The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) declined on Monday, May 18, as oil prices rose on fear that the United States (US) may resume its war in Iran after failing to break the deadlock in peace negotiations.
The main index dropped 35.25 points, or 0.59 percent, to close at 5,941.52. Miners plunged, while only the property sector managed to advance.
Volume fell to 572 million shares worth ₱4.04 billion. Losers outnumbered gainers—117 to 65, with 68 unchanged.
“The PSEi ended lower as buying interest stayed muted, with investors waiting for clearer market catalysts,” said Regina Capital Development Corp. managing director Luis Limlingan.
He noted that, “Market sentiment remained fragile amid continued increases in global crude prices. The local currency also stayed weak against the US dollar, adding to cautious positioning.”
Philstocks Financial Inc. research manager Japhet Tantiangco said, “The local market dropped further as worries over the Middle East conflict takes center stage again, following US President Donald Trump’s latest threats toward Iran, saying the country should get moving or face consequences.”