The National Pension Service's holdings in listed shares jumped 35 percent, boosted by strong performances from Samsung Electronics and SK hynix. According to FnGuide data, the value rose from 196.4 trillion won on Sept. 30 to 266.1 trillion won ($183 billion) as of Friday. This surge reflects gains in the semiconductor sector amid a chip market upswing.
The National Pension Service (NPS), South Korea's largest pension fund, saw the value of its listed stock holdings surge to 266.1 trillion won. Data compiled by market researcher FnGuide shows a 35 percent increase from 196.4 trillion won as of Sept. 30. The rise was driven by robust gains in shares of Samsung Electronics, which climbed 63.9 percent, and SK hynix, which more than doubled in value.
Over this period, the Korean stock market benefited from strength in the semiconductor sector. Both companies capitalized on booming demand for AI chips, enhancing shareholder value. As the country's biggest institutional investor, the NPS is particularly attuned to such market dynamics.
Analysts view this uptick as bolstering the stability of pension assets. Yet, potential risks from global trade tensions and currency fluctuations remain. The stock portfolio forms a key component of NPS's overall assets, influencing its long-term investment strategy.