With military tensions between the United States and Iran entering a lull and the U.S. Federal Reserve freezing its benchmark interest rate for the fifth consecutive time, risk aversion sentiment in the domestic stock market is showing signs of easing.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on August 2 that he would delay new attack plans against Iran. He stated that an agreement had been reached on a framework to resume commercial vessel transit through the Strait of Hormuz and to end threats related to Iran's nuclear program. Earlier, at the regular FOMC meeting held on July 28-29, the Fed decided to maintain the benchmark rate at 3.50-3.75%, marking its fifth consecutive freeze. However, with growing concerns over Middle East-driven inflation, some members argued for a rate hike.

With geopolitical risks and monetary policy uncertainty simultaneously at play, domestic stock market volatility is reacting sensitively to these two variables. Nevertheless, individual stocks and event-driven trends are unfolding independently.

■ Alteogen Implements Free Stock Split on August 5

Alteogen, the top company by market capitalization on KOSDAQ, is a prime example. Alteogen announced on the 4th that it would implement a free stock split for its common shares. The split applies to Alteogen common shares, with the base price determined at 267,000 won. The effective date is August 5, and from that day forward, a new stock price will be formed based on the adjusted reference price.

The ex-rights adjustment following a free stock split is a procedure that theoretically adjusts the stock price in proportion to the increased number of shares from the allocation of new shares. It should be noted that this is not an event that signifies a change in the company's fundamentals.

■ Future Checkpoints

A key variable to monitor going forward is the actual trading pattern following the ex-rights date. Additionally, statements from Federal Reserve members could impact the valuations of large-cap stocks and should be watched closely.

[※ This article is intended for informational purposes only, and investment decisions and their consequences are the sole responsibility of the investor. As matters related to specific stocks and companies are highly volatile and fluid, please verify the latest disclosures and consult multiple sources before making investment decisions. This article was partially assisted by AI.]