Citi Philippines recently held its annual Perspectives event for Markets clients with the theme, “Navigating Economic Growth Amidst Geopolitical Shifts.”
In his opening remarks, Citi Philippines CCO and Banking Head, Paul Favila, affirmed that economic prospects in the country remain strong amid a changing global market.
“As the world’s most global bank, Citi is in a unique position to help clients navigate these geo-political shifts. The Philippines is a key market for Citi, and we are able to leverage our local knowledge and longstanding presence in the country with our global insights to enable clients to grow globally,” Favila said.
Around 80 clients attended the forum which featured speakers including Johanna Chua, Citi ‘s Head of Emerging Market Economics and Chief Asia Economist, Nalin Chutchotitham, Citi Economist for Thailand and the Philippines, and Blake Herzinger, Director for Policy, Strategy and Advocacy, Government Affairsfor Japan, Asia North & Australia and Asia South.
Looking into 2025, Citi Research adjusted Philippines’ GDP growth forecast from 6.0 percent to 5.9 percent due to the slightly softer momentum coming from 2024.
“In this dynamic environment, Citi Philippines Markets continue to encourage offshore investors to participate in the Philippines’ growth opportunities and at the same time assist local clients who want to expand into global markets,” Favila said.
Wilmer Bautista, Citi Philippines Markets Head said Citi’s priority is to connect foreign corporates with access to the Philippines’ market and to support local corporates to expand further into global markets, particularly with their corporate FX hedging and risk management needs.
“We are in this with them for the long haul and we intend to deliver the full range of our expertise and services to our clients and customers,” Bautista said.
