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  • Gas Prices at U.S. Stations Drop for 14th Consecutive Week
    Gas Prices at U.S. Stations Drop for 14th Consecutive Week Gas prices at stations across the country have fallen for the 14th consecutive week, although the decrease has been modest.According to the Korea National Oil Corporation's oil price information system, Opinet, the average selling price of gasoline at nationwide stations for the third week of August (August 16-20) was 1,862.5 won per liter, down 1.7 won from the previous week.Regionally, gasoline prices in Seoul were the highest at 1,908.9 won per liter, a decrease of 1.0 won from the previous week. Daegu reported the lowest price at 1,835.6 won, down 2.1 won.By brand, GS Caltex stations had the highest gasoline price at 1,865.6 won per liter, while discount stations offered the lowest price at 1,853.5 won.The average selling price of diesel was recorded at 1,845.7 won per liter, down 1.4 won from the previous week.International oil prices rose this week amid stalled negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, increasing economic pressure from the U.S. on Iran, and escalating tensions between the UAE and Iran, which heightened supply concerns. However, increased alternative supplies from Saudi Arabia limited the extent of the price rise.The price of Dubai crude, a benchmark for imported crude oil, increased by $3.2 to $91.8 per barrel. International gasoline prices rose by $2.4 to $113.8, while international diesel prices increased by $4.0 to $163.7.Changes in international oil prices typically reflect in domestic station prices with a delay of 2 to 3 weeks. To mitigate the impact of international price fluctuations on domestic oil product prices, the government designated the 9th oil price ceiling on August 21 at the same level as the 8th. The ceiling prices are set at 1,784 won per liter for gasoline, 1,773 won for diesel, and 1,380 won for kerosene.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 08:24:00
  • Classics Make a Comeback with Bestsellers Like Seneca and The Odyssey
    Classics Make a Comeback with Bestsellers Like Seneca and The Odyssey A collection of writings by the ancient Roman philosopher Seneca is dominating the bookstore charts. Seneca: To You Who Are Losing Today has reached the number one spot on the overall bestseller lists at major bookstores like Kyobo Bookstore and Yes24.As of August 22, Kyobo Bookstore and Yes24 reported that Seneca: To You Who Are Losing Today has maintained its position as the top overall bestseller for two consecutive weeks at Yes24 and three weeks at Kyobo Bookstore.According to Yes24, sales from August 1 to 19 surged approximately sevenfold (668%) compared to the same period last month. Buyers in their 40s accounted for 35.9% of sales, while those in their 50s made up 37.4%, indicating strong interest from the 4050 demographic. The author, known for the YouTube channel 'Hawaii Mansion,' has garnered over one million subscribers, contributing to the book's rising popularity through online buzz and word of mouth.The release of the film The Odyssey has also sparked a renewed interest in classic literature. Yes24 has ranked Park Moon-jae's translation of The Odyssey at number two on its overall bestseller list. Meanwhile, Kyobo Bookstore has placed The Odyssey at number five, and another version, Odyssey, has climbed 51 spots to secure the 15th position.A representative from Kyobo Bookstore noted, "With various publishers releasing related titles, readers' choices have diversified, leading to a noticeable rise in the bestseller rankings for humanities, history, and culture books. This interest has also extended to Greek and Roman mythology as a whole."In the children's comic book sector, the demand for e-books has increased as readers seek out Hong Eun-young's Greek and Roman Mythology, which is currently out of print.The trend of classics and steady sellers continues. Hermann Hesse's Siddhartha is ranked fifth on Yes24's overall list, while Yang Gyu-ja's Contradiction is in sixth place. Both titles have shown a sales increase compared to the previous month for four consecutive months from May to August. Sales from August 1 to 19 also rose by 14.4% and 55.6%, respectively, compared to the same period last month.Kim Ae-ran's essay collection I Wrote That, released after a seven-year hiatus, reached number 12 on Yes24's overall list and number two in the essay category within just nine days of its release. The majority of buyers were women in their 40s (36.9%) and 50s (32.6%), confirming support from the existing readership.At Kyobo Bookstore, The Vocabulary of the Heart surged 69 spots to reach number nine overall. The book aims to help readers express their emotions effectively and take care of their mental well-being, benefiting from pre-release funding and social media buzz. Female readers in their 30s led the purchasing.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 08:20:00
  • Weather: Showers Expected Across the Country with Feels-Like Temperatures Reaching 35 Degrees
