MANILA — The Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi) closed lower on Monday, April 13, 2026, as renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East rattled investor confidence.
The benchmark index fell by 0.72 percent, or 44.16 points, to settle at 6,054.05. Market analysts attributed the decline to escalating concerns following the collapse of talks between the United States and Iran, coupled with threats of a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.
"The broader market pulled back as concerns resurfaced over the ongoing conflict," said Japhet Tantiangco, research manager at Philstocks Financial. "This was particularly after the United States and Iran failed to reach a deal, alongside reports of a planned blockade of the Strait of Hormuz."
Luis Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Corp., noted that geopolitical worries intensified after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened Iran with a blockade, reigniting fears of potential oil supply disruptions and a spike in global crude prices.
"Crude has already surged above $100 per barrel following the announcement, raising inflation risks and weighing on risk assets globally," Limlingan added.
Trading activity remained moderate, with a net value turnover of P6.57 billion. Foreign investors were net sellers, recording outflows of P216.89 million.
Sectoral performance was mostly negative, with only the services index posting a gain of 1.02 percent. Banking stocks led the decline, shedding 2.35 percent, reflecting a risk-off sentiment among market participants.
Market breadth was weak, with decliners outnumbering advancers 121 to 82. Only four index members finished higher for the day, with Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. emerging as the top gainer, climbing 4.03 percent to P31.