Thailand
Thailand's Economic Growth Slows to 1.9%
Thailand's second-quarter economic growth decelerated to 1.9%, significantly below the first-quarter rate of 2.8%, as energy price increases counteracted government stimulus efforts. The government planning agency subsequently upgraded its full-year forecast to 2.0-2.5% growth.
Policymakers Should Build AI Era Fiscal Safety Nets
Economic experts propose modernized adjustment assistance and expanded capital ownership to protect workers from AI-driven displacement. Fiscal insurance mechanisms could mitigate income inequality risks.
Thai stock market outperforms globally on foreign buying
The Stock Exchange of Thailand has significantly outpaced international equities markets, gaining 29 percent year-to-date through July 2026. Foreign investor inflows have been the primary driver of the SET index's strong performance.
Thailand's Myanmar Diplomacy Strains ASEAN Unity
Bangkok's recent diplomatic outreach to Myanmar undermines ASEAN's collective stance on the country's political crisis. Thailand's unilateral approach risks fragmenting the regional bloc's consensus on handling the situation.
China Expands Yuan Role in International Trade
China continues efforts to increase the Chinese yuan's usage in global trade transactions. The strategic shift aims to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar.