The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rose by 0.46% or 27.3 points to close at 5,920.70 on Thursday, while the broader all shares index fell by 0.12% or 4.03 points to end at 3,335.85.

鈥淭he local market ended higher after four straight days of decline as selective bargain hunting emerged among investors. However, market participants still looked to remain engaged in short-term positions amid cautious sentiment. Gains were trimmed in the afternoon session as selling pressure resurfaced, limiting the market鈥檚 upside,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

鈥淭he local market rose taking cues from Wall Street鈥檚 rally overnight. US President Donald J. Trump鈥檚 statement saying that the US and Iran are already on the final stages of negotiation sparked hopes that a peace deal would be coming soon,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

Iran said on Thursday it was reviewing Washington鈥檚 latest position on ending the war after Mr. Trump suggested he was prepared to wait a few days to 鈥済et the right answers鈥� from Tehran but warned of renewed attacks if it did not agree to a deal, Reuters reported.

Six weeks since a fragile ceasefire came into force, talks to end the war have shown little progress, while soaring oil prices have raised concern over inflation and the impact on the global economy.

Iran submitted its latest offer to the US this week. Tehran鈥檚 descriptions suggest it largely repeats terms Mr. Trump previously rejected, including demands for control of the Strait of Hormuz, compensation for war damage, lifting of sanctions, release of frozen assets and the withdrawal of US troops.

Back home, most sector counters closed higher on Thursday. Services jumped by 1.22% or 36.68 points to 3,027.05; mining and oil increased by 0.56% or 99.86 points to 17,658.63; holding firms went up by 0.41% or 17.99 points to 4,390.3; property climbed by 0.2% or 3.89 points to 1,915.02; and financials rose by 0.2% or 3.51 points to 1,762.14.

Meanwhile, industrials fell by 0.61% or 52.61 points to 8,524.78.

Decliners beat advancers, 99 to 69, while 65 names were unchanged.

鈥淏ank of the Philippine Islands was the day鈥檚 index leader, climbing 2.76% to P89.50. Monde Nissin Corp. was the main index laggard, falling 3.66% to P6.84,鈥� Mr. Tantiangco said.

Value turnover went up to P6.58 billion on Thursday with 1.03 billion shares traded from the P5.67 billion with 1.24 billion issues that changed hands on Wednesday.

Net foreign selling increased to P190.76 million from P115.32 million in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) slipped by 0.05% or 3.4 points to close at 5,893.40, while the broader all shares index fell by 0.22% or 7.67 points to end at 3,339.88.

This was the PSEi鈥檚 lowest finish in nearly three weeks or since it closed at 5,833.64 on April 30.

鈥淭he local market ended flat as investors stayed cautious after President Marcos flagged risks of stagflation amid lingering economic pressures. Concerns over higher oil prices caused by global supply chain disruptions continued to weigh on sentiment, raising worries about sustained inflation and slower growth,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

鈥淭he local market鈥檚 sideways movement ended in the negative territory, taking cues from Wall Street鈥檚 overnight decline. This comes following the rise in the US long term treasury yields. Lingering concerns including the elevated global oil prices, weak local currency, and stagflation risks also weighed on investor sentiment,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. on Monday said the country could face stagflation due to the prolonged Iran conflict as it slows economic growth and pushes up inflation.

Headline inflation quickened to a near three-year high of 7.2% in April from 4.1% in March due to soaring fuel prices. This was the fastest print since 7.6% in March 2023.

Meanwhile, gross domestic product (GDP) grew by just 2.8% in the first quarter, slowing from the 5.4% expansion in the same quarter last year and the revised 3% GDP growth in the fourth quarter of 2025. The government blamed the slump on the economic fallout from a corruption scandal and the situation in the Middle East.

Sectoral indices closed mixed on Wednesday. Services rose by 0.32% or 9.72 points to 2,990.37; property increased by 0.17% or 3.36 points to 1,911.13; and holding firms went up by 0.09% or 4.05 points to 4,372.31.

Meanwhile, industrials declined by 0.79% or 68.70 points to 8,577.39; financials dropped by 0.56% or 9.99 points to 1,758.63; and mining and oil went down by 0.32% or 58.04 points to 17,558.77.

Decliners outnumbered advancers, 111 to 74, while 59 names were unchanged.

鈥淎yala Land, Inc. was the day鈥檚 top index gainer, climbing 1.76% to P15. ACEN Corp. was the main index laggard, falling 4.62% to P3.10,鈥� Mr. Tantiangco said.

Value turnover went up to P5.67 billion on Wednesday with 1.24 billion shares traded from the P5.36 billion with 1.21 billion issues that changed hands on Tuesday.

鈥淭rading remained subdued as investors held back ahead of clearer policy direction and upcoming economic data,鈥� Mr. Limlingan said.

Net foreign selling decreased to P115.32 million from P680.04 million in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) dropped by 0.75% or 44.72 points to close at 5,896.80, while the broader all shares index fell by 0.19% or 6.58 points to end at 3,347.55.

This was the PSEi鈥檚 worst finish in over two weeks or since it closed at 5,833.64 on April 30.

鈥淓levated global oil prices, with Brent crude testing the $110-per-barrel level, and the peso鈥檚 weak position, testing record lows, weighed on the local bourse,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

鈥淭he local bourse ended below 5,900 level as trading activity remained thin amid persistent uncertainty over economic conditions, elevated oil prices, and the maintained depreciation of the local currency. Investor sentiment stayed cautious, with market participants largely adopting a wait-and-see stance due to concerns over inflationary pressures and their impact on the broader economy,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message. 鈥淎s a result, subdued participation kept overall market volume muted throughout the session.鈥�

Oil prices fell on Tuesday, with global benchmark Brent crude dropping 1.5%, after US President Donald J. Trump said he had paused a planned attack on Iran to allow for negotiations to end the war in the Middle East, Reuters reported.

Mr. Trump posted on social media on Monday that he was holding off a military attack on Iran scheduled for Tuesday while efforts to reach a deal continued, adding that the US was ready to resume attacking if a deal is not reached.

Brent futures for July were down $1.73 or 1.5% at $110.37 a barrel at 0825 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate crude for June delivery, which expires on Tuesday, slipped 63 cents or 0.6% to $108.03. The more active July contract fell 82 cents or 0.8% to $103.56. In the previous session, the benchmarks hit their highest 鈥媗evels since May 5 and April 30.

Meanwhile, the peso closed unchanged at its record low of P61.75 per dollar on Tuesday, data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines showed.

All sectoral indices closed in the red. Property slid by 1.33% or 25.73 points to 1,907.77; industrials sank by 0.91% or 79.60 points to 8,646.09; financials dropped by 0.62% or 11.10 points to 1,768.62; services fell by 0.51% or 15.54 points to 2,980.65; holding firms retreated by 0.41% or 18.38 points to 4,368.26; and mining and oil slipped by 0.07% or 12.52 points to 17,616.81.

Decliners outnumbered advancers, 107 to 63, while 74 names were unchanged.

Value turnover rose to P5.36 billion on Tuesday with 1.21 billion shares traded from the P4.05 billion with 572.41 million issues that changed hands on Monday.

Net foreign selling increased to P680.04 million from P225.76 million in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) dropped by 0.59% or 35.25 points to close at 5,941.52, while the broader all shares index fell by 0.51% or 17.28 points to end at 3,354.13.

This was the PSEi鈥檚 lowest finish since it closed at 5,898.08 on May 5.

鈥淭he local market dropped further as worries over the Middle East conflict take center stage again following US President Donald J. Trump鈥檚 latest threats towards Iran saying the country should get moving or face consequences,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

鈥淭he PSEi ended lower as buying interest stayed muted, with investors waiting for clearer market catalysts. Market sentiment remained fragile amid continued increases in global crude prices,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

Asian share markets were on the skids on Monday as fresh drone attacks in the Gulf shoved oil prices and bond yields higher, Reuters reported.

A drone strike caused a fire at a nuclear power plant in the United Arab Emirates, while Saudi Arabia reported intercepting three drones, as Mr. Trump warned that Iran must act 鈥渇ast鈥� to reach a deal.

Meanwhile, the vital Strait of Hormuz remains closed to all but a trickle of shipping as Tehran tries to formalize its control of the waterway that during normal times carries 20% of the world鈥檚 oil trade.

Brent was trading up 1.9% at $111.34 a barrel, while US crude climbed 2.2% to $107.72 a barrel. Crucially, futures for September climbed above $100 and December hit a contract high as markets braced for protracted shortages.

鈥淭he local currency also stayed weak against the US dollar, adding to cautious positioning,鈥� Mr. Limlingan said.

The peso inched down by 2.9 centavos to close at a new all-time low of P61.75 against the dollar on Monday, data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines showed.

