Ekniti Highlights Capital Market Development as Key to Thai Economic Growth


Bangkok: Ekniti Nitithanpraphas, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, underscored the significance of capital market development for Thailand’s economic expansion during his keynote speech at the IAA Awards and SET-IAA Seminar 2025. He emphasized the importance of good governance and transparent data, advocating for collaborative efforts to foster capital market growth, which he believes will lead to national economic prosperity. Ekniti also presented awards to outstanding executives from 16 industry groups, honoring a total of 142 award winners.



According to Thai News Agency, Ekniti stressed that the growth of the capital market is intrinsically linked to the growth of the Thai economy. He underscored the capital market’s role as a vital mechanism for raising capital and improving the efficiency and governance of listed companies. This, he noted, would lead to transparent and sustainable investments in both the private sector and the country’s infrastructure.



Ekniti further elaborated on the responsibilities of CEOs in identifying megatrends and steering their organizations towards long-term growth. He pointed out that CFOs play a crucial role in balancing risk and financial stability to align with their strategic vision, while Investor Relations (IR) professionals are responsible for consistently communicating comprehensive information to build market and stakeholder confidence.



In discussing strategies to drive the national economy, Ekniti revealed the government’s policy of “short-term stimulus, long-term results, and diversification.” This approach is coupled with maintaining fiscal discipline and accelerating the unlocking of promoted investments. The government is leveraging the capital market to mobilize funds for infrastructure and clean energy projects, utilizing tools with strong governance to ensure transparent investment flows without increasing public debt.



The “IAA Awards for Listed Companies 2025” ceremony recognized the exceptional performance of senior executives and personnel from companies listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Based on votes from investment analysts and expert panels, the awards considered factors such as performance, consistent information disclosure, communication channels, and good governance standards.



Prior to the awards ceremony, Sombat Narawuttichai, Secretary-General of the Investment Analysts Association (IAA), provided an overview of the project’s origins and objectives. Paiboon Narintrangkun, President of the IAA, delivered an opening speech and congratulated the winners. The awards were presented to outstanding CEOs, CFOs, and IRs across 16 industry groups, with a total of 142 awards given.