The PSEi managed to close almost flat despite weaker economic data released both in the US and in the Philippines.
The main index shed 1.33 points or 0.02 percent to close at 6,465.53 with sectoral indices evenly divided. Volume was relatively stable at 730 million shares worth P6.59 billion as gainers edged out losers 85 to 84 with 60 unchanged.
“Philippine shares remained relatively steady on Friday's session with continued profit taking on some names and some pick ups on the other,” said Regina Capital Development Corporation Managing Director Luis Limlingan.
He added that, “Wall street had mad mixed results digesting easing US-China tariffs and mixed economic data with producer prices unexpectedly falling, retail sales meeting estimates, and industrial output slightly below expectations.”
Philstocks Financial Research Manager Japhet Tantiangco said “The local market declined as investors dealt with dismal economic data including the growth slowdown in OFW cash remittances last March and the plunge in approved foreign investments in the first quarter of the year.”