Most sectoral indices closed lower on Monday. Mining and oil slid by 3.43% or 626.71 points to 17,629.33; financials sank by 1.04% or 18.75 points to 1,779.72; holding firms dropped by 0.73% or 32.45 points to 4,386.64; industrials fell by 0.5% or 44.33 points to 8,725.69; and services went down by 0.47% or 14.24 points to 2,996.19.

Meanwhile, property rose by 0.18% or 3.61 points to 1,933.50.

Decliners outnumbered advancers, 117 to 65, while 68 names were unchanged.

Value turnover fell to P4.05 billion on Monday with 572.41 million shares traded from the P6.32 billion with 592.04 million issues that changed hands on Friday.

Net foreign selling increased to P225.76 million from P195.41 million the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

PHILIPPINE STOCKS may remain under pressure this week as investors lock in gains from the market鈥檚 recent rally amid lingering geopolitical tensions, inflation concerns and domestic political noise.

Selective bargain-hunting in heavyweight stocks and resilient earnings from some listed companies helped the market end slightly higher last week despite cautious sentiment, online brokerage 2TradeAsia.com said.

鈥淭he PSEi managed a slim 15-point gain as selective bargain-hunting in index heavyweights and pockets of earnings resilience offset cautious sentiment from mixed corporate results, global uncertainty and lingering geopolitical risks,鈥� it said in a note.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) shed 0.63% or 38.26 points on Friday to close at 5,976.77, while the broader all-share index dropped 0.65% or 22.16 points to 3,371.41.

Week on week the benchmark index still posted a modest gain of 15.8 points.

Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco, research manager at Philstocks Financial, Inc., said investor confidence remained weak despite the market鈥檚 gains over the past two weeks.

鈥淭he local market has shown positive momentum in the past two weeks amid bargain-hunting with support from foreign funds,鈥� he said in a Viber message. 鈥淗owever, overall trading was tepid, reflecting weak investor confidence amid macroeconomic and political concerns.鈥�

Mr. Tantiangco said the market could retreat this week as investors take profits while concerns over inflation and the Iran war continue to weigh on sentiment.

鈥淭he Middle East conflict has been ongoing for more than one-and-a-half months already with no deal in sight,鈥� he said.

He noted that elevated oil prices could continue to fuel inflation concerns and keep investors cautious, especially as Brent crude remains near the $100-per-barrel level.

Mr. Tantiangco also said the peso鈥檚 continued weakness against the dollar might add to inflation risks and dampen foreign investor appetite for Philippine assets.

鈥淭he peso has gone back below the 61-per-dollar level. The local currency鈥檚 weak position poses upside risks to the Philippines鈥� inflation rate,鈥� he said.

He added that political tensions in the Senate could distract attention from economic issues and hurt market sentiment.

鈥淲ith the market seen to have a bearish bias, investors are advised to maintain caution with their trades,鈥� he said.

Mr. Tantiangco noted that the PSEi has yet to sustain a move above the 6,000 level despite recent gains, showing that the level remains a strong resistance area.

He placed immediate support at the 10-day exponential moving average, with major support seen at 5,800.

2TradeAsia.com placed immediate resistance at 6,050 and secondary resistance at 6,300.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rose by 1.14% or 68.25 points to close at 6,015.03, while the broader all shares index went up by 0.96% or 32.44 points to end at 3,393.57.

鈥淭he local bourse rebounded above 6,000 level…, supported by late-session buying pressure that lifted the market into positive territory. Despite the recovery, investor sentiment remained cautious as trading activity stayed thin throughout the session,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message. 鈥淢arket participants continued to adopt a selective approach amid lingering local and global uncertainties.鈥�

鈥淭he local market bounced back as investors hunted for bargains following two consecutive days of decline. Trading was tepid, however, amid low confidence due to the lingering issues, from domestic politics, to macroeconomic concerns, to the situation in the Middle East,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

The Philippine Senate president said on Thursday that the lawmaker wanted by the International Criminal Court, Ronald M. dela Rosa, was no longer in the Senate building, Reuters reported. This comes a day after gunfire rang out at the Senate where he had taken refuge fearing his arrest.

Mr. dela Rosa, the former national police chief and top enforcer of ex-President Rodrigo R. Duterte鈥檚 bloody 鈥渨ar on drugs,鈥� has been under Senate protection and is wanted for crimes against humanity, the same charges Mr. Duterte is accused of.

Meanwhile, Iran鈥檚 foreign minister urged BRICS nations on Thursday to condemn what he called violations of international law by the United States and Israel, including 鈥渢heir illegal aggression against Iran.鈥�

Most sector counters closed higher on Thursday. Mining and oil jumped by 2.44% or 447.32 points to 18,728.07; financials increased by 1.64% or 29.88 points to 1,842.43; holding firms went up by 1.64% or 73.28 points to 4,524.4; services climbed by 1.02% or 30.06 points to 2,963.32; and property rose by 0.66% or 12.68 points to 1,932.09.

Meanwhile, industrials fell by 0.05% or 4.55 points to 8,769.50.

Advancers outnumbered decliners, 98 to 85, while 65 names were unchanged.

鈥淏ank of the Philippine Islands was the day鈥檚 index leader, jumping 7.73% to P94.80. Emperador, Inc. was the worst index performer, declining 3.27% to P15.36,鈥� Mr. Tantiangco said.

Value turnover fell to P5.01 billion on Thursday with 442.68 million shares traded from the P7.61 billion with 734.05 million issues that changed hands on Wednesday.

Net foreign buying increased to P467.74 million from P284.85 million. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) dropped by 0.42% or 25.20 points to close at 5,946.78, while the broader all shares index fell by 0.47% or 15.86 points to end at 3,361.13.

鈥淭he PSEi ended lower as investors adjusted positions following the MSCI Philippines Index rebalancing. Selling pressure weighed on select stocks, keeping overall market sentiment cautious,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message. 鈥淚nvestors also remained reactive to ongoing earnings releases, driving selective trading across the market.鈥�

鈥淭he local market extended its decline as investors deal with the uncertainties of the US-Iran situation. This comes as the two remain without a peace deal. Investors also digested local corporate results for the first quarter which have been mixed so far, some of which were dismal. Finally, investors are waiting for clues from the US-China talks,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

US President Donald J. Trump said on Tuesday he does not think he will need China鈥檚 help to end the war with Iran, even as hopes for a lasting peace deal dwindled and Tehran tightened its grip over the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reported.

More than one month after a tenuous ceasefire took effect, the two sides have made no progress on an agreement to end hostilities.

Iran, meanwhile, has appeared to firm up its control over the Strait of Hormuz, cutting deals with Iraq and Pakistan to ship oil and liquefied natural gas from the region, according to sources with knowledge of the matter.

Brent crude oil futures extended gains, climbing to more than $107 a barrel, as the deadlock left the Strait of Hormuz largely closed.

Most sectoral indices closed lower. Industrials slid by 1.63% or 146.03 points to 8,774.05; mining and oil sank by 1.28% or 237.99 points to 18,280.75; property dropped by 0.89% or 17.37 points to 1,919.41; services fell by 0.43% or 12.82 points to 2,933.26; and holding firms went down by 0.1% or 4.47 points to 4,451.12.

Meanwhile, financials jumped by 0.81% or 14.61 points to 1,812.55.

Market breadth was negative, with 116 losers against 73 winners, while 67 stocks were unchanged.

Value turnover fell to P7.61 billion on Wednesday with 734.05 million shares traded from the P9.45 billion with 1.22 billion issues that changed hands on Tuesday.

Net foreign buying was at P284.85 million, a turnaround from the P107.55 million in net selling in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

THE Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) edged lower on Tuesday as investors booked profits amid renewed concerns over the Iran war鈥檚 impact on global oil supply and weaker domestic economic signals.

The benchmark index slipped 0.24% or 14.87 points to close at 5,971.98, while the broader all-share index fell 0.33% or 11.44 points to 3,376.99.

The PSEi opened slightly higher at 5,993.63 versus Monday鈥檚 close of 5,986.85. It climbed to an intraday high of 5,999 before sliding to a low of 5,958.9 and settling below the 6,000 level at the close.

Market participants said the US-Israel war on Iran and profit-taking drove the decline. Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said sentiment was affected by weakening expectations of a US-Iran agreement.

鈥淭he local market declined amid waning hopes towards a peace deal between the US and Iran,鈥� he said in a Viber message, adding that US rejection of Iran鈥檚 counterproposal and remarks from US President Donald J. Trump suggesting a fragile cease-fire weighed on confidence.

He added that higher global oil prices and a weaker peso, which slipped back below the P61-a-dollar level, also pressured the market.

