Q4 GDP GROWTH HITS POST-PANDEMIC LOW

PESO FALLS TO ITS WEAKEST: OUR CLOSEST TO PHP60

The Philippine peso fell to its weakest level ever against the US dollar, hitting a record low of 59.45PHP to $1. The US dollar has been firm globally, partly due to expectations about interest rate policy overseas, which makes other currencies, including the peso, weaker.

What does this mean for Filipinos? As the dollar continues to rise against the Philippine Peso, it boosts the value of remittances sent home by OFWs and can help Filipino exports become more competitive, although this can affect businesses that rely on imported goods for their business, especially on Oil, as import costs may rise. Prolonged depreciation could inflate the peso value of foreign debt held by the government (Business Inquirer, 2026)

PH ECONOMY SLOWS: Q4 GDP GROWTH EASES TO 3%

The Philippine economy grew by 3.0% in Q4 2025, the slowest post-pandemic pace, the PSA reported. This was down from 5.3% in Q4 2024 and slower than the revised 3.9% in Q3 2025. On a seasonally adjusted quarter-on-quarter basis, growth was 0.6%.

The result missed forecasts despite the usual holiday boost: the government had projected 4.7%–4.8%, while economists expected 4.2%. Officials cited two main drags: the flood-control corruption scandal and typhoon-related disruptions. Public construction spending plunged 41.9% (with infrastructure spending down nearly 42%), and overall government spending growth eased to 3.7% in Q4. Household consumption slowed to 3.8%, slowest since -4.8% in Q1 2021, and investments fell 10.9%.

For 2025, GDP grew 4.4% (vs 5.7% in 2024), below the 5.5%–6.5% target for the third time. Excluding the pandemic, Q4’s performance was the weakest in 16 years.

PRECIOUS METALS SELL-OFF: SILVER DROPS 15%, GOLD SLIDES 7%

Global gold and silver markets saw a dramatic shift earlier this week after prices plunged sharply from recent record highs. Following a historic sell-off that pushed silver down by more than 30 % and pressured gold prices significantly, both metals extended their decline as investors continued to unwind positions amid a stronger U.S. dollar and shifting market expectations. Traders and analysts have described the downturn as one of the steepest corrections in precious metals in decades, reflecting heightened volatility and a reevaluation of safe-haven assets. While some see this as part of a broader market adjustment, others caution that volatility may linger before prices stabilize.

HELLO, JANUARY 2026! IS8 STARTS THE TERM STRONG: RECAP OF LEADERSHIP, LITERACY, AND SUCCESS

ALL HANDS ON DECK: IS8’S 2ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Investors’ Society kicked off the second term with its Second General Assembly, bringing members together to reconnect and set the tone for the months ahead. Starting the year right in 2026, the org enjoyed light icebreakers, snacks, and bonding activities.

The assembly also gave members a quick preview of upcoming highlights, including IS Summit, ISIP, and the org’s different publications. With fresh energy and a clear roadmap, IS is ready to take on the term together.

IS SUMMIT 2026 OFFICIALLY START REGISTRATIONS

Registration is now open for IS Summit 2026, the DLSU Investors’ Society’s one-day investment conference happening on March 28, 2026. Expect expert talks, panel discussions, and a Company Booths Fair, open to DLSU and non-DLSU students.

Tickets are now on sale: Early Bird ₱219 (Jan 31–Feb 28), Regular ₱249 (Mar 1–26), and Walk-in ₱349 (Mar 28, subject to availability). Slots are limited.

References can be found here.