Finance

Investors eye interest-bearing products as Korean stock market languishes

South Korea\'s stock market remains sluggish while market interest rates stay high, drawing investor attention to interest-bearing products such as brokerage-issued notes, repurchase agreements, government bonds and money market funds. Experts say the environment allows investors to secure interest income, but stress that choosing products should start with when the money will be needed. Product features, early redemption terms, credit risks and tax benefits vary, requiring careful checks of conditions and liquidity.

Economy

August current account posts $46.11 billion surplus on surge in semiconductor exports

South Korea posted a $46.11 billion current account surplus in August as exports rose sharply, led by semiconductors, the central bank said. The goods account recorded a $46.81 billion surplus, wider than a month earlier. Exports rose 82.1 percent year on year on a balance of payments basis, while imports rose 23.8 percent. The services account stayed in deficit at $1.68 billion, though the shortfall narrowed.