
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of the Philippines is taking steps to align the nation’s short-selling practices with major Asian markets. The move aims to enhance liquidity, stabilise the market, and further reveal the value of shares in Philippine corporations, stated SEC Chairperson Emilio B. Aquino. Short-selling allows investors to profit from a stock’s price decline, a practice prevalent in countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia. The SEC is also considering mandating periodic reports on short-selling activities and securities borrowing and lending (SBL) to ensure compliance with existing regulations. Aquino emphasised a balanced approach, combining necessary safeguards without hindering investors from leveraging this trading strategy.