AWOL

CHIANG MAI – The northern city has escaped flooding as the water level of the Ping River continues to drop, but officials on Friday warned of another possible downpour in the coming days.

Chinese police are investigating at least five cases of missing teenagers believed to have been caught up in scam centres, including some who have lost contact with their families after travelling to Myanmar.

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra suggested the country create a golden visa scheme for wealthy foreigners to become long-term residents and called on Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT) to hike passenger service fees to boost the sluggish economy.

Electricity bills during the last four months of this year will not be further reduced as the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has decided to maintain the current power tariff despite positive factors that could lead to a lower rate.

The Thai Retailers Association has recommended two strategies to accelerate economic recovery amid the prolonged global economic slowdown and rising uncertainties.

GDP growth this year could be as low as 1.2% or even less if the government fails to clinch a deal with the US that ensures the reciprocal tariff is competitive with those granted to neighbouring countries, said Kasikorn Research Centre (K-Research).

DBS Vickers Securities recommends investors increase their exposure to gold and reduce their allocation of government bonds from developed economies, predicting the bullion price will hit US$3,765 an ounce by the fourth quarter of this year.