TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s stock market ended lower Thursday as early gains faded, with investors showing reduced interest in electronics.
The Taiwan Stock Exchange Capitalization Weighted Stock Index, or TAIEX, slipped 52.62 points to close at 21,730.25. Turnover totaled NT$341 billion (US$11.3 billion), according to CNA and CTEE.
Although the index filled the early-April gap earlier this week, it struggled to sustain momentum as the Taiwan dollar strengthened. This led to a rotation of funds from electronics into shipping, finance, and robotics sectors.
Robotics is a mix of both of electronics and mechanics. While electronic components like sensors, processors, and control systems are crucial, robots also rely on mechanical parts, software, hydraulics, pneumatics, and other non-electronic elements for their functionality.
TSMC retreated 0.6% to NT$993 after giving up early gains, while Foxconn declined 2.15% to NT$159.5 following a downward revision of its full-year outlook. MediaTek rose 0.74% to NT$1,370.
Several TSMC-related shares that rallied on Wednesday pulled back, with a few exceptions such as United Integrated Services. The company hit the daily price limit of NT$509 after reporting a 56.2% year-on-year increase in first-quarter net profit to NT$2 billion.
Shipping stocks continued their recovery, supported by renewed rush orders amid a temporary pause in tariff escalations between the US and China. Container shippers Wan Hai Lines, Evergreen Marine, and Yang Ming Marine Transport all closed with gains.
With Computex 2025 scheduled for May 20–23 in Taipei, robotics-related stocks attracted renewed interest. Solomon Technology climbed 5.71% to NT$148, Nexcom International increased 5.24% to NT$82.3, and Synpower reached its daily limit.
Nvidia’s recent announcement to supply its latest AI chips to Saudi company Humain also boosted Taiwan’s related stocks. Mitac Holdings gained 7.52% on heavy volume, while Sun Max closed at its daily price limit.
Additionally, Super Micro Computer secured a separate US$20 billion deal with Saudi Arabia’s DataVolt, bringing attention to its Taiwan suppliers. Nan Juen International, Wiwynn, Gold Circuit Electronics, Quanta Computer, and Argosy Research posted modest advances.
The recent rally has resembled a “forced march,” said President Capital Management Chair Li Fang-kuo (黎方國). He described Thursday’s slight decline as a healthy short-term pause as some investors take their profits.
Looking ahead, Li remains optimistic about tech stocks. He expects the TAIEX to challenge its annual moving average near 22,296 points during the upcoming Computex event.
Computex 2025 will be held at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center under the theme “AI Next.” The event will feature 1,400 exhibitors highlighting advances in AI computing, smart mobility, advanced connectivity, and sustainable technology.
This information is not intended as personalized financial advice. Investors are encouraged to conduct their own research and analysis before making investment decisions.
