The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) reversed Monday’s gains, closing down 65.57 points, or 1.0 percent, on Tuesday, July 15, at 6,459.47.
Renewed concerns over US tariffs and a weaker peso weighed on the main index, with conglomerates leading a broad retreat.
Volume was lighter at 1.65 billion shares valued at ₱5.9 billion. Gainers slightly outnumbered losers, 98 to 96, with 56 unchanged.
“Philippine shares weakened as investors responded to the tariff threats from President Donald Trump, as many analyzed whether any measures would likely be softened through negotiations,” said Luis Limlingan, Managing Director at Regina Capital Development Corporation.
He added, “Investors have also been watching other tariff developments after Trump announced new levies on the EU and Mexico, with talks ongoing and key inflation data expected to reveal the economic impact.”
Philstocks Financial Research Manager Japhet Tantiangco attributed the pullback to profit-taking amid a lack of fresh catalysts. “With no new positive catalysts, global trade concerns amid the US’ planned tariffs got the best of market sentiment. The peso’s weakening against the US dollar also negatively affected the bourse,” he noted.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort stated that the PSEi erased the previous day's gains in a “healthy profit-taking” session. This followed the US dollar-peso rate closing at ₱56.73, a new three-week high and near three-month highs, after recent softer OFW remittances data.