Business
Thailand’s THAI Union Battles to Keep Government Out of Airline Rehabilitation Plan
In a significant development for Thai Airways International (THAI), the airline’s labor union is pushing back against government intervention in its rehabilitation strategy. As THAI aims to emerge from bankruptcy, tensions are rising over a proposal to bring in government officials, which the union argues could jeopardize the airline’s recovery efforts and autonomy. Here’s a closer look at the evolving situation and what it means for the future of Thailand’s national carrier.
Thailand’s THAI Union Battles to Keep Government Out of Airline Rehabilitation Plan
THAI Union’s Protest Against Government Involvement
On November 8, THAI employees gathered in protest outside the airline’s Bangkok headquarters, voicing opposition to proposed amendments to THAI’s rehabilitation plan. Displaying placards, the union urged creditors to reject changes that they believe could compromise the airline’s independence.
Concerns Over Government Intervention in THAI’s Future
The Thai Finance Ministry has suggested appointing two officials, Polchak Nimwatana and Panya Chupanich, to THAI’s rehabilitation team. The union fears that this move may lead to political influence in crucial decisions, especially regarding aircraft purchases, and ultimately damage THAI’s competitive edge on the global stage.
Union’s Stand on the Government’s Influence
In a powerful statement, the union argued that “political interference and corruption” have been detrimental to the airline’s performance. They emphasized that employees, having dedicated years to the airline, are best suited to oversee its successful recovery without external interference.
The Proposed Changes and Their Implications
The Thai government’s plan to appoint two ministry officials to the rehabilitation team has sparked controversy, not only among union members but also some creditors.
The Role of New Government Appointees in THAI’s Recovery
Under the government’s proposal, new appointees would have a say in THAI’s rehabilitation strategy, potentially involving debt-to-equity conversions, adjustments to capital structure, and even policy decisions on asset acquisitions. This has raised concerns among analysts, who worry that government influence might prioritize state interests over the airline’s operational health and market competitiveness.
A History of Challenges for Thai Airways
THAI filed for bankruptcy in 2019, with approximately 245 billion baht in debt. In 2020, the Thai Cabinet approved a plan under the Bankruptcy Act to help THAI rehabilitate and rebuild its operations. Since then, THAI has implemented various restructuring initiatives, targeting profitability and shareholder returns.
Financial Strategies in THAI’s Rehabilitation Plan
As THAI approaches its mid-2025 recovery target, the restructuring plan includes several key components, including debt repayment options and capital restructuring. This also includes a debt-to-equity conversion for certain creditors, allowing them to become shareholders in THAI.
Debt-to-Equity Conversions and Capital Restructuring
The rehabilitation plan calls for mandatory and voluntary debt-to-equity conversions, with certain creditors offered a conversion rate of 2.54 baht per share. This conversion, slated for the end of 2023, aims to ease the airline’s debt burden, with capital restructuring measures including issuing 9.8 billion new shares.
Banks and Creditors’ Perspective on THAI’s Recovery
Thailand’s leading banks, Bangkok Bank (BBL) and Krungthai Bank (KTB), are among THAI’s creditors and have seen both risks and opportunities in the rehabilitation plan.
Debt Repayment Options for Major Banks
Creditors like BBL and KTB are being given options, such as debt-to-equity conversions and extensions for repayment. Both banks expect a positive outcome if the airline exits rehabilitation, forecasting improvements in their Non-Performing Loan (NPL) ratios.
What Lies Ahead for Thai Airways?
While the union’s protest against government intervention draws attention, THAI’s path to recovery involves numerous stakeholders. Should the Finance Ministry’s proposal be accepted, the airline may see more direct government involvement in the coming years, shaping both financial decisions and the airline’s strategic vision.
THAI’s 2025 Exit Target
Thai Airways aims to exit the rehabilitation process by mid-2025, marking a major milestone in its journey toward financial stability. With an eye on increasing shareholder equity, the airline hopes to restore its position on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) and resume trading by June 2025.
Conclusion
The battle over Thai Airways’ future reflects broader concerns about political influence in corporate recovery efforts. While the Thai government aims to safeguard the airline’s financial future, THAI’s labor union and analysts argue that independence is key to ensuring a sustainable recovery. As THAI moves closer to a mid-2025 rehabilitation exit, the airline’s fate rests on achieving a delicate balance between government support and operational autonomy.
Ref-Thaiger
Business
Google AdX Business: Maximizing Revenue with Programmatic Advertising
Google Ad Exchange (AdX) is a leading platform that empowers publishers and advertisers to connect through programmatic advertising. By offering advanced tools and extensive reach, Google AdX helps businesses maximize ad revenue while providing advertisers with premium inventory access.
What is Google AdX?
Google AdX, short for Google Ad Exchange, is a programmatic advertising platform where publishers can sell their ad inventory to advertisers in real time. Unlike Google AdSense, which caters to smaller publishers, AdX focuses on premium inventory and larger-scale publishers.
Key Features of Google AdX
- Programmatic Advertising: Automated buying and selling of ad space.
