The local stock market fell after the government reported slower economic growth for the second quarter of 2023.
The main index lost 80.79 points or 1.24 percent to close at 6,449.66 as the Mining and Oil counter led all sectors in the retreat. Volume was still weak at 513 million shares worth P3.63 billion as losers trounced gainers 107 to 57 with 51 unchanged.
“Philippine shares tumbled as investors looked ahead to a key inflation reading that could impact the Fed's next rate move, while others took to the sidelines as GDP came in lower than was forecasted,” said Regina Capital Development Corporation Managing Director Luis Limlingan.
He noted that, “Value turnover was muted as attention is now focused on the US, and along with CPI, initial jobless claims and hourly earnings for July are due out later tonight.“
Philstocks Financial Research and Engagement Officer Mikhail Plopenio said “This Thursday, the local market plunged as the slower than expected second quarter 2023 economic growth weighed on sentiment.”
He observed that, “The local market’s reaction was visible from the opening of the session as it started in the red territory and stayed there until the close.”
China Bank Capital Corporation Managing Director Juan Paolo Colet said the slower GDP growth “raised investor concerns that full year growth will fall below the government’s target of 6.0 to 7.0 percent and drag the performance of listed companies.”