BETHESDA, MD, January 31, 2025 – Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program, once again invites travelers to fast track their status and earn bonus points with its fan-favorite global promotion. Registered Marriott Bonvoy members can earn 1,000 bonus points and one bonus Elite Night Credit for each eligible paid night stayed during the promotion earning period from February 11 to April 28, 2025. Registration is open today and runs through until April 14, 2025.
With this promotion, members can achieve a higher Marriott Bonvoy Elite status tier twice as fast – for example, a base member can achieve Silver Elite status in just five nights instead of ten. Elite members enjoy benefits like priority late checkout, upgrades, special amenities and more. Additionally, bonus points earned can help members get closer to the people, places and passions they love whether redeeming for a stay with one of Marriott Bonvoy’s more than 30 brands and 10,000 destinations or experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime Marriott Bonvoy Moment.
Additional details listed below:
Registration is open here now through April 14, 2025. The promotion earning period runs from February 11 to April 28, 2025.
Stays completed prior to registration are not eligible to earn with this promotion. Members must register before April 14, 2025.
A hotel must participate in Marriott Bonvoy at the time of the stay to qualify as a night under the promotion terms.
Members must book stays directly with Marriott on Marriott.com, in the Marriott Bonvoy Mobile app or through a reservation center. Rates available through most third-party online retailers and select travel agency rates do not qualify for this promotion.
Nights at BVLGARI, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Marriott Executive Apartments®, and owner-occupied weeks at Marriott Vacation Club®, Grand Residences by Marriott®, Marriott Grand Residence Club, Sheraton Vacation Club, Westin Vacation Club, The Ritz-Carlton Club, The St. Regis Residence Club, and The Luxury Collection Residence Club, are not eligible for bonus Points or bonus Elite Night Credits for this promotion.
For more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com.
BANGKOK — Thailand’s gem and jewelry industry continues to strengthen its global market position, achieving $9.6 billion in export value (excluding unwrought gold) in 2024, marking an impressive 10.99% growth despite worldwide economic challenges.
The kingdom has secured its place as the world’s second-largest silver jewelry exporter and third-largest colored gemstone exporter, with gemstone exports doubling in value over the past decade. This status has been further cemented by leading mining companies like Fura Gems and Gemfields choosing Thailand as their preferred location for gemstone auctions.
The upcoming 71st Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair in February 2025, Asia’s oldest and most prestigious industry event, reflects this market strength, attracting over 1,100 exhibitors across 2,600 booths. The event is expected to draw more than 40,000 international visitors and generate over 3.5 billion baht in trade value.
The 71st Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair will take place from 22-26 February 2025, spanning Halls 1–8 (G and LG floors) at QSNCC, Bangkok.
The fair is honored to welcome Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, who will preside over the opening ceremony. The event will feature a special exhibition titled “AMOUR ÉTERNEL HAUTE JOAILLERIE,” a collection of jewelry pieces personally designed by Her Royal Highness and crafted by Thailand’s finest artisans. This showcase demonstrates her commitment to preserving Thai craftsmanship and promoting the industry on a global scale.
Sumed Prasongpongchai, Director-General of GIT, emphasized the fair’s unparalleled selection, particularly in colored gemstones, which account for nearly 50% of all booths—reinforcing Thailand’s position as the world’s colored gemstone hub.
The 71st edition of the Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair or “Bangkok Gems” is set to take place from February 22–26, 2025, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC)
Wreckage is seen in the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025 in Washington. (Petty Officer 2nd Class Taylor Bacon, U.S. Coast Guard via AP)
ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — A midair collision between an Army helicopter and a jetliner killed all 67 people aboard the two aircraft, officials said Thursday, as they scrutinized the actions of the military pilot in the country’s deadliest aviation disaster in almost a quarter century.
At least 28 bodies were pulled from the icy waters of the Potomac River after the helicopter apparently flew into the path of the American Airlines regional jet late Wednesday while it was landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport, just across the river from Washington, officials said. The plane carried 60 passengers and four crew members, and three soldiers were aboard the helicopter.
President Donald Trump told a White House news conference that no one survived.
“We are now at the point where we are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation,” said John Donnelly, the fire chief in the nation’s capital.
President Donald Trump speaks in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
The crash occurred before 9 p.m. in some of the most tightly controlled and monitored airspace in the world, just over 3 miles (about 4.8 kilometers) south of the White House and the Capitol.
