The PSEi dropped amid see-saw trading this week—volatility is being fed by the Israel-Iran conflict even as investors wait for word from the United States (US) and Philippine central banks, which will hold policy meetings this week.
The main index lost 31.76 points, or 0.5 percent, to close at 6,337.43. Banks led the retreat, with only the industrial counter bucking the trend. Volume grew to 2.91 billion shares worth ₱5.28 billion, as gainers barely beat losers at 96 to 95, with 52 unchanged.
“Philippine stocks fell as the Israel-Iran conflict entered its fifth day and US retail sales dropped more than expected, raising concerns about consumer spending,” said Regina Capital Development Corp. managing director Luis Limlingan.
He noted that, “While the [US] Fed is expected to hold rates steady, the weak data may support a more dovish stance.”
“Meanwhile, locals remained on the sidelines as they await the outcome of the latest meeting of the BSP, with many forecasting a rate cut, hoping to ease fears of further conflict escalation in the Middle East,” Limlingan added.
Philstocks Financial research manager Japhet Tantiangco said, “The local market pulled back as investors took a cautious stance ahead of the Federal Reserve’s policy decision.”
“Lingering concerns over the Israel-Iran tensions and their economic consequences, primarily on oil prices, also continued to weigh on sentiment,” he added.