Semiconductor Momentum: TSMC’s August revenue jumped 53.3% to a record NT$514.81 billion, underscoring how AI demand is still outpacing supply and keeping Taiwan at the center of global chip expansion. AI Investing Caution: Morningstar warns that “diversified” emerging markets funds and value ETFs have quietly turned into AI bets as semiconductor exposure rises. High-NA EUV Ecosystem: ASML and TSMC are pushing a 12-inch photomask pilot line by 2031 and aim to be ready for advanced-node production by 2033, targeting higher fab productivity for AI-era chips. Memory Labor Deal: Micron says Taiwan workers will receive bonuses worth up to 68 months of pay after strike threats, aiming to stabilize labor relations at its key Taoyuan and Taichung sites. Tax Relief & Market Boost: President Lai promulgated income tax relief for families with children, while tax revenue surged as a stock-market boom lifted securities transaction taxes. Food Safety: Taipei’s education authorities terminated contracts with a school lunch caterer after suspected food poisoning sickened dozens of students. Cross-Strait Travel Risk: Taiwan is drafting guidance for trips to China as Beijing prepares new border rules that could include inspections of mobile devices. Geopolitical Friction: Taiwan also raised concerns after Russia screened a Soviet-era film in Taipei that Japan says fuels anti-Japan narratives. Drone Industry Funding: Taiwan’s premier countersigned an opposition-led drone budget bill, with officials citing national security and pushing “non-red” supply chains.