Group 1 - The South Korean stock market experienced a sudden drop, with the Seoul Composite Index falling nearly 4%, marking the largest decline since early April, primarily due to government plans to increase taxes on corporations and investors [4][5] - The proposed capital gains tax threshold will decrease from 5 billion KRW (approximately 71,425 USD) to 1 billion KRW, alongside an increase in transaction tax and a rise in the corporate income tax rate from 24% to 25%, reversing previous tax cuts [4][6] - The proposed tax changes have sparked strong backlash among retail investors, with a nationwide petition for immediate withdrawal gaining significant public support [5][6] Group 2 - Despite the recent downturn, the Seoul Composite Index has risen over 30% this year, benefiting from optimistic sentiment surrounding corporate governance reforms initiated by the new government [5] - The government, led by President Lee Jae-myung, aims to boost weak fiscal revenues to increase subsidies and stimulate consumption amid slowing economic growth [6][9] - The proposed tax adjustments are causing concern among investors, particularly as disappointing earnings reports from some companies shift market focus towards government policy reforms [9] Group 3 - Samsung Electronics, South Korea's largest market-cap stock, has seen consecutive declines due to its earnings report falling short of analyst expectations, despite previous market optimism regarding its performance in memory chips and foundry services [6][9] - The government's tax proposals, including an increase in stock transaction tax from 0.15% to 0.2% and a new tax structure for dividend income, are viewed as unexpected negative news by the market [9]
突发!韩国,“崩了”!
中国基金报·2025-08-01 06:28