Finance

KOSPI outlook after record highs: semiconductors, dollar and earnings in focus

South Korean stocks are extending a record-high run, keeping attention on factors likely to drive the market next. The market sees a semiconductor-led rally likely to continue for now despite near-term overheating concerns, but expects sector moves to diverge depending on the U.S. Federal Reserve’s policy rate decision, whether the dollar turns weaker and the direction of international oil prices. Investors are also watching the corporate earnings season for guidance.

Markets

Why U.S. stocks stayed calm despite Iran tensions and a surge in oil prices

Tensions in the Middle East involving Iran flared again, but U.S. stocks showed a limited reaction even as oil prices jumped. CNBC\'s \"Mad Money\" host Jim Cramer said markets are now more sensitive to the bond market, corporate earnings and artificial intelligence investment flows than to geopolitical shocks. He cited steady interest rates, a smaller real-economy hit from higher oil prices, resilient manufacturing demand and AI-led investment as key factors supporting equities.