Finance

The Senate approved on third reading two bills to safeguard remittances of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) amid Middle East crisis concerns. These include transparency in remittance fees and free financial education. Sen. Joel Villanueva said it ensures every peso reaches OFW families.

March 17, 2026 Reported by AI

Continuing its depreciation trend since breaching 90 in late 2025, the Indian rupee fell 14 paise to 92.42 against the US dollar in early trade on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Rising crude oil prices, foreign fund outflows linked to the West Asia crisis, subdued domestic equities, and a stronger dollar weighed on the currency, as traders awaited the US Federal Reserve's interest rate decision.

IDBI Bank shares have fallen nearly 30% over the past month due to delays in the government's strategic stake sale. Financial bids reportedly fell below the floor price, prompting uncertainty. Experts offer mixed advice on whether to buy, hold, or sell the stock.

March 16, 2026 Reported by AI

A Seeking Alpha analyst has reaffirmed a buy rating on Alcon (ALC) stock, highlighting its eyecare portfolio amid the abandoned acquisition of STAAR Surgical. The assessment points to resilience against market shocks and positive earnings forecasts for FY26.