Insider Spotlight
Four core units—SM Investments Corporation, SM Retail, Inc., SM Prime Holdings, Inc., and BDO Unibank, Inc.—were recognized by Hong Kong-based publication FinanceAsia’s Asia’s Best Companies 2026 poll, a regional ranking that draws on votes from institutional investors and financial analysts assessing corporate performance and governance over the past year, according to a company statement.
Why it matters
Because the rankings are based on direct feedback from investors and analysts, the results offer a snapshot of where market confidence is flowing—pointing to conglomerates like SM that are delivering steady execution and long-term value despite uncertain conditions.
SM Investments led the pack with Gold for Best Large Cap Company and Most Committed to ESG, alongside Silver for Best Managed Company in the conglomerates category.
“We appreciate the recognition. It reflects our continued focus on delivering consistent results and creating long-term value for our stakeholders through disciplined execution,” said SM Investments president and CEO Frederic C. DyBuncio.
By the numbers
SM Retail was named Best Managed Company in both Retail and Consumer Durables & Apparel, reflecting its scale and execution across formats.
“This recognition reflects our team’s ability to execute consistently across our retail platforms, anchored on serving Filipino consumers while delivering sustainable long-term value,” said SM Retail president Jonathan Ng.
Zoom in
SM Prime Holdings and BDO Unibank reinforced the group’s multi-sector strength, each earning top management citations in real estate and financials, respectively.
“Earning the trust of the investment community affirms the discipline and consistency of our execution,” said SM Prime president Jeffrey C. Lim.
BDO also saw its leadership recognized, with president and CEO Nestor V. Tan receiving Bronze in the Best CEO (Philippines) category.
“These recognitions underscore BDO’s disciplined pursuit of operational excellence, enabled by managers across the organization who consistently lead with accountability and keep our customers’ needs firmly in mind,” said Tan.
The bottom line
Across retail, property, and banking, SM’s performance points to a clear pattern—investors are rewarding companies that deliver steady execution and long-term value amid shifting market conditions. — Princess Daisy C. Ominga | Ed:Corrie S. Narisma