    Weather: Showers Expected Across the Country with Feels-Like Temperatures Reaching 35 Degrees On Saturday, the 22nd, the weather will be generally cloudy nationwide, with showers expected in various regions.Showers will begin in the Jeonnam region, western inland areas of Gyeongnam, and Jeju Island from the morning, expanding to the central and other southern regions by afternoon. Most of the showers will cease in the southern regions by late afternoon and in the central regions by evening.During the showers, gusty winds and thunder and lightning may occur, so caution is advised to prevent safety accidents.The expected rainfall amounts are 5 to 40 mm in Seoul, Incheon, Gyeonggi, and inland and mountainous areas of Gangwon, around 5 mm on the eastern coast of Gangwon, and 5 to 60 mm in the inland areas of Daejeon, Sejong, Chungnam, Chungbuk, Gwangju, Jeonnam, Jeonbuk, Daegu, Gyeongbuk, Ulsan, Gyeongnam, and Jeju Island.Heat advisories are also in effect, particularly in the Chungcheong and southern regions, as well as Jeju Island, with feels-like temperatures expected to rise to around 33 degrees Celsius in most areas. In some parts of Jeolla and Gyeongnam, as well as Jeju Island, the feels-like temperature may reach around 35 degrees, so caution against heat-related illnesses is advised.The morning low temperatures are forecasted to be between 21 and 26 degrees, while the daytime highs are expected to range from 28 to 34 degrees.Waves in the sea are expected to reach 0.5 to 1.0 meters in the East and South Seas, and 0.5 to 1.5 meters in the West Sea.In the offshore waters, wave heights are anticipated to be 0.5 to 1.5 meters in the East Sea, 0.5 to 3.0 meters in the West Sea, and 0.5 to 2.5 meters in the South Sea.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 08:12:00
  • Seoul Housing Prices Rise, Gangnam Declines as 30-Somethings Shift to Gangbuk
    Seoul Housing Prices Rise, Gangnam Declines as 30-Somethings Shift to Gangbuk Seoul's apartment prices continue to rise, with key areas in Gangnam experiencing declines while prices in Gangbuk are increasing, highlighting a stark regional disparity.The Korea Real Estate Agency reported on August 20 that for the third week of August 2026 (as of August 17), the national weekly apartment price trend showed a 0.22% increase in Seoul, up from 0.21% the previous week. The metropolitan area rose by 0.15%, while the national average increased by 0.08%, and regional areas remained stable at 0.00%.In Seoul, the 14 districts in Gangbuk saw a 0.30% increase, surpassing the 0.14% rise in the 11 districts of Gangnam. Seongbuk recorded the highest increase in Seoul at 0.45%, followed by Jungnang and Seodaemun at 0.44%, and Junggu and Gangbuk at 0.41% each.Conversely, key areas in Gangnam showed a downward trend. Seocho saw a 0.09% decline, primarily due to redevelopment projects in Jamwon and Banpo-dong, while Gangnam also dropped by 0.05%, particularly in Daechi and Gaepo-dong.The rental market also reflected a notable increase in Gangbuk. Seoul's apartment rental prices rose by 0.19%, but Seocho and Gangnam experienced declines of 0.08% and 0.03%, respectively. Seongbuk (0.37%), Gangbuk (0.37%), Dobong (0.36%), and Nowon (0.35%) recorded relatively high increases.The Korea Real Estate Agency analyzed that the overall price increase in Seoul was due to rising contracts in well-located complexes near subway stations and large developments, despite a cautious market sentiment among participants.The weakness in Gangnam is attributed to the influx of urgent sales and a wait-and-see attitude. Nam Hyuk-woo, a researcher at Woori Bank, stated, "The continued release of urgent sales by homeowners who decided to sell after the announcement of tax reform is reflected in the prices."Meanwhile, the activity of younger buyers has been relatively robust in Gangbuk and other non-Gangnam areas. The real estate information app Jippo analyzed data from the Supreme Court's registration information center on August 20, revealing that the number of buyers for Seoul's collective buildings in July reached 16,172, a 7.2% increase from June's 15,081. However, this figure is an 8.5% decrease compared to 17,670 in July of the previous year.Among age groups, buyers in their 30s numbered 5,976, the highest, followed by 3,925 in their 40s. Together, these two age groups accounted for 61.2% of all buyers.Notably, the number of buyers in their 30s increased by 8.2% from June's 5,524 to July's 5,976, while those in their 40s rose by 14.4% from 3,432 to 3,925. The increase in these two age groups represented 86.6% of the total rise in buyers for Seoul's collective buildings.By district, Eunpyeong recorded the highest number of buyers at 1,435, followed by Songpa with 1,173, Gangseo and Nowon each with 1,028, and Gangdong with 887.In the 30s age group, Nowon had the most buyers at 488, followed closely by Eunpyeong at 486, Gangseo at 409, Songpa at 405, and Dongdaemun at 352. For the 40s, Eunpyeong led with 402 buyers, followed by Songpa at 314, Gangdong at 279, Gangnam at 227, and Nowon at 226.Overall, the number of buyers increased in 16 out of Seoul's 25 districts compared to the previous month. Gwanak saw the largest increase with 344 new buyers, followed by Eunpyeong with 290, Gangdong with 238, Songpa with 224, and Dongdaemun with 173. In contrast, Jungnang experienced the largest decrease, with 616 fewer buyers than the previous month.While the overall housing market in Seoul shows an upward trend, the dynamics between Gangnam and non-Gangnam areas are diverging, particularly with the buying activity of those in their 30s and 40s concentrated in Gangbuk and the outskirts of Seoul.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 08:04:00
