FINWIRES · TerminalLIVE
FINWIRES

Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi)

^PSEI
IndexIndex

106 stories mentioning Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi)Updated 3d ago

Philippine equities trade amid Middle East peace optimism as the country expects roughly $10 billion in initial investment for a US-supported AI hub.

International

Asia Week Ahead: U.S. Interest Rate Decision, Japan's Data Deluge, Industrial Output

Several key data releases are scheduled this week, with a decision by the U.S. Federal Reserve on Wednesday regarding interest rates taking center stage.The economic release calendar will gain momentum as the week progresses.Following business and consumer confidence survey reports, industrial and production data, and import and export prices, the bulk of economic disclosures will be released Friday.Japan is set to announce an interest rate decision at the end of the week. The week ahead also features the usual end-of-month data deluge from Japan that could provide insights into its economic health and potential monetary policy direction.MONDAY, July 27The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) tightened monetary policy for a second straight review, slightly raising the rate of appreciation of the Singapore dollar nominal effective exchange rate (S$NEER) policy band.Meanwhile, the city-state's manufacturing output rose 7.2% year over year in June, slowing from a revised 17.8% increase in May and missing the 9% forecast of Trading Economics.Elsewhere, profits of China's major industrial firms grew 15.1% year over year in June, softer than the 21.1% gain in May.TUESDAY, July 28India is expected to see a year-over-year rise of 5.3% in industrial production in June, according to economists at ING. Manufacturing production is projected to increase 5%, based on a Trading Economics forecast.South Korea will release consumer confidence data.WEDNESDAY, JULY 29Markets will be on the lookout for the U.S. Fed's interest rate decision, with Investing.com and Westpac expecting the regulator to keep the policy unchanged for the fifth straight meeting.Elsewhere, Singapore is set to release domestic supply and manufactured products price index data, as well as export and import price figures.THURSDAY, July 30South Korea will release its business confidence report, while Japan publishes its consumer confidence data.Singapore will report its unemployment statistics for June, with Investing.com projecting a 2.1% rise.FRIDAY, JULY 31Japan is expected to keep its interest rate steady at 1%, according to predictions by ING and Investing.com.Japan's Usual End-of-Month Data DelugeInflation: Tokyo inflation figures will give further insights into Japan's inflation outlook. Tokyo's annual inflation rate is estimated to rise slightly to 1.8% in July, according to market consensus forecast data quoted by ING and Westpac Economics.Retail Performance: June retail sales are expected to increase 2.8% year over year, according to a Trading economics consensus.Activity: Industrial production is estimated to increase 1.8% compared with a 2.1% decline a year prior.Unemployment: Japan's unemployment rate will likely remain unchanged in the month at 2.5%, according to a Trading Economics consensus.Elsewhere, experts at ING forecast a slowdown of China's manufacturing PMI to 50.1 in July from 50.3 the previous month. Non-manufacturing PMI is expected to decelerate to 50 from 50.2 in the previous month.ANZ Research, however, projects manufacturing PMI to fall to 49.9 amid a correction in commodity prices, which dampened business sentiment and corporate profit outlook, the Wall Street Journal reported citing Senior Rates Strategist Jennifer Kusuma.Westpac Economics sees manufacturing activity as broadly stable, alongside a focus on domestic demand for services.Other key indicators due Friday are South Korea's industrial output and retail sales data for June, as well as Singapore's business confidence report for the second quarter.

ASX 200^BSEHang SengKOSPINikkei 225Nifty 50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^STI^SZSETaiwan Weighted
International

