1. What Drove the Surprising Performance?

Kyobo Securities achieved consolidated operating profit of KRW 137.7 billion and net income of KRW 106 billion in H1 2025. These figures represent a substantial increase of 83.3% and 45.2%, respectively, compared to the same period last year. This strong performance was primarily driven by robust growth in proprietary trading and investment banking (IB). Notably, the IB segment recorded remarkable growth of over 280% year-over-year.

2. Are There Any Red Flags?

The positive aspects aren’t the whole story. The derivatives segment reported an operating loss of KRW 56.7 billion, revealing vulnerability to market volatility. Furthermore, macroeconomic uncertainties, including increasing interest rate and exchange rate volatility, and the potential for global economic slowdown, pose potential risks.

3. Action Plan for Investors

  • Monitor Positive Factors: Verify the sustainability of the growth momentum in proprietary trading and IB.
  • Risk Management: Pay close attention to risk management in the derivatives segment and strategies to address macroeconomic changes.
  • Maintain a Long-Term Perspective: Develop investment strategies with a long-term view, avoiding being swayed by short-term market fluctuations.