Phl trails Asean neighbors in capital market viability

The Philippines may be one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia, but the country is lagging behind regional peers in terms of overall viability of its capital market, according to a report.

- By ELIJAH FELICE ROSALES

In a study conducted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the Philippines was flagged for multiple issues that hinder its capital market from progressing.

For one, the OECD said the country charges one of the highest listing fees in Southeast Asia, and this is hindering investors, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), from going public.

"Regarding smaller firms, the SME Board only has 10 companies and the private equity market is nascent. Listing fees are relatively high and the fee structure is more complex than in the peer countries," the report said.