- Premium Inventory: High-quality ad placements for advertisers.
- Real-Time Bidding (RTB): Competitive bidding for ad slots in real time.
- Advanced Targeting: Tools to reach the right audience effectively.
Benefits of Using Google AdX for Businesses
1. Higher Revenue Potential
Google AdX enables publishers to maximize their revenue through:
- Real-time competition among advertisers.
- Premium rates for high-quality inventory.
2. Access to Premium Advertisers
AdX connects publishers with top-tier advertisers, ensuring high-quality ads that resonate with the audience.
3. Enhanced Ad Management
With tools like Ad Manager, publishers can:
- Monitor ad performance.
- Optimize inventory allocation.
- Set rules for ad delivery and pricing.
4. Advanced Analytics
Google AdX offers detailed insights into:
- Audience behavior.
- Ad performance metrics.
- Revenue trends.
5. Better User Experience
AdX supports high-quality, non-intrusive ads that improve user engagement and minimize ad fatigue.
How to Get Started with Google AdX
1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for Google AdX, publishers typically need:
- A high volume of traffic.
- Premium-quality content.
- Adherence to Google’s policies.
2. Partner with a Google Certified Partner
Most publishers access Google AdX through a Google Certified Partner. These partners help:
- Set up your account.
- Manage ad placements.
- Optimize revenue strategies.
3. Integrate Google Ad Manager
Google Ad Manager acts as the gateway to AdX, providing tools for:
- Inventory management.
- Ad campaign tracking.
- Optimizing yield through multiple ad networks.
Google AdX vs. Google AdSense
1. Target Audience
- AdSense: Best for small to medium-sized publishers.
- AdX: Designed for large-scale publishers with premium inventory.
2. Revenue Model
- AdSense: Fixed CPC and CPM rates.
- AdX: Real-time bidding for higher revenue opportunities.
3. Inventory Control
- AdSense: Limited control over ad placements.
- AdX: Full control with advanced targeting and pricing options.
SEO Best Practices for Maximizing AdX Revenue
1. Optimize Website Speed
A fast-loading website ensures better user engagement and ad visibility. Use tools like:
- Google PageSpeed Insights.
- GTmetrix.
2. Focus on High-Quality Content
Engage users with valuable, original content that attracts organic traffic and premium advertisers.
3. Improve Mobile Friendliness
Ensure your site is mobile-optimized, as most traffic now comes from mobile devices.
4. Use Effective Ad Placement
Strategic ad placements increase visibility and CTR without compromising user experience.
5. Regularly Monitor Analytics
Track your AdX performance with Google Analytics and Ad Manager to identify areas for improvement.
Challenges of Google AdX
1. Strict Eligibility Criteria
Small publishers may find it challenging to meet Google AdX’s requirements.
2. Complex Management
Managing AdX requires advanced tools and expertise, making it essential to partner with professionals.
3. Competition
Real-time bidding means advertisers bid for the same inventory, which can sometimes lead to inconsistent earnings.
Conclusion
Google AdX is a powerful tool for publishers aiming to maximize ad revenue through programmatic advertising. By offering access to premium inventory, advanced analytics, and real-time bidding, AdX ensures businesses achieve higher engagement and profitability. However, leveraging AdX effectively requires strategic planning, adherence to policies, and a focus on delivering high-quality content.
For publishers ready to scale their digital advertising efforts, Google AdX represents a gateway to greater revenue and enhanced audience engagement.If you want to research more , go to Adx Blog .
Business
10 In-Demand Careers for 2025: Future Proof Your Career
Exploring the Future Job Market: Top Careers to Consider
As we approach 2025, the job market is undergoing significant changes driven by technological advancements, demographic shifts, and evolving consumer needs. According to the World Economic Forum, while approximately 85 million jobs may be replaced by machines, an estimated 97 million new roles are set to emerge. This article highlights ten in-demand careers that are expected to thrive in the coming years.
Key Factors Driving Job Growth
The demand for skilled professionals is being fueled by several key trends, including the rise of digital technology, the need for data analysis, and a growing focus on sustainability. Understanding these trends can help job seekers target their career paths effectively.
