South Korean Stocks Rise Ahead of Nvidia Earnings

South Korean shares experienced modest gains ahead of Nvidia's critical earnings report, which investors anticipate will provide insights into global AI chip demand. The KOSPI index rose 0.51%, closing at 2,484.56, while foreign investors sold off shares worth approximately 101.9 billion won. The won strengthened slightly against the US dollar, trading at 1,391.8, as government bond yields declined. Despite this positive movement, the KOSPI has seen a 6.43% decline this year, highlighting underlying market challenges. Nvidia's earnings are seen as pivotal, with expectations that they could influence the tech-heavy KOSPI and possibly reverse its recent downturn. Analysts suggest that Nvidia's performance could lead to strategic shifts in South Korea's semiconductor and AI sectors, which are crucial for its economic resilience.