Air crash investigations can take months, and federal investigators told reporters they would not speculate on the cause.
National Transportation Safety Board investigators recovered the cockpit voice recorder and the flight data recorder from the Bombardier CRJ700 airplane, agency spokesperson Peter Knudson said. They were at the agency’s labs for evaluation.
The plane was found upside-down in three sections in waist-deep water, and first responders were searching miles of the Potomac, Donnelly said. The helicopter wreckage was also found. Images from the river showed boats around the partly submerged wing and the mangled wreckage of the plane’s fuselage.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said the plane was making a normal approach when “the military aircraft came into the path” of the jet.
One air traffic controller was responsible for coordinating helicopter traffic and arriving and departing planes when the collision happened, according to a report by the Federal Aviation Administration that was obtained by The Associated Press. Those duties are often divided between two people, but the airport typically combines the roles at 9:30 p.m, once traffic begins to slow down. On Wednesday the tower supervisor directed that they be combined earlier.
“The position configuration was not normal for the time of day and volume of traffic,” the report said. A person familiar with the matter, however, said the tower staffing that night was at a normal level.
Wichita mayor Lily Wu hugs Pastor Albert Paredes during a prayer vigil in Wichita, Kan., on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, for those affected by the crash of American Airlines flight 5342 near Washington the day before. (AP Photo/Travis Heying)
The positions are regularly combined when controllers need to step away from the console for breaks, during shift changes or when air traffic is slow, the person said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal procedures.
The Federal Aviation Administration has long struggled with a shortage of air traffic controllers.
Officials said flight conditions were clear as the jet arrived from Wichita, Kansas, carrying, among others, a group of elite young figure skaters, their parents and coaches, and four union steamfitters from the Washington area.
A top Army aviation official said the crew of the helicopter, a Black Hawk, was “very experienced” and familiar with the congested flying that occurs daily around the city.
“Both pilots had flown this specific route before, at night. This wasn’t something new to either one of them,” said Jonathan Koziol, chief of staff for Army aviation.
The helicopter’s maximum allowed altitude at the time was 200 feet (about 60 meters), Koziol said. It was not immediately clear whether it exceeded that limit, but Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said altitude seemed to be a factor in the collision.
Koziol said investigators need to analyze the flight data before making conclusions about altitude.
Trump opened the news conference with a moment of silence honoring the crash victims, calling it an “hour of anguish” for the country.
But he spent most of his time casting political blame, lashing out at former President Joe Biden’s administration and diversity efforts at the Federal Aviation Administration, saying they had led to slipping standards — even as he acknowledged that the cause of the crash was unknown.
Former Olympic skater Nancy Kerrigan, right, is embraced while arriving at The Skating Club of Boston with fellow Olympic skater Tenley Albright, left, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, in Norwood, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
Without evidence, Trump blamed air traffic controllers, the helicopter pilots and Democratic policies at federal agencies. He claimed that the FAA was “actively recruiting workers who suffer severe intellectual disabilities, psychiatric problems and other mental and physical conditions under a diversity and inclusion hiring initiative.”
Inside Reagan National, the mood was somber Thursday as stranded passengers waited for flights to resume, sidestepping camera crews and staring out the windows at the Potomac, where recovery efforts were barely visible in the distance.
Aster Andemicael had been there since the previous evening with her older adult father, who was flying to Indiana to visit relatives. She spent much of the long night thinking about the victims and their families.
“I’ve been crying since yesterday,” Andemicael said, her voice cracking. “This is devastating.”
Flights resumed around midday.
The deadliest plane crash since November 2001
Wednesday’s crash was the deadliest in the U.S. since Nov. 12, 2001, when an American Airlines flight slammed into a residential area of Belle Harbor, New York, just after takeoff from Kennedy Airport, killing all 260 people aboard and five people on the ground.
The last major fatal crash involving a U.S. commercial airline occurred in 2009 near Buffalo, New York. Everyone aboard the Bombardier DHC-8 propeller plane was killed, along with one person on the ground, bringing the total death toll to 50.
Experts often highlight that plane travel is overwhelmingly safe, however. The National Safety Council estimates that Americans have a 1-in-93 chance of dying in a motor vehicle crash, while deaths on airplanes are too rare to calculate the odds. Figures from the Department of Transportation tell a similar story.
But the airspace around Reagan National can challenge even the most experienced pilots no matter how ideal the conditions. They must navigate hundreds of other commercial planes, military aircraft and restricted areas around sensitive sites.
