Finance

Betting on a shaky Korean market: Are Korean retail investors going all-in on leverage?

Korean investors are continuing high-risk leveraged trading in U.S.-listed ETFs as South Korea’s stock market swings sharply, data showed. From Sept. 18 to Oct. 21, Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bull 3X Shares ETF (SOXL) ranked first in foreign securities purchases, with net buying of $2.76 billion. Demand also rose for Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3X Shares ETF (KORU) and Nasdaq-linked leveraged products. Meanwhile, short-term risk funds and margin financing in Korea declined.

Crypto

Analyst says XRP faces life-changing opportunity in 2027-2029, urges caution on year-end surge

Cautious views have emerged that XRP may struggle to stage a sharp rebound by the end of 2026. Crypto analyst Jack Lector said volatility could persist through year-end due to the U.S. midterm elections, geopolitical issues and possible Federal Reserve rate hikes. He stayed optimistic for 2027-2029, calling it a life-changing opportunity, though the basis was not specified. Separately, analyst Ali Martinez said XRP could rise toward $2 if support near $1.25 holds.