Taiwan

House passes $95 billion Ukraine, Israel aid package, sends to Senate

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House passes $95 billion Ukraine, Israel aid package, sends to Senate

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a billion legislative package providing security assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan with bipartisan support. The bill now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to be considered next week. The legislation includes funding for conflict in Ukraine, humanitarian needs in Israel, and support for Taiwan. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed gratitude for the aid, stating it will prevent the war from expanding and save lives. President Biden urged Congress to approve the aid, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Despite some opposition, the bill passed with strong support.

Airlines scramble to change routes after Israeli attack on Iran

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Airlines scramble to change routes after Israeli attack on Iran

Fact: Airlines quickly changed flight paths over Iran, diverted to alternate airports, or returned planes to their departure points in response to airspace and airport closures after an Israeli attack on Iran.

US trade chief Tai says taking ‘serious look’ at tools to deal with China

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US trade chief Tai says taking ‘serious look’ at tools to deal with China

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai will inform lawmakers that the Biden administration is reviewing U.S. trade defense tools to address threats from China’s trade policies, including a review of tariffs on Chinese imports. The administration is also focusing on reducing dependence on China in supply chains and prioritizing labor standards in trade negotiations.

Intel slides as foundry business loss spotlights wide gap with rival TSMC

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Intel slides as foundry business loss spotlights wide gap with rival TSMC

Intel shares fell 5% as the company’s contract chip-making business reported operating losses of billion in 2023. Intel is investing billions to regain its position as a leading chipmaker, but it may take years to catch up with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Intel plans to break even in its contract chip-making business by 2027 and expects a gross margin of 40% by 2030, still trailing TSMC’s 53% margin.

Why maintaining ASML equipment is the new front in US-China chip war

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Why maintaining ASML equipment is the new front in US-China chip war

The U.S. government is urging allies to prevent computer chip manufacturing equipment companies, such as ASML of the Netherlands, from maintaining tools sold in China to hinder China’s ability to produce advanced computer chips. ASML’s lithography tools are crucial in chipmaking, and denying maintenance could halt chip production in Chinese plants. The Dutch government, a U.S. ally, may deny export licenses for maintenance in some cases but aims to avoid harming ASML or its relations with China. ASML sold a significant amount of equipment to Chinese customers, but its best tools are not sold there. ASML has export licenses to service Chinese customers until the end of the year. If Chinese chipmakers lose maintenance support for ASML equipment, they may face challenges in operating optimally without software updates and specialized parts. ASML’s consequences may be minor initially, but Chinese chipmakers may seek alternatives to using ASML equipment in the future.

Taiwan hit by strongest quake in 25 years, four deaths reported

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Taiwan hit by strongest quake in 25 years, four deaths reported

Fact: A 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit Taiwan, killing four people, injuring dozens, and causing a tsunami warning for southern Japan and the Philippines.