Just over 24 hours before the fatal collision, a different regional jet had to go around for a second chance at landing at Reagan National after it was advised about a military helicopter nearby, according to flight tracking sites and control logs. It landed safely minutes later.
Tragedy stuns Wichita
The crash devastated the Kansas city, which prides itself on being in America’s heartland. Wichita hosted the U.S. Figure Skating Championships this year for the first time, along with training camps for top young skaters.
The city has been a major hub for the aircraft industry since the early days of commercial flight, and it is home to the U.S. headquarters for Bombardier, which manufactured the jetliner. So many regional workers have jobs tied to the industry that the area’s economy slumps when sales dip.
Several hundred people gathered in the city council chambers for a prayer vigil.
“We will get through this, but the only way we will get through this is together,” said the Rev. Pamela Hughes Mason of St. Paul AME Church.
Collision happened in tightly controlled airspace
Flight 5342 was inbound to Reagan National at an altitude of about 400 feet (122 meters) and a speed of about 140 mph (225 kph) when it rapidly lost altitude over the Potomac, according to data from its radio transponder. The Canadian-made Bombardier CRJ-700 twin-engine jet, manufactured in 2004, can be configured to carry up to 70 passengers.
A few minutes before the crash, air traffic controllers directed the jet to a shorter runway, and flight-tracking sites showed that it adjusted its approach.
Less than 30 seconds before the collision, an air traffic controller asked the helicopter if it had the arriving plane in sight.
A crewmember said the aircraft was in sight and requested “visual separation” — allowing it to fly closer than otherwise might be allowed if pilots did not see the plane. Controllers approved the request.
Thai hostages who were freed from Hamas, from left to right, Surasak Rumnao, Sathian Suwannakham, Bannawat Saethao, Watchara Sriaoun, and Pongsak Thaenna hold the Thailand flag in Israel, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025. (Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv via AP)
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) — Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip released five Thai and three Israeli hostages on Thursday, handing them over to the Red Cross amid chaotic crowds. It was part of a swap that’s set to see 110 Palestinians released from Israeli prisons.
The sight of the Israeli hostages being escorted by armed fighters through thousands of onlookers drew condemnation from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, who said he wouldn’t free this round of Palestinian prisoners until mediators assured the safe release of hostages in future exchanges.
He later said he received such a commitment, although he didn’t confirm the expected releases.
This was the third such exchange since a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza began earlier this month. The fragile truce is aimed at ending the war in Gaza and securing the release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas, as well as hundreds of Palestinians imprisoned or detained by Israel.
All 5 Thai hostages are in good health, official says
BANGKOK, Thailand — All five of the released Thai hostages appear to be in good health but will receive more thorough medical check-ups in light of their 15 months in captivity, a spokesperson for Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nikorndej Balankura, said.
The men, who range in age from 27 to 36, are expected to return to Thailand within 10 days depending on their physical condition and completion of the necessary paperwork, the spokesperson said at a news conference in Bangkok.
He said the total number of Thai nationals affected include 46 fatalities, 28 released hostages and one remaining hostage. Israel says three Thais remain in captivity, two of whom are believed to be dead.
A number of foreign workers were taken hostage along with dozens of Israeli civilians and soldiers during Hamas’ attack on Oct. 7, 2023. Twenty-three Thais were among more than 100 hostages released during a weeklong ceasefire in November 2023.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra thanked Qatar, Egypt, Iran, Turkey, the United States, Israel, and the Red Cross, for helping to negotiate the Thais’ release in a separate deal from the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. She said Thailand’s minister of foreign affairs would travel to Israel this weekend.
Red Cross vehicles, left, wait for the hand-over of Israeli soldier hostage Agam Berger at the Jabalya refugee camp in Gaza City, Thursday Jan. 30, 2025.(AP Photo/Mohammad Abu Samra)
Thai ambassador says she’s ‘holding her breath’
BEER YAAKOV, Israel — Thailand’s ambassador to Israel said she was “holding her breath” along with the entire country of Israel for the release of five Thai agricultural workers who were kidnapped on Oct. 7.
“We have nothing to do with this conflict, they just happened to be there, and they are working tirelessly on the farms and kibbutzes,” said Ambassador Pannabha Chandraramya as she watched footage from Gaza at the Israeli hospital where the Thai workers will be brought upon their return to Israel.
