This year, the number of corporations entering the KOSDAQ market through the technology growth special provision reached a record high of 42. It was found that the amount raised by newly listed corporations in the KOSDAQ market was 2.44 trillion won, marking a decrease for the third consecutive year.
According to the Korea Exchange on the 26th, the number of corporations newly listed in the KOSDAQ market this year was 128, which is 4 less than last year’s record high of 132. By type, there were 46 general corporations, 42 technology growth special provision corporations, and 40 special purpose acquisition companies (SPAC).
The amount raised by KOSDAQ listed corporations this year was 2.44 trillion won, continuing to decrease for three consecutive years since 2021 (3.58 trillion won). The Korea Exchange explained that the reduction in the number of newly listed corporations was due to high uncertainty, including the U.S. presidential election.
By industry, the newly listed corporations included the highest number from the bio sector at 21. This was followed by ▲ machinery and equipment (11), ▲ software (9), ▲ electrical and electronic (9), ▲ precision instruments (7), and ▲ semiconductors (6). In terms of type, there were 46 general corporations, while technology growth special provision corporations and SPACs were reported at 42 and 40, respectively.
The number of technology growth special provision corporations reached 42, the highest since the system was introduced in 2005. Of the bio corporations listed under the special provision, 16 (38%) were included, with 7 being medical device manufacturers and 4 being new drug development companies. Among non-bio corporations, 17 from materials, parts, and equipment, and 5 from software were listed under the technology special provision.
The number of certified materials, parts, and equipment corporations listed has also increased. This year, 32 certified corporations were listed in the KOSDAQ market, an increase of 4 from the previous year. The number of corporations listed in the KOSDAQ through the technology growth special provision was 21, the most on record, accounting for 66% of the total. Additionally, the number of listings through SPAC merger methods reached 16, marking the highest since this method was permitted in 2021.
The Korea Exchange noted that "the KOSDAQ market functioned as an important funding source for small and venture corporations with technological expertise and growth potential, despite the challenging business environment caused by high interest rates and economic slowdown this year."
Meanwhile, the number of SPAC merger listings reached 16, the highest since the permitting of merger listings in 2021.
The Korea Exchange stated that "we will actively promote the discovery and listing of promising small and venture corporations that will lead innovation and advanced industries in the Korean economy." It also noted that "efforts to enhance market value and protect investors will continue."