Markets

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping Philippine retail, but technology alone will not determine which businesses succeed, according to venture capital firm Kickstart Ventures, which says disciplined execution and sound business fundamentals remain the strongest drivers of sustainable growth.

Philippine retailers are bracing for another challenging year, with industry growth expected to remain in the single digits as higher operating costs, cautious consumers, and intensifying competition from online sellers continue to squeeze margins, according to the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA).

The Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) on Thursday urged businesses to accelerate their adoption of artificial intelligence while ensuring that technology complements, rather than replaces, the human connections that underpin customer loyalty.

The Departments of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Agriculture (DA) have intensified joint market inspections to keep rice and other essential goods fairly priced, signaling closer government oversight as authorities seek to contain food inflation and protect consumers' purchasing power.

Philippine financial markets are entering a pivotal week as investors weigh a heavy lineup of economic data, corporate earnings, and global developments that could shape sentiment and expectations for monetary policy.