The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) extended its losing streak to a fifth consecutive session on Wednesday, slipping by 0.11 percent to close at 6,318.23.
Investor sentiment remained cautious ahead of the 1 August deadline for US tariff negotiations, contributing to lingering global trade uncertainties. Market participants were also on edge as they await signals from the US Federal Reserve's policy meeting later this week, which could influence interest rate trajectories and capital flows.
Adding to the market pressure was the further depreciation of the Philippine peso, which closed at P57.58 against the US dollar, weaker than Tuesday’s P57.31, based on data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines.
“Investors are still watching for any developments related to the upcoming tariff deadline, even as the country reported higher exports in the first half of the year,” said Luis Limlingan, Head of Sales at Regina Capital Development Corporation.
“Ongoing earnings releases are also likely to drive market sentiment over the next few weeks.”
Trading activity remained lackluster, with net value turnover amounting to only P4.56 billion. Foreign investors were net sellers, logging net outflows of P57.49 million.
Sectoral performance was mixed. Property stocks led the gainers, rising by 0.60 percent, while the banking sector declined by 0.59 percent. Decliners outnumbered advancers, 95 to 87.