Asia Week Ahead: Bank Indonesia Decision, Japan Inflation, Korea GDP

Several key economic releases are due across Asia this week, including central bank decisions, inflation data, gross domestic product figures and flash purchasing managers' index reports.The week begins with China's benchmark lending rates on Monday, followed by Taiwan's June export orders on Tuesday.Indonesia's central bank will announce its interest rate decision on Wednesday. On Thursday, South Korea will report second-quarter gross domestic product, and Singapore will publish June inflation figures.The week wraps up with July flash PMI data from India and Japan on Friday. Japan will also release inflation numbers.Here's what to watch in the week ahead.MONDAY, July 20The People's Bank of China left its benchmark lending rates unchanged for the 14th consecutive month, matching the consensus forecast tracked by Investing.com.The one-year loan prime rate, which serves as the benchmark for most corporate and household loans, was held at 3%. Meanwhile, the five-year LPR, the reference rate for residential mortgages, was maintained at 3.5%.Elsewhere, Malaysia's trade surplus narrowed to 14.9 billion ringgit in June from 39.9 billion ringgit in May.Total exports grew 45.4% year over year to 177.9 billion ringgit, while imports rose 43.9% to a record 163 billion ringgit.India's infrastructure output for June is also expected later today.TUESDAY, July 21Taiwan will report June export orders, with ING economists forecasting a 43.9% increase, slower than the 47.2% rise in May.WEDNESDAY, July 22Bank Indonesia is expected to hike rates by 25 basis points to 6%, according to a forecast by ING, adding that the increase underscores the central bank's commitment to foreign exchange stability by attracting foreign inflows and stabilizing the local currency.The hike is anticipated to be the last of the cycle, according to DBS economists.South Korea's producer prices are forecast to have risen 8.2% year over year in June, slowing from 8.5% in the previous month, according to Trading Economics.Elsewhere, Japan may see a trade deficit of 120 billion yen in June, narrowing from the 378.7 billion yen recorded in May, according to consensus estimates.Exports and imports are expected to climb 18.6% and 21% year over year, respectively.THURSDAY, July 23South Korea will release its Q2 GDP. ING said the economy likely grew 4.2% year over year in the April to June period, up from 3.8% in the first quarter, driven by positive net exports.Singapore will publish inflation data for June, with ING economists forecasting core inflation at 1.7%, and Trading Economics at 1.6%. This compares to 1.4% in May.FRIDAY, July 24Japan will release inflation figures for June. Trading Economics expects the nation's core consumer price index, which excludes volatile fresh food prices, to be 1.5%, slightly higher than May's 1.4%.Flash PMI reports for Japan and India are also due on Friday.Lastly, Singapore will post industrial production numbers, with Trading Economics forecasting a 9% year-over-year boost in June, slowing from May's 13% growth.

ASX 200^BSEHang SengKOSPINikkei 225Nifty 50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^STI^SZSETaiwan Weighted
IMF Lifts South Korea's 2026 Growth Forecast on Chip Demand, China Outlook Upgraded
US Markets

IMF Lifts South Korea's 2026 Growth Forecast on Chip Demand, China Outlook Upgraded

The International Monetary Fund raised its 2026 growth forecasts for South Korea and China, citing strong external demand for semiconductors and rebalancing in the Chinese economy, even as the fallout from the Middle East war continues to weigh on the region.In its July World Economic Outlook update published late Wednesday, the IMF said South Korea's economy is expected to grow 2.6% in 2026, up 0.7 percentage points from the April forecast, with growth "buoyed by strong external demand for semiconductors, which dominates the negative impact of the war."Samsung Electronics (KRX:005930) and SK Hynix (KRX:000660) dominate the local semiconductor sector in South Korea.The 2027 growth estimate for the country was raised 0.4 percentage points to 2.5%. The IMF noted that South Korea's first-quarter growth came in at 7.5%, more than four times the 1.8% pace projected in April.The fund said the first-quarter growth was powered by a semiconductor and AI-hardware export boom, despite the country's "heavy reliance on imported energy from the Middle East."Meanwhile, China's 2026 growth forecast was raised to 4.6%, up 0.2 percentage point from April, with the IMF citing efforts toward domestic rebalancing. However, it noted that higher global oil prices, protracted uncertainty and structural headwinds are expected to weigh on activity in China.Inflation in China is expected "to rise from low levels," the IMF said.The 2027 GDP growth estimate was raised 0.1 percentage point to 4.1%. China's economy expanded 8.1% in the first quarter, beating expectations on front-loaded infrastructure investment and a surge in high-tech manufacturing and exports, even as domestic consumption stayed soft, the IMF said.Elsewhere, India's 2026 growth forecast was cut to 6.4% from the April outlook of 6.5%, even as the IMF said the country remains among the fastest-growing major economies, supported by strong momentum in private consumption and services activity.The 2027 estimate was raised 0.2 percentage points to 6.7%.Japan's 2026 forecast was trimmed 0.1 percentage point to 0.6%, with fiscal support measures partly cushioning the impact of higher energy prices. The 2027 forecast was raised 0.1 percentage point to 0.7% as the energy shock fades.Japan's first-quarter growth came in at 1.8%, beating expectations on net trade, exports and a pickup in private consumption.The IMF expects core inflation in Japan to return to target gradually by the end of 2027.The fund's 2026 growth forecast for the five ASEAN countries -- Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand -- was unchanged at 4.1%, while the 2027 estimate was cut 0.1 percentage point to 4.3%.Within the group, Malaysia's 2026 forecast held steady at 4.7% on data-center activity and the upturn in the global technology cycle, while Thailand's was raised 0.4 percentage point to 1.9% on emergency fiscal measures and technology-related exports and investment.The IMF identified Taiwan, South Korea, Thailand and Malaysia as the top four net exporters of AI-related hardware, noting their average seasonally adjusted annualized suprise growth of 4.4 percentage points, against the 0.3 percentage point drop for the rest of the world.Overall, the IMF said, "Risks to the outlook are more balanced than in April but still tilted to the downside.""The possibility of renewed Middle East conflict looms large and could extend commodity price volatility, further threaten supply chains, raise prices, and weigh on financial conditions."

