Deposit-token trials are spreading from payment gateways and merchant networks to cross-border payments, shifting the commercialisation race from issuance to where tokens can be used. Payment and settlement at the same time could cut small merchants’ fees and settlement periods. Inclusive finance is expanding by borrower type as banks tailor products and fintechs support fees. Regulators are weighing tighter limits on single-stock leveraged products. Market reforms also tighten scrutiny of duplicate listings and low-PBR firms.

A surge in South Korean stock market turnover is making securities subsidiaries a key earnings driver for financial holding companies. Average daily turnover in the second quarter is estimated at 89.6 trillion won, up 28.6 percent from the first quarter, with May topping 100 trillion won for the first time. Brokerages are expected to post sharp profit gains, supporting non-interest income. Risks include bond valuation losses, higher credit costs and tighter rules on single-stock leveraged products.