Investing in the Philippines: PSE stocks, REITs and funds

Is investing as a foreigner allowed?

Foreign nationals can generally invest in Philippine-listed securities (PSE stocks, REITs, bonds, ETFs) through a licensed local brokerage. Some sectors are restricted for foreigners by the Foreign Investment Negative List — that affects direct business ownership, not ordinary buying of listed shares.

Opening a brokerage account

Local brokers (banks and standalone brokers) open accounts for foreign residents and non-residents. Expect to provide: passport, proof of address in the Philippines or abroad, TIN (Tax Identification Number) or foreign tax ID, bank account for funding and settlement, and a signed account agreement. Some brokers require a minimum initial deposit.

What you can buy

• PSEi stocks — the 30 largest companies on the Philippine Stock Exchange
• Other PSE-listed common and preferred shares
• REITs — Real Estate Investment Trusts listed on the PSE (e.g. mall, office, industrial and residential REITs)
• Government and corporate bonds
• ETFs and unit investment trust funds (UITFs) from local banks

Taxes that apply

Dividends paid to non-resident foreign shareholders are generally subject to a final withholding tax of 15% (rates can vary by treaty and by resident status — confirm your classification with your broker and BIR). Gains from selling listed shares are generally subject to a percentage tax on the gross selling price rather than a capital-gains rate for residents, and the rules differ for residents vs non-residents. Always confirm the current BIR treatment for your exact situation.

Practical notes

• Trading hours on the PSE are roughly 9:30–15:30 Philippine time, with a pre-open auction.
• Settlement is T+2 (two business days after trade).
• Use only SEC-registered brokers — check the SEC list before depositing money.
• Dividends and proceeds land in your peso settlement account.
• Currency risk matters: your returns are in pesos, not euros or dollars.

Risks to understand

The Philippine market is smaller and less liquid than US/EU markets, with higher volatility and governance differences between companies. Past returns are not a guide. If you are not confident choosing individual stocks, a broad PSEi ETF or a UITF may be simpler than stock picking.

¿Algo incorrecto o desactualizado? Reporta un error · Revisado por última vez: 11 agosto 2026. ¿Algo incorrecto o desactualizado? Report an error · Last reviewed: 11 August 2026.