<p><strong>Stock prices slumped while oil prices surged after US President Donald Trump expressed skepticism regarding the extension of the US-Iran ceasefire, </strong>casting significant doubt on the likelihood of a lasting peace deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Gold prices remained stable</strong> as investors cautiously monitored upcoming diplomatic discussions between the US and Iran.</p>

<p><strong>Fitch Ratings lowered the Philippines' credit outlook to negative, </strong>citing a severe energy shock that is hindering economic growth and complicating the government’s efforts to maintain long-term fiscal stability.&nbsp;</p>

<ul><li data-list-item-id="e1fc555305ebcff2e38fb178b8af86687"><strong>The Philippine Balance of Payments (BoP) deficit expanded to USD 2.6 billion in March,</strong> driven by increased outflows and the rising cost of imports amid volatile global energy and commodity markets.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li data-list-item-id="e0e2d98af6c94bd72e269690eccdc8b9d"><span data-teams="true"><strong>BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. said the Philippine banking sector remains resilient and well-capitalized,</strong> maintaining a strong position despite the economic pressures exerted by the global oil crisis.&nbsp;</span></li></ul>