The KOSDAQ closed slightly higher in the regular session on the 14th, extending its streak of gains. The index finished at 864.65, in the mid-860s, and has now risen for five consecutive trading days since the 10th.

On the day, the KOSDAQ index closed at 864.65, up 3.28 points (0.38%) from the previous trading day. During the session, the index showed wide swings, rising as high as 879.29 before being pushed back down to 845.41, but ultimately managed to finish in positive territory. Top market-cap stocks saw a clear divide between winners and losers.

■ EcoPro BM, HLB, and Eo Technics Gain... Eo Technics Soars 6.74%

Among advancing stocks, EcoPro closed at 93,600 won, up 1.63%, while EcoPro BM finished at 116,700 won, up 1.92%. Rainbow Robotics (0.80%) and HLB (0.94%) also edged higher. In particular, Eo Technics closed at 404,000 won after surging 6.74%, recording the most pronounced gain among rising stocks.

In contrast, Alteogen closed at 314,000 won in the regular session, down 1.10%. Rino Industries (0.70%), ABL Bio (3.11%), Wonik IPS (2.83%), and Jusung Engineering (0.84%) also declined together.

■ Signals of Easing Inflation... "U.S. Economic Indicators Are the Upcoming Variable"

In the market, U.S. inflation trends are being digested as a key variable. With signals showing a moderation in price increases in both the CPI and PPI, market attention is expected to shift to upcoming U.S. economic indicators. Beyond inflation trends, eyes are on how indicators related to the economy and consumption will affect the outlook for the U.S. Federal Reserve's (Fed) future monetary policy.

Having approached the 880 level intraday before giving back a considerable portion of its gains, the KOSDAQ faces a key question on the next trading day, the 18th: whether it can extend its consecutive winning streak based on the 860 level.

[※ This article is not intended as investment solicitation; the final judgment and responsibility for investment decisions rest with the investor.]