK without arrest. The country's government says the new powers will help gather more information on smuggling (走私) gangs organising the Channel crossings. Lara Bentley has more… Auschwitz Survivor Eva Schloss Obit Auschwitz survivor Eva Schloss, stepsister of Anne Frank, has died at 96. The Anne Frank Trust UK, where she was honorary president, said she died Saturday in London. King Charles III praised Schloss for her lifelong dedication to overcoming hatred and prejudice (偏見). Born in Vienna in 1929, Schloss fled to Amsterdam and became friends with Anne Frank. Both families hid from the Nazis but were eventually captured. Schloss survived Auschwitz and later moved to Britain. She became a prominent Holocaust educator, speaking worldwide and writing books. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 429-points this morning from Friday's close, at 29,779 on turnover of 15.7-billion N-T. The market closed at a new high Friday,as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing continued to break records amid the current A-I boom. MOFA welcomes new SVG leader's pledge to maintain diplomatic ties The Ministry of Foreign Affairs say it welcomes a recent pledge (保證) by Saint Vincent and the Grenadines' new prime minister that his government will maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Godwin Friday assumed office in late November and he made the Taiwan comments during a recent radio interview. Friday has been quoted as saying that diplomatic relations with Taiwan remain, as do relations with all countries with which Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has diplomatic ties. According to the foreign ministry, it will continue close communications with the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines' government to deepen bilateral cooperation for the benefit of both peoples. Panama-flagged cargo ship refloated off Hualien without oil spill A Panama-flagged bulk carrier that ran aground off Hualien County on New Year's Day has been successfully refloated and towed into Hualien Port. Authorities says no oil pollution has been detected. The C-S-E Prosperity Express was refloated by two tugboats under coast guard escort after passing hull inspection and safely berthed (停泊) at Wharf No. 22. According to the Maritime Port Bureau, no oil leakage was observed during or after the operation, despite the ship carrying more than 200-metric tons of residual fuel. The carrier is operated by China Steel Express. US Rebuts Russian Claims of Ukrainian Attack on Putin Residence U.S. national security officials have determined that Ukraine did not target a residence belonging to Russian President Vladimir Putin in a drone attack last week. That's according to President Donald Trump. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov last Monday said Ukraine launched (發射) a wave of drones at Putin’s state residence in the northwestern part of Russia. The allegation came just a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had traveled to Florida for talks with Trump. Trump initially appeared to take the Russian allegations at face value and said he was angry. Maduro Case to Revive Legal Debate Over Foreign Leaders Immunity Venezuela's Interim President Delcy Rodriguez has taken the place of her ally President Nicolas Maduro who was captured by the United States in a nighttime military operation. Legal experts say Maduro's case will revive a legal debate over immunity (豁免) for foreign leaders tested in another trial. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports SKorean Star Ahn Sung-ki Obit A Seoul hospital says prominent South Korean movie star Ahn Sung-ki has died. He was 74. The hospital says Ahn died this morning. Ahn has been fighting blood cancer for years. Ahn is one of South Korean cinema’s most beloved (被喜愛的) and respected stars. His 60-year extensive career and positive, gentle public image earned him the nickname “The Nation’s Actor.” That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 53-points this morning on the new year's first trading day, at 29,016, on turnover of 6.5-billion N-T. Taiwan shares closed the final trading session of 2025 at a record high Wednesday, led by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, as the benchmark index capped a second straight year of historic gains fueled by strong demand tied to artificial intelligence infrastructure. For the full year, the benchmark surged nearly 26 percent, surpassing the rise recorded in 2024 and setting a new record for annual point gains for the second consecutive year. The index has now risen more than 20 percent for three straight years. Lockheed gets Taiwan contract The Pentagon says Lockheed Martin has been given a contract involving foreign military sales to Taiwan to meet what Washington is describing as an "urgent operational need" of Taiwan's Air Force. The contract has a ceiling value of 328-million U-S dollars. According to the Pentagon, the contract is for the procurement (採購) and delivery of 55 Infrared Search and Track Legion Enhanced Sensor Pods, processors, pod containers and processor containers. The work is expected to be completed by June of 2031 First official record of Formosan black bear entering worker's hut in Alishan The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency says a Formosan black bear broke into a worker's hut in Alishan's Dabang Village and ate food from a refrigerator and from canned goods. According to the agency's Chiayi branch, personnel were sent to inspect (察看) the site and set up infrared cameras to track the bear after receiving the report. The agency has released photos showing an open refrigerator, broken eggs in a carton, and empty food cans inside the hut - which sits at an elevation of 1,190-meters in Alishan. Experts found footprints near the worker's hut and, based on the damaged canned food, concluded that a Formosan black bear was responsible. Although Formosan black bears are occasionally sighted in the Alishan area, the Dabang Village incident marks the first officially recorded case of a bear entering a worker's hut and eating food. Iran Protests Leave at Least 3 Dead Protests over Iran's struggling economy have spread into rural areas, with at least three people killed. Authorities reported the fatalities on Wednesday and Thursday in cities home to Iran’s Lur ethnic group. The demonstrations are the largest since 2022. The protests began due to economic pressures, with Iran's currency rapidly depreciating (貶值). Demonstrators have also chanted against the country’s theocracy. Trump delays tariff hike on furniture and kitchen cabinets as affordabilitycrisis bites The White House says planned tariff hikes on items like furniture and kitchen cabinets are being pushed back one year. The delay comes as the administration insists its trade strategy is working - even as high prices continue to frustrate (感到煩躁) voters. Toni Waterman has more from Washington. Anthony Joshua to Stay in Nigeria After Release from Hospital British boxer Anthony Joshua is initially staying in Nigeria as he recuperates from injuries sustained after a deadly crash. A vehicle carrying the former heavyweight champion and two of his associates crashed (撞擊) into a stationary truck on Monday on a local highway. The two associates were killed. Joshua was released from a Lagos hospital on Wednesday afternoon and he paid his respects to his deceased friends at the morgue. His promoter, Matchroom Boxing, told The Associated Press that Joshua will remain in Nigeria over the coming days.” That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 16-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 28,723 on turnover of 5-billion N-T. The market closed lower on Tuesday after Wall Street fell overnight as heavyweight tech stocks lost ground from last week's big gains, but the downturn was limited due to government-led funds picking up large cap stocks to minimize volatility. MND highlights China's disinformation during large-scale drill The Ministry of National Defense's Political Warfare Bureau says it identified 46 pieces of disinformation related to China's military exercise on Monday and Tuesday. According to the bureau, the disinformation mainly focused on attacking the Lai administration's policies, slandering (誹謗) the armed forces, and eroding (逐漸毀壞) trust in the United States. Defense ministry spokesman Sun Li-fang says that every major Chinese military exercise since August 2022 has combined military and non-military actions aimed at influencing public opinion here in Taiwan, as well as in neighboring countries and Taiwan-friendly countries. President Lai Ching-te urged the public in a social media post to be mindful of disinformation accompanying the exercise. Lawmakers pass law amendments to Fraud Crime Hazard Prevention Act Lawmakers have passed amendments to the Fraud Crime Hazard Prevention Act. The revisions increase penalties for for high-value fraud and also offer sentence reductions for offenders who voluntarily surrender to authorities and pay full restitutions (歸還,賠償) to their victims. Under the amended Act, judicial and prosecutorial authorities are also authorized to notify financial institutions and virtual asset service providers to flag bank accounts, e-payment accounts, credit cards and virtual asset accounts suspected of being linked to fraud. And the amendments also add new penalty tiers (等級). Those found guilty of high-value fraud exceeding 10-million N-T face a prison sentence of up to 10-years While for fraud cases exceeding 100-million N-T, the statutory prison term has been increased to 7 years. Trump confirms US has bombed Venezuelan port, adds new sanctions US President Donald Trump says the US has struck an alleged drug loading dock inside Venezuela, marking the first strike on Venezuelan soil in his months-long pressure campaign against the government of Nicolas Maduro. Toni Waterman has more from Washington. Italy Approves 2026 Gov Budget Italy’s Parliament has approved the government’s 2026 budget, which includes deficit-cutting measures. The budget aims to reduce the 2026 deficit to 2.8% of GDP, aligning with the European Union's demands. Premier Giorgia Meloni's conservative coalition won the final vote on Tuesday. Meloni describes the budget as serious and responsible, focusing on families, work, businesses and health care. However, the center-left opposition criticizes it for not addressing poor salaries and high taxes. About 25% of the budget’s funding comes from the financial sector, with tax hikes on banks and insurance companies. The European Central Bank warns these levies (課稅) could reduce credit flow. Germany bank Theft Police in Germany say thieves stole tens of millions of euros worth of property from safety deposit boxes inside a bank vault that they drilled into during the holiday lull (暫時平靜[). Some 2,700 bank customers were affected by the theft at the bank branch Monday in Gelsenkirchen. Investigators believe the theft to be worth somewhere between 10 and 90 million euros. German news agency dpa reported that the theft could be one of Germany’s largest heists (搶劫). That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 87-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 28,723 on turnover of 6.4-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Monday as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing saw its share price hit a new record high on the back of reports the company plans to raise prices for its advanced chips. China carrying out live-fire drills around Taiwan China is carrying out live-fire military drills around Taiwan today and has said they will be taking place until 6 o'clock this evening in five designated maritime and airspace zones. The exercises are code-named "Justice Mission 2025." According to coordinates provided by China's Eastern Theater Command, the drills were to be staged (舉辦) in the sea and in the airspaces north of Keelung, east of Taitung, south of Pingtung, southeast of Penghu, and northwest of Taoyuan. The Ministry of National Defense says all five of the drill zones are within Taiwan's territorial waters. According to the ministry, the island's armed forces have established an ad hoc emergency operations center and are respond to developments. Cause of Taichung power outage under investigation Tai-Power says the cause of a power outage that affected over 9,000 households in Taichung's Beitun District is under investigation. The outage began at around 8:55 last night and power was restored (恢復) by 10:30. According to the Tai-Power, the outage not only affected households, but also large numbers of businesses and several fire stations located in the district. Tai-Power says repair teams arrived at the scene and found that the fault was located in the power distribution room. The state generator says personnel carried out repairs, before carrying out two power transfer operations to isolate the fault area. Repair teams also reduced the power outage in order to minimize the number of households affected. Israel PM to Meet Trump in Florida Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is scheduled to meet President Trump in Florida later today for talks that are expected to (預計，預期) focus on the Gaza peace plan, Iran and Lebanon. Blake Sifton reports from Tel Aviv China Condemns Panama Monument Demolition China has condemned the demolition (拆除) of a monument honoring the Chinese community in Panama. Panama’s president echoed the condemnation, blaming local authorities and pledging the monument would be rebuilt. Overnight, videos circulated on social media showing large excavators tearing down the monument. The Chinese Embassy in Panama accused the local authorities of having “brazenly (明目張膽) and forcibly demolished” the monument and “seriously damaged the friendly sentiments of the Chinese people towards the Panamanian people.” It's the latest development as the Trump administration in the US pushes for the Central American nation to distance itself from Beijing. Turkey Armenia to Simplify Visa Procedures Turkey and Armenia have agreed to simplify visa procedures to normalize ties, according to Turkey's Foreign Ministry. The Turkish Foreign Ministry said electronic visas will be available for both countries' passport holders starting Jan. 1-st. Relations have been strained by historic grievances (不平，委屈) and Turkey’s alliance with Azerbaijan. The countries have no formal diplomatic ties, and their border has been closed since the 1990s. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 106-points this morning from Friday's close, at 28,662 on turnover of 4.6-billion N-T. The market closed out last week higher, as investors continued to pick up tech heavyweights, while turnover remained moderate, despite many foreign institutional investors being away for the holidays. Analysts say then lack of foreign institutional investors saw local investors dominating the trading day, and they tended to buy large cap electronics stocks, in particular Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. Lai says Taiwan must raise cost of war and build indigenous defense to deter China President Lai Ching-te says his administration will continue to raise the cost of aggression and strengthen the island's indigenous defense capabilities to deter China. Speaking in a an exclusive interview with Sanlih E-Television News, that aired on Sunday, Lai repeated previous comments that peace can only be secured (保護，使…穩固) through strength. Lai also reiterated that his administration will not provoke China and remains "firmly committed to maintaining the status quo." And he stressed that peace "must be backed by real strength," rather than relying on an agreement or the goodwill of an aggressor. Snow-chasing rider fined for bringing horse onto public road in Wuling And, A man who rode a horse in Wuling in the Hehuanshan area has been fined by police on Sunday for violating traffic regulations. While national park authorities says that are reviewing whether additional penalties will apply. Police say the man was riding his horse on public road at Wuling in an apparent (明顯的) attempt to see snowfall and was issued fine for violating the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act. The incident drew widespread public attention after the man and his horse were spotted in a parking lot in the Hehuanshan area. Subject: E*NKorea Claims Missile Launch to Test Nuclear Deterrence Return to Table of contents North Korea says it fired long-range strategic cruise missiles into the sea to test the country’s nuclear deterrence. The official Korean Central News Agency reports that the missile launches occurred off the country’s west coast on Sunday in the presence of leader Kim Jong Un. The launches were the latest weapons display by North Korea ahead of its planned ruling Workers's Party congress early next year. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said it was aware of several cruise missile launches made from North Korea's capital region on Sunday morning. It said South Korea maintains a readiness to repel any potential North Korean provocations (激怒, 挑撥) through its alliance (聯盟) with the United States. Last week, North Korea test-launched new anti-air missiles off its east coast and unveiled apparent progress in the construction of its first nuclear-powered submarine. Trump and Zelensky meet but report no major breakthroughs US President Donald Trump said a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia was "a lot closer" after he met with Ukrainian leader Volodomyr Zelensky in Florida. However, the meeting didn't appear to yield (產生) any major breakthroughs on key sticking points. Ira Spitzer reports. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Police investigating note posted on Eslite memorial wall KMT and TPP propose 'Taiwan Future Accounts' for children Tai-Ex opening higher Turkey busts Islamic State group Britain's King delivered 2025 Christmas speech -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 73-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 28,384 on turnover of $4.9-billion N-T. Analysts say with foreign institutional investors absent, major local investors seized the opportunity to control the session by buying TSMC, after a U.S. tech rally. TSMC's gains offset losses suffered by other tech heavyweights. And when many large-cap tech stocks trade in weakness, local investors parked their money in smaller tech stocks. Taipei Public Asked Not to Leave Food and Drinks at Attack Memorial Space Taipei Metro is asking the public not to leave food or drinks at a memorial space for victims of a random knife attack last week. The memorial located at Taipei Main Station Exit M7 honors 57-year-old Yu Jia-chang, who was killed on December 19th while attempting to stop the attacker. Transit officials say the hallway near the exit is narrow and they are asking that visitors only leave flower bouquets. Workers will inspect the site daily and remove any food, drinks, or inappropriate (不當) messages after the station closes each night. Taipei Metro also says says it plans to build a permanent monument to recognize Yu's bravery. The Taoyuan City Government also announced it will honor Yu by enshrining him in the Taoyuan Martyrs' Shrine. (NS) 5 undersea cables planned to boost communications resilience: Minister The Minister of Digital Affairs says Taiwan will add two international and three domestic undersea communications cables as part of its efforts to strengthen communications resilience. Minister Lin Yi-jing says the new undersea cables will be hardened with an "armor-like" protective layer, so they will not be easily damaged. According to Lin, the planned undersea cables are part of the ministry's "three-dimensional defensive communications network" initiative, which aims to strengthen Taiwan's communication from land, air and sea. The MInister says the initiative also includes the addition of an Amazon low-earth-orbit satellite constellation and the inauguration of a high-orbit geosynchronous (地球同步) satellite being built by American manufacturer Astranis. On land, the ministry will plan disaster-resilient base stations, expand its existing fleet of vehicles with satcom-on-the-move capability, and procure a large number of mobile diesel generators. Supreme Court blocks Chicago National Guard deployment The US Supreme Court has issued a preliminary ruling blocking the Trump administration from deploying National Guard troops to Chicago. The decision is a rare setback for the administration from the conservative-leaning court, which has largely sided with President Trump so far in testing the limits (試探底線) of executive power. Ira Spitzer reports. Egypt Musem Begins Reassembling Phraoah's Boat The Grand Egyptian Museum has begun reassembling (重新組裝) a boat belonging to Pharaoh Khufu in its exhibition hall. The cedarwood vessel, one of two found with King Khufu, started coming together on Tuesday as visitors watched. The project is expected to take around four years, according to the museum. King Khufu ruled over 4,500 years ago and built the Great Pyramid of Giza. The museum, located near Cairo, houses nearly 50-thousand artifacts. Experts believe the boats were used for Khufu’s funeral or his afterlife journey. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 104-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 28,253 on turnover of $6.4-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed sharply higher Monday, led by the electronics sector, after artificial intelligence-related stocks surged in the United States at the end of last week. Momentum continued yesterday as contract chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing pushed the broader market ahead, and memory chip suppliers continued moving upwards due to a supply shortage. Buying also spread to non-tech stocks with the electric machinery industry in focus, providing more support to the Taiex. Taiwan cracks down on threats following Taipei attack Authorities are intensifying (強化) actions against online threats, following Friday's deadly knife and smoke bomb attacks in Taipei, which killed 3. Taichung prosecutors say a man was ordered detained and held incommunicado after he posted online referencing plans for large-scale attacks. Investigators searching his home and seized his phone. The Criminal Investigation Bureau said that about 20 online posts involving threats or calls for indiscriminate attacks had been identified nationwide as of Sunday. Hualien man fined after ostrich runs wild In Hualien's Yuli township, a man has been fined after his pet ostrich escaped its enclosure and was spotted running among motorists on Provincial Highway 9. Authorities in the township say that one officer was conducting (進行) an "online patrol" yesterday morning when they came across photos of the loose ostrich on social media. Officers were able to find the owner, surnamed Huang, who said he usually kept the bird in an enclosure. But yesterday morning, the bird was apparently scared by something and took off running down the highway… running a red light and continuing south to a factory near Yuli Senior High School. All in all, it ran about 2.5 kilometers. After questioning Huang, police issued him a citation under the law… which stipulates a fine of 300-600 NT. Denmark summons US ambassador over Greenland appointment Denmark has summoned the US ambassador after Donald Trump's appointment of a special envoy to Greenland. The US president has repeatedly expressed (表達) interest in taking over the island, angering the Danish government, which has controlled Greenland for centuries. Ira Spitzer reports. Nigeria Abducted Children and Teachers Released Nigerians have welcomed back 130 children and teachers who were released after being seized in one of the largest mass abductions (綁架) in the country’s history. Some of the children appeared to be malnourished or in shock on Monday as they arrived at a government ceremony. Police said they were freed Sunday, a month after gunmen stormed their Catholic school in Niger state’s Papiri community in a predawn attack. Authorities said plans were underway to reunite the children with their families before Christmas. Officials did not say whether a ransom — common in such abductions — had been paid. France Cyberattack Knocks Out Postal Service A suspected cyberattack has knocked France’s national postal service and its banking arm offline during the busy Christmas season. La Poste said Monday the attack disrupted package deliveries and online payments, but customer data was not impacted (受影響). At a Paris post office, employees turned away frustrated (惱怒的，不滿意的) customers trying to send or retrieve packages. Customers of the bank were blocked from using the application to approve payments or conduct other banking services. The bank redirected approvals to text messages. It said teams are working to resolve the situation quickly. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 290-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,987 on turnover of $10.5-billion N-T. The market ended up last week Friday, as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing last week recorded an increase in shareholders to the highest number in almost eight months. Analysts say TSMC is expected to continue to benefit from strong global demand for its high-end processes to meet strong global demand for artificial intelligence applications. Air pollution warning issued for sensitive groups The Ministry of Environment is warning that northeasterly monsoon winds will continue to bring increased pollution to southern and central parts of the island today. The ministry says pollutants from overseas are forecast to bring air quality to an orange alert level in those areas and sensitive groups are advised to avoid outdoor activities. Under the ministry's Air Quality Index system, during an orange alert, people with heart, respiratory, or cardiovascular conditions, as well as children and the elderly, are advised to reduce physical exertion (體力消耗/勞動) and limit outdoor activity or wear a mask when going out. According to the environment ministry, the concentrations of fine particulate matter are being brought to Taiwan by a northeasterly monsoon from China's Shanghai and Shandong areas. The impact of transboundary pollution is expected to ease later today. Coast Guard is pursuing another tanker allegedly helping Venezuela skirt sanctions US officials say the Coast Guard is pursuing another tanker is says is helping Venezuela skirt (避開，繞開) sanctions. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports Israel Approves Settlements in West Bank Israel’s far-right finance minister says the Cabinet has approved 19 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank. The decision announced Sunday is part of a broader push by the government to expand settlements, which threatens the possibility of a Palestinian state. The Peace Now anti-settlement group says the approval increases the number of settlements in the West Bank by nearly 50% during the current government’s tenure (任期). Settlements are widely considered illegal under international law. The decision comes as the U.S. is pushing Israel and Hamas to advance a Gaza ceasefire plan that includes a possible pathway to a Palestinian state. France to Build New Aircraft Carrier French President Emmanuel Macron has announced plans to build a new aircraft carrier. The vessel will have the capacity for 30 fighter jets and 2,000 sailors. Macron described it as a display of national power. The announcement was made to French troops in Abu Dhabi. The new carrier is set to replace the aging Charles de Gaulle by 2038. It will be nuclear-powered and equipped with Rafale M fighter jets. The project is expected to benefit (對……有益) many small- and medium-sized businesses. Macron has also announced increased military spending, aiming for 64 billion euros by 2027. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 217-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,685 on turnover of $8.7-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Thursday as renewed concerns about an artificial intelligence bubble drove Wall Street down overnight. Analysts say renewed fears over an A-I bubble triggered selling in large-cap AI-related stocks and investors seized on the lead as an excuse (藉口) to pocket recent gains. However, the Tai-Ex still recovered from its initial downturn by the end of the session and the index saw strong technical support ahead of the 27,400-point mark - which is around the 60-day moving average. Central bank leaves interest rates unchanged for 7th straight quarter The central bank has opted to leave its key interest rates unchanged after wrapping up (結束) it final quarterly policymaking meeting of this year. The market had widely anticipated the bank would leave interest rates unchanged for the seventh consecutive quarter - despite the U-S Federal Reserve cutting rates for the third straight policymaking meeting last week. The decision by the central bank means that the discount rate remains at 2-percent and that's still the highest level in 15 years. Economists have said it's currently difficult for the central bank to follow the U-S Fed's lead and cut interest rates as the local economy remains strong and inflation stable. According to government estimates, the island's economy will grow 7.37-per cent for the whole of this year, largely on the back of an increase of 8.21-per cent in the third quarter due strong global demand for artificial intelligence applications. EU Delays FTA with SAmerican Countries Amid Protests The European Commission says the European Union is delaying a massive free-trade deal with South American countries after fiery protests by farmers and last-minute opposition by France and Italy. Top EU officials had hoped to sign the EU-Mercosur in Brazil this weekend, after more than 25 years of negotiations. Instead Commission chief spokesperson Paula Pinho confirmed that the signature had been put off until January. Experts say the delay will dent the EU’s negotiating credibility globally as it seeks to forge (創造) new trade ties amid commercial tensions with the U.S. and China. USTrump signs executive order that could reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order labeling (標示，標籤) marijuana a less dangerous drug. AP Washington correspondent Sagar Meghani reports Italy Monument Outside PM Office Restored Italian restorers have used laser beams to clean an ancient Roman marble column in the piazza outside the prime minister’s office, removing layers of dust and grime that had covered the monument for decades. The 47-meter-tall column, built between A.D. 180 and 193, features a relief that spirals (盤旋上升) upward and recounts the battles of one of Rome’s best-known emperors, Marcus Aurelius. During the column’s last restoration, in the 1980s, restorers used tiny brushes to remove the dirt. The $2.3-million dollar restoration is funded by the post-pandemic European recovery fund, and includes a new system to illuminate (照亮) the column at night. Work began in April and the restoration (恢復) is expected to finish in June. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 77-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,447 on turnover of 9-billion N-T. The market closed marginally lower on Wednesday as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing saw its early gains eroded due to futures-led selling on the settlement day for December futures contracts. US official says Taiwan made 'essential contributions' at Pax Silica summit The U-S Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment says Taiwan made essential contributions after being invited to participate in the first summit of the US-led AI supply chain strategy initiative. The inaugural Pax Silica summit took place in Washington D.C. last Friday. According to Jacob Helberg, Taiwan was at the table and was absolutely present in all of the sessions in which one would expect Taiwan to play an important role, and Taiwan participated in discussions on manufacturing and semiconductors. The statement comes after the U-S State Department didn't list Taiwan as being includes on a list of participants and guest contributors (貢獻者) slated to meet for the summit. Taipei City Government hoping to sign Nvidia land deal before LNY Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an says the city government is hoping to sign a land rights agreement with Nvidia before the Lunar New Year holiday. According to Chiang, his administration initiated (發起) the urban planning change process last week and a public exhibition period is set to end within one month. Chiang made the statements while inspecting the T-17 and T-18 sites at the Beitou-Shilin Technology Park, where the Nvidia headquarters will be built. Chiang also said he believes Nvidia's headquarters at the technology park will prove to be transformative development that will establish Taipei as a major artificial intelligence hub. Israel Fires Mortar into Palestinian Residential Area in Gaza Strip Israel’s military says troops fired a mortar shell into a Palestinian residential area in the Gaza Strip, in the latest incident to rock the tenuous (脆弱的) ceasefire with Hamas. Health officials on Wednesday said at least 10 people, were wounded, and the army said it was investigating. The military said the mortar was fired during an operation in the area of the “Yellow Line,” which was drawn in the ceasefire agreement that divides the Israeli-held majority of Gaza from the rest of the territory. The military said the mortar had veered from its intended target, which it did not specify. UK TO Rejoin EU's Erasmus Program in 2027 UK students will once again have access to the European Union's "Erasmus" programme, which allows students to study at a university in a different country for part of their degree. London has paid around $760 million dollars to join the scheme (方案) for the 2027-2028 academic year at a 30% discount. But future participation will depend on further negotiations. Stuart Smith has more from London. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 59-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,596 on turnover of 5.7-billion N-T. The market tumbled once again on Tuesday, ahead of the release of U-S employment and inflation reports that could drive the direction of interest rates. While mixed performances for artificial intelligence-related stocks on Wall Street overnight also did nothing to lift investor concerns about an A-I bubble. Lawmakers pass amendments strengthening undersea cable protections Lawmakers have passed amendments to four separate acts governing ships, ports, meteorological facilities and telecommunications (電信). Passage of the amendments is part of the Cabinet's moves to update Taiwan's so-called "seven undersea-cable laws." The changes to the Law of Ships, Meteorological Act, Telecommunications Management Act and Commercial Port Law are aimed at strengthening protections for submarine cables … …. which the government has said could pose a threat to national security if cut or otherwise damaged. MOTC's new vehicle window tinting rules to take effect next year The Ministry of Transport has announced that new regulations governing tinted vehicle windows will be taking effect in the first quarter of next year. According to the ministry, owners of new vehicles must ensure that the tint on the front windshield has visible light transmission (透射) of no less than 70-per cent, while front, side windows must allow at least 40-per cent light transmission. The new regulations are being introduced as part of proposed amendments to the Road Traffic Safety Rules to address concerns over safety risks posed by tinted windows. The proposed amendments will apply to all newly registered and licensed vehicles. US military blows up 3 more alleged drug boats as Trump weaponizes fentanyl The US military says it has blown up three more alleged drug boats in the Eastern Pacific - killing eight people. The total death toll in the Trump Administration's revamped war on drugs is now closing in on 100. The latest strikes come as the Trump Administration ramps up its war on drugs, designating illicit (非法的) fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction. Toni Waterman Private Canada Delegation Barred from West Bank Israel has barred a private Canadian delegation that included six members of Parliament from entering the occupied West Bank. The Israeli Embassy in Canada said the group was denied entry on Tuesday because of its links to Islamic Relief Worldwide, a nongovernmental organization that Israel lists as a terror group. Ontario Member of Parliament, who was part of the delegation, said she was shoved several times by Israeli border officials at the Allenby crossing between Jordan and the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said in a post on social media that Canada has expressed its objections (反對) over the barring. Jane Austen 250th Bday Celebration Fans of Jane Austen are celebrating the author's 250th birthday with events in Britain and beyond. Austen enthusiasts gathered Tuesday for a church service in her home village and festive visits to her house. A virtual birthday party allowed fans worldwide to join in. Thousands have participated in a yearlong celebration of the author, known for "Pride and Prejudice" and "Sense and Sensibility." Jane Austen’s House in the southern English village of Chawton hosted talks, tours, and performances. Fans have marked the occasion (慶祝/紀念這個時刻) with Regency balls and festivals in the U.K., U.S., and elsewhere around the world. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 145-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,721 on turnover of 7.5-billion N-T. The market took a beating on Monday, on the back of a decline in investor interest in artificial intelligence-related stocks, as selling followed heavy losses on Wall Street last Friday amid lingering concerns of an A-I bubble. MAC voices regret over Jimmy Lai conviction in Hong Kong The Mainland Affairs Council is expressing his "deep regret" over the conviction of Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai under the territory's national security law. The council says it "strongly condemns the Hong Kong government for using the malicious (惡意的) national security law to curb freedom of speech and press freedom, and to politically persecute pro-democracy figures." The statement issued by the council also says the ruling was "tantamount to declaring to the world" that Hong Kong's freedom, democracy, and judicial independence have been "gradually eroded." MOEA to invest NT$2.5 billion to boost adoption of artificial intelligence The Administration of Commerce has announced plans to invest at 2.5-billion N-T over the next two years to expand support for the adoption of artificial intelligence within the island's commercial service sector. According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the program will targets businesses in wholesale, retail, food and beverage, and logistics as more companies in those fields are seeking to adopt A-I tools. The ministry says it expects to help over 30,000 businesses adopt A-I through the funding program. The Department of Commerce says the service will help businesses evaluate A-I adoption conditions and provide guidance (指導) based on scale and digital capability. US foils New Year Eve's terror bomb plot US authorities have arrested four people who were allegedly planning a New Year's Eve terror plot (陰謀) in southern California. Nick Harper reports. Mexico Plane Crash Kills Seven A small plane has crashed in central Mexico while attempting an emergency landing, killing at least seven people. Mexican officials say the accident happened Monday in an industrial area near Toluca airport. The plane had taken off (起飛) from Acapulco. Authorities say the private jet had eight passengers and two crew members, but only seven bodies have been recovered. The plane apparently tried to land on a soccer field but hit a nearby business, causing a large fire. The crash is under investigation, and the fire forced the evacuation of about 130 people. SSudan Grounds UN Aircraft South Sudan’s government has grounded four aircraft registered under the United Nations mission there, alleging that they were used for illegal surveillance and smuggling. The U.N. denied it. South Sudan’s foreign minister said a government committee was examining the aircraft after intelligence reports raised security concerns, and two were found with advanced (先進的) surveillance and intelligence recording systems. A U.N. mission spokesperson said the mission has been talking with South Sudan’s government “for a while now to resolve this issue” and said the mission works transparently (透明地) with it on U.N. operations. South Sudan's government in 2017 grounded U.N. aircraft after peacekeepers were deployed to guard the country's main airport. The government said that was not part of their mandate. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 78-points this morning from Friday's close, at 28,119 on turnover of 5-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Friday, after Wall Street's rose to more record highs overnight, despite a sell-off for Oracle as investors worries persist about a potential bubble in artificial-intelligence technology. Newly delivered M1A2T tanks to undergo month-long tests A batch of 42 M-1-A-2-T Abrams main battle tanks delivered by the United States in July will begin a month-long testing program today. According to reports, the testing will be taking place at an Army base in northern Taiwan and include multiple live-fire drills using the tanks' 120-millimeter main guns. The tanks were recently deployed to an Army training ground in Hsinchu County for training sessions ahead of the testing phase. The testing program is set to focus on evaluating the tanks' observation and targeting (靶向) systems, as well as their integration with the ammunition system. Reports say the month-long tests are expected to conclude by the end of January, after which the tanks will enter active service with the Army. Police seize NT$100 million worth of mephedrone in Kaohsiung Law enforcement agencies in Kaohsiung have raided (突襲、掃蕩) a mephedrone manufacturing site - arresting three suspects and seizing drugs with an estimated market value of 100-million N-T. According to Kaohsiung City Police Department's Renwu Precinct, the site was located in the city's Dashu District and was being used to produce "meow meow." The raid was led by the Ciaotou District Prosecutors' Office. Police say they seized drug manufacturing equipment, more than 47-kilograms of finished mephedrone, and about 300-kilograms of unfinished product during the raid. The case has been transferred to prosecutors for potential indictments under the Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act. Ukraine President Offers to Drop NATO Bid but Rejects Ceding Territory Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is offering to drop Ukraine’s NATO bid in exchange for security guarantees. AP correspondent Rica Ann Garcia reports Australia Bondi Beach Shooting Leaves Over a Dozen Dead Two gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney's Bondi beach, killing 15 people, including a child. Officials say one gunman, a 50-year-old man, was fatally shot by police. The other shooter, his 24-year-old son, was wounded and was being treated at a hospital. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called an act of antisemitic terrorism that struck at the heart of the nation. Those killed were aged between 10- and 87-years-old. At least 42 others were being treated at hospitals as of this morning, several of them in a critical condition (命危). Police said one gunman was known to security services, but authorities had no indication of a planned attack. It was the deadliest shooting in almost three decades in a country with strict gun control laws. Chile Conservative Opposition Wins Presidential Runoff Chile’s ultra-conservative opposition candidate, Jose Antonio Kast, has secured a victory in the presidential runoff election. He defeated the candidate of the left-wing governing coalition by over 15 percentage points on Sunday, setting the stage for the country’s most right-wing government in 35 years of democracy. According to electoral results with over 95% of the vote counted, Kast won more than 58% of the vote. Chilean voters embraced his pledge to crack down on increased crime, deport (驅逐出境) hundreds of thousands of immigrants without legal status and revive the sluggish (遲緩) economy of one of Latin America’s most stable and prosperous (繁榮) nations. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 73-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 28,098 on turnover of $5.9-billion N-T. The market joined other regional indexes and lost ground on Thursday, despite Wall Street closing higher after the U-S Federal Reserve opted to cut interest rates. While some leading tech companies saw sharp declines after Oracle, a bellwether in the artificial intelligence sector, reported weaker than expected earnings - which dented investor sentiment. Cabinet seeks to establish agencies for seniors and children The Cabinet says it's finalized proposals to create two new agencies to strengthen services for children, families and seniors. The proposals will now be sent to the Legislature for review. Under the proposals, a Long-term Care and Social Development Agency will be created to handle matters related to the elderly, people with disabilities, women. That agency will also oversee (監督) the National Pension system. While a Child and Family Support Agency will be established to oversee policies related to the welfare of minors and to provide support for families with children. The Cabinet says both new agencies will be under the supervision of the Ministry of Health. According to Health Minister Shih Chung-liang, the proposed Long-term Care and Social Development Agency is being designed to address Taiwan's rapidly aging society and declining birthrate. Thailand PM Receive Royal Permission to Dissolve Parliament Thailandˇs Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul received royal permission today to dissolve (解散) Parliament, setting up general elections early next year. The election for the House of Representatives would be held 45 to 60 days after the Royal Decree, a period while Anutin will head a caretaker government with limited powers and cannot approve a new budget. Anutin posted on his Facebook late Thursday that ¨Iˇd like to return power to the people.