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17 Depositary Receipts on US, Hong Kong Securities to Start Trading in Thailand on June 12

The Stock Exchange of Thailand said 17 new depositary receipts issued by InnovestX Securities will start trading on the local bourse on Friday, June 12.The DRs represent securities from Hong Kong, Nasdaq, and the New York Stock Exchange.The offerings span semiconductors, AI infrastructure, fintech, space, and healthcare sectors. Key underlying names include Intel, Coinbase Global, SoFi Technologies, Synopsys, Eli Lilly, Berkshire Hathaway, among others.The move is aimed at giving Thai investors easier access to global high-growth companies via a local trading platform, it said.

Market Chatter: Thailand Weighs Bid to Join CPTPP as US Pressures Rise

Thailand is re-evaluating its bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) as rising protectionism and US tariff pressures reshape global trade dynamics, The Nikkei Asian Review reported Thursday.Citing Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, the report said that the country should move ahead with the pact without waiting for other trade negotiations to conclude. He said weakening global trade rules is accelerating a shift toward regional frameworks such as the CPTPP.Thailand is also working to finalize its long-running free trade agreement negotiations with the European Union this year, according to the report.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)

Thailand's Forex Reserves Rise to $287.5 Billion in May

Thailand's international reserves rose to $287.5 billion in the week ended May 29, according to data released by the Bank of Thailand on Friday.The reading compares with the $285.6 billion recorded a week earlier.The weekly movement was primarily driven by a rise in foreign currency reserves to $246.3 billion, while the central bank's gold holdings were valued at $34.2 billion.

Thailand SEC, TikTok to Boost Financial, Investment Literacy

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Thailand has partnered with TikTok Thailand to strengthen financial and investment literacy while building resilience against online fraud through a new initiative.Under the "Fin-Talk with TikTok" campaign, content creators will be encouraged to produce accurate and easy-to-understand financial content, with guidance on responsible communication, platform rules, and engaging storytelling techniques, according to a Thursday press release by the regulator.The collaboration also includes a memorandum of understanding to focus on improving digital literacy and awareness of investment risks and scams.A nationwide video contest will also be launched, allowing creators and the public to submit content and win prizes, with further details to be announced via TikTok's official SEC channel, the watchdog said.

World Bank Lowers Thailand's 2026 Growth Outlook to 1.7%

The World Bank lowered its 2026 economic growth forecast for Thailand, citing the impact of higher energy prices, weaker external demand, and heightened uncertainty stemming from the conflict in the Middle East.In its latest Global Economic Prospects, released Thursday, the international organization said Thailand's gross domestic product is expected to grow 1.7% in 2026, down from its January forecast of 1.8%.GDP growth is projected to improve to 2.1% in 2027, then accelerate to 2.4% in 2028 as geopolitical uncertainty eases, energy prices stabilize, and external demand recovers.

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World Bank Forecasts Slower East Asia-Pacific Growth in 2026

The World Bank lowered its 2026 economic growth forecast for the East Asia and Pacific region as the conflict in the Middle East raises energy costs, disrupts supply chains, and weighs on external demand.The international organization said it expects growth in East Asia and the Pacific to moderate to 4.2% in 2026 from 5.0% in 2025, according to its Global Economic Prospects report released Thursday.Growth in the region is projected to edge up to 4.3% in 2027 and 2028 as energy prices ease and geopolitical uncertainty diminishes.Excluding China, economic growth is forecast at 4.4% in 2026, down from 4.8% in 2025, before improving to 4.9% in 2027 and 2028.

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Market Chatter: Asia May Face Stagflation Amid Middle East Crisis, ADB President Says

With the war in the Middle East driving up inflation in global economies, Asian economies are at risk of stagflation, Nikkei Asia reported Thursday, citing Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda.As inflation pressures mount, "There is now a risk of stagflation spiral" due to "declines in demand through lower real wages, and increases in debt burdens from higher interest rates," Kanda told the news outlet on the sidelines of Nikkei's annual Future of Asia forum.According to Kanda, higher shipping, energy, and input costs will lead to a further rise in consumer prices in Asia. There was a risk that the supply chain system would "physically stop functioning," he said.Asian countries are especially impacted by the energy crisis arising from the Middle East war, as they are highly dependent on energy imports that come in through the Strait of Hormuz, the report added."In addition to diversification of the destination of oil and gas, accelerated use of renewable energy and safe nuclear power, as well as stronger energy saving, should have been promoted," Kanda said.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)

Thai Consumer Confidence Index Hits Lowest in 42 Months in May

Thailand's consumer confidence deteriorated to the lowest level in 42 months in May, according to survey data from the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).The latest Consumer Confidence Index slipped to 49.5 in May from 50.6 in April. A reading above 100 indicates positive sentiment, while a reading under 100 suggests pessimism.UTCC attributed the drop to the US-Iran conflict and high oil prices.The index for current economic conditions shrank further to 33.6 from 34.7 the previous month, while the index for future economic conditions edged down to 57.3 from 58.3.

