Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

CIMB Thai Bank (CIMBT) plans to expand the number of its independent financial advisors (IFAs) to 500 by the end of this year, amid intensifying competition in the financial advisory profession.

According to Bhudinan Sethanandha, head of affluent and wealth management at CIMBT, the bank has grown its IFA network from 30-40 advisors at the beginning of the year to around 150, targeting 500 by year-end.

This expansion is driven by the strong growth of its wealth management business and a shortage of financial advisors across the industry, he said.

“Competition for IFAs in the financial sector — including banking, securities and asset management — has become increasingly fierce. CIMBT is among the first banks to actively recruit for this role,” said Mr Bhudinan.

Across the Thai financial market, there are around 20,000 IFAs, steadily increasing in recent years. IFAs at each financial institution possess varied areas of expertise, aligning with the distinct financial products and services of each institution.

At CIMBT, the bank focuses its IFAs primarily on the secondary bond market, which represents its service strength, he said. The secondary bond market in Thailand has posted continued growth.

Trading volume in the secondary bond market contributed largely by individual investors is expected to reach 55 billion baht this year, up 10% year-on-year.

CIMBT accounts for around 30% of this total trading volume.

The bank offers financial transactions to individual wealth clients via an omni-channel model that combines human advisory support with digital platforms, ensuring access to sophisticated financial products.

Mr Bhudinan said the bank plans to expand its IFA network next year to support the continued growth of its wealth management business.

CIMBT, a mid-sized bank, aims to triple its assets under management in five years, which will require building sufficient human resources to meet increasing demand, he said.

The bank also wants to increase its relationship managers for wealth management clients from more than 100.

CIMBT will continue to enhance its digital platforms to provide customers with greater convenience and efficiency for financial transactions, said Mr Bhudinan.

Flooding persisted in 19 provinces on Wednesday, mainly in the Central Plain and the Northeast, with water levels generally unchanged or a little down.

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reported on Wednesday that the Central Plain was the hardest hit, with eight flooded provinces – Uhai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Suphan Buri, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani and Nakhon Pathom.

Flood levels were unchanged in Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ayutthaya and Nakhon Pathom but lower in Uthai Thani, Ang Thong, Suphan Buri and Pathum Thani.

In Chai Nat the Chao Phraya River flowed through the Chao Phraya barrage at the stable rate of 2,400 cubic metres per second, according to the Royal Irrigation Department.

In the Northeast, there was flooding in Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Sukhothai, Phichit and Nakhon Sawan. Flood levels were unchanged in Phitsanulok, Phichit and Nakhon Sawan and were receding in Uttaradit, Phetchabun and Sukhothai.

Four other northeastern provinces — Chaiyaphum, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani and Yasothon — also experienced flooding, with stable flood levels.

The only eastern province affected was Chachoengsao, where flood levels were rising in Bang Nam Prieo district.

The Meteorological Department said from Thursday to Tuesday next week rain would decline in the North and the Northeast and increase in the Central Plain, the East and the South.

Prime Minister and Bhumjaithai Party (BJT) leader Anutin Charnvirakul has welcomed several prominent politicians from Nakhon Ratchasima’s influential “Baan Yai” (Big House) political clan, as well as some former Pheu Thai Party MPs, who have officially joined the BJT ahead of the next general election.

Those switching sides included Kosol Patama, incumbent Pheu Thai MP for Nakhon Ratchasima; Phongsakorn Annopphon, former Pheu Thai MP for Khon Kaen; Thawirat Rattanaset, former Pheu Thai MP for Nakhon Ratchasima; and Tattirat Rattanaset, son of veteran politician Wirat Rattanaset. The group submitted their membership applications to join the BJT in preparation for the upcoming polls.

Mr Anutin said the move underscored that the government was on track to dissolve the House within four months, reaffirming that all political parties must now prepare for elections expected early next year.

“We’re all one family,” he said. “I’ve known Mr Phongsakorn for over 30 years — we once belonged to the same party, and I’ve always respected him as an elder brother. Mr Thawirat and Mr Tattirat are like my own nephews. We’ve known each other for a long time.”

When asked if the new recruits signalled an effort to strengthen the BJT’s presence in Nakhon Ratchasima, Mr Anutin said the party aimed to combine a new generation of leaders with seasoned politicians who understand local needs.

