Markets

Philippine financial markets are in a consolidation phase, with the peso and equities under pressure as tighter monetary conditions and inflation concerns weigh on sentiment.

Filipina entrepreneurs—many of them mothers—play a major role in the Philippine economy, owning 66 percent of existing businesses and 62 percent of newly registered enterprises. Despite this strong presence, many women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) struggle to grow due to limited access to funding, low digital adoption, and the challenge of balancing business and family responsibilities.

The Philippine peso edged weaker last week, pausing after two consecutive weeks of gains as the dollar-peso pair settled into a narrow trading band.

Global equities pushed higher Thursday as investors shrugged off ongoing tensions in the Middle East, with volatility signals suggesting markets see limited risk of further escalation.

The peso is quietly reclaiming its footing, with the USD/PHP pair slipping for a second week (-0.3 percent) after a brisk four-week climb.