Virtual banks to shake up Thai finance next yearListen to this articleVirtual banks' interest rates and fees are likely to be lower than those of traditional banks due to risk-based pricing and the lower operating costs for fully digital services. By mid-2026, Thais are expected to be able to access virtual banks, offering expanded options for people underserved by formal financial services. In June this year, the central bank announced the three successful applicants to establish the country's first batch of virtual banks. Tanyapong Thamavaranukupt, co-president of Ascend Money, said the three virtual banks are expected to reach 7-19 million individuals, significantly higher than the 2-3 million currently served by traditional banks. "Our virtual bank will similarly leverage technology to keep operating costs far below those of traditional banks."

Source: Bangkok Post December 24, 2025 00:17 UTC