Category: Finance

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Finance

PSE Market Holidays 2026: Important Dates Every Trader Should Know

If you actively trade in the Philippine Stock Exchange, knowing the PSE trading holidays for 2026 is essential for planning your investment moves. Market closures can affect your buying and selling strategies, especially if you’re monitoring global trends or planning around long weekends.

This guide breaks down all the official PSE holidays, expected special non-working days, and smart tips to help Filipino traders make the most of every trading session. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned investor, staying informed means staying ahead.

PSE Trading Holidays in 2026

DateHoliday
Jan 1, 2026New Year’s Day Holiday
Feb 25, 2026EDSA People Power Anniversary
April 1, 2026Maundy Thursday
April 2, 2026Good Friday
Apr 9, 2026Araw ng Kagitingan
May 1, 2026Labor Day
Jun 12, 2026Independence Day
Aug 21, 2026Ninoy Aquino Day
Aug 25, 2026National Heroes’ Day
Nov 1, 2026All Saints’ Day
Nov 30, 2026Bonifacio Day
Dec 24, 2026Christmas Eve
Dec 25, 2026Christmas Day
Dec 30, 2026Rizal Day
Dec 31, 2026Last Day of the Year

PSE Trading Schedule Overview

Regular Trading Hours

  • Pre-Open: 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM
  • Continuous Trading: 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM
  • Lunch Break: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
  • Afternoon Session: 1:00 PM to 3:15 PM
  • Run-Off / Market Close: 3:15 PM to 3:20 PM

When Does PSE Suspend Trading?

Aside from official holidays, the market may close due to:

  • Severe typhoons or emergencies
  • Technical system issues
  • National declarations or special non-working days

Always check PSE Edge or social media for announcements.

Smart Tips to Maximize PSE Market Holidays

Plan Your Trades Ahead

Holiday closures often lead to higher volatility before and after long weekends. Plan your buys, stop-losses, and sell targets early.

Monitor Global Markets

The PSE may be closed, but US and Asian markets continue trading. Use these movements to anticipate local trends once the market reopens.

Use Holidays to Review Your Portfolio

Quiet days are perfect for checking:

  • Your gain/loss ratio
  • Diversification
  • Stock fundamentals
  • Upcoming catalysts

Stay Updated With PSE News

  • PSE Edge
  • PSE Official Facebook & X Pages

Knowing the PSE trading holidays in 2026 helps you trade smarter, avoid unnecessary delays, and make well-timed decisions. Bookmark this page and stay tuned for updates once the official PSE holiday calendar is released. For more guides, tips, and updates, check out lifeguide.ph.

Remember to conduct thorough research, seek professional advice if needed, and make informed investment decisions based on your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Categories
Finance

PSE Trading Hours 2026: When and How to Trade Smart

If you’re investing or planning to start trading in the Philippine Stock Exchange, understanding the PSE trading hours for 2026 is your first step to becoming a smarter investor. Timing matters in the stock market, and knowing exactly when the market opens, closes, or experiences its busiest periods can help you make better buy or sell decisions.

Whether you’re a beginner, long-term investor, or active trader, this guide breaks down the full schedule, special holidays, and the best times to execute your trades so you can maximize every market day.

Official PSE Trading Hours in 2026

The Philippine Stock Exchange follows a consistent weekday schedule, except during holidays or special announcements.

PSE Trading Hours

TimeMarket WindowTrading Activity
9:00 AM – 9:15 AMPre-OpenOrders can be placed, modified, or cancelled
No matching orders
9:15 AM – 9:30 AMPre-OpenNo cancellation period
9:30 AM – 12:00 NNMarket OpenOrders can be placed, modified, or cancelled
12:00 NN – 1:00 PMMarket RecessOrders cannot be placed
1:00 PM – 2:45 PMMarket ResumptionOrders can be placed, modified, or cancelled
2:45 PM – 2:47 PMPre-CloseOrders can be placed, modified, or cancelled
No matching orders
2:48 PM – 2:50 PMPre-CloseNo cancellation period
2:50 PM – 3:00 PMRun-offOrders can be placed and matched at closing price
3:00 PMMarket CloseOff-hours orders can be placed, which will be sent to the PSE on the next trading day during pre- open session

Philippine Stock Market Holidays 2026

The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) observes closure during weekends and on public holidays. A list of public holidays for the year 2026 is available, indicating the specific dates on which the PSE will remain closed to trading activities.

The PSE is closed during all regular Philippine holidays, plus announced non-working days. These include:

  • New Year’s Day
  • Holy Week (Maundy Thursday & Good Friday)
  • Labor Day
  • Independence Day
  • National Heroes Day
  • Bonifacio Day
  • Christmas & Rizal Day

Tip: Always check PSE’s official website or their X (Twitter) page for last-minute schedule changes.

