South Korea’s 10 largest securities firms posted a combined net profit of 5.9362 trillion won in the second quarter, marking a record result. The total rose 37% from the previous quarter and 141% year-on-year, led by firms including Mirae Asset, Korea Investment, Samsung, KB, NH, Shinhan, Meritz, Kiwoom, Hana, and Daishin. Despite the strong earnings, brokerage shares have remained under pressure. The Korea Exchange securities industry index closed at 9,804.97 points on May 9 after reaching a yearly high, then retreated sharply. The index moved into the 6,400-7,400 range in June, fell further to the 4,700-6,400 range in July, and has fluctuated around 5,000-5,500 this month.