The Indicator from Planet Money · Friday, July 10, 2026
Specialized exchange-traded funds (ETFs) designed to amplify SK Hynix's stock performance, doubling any daily gains or losses, have emerged. This high-risk investment strategy is fueling speculation around the chipmaker, prompting concern from South Korea's market regulator, who reportedly regrets allowing their creation.
“People want that sweet, sweet seven X return. In fact, they're not even satisfied with that. There are these kind of odd types of exchange traded funds or ETFs that only invest in SK Hynix.”
“And they arrange the investments so that they double whatever SK Hynix does on any given day, up or down.”
“It's very convenient. How does this actually work? It's complex, but basically leverage.”
“South Korea's market regulator actually said he regrets allowing this.”