KOSPI slightly down amid caution ahead of FOMC; KOSDAQ also falls

The KOSPI index is falling in early trading as caution sets in ahead of the U.S. benchmark interest rate decision.

As of 9:05 a.m. on the 9th, the KOSPI index was down 20.08 points (0.48%) from the previous day at 4134.77. The index started the day 0.6% lower.

Earlier, major U.S. indices showed weakness ahead of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) decision on the benchmark rate, which is interpreted as having dampened investor sentiment.

At this time in the KOSPI market, foreign investors and institutions are net-selling KRW 125 billion and KRW 13 billion, respectively. Individuals are net buyers by KRW 131 billion.

Top market-cap KOSPI companies are mixed. Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, LG Energy Solution, and Hyundai Motor are down, while Samsung Biologics, Doosan Enerbility, and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries are up.

In early trading, Dongyang Express and Cheonil Express, which are benefiting from expectations for development of the Seoul Express Bus Terminal, are surging. Samsung Pharm and Hyundai Pharm are also rising. Kolon Mobility Group, Coway, and HL Mando are falling.

The KOSDAQ index is trading flat. At this time, the KOSDAQ index is down 0.01% at 927.72. In the KOSDAQ market, foreign investors and institutions are net-selling KRW 89 billion and KRW 22 billion, respectively. Individuals are net buyers by KRW 127 billion.

Alteogen, which decided to move its listing to KOSPI, is up 0.55%. EcoPro BM is up 4.1%, while EcoPro is down 0.43%.

The won–dollar exchange rate is slightly higher. In the Seoul foreign exchange market today, the won–dollar exchange rate opened at 1469.2 won, up 2.3 won from the previous day.

Noh Jeong-dong, Hankyung.com reporter dong2@hankyung.com