[THE INVESTOR] South Korean companies’ business sentiment for October edged up from a month earlier, according to the Federation of Korean Industries on Sept. 29.

The business survey index (BSI) for October came to 96, up from 95 posted the previous month,

The monthly index is based on a survey of 600 of the largest companies here. A reading below 100 means pessimists outnumber optimists, while a reading above the benchmark means the opposite.

The index has remained below the 100 mark for four consecutive months, partly affected by a protracted economic slump at home and abroad, coupled with geopolitical risks stemming from North Korea’s nuclear test.

Also, Hanjin Shipping receivership filing has raised concerns that global trade may decline and freight rates will climb, the association said.

(theinvestor@heraldcorp.com)