Daily Briefing (English)

2026-05-22 · KOSPI & Nasdaq
Headline

May 22, 2026 Financial Market Briefing: KOSDAQ Surges Amid Sustained Strong Dollar

Key Takeaways
  • KOSPI closed slightly higher (+0.41%), breaking the 7840 mark driven by buying in large-cap stocks, while KOSDAQ surged nearly 5%.
  • NASDAQ traded flat, inching up only 0.09% as investors took a wait-and-see approach while digesting tech earnings.
  • The USD/KRW exchange rate climbed back to the 1518 level (+0.85%), expanding macroeconomic volatility and raising concerns over foreign capital outflows.
Highlights

KOSPI

Closed higher at 7847.71 due to selective buying by foreigners and institutions in large-cap exporters, though the high exchange rate exceeding 1510 won appears to burden further upward movement.

Highlights

KOSDAQ

KOSDAQ shows selective momentum, led by theme-driven and earnings-sensitive names.

Highlights

NASDAQ

Nasdaq sentiment is mixed as recent gains face intermittent profit-taking pressure.

Today's Watchlist
  • USD/KRW exchange rate trends
  • Foreign investor capital flows
  • Upcoming US tech earnings announcements
Risk Note

A sustained strong dollar at the 1518 level increases the risk of foreign capital flight and heightens macroeconomic instability.

Last updated: 2026-05-22 16:01:03