KOSPI
The benchmark index pulled back as profit-taking combined with company-specific overhangs, including potential delays in Samsung Electronics' detailed shareholder return plan and LG Chem's large-scale block sale of LG Energy Solution shares.
Headline
October 29, 2026 Market Briefing: KOSPI Drops Below 6,000 and KOSDAQ Plunges as Nasdaq Edges Up
Key Takeaways
- Following yesterday's sharp rally, the KOSPI fell 1.24% to close at 5,937.66 amid profit-taking and concerns over delayed shareholder returns following Samsung Electronics' detailed earnings release.
- The KOSDAQ underperformed with a 2.34% drop to 753.23, pressured by net selling from foreign and institutional investors along with broad weakness across EV battery, robotics, and nuclear power themes.
- The US Nasdaq edged up 0.27%, supported by the Federal Reserve's rate freeze at 3.75–4.00% and sustained expectations for AI infrastructure investments.
KOSDAQ
A worsening supply-demand gap relative to the KOSPI led to steep declines across secondary battery materials, tech component suppliers, and robotics stocks, pushing the index toward the low-750 level.
NASDAQ
While earnings divergence emerged among mega-cap tech names amid steady interest rates, persistent capital inflows into AI infrastructure and resilience in the semiconductor sector protected index downside.
Today's Watchlist
- Follow-up schedules for shareholder return policies from major chipmakers including Samsung Electronics, and the return of foreign capital flows.
- Verification of AI monetization and capital expenditure returns following earnings releases from major US tech giants such as Microsoft and Alphabet.
- Stability of macroeconomic indicators and the USD/KRW exchange rate in response to crude oil volatility and geopolitical developments in the Middle East.
Risk Note
As the market digests gains from the prior surge, mega-cap equity overhangs and earnings falling short of elevated expectations may exacerbate market volatility; risk management takes precedence over chasing short-term momentum.
Last updated: 2026-10-29 16:00:40