Citi underscored the significant growth potential of emerging markets, particularly the Philippines, while emphasizing the continued resilience of the global economy despite prevailing uncertainties.
The message set the tone for its recent client briefing themed “Future Forward: Economic Insights for the Next Chapter,” which convened Citi Philippines’ clients and partners across sectors to discuss the evolving economic outlook.
Why it matters
Emerging markets are navigating a complex mix of geopolitical risks, trade realignments, and tighter financial conditions.
For investors and corporates, Citi’s outlook suggests that select economies like the Philippines remain well positioned to capture long-term opportunities even as near-term growth moderates.
What they’re saying
Paul Favila, Citi Philippines’ CEO and banking head, framed emerging markets as increasingly central to global growth.
He said, “For the rest of the world, emerging markets are dynamic, pivotal players that are actively shaping and benefiting from the growing shifts in global trade and investment. These markets are leveraging these to become prime destinations for foreign investment.”
Favila noted that while global challenges persist, including shifting trade policies, political risks, and domestic pressures, many emerging economies are adapting in ways that strengthen their investment appeal over time.
The big picture
Keynote speaker Johanna Chua, head of emerging markets economics and chief Asia economist at Citi Research, delivered a deeper dive into emerging markets performance, with a particular focus on the Philippines.
She acknowledged recent setbacks tied to public investment but stressed that the broader fundamentals remain intact.
Johanna said, “Where we see Philippine growth, we unfortunately took a little bit of a hit given what has happened in public investment. But fundamentally, we still have good balance sheets, so notwithstanding the challenging slowdown for now, we’re not seeing any systemic risks that are evolving.”
Between the lines
Despite headwinds, Citi sees the Philippines benefiting from structural strengths, including a young and expanding workforce and ongoing reforms that liberalize foreign-investment rules.
Chua also pointed to abundant growth opportunities across multiple sectors, suggesting that temporary slowdowns do not undermine the country’s longer-term trajectory.
What’s next
The briefing concluded with Wilmer Bautista, Citi Philippines markets head, reaffirming the bank’s commitment to clients.
“Amid the challenges and uncertainty, Citi Markets is well positioned to provide world-class solutions and an unmatched global presence. We will continue to share our knowledge and insights with our clients as a trusted advisor,” he said.
For emerging markets like the Philippines, the consensus from the discussion was clear: a future shaped by resilience, innovation, and sustained potential despite global uncertainty.
—Ramon C. Nocon | Ed: Miguel R. Camus
