Thai banks struggling to make moneyMr Piti said the Thai banking industry is in transition and no longer counts on strong interest income or generating the high levels of return on equity as seen in the past. Slower economic growth, persistent structural challenges and rising household debts have also heightened credit risk among borrowers while increasing banks' risk-management costs. Such a shift could help strengthen household wealth, reduce debt burdens and support long-term economic growth, similar to models seen in developed economies, he said. Financial advisory services can improve people's financial well-being even during periods of prolonged slow economic growth. At the same time, a standardised banking fee framework would help support Thailand's transition towards a cashless society, while also helping to curb illicit cash transactions and grey-market money.

Source: Bangkok Post March 16, 2026 23:22 UTC