Asia4d ago

Market Chatter: Thailand's Minor Food Weighs Singapore IPO Instead of Hong Kong

Thailand's Minor International is reportedly weighing a public listing for its restaurant unit, Minor Food Group, in Singapore rather than Hong Kong amid strong interest from investors in the city-state.Bloomberg News reported Thursday, citing sources, that the group, which operates brands including Burger King, Dairy Queen, and The Pizza Company, could raise more than $400 million. Financial advisers are assisting, though no final decision has been made, according to the report.Minor International did not immediately respond to' request for comment.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)

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Asia5d ago

Thailand, Vietnam Eye $50 Billion in Bilateral Trade, Deeper Ties

Thailand and Vietnam are aiming to boost bilateral trade to $25 billion initially, with a later target of $50 billion, Vietnam News Agency reported Wednesday citing Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.Thailand and Vietnam have agreed to boost ties through increased economic, political, and defense collaboration, according to a statement by the Thai Government's office Wednesday.The announcement came after Anutin met Vietnamese Party General Secretary and State President To Lam in Hanoi on Tuesday during a visit to Vietnam to attend the third Asean Future Forum.Anutin ordered commerce, transportation, resources, energy, industry, social development, and BOI and related agencies to expedite cooperation in numerous fields, according to the statement.

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Asia5d ago

Market Chatter: Thailand Accelerates EU Free-Trade Talks Amid US Tariff Uncertainty

Thailand is accelerating negotiations on a free-trade agreement with the European Union as it seeks to diversify trade ties amid uncertainty over U.S. tariffs, Bloomberg reported Tuesday, citing Thai Trade Representative Werapong Prapha."The reason why we're accelerating the EU FTA so much is because we want to diversify as quickly as possible," Werapong said in an interview.He reportedly added that Thailand aims to reduce its reliance on both Chinese and U.S. supply chains.Thailand is also negotiating tariff issues with the U.S. and hopes to secure treatment comparable to other Southeast Asian economies, according to the report.Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's government is targeting an agreement with the EU by the end of the year. The bloc is Thailand's fourth-largest trading partner and a market of more than 450 million consumers, Bloomberg said.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)

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International7d ago

Asia Week Ahead: Inflation Prints; GDP Estimates; and Trade Balance

For the week ahead in Asia, inflation, trade and growth data will be in focus as investors assess the region's economic momentum.The week opens with Japan's revised first-quarter GDP figures, followed by trade data from China and Taiwan on Tuesday.Mid-week, China's consumer and producer inflation reports will dominate headlines, while Japan will release producer price data.Thursday will be led by unemployment figures from South Korea and Malaysia, before Friday brings India's inflation report.Here's what to watch in the week ahead.MONDAY, June 8The week was off to a relatively light, but notable start with Japan's first-quarter GDP growth rate.Japan's economy expanded at an annualized rate of 1.8% in the first quarter, according to final data released by the Cabinet Office. The reading was revised down from the preliminary estimate of 2.1% growth, but exceeded the market consensus forecast for a 1.3% increase, according to Trading Economics.The data comes as attention turns to the Bank of Japan's June 15-16 policy meeting, where policymakers are expected to consider another interest-rate increase. The growth figures are unlikely to derail expectations for further policy tightening.TUESDAY, June 9Data readouts will pick up Tuesday, starting with China's trade figures for May.Economists at ING said they expect China's exports to rise 19.5% year-on year and imports to gain 36.4% for a trade surplus of $86.5 billion. The surplus would be an increase from the $84.8 billion recorded in April, thanks in part to higher tech prices, which are boosting both export and import prices, ING said.Taiwan will similarly report trade figures, with ING expecting the island nation's trade surplus to rise to $15.5 billion from $14.4 billion in April. "Strong export orders from previous months suggest external demand remains robust amid the AI boom," ING said in a preview.Markets will be watching for any revisions to South Korea's first-quarter GDP growth rate when the Bank of Korea releases its final estimate on Tuesday.The central bank's advance estimate indicated that South Korea's real GDP increased 3.6% annually and 1.7% on a quarterly basis.In Australia, a pair of reports will capture business and consumer sentiment, while in the Philippines, unemployment stats will be due.Other key data scheduled for the day include Japan's machine tool orders.WEDNESDAY, June 10China's consumer and producer price inflation will dominate headlines Wednesday.Consumer prices are expected to show an uptick of 1.3% year on year in May from 1.2% a month prior, reflecting higher manufacturers' input and output prices due to the Middle East conflict, the Wall Street Journal reported.Japan will similarly report its May producer prices, with analysts expecting the PPI to accelerate to 5.5% year on year from 4.9% in April, according to a Trading Economics consensus.Indonesia will release its May consumer confidence report on the same day.THURSDAY, June 11Unemployment data from South Korea and Malaysia will be the highlight of the day.According to Trading Economics, South Korea's unemployment rate could remain unchanged at 2.80% in May. The platform similarly forecasted that Malaysia's unemployment would remain steady at 2.90%, a level it has held since November 2025.A forward-looking report on consumer inflation expectations will be due in Australia. According to Trading Economics, consumer inflation expectations could rise to 6.5% for June from the 5.6% estimated in May.Meanwhile, Indonesia will report its retail sales stats for April.FRIDAY, June 12India's May inflation data will be in the news Friday.Economists at ING said they expect consumer prices to pick up to 3.9% year on year from the 3.48% recorded in the month prior due to a rise in gasoline prices. Still, the figure would be below the Reserve Bank of India's 4% target."The key risk to the outlook lies in potential second-round effects on food inflation. Fertiliser shortages, alongside the rising probability of an El Niño event, could exert upward pressure on food prices in the coming months and warrant close monitoring," ING said in a preview.Friday will also feature industrial production reports from Japan, Malaysia, and Hong Kong, with Malaysia additionally reporting its retail sales stats for April.In Thailand, the consumer confidence report for May will be due.On the activity front, the Business NZ manufacturing purchasing managers' index report will be due in New Zealand. CommBank said it expects manufacturing activity in May to stabilize, or even lift somewhat, given a decline in fuel prices over late April and May.The Business NZ PMI previously dropped to 50.5 in April from 52.8 in March.

