KOSPI
The KOSPI showed a moderate upward trend, attempting to settle at the 6,740 level amid modest buying from institutional and foreign investors.
Headline
Financial Market Briefing - July 21, 2026
Key Takeaways
- The KOSPI edged up to close at 6,747.95 points, while the KOSDAQ also finished slightly higher at 753.34 points.
- The Nasdaq experienced a minor correction of -0.05%, hovering in flat territory at 25,508.07 points.
- The USD/KRW exchange rate edged down to close at 1,475.10 KRW, reflecting ongoing currency volatility.
KOSDAQ
The KOSDAQ closed slightly higher driven by retail buying, though overall trading volume remained somewhat sluggish.
NASDAQ
The Nasdaq saw limited upside and posted a minor flat-to-negative close due to profit-taking pressure focused on tech stocks.
Today's Watchlist
- Whether the USD/KRW exchange rate will stabilize below the 1,470 level and its subsequent impact on foreign capital flows.
- Potential for increased volatility in the Nasdaq ahead of major big tech earnings releases and the trajectory of semiconductor indices.
- Whether domestic market trading volume will recover, and the likelihood of stock-specific movements centered on small-to-mid caps.
Risk Note
A prolonged high exchange rate regime poses risks of upward pressure on import prices and foreign capital outflows; a conservative portfolio approach is warranted.
Last updated: 2026-07-21 16:00:10