Philippines beats ASEAN peers, posts impressive 7.5% GDP

Here's what boosted this growth.

According to BBVA Research, in contrast to relatively disappointing Q2 GDP outturns in Indonesia (5.8%), Malaysia (4.3%), and Thailand (2.8%), the Philippines today posted an impressive 7.5% y/y (consensus: 7.2%; Q1: 7.7%) reading.

Here's more:

Growth was led by domestic demand, especially private consumption and government spending. Given the strong first-half outturn, growth is likely to exceed our 6.1% full-year projection.

However, the Philippines has not been spared recent emerging market currency and stock market turmoil, which may weigh on investment and growth during the remainder of the year.