South Korea: Economy is now seen expanding 1.3% in 2023 – UOB

Pablo Piovano FXStreet

UOB Group’s Economist Ho Woei Chen reviews the latest flash Q4 GDP figures in South Korea.

Key Takeaways

“South Korea’s advance GDP moderated to a growth of 1.4% y/y in 4Q22 from 3.1% y/y in 3Q22. The economy also recorded its first sequential decline since the technical recession in 1H20, contracting by -0.4% q/q SA in 4Q22. For the full-year, South Korea’s GDP grew 2.6% in 2022 compared to 4.1% in 2021.”

“Private consumption recovery turned out to be weaker-than-expected while external demand slowed.”

“We now expect a slower economic growth of 1.3% in 2023 compared to our earlier forecast of 1.7%.”

“We maintain our view that the BOK is done with its rate hikes and would stay on hold at 3.50% through 2023.”

Author

Pablo Piovano

FXStreet

Born and bred in Argentina, Pablo has been carrying on with his passion for FX markets and trading since his first college years.

EUR/USD falls to near 1.1600 due to persistent bearish bias

EUR/USD depreciates after registering modest gains in the previous session, trading around 1.1610 during the Asian hours on Thursday. The technical analysis of the daily chart suggests a persistent bearish bias as the EUR/USD pair remains within the descending channel pattern.

GBP/USD underperforms as UK faces stagflation risks amid Middle East war

The Pound Sterling trades lower against its major currency peers, is down 0.22% around 1.3340 against the US Dollar, during the Asian trade on Thursday. The British currency faces selling pressures amid fears that the United Kingdom economy could face stagflation risks due to higher energy prices, a situation in which inflation accelerates with economic growth and employment conditions remaining stagnant.

Gold climbs near $5,200 as Iran war fuels safe-haven demand

Gold price extends its gains for the second successive session on Thursday as traders seek safety amid the ongoing war in the Middle East. US and Israeli strikes across Iranian territory and widespread Iranian missile and drone retaliation across the Middle East, including attacks on regional targets and military sites, prolong the crisis and its impact.

Top Crypto Gainers: Decred, Zcash, and Dogecoin lead recovery as Bitcoin crosses $72,000

Bitcoin trades above $72,500 at press time on Thursday, holding its 6% gain from the previous day, contributing to a broader market recovery. The total cryptocurrency market capitalization stands at over $2.43 trillion as the broader market sentiment improves significantly.

First Venezuela, now Iran: The US-China energy war escalates

At first glance, the latest escalation involving the United States with both Iran and Venezuela looks like another chapter in a long-running geopolitical story. But viewed through a broader strategic lens, something else may be unfolding: Energy.

Cardano Price Analysis: Approaches key trendline amid bearish sentiment

Cardano (ADA) price is approaching its descending trendline around $0.28 at the time of writing, set to shape the next directional move. The derivatives metrics paint a bearish picture, with ADA’s Open Interest continuing to fall and short bets rising among traders.