How to trade stocks in the Philippines

James Ryan Jonas

The Philippine stock market seems to be in a bullish trend again.

As of August 2010, the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) is up 20% year-to-date, that is, from January to August 2010. It may not be as high as the 2009 PSE performance of 63% full-year return, but it is a strong sign that things are looking up.

The positive prospects of Philippine stocks may be a reason why more and more people are now joining the stocks bandwagon. But before you make the jump, make sure you know how stock trading works.

Here’s a tutorial basically summarizing the posts we’ve made so far regarding stock trading in the Philippines.

What are stocks and where can I buy stocks in the Philippines?

Stocks are shares of ownership in a corporation. When you become a stockholder or shareholder of a company, you become part-owner of that company. In the Philippines, the only operating stock exchange is the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE).

Stocks Tutorial: What are Stocks?

How do I make money from stocks?

From a variety of ways, including dividends, stock rights, and capital gains.

Stocks Tutorial: How are profits made in the stock market?

What is the minimum amount of money needed to invest in Philippine stocks?

It depends on the board lot of the stock you plan to purchase. In addition, your broker may require a minimum amount of investment.

Stocks Tutorial: How much is needed to invest in the PSE?

How do I start trading stocks in the Philippines?

You will need to find a stockbroker. Click here for a list of online stockbrokers in the country.

Stocks Tutorial: How do I start trading stocks?

I heard the PSE recently implemented new trading rules?

Yes, the revised trading rules have been in effect since July 2010. For a summary of the changes in the trading rules, read New PSE Trading Rules.

I need some more help before I start trading stocks.

Here are some resources that might be of help:

James Ryan Jonas teaches business management, investments, and entrepreneurship at the University of the Philippines (UP). He is also the Executive Director of UP Provident Fund Inc., managing and investing P3.2 Billion ($56.4 Million) worth of retirement funds on behalf of thousands of UP employees.