“Our party’s strength lies in its accessibility,” he said. “We listen to MPs and deliver what people need. That’s how we earn and keep the public’s trust.”

On whether more MPs from other parties would join, Mr Anutin said the BJT remained open to anyone committed to serving the nation.

“We don’t discriminate or set restrictions,” he said. “Anyone dedicated to public service, free from personal gain or ethical problems, is welcome.”

Asked if the BJT aimed to emerge from the next poll as the biggest political party, Mr Anutin said the focus was on connecting policies with the people through local candidates.

“Many MPs have told me in parliament they like our policies and want to join next time. If someone has the trust of the people and integrity, we’ll gladly welcome them,” he said.

Mr Anutin added that the current wave of political movement was a healthy sign of competition.

“Pheu Thai has just launched its team of MPs — that’s good. Other parties like the People’s Party, Kla-Tham, and the Democrats are also regrouping. This benefits democracy. Every party must keep improving its policies and strategies for the people’s benefit,” he said.

Mr Kosol told reporters he was unsure whether more Pheu Thai MPs would follow suit, but said that former Pheu Thai MP Noppadon Patama, his relative, had also been invited but had not made a decision yet due to family commitments. He said he decided to join the BJT because of the mutual respect and open working style within the party.

“I feel comfortable here. Mr Anutin showed me respect and invited me to work together in the future,” Mr Kosol said, adding that while he remains a sitting Pheu Thai MP for now, he was expressing his intention to contest the next election under BJT’s banner.

Port forward Teerasak Poeiphimai says he is ready to help the War Elephants in their upcoming home-and-away AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifying matches against Taiwan.

Thailand’s men’s national football team held their first training session in Bangkok on Monday evening, kicking off preparations for their Group D qualifying games Thursday and on Oct 14.

Thursday’s clash will take place at Bangkok’s Rajamangala National Stadium at 7.30pm. The return fixture will be played at Taipei Municipal Stadium, and will start at 5.30pm (Thai time).

Teerasak said he is in a confident frame of mind following his recent performance for Port.

“Scoring in my recent club game has boosted my confidence. I just hope our fans will come and support the team,” said the striker.

“Being the lone striker brings some pressure, but I’ll do my best to help the team win and earn three points from each match.

“It’s a big advantage to be playing the first game at home. If we can score some goals on Thursday, it will ease the pressure before the away game in Taipei next week.”

Meanwhile, winger Anan Yod­- sangwal of Lamphun Warriors, who has replaced injured Buriram United forward Supachai Chaided in the national squad, said he is pleased to be recalled and will try to perform at his best.

He added that he feels less pressure than during his first national call-up, and that his recent league goals and assists have made him mentally stronger.

Anan described Taiwan as a quality side with strong support and said the Thai team will study their opponents and adapt accordingly.

Both matches will be broadcast live on Thai Rath TV (Channel 32), BG Sports Channel on YouTube, and True Visions NOW.

Twenty victims, assisted by activist lawyer Ronnarong Kaewpetch, chairman of the Foundation for Justice in Society, have filed a lawsuit against a self-proclaimed “Naga medium” accused of swindling over 20 million baht.

Mr Ronnarong led the group to the Central Investigation Bureau on Tuesday to lodge complaints against a woman known online as the “Divine Consort of Indra”, “Phet Phatthara Naga”, or “Ajarn Min”.

The alleged victims say they were duped into purchasing talismans and participating in rituals that were claimed to improve fortune and prosperity but later proved ineffective. Some reportedly paid in instalments despite being in debt.

The lawyer said the acts may constitute public fraud and could violate the Computer Crime Act and the Consumer Protection Act. Evidence submitted included bank transfer slips, chat records, promotional clips, and advertising materials.

Investigators were urged to trace financial transactions across 18 related bank accounts, suspected of laundering large sums, said Mr Ronnarong.

One victim, a 46-year-old dentist identified only as “Khun Tee”, said she was persuaded by “Ajarn Min”, who claimed to channel a divine Naga spirit.

Min allegedly charged tens of thousands of baht for amulets she claimed to be “personally chosen by celestial beings”.

However, the items were later found to be cheaply made and resold at exorbitant prices. After the allegations surfaced, Min reportedly blocked communication and refused refunds, she said.

