PSEi up 1.6%, closes at 6,219.96; lower inflation supports gains

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) continued its upward trend on Thursday, rising by 1.6 percent and closing at 6,219.96 after three consecutive sessions of gains.

Volume was strong with 629 million shares worth PHP6.84 billion traded as gainers outnumbered losers-108 to 82, with 59 unchanged.

The lower inflation rate in February continued to support the stock market and peso trading, with investors viewing it positively; Philippine inflation slowed to a five-month low of 2.1%, below expectations and forecasts.

Philstocks Financial Research Manager Japhet Tantiangco highlighted that the slowdown in inflation is expected to boost GDP performance through increased household consumption and potential policy easing by the BSP.

Despite concerns over President Donald Trump's tariffs affecting Wall Street, Philippine shares continued to rise on local economic optimism.