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Overseas news
The US Federal Reserve (the Fed) will likely wait at least a year before making any changes to its balance sheet, even if Fed chair nominee Kevin Warsh takes over as the central bank’s next chief. This was according to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
Previously, Warsh criticized the Fed’s bond buying activity as he advocated for reducing the central bank’s balance sheet.
Late last year, the Fed grew its balance sheet through bond purchases, a move that was intended to boost market liquidity and help keep interest rates steady.
Meanwhile, Taiwan’s January exports surged by 69.9% year-on-year to reach a record $65.77 billion. This was largely due to the global demand for AI-related chips and technology, the country’s finance ministry said.
Local developments
Domestic claims of Philippine nonbank financial institutions (NBFIs) climbed 11.62% year-on-year to hit P11.024 trillion in the 3rd quarter of 2025. This was shown in the preliminary results of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) Other Financial Corporations Survey (OFCS).
Growth was fueled by increased lending and investments across depository firms, the government, and other private sectors. Higher borrowing activity was supported by the BSP’s moves to ease interest rates.
The OFCS measures the claims (or assets) and liabilities of “other financial corporations” (OFCs). These entities provide financial services but aren’t banks, non-banks with quasi-banking functions, non-stock savings and loan associations, or the central bank.
Additionally, Meralco said electricity rates in Metro Manila and neighboring areas are set to increase this month due to higher spot market prices and the weakening peso.
Higher electricity rates can affect both households and businesses. Such increases could hike manufacturing costs, which may impact the prices of goods.
Further, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has set up a group to create a data-driven rice import strategy. The group will work to balance market prices with local farmers’ interests.
As a food staple, changes in rice prices can have a significant impact on consumers and even the inflation rate.
Currently, the news doesn’t hint at major changes happening right away. It might be wise to continue following your strategy if it still works for you.
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