Overview: Thai Stock Market

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) serves as a crucial gateway for investors looking to access one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic economies. With a diverse range of listed companies across industries such as banking, energy, tourism, and agriculture, the Thai stock market provides ample opportunities for both local and international investors.

The SET Index, which tracks all companies listed on the main board of the exchange, is a key benchmark for Thailand’s economic performance. Major players like PTT, Bangkok Bank, and Thai Airways highlight the country’s strengths in energy, finance, and tourism.

Thailand’s strategic location in the ASEAN region and its strong export-oriented economy make its stock market highly attractive. Coupled with government initiatives like Thailand 4.0, which focuses on innovation and digital transformation, the SET has solidified its position as a hub for investment in the region.

This article details the official holiday schedule for 2025, trading hours, unique features, and strategies for navigating Thailand’s stock market effectively.

Learn more: How Many Official Public Holidays Are There in Thailand in 2025?

Official Holidays for the Thai Stock Market in 2025

Holidays for Stock Exchange of Thailand in 2025
Holidays for Stock Exchange of Thailand in 2025

The Stock Exchange of Thailand observes national holidays, reflecting the country’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Below is a detailed account of the holidays and their impact on market activities:

1. New Year’s Day - January 1, 2025

  • Date: January 1 (Wednesday)

  • Significance:

    New Year’s Day is celebrated as the start of the Gregorian calendar year. In Thailand, it is marked by family gatherings, fireworks, and temple visits for blessings.

  • Market Closure:

    The SET is closed for the day, aligning with global financial markets. Investors use this time to assess past performance and set goals for the new year.

2. Makha Bucha Day - February 11, 2025

  • Date: February 11 (Tuesday)

  • Significance:

    This important Buddhist holiday commemorates the spontaneous gathering of 1,250 disciples to hear the Buddha preach. It is observed with temple visits, meditation, and merit-making.

  • Market Closure:

    Trading is suspended for the day, allowing participants to observe this spiritual occasion.

3. Chakri Memorial Day - April 6, 2025

  • Date: April 6 (Sunday, observed April 7, Monday)

  • Significance:

    This holiday honors the establishment of the Chakri Dynasty, which continues to reign in Thailand. The day is marked by tributes to the monarchy.

  • Market Closure:

    The market observes this holiday on the following Monday, providing a break for investors.

4. Songkran (Thai New Year) - April 13 to April 15, 2025

  • Dates: April 13 (Sunday), April 14 (Monday), and April 15 (Tuesday)

  • Significance:

    Songkran is Thailand’s traditional New Year and one of its most celebrated festivals. Known for its water-splashing events, the holiday symbolizes renewal and cleansing. Families reunite, and blessings are given to elders.

  • Market Closure:

    The SET observes a three-day closure, making it one of the longest breaks in the trading calendar. Investors should plan ahead for reduced market activity and potential liquidity challenges.

Songkran Festival: Top 100+ Best Wishes, Quotes and Messages Songkran Festival: Top 100+ Best Wishes, Quotes and Messages

5. Labor Day - May 1, 2025

  • Date: May 1 (Thursday)

  • Significance:

    Labor Day recognizes the contributions of workers to Thailand’s economic progress. It is a public holiday marked by parades and community events.

  • Market Closure:

    The SET halts trading for the day, aligning with international labor celebrations.

6. Visakha Bucha Day - May 22, 2025

  • Date: May 22 (Thursday)

  • Significance:

    Visakha Bucha commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha. It is one of the holiest days in Buddhism and is observed with temple visits and meditation.

  • Market Closure:

    Trading is suspended, allowing for religious observance.

7. Asalha Bucha Day - July 21, 2025

  • Date: July 21 (Monday)

  • Significance:

    This Buddhist holiday marks the Buddha’s first sermon and the founding of the Sangha (monastic community).

  • Market Closure:

    The SET is closed for the day, providing a mid-year pause for investors.

8. King’s Birthday - July 28, 2025

  • Date: July 28 (Monday)

  • Significance:

    This holiday celebrates the birthday of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Rama X. The day is marked by royal ceremonies and acts of national pride.

  • Market Closure:

    Trading halts for the day to honor the monarchy.

9. Queen Mother’s Birthday - August 12, 2025

  • Date: August 12 (Tuesday)

  • Significance:

    This day celebrates the birthday of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, and is also observed as Mother’s Day in Thailand.

  • Market Closure:

    The market observes a full-day closure for this important occasion.

10. Chulalongkorn Day - October 23, 2025

  • Date: October 23 (Thursday)

  • Significance:

    This day honors King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) for his contributions to modernizing Thailand, including the abolition of slavery.

  • Market Closure:

    Trading is suspended for the day, allowing participants to reflect on national progress.

11. King Bhumibol Memorial Day - December 5, 2025

  • Date: December 5 (Friday)

  • Significance:

    This holiday honors the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), who is deeply revered for his long and impactful reign.

  • Market Closure:

    The SET observes this holiday, providing a moment of national unity and reflection.

12. Christmas Day - December 25, 2025

  • Date: December 25 (Thursday)

  • Significance:

    Christmas is celebrated by Thailand’s Christian community and is increasingly recognized as a festive occasion nationwide.

  • Market Closure:

    The market aligns with global practices and remains closed for the day.

Learn more: Thailand Calendar in 2025 - Full List of Public Holidays, Observances And Celebrations

Trading Hours of the Thai Stock Market

The SET operates on the following schedule:

  • Morning Session: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM ICT

    The first trading session focuses on equities, derivatives, and other instruments.

