Peso dips as dollar demand rises
By Michelle Remo
INQ7
MANILA, Philippines - The peso dipped a bit Thursday, shedding off 14 centavos from the previous day's close.
The local currency ended Thursday's trading at P46.17 against the US dollar, versus the P46.03 registered Wednesday.
Traders said the minimal decline of the peso was due to demand by some corporate entities for dollars, as they prepare for importation of raw materials and other goods.
Others said the peso's movement was in line with that of regional currencies, as the dollar generally gained momentum amid improving sentiment concerning the US economy.
The peso reached an intraday high of P46.1 against the greenback, weaker than the high of P46.02 registered Wednesday. The lowest value Thursday was recorded at P46.23.
Market players said the peso is expected to move today to a level just close to Thursday, noting they were not expecting substantial triggers for either a sharp appreciation or depreciation.
Banco de Oro expects trading of the local currency to range between P46 to P46.3 Friday, said market strategist Jonathan Ravelas.