^BSE^JKSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI^KOSDAQKOSPINikkei 225^NSENifty 50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^STI^SZSEKRX:000660KRX:005930
International

ADB Cuts Developing APAC Growth Forecast for 2026

The Asian Development Bank trimmed its developing Asia and the Pacific economic growth estimate for 2026, below last year's growth due to the effects of the Middle East conflict.In its Asian ​Development Outlook update published late Wednesday, the ADB expects the region's economy to grow 4.9% in 2026, down 0.2 percentage points from the April estimate.For 2027, the real GDP growth estimate was unchanged at 5.1%.The ADB expects inflation in the developing APAC region to rise to 4.3% in 2026 from 3% in 2025, higher than the 3.6% April projection.

^BSEHang Seng^JKSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCIKOSPI^NSENifty 50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^SZSETaiwan Weighted
Asia

Fitch Says Asia Investors Eye AI, Private Credit, Sovereign Risks

Fitch Ratings said institutional investors across Asia are increasingly focused on risks related to artificial intelligence, private credit and sovereign credit, according to a Tuesday press release.The ratings agency said investors are closely monitoring rising spending on AI infrastructure, execution risks and pricing pressure.It warned that rapid adoption of artificial intelligence could displace workers and erode tax bases, particularly in developed markets.Fitch said investors also remain concerned about intensifying competition and limited transparency in private credit, particularly in the U.S. middle-market lending sector.However, it does not expect the asset class to pose a systemic risk on its own.On sovereigns, Fitch said investors are assessing Indonesia's policy credibility, fiscal transparency and the role of its new sovereign wealth fund, Danantara, while continuing to view Japan and South Korea as relatively resilient despite longer-term fiscal and structural challenges.The agency added that geopolitical tensions in the Gulf continue to pose downside risks, although the direct credit impact has so far been modest.

^BSE^HNX^HOSE^JKSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI^KOSDAQKOSPINikkei 225Nifty 50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^STI^SZSETaiwan Weighted
International

Asia-Pacific Capital Market Confidence Hits Record High in 2026: ASIFMA Survey

Confidence in Asia-Pacific (APAC) capital markets reached a record high, with 66% of financial firms planning regional expansion over the next three years, according to the 2026 edition released Tuesday by the Asia Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (ASIFMA) in collaboration with KPMG.However, there was intense competition among APAC jurisdictions in terms of capital and investment.Companies are becoming more stringent in allocating their resources, with expansion plans shifting across markets as they prioritize more attractive individual APAC economies, the release said.Singapore remained the top-ranked Asia-Pacific market for ease of doing business, while Hong Kong remained at second place. India and mainland China improved their rankings, rebounding from last year's declines.The most attractive markets were those with open capital accounts, internationalized talent pools, predictable regulatory frameworks, and active two-way industry dialogue, it said.

^BSE^HNX^HOSE^JKSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI^KOSDAQKOSPINikkei 225Nifty 50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^STI^SZSETaiwan Weighted
International

