The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) kept its policy rate unchanged, citing global uncertainties, with Governor Eli Remolona hinting at possible 50 basis point cuts in 2025.
The unexpected decision reflects concerns over global trade tensions. Remolona told CNBC, “We’re hedging to avoid reversing course. We aim to stay on an easing trajectory.” On One News TV, he added that pausing now was less disruptive than cutting prematurely and backtracking.
The move follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for reciprocal tariffs, heightening trade war risks and inflation concerns. While Remolona noted limited direct impact from U.S. policies, he warned of significant global spillover effects.
The Philippine economy, driven by domestic consumption, underperformed in Q4 2024. To address global uncertainties, the 2025 growth target widened to 6.0%-8.0% from 6.5%-7.5%.
The BSP will continue monitoring global trends and consult with peers before its next policy review on April 3. Investors await further signals on the central bank's easing path.


Japanese Pharmaceutical Stocks Slide as TrumpRx.gov Launch Sparks Market Concerns
Trump Endorses Japan’s Sanae Takaichi Ahead of Crucial Election Amid Market and China Tensions
Vietnam’s Trade Surplus With US Jumps as Exports Surge and China Imports Hit Record
Australia’s December Trade Surplus Expands but Falls Short of Expectations
RBA Expected to Raise Interest Rates by 25 Basis Points in February, ANZ Forecast Says
Bank of Japan Signals Cautious Path Toward Further Rate Hikes Amid Yen Weakness
Global Markets Slide as AI, Crypto, and Precious Metals Face Heightened Volatility
Japan Economy Poised for Q4 2025 Growth as Investment and Consumption Hold Firm
Fed Governor Lisa Cook Warns Inflation Risks Remain as Rates Stay Steady
China Extends Gold Buying Streak as Reserves Surge Despite Volatile Prices
RBI Holds Repo Rate at 5.25% as India’s Growth Outlook Strengthens After U.S. Trade Deal
Dollar Steadies Ahead of ECB and BoE Decisions as Markets Turn Risk-Off
Singapore Budget 2026 Set for Fiscal Prudence as Growth Remains Resilient
Gold Prices Slide Below $5,000 as Strong Dollar and Central Bank Outlook Weigh on Metals
U.S. Stock Futures Slide as Tech Rout Deepens on Amazon Capex Shock
Gold and Silver Prices Slide as Dollar Strength and Easing Tensions Weigh on Metals 



