The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) declined on Wednesday, Aug. 5, despite the slightly lower July inflation rate of 6.2 percent as investors took profits ahead of the second-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) data release and amid overseas uncertainties.
The main index dipped by 10.33 points, or 0.16 percent, to close at 6,286.31. Banks led the retreat, while miners managed to post strong gains.
Volume improved to 1.35 billion shares worth ₱6.83 billion. Gainers outnumbered losers—102 to 84, while 49 issues were unchanged.
“The local bourse ended lower despite a better-than-expected inflation print, as late-session profit-taking erased earlier gains and dragged the index into negative territory,” said Regina Capital Development Corp. managing director Luis Limlingan.
Investors initially welcomed the softer inflation data, raising hopes for a more accommodative monetary policy outlook. However, selling pressure intensified toward the close as traders locked in recent gains, resulting in a weaker finish.
Philstocks Financial Inc. research manager Japhet Tantiangco said the PSEi slipped as investors remained cautious ahead of the release of key economic data.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort also noted that the PSEi was slightly lower despite record highs in most United States (US) stock markets due to net foreign selling in the local stock market.