PSE Climbs 1.86% as Ceasefire Hopes Boost Investor Sentiment

The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) index climbed on Monday, closing at its intraday high of 5,942.16, up 108.52 points or 1.86%, as improving geopolitical sentiment lifted investor confidence.

The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) Index, May 4, 2026

The rally was driven by signs of de-escalation in tensions between the United States and Iran, with reports of a ceasefire and ongoing exchanges of peace proposals.

However, uncertainty persisted as crude oil prices rose above $100 per barrel following reports of missile strikes on a U.S. warship in the Strait of Hormuz. The key shipping lane, which handles about a fifth of global crude oil supply, remains disrupted, with Iran reportedly controlling access routes.

The services sector led the gains, rising 4.36%, boosted by International Container Terminal Services Inc., which surged 6.06% to P753, and DigiPlus Interactive Corp., which jumped 9.72% to P14.90.

Consumer stocks also advanced, with Jollibee Foods Corporation gaining 3.71% and Century Pacific Food Inc. rising 4.56%, as investors positioned for a potential easing of global tensions.

The mining and oil sector was the only decliner, with Apex Mining Co. Inc. slipping 0.37% to P16.28 and Philex Mining Corporation falling 2.66% to P9.15.

Net foreign buying reached P341 million, while total value turnover stood at P6.51 billion. Market breadth was slightly positive, with 102 gainers versus 91 losers.