30.04.202603:36:01UTC+00Thailand Market Slips as Central Bank Flags Growth, Inflation Risks

Thailand’s SET50 Index slipped about 0.5% in early Thursday trading, hovering near 966 after gains in the previous session. Sentiment weakened after the central bank left its policy rate unchanged at 1% on Wednesday, while warning that spillovers from the Middle East conflict could slow domestic growth this year to 1.5%. Policymakers also signaled that inflation is likely to rise even as credit conditions remain subdued.

In the U.S., the Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged for a third consecutive meeting, though four officials dissented. At home, Thai equities are on track for a second straight monthly decline, down about 0.2% so far, following a sharp drop in March.

Sector performance was mixed: energy minerals, consumer services, and retail trade lent support, while producer manufacturing and consumer durables dragged on the index. Notable laggards included TISCO Financial Group (-3.0%), Airports of Thailand (-2.9%), and Kiatnakin Phatra Bank (-1.25%). Markets will be closed on Friday in observance of National Labor Day.