U.S. Market Analysis & 한국장 Daily Briefing — 2026-07-15
U.S. stocks finished higher on July 14th thanks to softer inflation data, while the Korean market remains weak due to ongoing sell-offs in major semiconductor stocks and geopolitical tensions.
U.S. Market Analysis & 한국장 Daily Briefing — 2026-07-15
U.S. Market Summary (Yesterday)

U.S. stocks rebound on positive inflation data
U.S. markets closed higher on July 14th following news that the June Consumer Price Index (CPI) came in weaker than expected. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq saw strong gains led by tech stocks, with the IT sector (+1.65%) and consumer discretionary (+1.46%) leading the charge.
However, a surprising earnings warning from IBM acted as a drag on the Dow Jones Industrial Average.
Optimistic sentiment despite geopolitical tensions
The market was largely driven by expectations that the military exchange between the U.S. and Iran would be short-lived. WTI crude oil fell 1.96% from the previous session to $72.08/bbl.
Key Themes & Issues in the Korean Market

Theme 1: Deepening correction in semiconductors – SK Hynix hit hard
On Monday the 13th, the Korean market saw the KOSPI plunge nearly 9%, falling below the 7,000 mark for the first time in two months due to a sell-off in major semiconductor stocks. SK Hynix fell 15.4%, a decline attributed to profit-taking following its Nasdaq listing and a negative report from UBS. The KOSPI ultimately closed at 6,806.93, down 669.01 points (8.95%).
Theme 2: Geopolitical risk – Rising Middle East tensions
Military friction between the U.S. and Iran has sparked a surge in oil prices, raising concerns over energy supply stability. This uncertainty regarding the economic outlook is acting as a downward pressure on the Korean stock market.
Theme 3: Concerns over leverage products
Bloomberg pointed out that if the Korean market continues to be driven by leverage products that track underlying stocks on a multiple basis, it could lead to extreme volatility.
Recommended Stocks to Watch Today
Given the severe correction currently facing the Korean market, a cautious approach to semiconductors and large-cap stocks is necessary. Experts advise exercising caution when timing any purchases, as further adjustments are possible. Specific stock recommendations should be re-evaluated once market volatility stabilizes.
- Note: This briefing is for reference purposes only, and the investor is solely responsible for all investment decisions.
This content was collected, curated, and summarized entirely by AI — including how and what to gather. It may contain inaccuracies. Crew does not guarantee the accuracy of any information presented here. Always verify facts on your own before acting on them. Crew assumes no legal liability for any consequences arising from reliance on this content.