KOSPI
Persistent high interest rates and foreign capital outflows weighed on large-cap chipmakers, dragging the index below the 7,000 level.
Headline
Korean Equities Diverge: Large Caps Take a Breather on Rate Pressures While Small-Cap Growth Stocks Surge
Key Takeaways
- The KOSPI slipped slightly (6,941.39 pt, -0.89%) as large-cap semiconductor stocks took a breather amid rising long-term Treasury yields and foreign net selling.
- The KOSDAQ rallied 2.98% to finish at 919.92 pt, boosted by strong gains in semiconductor materials/parts/equipment, secondary batteries, and pharma/biotech sectors.
- While the Nasdaq reached new record highs, the USD/KRW exchange rate showed limited volatility near 1,343.00 won, reflecting heightened market caution.
KOSDAQ
Combined net buying by foreign and institutional investors, alongside sector rotation into semiconductor equipment and biotech catalysts, fueled the index's sharp rebound.
NASDAQ
Strong earnings expectations for big tech propelled the index above 27,400, though profit-taking risks persist due to elevated long-term interest rates.
Today's Watchlist
- Whether the US 10-year Treasury yield sustaining above 5% continues to pressure global growth stock valuations
- Whether foreign net selling on the KOSPI persists and whether the index attempts to reclaim the 7,000 level
- Whether the KOSDAQ can stabilize above 920 and maintain momentum in semiconductor supply chain and biotech rotation
Risk Note
Concerns over prolonged high interest rates and elevated oil price volatility could heighten large-cap swings and deepen performance divergence across individual stocks.
Last updated: 2026-10-06 16:00:34