PSEi ends lower after volatile session

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) ended Thursday slightly lower after a volatile session influenced by the release of fourth quarter GDP data and global market trends.

The PSEi closed at 6,851.84, down 0.17%, with all sectoral gauges except Holding Firms and Property finishing in negative territory.

Fourth quarter GDP contracted by 8.3%, better than the expected 8% contraction but still a significant decline from previous quarters.

Investors were cautious following the US Federal Reserve's message, leading to selling pressure despite positive local economic data.

The peso remained stable against the US dollar at 48.11, with volume totaling USD1.19 billion.