Myanmar's economic crisis fuels underground currency trading

13 Sept 16:50 Key points summarised by AI

Myanmar's post-coup economic crisis has crippled its official financial system, causing the kyat to plummet and licensed money exchanges to shut down.
Citizens are increasingly bypassing official channels by using unregulated online groups, primarily on Facebook, to trade currencies through trust-based physical exchanges.
This burgeoning underground market also facilitates the smuggling of U.S. dollars and enables overseas workers to send remittances to family members.
Participants in these informal currency deals face significant risks, including robbery and lack of regulation, as they navigate the country's desperate financial landscape.

Sihasak urges Thais in Europe to stay alert as protests spread

Yesterday 12:06 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow advises Thai nationals in Europe to avoid protest areas and reconsider non-essential travel, citing widespread unrest in countries like France, Italy, and Spain.
The warning comes as demonstrations escalate, with some turning violent, prompting concerns for safety and leading to an emergency Cabinet meeting in Italy and a proposed postponement of diplomatic talks.
Thai embassies and the Department of Consular Affairs issue advisories, urging citizens to monitor local developments, follow official announcements, and register their travel details for assistance, while emphasizing that no Thais have been directly affected yet.