6 Stocks for Building Wealth: Long-Term Investments with High Potential
Investing in stocks is a time-tested strategy for building wealth over the long term. In the dynamic landscape of the Philippine stock market, certain stocks stand out as promising opportunities for investors seeking to grow their wealth steadily. Here are six stocks with high potential for long-term growth in the Philippines.
1. Ayala Corporation (AC)
Ayala Corporation (AC) is one of the oldest and most respected conglomerates in the Philippines, with a legacy spanning over 185 years. As a cornerstone of the country’s economy, AC operates across multiple industries, including real estate, banking, telecommunications, water infrastructure, energy, healthcare, and education. Its flagship subsidiaries — Ayala Land, Inc., Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), and Globe Telecom — are leaders in their respective sectors.
One of Ayala’s key strengths is its ability to adapt to market changes and seize new growth opportunities. For example, Ayala Land, the group’s real estate arm, has transformed urban landscapes by developing integrated communities, commercial centers, and residential projects across the country. Meanwhile, BPI continues to drive financial inclusion and digital transformation in the banking industry, making financial services more accessible to Filipinos.
Additionally, Ayala’s investments in renewable energy and sustainable development further position it for long-term growth. As the Philippines focuses on infrastructure development and digital connectivity, Ayala Corporation is well-positioned to benefit from these trends, making it a compelling choice for long-term investors seeking exposure to diverse income streams.
2. SM Investments Corporation (SM)
SM Investments Corporation (SM) is a household name in the Philippines, renowned for its massive shopping malls and retail dominance. However, SM is much more than a retail giant. It’s a diversified conglomerate with significant interests in banking, property development, and tourism, making it a well-rounded choice for long-term investors.
SM Prime Holdings, its property arm, has reshaped urban landscapes with iconic malls, residential communities, and commercial properties. Even during economic downturns, SM Prime has remained resilient, driven by a robust leasing business and a strong pipeline of new developments. Meanwhile, SM Retail continues to expand its footprint, offering everything from groceries to fashion, catering to the country’s growing middle class.
Another pillar of SM’s success is its banking arm, BDO Unibank, which is the largest bank in the Philippines in terms of assets. BDO’s expansive network and digital banking initiatives make it a leader in financial services, further strengthening SM’s diversified portfolio.
As the Philippines’ economy grows, driven by urbanization and rising consumer spending, SM’s diversified business model offers stability and long-term growth potential. It’s an attractive option for investors seeking exposure to the country’s retail and financial sectors while benefiting from SM’s proven track record of resilience and innovation.
3. Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC)
Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC) is more than just a fast-food chain; it’s a cultural icon in the Philippines. With its famous fried chicken and sweet-style spaghetti, Jollibee has captured the hearts of Filipinos and food lovers around the world. But beyond its beloved menu, JFC is a formidable player in the global food service industry, with an expanding international footprint.
JFC’s growth strategy is driven by aggressive expansion and acquisitions. Over the years, the company has acquired several local brands, such as Chowking, Greenwich, and Mang Inasal, diversifying its portfolio and strengthening its hold on the domestic market. On the international front, JFC has made strategic acquisitions, including stakes in brands like Smashburger in the U.S. and Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, further establishing itself as a global player.
The company’s ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and invest in digital transformation is another key factor driving its long-term growth. From enhancing delivery services to expanding its presence on digital platforms, JFC continues to innovate, ensuring it stays ahead of the curve. As the company pushes forward with its global expansion and strengthens its digital capabilities, investors have much to be optimistic about regarding JFC’s growth trajectory.
4. BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO)
BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO) is the largest bank in the Philippines, holding the top spot in terms of assets, deposits, loans, and capital. As a member of the SM Group — one of the country’s biggest conglomerates — BDO has built a reputation for financial strength and reliability. Its comprehensive suite of services includes retail banking, corporate banking, investment banking, wealth management, and insurance, making it a one-stop shop for diverse financial needs.
What makes BDO particularly attractive for long-term investors is its expansive branch network and digital transformation initiatives. The bank has strategically expanded its physical presence across the archipelago, reaching urban centers and underserved communities alike. At the same time, BDO is embracing digital innovation, enhancing its online and mobile banking platforms to improve accessibility and customer experience.
In a rapidly growing economy, where financial inclusion is a national priority, BDO is poised to benefit from the increasing demand for banking services. The rise of digital payments, e-commerce, and fintech solutions further strengthens BDO’s growth prospects. As more Filipinos gain access to financial services and businesses scale up their operations, BDO’s diverse revenue streams and solid risk management practices make it a resilient stock for long-term growth.
Additionally, BDO has consistently demonstrated strong financial performance, even in challenging economic conditions. Its focus on expanding lending portfolios, growing fee-based income, and optimizing operational efficiency makes BDO a top choice for investors seeking exposure to the Philippine banking sector while aiming for steady wealth accumulation.