  • Youth Jeonse Limit Doubles as LH Faces Pricing and Deposit Recovery Challenges
    Youth Jeonse Limit Doubles as LH Faces Pricing and Deposit Recovery Challenges The introduction of the universal youth jeonse rental program has doubled the support limit for young individuals in the metropolitan area from 120 million won to 240 million won. While this expands housing options for the youth, concerns have been raised about the increased burden of housing price assessments and deposit recovery for public housing providers like LH.On August 13, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced the establishment of the universal youth jeonse rental program, separate from the existing youth jeonse rental scheme. The program targets young individuals aged 19 to 39 who do not own a home, relaxing criteria by excluding household income and asset assessments and selecting tenants through a lottery system instead of a point-based system. The existing youth jeonse rental supply and eligibility criteria will remain unchanged.The most significant change is the increase in the support scale. The maximum support limit for individuals in the metropolitan area will rise from 120 million won to 240 million won. However, the loan-to-value ratio within the support limit has been reduced from 95% to 90%, increasing the financial burden on tenants.The existing youth jeonse rental program also supports single-family homes, multi-family homes, multi-unit dwellings, and certain qualifying residential officetels. When a tenant finds a property, LH verifies the price, mortgage rights, and priority tenant rights before directly contracting with the landlord and subsequently leasing it back to the tenant.As the support limit increases, the amount of deposits that the public must manage per contract also rises. This is particularly challenging for villas and officetels, where it can be difficult to determine appropriate sale and rental prices due to fewer transactions and significant variations in individual property characteristics.According to the Korea Real Estate Agency, the nationwide jeonse rental rate for officetels in the second quarter of this year was 86.04%. In the metropolitan area, it was 86.27%, while in Seoul, it stood at 84.50%. The closer the jeonse deposit is to the sale price, the greater the burden of deposit recovery may become in the event of a price drop or landlord insolvency.Indeed, there have been cases of undelivered deposits in the LH jeonse rental program. According to materials submitted to the National Assembly, there were 4,942 cases of undelivered deposits from 2019 to 2023, totaling 245.4 billion won. Of these, 1,952 cases, amounting to 76.3 billion won, had not been recovered as of August 2024.However, some experts argue that the risk of jeonse fraud is not as significant in public contracts, as the public conducts direct rights analysis during the contracting phase. Lee Eun-hyung, a researcher at the Korea Construction Policy Institute, stated, “Since the public verifies contract-related documents during the jeonse fund support process, the risk of jeonse fraud in public rental schemes is likely to be low.”The government plans to revise the jeonse rental operational guidelines in December to establish specific operational standards. With the support limit doubling, the potential losses the public may incur from misjudging appropriate prices could also increase. The key challenge for the new system will be how effectively it can filter the levels of deposit relative to market prices and rights relationships.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 08:04:00
  • Kim Min-seok Accelerates Appointments, Emphasizing Competence Over Balance
    Kim Min-seok Accelerates Appointments, Emphasizing Competence Over Balance Kim Min-seok, the leader of the Democratic Party, has expedited key appointments since taking office on August 17, prioritizing competence over balance in his selections. Following the usual appointments, the party plans to announce further innovative appointments by the end of next week, with most lawmakers expected to take on roles.According to the Democratic Party on August 22, spokesperson Park Seong-jun announced the appointments of political officials the previous day. The appointments include Kim Won-yi as the chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, Jang Cheol-min as the chair of the Public Communication Committee, Yang Bu-nam as the chair of the Legal Committee, Min Byeong-deok as the senior vice chair of the Economic Policy Committee, Heo Young as the senior vice chair of the Social Policy Committee, Heo Seong-moo and Park Hee-seung as the standing vice chairs, Kim Gi-pyo as the head of the Ethics and Inspection Committee, and Kim Hyun as the head of the Education and Training Institute.Additionally, Choi Jae-sung, a former lawmaker, and Kim Kyo-heung were appointed as the heads of the party leader's advisory group, while Yoon Jong-gun was named the head of the Comprehensive Situation Room for the upcoming general election. Kang Wi-eon, a former vice governor of South Jeolla Province, was appointed as the head of the party leader's political coordination office. Kang Deuk-gu was designated as the head of the Democratic Research Institute's Innovation Task Force, and Kim Woo-young and Lee Don-tae were appointed as