Core Viewpoint - Global hedge funds are heavily betting on the options market, believing that the long-underestimated South Korean won will replicate the recent record appreciation trend of the New Taiwan dollar against the US dollar [1][4]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - There has been a significant increase in demand for bearish options on the USD/KRW pair, with a put-to-call ratio of 3:2, indicating a strong bearish sentiment towards the dollar and bullish outlook for the won [1][5]. - The trading volume of USD/KRW options surged to its highest level of the year, reflecting market speculation on the potential direction of the won amid discussions between South Korea and the US regarding currency negotiations [4][5]. - The optimism surrounding global trade dynamics, particularly the easing of tensions between the US and China, has led investors to believe that the South Korean authorities may tolerate a stronger currency [4][6]. Group 2: Investment Sentiment - The recent substantial appreciation of the New Taiwan dollar has reshaped investor expectations for Asian currency exchange rates, positioning the won as a likely candidate to follow suit [4][6]. - Hedge funds are increasingly interested in which currencies might replicate the New Taiwan dollar's sharp gains, leading to a notable demand for both digital and vanilla put options on the USD/KRW pair [4][6]. - The risk reversal indicator, which measures the cost of hedging against a decline in the USD/KRW exchange rate, approached a 21-year high last week, further emphasizing the market's bearish outlook on the dollar [5]. Group 3: Economic Implications - The Trump administration's trade policies and potential acceptance of a weaker dollar could significantly impact the USD/KRW exchange rate, as many investors view the won as a proxy for changes in trade dynamics between the US and Asia [6][7]. - Analysts from major banks, including JPMorgan and Deutsche Bank, maintain a bearish stance on the dollar, suggesting that the current rebound in the dollar index may be temporary and that a prolonged dollar bear market is beginning [7]. - The erosion of the "American exceptionalism" narrative is seen as a contributing factor to the declining confidence in dollar assets, with market participants increasingly skeptical of the US's economic policies [7].