U.S. Market Analysis & 한국장 Daily Briefing — 2026-07-12

U.S. Market Recap: Yesterday

Major Indices: U.S. markets finished higher on Friday, July 10, fueled by renewed demand for AI-related stocks. The S&P 500 climbed 0.42% (+31.62 points) to 7,575; the Nasdaq rose 0.29% (+74.72 points) to 26,281; and the Dow gained 0.29% (+149.68 points) to 52,637.

AI Sector Lead: Wall Street remains optimistic about the growth potential of the AI industry. Semiconductor and AI-related leaders held strong through the weekend, wrapping up the week on a high note.

Low Volatility: With the VIX at extremely low levels, market sentiment is remarkably stable. Investors are now gearing up for upcoming economic data and earnings reports.

Key Themes and Issues in the Korean Market

1. Semiconductor Supercycle: Samsung Electronics & SK Hynix The surge in the U.S. AI market and the explosion in demand for HBM (High Bandwidth Memory) are driving performance improvements for the Korean semiconductor industry. On the 10th, the KOSPI jumped 2.52%, with Samsung Electronics leading the charge with a 2.52% gain. Market anticipation is building as SK Hynix prepares for its U.S. listing.

2. Bank of Korea Rate Decision The upcoming Bank of Korea Monetary Policy Board meeting will be a key variable for the KOSPI this week. The decision regarding potential rate hikes will have a direct impact on asset markets.

3. Defense & Oil-Linked Stocks Geopolitical tensions with Iran are pushing up oil prices, providing a tailwind for defense stocks like Hanwha Aerospace and LIG Defense. Higher oil prices are also supporting energy-related equities.

Featured Stocks to Watch Today

Samsung Electronics (005930)

• Reason: Second-quarter operating profit surged 56.21% year-on-year, driven by the U.S. AI boom and rising demand for DRAM and NAND flash. Further performance gains are expected as it cements its position as a key AI memory chip supplier.

SK Hynix (000660)

• Reason: With a U.S. listing on the horizon, SK Hynix’s ADRs are likely to trade at a premium compared to the Korean stock price. Its outlook is bright thanks to the global expansion of HBM demand.

Hanwha Aerospace (003800)

• Reason: Defense stocks are gaining favor due to President Trump’s hardline rhetoric and rising tensions with Iran. The Hanwha Group’s plan to increase its stake in its defense division is also seen as a positive catalyst.

• Important: This briefing is for reference purposes only, and investors are responsible for their own investment decisions.