She added that despite the war, Thai agricultural workers are continuing to come to Israel. Prior to the attack, less than 30,000 Thai workers were in Israel, mostly in the agricultural sector, and that number has grown to 38,000 today.
Chandraramya said the Thai government had notified the families of all six surviving Thai hostages, because they are not sure which five will be released. The bodies of another two Thai hostages who were killed on Oct. 7, 2023 are also being held in Gaza.
The Shamir Medical Center, outside of Tel Aviv, has a number of Thai-speaking social workers and psychologists to assist the hostages being released.
Who are the Thai hostages released by Hamas?
Watchara Sriaoun, 33
In the Oct. 7 attack, militants overran the compound where agricultural workers lived on Kibbutz Nir Oz. Out of the 16 Thai workers living there, 11 were killed and five, including Watchara Sriaoun, were abducted.
They were among at least 31 Thai workers taken in the assault. In the November 2023 ceasefire, 23 were released in a deal negotiated between Thailand and Hamas, with assistance from Qatar and Iran.
Sathian Suwannakham, 35
Sathian Suwannakham was also taken from Nir Oz. The kibbutz has continued to advocate for the release of the Thai workers by posting regularly about them on social media, in addition to the Israeli hostages.
About 30,000 Thais were working in Israel when the war started, according to the Thai Foreign Ministry, the vast majority in agriculture. About 5,000 of them lived in the southern area near the border with Gaza.
Surasak Rumnao, 32
Surasak Rumnao was abducted from the town of Yesha, located near the southern Gaza Strip.
His mother, Khammee Lamnao, said the Thai embassy in Israel called her to let her know her son would be released.
“I cannot wait to see my son,” the 53-year-old said. “I’ve been waiting for him.”
Surasak had been working in the agricultural sector in Israel for 15 months when he was taken hostage.
Pongsak Thaenna, 36
Pongsak Thaenna was also taken from the town of Yesha. Thais make up the largest group of foreigners held in Gaza.
Bannawat Saethao was also abducted from the town of Yesha.
Israel’s Netanyahu says mediators have assured a safe exit for hostages in Gaza for future exchanges
JERUSALEM — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says mediators have assured the safe exit for hostages in Gaza going forward, paving the way for the release of Palestinian prisoners.
He did not confirm the release, but Israeli media reported that it would happen later Thursday.
The chaotic handover Thursday of some of the Israeli captives in Gaza, who were shuttled through a rowdy crowd of thousands by masked militants, drew an angry protest from Israel. Netanyahu had said the release of Palestinian prisoners was put on hold until the “safe release” of hostages can be assured and called on mediators to intervene.
Israeli president thanks Thai government for support
JERUSALEM — Israel’s president thanked the Thai government for its support as he met with the Thai ambassador Thursday, ahead of the release of five Thai hostages from captivity in Gaza.
The Thai government confirmed Thursday that five Thai hostages were released from Gaza. The hostages, who were pulled from the farming communities in southern Israel where they worked as agricultural laborers on Oct. 7, 2023, were among 31 Thais taken by Hamas.
President Isaac Herzog said in a statement posted to X that he told Pannabha Chandraramya, the ambassador of Thailand to Israel, that “the people of Israel are very moved by the release of our Thai brothers from the hell of captivity.”
He thanked the Thai government for its support and vowed to continue trying to secure the release of Thai hostages who remain in Gaza.
Twenty-three others were already released. Another two have been confirmed dead, and the status of one remaining person is not clear.
Netanyahu puts Palestinian prisoners’ release on hold
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has put the release of Palestinian prisoners on hold until the “safe release” of hostages is assured after a chaotic handover in Gaza.
Netanyahu demanded that mediators intervene after some hostages released Thursday were led through a rowdy crowd of thousands by masked militants.
Israel was supposed to release 110 Palestinian prisoners later Thursday, including around 30 serving life sentences for deadly attacks against Israelis.
Agam Berger reunites with family at military base
TEL AVIV, Israel — “We’re here and we’re never leaving you,” Agam Berger’s mother, Merav, told her daughter in the moments of their initial reunion on Israeli soil after Agam’s release on Thursday from Hamas captivity.
Berger, 20, was among five young female soldiers abducted when militants overran the Nahal Oz military base in the Hamas-led attack on Oct. 7, 2023, killing over 60 soldiers there. The other four were released Saturday.
The family was reunited at a specially prepared reception area in a military base near the Gaza border. A pale looking Berger wiped away tears as she sat on her mother’s lap and held her father’s hand, as seen in footage released by the Israeli army.