Asia Week Ahead: Inflation; Manufacturing Activity; and Trade

Asia's macro calendar will be busy in the week ahead, with investors set to track a broad mix of PMI readings, inflation prints, trade data and industrial activity across the region.The week starts with retail sales figures from Japan, alongside producer inflation figures from Singapore and Malaysia.Attention turns Tuesday to China's official PMI data and the Reserve Bank of Australia's meeting minutes.Activity indicators will remain in focus Wednesday as S&P Global releases manufacturing PMI reports for major Asian economies, while Thursday will bring inflation data from South Korea and trade balance from Australia.Friday rounds out the week with a heavy Vietnam data slate, alongside services and composite PMI reports from several major economies.Here's what to watch in the week ahead.MONDAY, June 29The week kicked off with the release of Japan's retail sales data for May, as well as producer inflation data from Malaysia and Singapore.Japan's retail sales expanded 5.3% year over year to 13.45 trillion yen during May, beating the consensus forecast of 3.1% growth tracked by Investing.com, and compared with a 2.8% increase recorded in the previous month.Meanwhile, Singapore's Manufactured Products Price Index jumped 30.8% year on year in May 2026, accelerating from the 27.5% annual growth recorded in April.The Domestic Supply Price Index climbed 34.2% from a year earlier, quickening from the 32.1% year-over-year expansion seen the previous month.Singapore also reported import and export prices for the month.Export prices increased 14.7% year over year in May, accelerating from a 13.3% growth in April, while import prices jumped 19.1% year over year, quickening from the 18.9% increase in the previous month.The Producer Price Index for local production in Malaysia rose 7.8% year over year in May, driven by a rise in all sectors, particularly by the mining industry.Elsewhere, consumer confidence in Taiwan rose to 65.05 in June from 62.08 in May, beating the 62.5 consensus forecast tracked by Trading Economics and marking the highest level since February.In contrast, consumer sentiment in the Philippines deteriorated sharply to -42 during the second quarter from -15.8 in the first three months of the year.Later Monday, India reports its monthly industrial and manufacturing production stats.TUESDAY, June 30Tuesday will be among the busiest days of macro releases with China's official manufacturing, non-manufacturing, and general purchasing managers' index (PMI) data taking the lead.Economists at ING expect China's manufacturing activity to edge up 0.1 point to 50.1, while non-manufacturing PMI is expected to slide back into contraction territory at 49.9. Importantly, the data readout will give economists the first look at whether a June rebound could be in the cards, ING said in a preview.In Japan, monthly industrial production and unemployment data would capture headlines. ING expects May's industrial output to slow to 1.4% year on year from the 2% growth recorded in the prior month, with unemployment to remain steady at 2.5%.Macao will also report unemployment data the same day, with Trading Economics expecting a slight tick upwards to 1.9% from 1.8% in April.Industrial production data from Thailand and South Korea will also feature Tuesday, alongside their retail sales stats.Markets will also follow the release of the Reserve Bank of Australia's meeting minutes for clues on whether the central bank will raise interest rates. In its most recent meeting, the RBA unanimously decided to leave the cash rate steady at 4.35% but opened the possibility of a rate hike to balance the risk between high inflation and slowing growth.Neighboring New Zealand will see the release of a report capturing business confidence for June.Elsewhere, the Philippines will release monthly trade and producer inflation figures.WEDNESDAY, July 1S&P Global's monthly PMI reports on manufacturing activity will be closely watched Wednesday.The reports will cover activity across India, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, China, Australia, and the Philippines.Markets will also await the Bank of Japan's sentiment index for the second quarter, with ING expecting the Tankan survey to show an increase amid strong chip demand and an improved situation in the Middle East.A monthly report covering consumer confidence in Japan will also be due.Indonesia's monthly inflation print will also be among the highlights Wednesday. Economists at ING expect June's consumer price index to edge up to 3.2% year on year from 3.1% in the month prior, reflecting the knock-on effect of elevated oil prices and depreciation of the local currency.Still, inflation is likely to remain within Bank Indonesia's target range, ING said.Indonesia will also report its trade balance the same day, with Trading Economists expecting a trade surplus of $4 billion, up from $90 million in April.South Korea will similarly report trade figures for June. ING said it expects strong chip demand to support exports, resulting in a trade surplus of $33 billion, up from $27 billion in May.THURSDAY, July 2South Korea's monthly inflation print will lead headlines Thursday.As with Indonesia, ING said it expects the knock-on effect of elevated oil prices to reflect more visibly in the June printout which could show inflation accelerating to 3.3% year on year from 3.1% in the prior month."The recent decline of global oil prices won't be reflected in domestic gasoline prices for another couple of months, while petrochemicals and related product prices are likely to remain sticky," ING said.Markets will be on the lookout for Australia's trade balance for May. Canberra is expected to report a trade surplus of A$2.2 billion for the month, up from A$1.79 billion in April, according to a Trading Economics consensus.Thailand will release a business confidence report for June, while Hong Kong will release its monthly retail sales stats.The Singapore Institute of Purchasing and Materials Management's manufacturing PMI report is also expected Thursday.FRIDAY, July 3Vietnam will feature prominently on Friday with a slew of macro data readouts, including inflation and GDP growth rate.The country's June consumer price index is expected to clock in at 6.5% year on year, accelerating from 5.6% in May, Trading Economics forecasted.Meanwhile, the economy is forecasted to have grown by 7.6% year on year during the second quarter, slowing from the 7.8% increase witnessed during the first three months of the year, according to Trading Economics.Other Vietnamese release include monthly retail sales, industrial production, and balance of trade figures.Singapore will similarly report its retail sales data on Friday, while New Zealand will see the release of a consumer confidence report.On the activity front, S&P Global will release composite and services PMI reports for India, China, Singapore, Japan, and Australia.

