Earnings of major South Korean companies are projected to increase this year, with disparities among industries likely to grow, as per a local credit rating firm. The ‘NICE Sales Index’ for 2026, based on sales estimates of 78 companies, rose to 163.3, a 5.6 percent uptick from the previous year. Additionally, the NICE Industry Operating Profit Index, utilizing earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) estimates, surged to 10 percent, up 7.8 percent from the previous year.
The credit rating agency anticipates strong growth in local chipmakers, power suppliers, and electronics manufacturers to drive overall expansion, particularly due to the U.S.’s moves to limit China’s involvement in its artificial intelligence supply chain. However, sectors vital to the U.S. economy, like automobiles, may face downward pressure. The agency highlighted potential weakening demand for cars in the U.S. and intensified competition due to escalating trade barriers and diminishing effects from pre-tax demands.
Meanwhile, South Korean stocks saw an extension of gains on Monday morning, propelled by a surge in semiconductor and other tech stocks. The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) climbed 2.6 percent, adding 112 points to reach 4,421.63 by 11:20 a.m. The KOSPI hit over 4,400 for the first time, opening higher despite a mixed performance on Wall Street.
On Friday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced by 0.66 percent to 48,382.39 points, while the Nasdaq Composite dipped slightly by 0.03 percent to 23,235.63. Foreign investors bought a net 872 billion won (US$602 million) worth of local stocks, offsetting sales by institutions and individuals.
