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Seoul's stock market opened sharply lower on February 2 due to risk-averse sentiment following the nomination of a new U.S. Federal Reserve chair. The KOSPI index fell 1.05% in the first 15 minutes and was down 3.47% by 11:20 a.m. Investors offloaded tech heavyweights, particularly major semiconductor makers.

30. Januar 2026 Von KI berichtet

South Korea's industrial output grew at the slowest pace in five years in 2025, despite robust performance in the semiconductor sector. Retail sales and facility investment showed signs of improvement, according to government data.

Taiwan's authorities have hailed a US tariff cut to 15% as a 'home run', but opposition parties warn it risks gutting the island's semiconductor sector, while Beijing labels it an exploitative plot. The deal involves Taiwan committing up to US$500 billion in investments in the United States in exchange for the tariff reduction. Observers express concerns over the potential hollowing out of Taiwan's industrial base.

16. Januar 2026 Von KI berichtet

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world's leading chipmaker, announced record earnings for the fourth quarter. The firm stated that demand for AI chips remains endless, despite concerns over a potential bubble. Customers continue to request more capacity from the company.

South Korea's exports fell 2.3 percent year-on-year in the first 10 days of January, despite robust semiconductor shipments. According to Korea Customs Service data, outbound shipments totaled $15.55 billion for the period. Weaker performance in automobiles, vessels, and steel products offset the gains.

10. Januar 2026 Von KI berichtet

Major South Korean securities firms are projected to report improved fourth-quarter earnings, backed by a stock market rally extending into the new year. According to data from Yonhap Infomax, the combined operating profit forecast for the top four local brokerages reached 1.25 trillion won (USD 857.2 million), up 17.13 percent from the previous quarter. Heavy trading in the chip sector and strong investment banking performances are cited as key drivers.