Global markets face volatility amid Middle East tensions and Taiwan stock slump

Global financial markets experienced significant volatility driven by geopolitical instability and regional economic shifts. In Taiwan, the weighted index fell by 1,069.83 points (2.27%) last week, closing at 46,041.43, as foreign investors sold 235.7 billion TWD. Analysts suggest market uncertainty may persist until after the U.S. midterm elections.

In the Middle East, escalating tensions following Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabian energy infrastructure and airports have driven up international oil prices. Concurrently, U.S. markets saw declines, with the Dow Jones dropping 1.23%. Meanwhile, China's Ministry of Commerce expressed strong opposition to proposed U.S. restrictions on investment in China, labeling them discriminatory.

Other notable developments include rising gold prices and a surge in oil stocks due to supply concerns. In France, large-scale protests led to over 1,300 arrests, while the U.S. Department of Energy added helium to its critical materials list due to its necessity in semiconductor manufacturing.