Imagine a world where the slightest flicker in gold demand sends ripples through markets globally, a realm where ancient riches and modern finance collide. That’s the stage set by the World Gold Council’s riveting 2023 report. Last year, the dance of numbers tells a tale of resilience, intrigue, and unexpected shifts in the golden realm. The annual gold demand, minus the whispers and deals of Over The Counter (OTC) trading, subtly dipped to 4,448 tonnes—a modest 5% shy of the previous year’s vigorous performance. Yet, when the cryptic OTC market casts its shadow, total demand soared to an unprecedented peak of 4,899 tonnes, painting 2023 with the highest average gold price ever recorded. It seems that when it comes to gold, there’s always a hidden treasure trove that defies expectations. In a dramatic twist, global central banks unleashed their appetite for gold, purchasing a staggering 1,037 tonnes. This shopping spree,…
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Imagine embarking on a quest to forge a brighter future, not just for ourselves but for the countless denizens of the deep blue. WildAid is championing this noble cause, casting a spotlight on a pressing issue that demands our immediate attention. As the new year unfurls its wings, there’s an impassioned plea to each and every one of us: Let’s make a seismic shift in our dining habits by turning our backs on shark products. In a revealing study conducted by Rapid Asia, involving 1,007 urbanites from the heart of Thailand, an eye-opening picture was painted. The tradition of consuming shark fin—a symbol of luxury and prestige—is deeply ingrained in various social ceremonies. With a staggering 60% indulgence at family reunions and 57% at weddings, this custom pervades the Thai culinary scene. Furthermore, the auspicious Lunar New Year gatherings account for 42% of this consumption. Here lies a golden opportunity:…
In the latest turn of events that seems straight out of a modern-day odyssey, Srettha, who effortlessly juggles the roles of a premier and finance minister, has taken the nation by storm with his recent announcement. Setting the stage for an unprecedented transformation, he declared a nationwide airport upgrade plan set to be unveiled next month, promising to elevate the travel experience to stratospheric heights. But here’s where it gets interesting – Srettha, with a flair for the dramatic, made an unannounced visit to the airport. This wasn’t a mere ceremonial walkthrough; oh no, he was on a mission. Srettha wanted to dive deep into the intricate ballet of airport and immigration processes, witness it firsthand, beyond the dry ink of reports. As he navigated through the choreographed chaos, he saw not problems but gleaming opportunities ripe for the picking, especially in the realm of system integration. Picture this: a…
On a vibrant Monday morning that felt as electric as the Bangkok air itself, a symphony of pro-amnesty activists descended upon the parliament, their presence marked by a collective fervor and a shared vision for change. This wasn’t just a gathering; it was the pulsating heart of democracy in action, a scene captured in the picturesque frame of Apichart Jinakul’s photograph that now echoes the spirit of that day across the digital expanse. Amidst this colorful tapestry of activists and onlookers, Move Forward Party (MFP) MP Karunpol Thiansuwan stood firm, his voice slicing through the humid air with the precision of a seasoned orator. Karunpol wasn’t merely speaking; he was igniting a conversation that stretched beyond the verdant lawns of parliament. “It’s time,” he declared, “to address the elephant in the room: lese majeste offences.” With a gentle but unwavering resolve, Karunpol outlined the Move Forward Party’s stance, advocating for…
Imagine a sea of eager faces, a crowd buzzing with anticipation, all clustered in the vibrant heart of the Pheu Thai Party’s headquarters. The atmosphere is electric, charged with hope and excitement. This isn’t just any gathering; it’s a pivotal moment for supporters of a revolutionary idea that’s set to change the way Thailand deals with economic challenges: the digital wallet handout program. Snapshots capture the scene, encapsulating a historical moment back in October of last year, a testament to a nationwide push towards economic innovation. At the helm of this transformative venture stands a coalition poised to rejuvenate Thailand’s economic landscape. A rendezvous is on the horizon, a meeting that carries the weight of millions of aspirations. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is set to convene with Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, a dialogue anticipated to set the digital wallet policy committee back into high gear. The buzz around this…
