Back-to-school spending headache: the cost of parenting

15 Sept 08:28 Key points summarised by AI

Parents face significant financial strain during back-to-school season, with total spending estimated at Bt54.972 billion in 2019, a 5.2% increase despite economic challenges.
Over 40% of parents lack sufficient savings for their children's education, compelling many to resort to borrowing from diverse sources, including informal lenders and pledging valuables.
While low-income families reduce spending and reuse items, middle-class parents prioritize extra-curricular activities and private education, further escalating their financial commitments.

Flooding persists in Bangkok and 22 provinces

Today 16:00 Key points summarised by AI

Persistent flooding continues across Bangkok and 22 Thai provinces, though water levels are gradually receding in many affected areas.
Over 604,000 families, impacting approximately 1.83 million people, are still grappling with the widespread flood conditions.
The national flood death toll has reached 80 since mid-September, with fatalities reported across various provinces.
Major regions like Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, and Bangkok report significant numbers of affected households, with hundreds of thousands still in trouble.