Seoul: Individuals' overdraft credit loans at major commercial banks have reached their highest level in over three years, fueled by a bullish stock market. Data revealed that investors are increasingly seeking funds for stock investments as the market continues to rally. According to Yonhap News Agency, the balance of personal overdraft loans, often referred to as "minus accounts," at South Korea's five major banks-KB Kookmin, Shinhan, Hana, Woori, and NH Nonghyup-amounted to 40.5 trillion won (approximately US$27.64 billion) as of Thursday. This represents the largest balance since January 2023, when the total reached 40.54 trillion won. In just three business days since the end of April, the figure rose by 715.2 billion won. In contrast, demand deposits, typically considered standby funds, have been on a decline, indicating a potential shift of funds from bank accounts to stock investments. Combined demand deposit balances at the five banks stood at 696.06 trillion won as of Thursday, a decrease of 501.3 billion won since the end of last month. Throughout April, the balance saw a reduction of 3.36 trillion won. "As the stock market rallies, a growing number of investors appear to be using short-term liquidity for stock investments," a bank official noted. The official also highlighted that tighter government regulations on household loans might be contributing to the demand for credit loans to support housing-related financial needs. South Korea's stock market, as indicated by the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI), has been one of the top-performing markets globally this year. The index has surged over 70 percent, largely driven by significant gains in semiconductor stocks. On Friday, the index reached a new record high of 7,498. Moreover, large orders exceeding 100 million won made by retail investors on the KOSPI totaled 1,193,158 in April, marking the highest monthly figure ever recorded, according to data from the Korea Exchange.