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Trade slowdown pressures shippers, while biotech surges on global partnership.

South Korean Shipping Stocks Slip on Tariff Concerns; Hanmi Pharma Gains on Gilead Deal.                                                                                                            

South Korean shipping stocks weakened on Tuesday amid investor concerns over a prolonged global trade slowdown linked to U.S. tariff policies. HMM Co. shares slipped 0.7% to 20,450 won ($14.58), while Pan Ocean Co. and Korea Line Corp declined 1.0% and 0.1%, respectively. Analysts flagged declining container freight rates, a correction in bulk rates, and new vessel deliveries as key headwinds. Samsung Securities cut its outlook on the shipping sector to “neutral,” downgrading HMM to “hold” from “buy” and slashing its target price to 22,000 won. In contrast, Hanmi Pharmaceutical Co. surged 2.15% to 380,500 won after announcing a global technology transfer deal with Gilead Sciences and Hong Kong-based Health Hope Pharma for its oral absorption enhancer, Encequidar. The agreement gives Gilead exclusive global rights, with Hanmi set to receive upfront, milestone, and royalty payments. Korea Investment & Securities reaffirmed Hanmi as its “top pick” with a target price of 520,000 won.