From the military base, Berger was flown to a hospital in central Israel, where she will meet her fellow released soldiers.
Suvarnabhumi Airport welcomes 190 tourists arriving from Haikou, People's Republic of China, on January 29, 2025.
BANGKOK — Thailand’s tourism sector faces mixed signals as Chinese tourist arrivals show both growth and concerning trends during the Lunar New Year period. While Airports of Thailand (AOT) reports strong overall numbers with 769,195 Chinese passengers expected during the festival, marking a 22.6% increase from last year, industry insiders note some worrying patterns.
The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) reports a 10-20% decline in Chinese independent travelers, with an even sharper drop in group tours. Despite daily arrival numbers exceeding 20,000 visitors during the holiday season, tourism officials are preparing for additional challenges in the coming months.
Tourists enthusiastically watch and photograph the Golden Dragon performance, featuring a 59-meter-long dragon, on Pattaya Walking Street on January 29, 2025.
“While the current situation remains satisfactory, we’re preparing for the post-vacation period,” says TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool, maintaining the authority’s ambitious target of welcoming 8 million Chinese tourists in 2025. Recent concerns about scam operations targeting Chinese citizens have caused minor market disruptions, particularly affecting first-time travelers from second-tier Chinese cities.”
In response, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is launching a comprehensive marketing campaign focusing on direct engagement with travel agents and specific regional markets. Pattaranong Na Chiangmai, TAT’s deputy governor for Asia and the South Pacific, emphasizes that Chinese tourists heavily rely on travel agencies and charter flights, making these channels crucial for rebuilding trust.
The strategy includes:
Direct engagement with Chinese travel agents
Targeted promotions in key provinces
Special discount campaigns
Enhanced word-of-mouth communication channels
Thailand’s aviation sector shows promising recovery signs, with AOT forecasting 24,599 flights during the Chinese New Year period, a 16.7% increase from the previous year. International flights are expected to rise by 22.1%, indicating robust growth in overseas travel demand.
Adding to potential positive momentum, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s upcoming visit to China from February 5-8, including a meeting with President Xi Jinping, could help restore confidence. ATTA officials believe this diplomatic engagement, combined with China’s strong information distribution networks, could accelerate the recovery of tourist confidence in Thailand as a safe destination.
The prestigious Princess’s Cup B.Grimm Thai Polo Open 2025, a highlight of Asia’s polo calendar, concluded successfully this past Saturday, January 25th, at the Thai Polo & Equestrian Club in Pattaya, Chonburi. The tournament, now in its 18th year, was a resounding success, living up to its reputation as a premier charity event eagerly awaited by polo enthusiasts.
Organized by Dr. Harald Link, Chairman of B.Grimm and President of the Thailand Equestrian Federation, along with Khun Nunthinee Tanner, Vice President of the Thailand Equestrian Federation, the event featured world-class polo action amidst the lush, natural surroundings of one of Asia’s finest international-standard polo grounds.
The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including H.E. Mr. Pedro Zwahlen, Ambassador of Switzerland to Thailand, and Asst. Prof. Buarong Liewchalermwongse, Assistant to the President of Chitralada Technology Institute, who added prestige to the tournament and celebrated the spirit of sportsmanship and charity.
This year’s competition showcased four exceptional teams:
Thai Polo – Thailand
Fast Fish– People’s Republic of China
22 BR – Hong Kong
Ahmebah– Brunei
After an intense series of matches earlier in January, the final match saw Thai Polo face off against Fast Fish in a thrilling showdown. In an electrifying display of skill and determination, Thai Polo emerged victorious, clinching the championship with a score of 7-6 and earning the coveted royal trophy graciously bestowed by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
More than just a celebration of sport, the event had a meaningful purpose—to support education through charitable initiatives. Proceeds from the event were donated to Chitralada Technology Institute, continuing B.Grimm’s dedication to community development. Guests also enjoyed a variety of fundraising activities, charity booths, and lively entertainment, with notable philanthropists and celebrities coming together to celebrate and contribute to this noble cause.
This year’s event delighted equestrian enthusiasts with the addition of a Show Jumping Competition, which took place earlier in the day. Riders demonstrated their precision, skill, and synergy with their horses, captivating the audience and adding another exciting dimension to the tournament. The show jumping competition perfectly complemented the thrilling polo matches, making it a truly memorable day for all attendees.