ASX 200^BSE^HNX^HOSEHang Seng^JKSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCIKOSPINikkei 225Nifty 50^NZ50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^STI^SZSETaiwan Weighted
Asia

Market Chatter: Mynt Eyes PHP92.3 Billion in Record Philippine Listing

Mynt, the fintech company behind Philippine mobile wallet GCash, is aiming to raise as much as 92.3 billion Philippine pesos in a planned stock market debut that could become the country's largest IPO, The Business Times reported Friday, citing a person familiar with the matter.The company plans to offer up to 9.23 billion shares, including an over-allotment option, at a maximum price of 10 pesos each, the person said. If completed at that level, the sale would represent roughly 13.8% of Mynt's issued share capital.An announcement could be made as early as Friday, the source reportedly told the news outlet.Neither Mynt nor GCash immediately responded to' request for a comment.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)

^PSEI
Asia

AI-Driven Boom to Benefit Tech-Heavy Asia-Pacific Economies, S&P Says

Asia-Pacific economies with significant tech manufacturing will benefit from an AI-linked tech export boom, S&P Global Ratings said Wednesday.The benefits from the AI tech rally will counter the adverse effects from the energy shock in these economies, S&P Asia-Pacific chief economist Louis Kuijs said.S&P sees possible upward GDP estimate revisions for markets with solid tech shipments, mainly South Korea and Taiwan, as well as Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.Meanwhile, the impact of the energy shock has dampened growth forecasts for India, Japan, New Zealand, and the Philippines, S&P said.The rating agency's forecast for China remains stable as strong export dynamics offset weaker domestic demand.S&P maintained its baseline GDP growth forecasts in the region excluding China at 4.5% for 2026 and 4.4% for 2027.

^BSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI^KOSDAQKOSPINikkei 225Nifty 50^NZ50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^STI^SZSETaiwan Weighted
International

Asia Week Ahead: Policy Rates; Inflation Prints; and Labor Data

The macro calendar in Asia for the week of June 22 will be relatively light, though investors will still have a mix of inflation prints, activity indicators and policy decisions to track.The week gets off to a quiet start on Monday with China's benchmark lending rates.Activity picks up Tuesday with inflation data from Hong Kong and Singapore, alongside preliminary manufacturing and services readings from several major economies.Wednesday brings Thailand's monetary policy decision, while Thursday will shift the focus to Australia's labor market data.Friday rounds out the trading week with Tokyo inflation data, as well as Singapore's trade and industrial production figures.China's industrial profits data will follow on Saturday, with markets watching for signs of continued growth in corporate earnings.Here's what to watch in the week ahead.MONDAY, June 22The week kicked off with the release of China's closely-watched lending rates.As expected, the People's Bank of China kept its benchmark rate steady at its monthly fixing, with the one-year and five-year loan prime rate (LPR) maintained at 3% and 3.50%, respectively.Macao's monthly inflation print will be in the news later in the day.TUESDAY, June 23The second day of the week brings inflation data from Hong Kong and Singapore, along with preliminary readings on manufacturing and services activity across several economies.Singapore's inflation is expected to rise to 2.1% year on year in May from 1.8% in April, according to ING. The bank said the increase would mainly reflect elevated food prices and the delayed pass-through of earlier fuel price gains.Inflation in Hong Kong is similarly expected to accelerate to 2.1% in May from 1.7% in April, Trading Economics forecasted.Taiwan will report its monthly export orders and unemployment rate. Economists at ING said they expect May export orders to rise to 50.7% year on year amid the ongoing tech boom.Meanwhile, unemployment is expected to edge up to 3.4% in May from 3.34% in April, according to a Trading Economics forecast.On the activity front, S&P Global releases flash purchasing managers' index reports covering manufacturing, services, and composite activity in India, Japan, and Australia.Thailand reports its trade figures for May.According to Trading Economics, the country's trade deficit could narrow to $5 billion from a $10.02 billion deficit in the prior month period.South Korea's monthly consumer confidence report will also be among the highlights of the day.WEDNESDAY, June 24Thailand's central bank will convene for its interest rate decision, with markets expecting no change to the current benchmark of 1%, according to a Trading Economics forecast.Markets will also be closely watching Australia's monthly inflation print after the country's central bank decided to leave the cash rate target unchanged at its most recent meeting to assess the impact of previous rises and the oil supply disruption.Australia's consumer price index (CPI) is expected to fall 0.3% from the previous month, a result that would still see the annual pace of inflation rise to 4.4%, Westpac said.Transport is expected to be the primary drag due to lower fuel prices, alongside declines in clothing and footwear, somewhat offset by modest gains in food and housing, according to the bank.Elsewhere, Taiwan will report industrial production and retail sales data for May.As with export orders, industrial production is expected to benefit from the ongoing tech boom and could record a growth of 14.2% year on year, ING said.THURSDAY, June 25Thursday will be relatively light on macro readouts, with Australia's monthly labor data among the handful of releases of note.Westpac said it expects Australia's May labour force data to show a bounce-back after April's data surprised materially to the downside, possibly due to extra holiday-related weakness tied to the survey's Easter timing.The bank forecast a bounce-back in employment of 45,000 for May, with the participation rate edging back up to 66.8%, and the unemployment rate slipping to 4.4% from 4.5%.Hong Kong's May trade figures will also feature Thursday.The city is expected to report a trade deficit of HK$32.5 billion for the month, widening from a deficit of HK$29.5 billion in April, Trading Economics forecasted.In South Korea, the business confidence survey for June will be expected. The readout should show an improvement in business sentiment amid easing geopolitical tensions and strong performance in the tech sector, ING said.FRIDAY, June 26Japan's closely watched Tokyo core consumer price index for June will capture headlines, offering markets an early indicator of the overall inflation rate in the country.Economists at ING expect headline inflation to rise modestly to 1.7% year on year from 1.4% in the prior month and below the government's 2% target."JPY weakness and second-round effects from higher energy prices should add to inflationary pressures on both goods and services prices," ING said.Trade data from Singapore and Macao will also feature Friday, with Singapore additionally reporting industrial production data.Lastly, the Philippines will release its business confidence report for May.SATURDAY, June 27The week rounds off with the release of China's industrial profits data.After profits at major industrial enterprises rose 18% year on year in the first four months of 2026, markets will be watching the latest data for signs of continued growth.

