KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 7 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia’s benchmark index rebounded from earlier losses to close at its intraday high on Wednesday, gaining 0.27 per cent in late trading as buying interest returned to selected heavyweights. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) advanced 4.48 points to 1,676.83 from Tuesday’s close of 1,672.35. The benchmark index opened 0.88 of-a-point lower at 1,671.47 and subsequently hit a low of 1,665.94 during the mid-morning session before gaining momentum toward closing. On the broader market, losers led gainers by 565 to 512, while some 526 counters were unchanged, 1,046 untraded, and 10 suspended. Turnover improved to 2.73 billion units worth RM2.76 billion versus Tuesday’s 2.66 billion units worth RM2.76 billion. Dealers said that investors were cautious following geopolitical developments in Asia.
China-Taiwan Tensions Escalate Over Semiconductor Industry
- China claims Taiwan is giving away its semiconductor industry to the U.S. in exchange for political support.
- Reports suggest Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is in talks for a stake in Intel, though neither company has confirmed this.
- Taiwan’s government denies knowledge of any overseas investment application from TSMC.
U.S. and Taiwan's Semiconductor Dispute
- President Donald Trump has criticized Taiwan for taking U.S. semiconductor business and has pushed for more domestic chip production.
- China's Taiwan Affairs Office accused Taiwan's ruling party (DPP) of 'selling out' TSMC to gain favor with the U.S.
- Beijing claims Taiwan is using its chip industry as leverage for political independence.
Taiwan Responds to China's Allegations
- Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council reaffirmed TSMC’s importance and vowed to collaborate with the industry to maintain leadership in advanced technology.
- TSMC has not responded to the accusations.
Key Takeaways
- China views Taiwan's potential semiconductor collaborations with the U.S. as a threat.
- Taiwan denies that TSMC is being ‘given away’ and says it will protect its semiconductor dominance.
- The U.S. remains Taiwan’s key international ally, adding geopolitical complexity to the semiconductor industry.
Summary:
- China accuses Taiwan of using its chip industry as a bargaining tool for U.S. political support.
- TSMC reportedly in talks with Intel, though unconfirmed by both companies.
- Taiwan refutes the allegations and commits to maintaining its semiconductor leadership.
- The U.S.-Taiwan semiconductor relationship remains a major geopolitical flashpoint.
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