Welcome, tech enthusiasts! I am Cheng Ting-Fang, your guide through the intriguing realm of #techAsia this week, reporting in from Taipei as we embark on the first full week of the Lunar New Year, Year of the Snake. For those residing in Mandarin-speaking regions like Taiwan and China, the Spring Festival is more than just a holiday; it is a cherished and significant occasion where families come together to celebrate.
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Changing Traditions
In the past, families would prepare elaborate feasts at home for the Spring Festival. However, in recent years, the trend has shifted towards dining out due to the demanding nature of cooking multiple dishes. Last year, my family and I ventured abroad for the holiday. This year, amidst the uncertainty surrounding US President Donald Trump’s inauguration and my impending work commitments, we opted to remain in Taipei. After scrambling to secure a reservation just two weeks prior to New Year’s Eve, we finally settled on a luxurious hotel buffet featuring succulent steak, lobster, fries, and macaroons. The process of finding a dining venue was nothing short of an adventure, with many establishments fully booked well in advance. -
Tech Talk in the Holiday Season
While Trump’s presidency dominated headlines during the festive period, another tech marvel stole the limelight – DeepSeek. Even non-tech-savvy individuals like my parents were intrigued by the implications of this innovation on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company and Nvidia. The discussions surrounding DeepSeek highlighted its potential impact on the tech industry, sparking curiosity among all generations. -
Festive Revelry and Insights
Embracing the spirit of the Year of the Snake, I visited a revered temple in my hometown, Tainan, steeped in centuries of history. The temple, frequented by dignitaries such as Taiwanese President William Lai, teemed with worshippers partaking in traditional rituals, including crossing a "fortune and luck" bridge and receiving blessings from "lucky water." Additionally, an exclusive Lunar New Year interview with Christophe Fouquet, CEO of ASML, shed light on upcoming trends in artificial intelligence and Japan’s semiconductor resurgence, paving the way for an intellectually stimulating start to the year. -
Labs Paving the Way
China’s ingenious response to US trade constraints involves the establishment of "pilot production lines" in state-backed laboratories nationwide, facilitating technological advancements and fostering innovation beyond semiconductors. Noteworthy initiatives like Hubei Yangtze Memory Labs in Wuhan underscore the strategic significance of these laboratories in driving research and development, particularly in emerging technologies like silicon photonics. -
Antitrust Actions
China’s antitrust probes targeting major tech giants such as Google, Nvidia, and Intel reflect the evolving landscape of international trade negotiations. By scrutinizing Google’s Android dominance and potential anti-competitive practices, Chinese regulators seek to protect local phonemakers while leveraging these investigations in high-stakes negotiations with the US. Intel’s looming probe signifies Beijing’s resolve to navigate delicate trade dynamics amid geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties. -
Navigating Tumultuous Trade Waters
The recent shift of tech suppliers away from China indicates a broader diversification strategy endorsed by key players like Apple and HP. Nonetheless, unpredictable tariff policies under the Trump administration challenge the stability of supply chain investments in alternative markets like Thailand, India, and Vietnam. Amid escalating trade tensions, Chairman TH Tung’s jest about relocating to Mars underscores the ever-shifting landscape of global trade dynamics. - Cryptocurrency Craze
Asia’s affluent investors, drawn to the allure of cryptocurrency investments amidst Trump’s re-election and bitcoin’s meteoric rise, are reshaping the financial landscape. With an increasing number of wealthy individuals venturing into digital assets, competition intensifies among cryptocurrency platforms and financial institutions seeking to cater to this lucrative market. Despite the promise of high returns, inherent risks including volatility and shifting regulatory frameworks pose challenges in navigating this burgeoning sector.
In conclusion, the intersection of technology, trade, and geopolitics in the Year of the Snake sets the stage for a dynamic year brimming with innovation, challenges, and opportunities. Stay tuned for more exciting developments as we venture further into the tech realm in the coming months.