〃 The move comes at a tricky political moment, as Thailand is engaged in large-scale combat with Cambodia over long-disputed border claims. About two dozen people were reported killed in the fighting this week, while hundreds of thousands have been displaced on both sides. Anutin has been prime minister for just three months, succeeding Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who served only a year in office. Questions over the legality of Donald Trump new golden visa Legal observers are raising questions over Donald Trump's golden visa scheme (方案), in which foreign nationals can pay a million dollars to begin the path to US citizenship. Mitch McCann reports: Canada Conservative Lawmaker Defects to Liberals A Canadian Conservative lawmaker has defected from his party and joined Prime Minister Mark Carneyˇs governing Liberals. The move by Michael Ma leaves the Liberal Party just short of a simple majority of the seats in Parliament. Ma, who represents MarkhamUnionville, is the second Canadian Conservative lawmaker to join Carneyˇs Liberals in just over a month. Ma said he entered politics ¨to focus on solutions, not division (分歧)〃. The move puts the Liberals one shy of a majority government and being able to pass any bill without the support of an opposition party. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginal down this morning from yesterday's close, at 28,385 on turnover of 4.1-billion N-T. The market gained ground on Wednesday, as investors were optimistic that the U-S Federal Reserve would cut its key interest rates for a third time this year following its policy making meeting. While reports that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing will produce Nvidia's high-performance H-200 A-I chips and they will be made here in Taiwan also drove investor confidence higher. MOFA thanks allies for their support at annual Interpol meeting The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has thanked eight formal diplomatic allies for supporting Taiwan's bid to participate in Interpol during the agency's annual General Assembly in Morocco late last month. According to the ministry, senior officials from the Marshall Islands, Belize, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Guatemala, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Paraguay, and Eswatini all spoke up on Taiwan's behalf. The foreign ministry says it delayed publicly thanking the allies until now because the assembly was held in a closed-door format (模式，格式), and it needed time to collect information on their respective addresses. Former digital minister warns TSMC faces rising cybersecurity risks Former Digital Affairs Minister Huang Yen-nan is warning that cyberattacks could be the most effective way for hostile actors to damage Taiwan's semiconductor advantage. According to Huang, companies such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing need to strengthen precautions. The former digital minister now heads (領導) Academia Sinica's Taiwan Information Security Center. Speaking at a conference on geopolitics and chip strategy, Huang said T-S-M-C's global influence has grown with A-I, making it "too big to fail," as any disruption to its production a national security concern. Venezuela Opposition Leader Appears in Public Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has appeared in public for the first time in 11 months. She appeared on a hotel balcony in Norway's capital early this morning and waved to supporters. Her daughter accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf (代表她) a day earlier. Machado had been in hiding since Jan. 9 after being briefly detained during a protest in Caracas. She was expected to attend the award ceremony Wednesday in Oslo but couldn’t make it in time. EU leaders reject Trump "weak" comment European leaders have rejected claims (聲稱) from U.S. President Donald Trump that the continent is run by weak people. William Denselow reports from Brussels. Study: HumanClimateChange Caused Deadly Rainfall in Asia New analysis suggests that ocean temperatures warmed by human-caused climate change fed the intense rainfall that triggered deadly floods and landslides across Asia in recent weeks. The rapid study by World Weather Attribution focused on heavy rainfall from cyclones Senyar and Ditwah in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Sri Lanka starting late last month. The analysis found that warmer sea surface temperatures over the North Indian Ocean added energy to the cyclones. Floods and landslides triggered by (觸發於) the storms have killed more than 1,600 people, with hundreds more still missing. The cyclones are the latest in a series of deadly weather disasters affecting Southeast Asia this year, resulting in loss of life and property damage. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

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 28,190 on turnover of 3.8-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday as it followed most other regional markets and closed lower after Wall Street sank overnight as investors await the outcome of Wednesday's meeting of the U-S Federal Reserve and expectations of more interest rate cuts. MOFA protests South Korea listing it as part of China The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is continuing to urge South Korea to amend its electronic entry card system that lists Taiwan as part of China. The ministry says it has yet to receive a direct response from Seoul on the matter after highlighting (突出顯示) the error in its newly launched e-Arrival card system earlier this month. Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs Director-General Liu Kun-hao is expressing the need for a correction - saying revising the island's designation underscores the importance of longstanding economic, cultural, and tourism exchanges between the two sides. Liu says there are serious concerns about the improper designation and the government is reviewing its overall relationship with South Korea - noting a large and long-standing trade deficit that highlights what he's describing as an unequal relationship. Taiwan raises long-term care tax deduction to NT$180,000 Lawmakers have approved an amendment that will raise the annual long-term care deduction to 180,000 N-T. The deduction previously stood at 120,000 N-T and the amendment to Article 17 of the Income Tax Act is aimed at easing (減輕) the financial burden of households supporting a dependent who requires long-term care. The change will apply retroactively from January 1 of this year and start to take effect in tax filings in May of 2026. Under Article 17 of the Income Tax Act, taxpayers may claim the deduction to taxable income for themselves, their spouses, or dependents officially recognized by the Ministry of Health as requiring long-term care due to physical or cognitive impairment. Zelenskyy refuses to cede land to Russia as he rallies European support Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says his country will not cede (放棄) territory to Russia. AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports < Canada Ambassador to US Resigning Next Year Canada’s ambassador to the U.S. for the last six years says she’s resigning next year as the two major trading partners review the free trade agreement. Ambassador Kirsten Hillman said Tuesday it is the right time to put in place someone who will see a review of the free trade agreement through to conclusion. Canada’s free trade deal with the U.S. is up for review in 2026. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says Hillman “prepared (準備) the foundations for Canada in the upcoming review" of the agreement. Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appointed Hillman in 2017. She was the first woman appointed (任命) to the role. Hillman helped lead the trade negotiations during U.S. President Donald Trump’s first term and worked with U.S. and Chinese officials to win the release of two Canadians detained in China. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 60-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 28,364 on turnover of 10.5-billion N-T. The market gained solid ground on Monday after surpassing the 28,000 point mark in early trading on the back of strong investor interest in electronic and semiconductor heavyweights. US Congress revises bill allocating Taiwan security funding The U-S Congress has released a new draft of the National Defense Authorization Act - which includes up to 1-billion U-S dollars in funding for Taiwan-related security cooperation in 2026. The new draft removes earlier language that would have invited Taiwan to participate in the US-led Rim of the Pacific Exercise. The bill will require the U-S defense secretary to "enable fielding of uncrewed (無人的) and anti-uncrewed systems capabilities" with Taiwan by March 1 of next year, and those systems must comply with the Taiwan Relations Act and be usable by both U-S and Taiwanese forces. The compromise version was produced after the U-S.Senate and House of Representatives reconciled their separate versions into a unified bill. Taiwan forms clinical trial alliance to accelerate access to new medicines Taiwan has launched a new clinical trial alliance aimed at coordinating medical institutions nationwide to help patients gain faster access to promising but not yet approved medicines. The Taiwan Alliance of Clinical Trial Centers has been initiated by the Taipei Medical University. It brings together 32 medical and research institutions nationwide and is backed by the government and aims to pool resources (共用資源), strengthen coordination and enhance Taiwan's international competitiveness. Health Minister Shih Chung-liang says the alliance is expected to boost international collaboration by encouraging pharmaceutical companies to choose Taiwan as a base for research and development. Japan Tsunami Warning Lifted After Quake A magnitude 7.5 earthquake has struck off northern Japan, injuring at least 30 people and triggering (觸發) a tsunami. The quake hit late on Monday, about 80 kilometers off the coast of the Aomori region. The public broadcaster NHK says all tsunami warnings have now been lifted, while waves up to 70 centimeters were reported. The Fire and Disaster Management Agency says people were mostly injured by falling objects. Nuclear power plants are conducting safety checks, and some train services are suspended. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned of possible aftershocks and an increased risk of a megaquake. Supreme Court weighs whether President Trump can fire heads of independent agencies The US Supreme Court is hearing arguments on whether President Donald Trump has the authority to fire a top Federal Trade Commission official - in a case that could have far reaching consequences for independent regulators. FTC commissioner Rebecca Slaughter was ousted earlier this year - told that her service was "inconsistent (不一致的) with the Administration's priorities". Toni Waterman reports That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 53-points this morning from Friday's close, at 28,034 on turnover of 6.4-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Friday as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing rebounded from an early low, boosted by growing expectations the U-S Federal Reserve will cut interest rates later this week. Six injured in Banqiao restaurant suspected gas explosion Six people have been injured following a suspected gas explosion at a restaurant in New Taipei's Banqiao District. The second floor resturants is located in Banqiao's Fuzhong Shopping District. According to the city's fire department, two restaurants were damaged in the blast and the six people were injured by flying debris. Police say of the six people injured, five were passersby (路人) and one was resident of a nearby building. One person with minor injuries refused medical treatment, while the others, who also also suffered minor injuries were treated at the Shuang Ho Hospital and Far Eastern Memorial Hospital. The cause of the blast is still under investigation. New device installed near Matai'an barrier lake to boost monitoring The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency says micro-seismometer has been installed near the Matai'an Creek barrier lake in Hualien to strengthen monitoring of landslides and potential flood surges in the area. The move come a after an overflow triggered (觸發) deadly flooding in September. According to the agency, the micro-seismometer has been installed by a four-member team from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University and was airlifted to a slope about 1-kilometer south of the lake by National Airborne Service Corps. The agency says it will enable real-time alerts and help determine whether debris has blocked the creek or if a barrier lake dam is about to overflow. US Judges deal setback to Justice Department effort to seek new indictment against Comey From the US….. There's been a setback (挫折) for prosecutors seeking a new indictment against former FBI Director James Comey. AP correspondent Donna Warder reports Indonesia First Giant Panda Cub in Good Health The first giant panda cub born in Indonesia is noisy, nursing well and showing other signs of good health. Indonesian Safari Park released video and photos Sunday showing the fuzzy newborn in an incubator (保溫箱) and squirming and squealing while being cuddled by his mother. Hu Chun gave birth to Satrio Wiratama — nicknamed Rio — on Nov. 27 at the zoo in West Java province. The zoo said it was prioritizing the health and welfare of the mother and baby and he would not yet be accessible (可接近的) to the public. The adult pandas arrived in Indonesia in 2017 on a 10-year conservation partnership with China. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 0.7-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,796 on turnover of $4.99-billion N-T. Government to ban food-waste pig feeding from 2027, with 1-year transition The Cabinet has approved a plan to phase out the use of food waste in pig farming by December 31 of next year - paving the way (為…鋪路) for a full ban starting in 2027. The move is part of the government's efforts to prevent African swine fever outbreaks. Under the policy, food-waste feeding will be permitted only under strict conditions during that period, after which it will be fully prohibited. Farmers will be given a one-year grace period and financial incentives to switch to commercial feed. During the transition year, farms may use food waste only with local government approval and after they meet several requirements - including installing heat-treatment and video monitoring systems and adding G-P-S tracking to transport vehicles. Only business-generated food waste, animal by-products and slaughterhouse scraps (廢料，廚餘) will be allowed - and all household food waste will be banned from use on pig farms. Taiwan and Czech institutes launch African medical aid procurement program Taiwan's Institute for Biotechnology and Medicine Industry has signed an agreement with the Czech Health Technology Institute to jointly launch an African medical aid procurement program. The institutes have been working to help a range of Taiwanese medical products, including handheld (手持式) ultrasound devices, microplate readers and electrocardiography systems, enter Eastern European markets through various projects since 2023. According to the Institute for Biotechnology and Medicine Industry, the latest partnership is aimed at further strengthening ties through the launch of the African medical aid procurement program. The institute says the program will source a range of medical equipment from Taiwan to bolster primary healthcare, maternal and child care, and the resilience of regional and central hospitals in sub-Saharan Africa. US Reviewing Tanzania relationship following election violence The United States is "reviewing" its relationship with Tanzania in the wake of violence that marred the country's elections in October. United Nations experts estimate that hundreds of protesters were killed during the brutal (嚴酷的) election crackdown. Nick Harper reports from Washington. UN Security Council Delegation Visits Syria A United Nations Security Council delegation has visited Syria for the first time since the council's founding in 1945. The visit, on Thursday, comes just before the one-year anniversary of former President Bashar Assad's fall. It marks Syria's reintegration (重新融入) into the international community under interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The Security Council president, says the delegation aims to build trust. They met with Syrian leaders, civil society, and communities affected by violence. Discussions included justice, reconciliation, and economic development. Syria's state-run news agency notes that Security Council visits are rare, requiring unanimous agreement. Eurovision Countries Drop Out Amid Israel Participation At least four countries have announced they are pulling out of next year’s Eurovision Song Contest. This decision follows the organizers' choice to allow Israel to compete, despite concerns over its conduct in the Israel-Hamas war. Dutch, Spanish, Irish and Slovenian broadcasters announced plans to sit out the context in Vienna next May. It came after the European Broadcasting Union, which runs Eurovision, voted to adopt tougher voting rules after allegations of Israel manipulating (操縱) votes. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 19-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,773 on turnover of 5.8-billion N-T. The market gained ground again on Wednesday, on the back of investor interest in tech and electronic market heavyweights and after Wall Street held steady overnight. Premier claims opposition demand for President to be questioned over special budget unconstitutional Premier Cho Jung-tai says a demand by opposition lawmakers that President Lai Ching-te face questions in the Legislative Yuan related to his 1.25-trillion N-T special defense budget is "unconstitutional." The statement comes after lawmakers from the K-M-T and the Taiwan People's Party blocked a bill authorizing the special defense budget from being placed on the agenda for tomorrow's Legislative plenary session. K-M-T caucus whip Fu Kun-chi has said while the party's supports protecting Taiwan, they believe Lai should report to the Legislature and explain the necessity of the expenditure. Taiwanese accounts unaffected in Coupang's recent data leak The Ministry of Digital Affairs says there is no evidence to suggest that Coupang users here in Taiwan were affected by a large-scale personal data leak recently reported by the South Korean e-commerce giant. According to the ministry, it contacted Coupang in late November after learning of the incident and was informed that the breach occurred mainly in South Korea and, based on checks carried out so far, no leaks involving Taiwanese accounts have been found. The ministry says it will continue monitoring the case and maintain communication with Coupang to ensure (確保) the protection of local users' personal information. South Korean media has reported that personal information of around 33.7-million users was exposed. Hong Kong fire death toll hits 159 after towers searched The death toll from Hong Kong's worst fire in decades rose to 159. Police said they have completed a search inside all seven of eight high-rise buildings ravaged (嚴重破壞、毀壞) in the fire that first broke out last Wednesday and took until Friday to be extinguished. About 30 people remain missing. Laura Westbrook reports. Moldova Bomb Disposal Deployed Police in Moldova have deployed bomb disposal experts to a community miles from the Ukrainian border after a resident mistook (誤以為) a grounded drone for “a toy” and took it home. Police on Wednesday said the drone did not contain explosives or pose a danger, and urged the public to “not touch or attempt to transport fallen drones or similar objects.” Authorities did not say where the drone came from. They said it was a Gerbera-type drone. Russia has used those in Ukraine. A number of drones have been found on Moldovan territory since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Greece Farmer Protests Farmers in northern Greece have blocked border crossings with North Macedonia, Bulgaria and Turkey as part of a growing protest over delays in farm subsidy payments. The demonstration on Wednesday comes amid a major subsidy fraud scandal (醜聞) that led to the resignation of five senior officials. Tractor convoys caused significant traffic disruptions and forced vehicles onto long detours. Government officials say they are open to negotiations but will not allow key transport corridors, ports or rail hubs (中心) to be shut down. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Lai tells reservists there's no room for compromise on Taiwan's security MOFA open to restoring ties with Honduras South Korea prosecutors say they won't detain former deputy PM Arizona sues Chinese online retailer Temu Rare Faberge egg sells for more US$30 million at auction in London -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 207-points this morning from yesterday's close at 27,550 on turnover of 8.8-billion N-T. The market tumbled nearly 300 points on Monday amid investor concerns over an A-I bubble - which triggered heavy selling in the bellwether electronics sector, to pull the broader market into negative territory. Top trade negotiator claiming Taiwan 'very likely' to secure stacking relief from US The government's top trade negotiator says the U-S and Taiwan are in the final stages of trade negotiations and the outcome will "very likely" result in Taiwan obtaining tariff stacking relief. According Yang Jen-ni, she firmly believes the negotiating team will achieve such that goal, as it has been working to ensure that any adjusted tariff rate for Taiwan will not be added to the existing ones. Yang says Taiwan might also obtain most favored nation status under Section 232 of the U-S Trade Expansion Act. She's also denying reports the U-S government is seeking a commitment from Taiwan to train American workers in the semiconductor manufacturing sector and other tech industries as part of the trade deal. CDC marks World AIDS Day with a drag show to fight HIV stigma And, The Centers for Disease Control marked World AIDS Day by inviting drag queens for a performance it says was aimed at breaking down stigma (汙名) against people living with HIV. Held under the theme of "Breaking Myths, Keeping Love on Track," the event featured performances by several local drag queens. C-D-C Director-General Philip Luo says more than 1,000 HIV infections were reported last year, and Taiwan's policies on testing, follow-up, and treatment are on the right track, which has led to a decline in new infections this year. Luo also says HIV testing has been more active this year than last year and the C-D-C has forecast that new HIV infections this year will fall below 900, to a 22-year low. Hong Kong arrests more suspects in fire probe as death toll hits 151 Hong Kong authorities said on Monday they had arrested 13 people for suspected manslaughter (誤殺) in a probe into the city's worst fire in more than half a century. At least 151 people are now known to have died. Laura Westbrook reports. Congo Declares Ebola Outbreak Over A recent Ebola outbreak (爆發) in southern Congo has been declared over by health officials, after no new cases were reported for 45 days. Congo's health minister says the outbreak resulted in 53 confirmed cases and 43 deaths. The government announced the latest outbreak of the virus in September in the southern Kasai province town of Bulape, and it spread from there to at least four other towns. It was Congo's 16th outbreak of the disease since it was first reported in the country in 1976. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 47-points this morning from Friday's close, at 27,674 on turnover of 7.5-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher Friday, as positive investor sentiment carried over from the previous session amid hopes that the U-S Federal Reserve will cut key interest rates later this month. Taiwan's ambassador meets with new SVG leader Taiwan's ambassador to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has met with the newly elected prime minister of the Caribbean ally, Godwin Friday, to convey (傳達) congratulations from President Lai Ching-te. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Ambassador Fiona Fan delivered Lai's message during their meeting, and that the prime minister asked her to relay (傳達) his thanks in return. The ministry has not said when the meeting took place or provided any further details. However, the meeting took place as Friday's New Democratic Party has previously proposed switching recognition from Taiwan to Beijing. CAA confirms that local airlines have completed Airbus A320 software fix And, The Civil Aviation Administration has confirmed that local airlines completed the required software restoration on Airbus A320-series aircraft before a 7AM deadline on Sunday. The software restoration followed an emergency directive (指示) issued after a technical failure in the U-S. Airbus announced on Friday that around 6,000 A320-family jets worldwide must undergo software updates and may not be operated without the fix. The announcement come after reports of a flight-control system malfunction linked to solar flare interference. Honduras Presidential Vote Hondurans are voting to elect new president in a close race under shadow of Trump’s surprise intervention (干涉). AP correspondent Rica Ann Garcia reports Report: Global Arms Producers Saw Revenue Increase A new report says that the world’s biggest weapons-producing companies saw a 5.9% increase in revenue from sales of arms and military services last year as demand was fed by (由…供給/提供) the wars in Ukraine and Gaza as well as countries’ rising military spending. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute says today that the revenues of the 100 largest arms makers grew to $679 billion in 2024, the highest figure it has recorded. The bulk of the increase was down to companies based in Europe and the United States, but there were increases around the world — except in Asia and Oceania, where problems in the Chinese arms industry led to a slight fall. Italy Digital Copies of Masterpieces for Museum Funds Italian cultural officials are offering digital copies of Italian masterpieces as part of a new project to help museums raise money. The nonprofit Save the Artistic Heritage, with its technical partner Cinello, is behind this initiative. They provide digital projections of Italian masterpieces, complete with certificates of authenticity (真正的，真實性). Participating museums receive 50% of the profits. Over two years, Save the Artistic Heritage has contributed about $347-thousand US dollars to Italian museums. Each digital artwork is sold in a limited series of nine. The project aims to help museums access new income streams and expand globally, including plans for the United States. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 12-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,566 on turnover of $8-billion N-T. NIA to offer e-Gate access to New Zealand passport holders from tomorrow The National Immigration Agency says holders of New Zealand biometric passports will be able to access Taiwan's Automated Immigration Clearance e-Gate system from tomorrow. The move reciprocates New Zealand's decision to grant the same access to Taiwanese travelers on October 13. According to the immigration agency, eligible travelers from New Zealand will be able to use Taiwan's 121 installed e-Gates when entering the country for leisure (休閒), business or study. Travelers must also complete the online Taiwan Arrival Card before entry. The old paper arrival cards were abolished on October 1. Putin says Russia will stop fighting when Ukraine withdraws from Donbas Russian President Vladimir Putin said fighting in Ukraine will cease once the Ukrainian Army withdraws from the territories Moscow claims it now controls. Putin adds that Moscow is open to discussing some elements (要素，部分) of the U.S. plan to end the war in Ukraine, but more talks are needed. Daria Bondarchuk reports from Moscow. Israeli Forces Kill Palestinian Men Appearing to Surrender Israeli forces killed a pair of Palestinian men in the occupied West Bank after they appeared to surrender to troops, drawing Palestinian accusations that the men were executed “in cold blood.” The Israeli military said it was investigating. The killings, captured in a pair of videos shown on two Arab TV stations, came as Israel pressed ahead (推進、推動) with its latest offensive in the West Bank, where the army has stepped up its activities over the past two years. Israel says it is cracking down on militants. Palestinians and rights groups accuse Israel of using excessive force and say dozens of unarmed civilians have been killed. Canada Alberta to Build Pacific Coast Oil Pipeline Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and the premier of Canada’s oil rich province of Alberta have agreed to work toward building a pipeline to the Pacific Coast to diversify the country’s oil exports beyond the United States. The memorandum of understanding signed Thursday would also adjust an oil tanker ban off parts of the British Columbia coast if a pipeline comes to fruition (實現，完成). Carney’s support for it led to the resignation of one of his cabinet ministers. The minister said in a statement that the pipeline could cross the Great Bear Rainforest and that it would increase the risk of a tanker spill on the coast. But he said he understands why Canada needs to remain united and said he will stay on as a Liberal Member of Parliament. Carney has set a goal for Canada to double its non-U.S. exports in the next decade. