QAR & PHP - Markets & outlook
Qatari rial - QAR:
December 22, 2025
Key Developments Affecting the Qatari Riyal (QAR):
1. QCB Activates QA-RTGS System for Enhanced Transactions (December 9, 2025):
- The Qatar Central Bank (QCB) launched the Real-Time Gross Settlement System (QA-RTGS), enabling efficient processing of QAR and foreign currency transactions between local banks. This initiative aims to improve transaction speed, security, and support Qatar's digital banking transformation. (thepeninsulaqatar.com)
2. QNB Forecasts US Dollar Moderation (March 1, 2025):
- Qatar National Bank (QNB) projected a moderation in the US dollar's value due to fiscal consolidation measures and potential monetary easing by the Federal Reserve. This anticipated trend could influence the QAR's exchange rate dynamics. (qna.org.qa)
3. QCB Reduces Interest Rates to Support Economic Growth (December 22, 2024):
- The QCB lowered deposit and lending interest rates by 30 and 25 basis points, respectively, to stimulate the economy and maintain the stability of the QAR amid global economic changes. (qnbfs.com)
4. Qatar's International Reserves Increase (July 2025):
- Qatar's international reserves and foreign currency liquidity rose to 260 billion riyals by the end of July 2025, up from 251 billion in July 2024. This growth underscores the country's economic stability and its ability to manage external shocks. (bestexchangerates.com)
These developments highlight Qatar's proactive measures to maintain the stability and strength of the Qatari Riyal in the face of evolving economic conditions.
Philippine peso - PHP:
December 22, 2025
Key Developments Affecting the Philippine Peso (PHP):
1. Anti-Corruption Protests Impacting Investor Confidence: Nationwide demonstrations since September 2025, demanding accountability for alleged corruption in government-funded flood control projects, have raised concerns about political stability and governance. (en.wikipedia.org)
2. IMF's Economic Outlook: The International Monetary Fund forecasts the Philippines' growth to slow to 5.1% in 2025, with inflation projected at 1.7%. This outlook reflects challenges in the global economy and domestic issues. (imf.org)
3. Strengthening of External Buffers: In October 2025, the Philippines reported a US$706-million balance of payments surplus, boosting gross international reserves to US$110.2 billion. This provides a buffer against external pressures on the peso. (context.ph)
4. BSP Signals End of Rate Cuts: On December 11, 2025, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) cut interest rates by 25 basis points but indicated that further easing would be limited, aiming to support domestic demand and stabilize the peso. (tradingeconomics.com)
These factors collectively influence the Philippine Peso's performance, reflecting a complex interplay of domestic political events and economic policies.