Top 10 In-Demand Careers for 2025
1. Software Developer
Software developers are crucial in creating applications and systems that drive businesses forward. Their expertise in programming languages and software design makes them indispensable in today’s digital landscape.Salary Range: 25,000-140,000 baht/month
2. AI & Machine Learning Engineer
With artificial intelligence becoming integral to various industries, AI and machine learning engineers are in high demand. They specialize in developing algorithms and models that enable machines to learn from data.Salary Range: 60,000-80,000 baht/month
3. Data Analyst
Data analysts play a vital role in interpreting complex data sets to inform business decisions. Their ability to derive insights from data helps organizations optimize their strategies and improve performance.Salary Range: 40,000-80,000 baht/month
4. Data Scientist
Data scientists focus on advanced analytics and predictive modeling to provide actionable insights for businesses. They combine statistical knowledge with programming skills to enhance decision-making processes.Salary Range: 35,000-80,000 baht/month
5. Digital Marketing Specialist
Digital marketing specialists leverage online platforms to create effective marketing strategies. Their skills in content creation and data analysis help businesses engage with their target audiences effectively.Salary Range: 30,000-80,000 baht/month
6. Cybersecurity Professional
As cyber threats increase, cybersecurity professionals are essential for protecting organizational data and systems. They implement security measures and respond to incidents to safeguard against breaches.Salary Range: 60,000-100,000 baht/month
7. Cloud Engineer
Cloud engineers design and manage cloud-based infrastructure and services. With the growing adoption of cloud computing, their expertise is crucial for organizations transitioning to cloud environments.Salary Range: 50,000-90,000 baht/month
8. Nurse Practitioner
The healthcare sector is experiencing a surge in demand for nurse practitioners who provide primary care services. Their role is vital in addressing the needs of an aging population and increasing healthcare accessibility.Salary Range: 120,000 baht/month
9. Renewable Energy Technician
As the world shifts towards sustainable energy sources, renewable energy technicians are becoming increasingly important. They install and maintain systems such as solar panels and wind turbines.Salary Range: $46,000/year (approx. 40,000 baht/month)
10. Content Creator
Content creators produce engaging material across various platforms to connect with audiences. Their creativity in writing, video production, and social media management drives engagement and brand awareness.Salary Range: 25,000-50,000 baht/month
Preparing for Future Careers
The job market of 2025 promises exciting opportunities across various sectors driven by technology and sustainability initiatives. By focusing on developing relevant skills for these in-demand careers—such as software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity—individuals can position themselves for success in a rapidly evolving landscape. Embracing continuous learning will be essential for thriving in this dynamic environment.
Business
Thailand Commits to Becoming an AI Learning Hub
Ministers Announce Plans for AI Governance Collaboration
Thailand is dedicated to advancing global trust in artificial intelligence (AI) governance and establishing itself as a learning hub for AI through collaboration with UNESCO, according to Prasert Jantararuangthong, the Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DES). This initiative aims to enhance the ethical application of AI technologies while fostering skilled professionals in the field.
Goals for AI Workforce Development
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) has set ambitious goals to increase the number of AI-skilled workers by adding 30,000 engineers over the next three years. This plan includes generating 100 AI innovations valued at 40 billion baht and promoting AI adoption across 600 agencies nationwide.
Significant Increase in AI Adoption Rates
According to the AI Readiness Measurement 2024 report by the Electronic Transactions Development Agency and the National Science and Technology Development Agency, AI adoption plans among Thai organizations have reached 73.3%, reflecting an increase of nearly 20 percentage points year-on-year. This surge indicates a growing recognition of the importance of AI in various sectors.
Hosting the UNESCO Global Forum on AI Ethics
On Wednesday, the DES Ministry, MHESI, the Education Ministry, and UNESCO announced their partnership to host the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI 2025, themed “Ethical Governance of AI in Motion.” This event is scheduled to take place from June 24 to 27, 2025, in Bangkok and will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration on AI governance.
Commitment to Ethical AI Implementation
Prasert emphasized that Thailand’s commitment aligns with UNESCO’s AI Readiness Assessment framework, which is recognized globally. The country has recently introduced key frameworks such as the AI Governance Guideline for Executives and the Generative AI Governance Guideline for Organizations. These resources aim to ensure responsible and transparent implementation of AI at all organizational levels.
Multilateral Collaboration for Developing Countries
The upcoming forum is expected to foster multilateral collaboration and build AI governance capacity in developing countries. It highlights Thailand’s dedication to global trust in AI governance while positioning itself as a leader in ethical AI practices.
Integration of AI Technologies Across Industries
Suphachai Jaismut, vice-minister for MHESI, stated that Thailand is prepared to integrate AI technologies across various industries, driven by a commitment to advancing research and development (R&D). This integration is crucial as Southeast Asia’s digital economy continues to grow rapidly.
Addressing Challenges in the Digital Economy
While advancements in AI infrastructure are promising, challenges such as the digital divide and job displacement due to automation remain significant concerns. Xing Qu, deputy director-general for UNESCO, emphasized that building peace through education, science, and culture is vital in an era where AI increasingly influences societies and economies.
-
Business2 months ago
Thailand to Finalise Free Trade Agreement with EFTA by January 2024
-
News2 months ago
Thailand and Vietnam Rising to New Heights of Enduring Friendship
-
Business2 months ago
Thai Airways Secures 44 Billion Baht to Propel Post-Rehabilitation Future
-
Visa & Immigration4 months ago
How to Register a Business in Thailand for Foreigners in 2024
-
Business2 months ago
Thailand Commits to Becoming an AI Learning Hub
-
News2 months ago
M81 Motorway Opens Free for New Year Travel in Thailand
-
Business11 months ago
Economic advisory board confirms sluggish growth in 2023 and slowing economy coming into 2024. Since 2019, Thailand’s economy
-
News2 months ago
ASEAN Ministers to Discuss Myanmar Crisis at Meeting in Thailand