The broader chip sector, including SK Hynix, faces challenges from sluggish demand for autos and electronics. Despite recent gains, SK Hynix's stock appears pricey, trading at a price-to-book ratio above its three-year average. Investors are being drawn away from tech stocks towards sectors like shipbuilding and nuclear power, anticipating benefits from President Donald Trump's policies. Additionally, domestic investors expect corporate reforms to gain momentum following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Smaller, domestically focused companies are seen as potential outperformers, with SK Hynix's gains potentially lagging behind these firms.
Key takeaways:
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- SK Hynix's 30% AI-driven rally this year is under pressure due to political issues and valuations pushing investors towards domestic-focused companies.
- Korean retail traders are making significant withdrawals from SK Hynix, with the stock on track for its best January since 2009.
- Foreign investors view memory as a laggard in the AI space, and SK Hynix's stock is considered pricey with a high price-to-book ratio.
- Investors are shifting focus from tech to sectors like shipbuilding and nuclear power, expecting benefits from Trump's policies and domestic corporate reforms.