The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) dropped on concern that the Philippine national debt will balloon further next year.
The main index shed 33.24 points, or 0.53 percent, to close at 6,291.85, although sectoral indices were equally divided.
“The market slipped today as some investors may have already taken profits following the index’s series of uptrends this week,” said Regina Capital Development Corp. Managing Director Luis Limlingan.
He added that, “investors are likely still waiting for developments in stock market news that could influence the overall market, along with the upcoming implementation of the PSEi rebalancing.”
Philstocks Financial Research Manager Japhet Tantiangco said, “The local market declined as investors took profits following two days of rallying. Concerns over the outlook of the Philippines’ fiscal position also dampened sentiment as the government’s outstanding debt is projected to hit ₱19.06 trillion by end-2026.”
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) Chief Economist Michael Ricafort said, “The PSE composite index was slightly lower (after gaining for two-straight trading days) after estimates of higher national government borrowings and outstanding debt for 2026.”