Luis A. Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Corp., said investors also took profits following the previous session鈥檚 gains, while softer foreign investment data added to caution.

鈥淢arket sentiment was further dampened by lower year-on-year foreign direct investment inflows, while the depreciation of the local currency also weighed on investor confidence,鈥� he said via Viber.

Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas showed net foreign direct investment inflows fell 31% year on year to $590 million in February from a year earlier. On a monthly basis, inflows rose 33%, marking a three-month high.

Sectoral performance was mixed. Mining and oil led gains, rising 2.09%, followed by financials, which added 0.68%, and services, which edged up 0.24%.

On the other hand, industrials dropped 1.55%, property declined 1.38% and holding firms shed 0.1%.

Among index stocks, Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. was the top gainer, rising 3.63% to P29.95. Jollibee Foods Corp. was the biggest laggard, falling 10.67% to P144.

Market breadth was negative, with 107 losers against 78 winners, while 62 stocks were unchanged.

Value turnover rose to P9.44 billion from P5.43 billion in the previous session, with 1.22 billion shares traded.

Net foreign selling narrowed to P107.55 million from P146.61 million a day earlier.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rose by 0.43% or 25.88 points to close at 5,986.85, while the broader all shares index went up by 0.44% or 15.06 points to end at 3,388.43.

鈥淭he local market rose as investors hunted for bargains from last Friday鈥檚 losses. Despite the rise, however, the market was unable to take the 6,000 resistance level. Trading was also tepid with net value turnover at P5.05 billion. These show that investors are still on a cautious stance amid the lack of a peace deal between the US and Iran,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

鈥淭he PSEi ended in the green, recovering from Friday鈥檚 decline as strong buying momentum during the morning session lifted the market. However, gains were tempered by some profit taking in the afternoon, while investors remained selective as more companies continued to release their first-quarter earnings reports,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

The main index opened Monday鈥檚 session at 5,997.69, up from Friday鈥檚 close of 5,690.97. It rose to a high of 6,033.81 but finished at its intraday low of 5,986.85.

US President Donald J. Trump鈥檚 swift rejection of Iran鈥檚 response to a US peace proposal sent oil prices surging on Monday amid concerns the 10-week-old conflict will drag on, keeping shipping through the Strait of Hormuz paralyzed, Reuters reported.

Days after the US floated an offer in the hopes of reopening negotiations, Iran on Sunday released a response focused on ending the war on all fronts, especially Lebanon, where US ally Israel is fighting Iran-backed Hezbollah militants.

Within hours, Mr. Trump dismissed Iran鈥檚 proposal with a post on social media.

Oil prices jumped by more than 3.5% on Monday on news of the continued deadlock that leaves the Strait of Hormuz largely closed. Before the war began on Feb. 28, the narrow waterway carried one-fifth of the world鈥檚 oil and liquefied natural gas flows, and has emerged as one of the central pressure points in the war.

Back home, four of six sectoral indices closed higher on Monday. Property rose by 1.89% or 36.45 points to 1,964.05; services increased by 0.84% or 24.70 points to 2,939.02; industrials went up by 0.42% or 37.91 points to 9,061; and financials edged up by 0.03% or 0.63 point to 1,785.80.

Meanwhile, mining and oil dropped by 1.81% or 334.50 points to 18,139.03, and holding firms went down by 0.66% or 29.91 points to 4,460.1.

Decliners outnumbered advancers, 100 to 91, while 73 names were unchanged.

Value turnover dropped to P5.43 billion on Monday with 1.28 billion shares traded from the P8.52 billion with 1.16 billion issues on Friday.

Net foreign selling decreased to P146.61 million from P663.89 million in the previous session. 鈥� A.G.C. Magno with Reuters

On Friday, the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell by 1.21% or 73.30 points to close at 5,960.97, while the broader all shares index dropped by 0.67% or 23.04 points to 3,373.37.

Meanwhile, week on week, the benchmark index rose by 127.33 points from April 30鈥檚 5,833.64.

鈥淭he local bellwether staged a firm rebound [last] week, as optimism over a potential Middle East ceasefire sparked a broad-based rally, effectively overshadowing a disappointing 2.8% first quarter GDP (gross domestic product) print and April鈥檚 three-year inflation peak of 7.2%,鈥� online brokerage 2TradeAsia.com said in a note.

For this week, Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said local shares may remain under pressure amid concerns over the Philippine economy and developments in the US-Iran conflict.

鈥淟atest data with March inflation rate at 7.2% and Q1 GDP growth of 2.8% show that the local economy is in a tough spot. With inflation expected to remain elevated in the immediate to medium term, household consumption and ultimately the general economy may continue to suffer,鈥� he said.

鈥淢eanwhile, the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) signaling preparedness to take further action to control inflation spells further challenges to growth. Finally, the government鈥檚 tempered public infrastructure spending, if it continues, won鈥檛 be able to provide the needed support to the local economy.鈥�

He added that the US-Iran situation remains volatile.

鈥淲hile a ceasefire is still in effect and the two are seemingly moving towards a deal, hostilities remain, which include episodes of exchanges of military force. With this, global oil prices remain elevated with the Brent crude currently testing $100 per barrel.鈥�

Mr. Tantiangco said the PSEi鈥檚 inability to push past the 6,000 mark last week shows that this remains a strong resistance for the market. Meanwhile, he placed the main stock benchmark鈥檚 immediate support at 5,800.

鈥淎t 5,960.97, the local market remains at bargain levels. However, given the negative factors in play, the market may pull back [this] week.鈥�

Meanwhile, for its part, 2TradeAsia.com placed the PSEi鈥檚 immediate support at 5,800, resistance at 6,050, and secondary resistance at 6,300.

鈥淭he PSEi remains trapped by 鈥榠nert forces鈥� as the market grapples with a hawkish interest rate cadence vis-a-vis deep-seated growth anxiety… Ultimately, domestic liquidity remains sidelined, waiting for clearer smoke signals, yet the complexity of the current downside risks suggests that volatility will remain the primary feature of the local landscape at least until the fourth quarter,鈥� it said. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rose by 1.12% or 67.06 points to close at 6,034.27, while the broader all shares index went up by 0.98% or 32.96 points to end at 3,396.41.

This was the bellwether鈥檚 best finish in three weeks or since it closed at 6,063.69 on April 16.

鈥淭he PSEi ended higher as investors tracked gains in global markets amid easing tensions in the Middle East. Strong buying pressure early in the session lifted the benchmark, reflecting improved risk appetite in equities,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message. 鈥淗owever, gains were tempered after the country鈥檚 GDP growth came in below expectations, prompting cautious positioning toward the close.鈥�

鈥淭he local market extended its rise as hopes that the US and Iran would come to an agreement soon continued to lift sentiment. This comes amid reports that the two are closing in on a memorandum to end the war. The said hopes for the US and Iran overshadowed the dismal first quarter GDP data released today,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco likewise said in a Viber message.

US President Donald J. Trump predicted a swift end to the war with Iran as Tehran considered a US peace proposal that sources said would formally end the conflict while leaving unresolved key US demands that Iran suspend its nuclear program and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reported.

Meanwhile, Philippine economic growth slowed further in the first quarter to hit a new post-pandemic low as a corruption scandal involving flood control projects and price shocks from the Middle East war hit consumer sentiment. GDP expanded by 2.8% in the period, down sharply from 5.4% a year ago and also slower than the 3% pace in the fourth quarter. This was below the 3.4% estimate in a 大象传媒 poll of 21 analysts.

All sector counters closed in the green on Thursday. Financials surged by 2.72% or 48.06 points to 1,809.11; industrials increased by 1.62% or 144.59 points to 9,067.06; mining and oil went up by 0.94% or 170.01 points to 18,183; property climbed by 0.44% or 8.64 points to 1,942.89; holding firms rose by 0.37% or 17.04 points to 4,527.4; and services gained 0.34% or 10.29 points to 2,959.58.

Advancers beat decliners, 125 to 83, while 53 names were unchanged.

鈥淐entury Pacific Food, Inc. was the day鈥檚 index leader, jumping 7.83% to P31. Converge ICT Solutions, Inc. was the day鈥檚 worst index performer, dropping 1.61% to P12.20,鈥� Mr. Tantiangco said.

Value turnover went up to P7.92 billion on Thursday with 892.03 million shares traded from the P7.64 billion with 1.35 billion issues on Wednesday. Net foreign buying rose to P213.38 million from P129.86 million. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rose by 1.17% or 69.13 points to close at 5,967.21, while the broader all shares index went up by 0.78% or 26.05 points to end at 3,363.45.

