Taiwan's Market Cap Overtakes UK's – April 16, 2026
Taiwan's chip champion TSMC beats earnings expectations, with first-quarter profits soaring 58% year on year, overtaking the UK. Taipei responds to the US's Section 301 forced labor investigations, seeking to defend its tariff and investment deal signed with Washington earlier this year. And the 2026 general budget finally moves forward in the legislature, but Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's US$40 billion special defense budget remains held up in debate. Plus: - A group of visiting Nigerian journalists meet with Taiwan's local media professionals to talk misinformation and scams at the invitation of the foreign ministry. - Tensions are rising between Manila and Beijing as the Philippines, the US and other countries prepare to launch the joint Balikatan military drills. - Throngs of faithful follow the sea goddess Mazu on the annual Baishatun pilgrimage, seeking blessings and answered prayers at one of Taiwan's most important religious events.
