Index composition: S&P 500 and NASDAQ ask different questions
The S&P 500 broadly represents large US companies, while the NASDAQ Composite covers Nasdaq listings. Check technology exposure and weighting before comparison.
GLOBAL MARKET
Read overseas indexes with rates, currencies and market hours
The same company news can be priced differently depending on local rates, currency and regular or extended-hours trading. Start with index composition and base currency.
CROSS-MARKET GUIDE
Six bases for comparing global markets
National indexes are not interchangeable products; distinguish sectors, currency and trading systems.
Rates affect discount rates and financing costs
Policy and government-bond rates affect growth valuations, bank profitability and borrowing through different channels. Review the reason for a rate move and its maturity.
The dollar affects converted returns and company results
A stronger dollar can improve a Korean investor's converted return while pressuring translation for US multinationals. Separate investor and company exposure.
Earnings: separate reported results from guidance
Review revenue and earnings versus expectations along with guidance, margins, backlog and one-offs. Thin after-hours prices can differ from the next regular session.
Sector rotation divides performance inside one index
Technology, finance, energy and healthcare respond differently to rates and growth. Sector ETFs are context and do not replace company-level analysis.
Sessions: verify date, time zone and holidays
Korean dates can differ from local trading dates, and daylight saving changes opening times. Do not mix previous close, premarket and after-hours quotes.