鈥淭he local market rose as the US paused its military efforts to assist commercial ships out of the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress towards a deal with Iran,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

鈥淭he PSEi ended higher, tracking gains across global markets as a US-Iran ceasefire was held, easing concerns over escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Sentiment improved after Washington signaled the truce remains intact, helping temper fears of further disruption to global oil supply routes,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message. 鈥淢oreover, investors stayed on a wait-and-see stance ahead of the upcoming GDP (gross domestic product) release, amid lingering concerns over stagflation risks.鈥�

Stocks leapt as oil prices dropped on Wednesday after US President Donald J. Trump touted the 鈥済reat progress鈥� that has been made towards a peace agreement with Tehran, Reuters reported.

Mr. Trump said he would briefly pause an operation dubbed Project Freedom escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries about a fifth of the world鈥檚 oil and liquefied natural gas; it has been blockaded by Iran since late February, triggering a global energy crisis.

Brent crude, the global benchmark, fell 3.2% to $106.40 per barrel. That helped stocks to push higher after a rally on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, a 大象传媒 poll of 21 economists and analysts showed that Philippine GDP likely grew by 3.4% in the first quarter.

If realized, this would be slower than the revised 5.4% expansion recorded in the same quarter of 2025. This would also be below the government鈥檚 5%-6% target for this year. However, it would be faster than the 3% growth in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Majority of sectoral indices closed higher on Wednesday. Mining and oil surged by 5.44% or 930.06 points to 18,012.99; services increased by 3.27% or 93.58 points to 2,949.29; industrials went up by 0.73% or 65.49 points to 8,922.47; holding firms climbed by 0.59% or 26.73 points to 4,510.36; and property rose by 0.49% or 9.53 points to 1,934.25.

Meanwhile, financials dropped by 0.83% or 14.90 points to 1,761.05.

Decliners outnumbered advancers, 103 to 93, while 56 names closed unchanged.

Value turnover went up to P7.64 billion on Wednesday with 1.35 billion shares traded from the P5.03 billion with 959.88 million issues that changed hands on Tuesday.

Net foreign buying increased to P129.86 million from P38.59 million. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) went down by 0.74% or 44.08 points to close at 5,898.08, while the broader all shares index fell 0.36% or 12.21 points to end at 3,337.4 on Tuesday.

The main index opened the session at 5,929.40, down from Monday鈥檚 close of 5,942.16. It reached an intraday high of 5,985.97 but finished at its low for the session.

鈥淭he PSEi ended lower after inflation came in above expectations, dampening market sentiment. Investors turned risk-off as they reassessed the potential policy response of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Uncertainty over the central bank鈥檚 next move kept buying activity subdued,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message on Tuesday.

鈥淭he local market declined as investors digested the latest inflation print which came in at 7.2% exceeding expectations. Worries over reignited tensions in the Middle East following latest developments with the US sinking Iranian boats in the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran reportedly attacking the United Arab Emirates also dampened market sentiment,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. said in a market note.

Headline inflation surged to 7.2% in April, up sharply from the 4.1% in March and 1.4% a year ago.

This was the fastest headline print since the 7.6% recorded in March 2023. This was also well above the 5.5% median estimate in a 大象传媒 poll of 17 analysts and the central bank鈥檚 5.6%-6.4% forecast for the month.

April was also the second straight month that the consumer price index was above the BSP鈥檚 2%-4% target.

Last month, the Monetary Board hiked benchmark interest rates by 25 basis points for the first time in over two years, bringing the policy rate to 4.5%, as the Middle East war threatens the inflation outlook.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. has signaled further tightening ahead via 鈥渁 succession of modest rate hikes鈥� to help temper spiraling prices.

Most sectoral indices closed lower on Tuesday. Mining and oil dropped 2.06% or 360.57 points to 17,082.93; financials fell 1.75% or 31.66 points to 1,775.95; holding firms went down by 0.7% or 31.64 points to 4,483.63; and services decreased 0.67% or 19.32 points to 2,855.71.

Meanwhile, property rose by 0.18% or 3.56 points to 1,924.72, and industrials increased by 0.1% or 9.45 points to 8,856.98.

Decliners outnumbered advancers, 106 to 77, while 63 names closed unchanged.

Value turnover went down to P5.03 billion on Tuesday with 959.88 million shares traded from the P6.52 billion with 1.81 billion shares that changed hands on Monday.

Net foreign buying declined to P38.59 million from P341.56 million. 鈥� Ashley Erika O. Jose

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rose by 1.86% or 108.52 points to close at 5,942.16, while the broader all shares index went up by 0.88% or 29.41 points to end at 3,349.61.

鈥淭he PSEi started the week higher after heavy selling pressure last Thursday as bargain-hunting emerged across select index names. Market sentiment improved as more companies released their first-quarter earnings, providing fresh cues for investors amid cautious trading conditions,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

鈥淭he Philippine Stock Exchange index closed higher on Monday, mainly due to bargain-hunting. This is despite the slowdown in PMI (purchasing managers鈥� index) in April, which dampened broader economic sentiment,鈥� Unicapital Securities, Inc. Research Head Wendy B. Estacio-Cruz said in a Viber message.

In April, Philippine factory activity contracted for the first time since November due to a sharp drop in new orders.

The S&P Global Philippines Manufacturing PMI went down to 48.3 last month versus the 51.3 in March. A PMI reading below 50 shows a deterioration in operating conditions from the previous month, while a reading above 50 signals an improvement.

鈥淭he market is now turning its attention to key domestic data catalysts, particularly the April inflation data scheduled for release tomorrow, which could provide clearer direction for monetary policy expectations,鈥� Ms. Estacio-Cruz added.

A 大象传媒 poll of 17 analysts yielded a median estimate of 5.5% for the April consumer price index, accelerating from the 4.1% in March and 1.4% a year ago. This is a tad below the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas鈥� 5.6%-6.4% forecast for the month.

If realized, the headline print would be the fastest since the 6.1% seen in September 2023.

Majority of sectoral indices closed higher on Monday. Services surged by 4.35% or 120.09 points to 2,875.03; industrials increased by 1.04% or 91.11 points to 8,847.53; holding firms went up by 0.9% or 40.62 points to 4,515.27; financials climbed by 0.43% or 7.88 points to 1,807.61; and property rose by 0.4% or 7.70 points to 1,921.16. Meanwhile, mining and oil dropped by 0.1% or 18.86 points to 17,443.50.

Advancers outnumbered decliners, 102 to 91, while 66 names were unchanged.

Value turnover dropped to P6.52 billion on Monday with 1.81 billion shares traded from the P7.65 billion with 943.12 million issues that changed hands on Thursday.

Net foreign buying was at P341.56 million, a turnaround from the P538 million in net selling recorded in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno

On Thursday, the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell by 1.25% or 74.25 points to close at 5,833.64, while the broader all shares index dropped by 0.7% or 23.4 points to 3,320.20.

This was the PSEi鈥檚 lowest finish in over five months or since it closed at 5,813.71 on Nov. 19, 2025.

Week on week, the bellwether index dropped by 109.85 points from April 24鈥檚 5,943.49.

Philippine markets were closed on Friday (May 1) for Labor Day.

鈥淭he local bourse succumbed to heavy selling pressure [last] week as heightened risk aversion, compounded by the peso鈥檚 historic low, dragged the PSEi down,鈥� online brokerage 2TradeAsia.com said in a note.

For this week, Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said Philippine shares are expected to remain under pressure amid dwindling hopes of an end to the Iran conflict, which would threaten the inflation outlook.

鈥淭he local market is still expected to move with a downward bias this week as it continues to deal with lingering concerns from elevated global oil prices to rising inflation and interest rate expectations. Adding to the worries is the weakening of the peso to record lows and the inflationary risks it brings,鈥� he said.

鈥淧oor foreign investor confidence, rising import costs, and rising US bond yields have sunk the peso to record lows. Currently below 61 against the US dollar, a sustained weakness of the local currency is expected to continue discouraging foreign investors and pose inflationary risks.鈥�

These continue to heighten inflation expectations, which would strengthen the case for further policy tightening by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), he added.

鈥淲ith its current level, the local market is deemed to be at a bargain. However, investors are still advised to remain cautious. With the downside risks at play, the market may continue to decline.鈥�

Mr. Tantiangco put the PSEi鈥檚 immediate support at 5,800 and major resistance at 6,000.

He added that data on inflation, manufacturing, labor, and gross domestic product due for release this week could provide the market with leads.

For its part, 2TradeAsia.com placed the PSEi鈥檚 immediate support at 5,800, resistance at 6,050, and secondary resistance at 6,300.

鈥淭his combination of geopolitical energy risks, stickier global inflation, a firmer dollar, and domestic margin pressures creates a challenging environment for sustaining aggressive risk positioning in Philippine equities,鈥� it said.

