Banking & Insurance

Manulife Financial Corp. has priced a USD1 billion public offering of senior notes at 100 percent of face value, as the global insurer moves to reinforce its funding base and prepare for upcoming refinancing needs.

Home Credit Philippines is warning customers about a rise in scams that target borrowers with seemingly easy ways to turn loans or credit limits into cash. Scammers are approaching people with pre-approved loan offers, offering to buy devices in cash, pay down payments, or convert credit limits into money, sometimes even accompanying victims to stores to gain trust.

East West Banking Corp. (EastWest) strengthened its presence in the local capital markets this year after helping execute three major transactions: the IPO of Maynilad Water Services in November, SM Prime Holdings’ ₱17-billion retail bond offering, and Ayala Land Inc.’s ₱15-billion Sustainability-Linked Bonds completed in October.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) says financial health will be a major focus when the Philippines chairs ASEAN in 2026. BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. announced the plan during a fireside chat at the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) in Basel, Switzerland, on 11 November 2025.

A recent Metrobank survey reveals that Filipinos’ reasons for saving change as they move through different life stages. Younger adults save mainly for financial security and personal needs, working adults focus on buying a home or funding travel, and middle-aged Filipinos prioritize retirement and their children’s education.