EmergingMarket News & Analysis

MSCI Keeps South Korea (KOSPI) as Emerging Market Despite Issues

MSCI has retained South Korea's classification as an 'emerging market' following a recent review, despite ongoing concerns regarding the limited convertibility of the Korean won in offshore markets. The decision leaves South Korea off the MSCI Developed Markets watchlist, which could impact foreign investment levels. The index provider's extended review of Indonesia is attributed to market accessibility concerns, with potential downgrade risks looming for its status. Analysts noted that an upgrade for South Korea could alleviate the 'Korea discount' on stock valuations compared to global peers.