ASX 200^BSEHang SengKOSPINikkei 225Nifty 50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^STI^SZSETaiwan Weighted
Asia

US, Iran Sign Ceasefire Deal, Agreeing to Reopen Strait of Hormuz, Pakistan PM Says

The United States and Iran formally signed a landmark ceasefire agreement on Wednesday, with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirming on X that the accord had been electronically signed by the presidents of both nations.Sharif, who served as mediator, said the deal carries immediate effect, with Iran pledging to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and Washington committing to lift its naval blockade as the first steps under the agreement.Trump confirmed the signing of the agreement, telling reporters outside the Palace of Versailles in France, "I signed it in Versailles... Just signed it," according to multiple reports, including from the AFP.

^BSE^HNXHang Seng^JKSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCIKOSPINikkei 225^NSE^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^STI^SZSETaiwan Weighted
International

IMF Sees Global Economy Holding Up Amid Middle East Conflict

The global economy has remained resilient despite the Middle East conflict, supported by strong growth in the U.S. and China, though energy importers remain vulnerable, according to a Monday blog by IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva.Oil prices remain about 30% above pre-war levels, contributing to higher inflation in many economies.However, inflation expectations have generally remained anchored, while financial markets have held up and global financial conditions remain accommodative, Georgieva said.She said investment in artificial intelligence and data centers continues to support growth, particularly in the U.S. and parts of Asia, helping offset the impact of higher energy costs.The IMF warned that countries heavily reliant on energy imports, especially in Africa and parts of Asia, face mounting pressure from higher fuel, food, and financing costs.The fund said policymakers should maintain price stability and fiscal discipline while remaining prepared to respond to prolonged disruptions.

ASX 200^BSE^DSE^HNX^HOSEHang Seng^JKSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI^KOSDAQKOSPINikkei 225Nifty 50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^STI^SZSETaiwan Weighted^YSX
Asia

US, Iran Reach Peace Agreement, Formal Signing Due Friday

U.S. and Iranian officials have confirmed a peace agreement to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with a formal pact expected to be signed in Switzerland on Friday.U.S. President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social that the agreement with Iran was "complete" and authorized the immediate lifting of the U.S. naval blockade.Separately, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed that an agreement had been reached to end the conflict, according to multiple media reports.Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who mediated the negotiations, said in a post on X that the peace accord would be signed on Friday, June 19.Sharif added that both sides had agreed to an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations across all fronts, including in Lebanon.

^BSE^HNXHang Seng^JKSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCIKOSPINikkei 225^NSE^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^STI^SZSETaiwan Weighted
Asia

Market Chatter: Philippines Expects $10 Billion in Initial Investment for US-Supported AI Center

The Philippines is expecting an investment of around $10 billion for a U.S.-supported plan to build an artificial intelligence hub, Bloomberg reported citing Bases Conversion and Development Authority Head Joshua Bingcang.The two countries are set to enter into a contract for the project this year, with the Philippines potentially offering a 99-year lease of a 4,000-acre site to the U.S, the newswire said.The site, formerly a US air base in North Manila, is reportedly anticipated to host data centers, as well as green energy, semiconductor, and logistics projects.The agreement comes as the Philippines became a part of Pax Silica, an initiative by the U.S., in alliance with the Philippines, Australia, Israel, Japan, the U.K., and India among others, to build technology and semiconductor supply chains in a bid to reduce dependence on China.For the Philippines, Pax Silica is "a way to catch up in terms of industrial activity," the report said citing Bingcang as he spoke at an interview Thursday.State-owned Bases Conversion and Development Authority is working with the U.S. on the AI hub.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)

^PSEI
International

World Bank Forecasts Slower East Asia-Pacific Growth in 2026

The World Bank lowered its 2026 economic growth forecast for the East Asia and Pacific region as the conflict in the Middle East raises energy costs, disrupts supply chains, and weighs on external demand.The international organization said it expects growth in East Asia and the Pacific to moderate to 4.2% in 2026 from 5.0% in 2025, according to its Global Economic Prospects report released Thursday.Growth in the region is projected to edge up to 4.3% in 2027 and 2028 as energy prices ease and geopolitical uncertainty diminishes.Excluding China, economic growth is forecast at 4.4% in 2026, down from 4.8% in 2025, before improving to 4.9% in 2027 and 2028.