We are incredibly proud of the accomplishments achieved at this year’s Thai Polo Open. A heartfelt congratulations to all the teams, organizers, and supporters who made this event a tremendous success.
We look forward to welcoming you again next year for the 19th anniversary of this iconic tournament, where we will continue to celebrate the spirit of polo and contribute to the betterment of our society.
With 49% of the World’s Population and 40% of Global GDP, the Expanded BRICS Bloc Signals a Shift in Global Trade Dynamics.
BRICS—the alliance of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—has formalised its largest expansion to date, extending its influence across global markets. On January 6, 2025, Indonesia officially joined as a full member, marking a milestone for Southeast Asia’s role within the bloc. Earlier, on January 1, 2025, BRICS welcomed eight additional nations—Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan—as partner countries. Most recently, Nigeria joined BRICS as a partner country, further broadening the bloc’s geographic and economic diversity.
Now representing nearly half the world’s population and 40% of global GDP at purchasing power parity, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), BRICS holds significant sway over global markets BRICS wields considerable influence in global markets. In the energy sector, BRICS members such as Russia and Brazil rank among the top crude oil exporters globally, while China and South Africa lead in gold and platinum production, based on data from the International Energy Agency (IEA) and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Analysts at Chatham House emphasise that this economic power positions the bloc to reshape global trade flows, particularly in energy and commodity markets.
The effects of BRICS’ expansion are already being felt across key markets, from currency volatility to shifts in commodity pricing. As the bloc deepens cooperation on trade agreements and resource management, markets tied to crude oil, natural gas, and metals such as gold and silver are expected to see heightened activity. EBC Financial Group (EBC) monitors these evolving markets, focusing on trends and dynamics that shape the global financial landscape.
Impact on Markets
Currency volatility among member nations, including USD/INR and RMB/KZT, is drawing attention as trade agreements and economic policies evolve. At the same time, BRICS’ enhanced resource management is influencing commodity markets, with key impacts on crude oil, natural gas, and metals like gold and silver.
Emerging market indices, including Malaysia’s Bursa, Indonesia’s IDX Composite, and South Africa’s JSE, are positioned for increased foreign capital flows. These shifts, driven by BRICS initiatives in infrastructure and trade, reflect the bloc’s growing influence on global equity markets and its potential to unlock long-term growth opportunities.
Opportunities for Traders and Investors The BRICS expansion brings a myriad of opportunities across financial markets:
Forex Markets: The inclusion of new member economies introduces unique currency dynamics, with potential fluctuations in pairs like USD/INR, USD/MYR, and RMB/KZT. Interest rate adjustments across BRICS nations, such as Indonesia’s recent hikes to combat inflation, highlight regional monetary policy shifts that could influence global economic trends.
Commodities: BRICS nations command significant shares of global oil, gas, and metals markets. The bloc’s collaboration on trade agreements and resource management is poised to impact the flow of crude oil and natural gas, particularly with Kazakhstan’s growing role in energy exports. The metals sector, including dominance in gold and platinum production in China and South Africa, reflects ongoing opportunities for market participants, coupled by an increased demand for green energy infrastructure.
Equity Indices: The inclusion of economies like Uzbekistan and Thailand presents new diversification opportunities. Sovereign wealth funds in BRICS nations, such as Russia’s National Wealth Fund and China’s Belt and Road investments, are expected to bolster infrastructure development and regional cooperation. These initiatives could elevate investor confidence in local exchanges, including Malaysia’s Bursa and Kazakhstan’s KASE.
The inclusion of Indonesia and Malaysia into BRICS highlights a shift toward recognising Southeast Asia’s strategic role in global trade and finance. This development signals a deeper integration of diverse markets into the global economy, offering broader access to opportunities for retail traders and institutional players alike. As trading ecosystems adapt to these changes, market participants are increasingly seeking platforms that provide transparency, accessibility, and resilience amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.
AIS showcases its success, reaffirming its position as a Cognitive Tech-Co, with the potential of its Intelligence network and Fixed Broadband. The company is presenting a lineup of cutting-edge innovations, smartphones, and devices that cater to all digital lifestyles. AIS offers exclusive benefits to its customers at the biggest mobile event, the Thailand Mobile Expo 2025, taking place from January 30 to February 2, 2025, at booth PL10 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. This event aims to boost the Easy E-Receipt 2.0 initiative as part of the new year celebrations.
