Over the same period, SM’s total assets surged by 900 percent, supported by a 12-percent compounded annual growth rate—anchored on its integrated expansion across retail, property (SM Prime), and banking (BDO Unibank and China Banking Corp.).
The nearly P1 trillion conglomerate also owns a host of portfolio companies such as 2GO Group, Airspeed, Goldilocks, Atlas Mining and Philippine Geothermal Production Co.
Management’s view
“Over the past two decades, we’ve consistently created value, delivering steady returns to our investors while expanding opportunities for our people and communities. This legacy of growth and value creation continues to drive us forward,” SM Investments president and CEO Frederic C. DyBuncio said in a statement.
“The next 20 years will see SM continue to lead in retail, property, and banking, while expanding into new regions where growth is accelerating, especially in provincial areas,” he added.
Buyback a vote of confidence
To commemorate the milestone, SM recently launched a historic $1 billion share buyback program, its largest ever, signaling long-term confidence in its business and the Philippine economy.
• SM now operates 87 malls, 4,470 retail stores, and 2,441 bank branches, with over 85 percent of this footprint in provincial areas.
• In 2024 alone, it added 619 retail stores, 2 malls, and 73 bank branches, accelerating its push into emerging regional markets.
• SM Prime has also allocated P100 billion this year to expand its malls, residential, and hotel projects.
“Our buyback program is a clear signal of our confidence in the future of both SM and the Philippine market. We believe in our country’s potential and in the enduring value SM will continue to create for its shareholders,” DyBuncio said.
Schools, scholars
As part of its inclusive growth strategy, SM Foundation has granted 6,619 college scholarships, built 110 school buildings, and trained over 32,000 farmers—aligning business gains with broader social impact.
What’s next?
“We will continue to expand opportunities for Filipinos, providing greater access to modern retail, banking and integrated property developments that will help foster community, innovation, and sustainability for the next generation,” DyBuncio said.
“As we look to the future, we remain focused on inclusivity and empowerment. Our brand promise, “We’ve got it all for you,” has served us well for years. But as we move forward, we aim to build an SM for All, one that reaches and benefits every Filipino, ensuring that our growth is shared by all,” he added.
