Emerging markets: Philippines hits 2-month high as curbs ease, Thai politics take limelight

Traders work on the trading floor of the Philippine Stock Exchange amid the coronavirus disease outbreak, in Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines. Shares jumped nearly 2% on Tuesday as an easing of coronavirus restrictions cheered investors in Manila. - Reuters

MANILA, Oct 20 (Reuters): Philippine shares jumped nearly 2% on Tuesday as an easing of coronavirus restrictions cheered investors, while Thai markets headed for a fifth session of losses as anti-government protests dented hopes for a domestic economic recovery.

The Philippines, one of Asia's worst hit countries in the pandemic, shortened curfew hours in Manila and eased regulations on stay-at-home orders on Monday, just a week after a ban on non-essential overseas travel was lifted.