February 7, 2025: South Korea & U.S. Economic News Summary
For those interested in economic trends, here’s a summary of the latest economic news from South Korea and the United States as of February 7, 2025. Global economic slowdown, interest rate policy changes, and the growth of the AI industry are among the key issues affecting the market. Let’s take a closer look.
🇰🇷 South Korea’s Economic News & Issues
1. UN’s Economic Growth Forecast for South Korea
According to the ‘2025 World Economic Situation and Prospects’ report published by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), South Korea’s real GDP growth is expected to be 2.2% in both 2025 and 2026. This figure is lower than the global economic growth forecast of 2.8%, with global slowdown and weakened exports cited as key factors.
2. Concerns Over Slowing Economic Growth
At the ‘2025 Economic Outlook’ event hosted by the Korean-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry, experts warned that South Korea’s economic growth rate could fall below 2%. Key contributing factors include:
- Sluggish export growth
- Declining consumer sentiment
- Political uncertainties
3. Samsung Enters the Display Glass Substrate Market
Samsung Electronics has officially entered the display glass substrate market, a key component in display and semiconductor industries. This move is expected to contribute to domestic production of core materials and enhance global supply chain stability.
🇺🇸 U.S. Economic News & Issues
1. Federal Reserve Predicts Slower U.S. Economic Growth
The Federal Reserve forecasts that the U.S. economy will slow down in 2025, with the GDP growth rate decreasing from 2.5% to 2.1%. Meanwhile, inflation is projected to rise slightly from 2.4% to 2.5%, potentially delaying interest rate cuts.
2. Mixed Trends in the U.S. Stock Market
On February 6, the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 38,421.36, down 0.28%, while the Nasdaq Composite rose by 0.5%. Investors remain cautious, closely monitoring the Fed’s monetary policy and corporate earnings reports.
3. Nvidia Stock Surges
Amid ongoing AI sector growth, Nvidia’s stock surged by 3.1%, marking its third consecutive day of gains. Increased demand for AI-related semiconductors and data center expansion are driving factors behind the rise.
4. Strengthened Economic Cooperation Among the U.S., South Korea, and Japan
Economic ties between the U.S., South Korea, and Japan continue to strengthen, with corporate leaders from all three nations expressing interest in deeper cooperation. Areas of focus include technology, supply chains, and trade, all contributing to regional economic stability and growth.
📈 Conclusion
Both South Korea and the U.S. are navigating global economic slowdowns, changing monetary policies, and AI-driven industry shifts. Keeping an eye on economic trends will be crucial for making informed investment and business decisions.
Stay tuned for more timely and accurate economic updates! 🚀