Government Tightens Rules for Samsung, SK Hynix Leverage ETF Investments by Mandating 30 Million Won Cash Deposit

To curb market volatility caused by single-stock leverage ETFs in Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, the government will significantly raise investment barriers and increase trading units starting in November. Previously, investment eligibility was granted if the total value of stocks and bonds in an account exceeded 15 million won; this has now been changed to require a minimum cash deposit of 30 million won in the account.

Furthermore, starting in November, trading of leverage ETFs, previously possible in single units, will be restricted to 20-unit increments. Mandatory investor education hours have increased from two to three, and investors must undergo retraining if their assessment score does not exceed 60 points.

The government will temporarily suspend new listings of products related to single stocks until the market stabilizes. Financial Services Commission Chairman Yi Eog-yun stated that caution is needed regarding temporary trading halts, as they could lead to market confusion.