The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said they are planning to expand the capital market and strengthen the corporate sector next year, building on reforms and milestones achieved in 2024.

“We are leaving 2024 with much-needed changes implemented to enhance the business sector.”

“As we embark on our 89th year, we will remain steadfast in transforming the capital market to support the growth of a sound and dynamic economy,” said SEC chairperson Emilio Aquino.

The SEC reported a 23.6 percent year-on-year rise in total market capitalization to P20.12 trillion as of November 2024.

It also approved policies encouraging funding for industries like power, real estate and agribusiness.

Green and sustainable financing increased, with ASEAN-labeled Green, Social, and Sustainability bonds surging 602 percent to P209.29 billion.

Likewise, the Commission also approved the country’s first blue bond to support marine ecosystem reforms and sustainable wastewater management.

In 2024, the SEC launched new digital tools, including an online registration system and faster foreign investment processing. These initiatives helped boost company registrations by 6 percent year-on-year to 49,432 as of November.

The SEC also introduced a regulatory sandbox to test innovative financial products, helping 888 companies raise funds through public offerings and crowdfunding.

“We have been relentless in improving our services through digitalization and reforms to create a conducive environment for businesses,” Aquino added.