Another victim said she was deceived via a Buddhist teaching page and discovered that donation funds were misused and that celebrity photos were exploited without consent to promote credibility.

The Energy Ministry aims to generate 720 billion baht in investment for energy development projects, notably solar power and carbon capture storage, putting Thailand on a fast track towards its net-zero goal, achieving it 15 years sooner than the target date.

The projects are meant to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and stimulate the economy under the ministry’s “Quick Big Win” energy campaign, aligning with the policy of the Anutin Charnvirakul government that wants to see Thailand strike a balance between greenhouse gas emissions and absorption by 2050.

Former prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha told the UN Climate Change Conference four years ago that Thailand’s net-zero target would be attained by 2065.

“The combined projects are expected to create 16,000 jobs and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 10 million tonnes a year,” said Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon.

Among the tasks is a push for solar-powered water pumps for farmers in areas spanning 700,000 rai of land nationwide.

He said authorities will encourage communities and companies to co-invest in developing solar farms to sell electricity to the government.

Mr Auttapol also plans to speed up a project to have the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand install floating solar farms at its three dams: Bhumibol, Vajiralongkorn and Srinagarind.

The government is also granting tax reductions for 90,000 households that install rooftop solar panels.

In addition, authorities plan to invest in installing carbon capture systems worth 540 billion baht to help Thailand reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

According to Mr Auttapol, the ministry will step up efforts to launch a pilot project for a direct power purchase agreement (PPA) next month.

Known as a direct PPA, the agreement is a form of electricity trade that lets power companies directly sell clean power to clients, particularly electricity-intensive data centre operators.

Peer-to-peer power trade in the renewables category remains banned in Thailand.

The direct PPA scheme with power generation capacity of 2 gigawatts in the first phase requires an investment budget of 65 billion baht.

“Foreign investors in digital tech businesses, especially data centres, still depend on electricity from fossil fuels, but they will demand more clean energy in the future,” he said.

“We should seize this opportunity to increase investment.”

Mr Auttapol said authorities are also drafting a new version of the power development plan, which will guide the country’s long-term power supply management, with a greater focus on renewable power.

In today’s fast-changing economy, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) matter more than in the past.

They create jobs, contribute to GDP value, and open up opportunities for innovation.

Yet, while SMEs are often praised as the “backbone” of the Thai economy, praise alone will not help them thrive.

What they need is not just government handouts or temporary aid, but also a sustainable business ecosystem.

Beyond Small Shops

SMEs are more than corner shops or family businesses. Official definitions include firms with annual sales of up to 500 million baht in the manufacturing sector and 300 million baht in the services sector. Some firms employ as many as 200 workers.

This diversity of business size not only makes them central to economic growth but also complicates policy decision-making. A one-size-fits-all approach is unlikely to work.

3 Challenges

First, the sheer variety of SMEs, from micro firms to mid-sized exporters, creates challenges. Policy aimed at one end of the spectrum may fail at the other.

Second, SMEs differ across industries. A factory linked to global supply chains faces very different pressures from a local retailer. Exporters must meet environmental and quality standards right away or risk exclusion.

By contrast, the local retail market is restricted in its growth because domestic purchasing power is limited. With household spending weak and consumer demand often stagnant, small retailers face constant pressure on sales and margins, leaving little room for real expansion.

Third, support programmes succeed only if entrepreneurs themselves are willing to adapt. Agencies can offer training or loans, but firms must choose to act. Without owner commitment, policy interventions often fade.

These challenges show that SME promotion is not just about helping individual firms. The bigger task is to create a business ecosystem that encourages self-improvement and lowers barriers to growth.

The Right Environment

This is why the concept of an ecosystem is important. A strong ecosystem extends beyond competition; it fosters networks among suppliers, customers, and partners. These ties allow SMEs to gain knowledge, access financial resources, and explore new markets.

Ecosystems can be shaped through various reforms and programmes: cutting red tape, offering incubators, promoting exports, supporting venture capital, and linking firms to technology. Crucially, the design should match each business stage, from startup to big company.

Studies worldwide confirm the hypothesis; in South Korea, in-house R and D drives SME success. In the US and New Zealand, tourism incubators offering cheap finance support and expert advice strengthen the sector. Scotland’s incubators create about 1,800 businesses a year. Spain’s university spin-offs outperform other startups. The lesson is clear: ecosystems produce the business outcomes.

