🇰🇷 [Thursday, May 8, 2025] Korea Economic & Stock Market Briefing

Strength in foreign buying and global optimism boost both KOSPI and KOSDAQ.

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📈 Market Summary

• KOSPI: 2,579.48 (+0.22%)
• KOSDAQ: 729.59 (+0.94%)
• USD/KRW Exchange Rate: ₩1,396.60 (-0.14%)

The KOSPI extended its gains for the third consecutive session, supported by continued foreign investor buying, while the KOSDAQ rallied toward the 730 level, led by tech stocks.

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📰 Top Stories

1. 🌍 Foreign Investors Net Buyers for Second Straight Day

Foreign investors recorded net purchases for the second consecutive session, contributing to KOSPI's upward momentum. Notably, strong buying in the futures market further supported the index’s advance.

2. 💰 Gold Prices Rise as Global Safe-Haven Demand Grows

Domestic gold prices climbed in line with international trends, with global gold surpassing $3,400 per ounce. This reflects a growing preference for safe-haven assets amid global uncertainties.

3. 🏦 Top Business Leaders Call for Institutional Support

Heads of Korea’s five major business organizations met with opposition leader Lee Jae-myung to emphasize the country’s growing economic challenges and urged institutional and regulatory support to aid recovery.

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🔮 Outlook & Key Upcoming Events

• May 9 (Fri): U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) release
• May 10 (Sat): Fed Chair Jerome Powell scheduled to speak
• Mid-May: Second round of U.S.-China trade talks expected

Investors will be watching closely for cues from global inflation data and central bank signals, both of which could drive short-term market direction.

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💼 Conclusion & Investment Strategy

Despite uncertainties surrounding global monetary policy and economic growth, Korean markets remain supported by strong foreign inflows and sector-specific momentum (especially in tech and commodities). Investors may consider the following strategies:

• Balance between growth and defensive sectors: Focus on tech, AI, and clean energy while holding positions in dividend or value stocks.
• Emphasize safe-haven assets: With gold demand rising, consider partial allocation to precious metals or gold-linked ETFs.
• Monitor policy signals: Corporate regulatory shifts and political developments may impact key sectors—especially in heavy industry and innovation.
• Risk management is key: Stay diversified, hold cash buffers, and avoid overexposure to high-volatility stocks.

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📌 Stay focused on fundamentals and be selective in this evolving market. Wishing you wise and steady investing—see you in the next briefing! 😊