The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) reported a strong performance in the first half of 2026, with the SET Index up over 25%, ranking it second or third in Asia, trailing only South Korea and nearly on par with Taiwan. President Asadej Kongsiri highlighted improved average daily trading value alongside robust dividend payments by listed companies, attracting investors even as global uncertainty persists due to geopolitical factors.
According to Asadej, a stable Thai baht has contributed to perceptions of the market as a safe investment destination in the region, attracting foreign capital amid Middle East volatility. Though Thailand’s economic growth remains modest, expectations for improved political stability and confidence in government economic policies continue to draw support from both local and international investors.
While foreign investors are interested in whether Thailand’s economy can return to 4 – 7% growth, SET sees 7% as challenging under current circumstances, with 4% growth seen as achievable if economic drivers are maintained.
Additional fund inflows have been observed as capital shifts from neighboring ASEAN markets, and global trends favor emerging market investment. However, Asadej emphasized the need for close monitoring of the global economy, especially as geopolitical tensions ease and oil prices fall—factors that could redirect focus to economic fundamentals.
Looking ahead, key factors for the Thai bourse include export sector performance and the nation’s overall competitiveness. The Thai market’s ESG standards are also noted as competitive on a global scale.
SET is working with the Board of Investment (BOI) on the “BOI IPO” initiative, aiming to allow New Economy companies to raise funds and establish Thailand as a regional investment and fundraising hub.
Planned reforms include updated listing criteria to better fit modern, growth-oriented businesses, revised industry groups, market cap requirements, and profit conditions to prioritize long-term development over early profits. Additionally, ongoing discussions with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) aim to streamline and speed up the listing process, with incentive programs in consideration for BOI-promoted companies.
Target sectors include electric vehicles, data centers, PCB manufacturing, high technology, investments in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), and subsidiaries of foreign conglomerates—especially from China and Taiwan. Asadej expects guideline clarity in 3Q26, but it may take up to two years for New Economy firms to list, as many are still in the early operational phase.
Meanwhile, SET continues global roadshows, recently visiting London and Hong Kong, and has noted rising international investor interest in Thai businesses. The upcoming Thailand Focus 2026 event in August is expected to be a key driver of foreign capital inflows.