Korean Example

A good example is South Korea, which established the Ministry of SMEs and Startups to help firms transition from local beginnings to global reach. Policies include cutting regulations, opening government procurement, supporting failed entrepreneurs with “second chances”, and expanding financial accessibility through angels, crowdfunding, and SME stock markets.

South Korea also invests heavily in research, protects intellectual property, builds smart factories, and fosters links between small and large firms. Export vouchers, branding support, and trade fairs further help SMEs compete abroad.

Together, these measures show how a country can design an environment where SMEs not only survive but also have the potential to grow stronger.

Another example of ecosystem-building comes from Korea Credit Data (KCD), a fintech unicorn that has transformed how SMEs manage their finances. Its flagship platform, Cash Note, began as a simple bookkeeping app but has since evolved into a super-app used by almost two million businesses nationwide.

Beyond accounting, it now offers financial management tools, marketplace functions, networking opportunities, and even information on government policies. By integrating these services in one place, KCD lowers barriers for SMEs to operate more efficiently and connect to broader markets.

Question for Thailand

Despite Thailand’s existing support for SMEs, piecemeal aid is not sufficient in a fast-moving economy. The task now is to create an ecosystem where firms can acquire resources, technology, and networks for themselves. Without such a system, Thai SMEs risk falling behind in both competitiveness and sustainability.

The South Korean model demonstrates that success stems not from scattered policies but from integrated strategies that align with the business life cycle.

For Thailand, the question is no longer whether SMEs are important, as we already know they are. The real question is: Are we ready to build the environment they need to flourish on their own?

B.Grimm and Siam Piwat Group have forged a multi-dimensional strategic partnership to install solar rooftop panels at Siam Paragon, driving a clean-energy future.

B.Grimm signed a memorandum of understanding with Siam Piwat to expand their strategic partnership across several areas, including a transition to renewable energy with the installation of a solar rooftop at Siam Paragon, the application of digital technology to enhance energy efficiency, collaboration on biodiversity conservation, knowledge exchange to promote holistic wellness, and supporting arts and culture initiatives.

Harald Link, chairman of B.Grimm, said the company remains dedicated to advancing Thailand’s progress in healthcare and infrastructure. As a leader in renewable and clean energy technology as well as efficient energy management, he said B.Grimm is delighted to support Siam Piwat’s properties.

This partnership reflects B.Grimm’s philosophy of “doing business with compassion in harmony with nature” in pursuit of long-term business development goals and creating future innovations to meet the needs of society in the digital age.

This ethos is reflected in the partnership’s wide-ranging scope, which includes creating positive impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem integrity, exchanging knowledge and developing projects integrating Bhutan’s concept of gross national happiness, promoting holistic healthcare and fostering classical music education through the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra, Southeast Asia’s premier orchestra.

This resonates with Siam Piwat’s business vision, which aims to create benefits for the general public and enhance the quality of life for Thais alongside environmental conservation and restoration.

Chadatip Chutrakul, chief executive of Siam Piwat Group, said this partnership with B.Grimm marks another significant collaboration between two leading organisations to establish a new benchmark for sustainable destinations in Thailand by integrating innovation and clean energy management for efficiency optimisation.

Siam Piwat prioritises the transition to renewable energy and has set a goal to achieve net-zero Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The company has already installed solar rooftops to generate electricity for use at some of its malls.

She said the partnership reflects a shared vision between B.Grimm and Siam Piwat as leaders in the energy and global retail sectors with deep commitment to establishing a new sustainability benchmark for Thai businesses in alignment with international standards and cultivating a business ecosystem driven by environmental, social and governance considerations.

Siam Paragon signed a power purchase agreement with B.Grimm Power Smart Solution Co, a subsidiary of B.Grimm Power Plc, to develop a solar rooftop project on its building.

Covering an area of more than 4,600 square metres with a total installed capacity of 793 kilowatt-peak, the project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by some 532 tonnes per year.

The solar rooftop will supply power to Paragon Hall, a world-class convention and exhibition centre, and a section of a new zone within Siam Paragon scheduled to open in late 2025, which is set to become a key landmark and a model sustainability platform in Bangkok.

Building on the success of the solar rooftop installation at Iconsiam, this project will increase the proportion of clean energy usage, in line with Siam Piwat Group’s goal to complete its transition to 100% renewable energy across its malls by 2030.

