TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s stock market ended higher on Friday, supported by gains in shipping and financial shares, which helped offset a mixed performance in the technology sector.
The Taiwan Stock Exchange Capitalization Weighted Stock Index, or TAIEX, rose 113.44 points to close at 21,843.69. Turnover totaled NT$343 billion (US$11.4 billion), according to CNA and CTEE.
TSMC edged up 0.5% to NT$998. MediaTek slipped 0.36% to NT$1,365, while Foxconn fell 0.94% to NT$158.
Several suppliers in TSMC’s supply chain recorded gains. Grand Process Technology hit the daily limit, while Yeedex Electronic advanced 9%.
Shipping stocks led the day’s rally following a May 14 announcement from the Mediterranean Shipping Company, the world’s largest container carrier. The company said it would raise freight rates amid rising demand and limited vessel space.
Wan Hai Lines reached the daily trading limit with volume exceeding 140,000 shares. Yang Ming Marine Transport and Evergreen Marine both advanced more than 5%, with Yang Ming reporting over 230,000 shares traded.
Bulk shipping companies followed a similar trend. Chinese Maritime Transport hit the daily limit, while Franbo Lines, U-Ming Marine Transport, and First Steamship each gained between 6% and 8%.
Airline stocks moved slightly higher, with China Airlines and Eva Air both posting marginal increases.
Shares of Egis Technology and its related companies rose after its silicon intellectual property subsidiary joined Samsung’s SAFE IP program. Egistec, Algotek, and Alcor Micro all closed at their respective daily limits.
Silicon IP refers to pre-designed modules that serve as foundational components in semiconductor design, enabling chipmakers to streamline development. Samsung’s SAFE IP Alliance works with IP providers to offer validated solutions for mobile, AI, high-performance computing, and automotive applications.
Speculation that Nvidia may establish operations in Taipei, possibly in the T17 or T18 buildings at the Beitou Shilin Science and Technology Park, supported buying interest in locally based companies. Shihlin Electric & Engineering, Shihlin Paper, and Shinkong Textile all closed at the daily limit, although Nvidia has not confirmed the reports.
Looking ahead, Taishin 2000 High Technology Equity Fund Manager Shen Chien-hung (沈建宏) said investors will be watching developments in US trade negotiations during the current 90-day buffer period, the US Federal Reserve’s evolving stance on interest rate cuts, and upcoming earnings calls and shareholder meetings.
Shen also highlighted ongoing uncertainty around US policy direction and recommended close monitoring of margin financing levels and foreign short positions. Shen added that demand for AI-related technologies will likely keep technology shares in a leading position.
This information is not intended as personalized financial advice. Investors are encouraged to conduct their own research and analysis before making investment decisions.
