AI & Semiconductors: Taiwan stocks hit the day’s high as investors chased AI-linked names, with TSMC up 1.05% to NT$2,400 and Nanya jumping 7.46%, while global sentiment improved on a US-Iran peace deal. Global Markets: Asian shares mostly rose after oil slid on hopes for Strait of Hormuz reopening, though uncertainty remains as negotiations continue. Critical Minerals: G7 leaders at Evian pushed a plan to reduce China’s grip on rare earths and critical inputs, with proposals for shared processing, exploration funding, and coordinated stockpiling. Cybersecurity: ESET flagged new Windows variants of the SprySOCKS backdoor, with activity tied to government targets including Taiwan. Data Centers & Power: AmCham Taiwan warned energy security and resilience are now national-security issues as AI drives electricity demand. Airport Automation: Taoyuan’s Terminal 3 is on track for end-2027 completion, adding self-service check-in and automated baggage handling for 45 million more passengers a year. Defense & Tech Cooperation: Taiwan’s AIDC signed an MoU with a French UAS supplier to expand drone capabilities, while Japan will join Philippines-US parachute drills near Batanes, underscoring tightening regional security ties. Environment & Compliance: The Legislative Yuan passed tougher penalties for illegal industrial waste dumping and added monitoring tools and recycling-plan requirements for end-of-life renewable-energy equipment. Corporate/Deal Watch: Dimerix licensed DMX-200 commercialization rights across Greater China, Taiwan and parts of Southeast Asia to Everest Medicines, with upfront and milestone payments plus royalties.