Thailand’s SET Index closed at 1,246.21 points, increased 0.60 points or 0.05% with a trading value of THB 48.45 million. The analyst stated that the Thai market traded sideways within the range. Though the Index slightly rose, it later dipped towards the end of the session as investors utilized the sell on fact strategy on the banking stocks. Meanwhile, the market also received tailwinds from the buyings of GULF, ADVANCE, INTUCH, as well as PTT.
Next week, the analyst expected the Thai market to continue the trend while investors closely observing the Monetary Policy Committee’s meeting.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is advocating for additional reductions in Thailand’s policy interest rate, aiming to counter weak inflation and lessen the financial pressure on domestic borrowers.
This comes after the Bank of Thailand’s decision last October to lower the rate, a move the IMF endorsed while urging further cuts to enhance inflation support and improve the debt-servicing capacity of Thai households.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports, led by Minister Sorawong Thienthong, has reported that Thailand welcomed over 5.5 million international tourists between January 1 and February 16, 2025, generating more than 270 billion baht in revenue. Key markets continue to drive growth, contributing to the country’s economic recovery.
In January, core consumer inflation in Japan accelerated to 3.2%, marking the fastest rise in 19 months and bolstering expectations that the central bank might continue increasing interest rates.
Following the data release, bond yields climbed as investors anticipated a more aggressive approach to rate hikes by the Bank of Japan (BOJ) amid mounting inflationary pressures.
