The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) may climb back to the 7,000-point level in 2026, a milestone seen as catching up with regional markets. Investment and Capital Corporation of the Philippines (ICCP) CEO Manny Ocampo said lower interest rates should boost consumer spending, which in turn supports overall market sentiment.
“We are cautiously optimistic for the market, maybe looking at the PSEi hitting 7,000 for 2026, bearing no big negative surprises,” Ocampo said. He noted, however, that volatility could arise when companies release full-year 2025 results, especially since business activity slowed in late 2025 amid corruption news and other disruptions.
From a broader perspective, ICCP expects 2026 to be a year of consolidation rather than sharp swings. Inflation is likely to remain manageable, while energy costs may ease as new renewable energy projects come online. “That should have a positive impact on energy costs overall,” Ocampo said, highlighting the benefits of shifting toward non-fossil fuel energy.
