US Market Analysis & Korean Market Daily Briefing
Following late-week losses, U.S. markets rebounded strongly on Monday, September 21, driven by falling oil prices and lower Treasury yields. The Nasdaq surged over 2% to close at an all-time high, led by semiconductors and tech. Today’s Korean market focuses on semiconductor heavyweights, AI supply and demand, and geopolitical risks.
US Market Analysis & Korean Market Daily Briefing — 2026-09-23
Previous Day U.S. Market Summary
The U.S. stock market wrapped up the week on a strong risk-on note on Monday, September 21. The Nasdaq jumped 2.26% to 27,122.09, the S&P 500 rose 1.49% to 7,764.70, and the Dow Jones gained 0.71% to 52,050. Breaking out of a four-day consolidation phase, the Nasdaq closed at a fresh all-time high.
- Oil and Yields Retreat Trigger Rebound: Upward momentum built as last week's market-shaking surge in oil prices and bond yields calmed down.
- Semiconductor and Tech Leadership: Semiconductor stocks surged on AI demand, with the technology (XLK) and communication sectors leading the charge. Bitcoin traded above $87,000.
- Downward Pressure: Energy Sector Weakness: The energy sector pulled back amid falling oil prices, capping further gains.

On the macro front, sentiment surrounding the upcoming U.S.-China summit between the President and Xi Jinping, alongside Middle East geopolitical risks (news flow regarding the U.S. and Iran), remains a key variable for the market.
Key Themes and Issues in the Korean Stock Market
1. Semiconductor Equipment and AI-Led Rally
Bolstered by the overnight surge in U.S. semiconductors, the domestic market saw chip themes lead the session as the KOSPI made a fresh attempt at the 7,000 milestone. In the September 21 session, the semiconductor equipment sector ranked first in thematic performance, with market flows centered around two major semiconductor giants: Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix.

2. Falling Oil Prices and Easing Geopolitical Risks
Tensions between the U.S. and Iran and oil price volatility could also influence domestic capital flows. The pullback in oil prices and bond yields is positive for risk-on assets, which can translate into a preference for domestic semiconductor and overseas export stocks. However, event risks such as the U.S.-China summit require volatility management.
3. Supply and Demand Watch Ahead of Chuseok (Autumn Holiday)
Reports indicated that the domestic market focused on whether the 7,000 line would hold as risk appetite recovered on September 21. Amid pre- and post-holiday supply-demand monitoring, keeping an eye on the fluctuations of major semiconductor stocks is crucial.
Stocks to Watch Today
1. Samsung Electronics — Positioned to act as a leading heavyweight in a market centered on the top two semiconductor giants, with expectations of direct benefits from the U.S. AI semiconductor rally.
2. SK Hynix — Market trends led by the top two semiconductor stocks are viewed through the lens of HBM companies with high direct exposure to AI benefits.
3. Semiconductor Equipment Stocks (Top Single Stock Format) — Domestically, the semiconductor equipment sector ranked first in theme performance (averaging a 17.73% return), drawing attention as the leading theme. However, strict risk management is essential due to high short-term volatility.
- Note: This briefing is for reference only, and investors are solely responsible for their investment decisions.
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