The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) on Friday, Nov. 28, more than recovered the previous day’s losses as the market took confidence from global debt watcher S&P’s affirmation of the country’s investment-grade credit rating.
The main index rose by 53.11 points, or 0.89 percent, to close at 6,022.24. Miners led the rally across the board.
Volume was tepid, though, at 1.53 billion shares worth ₱5.52 billion. Gainers outnumbered losers—115 to 68, with 59 unchanged.
“The PSEi moved higher today, supported by a more positive tone as investors welcomed the reaffirmed confidence in the country’s credit standing,” said Regina Capital Development Corp. managing director Luis Limlingan.
He added that, “The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) noted that S&P’s decision reflects the economy’s solid growth prospects, strong external position, and sustained momentum in policy and reform.”
Philstocks Financial Inc. research manager Japhet Tantiangco said, “The local market rose this Friday as investors appreciated S&P Global Ratings’ affirmation of the Philippines’ BBB+ credit rating and positive outlook despite ongoing infrastructure corruption issues.”
The peso’s appreciation against the United States (US) dollar also helped.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort said the PSEi is again back above the psychological 6,000-mark for three out of the five trading days this week as market confidence was largely boosted by S&P’s latest affirmation on Philippine credit ratings and positive outlook.