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 107-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,517 on turnover of 8.3-billion N-T. The market gained solid ground once again on Wednesday - rising by nearly 500-points - after Wall Street surged overnight on hopes the U-S Federal Reserve will soon opt to cut interest rates. Lai unveils plan to budget NT$1.25 trillion to bolster defense President Lai Ching-te is proposing a 1.25-trillion N-T special defense budget to fund the construction of a multilayered T-Dome air defense network and strengthen Taiwan's overall defense posture over the next eight years. Speaking at the Presidential Office, Lai said the T-Dome will provide all altitude air defense, incorporate artificial intelligence to improve detection and decision-making and enhance Taiwan's ability to intercept (截距) threats to protect military assets, critical infrastructure and civilians. Lai also called on opposition lawmakers to support his plan saying the proposed military investment is "necessary" given the growing threat Taiwan was facing from China and he hopes opposition parties can support Taiwan's national security regardless of political stance (政治立場). Government to tighten cosmetics controls after Sudan dyes found in cosmetic products Health Minister Shih Chung-liang says the government plans to add Sudan dyes to its routine post-market inspections and tighten controls on cosmetic products. The statement comes after the banned colorants were detected for the first time in cosmetic (化妝品) items sold domestically. According to Shih, the health ministry will also fully implement mandatory Good Manufacturing Practice requirements for all cosmetics manufacturers starting from July 1 next year - which will strengthening oversight of production processes. The issue came to light after authorities traced problematic Chinese cosmetic products sold online and found that a local importer had sourced raw materials from Singapore that contained Sudan dyes. HK Fire Continues Burning Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in years is still burning. It has left at least 44 people dead and 279 reported missing with rescuers pulling residents from blazing (炙熱的，強烈的) high-rise apartment buildings into the morning. Police had arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with fire which began Wednesday afternoon in a housing complex in Tai Po district, a suburb in the New Territories. By this morning local time, the fire was yet to be put out and rescues continued with the death toll reaching 44. Hundreds of residents were evacuated as the fire spread across seven of the eight buildings in the complex. Authorities suspected some materials on the exterior walls of the high-rise buildings did not meet fire resistance standards, as the rapid spread of the fire was unusual. US Thanksgiving travel hit by winter storms In the United States Thanksgiving travelers are facing added delays (延誤) this year from winter storms and freezing weather. Millions are under weather alerts amid the country's busiest travel period. Nick Harper reports from Washington. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 151-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,063 on turnover of 6.5-billion N-T. The market moved sharply higher on Tuesday - adding just over 400-points - on the back of investor hopes that the U-S Federal Reserve will initiate more rate cuts next month and that led to a surge in interest for large cap semiconductor stocks. Panama lawmakers arrive in Taiwan despite reported China pressure A group of Panamanian lawmakers have arrived in Taiwan in apparent defiance of reported Chinese requests that they cancel the trip. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the nine-member delegation (代表團) will meet with Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu and attend a banquet hosted by Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung during their stay. An Associated Press report citing a Panamanian daily newspaper as saying Chinese embassy staff in Panama asked a total of 10 lawmakers to "immediately cancel" plans to visit Taiwan. The foreign ministry here is condemning (譴責) Beijing for trying to intervene in what it's calling Taiwan's "normal exchanges with other countries." Tropical storm forms over Philippine waters; no direct impact on Taiwan And, The Central Weather Administration says Tropical Storm Koto will not have a direct impact on Taiwan. The storm formed yesterday evening and is currently located west of the Philippines. Based on the weather administration's latest tracking chart, the storm will approach (逼近) the coast of Vietnam in the coming days before veering in a northerly direction towards China's Hainan Island on Saturday. Koto is the 27th tropical storm of this year Pacific typhoon season. Trump sending envoy Steve Witkoff to discuss possible Ukraine peace deal with Putin Donald Trump says he's sending his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff to Russia to meet with President Vladimir Putin - as he tries to finalize a Ukraine peace deal. The US president says he believes a deal is close, but that he won't personally (親自) meet with the leaders of Ukraine or Russia until the deal is final or in its final stages. Toni Waterman has more. Italy Approves Law Adding Femicide to Criminal Law Italy’s parliament has approved a law that introduces femicide (殺害女性) into the country’s criminal law and punishes it with life in prison. Tuesday's final vote saw bipartisan support. The law is backed by the conservative government of Premier Giorgia Meloni. It comes in response to a series of killings and other violence targeting women in Italy. Italy’s statistics agency recorded 106 femicides in 2024, with over half of them committed by partners (伴侶) or former partners. The law includes stronger measures against gender-based crimes including stalking and revenge porn. While the center-left opposition supported the law in parliament, it stressed that the government approach only tackles the criminal aspect of the problem while leaving economic and cultural divides unaddressed. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 491-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 26,995 on turnover of 9.8-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher on Monday, despite investors opting to dump large-cap tech stocks before regular index adjustments by M-S-C-I went into effect after the market closed. FM touts increase in US state engagement Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung is touting an increase in U-S state engagement in Taiwan. Speaking at reception hosted by the American State Offices Association in Taipei, Lin said there has been a significant increase in engagement from U-S state governments .. … as more representative offices are opening in Taiwan and a growing number of trade missions (貿易代表團) are visiting the country. According to Lin, there were currently 26 U-S state and territorial offices in Taiwan, over half of which opened or reopened in the last three years - while Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Idaho opened offices this year. The foreign minister says he believes the trend reflects the building momentum between Taiwan and American state governments. Dust storm in China to worsen Taiwan's air quality from today And, The Ministry of Environment says a dust storm in Inner Mongolia is expected to worsen Taiwan's air quality today and is advising the public to reduce (減少) outdoor activities and wear face masks. According to the ministry, pollutants carried from Inner Mongolia and the Shandong-Shanghai corridor by monsoon winds are expected to push PM2.5 readings in northern Taiwan to 30 to 50 micrograms per cubic meter this morning … …. rising to between 100 to 150 micrograms per cubic meter in the afternoon. The center and south are set to be affected from the afternoon through to the evening. The air quality is expected to improve to a "good" or "moderate" level by Saturday. China Warns Nationals in DRC China has urged its citizens living in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo to immediately leave due to the ongoing conflict in the region. Fighting between Congolese forces and rebels has intensified (加劇的) in the mineral-rich region where Chinese firms are engaged in mining rare earth minerals. Chris Ocamringa has more from Kinshasa… Sudan Rejects Mediators' Ceasefire Proposal Sudan’s top general has rejected a ceasefire proposal from U.S.-led mediators, calling it “the worst yet.” The proposal aimed to halt a devastating (毀滅性的) war that has gripped Sudan for over 30 months. General Abdel-Fattah Burhan accused the mediators of being “biased (有偏見的)”. Sudan plunged into chaos in April 2023 due to a power struggle between the military and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The conflict has killed at least 40,000 people and created a massive (大量的) humanitarian crisis. The mediators, known as the Quad, comprise the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE, and have been working for over two years to end the fighting. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 161-points this morning from Friday's close, at 26,596 on turnover of 7.2-billion N-T. The market took a hit Friday, falling almost 1,000 points after heavy losses on Wall Street overnight. National Archives draws nearly 10,000 visitors on opening day The National Archives officially opened this past weekend - drawing nearly 10,000 visitors on its first day. According to National Development Council Deputy Minister Peng Li-pei, the archives will follow the principle of "maximum openness, minimum restrictions" in promoting public access to records. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Peng said the archives is an important public infrastructure project that reflects the government's long-term efforts to preserve and make the nation's intellectual assets (資產) accessible. The archives began trial operations on September 2 and President Lai Ching-te presided over an opening ceremony on November 17. The N-D-C deputy minister says over 200,000 people have already visited the National Archives in New Taipei's Linkou District. Golfer Wu Chia-yen wins first JLPGA title Taiwan's Wu Chia-yen has won her first championship on the Japan Ladies Professional Golfers' Association tour at the DAIO PAPER elleair LADIES OPEN in Matsuyama. The 21-year-old lifted the trophy at Elleair Golf Club Matsuyama after finishing on a 15-under-par 269 for her first title since joining the J-L-P-G-A in 2024. Wu had a rough start, tying for 24th after the first round. However, she climbed steadily in the second and third rounds before closing Sunday's final round with five birdies and one bogey (柏忌). Wu has became the third Taiwan golfer to win the DAIO PAPER elleair LADIES OPEN. US Ukraine Discuss Peace Proposal Top U.S. and Ukrainian officials say they've made progress toward ending the Russia-Ukraine war. They discussed an American proposal for peace, which some European allies fear is too favorable (有利) to Moscow on Sunday in Geneva. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the talks as productive (富有成效的), but shared few details on what was discussed. He emphasized that the U.S. peace plan is a "living document" and that it would change. He also said any final agreement would need Russia's approval. The 28-point blueprint drawn up by the U.S. to end the nearly four-year war acquiesces to many Russian demands that Zelenskyy has categorically rejected on dozens of occasions, including giving up large pieces of territory. Mamdani stands by Trump criticism despite friendly White House meeting New York's Mayor-Elect Mamdani stands by his criticism of President Trump criticism despite (儘管;無論) a friendly White House meeting. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 633-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,213 on turnover of $10.4-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed lower Wednesday after giving up earlier gains, as investors stayed cautious ahead of an Nvidia Corp. investor conference and the release of meeting minutes by the U.S. Federal Reserve. Analysts say the bellwether electronics sector failed to stage a successful technical rebound as tech stocks saw their gains eroded amid lingering valuation concerns after recent strong gains among AI stocks. They say investors continued to pocket profits built recently for now with TSMC in focus. KMT, TPP leaders meet to discuss possible electoral collaboration The leaders of Taiwan's opposition KMT and TPP met Wednesday to discuss the prospects for collaboration (合作) in the 2026 local elections. Speaking during their public meeting in New Taipei, KMT Chairperson Cheng Li-wun told TPP Chairman Huang Kuo-chang that she hoped the parties' recent cooperation in the Legislature would deepen in the run-up to local elections. Cheng acknowledged "difficulties" in previous efforts toward a KMT-TPP alliance, but said that after meeting Huang, she felt strongly that they were on the same page. Huang, meanwhile, said he would direct the TPP's think tank to reach out to its KMT counterpart to discuss local governance and the parties' 2026 election goals. DRC Fighting Despite Peace Framework Signed Fighting has erupted (爆發了) in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo between the M23 rebels and a pro-government militia despite a recent framework for peace signed in Qatar. Chris Ocamringa has more from Kinshasa. Russian Attack on Ukrainian City Leaves Dozens Dead A Russian drone and missile attack on Ukraine's western city of Ternopil has killed at least 25 people, including three children. The attack hit two apartment blocks, injuring at least 73 people. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted most of the 476 drones and 48 missiles fired overnight. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in Turkey seeking diplomatic support against Russia. He met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Meanwhile, Romania and Poland scrambled (緊急起飛) fighter jets in response to the attacks. Russia claims the strikes targeted Ukrainian energy facilities and military-industrial targets in retaliation (報復) for Kyiv's actions. Brazil NPO: Crime Groups Expanding in Amazon A prominent nonprofit group in Brazil says that criminal gangs expanded their presence in the Brazilian Amazon last year and are now operating in nearly half of the region’s municipalities. The Brazilian Forum on Public Safety says the growth of these crime groups in the region, where U.N. climate talks are currently taking place, is driving violence and threatens the preservation of the world’s largest tropical rainforest. The nonprofit says organized crime groups are now active in 45-percent of over 770 municipalities. That’s a jump of 32% from last year’s report. The NPO says combating organized crime in the Amazon will require a focus on alternate ways of developing the region besides “predatory exploitation (剝削，開發利用) of resources.” That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. AI 不只是科技，更是投資的新藍海 您還沒上車嗎? 11/22下午二點，由ICRT與元大投信共同舉辦的免費講座 會中邀請理財專家阮幕驊和元大投顧分析師及專業團隊 帶你掌握「AI 投資機會」 加碼好康！ 只要「報名並親臨現場參加活動」 就有機會抽中 全家禮券200元，共計5名幸運得主！ 活動地點：台北文化大學APA藝文中心--數位演講廳（台北市中正區延平南路127號4樓） 免費入場，名額倒數中!! 立即報名：https://www.icrt.com.tw/app/2025yuanta/ 「投資一定有風險，基金投資有賺有賠，申購前應詳閱公開說明書」 #AI投資 #元大投信 #理財講座 #免費講座 #投資趨勢 #ETF -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 48-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 26,708 on turnover of $8.7-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan tumbled almost 700 points to close at the day's low Tuesday as sell-off was triggered by heavy losses on the U.S. markets overnight amid fears over the U.S. Federal Reserve's hawkish stance and stretched tech stocks. Contract chipmaker TSMC shed 2.77 percent to close at the day's low, contributing about 320 points to the Taiex's fall. Analysts say judging from yesterday's movement, many investors dumped their stocks in panic to stop losses, so selling was seen across the board, including nontech stocks. Shimen reaches 12.4 degrees The Central Weather Administration says, today's coldest temperature on the main island of Taiwan clocked in at 12.4 degrees in New Taipei's Shimen. They say, Taoyuan's Yangmei and Hsinchu's Guanxi registered similar temperatures this morning. Meanwhile, experts say that areas in the north and east as well as mountainous regions (山區) can expect some rain as well. They say, lowland areas can expect temperatures to get as low as 12-16 degrees today. And tomorrow, experts say temperatures early in the morning will be around the same for areas north of and including Miaoli… while there will still be rain possible along the Keelung North Coast, and in the northeast tomorrow. Also starting tomorrow, experts say, we can expect a slight rise in temperatures across the country. And starting Friday and moving into the weekend, we can expect slightly wetter conditions in the north and northeast. (AH) Trump: Saudi Prince "Knew Nothing" about Khashoggi murder US President Donald Trump has said Saudi Arabia's Crown PrinceMohammed bin Salman "knew nothing" about the 2018 killing of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi. He made the comments during an Oval Office meeting with the Kingdom's de facto ruler in stark (赤裸的，明顯的) contradiction (矛盾) to the finding of US intelligence. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Japan Fire Forces Evacuations Firefighters are battling a fire that has burned through a neighborhood in southwestern Japan and forced more than 170 people to evacuate. It started Tuesday evening and was still out of control this morning. Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency said at least 170 homes have been damaged and a man in his 70s was unaccounted for. The fire started near a fishing port in the city of Oita during strong winds and spread to a forest. Oita is on the southern island of Kyushu. Vatican Pope Backs US Bishops Condemning Immigration Crackdown Pope Leo XIV has strongly backed U.S. bishops who condemned the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. He urged the American people to listen to them and treat migrants humanely (善良地，人道地). As he left his country house Tuesday evening, Leo was asked about the “special message” the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops adopted during their assembly last week. The text criticized the Trump administration’s mass deportation of migrants and the “vilification” (誹謗，詆毀) of them in the current migration debate. Leo has previously urged local bishops to take the lead on speaking out on matters of social justice. He said he appreciated the U.S. bishops statement and urged all people of goodwill to listen to what they said. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. AI 不只是科技，更是投資的新藍海 您還沒上車嗎? 11/22下午二點，由ICRT與元大投信共同舉辦的免費講座 會中邀請理財專家阮幕驊和元大投顧分析師及專業團隊 帶你掌握「AI 投資機會」 加碼好康！ 只要「報名並親臨現場參加活動」 就有機會抽中 全家禮券200元，共計5名幸運得主！ 活動地點：台北文化大學APA藝文中心--數位演講廳（台北市中正區延平南路127號4樓） 免費入場，名額倒數中!! 立即報名：https://www.icrt.com.tw/app/2025yuanta/ 「投資一定有風險，基金投資有賺有賠，申購前應詳閱公開說明書」 #AI投資 #元大投信 #理財講座 #免費講座 #投資趨勢 #ETF -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 137-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,310 on turnover of $7.7-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan ended slightly higher Monday after profit-taking eroded most of the initial gains amid lingering concerns over stretched artificial intelligence stocks at home and abroad. Analysts say the market was initially led by the electronics sector as investors took cues from a rebound enjoyed by tech stocks on the U.S. markets on Friday. But this strength was compromised by the end of the session as many investors shifted to the sell side. MOFA names new ambassador to Palau The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has approved the appointment of Andy Chen as Taiwan's new ambassador to Palau. Chen has been the director general of the ministry's Office of Parliamentarian Affairs since February. He will replace sitting ambassador Jessica Lee, who'll be returning to the MOFA headquarters in Taipei. Chen previously (先前) served as Taiwan's representative to Oman and head of Taiwan's office in Vancouver, Brunei, and the Philippines. He received his bachelor's degree in Arabic Language and Culture from National Chengchi University. (AH) Bangladesh's former leader Sheikh Hasina sentenced to death In Bangladesh, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death by a special tribunal (特別法庭 ) that found her guilty of committing crimes against humanity. She was put on trial in absentia and was found guilty of overseeing a crackdown on protesters last July. According to a UN report 1400 people were killed during the demonstrations last year, most by security forces firing live ammunition. Hasina claims she's innocent. Neha Poonia has more. Canada Budget Vote Passes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney won a vote on his budget in Parliament that could have triggered (觸發) a possible election. Carney’s Liberal government does not have enough votes to pass the budget on its own but it passed 170-168 with the support of a Green Party member of Parliament and some New Democrat abstentions. The Liberals don’t have a majority of seats in the House of Commons and must rely on an opposition party to pass legislation. The budget vote is considered a vote of confidence in the minority Liberal government. Carney's Liberal Party scored a stunning comeback victory in an election last April in a vote widely seen as a rebuke of U.S. President Donald Trump. But the Liberals fell just short of winning an outright majority in Parliament. British Royal Mint Issues Freddie Mercury Coin Design Britain's Royal Mint is celebrating Freddie Mercury with a new coin design. The coin marks 40 years since his iconic Live Aid performance. It features an image of the Queen front man midperformance, with a musical stave (五線譜 ) representing his vocal range. Mercury’s sister struck the first coin at the Royal Mint in Wales last week. She said the coin captures his passion and joy. The coins go on sale Tuesday. Mercury died at age 45 in 1991, just one day after he publicly (公開地) announced he was HIV positive. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. AI 不只是科技，更是投資的新藍海 您還沒上車嗎? 11/22下午二點，由ICRT與元大投信共同舉辦的免費講座 會中邀請理財專家阮幕驊和元大投顧分析師及專業團隊 帶你掌握「AI 投資機會」 加碼好康！ 只要「報名並親臨現場參加活動」 就有機會抽中 全家禮券200元，共計5名幸運得主！ 活動地點：台北文化大學APA藝文中心--數位演講廳（台北市中正區延平南路127號4樓） 免費入場，名額倒數中!! 立即報名：https://www.icrt.com.tw/app/2025yuanta/ 「投資一定有風險，基金投資有賺有賠，申購前應詳閱公開說明書」 #AI投資 #元大投信 #理財講座 #免費講座 #投資趨勢 #ETF -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 203-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,601 on turnover of 10-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan shed more than 500 points Friday as a sell-off was sparked by a plunge on U.S. markets overnight amid renewed worries that the U.S. Federal Reserve has turned hawkish toward its rate-cut cycle. Analysts say the steep losses in the United States prompted investors here to pocket their recent significant gains, also taking cues from the heavy losses suffered by artificial intelligence stocks such as Nvidia on stretched tech stocks". NTU responds after 100s fall for fried chicken rumor National Taiwan University is urging the public to be vigilant about information they read online… after an anonymous social media user promised to hand out free fried chicken and boba tea. A post in an anonymous Facebook group earlier this month claimed that Taipei would announce school and work closures for Typhoon Fung-wong for at least two days between November 12th and 14th… promising to hand out free fried chicken and boba tea at NTU's Fu Bell if the days off do not occur (發生). Several hundred people lined up, with some getting there early in the morning. The university ultimately had to dispatch security guards to keep order near the bell until afternoon, when people seemed to realize they had been tricked. NTU says, it's not able to verify who made the post, but warned that they should consider the accuracy and impact of misinformation spead online, lest they face legal consequences. Finland President Calls for EU Steadiness for Ukraine Finland's president urges Europe to hold its nerve (保持鎮定，保持勇氣) as he warns no ceasefire likely soon in Ukraine. AP correspondent Karen Chammas reports Ecuador Announces Capture of Major Drug Trafficker Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has announced the capture of one of Ecuador’s most wanted drug traffickers. Wilmer Chavarria, known as “Pipo,” was caught in Malaga, Spain, on Sunday in a joint operation with Spanish police. He is believed to lead Los Lobos, a group linked to political assassinations (暗殺) and associated with Mexico’s Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Chavarria faked his death in 2021, moved to Spain, and continued his criminal activities. His capture coincides with Ecuadorians voting on a referendum about allowing foreign military bases to combat drug trafficking. Germany Holocaust Artifacts Auction Cancelled Poland's foreign minister says an auction of Holocaust artifacts in Germany has been canceled. He shared this information from his German counterpart after complaints from Holocaust survivors. The auction was set to include letters from concentration camp prisoners and other documents. A Holocaust survivors group had called for the cancellation, describing the auction as cynical (損人利己的) and shameless. The group emphasized that these documents belong to the victims' families and should be in museums, not sold for profit. The auction house has not responded to calls or emails about the cancellation. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. Subject: E*AI 不只是科技，更是投資的新藍海 Return to Table of contents 您還沒上車嗎? 11/22下午二點，由ICRT與元大投信共同舉辦的免費講座 會中邀請理財專家阮幕驊和元大投顧分析師及專業團隊 帶你掌握「AI 投資機會」 加碼好康！ 只要「報名並親臨現場參加活動」 就有機會抽中 全家禮券200元，共計5名幸運得主！ 活動地點：台北文化大學APA藝文中心--數位演講廳（台北市中正區延平南路127號4樓） 免費入場，名額倒數中!! 立即報名：https://www.icrt.com.tw/app/2025yuanta/ 「投資一定有風險，基金投資有賺有賠，申購前應詳閱公開說明書」 #AI投資 #元大投信 #理財講座 #免費講座 #投資趨勢 #ETF -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 87-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,816 on turnover of $7.7-billion N-T. Taiwan ranks top in Asia and 7th in world for internet freedom Taiwan has once again been rated the freest country in Asia for internet use and seventh globally in the latest Freedom on the Net report released the US-based Freedom House. The report assessed internet freedom in 72 countries between June 2024 and May 2025. It measures obstacles to access, restrictions on online content, and violations of users' rights. Taiwan had a score of 79 out of 100 and that was unchanged from last year, reaffirming (再次肯定或加強。) its status as one of the most open online environments in the world. Japan placed eighth with 78 points. The list was topped by Iceland with a score of 94 - while Estonia, Chile, Costa Rica and Canada rounded out the top five. China and Myanmar remained at the bottom of the list with scores of 9. Trump-Epstein relationship in spotlight ahead of key vote on files Donald Trump's relationship to late-sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is still under scrutiny ahead of key vote that could release more files. The House of Representatives is expected to vote to compel the Justice Department to release all the evidence (證據) it has, but the files may not see the light of day. As Nick Harper reports from Washington. Russia Launches Attack on Kyiv Russia has launched a massive attack on Kyiv, causing fires and scattering debris across the city. Local officials report at least 11 people were injured, with five hospitalized. The attack continues today, prompting officials to urge residents to stay in shelters. City authorities warned of possible power and water outages. The strike came as European Union officials warned this week that Ukraine must continue to crack down on corruption following a major graft scandal that has put top nuclear energy officials under scrutiny (受到審查). But they also offered assurances (保證) that aid will continue to flow as Kyiv strains to hold back Russia’s invasion. Borso D'Este Bible on Display in Italy One of the most spectacular examples of Renaissance illuminated manuscripts is going on rare public display as part of the Vatican’s Holy Year celebrations. The 15th century Borso D’Este Bible is known for its miniature paintings in gold and lapis lazuli (青金石). It was unveiled Thursday in the Italian Senate, where it will remain on display until Jan. 16. It is usually kept in a safe at a library in Modena and is rarely exhibited publicly; it was transported to Rome under heavy security. The Bible was created between 1455 and 1461. It will remain behind humidity-controlled plate glass while in Rome, but visitors can “read” it digitally via touch screen displays featuring ultra-high-resolution images. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. AI 不只是科技，更是投資的新藍海 ?? 您還沒上車嗎? 11/22下午二點，由ICRT與元大投信共同舉辦的免費講座 會中邀請理財專家阮幕驊和元大投顧分析師及專業團隊 帶你掌握「AI 投資機會」 加碼好康！ 只要「報名並親臨現場參加活動」 就有機會抽中 全家禮券200元，共計5名幸運得主！ 活動地點：台北文化大學APA藝文中心--數位演講廳（台北市中正區延平南路127號4樓） 免費入場，名額倒數中!! 立即報名：https://www.icrt.com.tw/app/2025yuanta/ 「投資一定有風險，基金投資有賺有賠，申購前應詳閱公開說明書」 #AI投資 #元大投信 #理財講座 #免費講座 #投資趨勢 #ETF -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 79-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,867 on turnover of 11-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Wednesday despite coming off the day's high on heavy technical pressure ahead of the 28,000 point mark as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing failed to sustain its initial gains. Taipei City Council approves terms of Nvidia land deal Taipei Deputy Mayor Lee Shu-chuan says the city council has approved the terms of a mutual termination (終止) agreement with Shin Kong Life Insurance that paves the way for the immediate return of a plot of city-owned land being eyed by Nvidia for its Taiwan headquarters. The deal includes a fee of about 4.4-billion N-T payable to Shin Kong Life by the city government. Transfer of the T-17 and T-18 plots at the Beitou-Shilin Technology Park is expected to be ratified (正式批准) by Shin Kong Life at a special board meeting later today. And the Taipei deputy mayor says that will then allow the city government and the insurer to sign the final contract tomorrow. Man who brought crocodile to Legislature to protest exotic pet ban fined And, The Taipei District Court has fined man who placed a live crocodile at the main entrance of the Legislative Yuan last month 10,000 N-T. The crocodile was left at the entrance in protest over a proposed ban on exotic pets on the morning of October 17. The man was quickly arrested by police and referred to prosecutors. He was fined for violating Article 70 of the Social Order Maintenance Act by allowing a dangerous animal to roam in public in the presence of other people. The court also ordered the seizure (查封，沒收) of his crocodile. The same man was arrested and fined 3,000 N-T in 2018 after bringing a crocodile to a protest at the Executive Yuan. US House Passes Bill to End Shutdown The US House has passed a bill to end the nation’s longest government shutdown. The vote today sends the measure to President Donald Trump for his signature after a historic 43-day funding lapse. The Senate has already passed the measure. Democrats wanted to extend an enhanced (提升，改善) tax credit that lowers the cost of health coverage obtained through Affordable Care Act marketplaces and refused to go along with a spending bill that did not include that priority. But Republicans said that was a separate policy fight to be held at another time. They eventually prevailed as the shutdown took an increasing toll on the country. COP30 Report Emissions Rising Still Scientists report that emissions from fossil fuels rose by 1.1% in 2025, marking the second consecutive year of a small increase. This was announced Wednesday at the United Nations climate negotiations near the Amazon. A second report by Climate Action Tracker says the world is on track for 2.6 degrees Celsius of warming, slightly down from last year's projections. The carbon project scientists projected that this year the burning of fossil fuels and making of cement (水泥) will have put another 38.1 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide in the air. That's the equivalent of nearly 1.2 million kilograms of heat-trapping gas going into the air every second. The scientists say one bright point is that 35 countries cut their fossil fuel emissions from last year and were still thriving economically. But at the same time the United States, which used to be cutting fossil fuel carbon dioxide emissions, spewed 2% more pollution this year compared with last year. