Taiwan’s stock market ended Monday’s session on a firmer footing, with the benchmark Taiwan Weighted Index climbing 0.83%, reflecting renewed buying interest across key industrial segments. Gains were led by plastics, computers & peripherals, and chemical stocks, sectors closely tied to regional manufacturing demand and global technology supply chains.
The advance came as investors selectively rotated into cyclical and technology-linked names after recent volatility. While broader Asian markets showed mixed signals, Taiwan equities benefited from company-specific momentum and a modest improvement in risk appetite. Market participants noted that the rally was measured rather than speculative, suggesting cautious optimism rather than exuberance.
Top Gainers and Laggards Shape Trading
Individual stock performance played a central role in shaping the day’s market tone. Several mid-cap technology and electronics names posted sharp gains, helping offset losses elsewhere.
Among the best performers on the Taiwan Weighted Index were:
- Abonmax Co Ltd, which surged 10.0% to close at NT$80.30
- Champion Microelectronic Corp, up 9.98% to NT$68.30
- Test Research Inc, rising 9.94% to end at NT$188.00
These gains reflected strong speculative interest and optimism around near-term earnings prospects, particularly in semiconductor-related testing and electronic components.
On the downside, selling pressure weighed on select stocks:
- Fortune Oriental Co Ltd, down 9.88% to NT$22.80
- Chang Wah Electromaterials Inc, which fell 5.58% to NT$41.45
- Transcend Information Inc, slipping 4.36% to NT$175.50
Despite the index advance, market breadth remained mixed, underscoring an environment where investors are highly selective and sensitive to valuation.
Commodities and Currency Signals Add Context
Global macro indicators provided a supportive backdrop. Energy prices moved higher, with U.S. crude oil rising 1.13% to $57.16 per barrel, while Brent crude gained 1.07% to $61.12. Higher oil prices often signal expectations of firmer industrial demand, a positive read-through for export-driven economies like Taiwan.
Precious metals also strengthened, as February gold futures climbed 1.05% to $4,433.50 per ounce, reflecting ongoing demand for defensive assets.
In currency markets, the U.S. dollar edged up 0.14% against the Taiwan dollar to 31.56, while the Taiwan dollar was broadly stable against the Chinese yuan. The U.S. Dollar Index futures rose slightly to 98.28, indicating limited but persistent dollar strength.
Taken together, Monday’s session highlighted Taiwan’s resilience amid global crosscurrents, with sector leadership and selective stock gains driving the market higher while investors remain alert to external risks.
