Taiwan Eases Listing Rules in ‘Asian Nasdaq’ Push to Attract Startups

Taiwan Stock Exchange reform will ease listing and investment rules to lure foreign startups as part of its “Asian Nasdaq” initiative. Initial outreach targets Southeast Asia and Silicon Valley. Taiwan’s main and OTC markets were valued at NTD90tr (USD2.77tr) at end-September, ranking eighth globally, with semiconductors making up 48% of market capitalisation. Foreign issuers with a major shareholder owning over 30% and no China, Hong Kong or Macau capital will be exempt from majority-Taiwanese boards but must appoint at least two Taiwan independent directors. Funds may buy Taiwan Innovative Board (TIB) stocks under main-board limits, and cross-board migration after one year will be allowed under streamlined reviews.