Saran Phaloprakarn, Head of Mobile and Consumer Products AIS, said, “As a leader in the telecommunications industry and a digital service provider, AIS has been confirmed as the No.1 network for both mobile and Fixed broadband in Thailand, as certified by Ookla Speed Test. Especially, AIS 5G has been rated number 1 by consumers in all categories, including speed and stability, covering over 95% of the Thai population. Our high-speed Fixed Broadband now reaches more than 20 million households. Additionally, we have collaborated with various partners to bring innovative solutions and experiences to our customers, allowing them to fully experience the power of our 5G network and smart fixed broadband.”
At the Thailand Mobile Expo 2025, AIS is offering special promotions for customers across all digital lifestyles, including working professionals, students, gamers, travelers, entertainment lovers, shoppers, and those seeking spiritual enhancement. Some highlights include:
For students and professionals: The AIS Cloud PC app allows you to turn your tablet into a portable computer using Windows, compatible with both Mac OS/iOS and Android devices. No need to buy a new computer, with pricing starting at just 299 THB per month, and all data is safely stored on the cloud.
For gamers: AIS introduces the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Series, the first in Thailand, featuring the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Special deals include up to 8,400 THB off and free gifts worth up to 7,760 THB.
For travelers: The HOVERAir X1 Pro Max foldable drone offers an 8K camera, compact size, and speeds up to 47 km/h, perfect for travelers and content creators. Exclusive accessories are included at the AIS booth at the Mobile Expo 2025.
For home entertainment: AIS 3BB FIBRE3 introduces the SMART WIRELESS MICROPHONE that pairs with the SMART SOUNDBAR for an upgraded karaoke experience, featuring Dolby ATMOS sound and THX technology, making karaoke sessions even more fun. It offers special functions such as Karaoke Quality, Normal Sound, and special sound modes like Chipmunk Voice and Child Voice. This all-in-one entertainment upgrade for fixed broadband customers is available for only 1,900 THB, including a pair of microphones, at AIS Online Store, AIS, and 3BB Shops.
For tax savings and shopping: AIS is offering Super Sale discounts of up to 50% on 5G smartphones and other gadgets. You can also use 10 AIS Points for discounts up to 12,200 THB and enjoy tax savings of up to 30,000 THB with Easy E-Receipt.
For Shopper, save more, and enjoy tax deductions! AIS rolls out a massive Super Sale, offering smartphones, gadgets, and accessories at unbeatable prices. Get up to 50% off on unlocked 5G smartphones or redeem 10 AIS Points for a discount of up to 12,200 THB. Plus, claim tax deductions of up to 30,000 THB with Easy E-Receipt!
For superstitious: AIS offers the Pernneung SIM card. These business-enhancing numbers, carefully selected by Sinsae Pernneung Wongphudon, an expert in numerology, are designed to bring prosperity and financial luck through the power of numerology. Enhance your luck and wealth throughout the Year 2025.
Kick off the Year of the Snake with style and positivity at MUNIMART, a one-of-a-kind event that combines trendy spiritual experiences and fortune-boosting activities. Hosted by The PARQ, in collaboration with Punduang and OUT OF BOX, transforms the space into a vibrant hub for new-generation spiritual enthusiasts with an exciting lineup of activities, inspiring talks, and exclusive shopping that will bring positive energy to your year! From January 27th to February 1st, 2025.
Step into the Horoscope Photo Booth for a fun and exciting way to explore astrology. Snap a photo to reveal personalized guidance for 2025 and take home
Discover yourself and unlock your full potential with the Workshop New Year, Better Me. Dive deep into the unique insights of Human Design, find your lucky colors through Personal Color analysis, and create your own Lucky Me keychain from recycled bottle caps. This workshop is designed to boost your confidence.
For shopping enthusiasts, the Mutelu Multi-Brand Market brings together stylish spiritual items crafted for the modern lifestyle. Highlights include zodiac bracelets by YVIS, gemstone jewelry by The Peridot, tarot-inspired candles by Abloom Candle, aromatic incense and home fragrances by VINAYAKA, and the Chinese Auspicious Deity Cards by piecebypeacho. Each item is thoughtfully designed to seamlessly blend fashion, spirituality, and functionality.
True spiritual enthusiasts can’t miss this inspiring community event filled with motivational insights and life-changing tips to elevate your success. Over two exciting days, discover how modern spirituality fuels success and positivity.
