PRE-MARKET SOUTH KOREAN STOCKS NEWS: Samsung Electronics (005930 KS) plans over KRW 110tln (exp. 65tln) of capex and R&D spending during 2026 and is seeking meaningful M&A for robots, medical tech, auto electronics and HVAC; Japanese markets are closed
Samsung Electronics (005930 KS) - Co. plans over KRW 110tln (exp. 65tln) of capex and R&D spending during 2026 and is seeking meaningful M&A for robots, medical tech, auto electronics and HVAC, while it was also reported that the Co. is to close its TV plant in Slovakia. (Yonhap)
Samsung Life Insurance (032830 KS) - Co. said it will sell around KRW 1.32tln worth of its shares in Samsung Electronics. (Yonhap)
SK Hynix (000660 KS) - Co. is targeting TSMC’s (2330 TT) 3nm process to power its HBM4E chips as it looks to challenge Samsung. (ChosunBiz)
Energy - Qatar may have to declare a force majeure on long-term LNG contracts with South Korea and others. (Yonhap)
Samsung Electronics is planning to significantly increase its capital expenditures and R&D spending, now targeting over KRW 110 trillion, compared to the previous estimate of 65 trillion. This aggressive investment signals a strategic pivot towards advancements in key sectors like robotics and medical technology, potentially reshaping its competitive landscape and attracting market interest. Moreover, their intention to pursue meaningful M&A in these fields indicates a belief in consolidation as a driver for growth in the tech sector, which could have a sizable impact on both their stock performance and related industries.