The Market for Alternative Investment (mai) reported that in 2006 investors paid more interest to small and medium-sized firms, helping boost mai’s Index and market capitalization significantly higher than end-2005. Twenty-four new listings are expected in 2007. mai also plans to tap potential companies in logistics and food and drugs industries. Among its marketing events planned for this year is the seminar scheduled for Jan. 25, named ”mai on Stage.”
The mai index peaked at 206.02 on December 12 and closed at 193.43 on December 29, increasing 30.20% and 22.25% from end-2005, reported Mr. Chanitr Charnchainarong, mai President. Market capitalization of the mai grew from THB 21,810 million (approx. USD 605.83 million) to THB 14,314 million. (approx. USD 397.61 million).
There were six new listings in 2006, boosting total public firms on the mai to 42. It is expected there will be 24 new listings in 2007.
“The mai will market more proactively, tapping potential companies in the cities and regions. The mai realizes the importance of small businesses and the regional economy, and will therefore help local entrepreneurs access funds more conveniently. To achieve this, the mai will cooperate with alliances, e.g., with SME Bank and the Board of Investment. Its target industries include ICT, culture technology, media, professional services, as well as new potentials like logistics and food & drugs,” Mr. Chanitr said.
mai will appoint an independent institution or researcher to study the operation procedures and the role of SET in supporting the matching fund that they had proposed to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This fund will be used to match capital invested by entrepreneurs in targeted sectors. The study is expected to be submitted to SEC by Q2/2007.
To promote mai-listed company information, the mai will communicate with investors through several media, and will organize seminars and events. The first seminar, on Jan. 25, will be entitled, “mai on Stage.” This will be the first of a 3-session series bringing company executives to meet with investors. In addition, mai will take part in the Thai Investors’ Day, on February 3.
