Asian Markets Crash: South Korea’s KOSPI Falls 8%, Nikkei Drops 4%; What to Expect From Sensex and Nifty?
Stock Market Today, October 15, 2026: Asian stock markets witnessed heavy selling on Thursday, with South Korea’s KOSPI falling by as much as 8% and Japan’s Nikkei 225 declining 4%. In the US, the Nasdaq dropped nearly 2%, adding to concerns among global investors.
Higher-than-expected US inflation figures and growing concerns over investments in artificial intelligence (AI) companies have weakened market sentiment. The negative global cues could also affect the opening of India’s benchmark indices, the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty 50.
Technology and semiconductor stocks faced particular pressure across Asian markets. The MSCI Asia-Pacific index excluding Japan also declined by around 1.2%.
US Inflation Raises Concerns Over Interest Rates
Annual consumer inflation in the US rose to 3.7% in September, compared with 3.4% in August, according to the figures cited in the report.
The increase has raised concerns that the US Federal Reserve may keep interest rates higher for longer or consider further rate hikes instead of cutting them.
Higher interest rates can make investors more cautious about riskier assets. Technology companies may face additional pressure because their future earnings and expansion plans often depend on substantial capital investment.
AI and Semiconductor Stocks Face Selling Pressure
Technology and semiconductor stocks came under pressure as investors reassessed the potential returns from investments in artificial intelligence.
Companies are spending heavily on AI infrastructure, data centres and chip manufacturing. Investors are increasingly concerned about whether these investments will generate returns in line with expectations.
The weakness in US technology and semiconductor stocks also affected Asian markets, where several major companies are closely linked to the AI and semiconductor supply chains.
South Korea’s market faced particularly sharp losses, partly because semiconductor companies account for a significant share of its stock market.
What Could Happen to the Sensex and Nifty?
Weakness across Asian markets and negative signals from the US could lead to a cautious or weak start for Indian equities on Thursday.
According to the report, GIFT Nifty was trading at 22,609 at 7:50 am, down just 13 points. This indicated a potentially modestly weaker opening, despite the sharp declines in some overseas markets.
However, GIFT Nifty provides only an indication of the possible opening trend. The actual direction of the Sensex and Nifty will depend on domestic market sentiment, investor activity and developments during the trading session.
Investors are likely to monitor global technology stocks, interest-rate expectations and broader market sentiment as trading progresses.
FAQs
1. What happened to Asian stock markets on October 15, 2026?
Asian markets saw heavy selling, with South Korea’s KOSPI falling by as much as 8% and Japan’s Nikkei 225 declining 4%, according to the report.
2. How much did the Nasdaq fall?
The Nasdaq declined by nearly 2%.
3. Why are global stock markets under pressure?
The reported reasons include higher-than-expected US inflation and concerns about the returns companies may generate from heavy AI-related investments.
4. What was the US inflation rate in September?
The annual consumer inflation rate rose to 3.7% in September from 3.4% in August, according to the supplied report.
5. How could US inflation affect stock markets?
Higher inflation may increase expectations that interest rates will remain elevated or rise further, potentially putting pressure on riskier assets.
6. Why did South Korea’s stock market face a sharp decline?
The report points to selling pressure on technology and semiconductor stocks. South Korea’s substantial exposure to semiconductor companies contributed to the market’s weakness.
7. What was the GIFT Nifty level mentioned in the report?
GIFT Nifty was at 22,609 at 7:50 am, down 13 points.
8. Does a weak GIFT Nifty guarantee a fall in the Sensex and Nifty?
No. GIFT Nifty indicates a possible opening trend, but actual market movements can differ during the trading session.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Stock market investments are subject to market risks. Investors should assess their financial circumstances and consult a qualified financial adviser before making investment decisions.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
