The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) expects a 3- to 4-percent hike in its energy sales for the first half of this year.

After the complete buyout by Banco de Oro Unibank (BDO) of one of the country’s biggest rural banks (RBs), One Network Bank (ONB), the stage is set for the country’s biggest banks to enter micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). 

Washington—Americans bought homes in June at the fastest rate in over eight years, pushing prices to record highs as buyer demand has eclipsed the availability of houses on the market. 

Athens, Greece—Greece’s radical left-led government emerged bloodied but alive last Thursday from a key vote in parliament, which overwhelmingly approved new creditor-demanded reforms, despite a revolt among hardliners in the main coalition partner. 

The hotel arm of listed property developer 8990 Holdings Inc. plans to invest P1.5 billion to expand its hotel portfolio over the next six years, riding on the domestic tourism boom.

The local stock market can sustain its rally in the next few years, depending on the ability of the next leader to continue the Aquino administration’s reforms focusing on macroeconomic stability, a financial expert said.

By Riza Lozada The European Union (EU) had sought a clearer policy on the installation of solar panels on rooftops of factories.

By Jerry Maglunog Local money changers mostly accept only four currencies and gift certificates (GCs) of a popular mall chain because these are the notes that have several users. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said the foreign-exchange shops do not violate any provision in their license in the purchase of popular gift checks.

Delegates to the Regional Social Dialogue Conference, held recently in Manila, have drawn up recommendations in pursuit of an “inclusive, stable, and sustainable Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) with an inclusive, stable and sustainable Asean financial structure.”

The Philippines is not exempt from economic setbacks as a result of global difficulties, such as the Greek debt crisis, but it remains attractive to portfolio investors, as shown by the volume of foreign portfolio investments.