On Thursday, January 30th, 2025 (12:00 – 1:00 PM), explore the fascinating fusion of lucky charms and local culture and become Soft Power, delve into the topic ‘Why Korat Cat Patterned Pants?’ with Mr. Joe-Jirapisit Rutcharoen, the creative mastermind behind the success of Korat Cat Pants and the character design “Mueay Tired cat”,’ as well as the President of YEC Korat (Young Entrepreneur Chamber of Commerce). Following that, unlock the secrets of “Personal Color & Branding” with Ms. Chadvaroon Weangsong, a Digital Creator specializing in Instagram content creation, and Ms. Yanisara Wasusatiannon, a Certified Personal Colorist from the brand ‘jorjina.colorstudio, as they delve into how lucky colors connect prosperity with psychology.
On Saturday, February 1st, 2025 (12:00 – 1:00 PM), uncover practical wisdom in “Living Life with 30% Belief and 70% self Effort” with Ms. View-Phakwan Duangnoi, Brand Development Manager of Punduang, and true believers in the mystical world, including Ms. Palm-Patcharapan Tanarwatchanakarn, the owner of “Good Kid Calendar” and Mr. Moo-Thakoon Chaophasee, the owner and founder of the brand ‘Gai Bon Ban,’ a brand dedicated to eco-friendly offerings. Together, they will reveal how belief, paired with deliberate action, drives success and transforms lives.
Join us to complete a modern spiritual experience with “MUNIMART” where vibrant activities await to inspire positivity and confidence. Get ready to boost your Snake Year with no stress, just success at The PARQ Life, Level 1, Q Steps (MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Exit 2). From January 27th to February 1st, 2025. Let’s start your year with style and good vibes!
Kornapat Promhung, a Thai student who died in Hiroshima, Japan
BANGKOK — The Thai government is coordinating efforts to repatriate the remains of a Thai vocational student who was found deceased in Hiroshima, Japan, after being reported missing for nearly a month.
The case gained urgent attention after Ms. Nannaphat Tanming, a bank employee and aunt of the deceased student Kornapat Promhung, appealed directly to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra through media channels, citing a lack of communication from Thai officials in Japan. Her public plea prompted immediate action from multiple government departments.
In response, Foreign Minister Marise Sa-ngiempong instructed the Thai Embassy in Tokyo to launch an investigation, while the Labor Ministry paralleled these efforts with its own inquiry.
Labor Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakan expressed deep condolences to the family of Kornapat Promhung, a 24-year-old student from Loei Technical College who had been participating in an internship program in Hiroshima for over two years. The minister has instructed the Permanent Secretary of Labor to facilitate benefits claims for the deceased’s family and coordinate the return of his remains to Thailand.
Ms. Nannaphat Tanming, aunt of Kornapat Promhung, a Thai student from Loei province who died in Hiroshima, Japan, meets with the Loei Governor on January 28 to request assistance in coordinating with Thai and Japanese authorities to bring her nephew’s remains back to Thailand.
According to labor attaché reports, Kornapat, nicknamed “Nut,” went missing on December 22, 2024, after a gathering with nine friends at a restaurant in Hiroshima. His disappearance was noticed around 5:00 a.m. as the group was preparing to return to their accommodation.
Initial investigations revealed that Kornapat’s passport and bank documents remained in his room, and there was no activity in his bank account after his final salary payment in late December 2024. His body was discovered on January 22, 2025, in a stairwell between the second and third floors of a restaurant building.
Photos and documents of Kornapat Promhung, a Thai student who died in Hiroshima, Japan, provided by Ms. Nannaphat Tanming, his aunt. She appealed through media on January 27 for the Thai government’s assistance in investigating the case and returning his remains to Thailand.
Permanent Secretary of Labor Boonsong Tapchaiyut reported that Hiroshima Chuo Police Station’s autopsy results, released on January 29, were inconclusive due to the body’s condition. However, investigators found no evidence of assault, with CT scans showing no bone fractures or signs of physical trauma.
The Thai Labor Office in Japan is now working with consular officials to arrange the repatriation of Kornapat’s remains and secure various benefits he was entitled to under Japanese social security, including health insurance, pension benefits, private insurance claims, remaining bank balances, and benefits from Thailand’s Overseas Workers Fund.
Kornapat had been placed in the internship program by Thai Asawalert Recruitment Company and was under the supervision of the Cooperative Society Hiroshima Sokeizai Center. His family in Loei province had previously appealed to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and relevant authorities for assistance in investigating the case and returning his remains to Thailand.