On a crisp February morning, the air outside the parliament was charged with anticipation and hope as a vibrant crowd of pro-amnesty activists made their presence felt. It was a moment that captured the fervent belief in the power of change, and at the heart of it all was a clear, unwavering voice advocating for justice and reform. This voice belonged to Karunpol Thiansuwan, an MP from the Move Forward Party (MFP), who stood resolute on a platform that was both challenging and controversial: the inclusion of lese majeste offences in any forthcoming amnesty bill. As sunlight glinted off the polished surfaces of the national parliament building on February 1st, it became evident that the issue at hand was more than just political maneuvering; it was a test of the nation’s commitment to resolution and reconciliation. Karunpol didn’t mince words, stating unequivocally that discussions among political entities were crucial, yet…
In a riveting turn of events that has both local and international eyes glued to the Land of Smiles, a group of Thailand’s most vibrant political figures found themselves in the limelight for reasons beyond their usual political rallying. Among them, Pita Limjaroenrat, the beacon of hope for the PM role, who previously navigated Move Forward (the phoenix risen from Future Forward’s ashes) to a landmark victory. The ensemble cast of defendants also featured the charismatic Future Forward leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the intellectual powerhouse Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, social media maven Pannika Wanich, the strategic Phairatthachot Chantharakhajorn, alongside icons of activism such as Nuttaa Mahattana, Parit Chiwarak, and the youthful dynamo Tanawat Wongchai. In a scene that felt more cinematic than legal, the Pathumwan Municipal Court delivered a verdict that had everyone on the edge of their seats. Despite the gravity of the charges, the court opted for a suspenseful twist –…
Picture this: under the clear blue sky of Bangkok, in front of City Hall, the air is alive with the rhythm of traditional dance – a vibrant celebration of the Songkran festival’s recognition by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. This spectacle, captured last December, was just the beginning of a nationwide fiesta that’s about to unfold. In a resplendent show of cultural pride, the Thai government, buoyed by UNESCO’s endorsement, is pulling out all the stops to orchestrate the World Songkran Festival, spinning the festivities out from April 1 to April 21. Chai Wacharonke, a figurehead for government communication, shared this exciting announcement, igniting anticipation across the country. The recognition by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation isn’t merely a nod to tradition; it’s an invitation to the world to partake in Thailand’s most exuberant festival. Imagine the spectacle: across the 76 provinces and the…
Imagine this – you’re standing at Suvarnabhumi airport, weary from your travels, eagerly anticipating the moment you can claim your baggage and step into the vibrant city of Bangkok. Suddenly, you’re greeted with two words that have the power to deflate your enthusiasm like a punctured balloon – “bag delay”. This was the scenario facing passengers of Thai Airways International flight TG635 from Taiwan, a situation all too familiar yet equally frustrating every time it happens. In a turn of events that could have sparked a plot in a drama series, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin orchestrated a surprise inspection at Suvarnabhumi airport. With a demeanour that meant business, he swooped into the airport with the precision of a hawk, flanked by Immigration Division 2’s commander, Pol Maj Gen Choengron Rimpadi. Together, they cut through the airport, making a beeline for the heart of the issue. In an age where patience…
In the vibrant heart of Southeast Asia, nestled among teeming markets and bustling streets, a fashion uproar of an unusual kind has emerged, pitting the charm of traditional Thai craftsmanship against the sprawling tentacles of global imitation. At the center of this sartorial drama are none other than the iconic cat and elephant patterned trousers, emblems of Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry and now, soldiers on the frontlines of the country’s latest “Thai soft power” initiative. Spearheaded by the indomitable Phumtham, the deputy PM with a keen eye for cultural preservation, Thailand is wading into the murky waters of international copyright battles to safeguard these unique creations from inferior imitations. The roots of this stylish saga trace back to the serene landscapes of Chiang Mai and the bustling street markets of Bangkok, where elephant trousers – also affectionately known as Thai fisherman or Aladdin pants – have long captured the imaginations…