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. AI 不只是科技，更是投資的新藍海 ?? 您還沒上車嗎? 11/22下午二點，由ICRT與元大投信共同舉辦的免費講座 會中邀請理財專家阮幕驊和元大投顧分析師及專業團隊 帶你掌握「AI 投資機會」 加碼好康！ 只要「報名並親臨現場參加活動」 就有機會抽中 全家禮券200元，共計5名幸運得主！ 活動地點：台北文化大學APA藝文中心--數位演講廳（台北市中正區延平南路127號4樓） 免費入場，名額倒數中!! 立即報名：https://www.icrt.com.tw/app/2025yuanta/ 「投資一定有風險，基金投資有賺有賠，申購前應詳閱公開說明書」 #AI投資 #元大投信 #理財講座 #免費講座 #投資趨勢 #ETF -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tropical Storm FungWong Storm Circle Continues Shrinking The Central Weather Administration says Tropical Storm Fung-wong is continuing to weaken, with its storm circle shrinking. As a result, Yunlin County and Penghu are no longer included in the Land Warning area. Forecasters believe the system may weaken into a tropical depression sooner than previously expected. As of 9 a.m. today, the center was located about 140 kilometers west-southwest of Eluanbi, at the island's southermost tip. It was moving in an east-northeasterly direction at speeds between 16 and 32 kilometers per hour. The storm is packing sustained wind speeds of 72 kilometers per hour and gusts of up to 101 kilometers per hour. The storm circle, with a radius of 150 kilometers, has entered the southern part of Taiwan. The CWA's land warning remains in effect for Pingtung,Chiayi,Tainan,Kaohsiung,Nantou,Hualien,Taitung , and theHengchun Peninsula. Forecasters note that satellite imagery shows the storm's structure has deteriorated, with the upper and lower centers separating. Fung-wong is still expected to move northeast and potentially make landfall on the Hengchun Peninsula this evening. (NS) Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 69-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,853 on turnover of $8.9-billion N-T. The market ground on Tuesday after Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing gave up its early gains to end the trading lower. The market rose to the day's high within 10 minutes of opening on buying sparked by a rally on Wall Street overnight led by tech heavyweights, but selling quickly emerged (出現了) - with large cap tech stocks, including T-S-M-C, in focus. Pakistan Bombing Leaves 12 Dead A suicide bombing in the Pakistani capital of Islamabad has killed at least 12 people, and injured (受傷) another 30. The blast happened near the entrance of the city's district court. The Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has blamed India for the attack. Hira Mustafa sent this report from the blast site in Islamabad. EU India Navies Take Over Pirates Ship The European Union and Indian navies have taken over a ship used by pirates off the coast of Somalia to seize a Malta-flagged tanker. The Iranian fishing vessel was used as a “mother ship” for the attacks. A team from the Spanish frigate ESPS Victoria boarded the the vessel and found the original crew safe. The EU naval force says piracy in the area has been disrupted (被擾亂的). Somali pirate attacks have increased over the last year, partly due to instability caused by attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Red Sea corridor. Blue Diamond Auctioned for Over 25Million A blue diamond weighing nearly 10 carats has sold at auction in Switzerland for $25.6 million including fees. The “Mellon Blue” is named for the late American arts patron Rachel “Bunny” Mellon. The "Fancy Vivid Blue and Internally Flawless" stone had been expected to fetch $20-$30 million at the Christie’s auction on Tuesday. Some experts say the price of the gem was weighed down by a broader market mood, with geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty keeping many buyers away. Christie’s says its highest price for a vivid (鮮豔的) blue diamond was set in Geneva in 2016 when the 14.62-carat Oppenheimer Blue sold for more than $57 million. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. AI 不只是科技，更是投資的新藍海 ?? 您還沒上車嗎? 11/22下午二點，由ICRT與元大投信共同舉辦的免費講座 會中邀請理財專家阮幕驊和元大投顧分析師及專業團隊 帶你掌握「AI 投資機會」 加碼好康！ 只要「報名並親臨現場參加活動」 就有機會抽中 全家禮券200元，共計5名幸運得主！ 活動地點：台北文化大學APA藝文中心--數位演講廳（台北市中正區延平南路127號4樓） 免費入場，名額倒數中!! 立即報名：https://www.icrt.com.tw/app/2025yuanta/ 「投資一定有風險，基金投資有賺有賠，申購前應詳閱公開說明書」 #AI投資 #元大投信 #理財講座 #免費講座 #投資趨勢 #ETF -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. CWA Forecasts Heavy Rainfall with Land and Sea Warnings for TyphoonFung-Wong The Central Weather Administration is warning of significant rainfall, after both land and sea warnings were issued for Typhoon Fung-Wong. The CWA warns that the interaction between the typhoon's outer bands and a northeast monsoon will significantly intensify rainfall. Officials say rainfall will be persistent (持續的) and heavy in the mountainous areas of greater Taipei, eastern Taiwan, and the Hengchun Peninsula. Residents are urged to avoid mountain areas due to the risk of landslides, falling rocks, and surging rivers. And strong winds and high waves are expected along coastal areas, with waves possibly reach three to five meters, or more in southern and southeastern areas. The public is advised to avoid coastal activities as much as possible. The land warning currently covers Tainan, Kaohsiung, Pingtung, Taitung, and the Hengchun Peninsula. The storm is currently located some 360-kilometers southwest of Eluanbi at the island's southern most tip and is moving in a north-northeasterly direction at 12-kilometers-an-hour. The storm has a radius of 230-kilometers and is packing sustained wind speeds of 108-kilometers-an-hour, with gust of up to 113-kilometers-an-hour. The typhoon is expected to come closest to Taiwan between tomorrow afternoon and evening, before moving out to sea east of Taiwan early Thursday morning. Belarus Threatens to Seize Trucks After Lithuania Border Closing Belarus’ authoritarian leader is threatening to seize over 1,000 Lithuanian trucks stranded (被困住) in the country following the closure of its border with Lithuania after repeated incursions (侵入) by air balloons carrying smuggled cigarettes. Lithuania, a NATO and European Union member, closed the two border crossings with Belarus on Oct. 29 after weather balloons flying from Belarus caused repeated disruption ( 干擾、中斷) of air traffic at the Lithuanian capital’s airport. The border will remain closed until at least the end of this month. Lithuanian officials cast the balloon disruption as part of anti-Western activities by Russia-allied Belarus intended to undermine stability. Lithuania borders Belarus as well as Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave. India Police Investigating Delhi Blast The death toll from a blast in New Delhi has reached eight, with 20 people injured. Police are investigating what caused the blast, which took place late on Monday, in a crowded market very close to the iconic (非常出名的，標誌性的) Red Fort. Neha Poonia has more. IMO Pushes for Less Fossil Fuels in Shipping The head of the International Maritime Organization says he’s continuing to “advocate and campaign” for global regulations to move the shipping industry away from fossil fuels, after the United States and Saudi Arabia blocked new rules last month. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez spoke at one of the first side events at the U.N. climate negotiations that began Monday on the edge of the Brazilian Amazon. The event was held to discuss the shipping industry’s efforts to slash carbon pollution by transitioning (轉變) away from fossil fuels. Maritime nations were set to adopt the first global carbon fee on shipping last month at the IMO. Delegates decided to postpone the decision by a year and adjourn. Dominguez says the work continues. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. AI 不只是科技，更是投資的新藍海 ?? 您還沒上車嗎? 11/22下午二點，由ICRT與元大投信共同舉辦的免費講座 會中邀請理財專家阮幕驊和元大投顧分析師及專業團隊 帶你掌握「AI 投資機會」 加碼好康！ 只要「報名並親臨現場參加活動」 就有機會抽中 全家禮券200元，共計5名幸運得主！ 活動地點：台北文化大學APA藝文中心--數位演講廳（台北市中正區延平南路127號4樓） 免費入場，名額倒數中!! 立即報名：https://www.icrt.com.tw/app/2025yuanta/ 「投資一定有風險，基金投資有賺有賠，申購前應詳閱公開說明書」 #AI投資 #元大投信 #理財講座 #免費講座 #投資趨勢 #ETF -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 154 -points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,805 on turnover of 7.4-billion N-T. The market closed lower Friday as investors took cue from losses on Wall Street overnight amid concerns over America's job market after the latest large layoffs and overvalued artificial intelligence stocks. The decline saw the main board dipping below the nearest technical support at 27,717 - which is the 20-day moving average. CWA to issued seas warning for Typhoon Fung-Wong this afternoon The Central Weather Administration is expected to issue a sea warning for Typhoon Fung-wong this afternoon after is crosses the Philippine island of Luzon. The storm entered the South China Sea earlier this morning after passing through Luzon, and could potentially veer (轉向) in a northerly direction toward Taiwan. It if does veer north, the weather administration's forecast center says current data shows the eye of the storm will likely made landfall in Taiwan between Wednesday evening and early Thursday morning. According to the forecast center, it remains too early to say the exact location of landfall, but the center and south have a higher probability, but areas including Taoyuan, Hsinchu and Miaoli County cannot be ruled out. Fung-wong is currently located some 500-kilometers south of Eluanbi at Taiwan's southern most tip and is moving in a northwesterly direction at 19-kilometers-an-hour. The storm has a radius of 250-kilometers and is packing sustained wind speeds of 144-kilometers-an-hour, with gust of up to 180-kilometers-an-hour. Typhoon Fung-Wong is forecast to bring heavy or torrential rain and strong winds to northern and eastern parts of Taiwan this week. The weather administration is expected to issue a land warning tomorrow. Israel confirms release of soldier killed in 2014 Israel is confirming that it has received the remains of a soldier killed in Gaza in 2014. That's after Hamas turned over the body of Hadar Goldin. Mimmi Montgomery has the details Israel recovered the remains of another soldier killed in 2014, Oron Shaul, earlier this year. The remains of four hostages taken in the Oct. 7, 2023 attack that sparked (激發了) the current war are still in Gaza. Mexico Deploys More Troops to Michoacan Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced the deployment of more troops to Michoacan to address ongoing violence. This decision follows the assassination of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Alberto Manzo, which sparked protests across the state. Nearly 1,000 additional troops are set to arrive, bringing the total federal forces in Michoacan to over 10-thousand. The government plans to invest over $3 billion in the state, much of it in existing federal social programs. On the security side, Sheinbaum's administration is focusing intelligence gathering and investigations against organized crime. Sheinbaum has pledged to keep Michoacan's security issues on the national agenda, emphasizing (強調) support for its residents. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. AI 投資免費講座 AI 不只是科技，更是投資的新藍海 ?? 您還沒上車嗎? 11/22下午二點，由ICRT與元大投信共同舉辦的免費講座 會中邀請理財專家阮慕驊和元大投顧分析師, 帶你掌握「AI 投資機會」 加碼好康！ 只要「報名並親臨現場參加活動」 就有機會抽中 全家禮券200元，共計5名幸運得主！ 活動地點：台北文化大學APA藝文中心--數位演講廳（台北市中正區延平南路127號4樓） 免費入場，名額倒數中!! 立即報名：https://www.icrt.com.tw/app/2025yuanta/ 「投資一定有風險，基金投資有賺有賠，申購前應詳閱公開說明書」 #AI投資 #元大投信 #理財講座 #免費講座 #投資趨勢 #ETF -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 81-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,818 on turnover of $6.6-billion N-T. The market rebounded on Thursday, after Wall Street ended in positive territory overnight on the back of upbeat economic updates and a steady flow of quarterly reports from U-S companies, which helped counter worries over an A-I bubble. Bag of cash left in train station bathroom leads police to bust fraud ring The Railway Police Bureau says it has arrested 11 suspects suspected of operating a fraud ring after discovering they'd being using a train station public toilet as a hand-off point for illicit cash. According to the bureau, the investigation began after a passenger found a bag containing 1-million N-T cash in a men's bathroom stall at Changhua's Yuanlin Station. Police say a man later appeared at the station claiming he had left his bag in the bathroom. He was questioned, failed to account for where the money came from and was arrested on the spot after authorities concluded the cash was illegally obtained (獲得) via fraud. Police later used surveillance video footage to track the man's movements and identified the organization's leader - who was later arrested at Taoyuan International Airport while attempting to leave Taiwan. The suspects are believed to have defrauded multiple victims of over 10 million N-T. Trump seeks mineral deals with Central Asian nations US President Donald Trump is welcoming the leaders of five Central Asian countries to the White House, as he looks to strengthen relations with the region and secure mineral deals. The US is trying to counter (對抗) the strong ties that Russia and China enjoys with the five nations: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan Nick Harper reports from Washington. UN lifts Syria sanctions The U.N. Security Council has voted to lift a series of sanctions on Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and members of his government days before he's set to arrive in the U.S. for a historic visit to the White House. The U.S. resolution to drop U.N. sanctions tied to al-Sharaa and Syria’s interior minister, Anas Hasan Khattab, passed with 14 members in support. China abstained (棄權) from the vote. American officials pushed to pass the resolution before Monday, when President Donald Trump is expected to host al-Sharaa in the first visit by a Syrian president to Washington since the country gained independence in 1946. Peru Declares Claudia Sheinbaum Peru’s Congress has declared Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum persona non grata. The announcement follows Mexico's decision to grant asylum to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chavez. Peruvian officials have accused Mexico of interfering (幹擾) in their internal affairs. On Monday, Peru’s interim President Jose Jeri severed diplomatic relations with Mexico over the asylum decision. Chavez is being prosecuted for her role in the attempted dissolution of Congress in 2022. Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has called Peru’s decision excessive and maintains that granting asylum is consistent with international law. Peru is analyzing a legal response while Chavez remains in the Mexican diplomatic residence. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. AI 投資免費講座 AI 不只是科技，更是投資的新藍海 ?? 您還沒上車嗎? 11/22下午二點，由ICRT與元大投信共同舉辦的免費講座 會中邀請理財專家阮慕驊和元大投顧分析師, 帶你掌握「AI 投資機會」 加碼好康！ 只要「報名並親臨現場參加活動」 就有機會抽中 全家禮券200元，共計5名幸運得主！ 活動地點：台北文化大學APA藝文中心--數位演講廳（台北市中正區延平南路127號4樓） 免費入場，名額倒數中!! 立即報名：https://www.icrt.com.tw/app/2025yuanta/ 「投資一定有風險，基金投資有賺有賠，申購前應詳閱公開說明書」 #AI投資 #元大投信 #理財講座 #免費講座 #投資趨勢 #ETF -- Hosting provided by SoundOn