BPI Wealth assets breach P2 trillion, eyes 18% growth

The asset management division of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), known as BPI Wealth, anticipates a 18% growth in assets under management (AUM) this year as Filipino investors gravitate towards fixed-income securities and global investment funds to manage inflation, a weaker peso, and market volatility. As of the end of June, BPI Wealth's AUM stood at P2.06 trillion, marking a five percent increase from P1.95 trillion at the end of March.

The president and CEO of BPI Wealth, Maria Theresa Marcial, expects AUM to expand by 17 to 18% by the end of 2026, with the firm aiming for double-digit growth throughout the year and beyond. The increase in managed assets can be attributed to both new client investments and gains in existing portfolio values. Fixed-income instruments and diversified global funds have seen significant interest during the first seven to eight months of the year, as investors seek to hedge against higher interest rates and persistent inflation.

BPI Wealth has introduced peso-denominated investment products that offer exposure to overseas markets, such as the Global Income Fund, World Technology Fund, and Global Equity Fund of Funds. These products have attracted encouraging net inflows, indicating a growing demand for investment opportunities beyond the domestic market.

Current assets now account for roughly 15 to 20% of the company's total AUM, underscoring the increased inclination of investors towards international diversification. BPI Wealth is also broadening its customer base, serving approximately 1.5 million clients, with a majority belonging to its digitally served retail segment. The company is targeting younger affluent families and new high-net-worth clients to expand its private wealth business.