FTSE Russell Holds Off Adding Korean Bonds To Global Index

FTSE Russell has held off including South Korea in its global bond index. The country will remain on the waitlist for another six months (see this BBG link for more details).

• FTSE noted: "The South Korean market authorities have undertaken, or are in the process of undertaking, several initiatives intended to improve the structure and accessibility of the South Korean capital markets for international investors."
• Reforms announced by the government, include expanding onshore FX trading hours and an agreement with Euroclear for settlement around KTB's. Next year is seen as potentially the more likely window for inclusion in the FTSE index, as these reforms can take stronger effect by then.