BUSINESS

Nonbank financial sector assets hit P10.7 Trillion

Toby Magsaysay

The domestic claims of other financial corporations (OFCs) grew modestly by 0.1 percent quarter-on-quarter and 16.7 percent year-on-year, reaching P10.7 trillion in the second quarter of 2025, according to data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

The quarter’s increase was mainly driven by higher investments in equity shares issued by nonfinancial corporations, increased holdings of government securities, and a rise in loans extended to households. The growth, however, was partially offset by declining holdings of bank-issued debt securities.

Meanwhile, the sector’s total liabilities expanded to P11.4 trillion, largely due to higher stock issuances and increased insurance technical reserves. OFCs’ net foreign assets also climbed to P0.7 trillion, supported by stronger claims on nonresidents.

According to the BSP, the expansion reflects the continued strength and diversity of the country’s nonbank financial sector, which plays a crucial role in supporting the broader financial system through lending, insurance, and investment activities.

The OFCs survey serves as an analytical tool providing comprehensive data for monitoring monetary and financial stability. It covers entities such as trust corporations, insurance firms, pension funds, holding companies, investment funds, and other financial intermediaries engaged in nonbank financial services.

The identification of OFCs follows the International Monetary Fund’s Monetary and Financial Statistics Manual and Compilation Guide (MFSMCG), ensuring comparability with international standards.

As of 2025, the BSP’s survey includes data from both private and government financial institutions, unit investment trust funds (UITFs), investment companies, and offshore banking units, reflecting a broader view of the financial sector’s interconnectedness with the real economy.