Hang Seng^JKSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^SZSE
Asia

Market Chatter: Asia May Face Stagflation Amid Middle East Crisis, ADB President Says

With the war in the Middle East driving up inflation in global economies, Asian economies are at risk of stagflation, Nikkei Asia reported Thursday, citing Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda.As inflation pressures mount, "There is now a risk of stagflation spiral" due to "declines in demand through lower real wages, and increases in debt burdens from higher interest rates," Kanda told the news outlet on the sidelines of Nikkei's annual Future of Asia forum.According to Kanda, higher shipping, energy, and input costs will lead to a further rise in consumer prices in Asia. There was a risk that the supply chain system would "physically stop functioning," he said.Asian countries are especially impacted by the energy crisis arising from the Middle East war, as they are highly dependent on energy imports that come in through the Strait of Hormuz, the report added."In addition to diversification of the destination of oil and gas, accelerated use of renewable energy and safe nuclear power, as well as stronger energy saving, should have been promoted," Kanda said.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)

^BSEHang Seng^JKSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCIKOSPINikkei 225^NSENifty 50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^SZSETaiwan Weighted
International

Asia Week Ahead: Inflation Prints; GDP Estimates; and Trade Balance

For the week ahead in Asia, inflation, trade and growth data will be in focus as investors assess the region's economic momentum.The week opens with Japan's revised first-quarter GDP figures, followed by trade data from China and Taiwan on Tuesday.Mid-week, China's consumer and producer inflation reports will dominate headlines, while Japan will release producer price data.Thursday will be led by unemployment figures from South Korea and Malaysia, before Friday brings India's inflation report.Here's what to watch in the week ahead.MONDAY, June 8The week was off to a relatively light, but notable start with Japan's first-quarter GDP growth rate.Japan's economy expanded at an annualized rate of 1.8% in the first quarter, according to final data released by the Cabinet Office. The reading was revised down from the preliminary estimate of 2.1% growth, but exceeded the market consensus forecast for a 1.3% increase, according to Trading Economics.The data comes as attention turns to the Bank of Japan's June 15-16 policy meeting, where policymakers are expected to consider another interest-rate increase. The growth figures are unlikely to derail expectations for further policy tightening.TUESDAY, June 9Data readouts will pick up Tuesday, starting with China's trade figures for May.Economists at ING said they expect China's exports to rise 19.5% year-on year and imports to gain 36.4% for a trade surplus of $86.5 billion. The surplus would be an increase from the $84.8 billion recorded in April, thanks in part to higher tech prices, which are boosting both export and import prices, ING said.Taiwan will similarly report trade figures, with ING expecting the island nation's trade surplus to rise to $15.5 billion from $14.4 billion in April. "Strong export orders from previous months suggest external demand remains robust amid the AI boom," ING said in a preview.Markets will be watching for any revisions to South Korea's first-quarter GDP growth rate when the Bank of Korea releases its final estimate on Tuesday.The central bank's advance estimate indicated that South Korea's real GDP increased 3.6% annually and 1.7% on a quarterly basis.In Australia, a pair of reports will capture business and consumer sentiment, while in the Philippines, unemployment stats will be due.Other key data scheduled for the day include Japan's machine tool orders.WEDNESDAY, June 10China's consumer and producer price inflation will dominate headlines Wednesday.Consumer prices are expected to show an uptick of 1.3% year on year in May from 1.2% a month prior, reflecting higher manufacturers' input and output prices due to the Middle East conflict, the Wall Street Journal reported.Japan will similarly report its May producer prices, with analysts expecting the PPI to accelerate to 5.5% year on year from 4.9% in April, according to a Trading Economics consensus.Indonesia will release its May consumer confidence report on the same day.THURSDAY, June 11Unemployment data from South Korea and Malaysia will be the highlight of the day.According to Trading Economics, South Korea's unemployment rate could remain unchanged at 2.80% in May. The platform similarly forecasted that Malaysia's unemployment would remain steady at 2.90%, a level it has held since November 2025.A forward-looking report on consumer inflation expectations will be due in Australia. According to Trading Economics, consumer inflation expectations could rise to 6.5% for June from the 5.6% estimated in May.Meanwhile, Indonesia will report its retail sales stats for April.FRIDAY, June 12India's May inflation data will be in the news Friday.Economists at ING said they expect consumer prices to pick up to 3.9% year on year from the 3.48% recorded in the month prior due to a rise in gasoline prices. Still, the figure would be below the Reserve Bank of India's 4% target."The key risk to the outlook lies in potential second-round effects on food inflation. Fertiliser shortages, alongside the rising probability of an El Niño event, could exert upward pressure on food prices in the coming months and warrant close monitoring," ING said in a preview.Friday will also feature industrial production reports from Japan, Malaysia, and Hong Kong, with Malaysia additionally reporting its retail sales stats for April.In Thailand, the consumer confidence report for May will be due.On the activity front, the Business NZ manufacturing purchasing managers' index report will be due in New Zealand. CommBank said it expects manufacturing activity in May to stabilize, or even lift somewhat, given a decline in fuel prices over late April and May.The Business NZ PMI previously dropped to 50.5 in April from 52.8 in March.

