KOSPI ends sharply higher on auto gains

Shares closed sharply higher Friday as investors snapped up shares in major automakers amid reduced U.S. tariff concerns. The won strengthened against the dollar.

AI investment boom lifts outlook for Korean memory chipmakers

A surge in AI-related spending is expected to boost earnings for South Korea's major memory chipmakers next year, driven by increased demand for server components and a new data-centre refresh cycle. Fitch Ratings forecasts that AI workloads will support this growth.

The Nikkei 225 index opened down 0.9%, and the Seoul Composite Index opened down 0.1%

ROI-Asia's stocks ride a reform wave, but rough seas lie ahead: Raychaudhuri

Asia's stock markets have surged over 25% this year, driven by governance reforms and domestic investments, outpacing the S&P 500. However, challenges remain, requiring politically sensitive reforms. North Asian markets have seen increased share buybacks, while domestic investments in China and India have grown. Yet, Korea struggles to redirect domestic savings. Future reforms will test governments' resolve, especially in stabilizing China's property market and addressing India's retail investment issues.

EMERGING MARKETS-EM assets steady with Russia-Ukraine updates in the spotlight

Emerging market assets remained steady amid Russia-Ukraine peace talks, with the Russian rouble and stocks dropping. Ukraine's bonds fell, while Poland's central bank is expected to cut rates. The European Commission plans to use frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine. Global risk sentiment improved, with expectations of a U.S. Federal Reserve rate cut. Turkey's inflation dipped, reinforcing rate cut expectations. Romania's funding needs are set to grow, while Egypt's equities advanced. In Asia, Korea's KOSPI Index rose, but Hong Kong and Philippine stocks fell. The Indian rupee hit a record low.