The Thai stock market closed on April 18, 2025, at 1,150.95 points, marking an increase of 9.67 points or 0.85%. This uptick came alongside a trading volume of approximately 27,692.89 million baht. Analysts attributed the market's rebound to renewed optimism surrounding upcoming trade negotiations between Thailand and the United States, scheduled for April 23, 2025. The recent discussions initiated between the U.S. and Japan have helped to alleviate some concerns regarding trade wars, thus boosting market sentiment.
During trading today, the index fluctuated, reaching a high of 1,153.20 points and dipping to a low of 1,141.32 points. Overall, 365 stocks saw gains, while 138 experienced declines, and 164 stocks remained unchanged. Notably, major stocks such as DELTA and PTT were highlighted as key players supporting the market's growth.
Mr. Chaiyot Noiampisit, Head of Research at BLS Securities, commented on the day's trading, saying, "The Thai stock market adjusted upwards in the afternoon in response to expectations surrounding the upcoming trade negotiations with the U.S. This has eased concerns surrounding trade wars temporarily and has positively influenced market sentiment. We recommend focusing on major stocks, particularly those that have seen significant price drops, as they are likely to recover significantly."
Looking ahead, analysts predict that the market will continue to fluctuate within a sideways pattern, with resistance levels set between 1,160 and 1,170 points, and support levels ranging from 1,130 to 1,140 points. The anticipated trade discussions with the U.S. are expected to have a significant impact on the Thai stock market, and investors are advised to keep a close watch on developments.
In terms of trading values today, the stocks with the highest trading volumes included KBANK, which had a trading value of 1,870.82 million baht and closed at 148.50 baht, down by 2.50 baht. BBL followed with a trading value of 1,517.14 million baht, closing at 144.00 baht, also down by 2.50 baht. On the other hand, DELTA saw an uptick in its trading value, reaching 1,176.96 million baht and closing at 69.00 baht, up by 3.00 baht. PTT also experienced a slight increase, with a trading value of 1,128.52 million baht and closing at 31.00 baht, up by 0.25 baht. Lastly, AOT closed at 38.00 baht, up by 0.25 baht, with a trading value of 1,082.20 million baht.
Overall, the Thai stock market’s performance today reflects a combination of external influences, such as trade negotiations, and internal market dynamics. As investors look ahead, the focus will remain on how these negotiations unfold and their potential implications for the Thai economy.
In a related development, brokers are actively selecting stocks that are expected to benefit from the anticipated launch of Virtual Banks in Thailand. This initiative follows the Bank of Thailand's (BOT) announcement that it has shortlisted three groups for Virtual Bank licenses, which will be proposed to the Ministry of Finance before the services are expected to commence in 2026.
Among the groups selected are ADVANC, TRUE, OR, and CPALL, which are seen as likely beneficiaries of this new financial landscape. Analysts from Krungsri Securities have pointed out that stocks in the Digital Tech Consult sector, such as BE8 and BBKI, are poised for significant growth. They noted, "The Digital Tech Consult stocks, particularly BE8 and BBIK, are expected to have a positive impact, aligning with the BOT's regulations for Virtual Banks."
Furthermore, the groups receiving positive evaluations include those with robust customer bases, such as ADVANC, which is projected to have 45 million mobile customers by the end of 2024, and TRUE, which is expected to reach 49 million. OR is anticipated to have over 6 million members, while CPALL boasts over 18 million members across its various platforms.
Despite the optimism surrounding Virtual Banks, analysts maintain a neutral stance on traditional banks, suggesting that the emergence of Virtual Banks may not significantly impact the existing banking landscape. They argue that many commercial banks have already advanced in digital finance, and the customer base for Virtual Banks primarily consists of individuals who currently lack access to traditional banking services.
Additionally, VGI, which did not receive a selection for the Virtual Bank initiative, may experience negative sentiment due to its plans for a private placement of 13 billion baht aimed at investing in Virtual Banking operations.
As the market continues to evolve, investors are encouraged to monitor the developments closely, particularly regarding the upcoming trade negotiations and the implications of the Virtual Bank initiative. With significant opportunities arising in both sectors, the Thai stock market appears poised for further growth and transformation.
