韩元跌至金融危机以来最低水平 韩国央行会否出手

Core Viewpoint - The South Korean won has been depreciating against the US dollar, nearing its lowest level since the 2008 financial crisis, following the announcement of 24-hour trading for the won starting next year, increasing pressure on the Bank of Korea to intervene in the foreign exchange market [1][2][4]. Group 1: Currency Performance - The won has declined by 6% over the past three months, the largest drop among major currencies in the Asia-Pacific region, influenced by ongoing capital outflows from the stock market and increased overseas investments by residents [2]. - The won's exchange rate against the dollar recently approached 1487.45, just 1% shy of its historical high, marking the lowest level since March 2009 [1][2]. Group 2: Market Reactions - Following the announcement of the 24-hour trading initiative, the Korean stock index fell by 2.3%, and the won also depreciated, reaching its lowest level since mid-May [3]. - Despite the potential for increased global liquidity for the won with the upcoming market liberalization, immediate foreign capital inflows are not expected [3]. Group 3: Central Bank's Position - The Bank of Korea is under scrutiny regarding potential foreign exchange interventions, with the governor indicating a willingness to act if excessive volatility is observed, while downplaying the current depreciation trend [4]. - The economic environment is complex for the Bank of Korea, as the IMF forecasts a mere 0.9% growth for the South Korean economy this year, the lowest among major Asian economies, complicating the decision to lower interest rates to support economic recovery [4]. Group 4: Bond Market Pressure - South Korean bonds are also facing pressure, with the 10-year government bond yield rising to a 16-month high, as the market increasingly bets that the current monetary easing cycle is coming to an end [5]. - There are expectations that the Bank of Korea may require national pension institutions to sell dollars as a strategy to support the won, a tactic previously employed in late 2022 and early 2023 [5].