U.S. Market Analysis & Korea Daily Briefing — 2026-06-24
The U.S. Nasdaq dropped 2.21% as semiconductor stocks led the decline. Meanwhile, the Korean market is trying to recover from its "Black Tuesday" shock, but volatility has hit record highs. Today, focus on semiconductor profit-taking, AI bubble concerns, and extreme market swings.
U.S. Market Analysis & Korea Daily Briefing — 2026-06-24
Summary of Yesterday’s U.S. Market
Nasdaq Drops 2.21% as Semiconductor Stocks Tumble
On the 23rd (local time), the U.S. stock market saw major indices stumble due to a sharp sell-off in semiconductor stocks. The Nasdaq fell 2.21% compared to the previous day, showing broad losses across the tech sector. Conversely, the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 51,712.71, up 148.01 points (0.29%), showing a mixed market performance.

Fed’s Hawkish Stance and Doubts Over AI Investment Bubbles
With concerns rising over potential further interest rate hikes under Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Kevin Warsh, tech stocks weakened further as doubts grew regarding the expansion of AI investments funded through debt. Key economic indicators released on the 22nd are also expected to influence future Fed policy.
Key Themes and Issues in the Korean Market
1. Semiconductor Profit-Taking and Recovery from 'Black Tuesday'
Following "Black Tuesday," which saw a record-breaking 9.99% (910 points) drop, the KOSPI experienced panic selling centered on large-cap semiconductor stocks. While foreign and institutional investors engaged in indiscriminate dumping, retail investors supported the market with a record net purchase of 11.1 trillion won. While a rebound is underway today, pressure for profit-taking in the semiconductor sector is expected to persist.

2. Volatility Index (VKOSPI) Hits Record High
The KOSPI 200 Volatility Index (VKOSPI) has soared to its highest level since the financial crisis. With circuit breakers and sidecars triggered three times each in a single day, market volatility has reached extreme levels, reflecting heightened investor anxiety.
3. AI Bubble Concerns and Tech Stock Adjustments
In line with the weakness of U.S. tech stocks, Korean semiconductor and tech stocks are being re-evaluated. As global investors question the sustainability of debt-fueled AI investment expansion, selling pressure on overvalued tech stocks is likely to continue.
Stocks to Watch Today
1. Samsung Electronics (SSNLF) As a representative stock in the semiconductor sector, it is at the center of profit-taking. It may be a target for short-term trading aiming for a technical rebound amid increased volatility, but investors should be cautious of potential further adjustments in the mid-term due to AI bubble concerns.
2. SK Hynix As a memory semiconductor company, it was a primary target for panic selling alongside Samsung Electronics. If retail investors continue net buying today, it could benefit from a rebound.
3. Cyclical and Financial Stocks If the cycle of oil price declines leading to eased inflation concerns and buying in cyclical stocks takes hold, funds flowing out of semiconductors and tech could move into cyclical and financial stocks. Financial stocks, in particular, have room to rebound if interest rate hike concerns ease.
- Note: This briefing is for reference purposes only, and the investor is solely responsible for all investment decisions.
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