Democrats won control of both chambers of the US Congress, triggering sector rotation in Asian markets. Memory names SK Hynix fell more than 9% and Samsung Electronics dropped about 7%, dragging the KOSPI down over 5%. Automakers including Toyota and Honda advanced roughly 5%, lifting the TOPIX about 1%; Uniqlo parent Fast Retailing and other consumer stocks also strengthened.

Markets flagged that Democrats’ midterm focus on AI risks has heightened concern that data-center buildouts could be delayed, prompting defensive flows out of tech and into autos; some investors are also positioning for a potential tariff rollback under Trump that would benefit carmakers.

KCM Trade chief market analyst Tim Wotler said funds are exiting chipmakers and the market is punishing sectors most exposed to potential regulatory headwinds, notably semiconductors.