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THE GIST
NEWS AND FEATURES
Global Philippines Fine Living
INSIGHTS
INVESTMENT STRATEGY
Economy Stocks Bonds Currencies
THE BASICS
Investment Tips Explainers Retirement
WEBINARS
2024 Mid-Year Economi Briefing, economic growth in the Philippines
2024 Mid-Year Economic Briefing: Navigating the Easing Cycle
June 21, 2024
Investing with Love
Investing with Love: A Mother’s Guide to Putting Money to Work
May 15, 2024
retirement-ss-3
Investor Series: An Introduction to Estate Planning
September 1, 2023
View All Webinars
DOWNLOADS
コンテナターミナル
Economic Updates
Philippines Trade Update: Trade deficit narrows but not a sign of strength
August 29, 2025 DOWNLOAD
Frick collection with palm trees 
Economic Updates
Policy Rate Updates: BSP takes on less dovish tone
August 28, 2025 DOWNLOAD
City skyline at sunset in Metro Manila
Economic Updates
Quarterly Economic Growth Release: Stronger case for a BSP cut in August
August 7, 2025 DOWNLOAD
View all Reports

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This week in the stock market
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Chart of the week as of September 1, 2025

SM Prime rides the wave of consumer recovery
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SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPH) stands to gain significantly from the ongoing rise in real wage growth, which drives stronger consumer spending across the Philippines. The country’s leading mall developer is seeing a steady increase in foot traffic and same-mall sales, reflecting a robust recovery in retail activity and consumer confidence. This momentum extends to its residential segment, where core pre-sales have shown sequential growth, supported by aggressive promotional campaigns and targeted marketing strategies. These efforts highlight the company’s ability to capture demand across both commercial and residential markets, reinforcing its position as a key beneficiary of improving macroeconomic conditions.

(Disclaimer: This is general investment information only and does not constitute an offer or guarantee, with all investment decisions made at your own risk. The bank takes no responsibility for any potential losses.)  

Stock watch: Ayala Land, PLDT, Semirara
Makati cityscape at night with lights from buildings and cars.

For the second half of 2025 in the Philippines, the investment strategy will continue to favor liquid and quality stock names, as the economy shows improving yet still fragile characteristics. Given the current macroeconomic backdrop of sustained domestic demand and easing inflation, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is expected to continue its accommodative stance. This should further support economic activity. From a stock-picking standpoint, companies with exposure to resilient consumer segments are particularly favored—with an increased allocation to consumer retail, and real estate being the top pick due to positive market fundamentals and attractive valuations. Banks have maintained their overweight position from the last rebalancing. Utilities and telecommunications remain underweight. The broad category of construction and infrastructure-related firms is not a specific focus. The overall approach emphasizes earnings visibility and strong cash flow generation to navigate any lingering inflation or interest-rate volatility, ensuring resilience in a dynamic market.

Stock Call Index Weight Remarks
SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPH) Overweight 6.8% SM Prime benefits from positive real wage growth fueling consumer spending. The Philippines’ leading mall developer shows rising foot traffic and same-mall sales growth. Moving to its residential business, core pre-sales also grew sequentially, aided by aggressive promotions and marketing.
Manila Electric Company (MER) Neutral 4.3% Power generation earnings surged by 37% year-on-year on robust volume growth and new capacity. However, the distribution segment was flat coming from a high base. San Miguel Corp.'s recent acquisition of Meralco's ~15% public float also creates an overhang if the former decides to liquidate their position.
San Miguel Corporation (SMC) Underweight 0.8% Net income excluding one-offs grew 9% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, supported by contributions from power, infrastructure, and food segments. However, the group's elevated debt and lack of analyst coverage are likely to remain, as significant headwinds for investor sentiment to turn around
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