ASX 200^BSEHang Seng^JKSEFTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCIKOSPINikkei 225^NSENifty 50^NZ50^PSEI^SETShanghai Composite^SZSETaiwan Weighted
Equities

Market Chatter: Japan to Prioritize Philippines in Southeast Asia Oil Stockpiling Survey

Japan and the Japan International Cooperation Agency will launch a survey this summer to assess public and private oil stockpiling systems issues across Southeast Asia, with the Philippines designated as the top priority, Nikkei Asia reported Sunday.The Philippines is seen as highly exposed due to heavy reliance on Middle Eastern crude, limited refining capacity and underdeveloped storage systems, the report said.The study will examine infrastructure, storage capacity, legal frameworks, emergency release systems and shipping routes to assess vulnerabilities, Nikkei reported.Japan aims to identify gaps in regional energy security as ASEAN's ties with China deepen, with findings expected after a year and possible partial disclosure, according to the report.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)

^PSEI
Asia

Philippines to Auction Treasury Bonds on June 9

The Philippines will auction treasury bonds on June 9, with a cut-off time of 1 pm, the Bureau of the Treasury of the Philippines said Friday.The offering includes reissued government bonds under the 2034 maturity series.The bonds form part of the government's regular domestic borrowing program to fund budgetary requirements. Details such as tenor, issue size, and coupon rates were included in the official auction notice.The settlement date for the issuance is scheduled for June 11, according to the bureau.

^PSEI
Philippine May Inflation Eases From Three-Year High, Comes In Below BSP's Forecast
US Markets

Philippine May Inflation Eases From Three-Year High, Comes In Below BSP's Forecast

Philippine consumer prices rose 6.8% in May from a year earlier, easing from April's three-year high of 7.2%, according to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority on Friday.The latest print came in below the floor of what Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas had projected, even as the economy deals with oil price hikes driven by the Middle East conflict.The BSP had expected May inflation to range between 7.1% and 7.9%, driven by rising prices of rice, vegetables, and meat, alongside a weakening peso.The year-to-date average now stands at 4.5%, still above the BSP's 2% to 4% target.The main driver of the slowdown was transport inflation, which decelerated to 16.2% in May from 21.4% in April. Food and non-alcoholic beverage inflation also cooled to 5.7% from 6%, while the prices of housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels collectively rose at a softer rate of 7.8% from 8.2% previously.Vegetable costs also drove food inflation lower, with the prices of vegetables, tubers, plantains, cooking bananas and pulses rising at 6.2% in May, versus 10.4% in April.Rice inflation, however, accelerated to 15.6% from 13.7%, while corn inflation surged to 25.2% from 21%.Core inflation, which strips out volatile food and energy prices, came in at 4.1%, up from 3.9% in April. However, the print missed the consensus forecast of 4.2%, according to Investing.com.Ahead of the latest data, HSBC said a 50-basis-point hike is likely in June and August, while MUFG senior currency analyst Michael Wan said the BSP will likely hike rates further by about 75 to 100 basis points this year."[W]e will not be surprised if there is an off-cycle meeting to do so coupled with perhaps some chance of a jumbo 50bps rate hike moving forward," Wan said in a note last month.In MUFG's latest note on Friday, analyst Lloyd Chan said, "With oil prices remaining elevated, inflation risks are skewed to the upside, which could reinforce the case for further policy tightening to contain price pressures and support the PHP."

^PSEI

Showing 1-20 of 106

Track with the FINWIRES app suite

FolioX
FolioX
Track Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi) in your portfolio
WheelAI
WheelAI
Analyze Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi) options with the wheel strategy
StockInsider
StockInsider
See market sentiment on Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi)