Bangkok: Mai is optimistic about the second half of the year, emphasizing the potential for growth in small-cap stocks and projecting the launch of 10 new IPOs. The mai FORUM 2026, held at the Centara Grand at CentralWorld Hotel, provided a bustling environment for investors to connect with listed companies. Looking forward, the Thai capital market is set to benefit from capital inflows, reduced energy prices, and economic stimulus measures.
According to Thai News Agency, the event, themed 'Discovering The Golden Opportunities,' was officially inaugurated by prominent figures including Mr. Assadej Kongsiri, Director and President of the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), and Prof. Dr. Pornanong Busaratrakul, Secretary-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Over 100 senior executives from listed companies participated, offering insights into business prospects and growth opportunities. The forum was well-attended by entrepreneurs, investors, and industry stakeholders, and featured seminars by investment experts.
Mr. Wirat Sukchai, President of the Association of Listed Companies on the MAI (maiA), discussed the investment landscape amidst economic challenges. He noted that MAI listed companies have embraced technology and innovation, with over 70% reporting profits last year. Despite a significant downturn in the previous years, the current environment presents an opportunity for investment, particularly in mid- and small-cap stocks, which are seen as having higher growth potential. The mai market, home to 229 listed companies, has seen more than 60 companies transition to the SET.
The global drop in oil prices is anticipated to positively impact the operating costs of companies on the mai market, enhancing profitability. Mr. Prapan Chareonprawat, Manager of the Market for Alternative Investment (mai), shared that the stock market index rose by 26% in the first half of the year, reflecting strong investment inflows and a favorable economic outlook for the remainder of the year. While capital flows have focused on large-cap stocks, opportunities remain in the mai market for stocks with strong dividend yields and growth potential.
The second half of the year is expected to see around 10 new IPOs, with significant interest from companies preparing for market entry. The Thai capital market is also evolving to support New Economy businesses through the establishment of a PE Trust fund, targeting 1 billion baht to aid pre-IPO companies in the New Economy sector. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the capital ecosystem and prepare companies for future market listings.
The fund aims to commence investment early next year, focusing on companies in the New Economy sector with potential for stock market entry, thereby supporting the overall growth and dynamism of Thailand's capital market.