SM Group Expresses Optimism for 2025

The SM Group is entering 2025 with cautious optimism, driven by consistent household demand and a year-on-year growth of 5.1% in Household Final Consumption Expenditure, despite economic challenges such as peso volatility and inflation. Frederic C. DyBuncio, CEO of SM Investments, emphasized that any moderation in inflation could bolster consumer confidence, creating new opportunities in the market. The group plans to expand into underserved areas, enhancing access to modern retail and financial services while promoting sustainable economic development. SM continues its investments in renewable energy, particularly through the Philippine Geothermal Production Company, which produces 300 megawatts of geothermal steam. Additionally, SM is focused on logistics improvements to better connect goods across the Philippines, further stimulating economic activity. The conglomerate's net income for the first nine months of 2024 reached P60.9 billion, a 9% increase from the previous year.