  • Afternoon Session: 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM ICT

    The market resumes after a break, allowing investors to finalize transactions.

The SET is closed on weekends and public holidays.

Unique Features of the Thai Stock Market

  1. Strong Ties to Tourism

    Thailand’s stock market is heavily influenced by its tourism sector, with companies in hospitality, aviation, and retail playing a significant role.

  2. Commodity-Driven Economy

    Agriculture and natural resources, such as rubber and rice, are key drivers of the Thai economy, impacting stocks in these sectors.

  3. Government Initiatives

    Programs like Thailand 4.0 focus on innovation, automation, and digitalization, spurring growth in tech and manufacturing sectors.

  4. Dividend-Paying Stocks

    Many Thai companies offer high dividend yields, appealing to income-focused investors.

  5. Integration with ASEAN Markets

    As a member of ASEAN, Thailand benefits from regional trade agreements and cross-border investment opportunities.

Investment Tips for Navigating the SET

  1. Plan Around Holidays

    Account for closures during long breaks like Songkran to manage liquidity and trading strategies.

  2. Focus on Key Sectors

    Invest in tourism, energy, and banking sectors, which are pivotal to Thailand’s economy.

  3. Explore Dividend Stocks

    High-dividend-paying companies in Thailand provide consistent returns, particularly in sectors like utilities and real estate.

  4. Monitor Government Policies

    Keep an eye on policies related to infrastructure and innovation, as they can significantly impact market performance.

  5. Leverage ETFs

    Use exchange-traded funds to gain diversified exposure to the SET Index.

Conclusion

The Stock Exchange of Thailand offers a wealth of opportunities for investors, backed by a robust economy, strategic regional ties, and a commitment to innovation. Understanding its holiday schedule, trading hours, and unique features will help you navigate this vibrant market effectively in 2025.

FAQs

1. When does the Thai stock market close in 2025 for holidays?

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) observes public holidays based on Thailand’s official calendar. In 2025, the market will be closed on significant holidays such as New Year’s Day (January 1), Songkran (April 13-15), and King’s Birthday (July 28).

The longest break occurs during Songkran, Thailand’s traditional New Year, which spans three days. Other holidays like Makha Bucha Day (February 11) and Visakha Bucha Day (May 22) reflect the nation’s Buddhist heritage.

Investors are advised to consult the full holiday schedule available on the SET website and plan their trades to avoid disruptions, especially during extended closures.

2. What are the trading hours of the Thai Stock Market?

The SET operates on the following schedule:

  • Morning Session: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM ICT

    This session covers the first half of the trading day, focusing on equities and derivatives.

  • Afternoon Session: 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM ICT

    Trading resumes after a lunch break, offering investors time to adjust strategies based on market developments.

The SET is closed on weekends and public holidays. For international traders, it’s important to consider the time difference and align trading activities accordingly.

3. Is the SET open on weekends?

No, the Stock Exchange of Thailand is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Weekend closures align with global market practices, providing investors time to review their portfolios and analyze market trends.

Although the market is inactive during weekends, international developments—such as changes in oil prices, geopolitical events, or global economic announcements—can significantly impact Monday’s opening session. Staying updated on these factors is crucial for effective portfolio management.

4. What makes the Thai stock market unique?

The Thai stock market stands out for several reasons:

  • Tourism-Driven Economy: Companies in the tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors play a major role in the SET, reflecting Thailand’s position as a top global tourist destination.
  • Strong Dividend Culture: Many Thai companies, particularly in utilities and real estate, offer attractive dividend yields, appealing to income-focused investors.
  • Innovation Through Thailand 4.0: The government’s focus on technology and automation has driven growth in manufacturing and digital sectors.
  • Commodity Influence: Thailand is a significant exporter of rubber, rice, and sugar, with these commodities impacting related stock sectors.
  • ASEAN Integration: As a key player in the ASEAN Economic Community, Thailand benefits from regional trade agreements and cross-border investments.

5. How can international investors access the SET?

International investors can access the Stock Exchange of Thailand through several methods:

  1. Global Brokerage Accounts: Many international brokers provide access to the SET, allowing direct trading of Thai stocks.
  2. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): ETFs tracking the SET Index or specific Thai sectors offer diversified exposure without the need to manage individual stocks.
  3. American Depositary Receipts (ADRs): Some large Thai companies, such as PTT and Bangkok Bank, issue ADRs listed on international exchanges, simplifying access for foreign investors.
  4. Regional Mutual Funds: ASEAN-focused mutual funds often include Thai stocks as part of their portfolios, providing regional diversification.

Before investing, consider factors such as currency exchange risks, transaction fees, and regulatory requirements. Engaging with brokers specializing in Southeast Asian markets can provide valuable insights and streamline the investment process.

6. What are the growth opportunities in Thailand’s stock market?

The SET offers numerous growth opportunities across traditional and emerging sectors:

  • Tourism and Hospitality: As a leading global tourist destination, Thailand’s tourism rebound post-pandemic has created significant opportunities in hospitality, airlines, and retail sectors.
  • Digital Transformation: The Thailand 4.0 initiative focuses on innovation, automation, and smart technology, driving growth in tech-related industries.
  • Infrastructure Development: Government projects in transportation, energy, and industrial zones are boosting infrastructure and construction-related stocks.
  • Renewable Energy: Investments in solar, wind, and biomass energy are growing as Thailand transitions toward sustainable energy solutions.
  • Consumer Goods: With a rising middle class and strong domestic demand, consumer goods remain a robust sector for long-term investments.
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