the heads of the Gangneung ITS Support Task Force.On August 20, during a general meeting, Kim announced the nominations of Jeon Yong-ki and Kwon Mi-kyung, the chair of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions' Public Solidarity Federation, as the appointed top committee members. Jeon will represent the youth sector, while Kwon will focus on labor issues.Furthermore, Kim appointed Han Jeong-ae as the Secretary General and Kwon Chil-seung as the Policy Chair. Notably, both Han and Kwon previously served as the Minister of Environment and Minister of SMEs and Startups, respectively, during the Moon Jae-in administration. Reports indicate that former President Moon praised Kim's balanced appointments during a meeting, to which Kim responded that he prioritized competence over balance.On his first day in office, Kim also appointed spokesperson Park Seong-jun and Kim Tae-seon as the head of the party leader's secretariat. He further established the positions of senior deputy secretary general (Moon Jin-seok), organizational deputy secretary general (Ahn Tae-jun), publicity chair (Kim Nam-jun), chair of the Good Local Government Committee (Shin Jeong-hoon), head of the Democratic Party TV preparation task force (Han Woong-hyun), and spokespersons (Jo Gye-won, Lee Yong-woo, and Shin Hyun-young).Since taking office, Kim has begun preparations for the upcoming general election scheduled for 2028. With discussions surrounding the by-elections for the Gangneung National Assembly seat and the Seoul mayoral by-election, he aims to ensure thorough election preparations. Kim has expressed that during this party convention, he is someone who has led the party to victories in general, local, and presidential elections. It remains to be seen whether the newly formed leadership of the Democratic Party can successfully regain the declining support among young voters. 2026-08-22 08:04:00
  • Debate Erupts Over Re-election of Local Party Chairs in South Koreas People Power Party
    Debate Erupts Over Re-election of Local Party Chairs in South Korea's People Power Party The People Power Party is facing internal turmoil over the re-election of local party council chairs. Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk has expressed a desire to re-elect all local chairs through member voting. However, party lawmakers have largely agreed that it would be better to re-elect the current chairs through the existing operating committee. The matter now rests with the Supreme Council.According to the party's constitution and regulations, the term of local party chairs ends at the end of August in even-numbered years (Article 26 of the Local Organization Operation Regulations). Article 27 states that local chairs can be elected either by all party members or responsible members in the area, or by the operating committee selecting the current chair. Other methods determined by the Supreme Council are also permissible.Under these regulations, it has been customary for the operating committee to automatically reappoint the current chair even after their term ends, unless the chair resigns or is recommended for replacement by the party's audit committee.This issue gained traction after Jang emphasized on August 12 that he would not operate under the assumption that the term of local chairs would automatically extend. This announcement indicated that local party chairs across the country would face elections through member voting.Political analysts suggest that the position of local party chair is closely tied to the upcoming general election in two years, making the debate intense. It is undeniable that local chairs hold an advantageous position during the nomination process for the general election. Additionally, since local party councils play a crucial role in grassroots politics, there is reluctance to relinquish such significant authority in their districts.In fact, Jang's proposal for a 'universal re-endorsement vote' has sparked strong opposition within the party. During a recent general meeting, concerns were raised that conducting member voting amid the party's current turmoil could divide the membership. There were also calls to prioritize internal unity to present a united front against the opposition.One lawmaker noted, "While the final decision rests with the Supreme Council, there is significant backlash from lawmakers. If this is pushed through, the leadership may struggle to manage the fallout." He added, "There are concerns that if current lawmakers lose in the local chair elections, it could weaken their sense of belonging and negatively impact party cohesion."Supporters of Jang's approach argue that member voting for local chair elections represents a bold relinquishment of power by the party leader. They contend that since the party leader has stepped back from authority, local chairs should also give up their privileges for the sake of party reform. Furthermore, it is argued that since incumbents have a significant advantage in member voting, if they lose, it would indicate a lack of competitiveness in the general election, making a change logical.Meanwhile, the People Power Party plans to hold a Supreme Council meeting on the 24th to discuss the method for electing local party chairs, whose terms end at the end of this month. 2026-08-22 07:04:00
  • Heat Wave Persists Despite Seasonal Change: When Will It End?