5. Universal Robina Corporation (URC)
Universal Robina Corporation (URC) is a dominant force in the Philippine consumer goods industry, with a diverse portfolio of products that have become household staples. As part of the Gokongwei Group, URC has built a strong legacy of innovation, quality, and market leadership. The company’s product range spans snacks, beverages, biscuits, candies, instant noodles, and more, making it a key player in the daily lives of Filipino consumers.
One of URC’s major strengths lies in its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences while continuously launching new products to capture emerging trends. Its flagship brands, such as Jack ‘n Jill, C2 Green Tea, and Great Taste Coffee, have become iconic names, driving consistent demand across various market segments. Furthermore, URC’s strategic expansion into international markets, particularly in Southeast Asia, has diversified its revenue streams, reducing reliance on domestic sales.
In a region where consumer spending is on the rise due to rising incomes and urbanization, URC is uniquely positioned to benefit. The company’s robust distribution network and partnerships ensure that its products are widely accessible, even in remote areas. Additionally, URC continues to invest in supply chain efficiency and digitalization, ensuring that it remains competitive in the fast-paced consumer goods landscape.
From an investment perspective, URC presents a compelling opportunity due to its strong brand equity, diverse product lineup, and consistent profitability. The company’s commitment to sustainable practices and innovation further cements its position as a long-term growth stock in the Philippine market. Investors seeking exposure to the consumer goods sector — a sector known for resilience even in economic downturns — may find URC an ideal addition to their portfolio.
6. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV)
Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV) is a diversified conglomerate with a wide-ranging portfolio that spans several industries critical to the Philippine economy, including power generation, banking, infrastructure, food, and real estate. This diversification not only mitigates risk but also offers investors access to multiple growth sectors under one stock.
AEV’s power generation arm, Aboitiz Power Corporation, is a leading player in the country’s energy sector, with investments in renewable energy, coal, and hydroelectric power. As the Philippines increasingly pivots toward cleaner energy sources, Aboitiz Power’s focus on expanding its renewable energy portfolio positions it to benefit from the global push toward sustainability.
In addition to energy, AEV holds a stake in UnionBank of the Philippines, one of the country’s most innovative banks. UnionBank has gained attention for its pioneering efforts in digital banking and financial technology, making it a standout performer in the rapidly evolving financial sector. This gives AEV indirect exposure to the growth of digital finance in the Philippines.
AEV’s infrastructure arm plays a vital role in supporting the country’s development through investments in transportation and water utilities. As the government continues to prioritize infrastructure projects to boost economic growth, AEV is positioned to benefit from these initiatives. Meanwhile, its food and real estate ventures further diversify its income streams, ensuring steady growth even when certain sectors face headwinds.
For investors, AEV offers a well-rounded investment opportunity. Its focus on sustainable development, corporate governance, and long-term value creation makes it not only a responsible choice but also a potentially lucrative one. As the Philippine economy grows, driven by increasing energy demand, digital transformation, and infrastructure expansion, AEV stands out as a long-term growth stock with resilience and stability.
Conclusion
Investing in stocks can be an effective way to build wealth over the long term, especially in dynamic markets like the Philippines. By carefully selecting stocks with strong fundamentals, resilient business models, and growth potential, investors can position themselves for steady returns and capital appreciation. The six stocks highlighted above—Ayala Corporation, SM Investments Corporation, Jollibee Foods Corporation, BDO Unibank, Inc., Universal Robina Corporation, and Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc.—offer investors exposure to diverse sectors of the Philippine economy and high potential for long-term wealth creation.
READ MORE RELATED BLOGS!
READ MORE AND SHARE!
TSOK Chronicles: Unleashing Passion, Dedication, and Excellence in 2024
2023 Your Practical Wedding Guide
Investments and Finance Ultimate Guide
If you like this article please share and love my page DIARYNIGRACIA PAGE Questions, suggestions send me at diarynigracia@gmail.com
You may also follow my Instagram account featuring microliterature #microlit. For more of my artworks, visit DIARYNIGRACIA INSTAGRAM

A multi-award-winning blogger and advocate for OFWs and investment literacy; recipient of the Mass Media Advocacy Award, Philippine Expat Blog Award, and Most Outstanding Balikbayan Award. Her first book, The Global Filipino Bloggers OFW Edition, was launched at the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait. A certified Registered Financial Planner of the Philippines specializing in the Stock Market. A recognized author of the National Book Development Board of the Philippines. Co-founder of Teachers Specialist Organization in Kuwait (TSOK) and Filipino Bloggers in Kuwait (FBK). An international member of writing and poetry. Published more than 10 books. Read more: About DiaryNiGracia
Peace and love to you.