TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's stock market surged on Thursday (Jan. 16) as investors responded to a robust performance on Wall Street. The Taiwan Stock Exchange opened at 22,817.52 points, climbing 302.95 points, or 1.35%, in early trading. TSMC (台積電) led the charge, increasing NT$35 to break the NT$1,100 barrier at one point, pushing the index over the 23,000-point mark.
Hon Hai (鴻海) also gained NT$4 to reach NT$175, while Quanta Computer (廣達) added NT$7 to NT$267. Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation (陽明海運) saw a slight decrease of NT$0.1, closing at NT$70.8. Yuanta Taiwan Value High Dividend ETF (元大台灣價值高息) edged up NT$0.08 to NT$9.2.
Analysts attributed the positive momentum to Wall Street's strong performance and expectations of a possible Fed interest rate cut. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 703.27 points, or 1.65%, closing at 43,221.55. The S&P 500 increased 107 points, or 1.83%, to 5,949.91, while the Nasdaq soared 466.84 points, or 2.45%, to 19,511.23. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index also climbed 107.72 points, or 2.13%, ending at 5,153.67.
The latest U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report showed core inflation easing from 3.3% in November to 3.2% in December. Fed officials noted ongoing inflation relief but highlighted uncertainties with the upcoming Trump administration's policies. Investors will continue monitoring these developments closely.
