Tips on stock picking in times of high inflation
Inflation concerns persist but stock market investors are advised not to be disheartened by this scenario. Inflation slowed to 6.3% in August (from 6.4% in July) due to easing oil prices and slower increases in food prices. Inflation now averaged 4.9% year-to-date and BDO Securities expects it to settle at 5.3% for this fiscal year assuming inflation will peak this quarter. However, the Philippines remains vulnerable to inflation risks given its status as a food and energy importer.
“Philippine inflation basket is more sensitive to food and energy commodities (oil, coal, rice). While commodity price trends have softened as of late (due to slowing global growth concerns), we think domestic factors (i.e. tight food supply) are set to become the primary drivers of inflation going forward,...