    Heat Wave Persists Despite Seasonal Change: When Will It End? "The saying that the heat subsides after Chuseo does not seem to hold true this year."Although August 23 marks Chuseo, a seasonal point when summer heat is expected to wane, temperatures across the country are forecasted to exceed 30 degrees Celsius. In fact, rising humidity may make the heat feel even more intense than the actual temperatures.Heat Advisory Continues with Highs of 34 Degrees on ChuseoAccording to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the morning low temperatures on Chuseo will range from 21 to 26 degrees Celsius, with daytime highs expected between 29 and 34 degrees. This is still higher or comparable to the average daytime highs of 27 to 31 degrees typically seen around this time.Heat advisories remain in effect for parts of the capital region, southern inland areas of Gangwon, Chungcheong, and southern provinces, with the perceived temperatures likely to reach around 33 degrees in most regions for the time being.In areas experiencing rain on Chuseo, temperatures may temporarily drop, but the heat is expected to return once the rain subsides.The Korea Meteorological Administration attributes the ongoing hot weather to the influence of the North Pacific High, which is bringing warm and humid air into the country.Will It Cool Down After August 23? Next Week Still UncertainRecent forecasts from the Korea Meteorological Administration suggest that above-average temperatures may persist into next week. This indicates that late summer heat could continue, with daytime highs reaching the low 30s.This year, the ongoing influence of the North Pacific High after Chuseo could be a significant factor. If warm and humid air continues to flow in from the edges of the high, both temperatures and humidity will remain elevated, making it difficult for the heat to subside.Analysis from the Korea Meteorological Administration shows that the duration of heat waves and tropical nights in Korea has been increasing over the years. Over the past 53 years, the average number of heat wave days has increased by 1.8 days every decade, while tropical nights have increased by 1.6 days. In the last decade, the number of heat wave days and tropical nights has risen approximately 2.2 times and 3 times, respectively, compared to the previous decade.Notably, in recent years, heat waves have often extended into late August, and tropical nights have been observed from mid-August to early September. In coastal areas and Jeju, tropical nights may continue until early September even after heat waves have ended.When Will the Heat End?The challenge lies in pinpointing the exact date when the heat wave will conclude.Temperatures can fluctuate significantly within days due to the strength of the North Pacific High, moisture around the Korean Peninsula, upper atmospheric pressure systems, and the movement of typhoons and tropical depressions.However, based on past weather patterns and current forecasts, it seems that August 23 may not mark the end of the heat but rather a transition from the peak summer heat to late summer warmth.The real indicators of the onset of autumn will likely be how quickly the intensity of the heat diminishes from late August and when nighttime temperatures begin to drop.Current forecasts suggest that a clear arrival of autumn on Chuseo is unlikely this year. 2026-08-22 06:12:00
  • Healing Cafe Opens at Korea Culture and Tourism Institute
    Healing Cafe Opens at Korea Culture and Tourism Institute The Korea Culture and Tourism Institute has opened a one-day cafe for its employees, where members of the labor-management council personally served drinks and engaged with staff.On August 19, the institute, in collaboration with the labor-management council, operated a 'Labor-Management Healing Cafe,' as announced on August 22.This event was designed to provide a brief respite for employees during the summer and to create an opportunity for informal conversations between labor and management.A food truck cafe was set up at the entrance of the institute, where council members handed out refreshing beverages and greeted employees. To reduce the use of disposable items, staff were encouraged to use personal tumblers.The institute hopes that this event, which allows employees to meet naturally in a casual setting, will enhance understanding and trust between labor and management.Hwang Kyo-ik, the head of the institute, expressed hope that the Labor-Management Healing Cafe would provide a time for employees to communicate and share small joys and relaxation. He added that the institute aims to foster a culture of mutual respect and trust, creating an organization where employees can work happily.The Korea Culture and Tourism Institute plans to continue expanding communication opportunities among its members and to promote a healthy organizational culture through the labor-management council.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 06:04:00
  • KOSPI Volatile Amid U.S. Interest Rate Shock; NVIDIA Earnings Next Key Focus
