Stocks declined, led by Asustek Computer Inc (華碩電腦) and Quanta Computer Inc (廣達電腦), after the NASDAQ Composite Index sank to its lowest since Jan. 2, prompting some investors in Asia to sell computer-related shares.
"Technology stocks are no longer favored by investors because of uncertainty about their future profit growth," said Celine Chiang (
"Performance of industry leaders in the US provided a good hint for investors about their suppliers in Asia," she said.
The TAIEX fell 76.66, or 1.2 percent, to 6,589.23. Taiex Futures for February delivery shed 0.9 percent to 6,643. About five stocks declined for every two that gained.
About 6.7 billion shares changed hands, 36 percent above the daily average in the past three months. Shares worth NT$140 billion (US$4.2 billion) traded, 33 percent above the three-month daily average.
Quanta Computer, the nation's largest notebook computer maker, fell 2.9 percent to NT$82.50. Asustek, the country's largest maker of boards that connect the chips in personal computers, fell 3.4 percent to NT$85.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (台積電) fell 1.6 percent to HK$61.50.
China Airlines was unchanged at NT$19, after earlier rising as much as 1.1 percent. Profit at the carrier this year may double, as demand for leisure and business travel recovers from last year's SARS outbreak, said chief executive Philip Wei (魏幸雄). Net income will surge to US$100 million this year, from US$51.06 million last year, he said.
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