It added that currency stability concerns amid the peso鈥檚 latest slide could further limit the BSP鈥檚 room for policy stimulus. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell by 1.25% or 74.25 points to close at 5,833.64, while the broader all shares index dropped by 0.7% or 23.4 points to 3,320.20.

This was the PSEi鈥檚 lowest finish in over five months or since it closed at 5,813.71 on Nov. 19, 2025.

鈥淭he Philippine market closed lower as investors stayed cautious following the BSP鈥檚 (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) projection that inflation for April could reach as high as 6.4%. Sentiment was further weighed down by concerns over the persistent depreciation of the local currency in recent sessions,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message. 鈥淩isk appetite remained subdued as traders assessed the implications of elevated inflation and its potential impact on monetary policy.鈥�

Philippine inflation likely quickened in April and settled between 5.6% and 6.4% due to soaring prices of fuel, electricity and food, as well as a weak peso, the BSP said. This would be faster than the 1.4% clip in the same month a year ago and the 4.1% in March.

On Thursday, the peso closed at P61.485 a dollar, climbing by 8.2 centavos from its record-low finish of P60.567 on Wednesday.

鈥淭he local market ended the shortened trading week on a negative tone as investors digested the following: the Federal Reserve鈥檚 uncertain policy outlook as members are divided; the surge in global oil prices as the US prepares for an extended blockade of the Strait of Hormuz; the peso鈥檚 weakness; and DEPDev (Department of Economy, Planning, and Development) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan鈥檚 statement saying that the local economy is unlikely to reach the target this year,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

All sectoral indices closed in the red. Mining and oil slid by 2.83% or 508.69 points to 17,462.36; property sank by 1.38% or 26.90 points to 1,913.46; holding firms dropped by 1.11% or 50.49 points to 4,474.65; financials fell by 1.07% or 19.52 points to 1,799.73; services retreated by 0.99% or 27.65 points to 2,754.94; and industrials went down by 0.84% or 74.61 points to 8,756.42.

Decliners outnumbered advancers, 113 to 74, while 58 names were unchanged.

鈥淎ll sectors were down for the day with the miners suffering most losses. There were only nine index gainers for the day, led by Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. up 2.65% to P29.10 as it nearly doubled its bottom line in the first quarter. Semirara Mining and Power Corp. was the main index laggard, falling 4.94% to P26,鈥� Mr. Tantiangco said.

Value turnover edged down to P7.65 billion on Thursday with 943.12 million shares traded from the P7.72 billion with 1.34 billion issues on Wednesday.

Net foreign selling was at P538 million, a reversal of the P279.59 million in net buying in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rose by 0.7% or 41.10 points to close at 5,907.89, while the broader all shares index went up by 0.69% or 23.2 points to end at 3,343.60.

鈥淭he PSEi鈥檚 modest rebound appears largely technical, with bargain-hunting emerging after recent weakness but lacking strong conviction amid persistent macro and external headwinds,鈥� Unicapital Securities, Inc. Research Head Wendy B. Estacio-Cruz said in a Viber message.

鈥淪entiment remains fragile amid continued peso depreciation and renewed increases in crude oil prices. We see the index likely to trade within a narrow range unless supported by stronger-than-expected earnings.鈥�

The main stock benchmark on Tuesday sank by 34.36 points or 0.58% to close at 5,866.79, its weakest finish since November, on heightened worries over the Middle East conflict.

鈥淭he Philippine market ended higher, snapping a five-day losing streak as bargain-hunting emerged after the recent sell-off. Investor sentiment improved after the market took positively the UAE鈥檚 decision to exit OPEC, raising expectations of lower global fuel prices. This helped ease inflation concerns and provided near-term support for equities,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday said it was quitting the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), dealing a blow to the oil producers鈥� group as an unprecedented energy crisis caused by the Iran war exposes discord among Gulf nations, Reuters reported. Oil prices on international markets trimmed gains on Tuesday following the UAE鈥檚 announcement.

OPEC Gulf producers have been struggling to ship exports through the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint between Iran and Oman through which a fifth of the world鈥檚 crude oil and liquefied natural gas normally passes, because of Iranian threats and attacks against vessels.

At home, sectoral indices closed mixed. Services jumped by 1.32% or 36.48 points to 2,782.59; industrials increased by 1.29% or 112.65 points to 8,831.03; and financials went up by 0.32% or 5.83 points to 1,819.25.

Meanwhile, property declined by 0.08% or 1.56 points to 1,940.36; mining and oil slipped by 0.06% or 11.31 points to 17,971.05; and holding firms edged down by 0.02% or 1.14 points to 4,525.14.

Advancers beat decliners, 105 to 78, while 54 names were unchanged.

Value turnover went down to P7.72 billion on Wednesday with 1.34 billion shares traded from the P8.07 billion with 1.52 billion issues that changed hands on Tuesday.

Net foreign buying was at P279.59 million, a turnaround from the P878.07 million in net selling in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

The benchmark index fell 0.58% or 34.36 points to close at 5,866.79, while the broader all-share index slipped 0.44% or 14.73 points to 3,320.4.

Tuesday鈥檚 close was its weakest since November, reflecting sustained selling pressure across most sectors.

The index opened higher at 5,914.31, but trading turned volatile as it hit an intraday low of 5,833.92 before ending below the 5,900 level.

鈥淭he local bourse faltered as investors stayed on the sidelines, waiting for further clarity on the Israel-Lebanon conflict, while digesting the overall impact of last week鈥檚 25-bp (basis point) hike by the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas),鈥� AP Securities, Inc. said in a market note.

Luis A. Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Corp., said the peso weakness added to market caution.

鈥淭he Philippine market ended lower as selling pressure continues to weigh on equities, driven by the continued peso depreciation to a fresh record above the 61 level against the US dollar,鈥� he said in a Viber message. 鈥淭he weaker currency heightened inflation and policy concerns, prompting investors to reduce risk exposure.鈥�

The market also remained cautious ahead of upcoming economic data releases, he added.

The peso closed at an all-time low of P61.30 against the dollar, weakening by 59 centavos from the previous session, according to Bankers Association of the Philippines data. It surpassed its prior record low of P60.748 in late March.

Most sectoral indexes ended lower, led by industrials, which dropped 1.32% to 8,718.38. Services fell 0.79% to 2,746.11, property declined 0.62% to 1,941.92 and financials slipped 0.11% to 1,813.42.

On the other hand, mining and oil edged higher by 0.07% to 17,982.36, while holding firms added 0.05% to 4,526.28.

Losers beat winners 117 to 68, while 58 stocks were unchanged.

Market turnover rose to P8.07 billion from P5.36 billion in the previous session, with 1.52 billion shares traded.

Foreign selling widened to a net P878.07 million from P677.34 million on Monday, indicating continued offshore exit from local equities. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) tumbled by 0.71% or 42.34 points to close at 5,901.15, while the broader all shares index went down by 0.51% or 17.09 points to end at 3,335.13.

This was the main stock benchmark鈥檚 worst finish in almost a month or since it closed at 5,869.49 on March 30.

鈥淭he PSEi started the week in the red as market sentiment remained cautious amid continued peso depreciation and renewed increases in crude oil prices. These developments fueled concerns over rising inflationary pressures, prompting fears of possible additional rate hikes by the central bank. As a result, investors stayed on the sidelines, weighing macroeconomic risks against near-term growth prospects,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

鈥淭he local market started the week on a negative tone as expectations of rising inflation and interest rates at home dampened investors鈥� sentiment. Waning prospects of a deal between the US and Iran also continued to weigh on the bourse,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

On Thursday, the BSP鈥檚 policy-setting Monetary Board raised the target reverse repurchase rate by 25 basis points (bp) to 4.5%, marking its first hike since October 2023.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. signaled further tightening ahead via 鈥渁 succession of modest rate hikes鈥� as they try to temper spiraling prices due to the Iran war as the global oil shock pushes up inflation expectations.

The BSP now sees inflation breaching their 2%-4% tolerance band in 2026 and 2027. For this year, it expects the consumer price index to average 6.3%, significantly higher than the earlier 5.1% forecast. For 2027, the BSP also raised its projection to 4.3% from 3.8% previously.

Oil prices jumped almost 3% on Monday as peace talks between the US and Iran stalled and shipments through the Strait of Hormuz remained limited, keeping global oil supplies tight, Reuters reported.

Sectoral indices closed mixed. Mining and oil jumped by 1.96% or 345.70 points to 17,968.89; industrials increased by 0.42% or 37.22 points to 8,835.30; and services edged up by 0.14 point to 2,768.24. Meanwhile, holding firms declined by 1.73% or 79.93 points to 4,523.81; financials dropped by 1.15% or 21.25 points to 1,815.58; and property went down by 0.61% or 12.1 points to 1,954.20.

