PSEi plunges on concern over US tariffs, Fed independence
The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell on Tuesday, Aug. 26, even when it was expected to be buoyed by prospects of lower interest rates, as investors were more concerned about United States (US) President Donald J. Trump’s firing of US Federal Reserve (Fed) Governor Lisa Cook amid the continuing tariff saga.
The main index plunged by 136.34 points, or 2.17 percent, to close at 6,145.24, led by the steep decline of the services counter. Only the mining sector went against the trend. Volume jumped to 1.55 billion shares worth ₱14.3 billion, as losers outnumbered gainers—112 to 81, with 64 unchanged.
“The market saw a decline today as most stocks were weighed down by heavy selling pressure. Investors are positioning ahead of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) policy rate decision this week, with all eyes on how the stock market will react once the central bank’s move is confirmed,” said Regina Capital Development Corp. Managing Director Luis Limlingan.
Meanwhile, Wall Street saw a bit of a pause yesterday after its recent run after Fed Chairman Jerome Powell hinted at a potential rate cut in September.
Philstocks Financial Research Manager Japhet Tantiangco said, “The local market started the week on a negative tone as the US’ latest tariff threats weighed on sentiment. Trump warned of significant tariffs against China if the country would not export rare-earth magnets to the US.
“The US President also warned of additional tariffs to countries who would not remove taxes and other measures on digital services.”
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) Chief Economist Michael Ricafort said, “The PSEi corrected lower amid concerns over the independence of the US central bank after Trump fired Cook.”