Best Times to Trade in the PSE

Not all minutes of the trading day are equal. Certain time periods are more active, while others are more volatile. Here are the most strategic times:

1. Opening Hour (9:30 AM – 10:30 AM)

This is where the market reacts to overnight global news. Volume is high, and many investors adjust their positions.
Best for: Active traders who can handle volatility.

2. Midday Calm (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Prices tend to stabilize as the morning hype settles.
Best for: Long-term investors looking for calmer price movements.

3. Power Hour (2:00 PM – 3:00 PM)

Often the busiest session as traders finalize their positions.
Best for: Both beginners and experienced traders.

Tips to Maximize PSE Trading Hours

Watch Global Market Sentiment

The PSE can be influenced by US, Europe, and Asian markets. Check news before the 9:30 opening.

Set Your Buy or Sell Orders in Advance

Using your brokerage platform, prepare orders before trading hours to avoid rush decisions.

Know Your Trading Strategy

Are you day trading, swing trading, or long-term investing? Your timing will vary depending on your strategy.

Track Market Announcements

Company disclosures (dividends, earnings, mergers) often affect stock movement throughout the day.

Use Alerts and Watchlists

Most trading apps in the Philippines (COL, BDO Nomura, FirstMetroSec, etc.) give free price alerts.

Why Understanding PSE Market Hours Matters

Better Timing = Better Profits

Knowing the busiest and calmest times helps you enter the market with more confidence.

Avoid Missed Opportunities

If you’re not aware of cut-off times, you risk missing an important trade.

Helps You Stay Disciplined

Trading becomes less emotional when you have a structured routine.

Understanding the PSE trading hours for 2026 gives you a strong advantage in timing your trades wisely. Whether you prefer the opening hour’s volatility or the afternoon’s momentum, knowing the right moments helps you make better financial decisions.

For more smart money tips, investment guides, and daily life hacks, check out other articles on lifeguide.ph and stay updated with our latest financial breakdowns.

Remember to conduct thorough research, seek professional advice if needed, and make informed investment decisions based on your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Categories
Finance Government

Latest Pag-IBIG Contribution 2025

The latest Pag-IBIG contribution for 2025 brings important updates that every Filipino employee, employer, and voluntary member should be aware of. Whether you’re preparing your budget, checking your payslip, or planning to grow your savings, understanding these new rates helps you stay compliant and financially prepared.

In this guide, we’ll break down the updated contributions, how they affect your monthly deductions, and why paying Pag-IBIG consistently remains one of the smartest financial moves for Filipinos in 2025 and beyond.

Pag-IBIG Contribution Table for 2025

Source: Pag-ibig Fund

Why Pag-IBIG Contributions Matter in 2025

1. Bigger Savings and Dividends

Pag-IBIG consistently gives attractive dividends yearly. The more you contribute, the more your money grows.

2. Access to Affordable Housing Loans

Your updated contribution ensures you’re eligible for Pag-IBIG housing loans with competitive interest rates.

3. Calamity and Multi-Purpose Loans

Members can easily access financial assistance when they need it most.

4. MP2 Boost Opportunities

With no increase in contribution rates, members can continue maximizing Pag-IBIG’s MP2 Savings, which remains one of the most popular investment options for Filipinos.

The Pag-IBIG contribution for 2025 remains affordable and beneficial for Filipinos looking to secure their savings and future. Whether you’re preparing for a home loan, building long-term savings, or securing emergency assistance, staying updated ensures you maximize every benefit.

For more financial guides, government updates, and lifestyle tips, visit lifeguide.ph for your next read.

Categories
Finance

Best Digital Banks with High Interest Rates in the Philippines 2025

2025 Guide to Digital Banks in the Philippines with Competitive Interest Rates

Digital banks have become the go-to for many Filipinos who want a simple way to save, earn decent interest, and manage money from their phone. If you are looking to grow your emergency fund or stash money for a big goal, digital banks often give higher interest rates than traditional brick-and-mortar accounts. In 2025, several players stand out for competitive base rates and time deposit promos.

In this guide, we compare the most popular digital banks in the Philippines, show their current interest rates and promos, and explain what type of saver each bank suits best.

Read on to find the best option for your saving style and balance, and don’t forget to double-check the bank’s promo terms before you move money.

What to expect from digital banks in 2025

Digital banks usually offer higher base interest or attractive time deposit rates because they have lower operating costs. Expect a mix of steady base rates and time-limited promo boosts. Some banks give step-up rates or boosted promo rates if you meet certain conditions. Always check minimums, promo dates, and whether interest is credited daily or monthly.