Decliners beat advancers, 107 to 86, while 56 names were unchanged.

Value turnover declined to P5.36 billion on Monday with 1.61 billion shares traded from P5.52 billion with 2.09 billion issues on Friday.

Net foreign selling increased to P677.34 million from P628.11 million in the previous session. 鈥� A.G.C. Magno

On Friday, the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell by 0.67% or 40.32 points to close at 5,943.49, while the broader all shares index went down by 0.51% or 17.50 points to end at 3,352.22.

This was the PSEi鈥檚 worst finish in over three weeks or since it closed at 5,869.49 on March 30.

Week on week, the bellwether index dropped by 55.64 points from April 17鈥檚 5,999.13.

鈥淭he local bourse capped a volatile week on a sour note, with the PSEi breaking below the 6,000 psychological support zone to close at 5,943. This downward pressure followed BSP鈥檚 hawkish 25 basis points (bps) rate hike to 4.5%, a move aimed at tempering inflation fueled by surging oil prices,鈥� online brokerage 2TradeAsia.com said in a note.

鈥淭he local market exhibited another bearish week as investors dealt with the uncertainties stemming from the Middle East conflict and the interest rate hike by the BSP. The local market is already on a two-week losing streak and is now trading below the crucial 6,000 line,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

On Thursday, the BSP raised benchmark interest rates by 25 bps in a preemptive move to mitigate second-round inflation effects from the Middle East war, bringing the policy rate to 4.5%. This was its first hike since October 2023 and was predicted by 11 of 19 analysts in a 大象传媒 poll.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. also signaled further tightening ahead as they now see inflation breaching their 2%-4% tolerance band until next year.

For this week, Mr. Tantiangco said the market may stay bearish despite low valuations as uncertainties over the Middle East conflict and concerns about rising domestic inflation and interest rates weigh on sentiment.

He added that a sustained weakness in the peso could also drag down the local market. The peso closed at a new three-week low of P60.70 a dollar on Friday.

鈥淪till, the market鈥檚 bearish default could be negated if we see positive developments in the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East,鈥� he said.

鈥淐urrently, the market鈥檚 technicals are also giving a bearish bias. In last week鈥檚 trading, the market has already given up its ground at 6,000. With this, its new support is already seen at 5,800.鈥�

2TradeAsia.com placed the PSEi鈥檚 immediate support at 5,800, resistance at 6,050, and secondary resistance at 6,300.

鈥淭he heightened uncertainty generated by war and its consequences has played its way out not just in oil prices and Treasury rates, but in the higher premiums that investors now charge for risk,鈥� it said. 鈥淲e expect the market to remain in a consolidatory phase as it digests these pain points.鈥� 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) slipped by 0.09% or 5.75 points to close at 5,983.81, while the broader all shares index went down by 0.19% or 6.40 points to end at 3,369.72.

鈥淭he Philippine market ended slightly lower as the central bank鈥檚 rate hike weighed on sentiment, keeping risk appetite for equities remained subdued. This is still further pressured by ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East, keeping investors cautious and limiting overall market participation,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

鈥淭he local market extended its decline as investors continue to worry over the outlook of the situation between the US and Iran. This comes as the two remain without a deal that could end their war. Investors also traded cautiously while waiting for the BSP鈥檚 policy decision,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

On Thursday, the BSP raised benchmark interest rates by 25 basis points in a preemptive move to mitigate second-round inflation effects from the Middle East warm bringing the policy rate to 4.5%. This was its first hike since October 2023 and was predicted by 11 of 19 analysts in a 大象传媒 poll.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. also signaled further tightening ahead as they now see inflation breaching their 2%-4% tolerance band until next year.

Sectoral indices were mixed. Services rose by 0.41% or 11.40 points to 2,770.13; property increased by 0.13% or 2.66 points to 1,989.10; and holding firms went up by 0.07% or 3.24 points to 4,631.91.

Meanwhile, mining and oil declined by 1.39% or 252.50 points to 17,808.34; financials dropped by 1.13% or 21.37 points to 1,867.2; and industrials went down by 0.32% or 28.96 points to 8,789.35.

Decliners beat advancers, 102 to 92, while 62 names were unchanged.

Value turnover declined to P5.74 billion on Thursday with 4.03 billion shares traded from the P5.96 billion with 2.86 billion issues that changed hands on Wednesday.

Net foreign selling increased to P597.74 million from P497.60 million in the previous session.

Asian shares retreated from record highs on Thursday as oil prices extended their gains on renewed shipping woes in the Gulf, underscoring fragile risk sentiment as a peace deal eludes the US and Iran, Reuters re-ported.

Iran on Wednesday captured two container ships seeking to exit the Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz, tightening its grip on the crucial waterway, as investors watch if the fragile ceasefire in the Middle East will hold. 鈥� A.G.C. Mag-no

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell by 0.48% or 29.14 points to close at 5,989.56, while the broader all shares index went down by 0.33% or 11.41 points to end at 3,376.12.

This was the PSEi鈥檚 lowest finish in over two weeks or since April 7鈥檚 close of 5,957.87.

鈥淭he local market declined on worries over the situation between the US and Iran. This comes as the two remain without a deal, causing the US to extend the ceasefire agreement while keeping blockade at the Strait of Hormuz,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

US President Donald J. Trump said he would indefinitely extend the ceasefire with Iran to allow for further peace talks, although it was not clear on Wednesday if Iran or Israel, the US ally in the two-month war, would agree, Reuters reported.

There was no response early on Wednesday to Mr. Trump鈥檚 announcement from senior Iranian officials, although some initial reactions from Tehran suggested Mr. Trump鈥檚 comments were being treated skeptically.

鈥淭he Philippine market retreated from early gains as investors turned cautious ahead of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas policy meeting tomorrow. Trading sentiment remained guarded, with participants opting to stay on the sidelines pending clearer policy direction,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. earlier told 大象传媒 that they have room to raise rates to temper growing inflation risks amid the Middle East conflict.

A 大象传媒 poll showed that 11 out of 19 analysts expect the Monetary Board to hike the target reverse repurchase rate by 25 basis points at this week鈥檚 meeting. This would bring the benchmark rate to 4.5% and mark the BSP鈥檚 first tightening move since October 2023.

Most sectoral indices closed lower. Holding firms slid by 1.04% or 48.70 points to 4,628.67; financials sank by 0.92% or 17.59 points to 1,888.57; industrials dropped by 0.85% or 76.28 points to 8,818.31; mining and oil fell by 0.57% or 104.13 points to 18,060.84; and property slipped by 0.21% or 4.36 points to 1,986.44.

Meanwhile, services jumped by 0.55% or 15.29 points to 2,758.73.

Market breadth was negative as decliners outnumbered advancers, 105 to 83, while 66 names were unchanged.

Value turnover declined to P5.96 billion on Wednesday with 2.86 billion shares traded from the P6.91 billion with 832.76 million issues that changed hands on Tuesday.

Net foreign selling climbed to P497.60 million from P311.95 million in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno

PHILIPPINE STOCKS inched higher on Tuesday, with investors largely staying on the sidelines ahead of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas鈥� (BSP) policy meeting and amid lingering uncertainty over the US-Israel war on Iran.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange Index gained 0.04% or 2.67 points to close at 6,018.7, while the broader all-share index added 0.15% or 5.09 points to finish at 3,387.53.

Market sentiment remained cautious, with investors closely monitoring developments surrounding the Middle East war, particularly the fragile cease-fire between the US and Iran.

Hopes that both sides could still reach a deal before the truce expires helped keep the market in positive territory, though gains were limited by risk aversion.

鈥淪entiment was stable as the market looked for updates on the unclear status of peace talks, which continued to limit risk appetite,鈥� Luis A. Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Corp., said in a Viber message.

He added that investors are maintaining a wait-and-see stance ahead of the central bank鈥檚 policy decision.

Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco noted that while optimism over possible diplomatic progress supported equities, cautious positioning persisted due to lingering risks from the war.

Focus is also squarely on the BSP鈥檚 April 23 policy review, where analysts are divided but leaning toward a rate hike as inflation risks build.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. earlier said the central bank has room to raise interest rates to temper price pressures stemming from elevated oil prices linked to the Middle East crisis.

A 大象传媒 poll showed that 11 of 19 analysts expect the Monetary Board to raise the benchmark rate by 25 basis points to 4.5%, potentially marking the BSP鈥檚 first tightening move since October 2023.

The central bank has said it is closely watching core inflation and the impact of rising prices on lower-income households.

Sectoral performance was mixed, with four of six indexes closing higher. Holding firms led the gains, climbing 1.04% to 4,677.37, followed by industrials, which rose 0.89% to 8,894.59. Mining and oil added 0.63% to 18,164.97, while financials edged up 0.37% to 1,906.16.