Siam Piwat’s commitment to sustainability is integrated across its entire portfolio, including Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery, Iconsiam, ICS and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, which are designed not only as global destinations but also as venues that connect people, society and the environment to drive positive change.

The company remains dedicated to creating a positive impact for all stakeholders across its value chain, guided by its core business strategy of creating shared value.

Cambodian civilians must leave Ban Nong Chan in Khok Sung district of Sa Kaeo by Friday’s deadline in accordance with a General Border Committee (GBC) agreement, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said on Tuesday.

He stated that a meeting was held on Monday, and actions are being taken in accordance with existing agreements.

Thailand maintains that Cambodia must adhere to the terms outlined in the GBC, which include four key conditions — withdrawal of weapons, withdrawal of troops, suppression of scammer networks and effective management of the border situation, he said.

“Any area that falls within the territory of the Kingdom of Thailand must be vacated. That is all,” Mr Anutin said.

When asked about human rights concerns and how justice will be ensured for Thai citizens, he responded: “I don’t see any difficulty. Thai people deserve justice. Every Thai citizen is subject to the same law. Those who encroach on Thai territory unlawfully must leave — it’s that simple. If the other side refuses to comply, there’s no room for negotiation.”

Responding to a question on how the government plans to maintain a positive image in the eyes of the international community, Mr Anutin said: “I’ve already delegated full authority.”

“I’ve tasked the military with protecting our sovereignty and territorial integrity. Full support has been provided by the government,” he said.

“Similarly, diplomatic negotiations — including terms and conditions — have been handed over entirely to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” the prime minister said.

“Regarding the protection of rights for local people in Sa Kaeo, the provincial governor has been instructed to proceed based on established agreements. Everyone has been granted full authority to carry out their responsibilities.”

Defence Minister Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit commented on the case where Cambodian nationals have not evacuated from the areas of Ban Nong Chan, Ban Nong Ya Kaeo in Khok Sung district and Ban Ta Phraya in Ta Phraya district in Sa Kaeo.

He said that during a recent meeting of the National Security Council, responsibility was assigned to the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters and the chief of defence forces to manage the situation.

Regarding the Regional Border Committee, he noted that the initial meeting had been postponed without a new confirmed date. Similarly, the session for the Second Army Region has also been delayed, though it is scheduled provisionally for Oct 14, he said.

Former K-1 super welterweight champion joins Takeru, Noiri and Yoza as ONE Championship expands its Japan roster ahead of ONE 173 in Tokyo

Hiromi Wajima has signed an exclusive multi-fight contract with ONE Championship, becoming the latest star from Japan’s kickboxing scene to join the promotion’s growing roster.

The former K-1 super welterweight champion announced the news this week, ending speculation about his next move after his K-1 contract expired in July.

‘I have signed with ONE Championship!’ Wajima said in a social media post on Tuesday. ‘Thank you for your support. I aim to be the best in the world! I can’t wait to fight!’

The 30-year-old last competed in December 2024, and his arrival adds further depth to ONE’s stacked striking divisions as the organisation continues its push into the Japanese market.

Wajima joins an elite list of fellow Japanese kickboxing stars who have crossed over from K-1 in recent years – including Takeru Segawa, Masaaki Noiri, and Yuki Yoza, all from the renowned VASILEUS Gym stable.

Former K-1 and Rizin standout Rukiya Anpo has also signed a multi-fight deal and will make his debut at ONE 173 on November 16 at Tokyo’s Ariake Arena, where he faces Marat Grigorian in a blockbuster lightweight clash.

Another former K-1 star, Kana Morimoto, will face Thai icon Stamp Fairtex in an atomweight kickboxing bout on the card.

The move underlines ONE’s aggressive expansion in Japan, with the upcoming ONE 173 shaping up as one of the biggest martial arts events in the country’s history. The show will feature at least seven title fights, split into two sessions with a two-hour intermission between cards.

Doors will open at midday, with the ten-hour spectacle scheduled to conclude at 10pm, the Bangkok Post was told by CEO and chairman Chatri Sityodtong.

It follows the success of ONE 172 in March at Saitama Super Arena, which drew more than 10,000 fans and generated a US$2 million gate, setting a benchmark for the promotion’s return to Japan.