Kim Sunghwan’s Korea Investment & Securities “First IMA Provider… Launch Planned for December”

Designated as Korea’s First IMA Provider Following Commercial Paper Issuance Pioneer
Conservative Products to Be Offered Initially... Gradual Expansion Planned

On November 19, Korea Investment & Securities, led by CEO Kim Sunghwan, announced that it is preparing to launch its first product as Korea’s first Integrated Investment Account (IMA) provider, with the goal of releasing it in December.

The Financial Services Commission held a regular meeting that afternoon and gave final approval to designate Korea Investment & Securities as an IMA provider. This marks the first such designation since the system was introduced in 2017, nearly eight years ago. Korea Investment & Securities, which was also the first short-term finance (commercial paper issuance) provider in Korea, has now secured the title of the country’s first IMA operator.

The IMA is a financial product that guarantees principal repayment while also providing performance-based dividends. It aims to generate returns exceeding the market average through mid- to long-term investments of at least one year. Because it incorporates a variety of product groups, it offers diversification in asset allocation, making it an attractive investment destination for investors seeking stable asset growth.

Korea Investment & Securities plans to first provide conservative products in the early stages of the system to build market trust, and will gradually expand its product portfolio. While prioritizing stable returns, the company intends to maximize yields by investing some portfolios in high-growth equity securities. The product portfolio will be managed mainly around corporate finance such as corporate loans and acquisition finance in Korea, while also pursuing higher returns through global funds.

In preparation for its designation as an IMA provider, Korea Investment & Securities has established a dedicated IMA department and two sub-units within its asset management group, assigning 12 dedicated personnel to drive the product launch. The company plans to gradually expand the organization in line with trends in customer numbers and funding volume.

CEO Kim Sunghwan stated, "The introduction of the IMA is expected to be a significant turning point in providing customized asset management and stable investment opportunities for our clients." He added, "Through this, we aim to build customer trust and seize the opportunity to promote the revitalization of corporate finance and the growth of the capital market in line with the intent of the system’s introduction."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.