PSEi dips slightly as jobless data weighs on sentiment
The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) closed just a couple of points lower on Wednesday, Sept. 10, after the government reported a drop in jobs data.
The main index shed 2.62 points, or 0.04 percent, to close at 6,120.09. The Services sector led the decline, while the Property and Banking counters posted strong gains. Volume rose to 5.96 billion shares worth P7.28 billion, as gainers outpaced losers 97 to 91, with 69 unchanged.
“The market stayed relatively flat as investors awaited a clearer catalyst before taking new positions,” said Regina Capital Development Corporation Managing Director Luis Limlingan.
He noted that, “The decline in manufacturing output likely weighed on sentiment, adding to caution. Participants now look to upcoming economic data and earnings to guide their next moves.”
Philstocks Financial Research Manager Japhet Tantiangco said, “The PSEi closed down amid late-day profit taking. Investors digested the Philippines' July labor market data, which posted a 3.4 percent year-on-year drop in the number of employed and a 9.2 percent increase in the number of unemployed. The peso's weakening against the US dollar also weighed on the market.”