Thai Central bank raises policy rate to 2 percent with immediate effect

12 Sept 20:11 Key points summarised by AI

The Bank of Thailand's monetary policy committee unanimously voted to increase the policy rate by 0.25 percentage point to 2%, effective immediately, to continue gradual policy normalisation.
Economic growth is projected at 3.6% for this year and 3.8% for 2024, primarily driven by a robust tourism recovery, which boosts employment and private consumption.
Inflation is expected to gradually decline to target ranges of 2.5% (2023) and 2.4% (2024), attributed to easing electricity charges and oil prices.
The overall financial system remains resilient, with strong financial institutions and improved debt serviceability, even as the baht depreciates due to external monetary policies and domestic political uncertainty.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.