On the other hand, services declined 1.35% to 2,743.44, while property dropped 0.46% to 1,990.8.

Among individual stocks, JG Summit Holdings, Inc. posted the biggest gain, rising 5.95% to P28.50. Ayala Land, Inc. was the top decliner, falling 2.12% to P16.60.

Market breadth was positive, with 106 winners outpacing 90 losers, while 76 stocks were unchanged. However, trading activity slowed, with value turnover dropping to P6.91 billion from P7.17 billion in the previous session.

Foreign investors remained net sellers, though outflows eased to P311.95 million from P446.83 million a day earlier, reflecting continued caution among offshore funds.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rose by 0.28% or 16.90 points to close at 6,016.03, while the broader all shares index went up by 0.22% or 7.66 points to end at 3,382.44.

鈥淧hilippine equities held their ground, tracking Wall Street gains despite the overnight status change in the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting growing desensitization to volatility driven by developments in the Iran conflict,鈥� AP Securities, Inc. said in a market note.

鈥淭he PSEi bounced back from Friday鈥檚 drop, reclaiming the 6,000 level on bargain hunting, though gains were tempered by selling pressure in the afternoon session. Sentiment stayed cautious after Iran threatened retaliation over the US seizure of a cargo ship, with its participation in peace talks in Pakistan still unconfirmed,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

Concerns grew on Monday that the ceasefire between the United States and Iran might collapse after the US said it had seized an Iranian cargo ship that tried to run its blockade and Iran vowed to retaliate, Reuters reported.

Efforts to build a more lasting peace in the region also appeared under threat, as Iran said it would not participate in a second round of negotiations that the US had hoped to kick off before the ceasefire expires.

The US has maintained a blockade of Iranian ports, while Iran has lifted and then reimposed its own blockade on marine traffic passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which typically handles roughly one-fifth of the world鈥檚 oil supply.

The US military said it fired on an Iranian-flagged cargo ship headed towards Iran鈥檚 Bandar Abbas port on Sunday after a six-hour standoff, disabling its engines.

Oil prices jumped more than 5% and stock markets wobbled as traders fretted that the ceasefire would collapse and traffic in and out of the Gulf would remain at a bare minimum.

Back home, sectoral indices closed mixed on Monday. Holding firms rose by 0.86% or 39.73 points to 4,629.04; services increased by 0.69% or 19.25 points to 2,781.03; and mining and oil went up by 0.44% or 79.02 points to 18,049.97.

Meanwhile, industrials declined by 0.34% or 30.13 points to 8,816.01; property dropped by 0.26% or 5.28 points to 2,000.03; and financials went down by 0.14% or 2.73 points to 1,899.07.

Decliners narrowly beat advancers, 105 to 101, while 60 names closed unchanged.

Value turnover declined to P7.17 billion on Monday with 686.11 million shares traded from the P7.44 billion with 1.1 billion issues that changed hands on Friday.

Net foreign selling decreased to P446.83 million from P1.70 billion in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

On Friday, the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell by 1.06% or 64.56 points to close at 5,999.13, while the broader all shares index went down by 0.7% or 24.03 points to end at 3,374.78.

Week on week, the bellwether index dropped by 99.08 points from its April 10 finish of 6,098.21.

鈥淭he market retreated as early recovery attempts resulting from sequel US-Iran talks and Israel-Lebanon鈥檚 10-day ceasefire were doused by supply pressure Friday. Investors remain concerned over heightened risks from an uncertain geopolitical terrain,鈥� online brokerage 2TradeAsia.com said in a note.

鈥淚nvestors took profits after a two-week rally, causing the local market to pull back last week. This shows that investors are still moving with caution as economic risks remain due to the war in the Middle East,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message. 鈥淲hile ceasefire agreements spark hopes of negotiations, investors are also aware that tensions may still reignite.鈥�

For this week, Mr. Tantiangco said the market could move higher on news amid the reported progress in the US-Iran talks.

鈥淧ositive developments, primarily ones pointing to a deal between the US and Iran, are expected to drive the local market higher. However, lack of such, more so a deterioration of the situation between the two, is expected to bring the market lower.鈥�

However, the market remains bearish, as shown by PSEi鈥檚 slide back below the 6,000 mark, he said.

For its part, 2TradeAsia.com put the PSEi鈥檚 immediate support at 5,800, resistance at 6,050, and secondary resistance at 6,300.

鈥淲e anticipate sustained pressure on the peso, a weakened government balance sheet, and a slowdown in remittances due to Middle East concentration risk. With runaway inflation pressures keeping interest rates elevated, the risk of stagflation is high,鈥� it said.

Iran鈥檚 top negotiator said recent talks with the US had made progress but gaps remained over nuclear issues and the Strait of Hormuz, while President Donald J. Trump cited 鈥渧ery good conversations鈥� with Tehran despite warning against 鈥渂lackmail鈥� over the key shipping channel, Reuters reported.

Neither side offered any specifics about the state of negotiations on Saturday, days before a fragile ceasefire in the US-Israeli war against Iran is set to expire.

The war, now in its eighth week, has killed thousands, spread to Israeli attacks in Lebanon and sent oil prices surging because of the de facto closure of the strait, which before the war carried one-fifth of the world鈥檚 oil shipments.

Tehran reversed course on Saturday to reassert control over the strait, again closing the energy choke point and adding fresh uncertainty to the war, which the US and Israel launched on Feb. 28. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) edged up by 0.34 point to end at 6,063.69, while the broader all shares index went up by 0.05% or 1.93 points to end at 3,398.81.

鈥淭he Philippine market ended relatively flat as investors remained cautious. Sentiment held steady as the market waits for developments in possible peace talks in the Middle East, keeping risk appetite in check. Despite this, selective buying in key stocks helped keep the market afloat,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

鈥淭he local market moved sideways, reflective of investors鈥� indecisiveness and cautious trading amid the uncertainties over the Middle East conflict and its impact on the local economy. Hopes of a second round of talks between the US and Iran gave the market support in Thursday鈥檚 session,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message. 鈥淗owever, economic effects brought by the war from rising inflation to the possibility of the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) tightening their policy stance weighed on sentiment.鈥�

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. told 大象传媒 on the sidelines of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank鈥檚 2026 Spring Meetings in Washington, DC that the central bank has room to raise rates to quell rising inflation amid the Middle East conflict as they expect government spending to support growth.

Mr. Remolona said that second-round effects may emerge sooner than expected as the global oil price shock is expected to spill over into domestic food and transport prices.

In March, elevated oil prices amid the conflict drove inflation to a near two-year high of 4.1%, faster than the BSP鈥檚 3.1%-3.9% forecast and 2%-4% target for the year.

In an off-cycle meeting last month, the Monetary Board left benchmark interest rates unchanged. It last raised borrowing costs in October 2023.

Sectoral indices were split on Thursday. Industrials rose by 0.99% or 87.61 points to 8,919.86; financials increased by 0.67% or 12.86 points to 1,915.02; and holding firms went up by 0.65% or 30.20 points to 4,678.74.

Meanwhile, services declined by 1.79% or 50.61 points to 2,776.75; mining and oil retreated by 0.36% or 65.22 points to 18,017.78; and property went down by 0.04% or 0.90 point to 2,017.08.

Decliners outnumbered advancers, 100 to 91, while 64 names closed unchanged.

Value turnover decreased to P7.80 billion on Thursday with 2.14 billion shares traded from the P8.16 billion with 1.45 billion issues that changed hands on Wednesday.

Net foreign selling went down to P1.01 billion from P1.37 billion in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rose by 0.83% or 50.25 points to close at 6,063.35, while the broader all shares index went up by 0.58% or 19.76 points to end at 3,396.88.

鈥淧hilippine equities tracked regional gains as improving risk sentiment, driven by optimism over a potential resumption of US-Iran peace talks, lifted the global markets today,鈥� AP Securities, Inc. said in a market note.

鈥淭he Philippine market rebounded, tracking gains in global markets and improved investor sentiment. Buying pressure emerged after a series of declines, with bargain hunting also driving the recovery,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message. 鈥淥ptimism was further supported after the US President Donald J. Trump signaled that the war may be nearing an end, with talks potentially resuming this week.鈥�

World shares edged towards record highs on Wednesday after Mr. Trump said talks with Iran could resume over the next two days, with hopes for an end to the Iran war capping oil prices at under $100 a barrel, Reuters reported.

The MSCI All-Country World Index rose 0.1%, within sight of its all-time top and on course for its ninth straight day of gains.

Signs that diplomatic engagement would continue in the Middle East helped calm markets.

