South Korean individual investors’ net purchases topped KRW 200 trillion, while net buying continued even during the KOSPI’s sharp decline. The Nikkei 225 held above ¥65,000 after wild swings.
Individual investors’ net purchases of domestic stocks and ETFs this year totaled KRW 201.8503 trillion, pushing the cumulative figure above KRW 200 trillion. In particular, individuals continued to be net buyers through the Securities Market and Nextrade even as the market fell from highs, with the total rising over time.
After surpassing KRW 100 trillion in mid-May, the figure nearly doubled in less than 3 months. By market, net purchases on the Securities Market were substantial, while net purchases on Nextrade and in the ETF market also provided support. The KOSDAQ, however, recorded net sales.
Investor deposits have fallen sharply since June, and margin trading balances have also declined. Experts point out that it is difficult to assess the outlook based on investor deposits alone. Some also believe that losses on U.S. stock investments are beginning to emerge.
In the Japanese market, the Nikkei 225 rebounded after plunging for 3 days and traded at around ¥65,600 toward the weekend. The dollar-yen exchange rate traded in the mid-¥157 range, while some expect trading volume to decline as the summer holiday period begins.