Digital banks and their interest rates

Below are the major digital banks Filipinos use, along with their typical rates and notable 2025 promos.

SeaBank or MariBank

  • SeaBank and other digital entrants often publish tiered rates; for example community posts and announcements in 2025 showed SeaBank offering 3.5% p.a. up to certain balance caps. Because some updates are announced on social pages or via partner apps, always confirm on the official bank page or app for exact caps and effective dates.
  • Your PHP 150.00 bonus is waiting! It takes just minutes to join MariBank. Don’t forget to cash in with my code: CA393422

Tonik Bank

  • Tonik solo stash and similar products around 4% p.a.; end-of-day balance for basic accounts may be lower.
  • Why choose Tonik: higher fixed-term rates if you can lock funds, easy stash features for goal-based saving.

CIMB Bank (including GSave by CIMB)

  • GSave (GCash x CIMB): commonly listed at around 2.6% p.a. for GSave balances.
  • Promos: CIMB has run periodic high-interest promo campaigns in 2025 that boost eligible deposit yields up to double-digit rates for promo periods (example: up to 10% p.a. or higher in limited promotions). These are time-limited and have qualifying criteria.
  • Why choose CIMB: stable partner for GSave users and strong promo series for short windows if you meet promo requirements.

Maya Bank

  • Maya Savings interest around 3.5% p.a., credited daily.
  • Promos: Maya also runs Personal Goals offers that may raise effective yields for limited amounts or periods.
  • Why choose Maya: integrated app ecosystem for payments plus decent base yields and goal accounts.

GoTyme Bank

  • Go Save: effective interest around 3.5% p.a.
  • Why choose GoTyme: straightforward savings product, low fuss, good for everyday savers.

UNO Digital Bank

  • UNO lists a step-up structure commonly 3.0% gross p.a. for low balances and 3.5% for balances from ₱5,000 up to lower millions; promo windows have offered boosted daily interest rates.
  • Promos: UNO has run “quadruple your daily interest” or other campaign promos; check terms for dates and eligibility.
  • Why choose UNO: competitive step-up structure for mid-sized savers and frequent promos.

Digital Bank Savings Interest Rates in the Philippines in 2025: Quick Comparison

Digital BankInterest Rate (p.a.)
Tonik Bank4% p.a. (solo stash / group stash vary).
SeaBank / MariBankUp to 3.5% p.a. for balances up to ₱1,000,000
Maya Bank3.5% p.a.
GSave by CIMB (via GCash)2.6% p.a.
GoTyme Bank (Go Save)3.5% p.a.
UNO Digital Bank3.00% p.a. (balances <₱5,000), 3.50% p.a. (balances ₱5,000–₱4,999,999.99)
UnionDigital Bank3.00% p.a. (below ₱5M) / 3.50% p.a. (₱5M and above)

How to Choose a Digital Bank That Aligns with Your Unique Saving Style

  1. Match rate type to your goal. If you want short-term high yield, check promo terms and lock-in rules. For emergency funds, prefer daily-credit savings with no penalty.
  2. Watch promo dates and eligibility. Many banks run time-limited boosted rates in 2025; these can be lucrative but may require new cash-in, minimum deposits, or holding periods. Always note exact promo dates.
  3. Consider convenience and ecosystem. If you use a payments app daily, a bank integrated with your app (GCash for GSave, Maya app for Maya Bank) may be easier.
  4. Check deposit insurance. Make sure the product is covered by PDIC up to PHP 1,000,000 per depositor when applicable. Banks indicate PDIC coverage on their sites.

Quick tips before you move money

  • Compare base rate vs promo effective rate and read the fine print. Promo yields are often conditional.
  • Use time deposits only if you can lock funds for the stated term.
  • Keep copies or screenshots of promo T&Cs if you open an account under a promo offer.
  • Re-check rates monthly. Digital banks update rates or launch promos several times a year.

Digital banks in the Philippines give you more ways to make your money work harder in 2025, especially if you take advantage of time deposit promos or higher base savings rates. Pick the bank that fits your timeline and risk tolerance, and always double-check the bank’s latest rates and promo dates.

For convenience, check the official bank pages or the app before transferring funds.

Categories
Finance Government

Latest SSS Contribution Table 2025

The Social Security System (SSS) is a government program that helps Filipinos stay financially secure when life takes an unexpected turn. By collecting and managing contributions from members, the SSS provides valuable support through different benefits and services.

As an SSS member, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re covered with sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, and death benefits.

Here’s the new SSS Contribution Table for 2025:

Regular Employers and Employees

Self-Employed Members

Voluntary Members and Non-Working Spouse

Household Employers and Kasambahay

Source: SSS