Asian shares outside Japan had earlier gained 1.5% to hit the highest level in six weeks. Japan鈥檚 Nikkei climbed 0.9% while South Korea鈥檚 KOSPI index added 3%.

Brent crude futures bounced 1% to $95.77 a barrel after slumping almost 5% overnight.

With the flow of oil still effectively cut off through the Strait of Hormuz, the International Monetary Fund on Tuesday lowered its growth outlook and warned that the global economy would teeter on the brink of recession if the conflict worsens.

All sector counters ended higher on Wednesday. Financials jumped by 1.23% or 23.12 points to 1,902.16; services advanced by 1.20% or 33.67 points to 2,827.36; industrials increased by 0.62% or 54.66 points to 8,832.25; property went up by 0.61% or 12.27 points to 2,017.98; mining and oil rose by 0.32% or 59.34 points to 18,083; and holding firms inched up by 0.03% or 1.75 points to 4,648.54.

Market breadth was positive as advancers outnumbered decliners, 112 to 73, while 63 names closed Wednesday鈥檚 trading session unchanged.

Value turnover increased to P8.16 billion on Wednesday with 1.45 billion shares traded from the P5.92 billion with 1.48 billion issues that changed hands on Tuesday.

Net foreign selling increased to P1.37 billion from P446.77 million in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell by 0.67% or 40.95 points to close at 6,013.10, while the broader all shares index went down by 0.27% or 9.40 points to end at 3,377.12.

鈥淭he local market extended its decline as investors continue to worry over elevated oil prices and the inflation risks it poses. This comes as tensions in the Middle East continue with the US blockading the Strait of Hormuz,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

鈥淭he Philippine market closed lower as buying activity stayed on the sidelines, with investors awaiting further developments surrounding tensions in the Middle East… Overall, cautious positioning prevailed as uncertainty continues to limit risk appetite,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message.

Value turnover decreased to P5.92 billion on Tuesday with 1.48 billion shares traded from the P7.8 billion with 789.08 million issues that changed hands on Monday.

Other Asian stocks advanced while oil prices and the safe-haven dollar fell on Tuesday as investors banked on a resolution to the Middle East war even as the US blocked Iran鈥檚 ports after the collapse of peace talks over the weekend, Reuters reported.

Sources told Reuters that Washington and Tehran have left the door open to dialogue, and a US official said there was forward motion on trying to get to an agreement.

The US military began a blockade of Iran鈥檚 ports, angering Tehran and adding uncertainty around the crucial waterway, though shipping data showed a US-sanctioned Chinese tanker passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday.

鈥淢arket sentiment was also weighed down by reports that the Philippines lags behind its ASEAN peers in the FDI Confidence Index,鈥� Mr. Limlingan added.

The Philippines fell to 18^th out of 25 emerging markets in the 2026 Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Confidence Index by Kearney with a score of 1.4635. This was the third straight year the Philippines鈥� ranking declined in the index. It ranked 16^th in 2025, 13^th in 2024 and 12^th in 2023.

Most sectoral indices closed lower. Services slid by 1.44% or 40.98 points to 2,793.69; holding firms sank by 1.36% or 64.24 points to 4,646.79; property dropped by 0.11% or 2.27 points to 2,005.71; and financials slipped by 0.05% or 1.05 points to 1,879.04. Meanwhile, mining and oil jumped by 1.02% or 183.37 points to 18,023.66, and industrials went up by 0.75% or 65.65 points to 8,777.59.

Advancers beat decliners, 110 to 93, while 61 names closed unchanged.

鈥淢onde Nissin Corp. was the day鈥檚 index leader, jumping 6.73% to P6.98. DigiPlus Interactive Corp. was at the tail end, falling 5.39% to P15.80,鈥� Mr. Tantiangco said.

Net foreign selling climbed to P446.77 million from P216.89 million in the previous session. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell by 0.72% or 44.16 points to close at 6,054.05, while the broader all shares index went down by 0.64% or 22.01 points to end at 3,386.52.

The PSEi slipped to the 5,900 level on Monday, logging an intraday low of 5,970.75, but managed to recoup its losses to finish at the session鈥檚 high.

鈥淭he market pulled back as worries over the war in the Middle East resurfaced. This comes as the US and Iran failed to reach a deal in their meeting last weekend followed by President Trump ordering the US Navy to blockade the Strait of Hormuz,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

鈥淧hilippine equities closed in the red as renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East dampened investor sentiment. Concerns escalated after Donald J. Trump threatened Iran with a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, reigniting fears of supply disruptions and a spike in global oil prices,鈥� Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan said in a Viber message. 鈥淐rude has already surged above $100 per barrel following the announcement, raising inflation risks and weighing on risk assets globally.鈥�

Brent crude futures rose $6.67 or 7% to $101.87 a barrel by 0630 GMT after settling 0.75% lower on Friday. US West Texas Intermediate was up $7.26 or 7.5% at $103.83 a barrel following a 1.33% loss in the previous session, Reuters reported.

President Donald J. Trump said on Sunday the US Navy would start blockading the Strait of Hormuz, raising the stakes after marathon talks with Iran failed to reach a deal to end the war and jeopardizing a fragile two-week ceasefire.

Back home, most sectoral indices closed lower on Monday. Financials slid by 2.34% or 45.16 points to 1,880.09; property sank by 1.53% or 31.34 points to 2,007.98; mining and oil dropped by 0.96% or 173.88 points to 17,840.29; industrials retreated by 0.85% or 75.32 points to 8,711.94; and holding firms went down by 0.35% or 16.77 points to 4,711.03.

Meanwhile, services jumped by 1.01% or 28.54 points to 2,834.67.

Decliners outnumbered advancers, 121 to 82, while 69 names closed unchanged.

鈥淥nly four index members closed the day with gains led by Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc., climbing 4.03% to P31. JG Summit Holdings, Inc. was the worst index performer, dropping 5.23% to P27.20,鈥� Mr. Tantiangco said.

Value turnover increased to P7.8 billion on Monday with 789.08 million shares traded from the P6.91 billion with 638.57 million issues that changed hands on Friday.

Net foreign selling was at P216.89 million versus the P1.5 million in net buying recorded on Friday. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters

On Friday, the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rose by 0.13% or 8.30 points to close at 6,098.21, while the broader all shares index went down by 0.19% or 6.63 points to end at 3,408.53.

This was the PSEi鈥檚 best close in nearly a month or since it ended at 6,113.58 on March 12.

Week on week, the bellwether index went up by 99.53 points from its April 1 finish of 5,998.68.

鈥淟ocal equities regained their poise above the 6,000 psychological zone, as the US-Iran two-week ceasefire triggered a sharp decline in oil prices, soothing inflation concerns,鈥� 2TradeAsia.com said in a note.

鈥淭he ceasefire between the US and Iran sparked optimism in the local market, causing it to rise further last week. In the process, the market was able to get back above the 6,000 level,鈥� Philstocks Financial, Inc. Research Manager Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco said in a Viber message.

For this week, developments in the Middle East will continue to be the main sentiment driver, he said.

鈥淧rogressing negotiations and signs that a deal would be reached is expected to lift the market further. If the situation regresses, however, the local market is expected to decline. Overall, investors are still advised to be cautious as the US-Iran ceasefire is deemed fragile.鈥�

He said technical indicators point to a cautiously bullish outlook, adding that progress in the talks could help the PSEi retest its 6,150 resistance line.

鈥淭he global macroeconomic landscape remains tethered to the fragile stability of the Middle East. While a ceasefire between the US and Iran has officially commenced, shipping through the Strait of Hormuz from past days鈥� data remains a mere trickle… Near-term projections suggest the fuel crisis may worsen before it improves,鈥� 2TradeAsia.com added. 鈥淲hile market cycles suggest a recovery is inevitable, the immediate path is rocky and likely to get worse before it gets better.鈥�

It placed the PSEi鈥檚 immediate support at 5,800, resistance at 6,050, and secondary resistance at 6,300.

The US and Iran failed to reach an agreement to end their war despite lengthy talks that concluded on Sunday in the Pakistani capital Islamabad, jeopardizing a fragile ceasefire, Reuters reported.

Each side blamed the other for the failure of the 21-hour-long negotiations to end fighting that has killed thousands and sent global oil prices soaring since it began over six weeks ago.

Iran鈥檚 semi-official Tasnim news agency said that 鈥渆xcessive鈥� US demands had hindered reaching an agreement. Other Iranian media said there was agreement on a number of issues but that the Strait of Hormuz and Iran鈥檚 nuclear program were the main points of difference.

The two sides agreed on Tuesday to a two-week ceasefire in an attempt to wind down a war that began on Feb. 28 with air strikes by the US and Israel on Iran. 鈥� Alexandria Grace C. Magno with Reuters