TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Most Taiwanese expect no change in their pay over the next six months despite an upcoming minimum wage increase next year, according to a Cathay Financial Holdings survey published Thursday.

When asked whether employers would raise wages next year after the minimum wage hike, responses mirrored the overall salary outlook: 60% expect no change, 27% expect raises, and 13% anticipate cuts, per CNA. For next year, 49% expect no pay adjustment, 29% foresee increases of 0–3%, and 22% anticipate raises above 3%.

The release follows the Ministry of Labor’s announcement that the monthly minimum wage will rise from NT$28,590 (US$914) to NT$29,500 next year. The hourly rate will increase from NT$190 to NT$196.

The National Development Council recently reported that September’s economic monitoring indicator shifted from green to yellow-red, signaling cooling even as the leading index edged up, per Anue.

Housing sentiment remains weak, with the home-buying index improving slightly to –43.4 and willingness to sell falling to –32.7, suggesting homeowners are more cautious about listing properties.

Global market gains and expectations of US Federal Reserve rate cuts lifted investor sentiment, pushing optimism toward Taiwan stocks to 30.9 and extending the risk-appetite index’s six-month climb to 20.

The Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics projects 4.45% GDP growth and 1.76% inflation for 2025. However, survey respondents were more cautious, with 70% expecting growth above 3% this year and 58% predicting inflation above 2%.