South Korea’s stock market extends losses to 11% just minutes after triggering a circuit breaker

South Korea's stock market faced a turbulent session as the KOSPI index plummeted, triggering a circuit breaker after an 8% drop, marking the first such pause since August 2024. The rapid decline extended to an 11% loss just minutes after trading resumed, reflecting heightened investor anxiety. This sharp downturn underscores the volatility gripping global markets amid escalating geopolitical tensions. The broader Asian markets mirrored this distress, with regional indices declining as the escalating US-Iran conflict stoked fears about oil supply disruptions. Investors are particularly concerned about the potential impact on energy prices, which could ripple through various sectors. The uncertainty has led to a flight from riskier assets, further amplifying the sell-off in equities across Asia. In response to these developments, Brent crude prices surged by 12%, reaching levels that could strain economies reliant on oil imports. Market analysts are closely monitoring the situation, as prolonged instability could exacerbate inflationary pressures worldwide. As the geopolitical landscape remains uncertain, traders and policymakers alike brace for continued market volatility in the days ahead.

— Authored by Next24 Live