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SINGAPORE—The Philippine peso fell to its lowest in
three weeks, leading losses in Asian currencies, on
speculation overseas investors are selling local assets
to convert their holdings into the dollar.
The peso
was the region’s worst performer as global funds reduced
holdings of local stocks for a 12th day.
The peso
“is basically driven mostly by offshore players,
probably buying up the dollar,” said Rafael Algarra, a
treasurer at Security Bank Corp. in Manila. “I would
think this is mostly trading-related, not
demand-related.”
The
currency declined 0.8 percent to 44.65 per dollar as of
the 4 p.m. close in Manila, according to the Bankers
Association of the Philippines.
Overseas
investors sold more Philippine stocks than they bought
on each of the past 12 trading days, according to
stock-exchange data, the longest stretch since January.
The Dollar index traded on ICE Futures in New York
reached the highest since February 12 on speculation a
decline in commodity prices will support US economic
growth and boost the demand for dollars. (Bloomberg) |