Tuesday briefing: What you need to know about Taiwan tonight

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As Taiwan braces for another cold snap, significant developments unfold across the island on Tuesday (Jan. 14), from Nvidia's strategic moves to Tigerair Taiwan's reward of employees. The tech giant's headquarters site selection has sparked a competitive spirit among cities, while Tigerair's record bonuses highlight its robust post-pandemic recovery. Meanwhile, Penghu County's red envelope initiative ensures seniors enjoy a warm Lunar New Year, and Taiwan's legislators gear up for intense budget talks. Here are the five news stories you need to know tonight:

Taiwan Sees Brief Warm-Up Before New Cold Front Hits

Taiwan experienced a brief respite from chilly weather on Tuesday before another cold front arrives, according to meteorological forecasts. The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 氣象署) warned residents of colder temperatures and potential snow in northern and central mountains over 3,000 meters starting Wednesday. They also advised caution for drivers about icy roads and emphasized staying warm and ensuring proper ventilation with heaters and appliances.

As the cold front lingers until early Friday, temperatures are expected to stay low, with highs of 16-18 degrees Celsius in northern and eastern Taiwan. The CWA reminded the public of flu season, urging good hygiene and rest for those feeling unwell. Farmers and aquaculture operators have been advised to take precautions against potential cold damage, as the Ministry of the Interior's National Fire Agency reported numerous cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest related to the cold.

Jensen Huang Arrives in Taiwan Amid Islandwide Expectations on Nvidia's New HQ
Jensen Huang (黃仁勳), CEO of NVIDIA (輝達), arrived in Taiwan earlier that day to meet with key suppliers ahead of the Lunar New Year. His visit, amid recent U.S. AI chip export controls, underscores Taiwan's pivotal role in the global supply chain. Huang's meetings are expected to focus on the mass production of upcoming AI servers and Nvidia's new graphics cards unveiled at CES 2025.

Nvidia's plans to establish its Asian headquarters in Taipei have generated interest, with multiple cities competing for the investment. Economic Minister J.W. Kuo (郭智輝) disclosed that sites need to meet specific criteria, including ample land and infrastructure. Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung and Taichung are actively courting Nvidia, underscoring their commitment to the AI industry. The decision could significantly impact the region's technological landscape.

Tigerair Taiwan Awards Record Bonuses to Employees
Tigerair Taiwan (台灣虎航) celebrated its employees with a record year-end bonus and salary raise on Tuesday following a board meeting. Employees received an average bonus of 12.8 months' salary, setting a new standard in the aviation industry. The airline attributed its success to the dedication of its workforce, marking a profitable post-border reopening period.

This generous compensation package underscores Tigerair Taiwan's commitment to rewarding its team for hard work. Over the past two years, employees have received nearly 23.6 months' salary in bonuses, reflecting the company's dedication to shared success. The airline looks forward to sustaining its growth trajectory and achieving new heights in the coming year.

Taiwan Legislators Prepare for Budget Talks Marathon
Taiwan's legislators are preparing for a marathon session to negotiate the central government's 2025 budget starting Wednesday. With the Legislative Yuan's session nearing its end, the opposition and ruling parties have submitted numerous budget amendment proposals, setting the stage for an intense negotiation process.

The KMT has criticized government media promotion expenses, while the DPP has blamed previous delays for the compressed schedule. To expedite talks, the DPP has advised against proposing new budget cuts unless necessary. The situation highlights the complex fiscal planning landscape as Taiwan's political parties navigate tight deadlines.

Penghu County Starts Red Envelope Distribution for Seniors
In the meantime, Penghu County (澎湖縣) began distributing Lunar New Year red envelopes to seniors on Tuesday, providing NT$5,000 to eligible residents. This initiative targets 20,400 seniors, enhancing their well-being and holiday spirit. Magistrate Chen Kuang-fu (陳光復) emphasized the county's commitment to its elderly citizens, with the total distribution surpassing NT$100 million.

The social affairs department clarified eligibility criteria, ensuring timely distribution across the county. The initiative reflects Penghu's broader commitment to supporting its senior population during the festive season. Residents on remote islands received their payments in advance, with neighborhood representatives facilitating the process until March 13.