PSE braces for more delistings

More delistings at the Philippine Stock Exchange are expected this year as low share prices make it challenging to raise capital, thus making it unappealing for public companies to bear the burden of complying with stringent requirements to remain listed at the bourse.

- By JAMES A. LOYOLA

Abacus Securities Vice President and Head of Research Nicky Franco expects fewer listed companies in 2026, as the role of publicly listed firms will shrink further this year.

“Broadly depressed valuations make it attractive to privatize (especially with lax PSE guidelines) and, at the same time, discourage new listings,” he explained.

There were three delistings of common shares at the PSE last year against only two initial public offerings. These included the giant IPO of Maynilad Water Services and the small-market debut of Top Line Business Development Corporation.