    KOSPI Volatile Amid U.S. Interest Rate Shock; NVIDIA Earnings Next Key Focus The domestic stock market experienced significant fluctuations due to rising U.S. long-term interest rates. However, a major shareholder return announcement from SK Hynix and expectations for semiconductor earnings helped support the index, partially recovering losses. Next week, NVIDIA's earnings report, the U.S. Jackson Hole meeting, and the Bank of Korea's monetary policy committee are all scheduled, putting the market's judgment on interest rates and the AI investment cycle to the test.According to the Korea Exchange, on August 21, the KOSPI closed at 6,912.95, up 60.37 points (0.88%) from the previous trading day. After a sharp drop of 5.80% on August 19, the KOSPI rebounded with a 5.89% increase on August 20, quickly recovering some of its losses. For the week of August 18-21, the KOSPI fell 0.93%, while the KOSDAQ dropped 7.25%.The primary factor affecting the stock market this week was the rise in U.S. long-term interest rates. The yield on 30-year U.S. Treasury bonds exceeded 5.3%, and the 10-year yield rose to around 4.7%, increasing the valuation pressure on growth stocks due to higher discount rates. Factors contributing to the rise in long-term rates included increased fiscal spending by various countries and a surge in corporate bond issuance by big tech companies for AI infrastructure investments. Additionally, ongoing geopolitical uncertainties in the Middle East have dampened investor sentiment towards risk assets.On August 19, the shock from rising interest rates was directly reflected in the domestic stock market, causing a sharp decline in the KOSPI. However, the turning point came on August 20 with the announcement of shareholder returns. SK Hynix revealed a plan for a 40 trillion won stock buyback and complete cancellation of shares, which quickly improved investor sentiment. Analysts noted that the expanded shareholder returns from Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix have also led to improved foreign investment and a stronger won. In fact, foreign investors maintained a net buying trend this week, contributing to the index's rebound.Nevertheless, the valuation pressure from rising long-term interest rates remains. Although the U.S. Treasury's expansion of its long-term bond buyback program has somewhat eased rate concerns, structural fiscal deficits, the burden of Treasury supply, and ongoing corporate funding demands for AI investments mean that long-term rates may not stabilize quickly.Next week, several key events are set to influence the direction of global financial markets. On August 26, Hyundai Motor's 2026 CEO Investor Day and the U.S. July Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index are scheduled. On August 27, NVIDIA's earnings report and the Bank of Korea's monetary policy committee meeting will take place. The Jackson Hole meeting will also occur from August 27-29. Changes in U.S. July durable goods orders and the Bank of Korea's growth and inflation outlook will be significant variables.Particularly, NVIDIA's earnings report will be closely watched not only for revenue figures but also for the growth rate of data center revenues, demand for Blackwell, future guidance, and the sustainability of capital expenditures (CAPEX) from clients. As market interest shifts from merely confirming AI demand to assessing how long AI investments can be sustained, guidance is likely to play a crucial role in determining stock price direction.At Jackson Hole, Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh is scheduled to deliver his first speech. The market is expected to focus on the Fed's views regarding price stability, balance sheet reduction, and the Treasury's long-term bond buyback, rather than specific interest rate paths. The Bank of Korea's monetary policy committee will be a focal point for decisions on interest rates, changes in growth and inflation forecasts reflecting the semiconductor supercycle, and assessments of the declining won-dollar exchange rate.Analysts suggest that while short-term volatility may continue next week, the recent sharp decline has somewhat alleviated valuation pressures, making it likely that stocks with confirmed earnings will attempt a rebound. However, if U.S. long-term interest rates rise again or NVIDIA's guidance falls short of market expectations, a reassessment of valuations for AI-related stocks may resume, indicating the need for a strategy that responds after confirming key events.Na Jeong-hwan, a researcher at NH Investment & Securities, stated, "If NVIDIA's earnings confirm the continuation of the AI cycle and volatility in U.S. Treasury rates calms following Jackson Hole, normalization of valuations is expected to continue. If the KOSPI stabilizes around the 7,000-point level, it will be effective to broaden the approach to non-semiconductor sectors as AI monetization is confirmed in earnings."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 06:04:00