International10d ago

Thailand's Inflation Eases to 2.79% in May

Thailand's consumer price index rose 2.79% in May from a year earlier, easing from a 2.89% increase in April, the country's Trade Policy and Strategy Office said on Friday.The reading came in below analysts' expectations for a 3.90% increase, according to Investing.com data.The core inflation, which excludes volatile energy and fresh food prices, rose by 0.92% in May from a year earlier, faster than the 0.83% increase in April and against analysts' 0.9% consensus forecast.

Asia10d ago

Market Chatter: Thailand's Gulf Development to Invest Up to 140 Billion Baht in Data Centers

Gulf Development plans to invest up to 140 billion baht over the next five years to expand data centers and digital infrastructure to meet growing demand for artificial intelligence and cloud computing, Bloomberg News reported Thursday, citing Chief Financial Officer Yupapin Wangviwat.Thailand's largest power producer aims to add up to 2,000 megawatts of data center capacity during the period, according to the report.The company and its partners currently operate facilities with a combined capacity of about 200 megawatts, Bloomberg added.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)

US Markets11d ago

Thai Business Confidence Pressured by Persian Gulf Hostilities

Higher fuel bills and the unresolved Strait of Hormuz closure undercut Thailand business confidence in May, reported the Bank of Thailand.Thailand's Business Sector Index fell to 42.5 in May from 43.5 in April, striking further below the 50-mark that separates optimism from pessimism."In May, the Business Sentiment Index (BSI) declined due to the prolonged Middle East conflict, which weakened the manufacturing index, while the non-manufacturing index remained stable at a low level," said the central bank. "High production cost was the top concern for doing business for the third consecutive month."Confidence especially waned in Thailand's petrochemical and plastics industries, which faced sharper higher bills in their feedstocks derived from crude oil, and also prospects of supply shortages.About 50% of Thailand's imported oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz, before the current conflict there closed the vital passageway, reported NBT World, a government news service.Confidence in Thailand's hotel and restaurant sector also declined, with sentiment sinking to the lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic, as tourist arrivals slowed.Thailand's food and beverage industry confidence also waned, as producers were pressured by packaging costs that have risen by 30% to 50% "compared to the pre-conflict period," said Bank of Thailand. In addition, the food industry in May faced delayed orders from the Middle East, due in part to high freight rates.Thailand businesses in May expected inflation in the 2.7% range for the next 12 months, down from the 2.9% rate anticipated in April, though still up from the sub-2% rate expected before the closure of the Strait of Hormuz in late February.However, Thailand businesses were less pessimistic in May than in April, with the three-month expected business confidence index rising to 46.9 in May from 40.9 in April, though still striking below the 50-mark.In the manufacturing sector, "raw material shortages eased, despite high raw material price pressures," noted the Bank of Thailand, due in part to national government actions to release petroleum reserves.Among Thailand's service industries, the mood in the transportation sector in May improved due in part to better supplies and some ability of transporters to pass on higher fuel bills.The Bank of Thailand May BSI survey had more than 660 respondents, from large and medium-size firms. The questionnaires were distributed during the first week of May.