Kaohoon Morning Brief – 12 October 2021
Morning brief of major stories since the closing of Thai stock market on 12 October 2021.
1) Thailand reopening starts November 1
The Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha stated on October 11, 2021, that Thailand will welcome international tourists from low risk countries who are fully vaccinated and without the requirement for quarantine.
2) Texas Gov. issues order to ban vaccine mandate
Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order to prohibit any entity, including private businesses, from imposing Covid-19 vaccine mandate on employees or customers., saying that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective, and our best defense against the virus, but should remain voluntary and never forced.
3) Oil prices surge amid shortage crisis
Oil prices surged amid rising demand from power and gas shortages, especially in the country with the highest consumption rate like China. Brent closed 1.5% higher on Monday at $83.65 a barrel and WTI closed 1.5% higher at $80.52 per barrel.
4) Bank of Korea keeps policy rate unchanged
South Korea’s central bank kept interest rates unchanged at 0.75% after making a first hike in three years in August. The central bank is trying to contain a spike in private sector debt, property market and inflation that surged above its target.