PSEi hits new 5-month low at 5,833
Philippine stocks declined on Thursday, sending the benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi) to its lowest level in five months.
The PSEi fell 1.26 percent or 74.25 points, to close at 5,833.64, its weakest finish since November 19, 2025.
Still, Michael Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., said that the index remained above the intraday low of 5,816.82 recorded last March 23. This was the lowest level since the Middle East war started last Feb. 28.
Philstocks Financial research manager Japhet Tantiangco said that the market ended the shortened trading week on a negative note as investors weighed multiple risks.
Sentiment was dampened by uncertainty over the United States Federal Reserve’s policy direction, with officials seen as divided on the outlook.
Investors also tracked the surge in global oil prices, amid concerns over a potential extended blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
At home, the peso’s weakness and concerns about slower economic growth added to the cautious tone. This, as the Department of Economy, Planning and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan earlier said, the Philippine economy might miss this year’s growth target.
Luis Limlingan, head of sales at stock brokerage house Regina Capital Development Corp., said that risk appetite remained subdued as traders assessed the elevated inflation and its potential impact on monetary policy.
The cautious tone kept equities under pressure throughout the session.
Trading activity remained moderate, with net value turnover at P6.65 billion.
