Bangkok Bank Director and Executive Vice President Dr. Thaweelap Rittapirom received the “Most Trusted Bank” award from Thailand’s Most Admired Brand 2022, a survey conducted by BrandAge magazine. It is the 22nd year the award has been organized. The award evaluates the credibility of brands and consumers’ deciding factors in purchasing or using services across the country, including ratings from marketers who have knowledge of the brand of each organization. The winners were selected through an intensive screening process according to academic principles at every step. The award is an index that helps measure the perception and popularity of brands in the eyes of consumers.

 

Bangkok Bank launched Be1st Digital debit card offering security and confidence for every online purchase. It is easy to apply for the card using the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking application and can be used instantly. The card provides high security, is available as both a physical and digital card, has a unique design, as is ideal for debit card users who look for convenience, speed and value. The card is being launched during Money Expo 2022 with three offers of fee waivers and online discount codes worth more than 2,300 baht.

Bangkok Bank Executive Vice President and Credit Card Division Manager Shoke Na Ranong revealed that Be1st Digital has been designed under the concept of Be Secure and Confident with Every Online Purchase, targeting young people who enjoy keeping up with trends, updating their lifestyles on social media and online shopping. The Be1st Digital debit card is easy to apply via the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking application and can be used immediately to make online purchases at local and international merchants. The card can be linked conveniently to e-wallets such as Rabbit LINE Pay, Google Pay and Dolphin Wallet.

Apart from the convenience of making an online application and being able to instantly use the Be1st Digital debit card, a physical debit card attached to the digital card account is also available. The physical EMV Chip card has a contactless function and doesn’t show the debit card information such as CVC/CVN or expiry date for enhanced security. Only the cardholder’s name and last name appear on the card. The physical card is also an ATM card. Using it with a six-digit PIN, customers can deposit, withdraw and transfer money via any bank’s ATM. The card can be used to withdraw cash and make payments overseas provided the name on the card matches the customers’ name on their passport. During the launch period, the physical card will be provided for all customers who apply for the Be1st Digital debit card and will be delivered to their given address. Customers can choose to enable or disable the card, set a transaction limit, set a purchase limit, and cancel the card 24 hours a day.

“The Be1st Digital debit card is aimed at the young generation, first jobbers and customers who enjoy a digital lifestyle including making online payments. The card provides convenience and value. The Future Shopper Report 2021 by Wunderman Thompson Thailand revealed that Thai consumers lead the global trend of online shopping with 94% compared with the global average of 72% which is in line with the Thailand Digital Stats 2022. At the same time, around 26.1% of Thai consumers are concerned about financial data leakage. Therefore, the Be1st Digital debit card can provide convenience and confidence as it eases concerns about financial data security.”

Mr. Shoke added that there is an international trend to use debit card to pay for goods and services via online channels and in Thailand. It has been growing every year for the past six years. Debit card payments to online merchants in 2021 were ten times higher than 2016, while the transaction value was 6.2 times higher. Among the outstanding points of the Be1st Digital card, customers can apply for the card online via Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking and use it immediately to make online payments. This solves a pain point of customers who are still worried about data security in the online world and will help them to be more confident. Be1st Digital debit card is expected to be the best debit card that meets the needs of debit card customers. In 2022, the Bank aims to acquire 1.5 million new debit cardholders in addition to the existing 10 million debit cards. The Bank also plans to collaborate with many leading partners to continually offer more privileges to Be1st Digital debit card customers.

Gulf-Kanawut Traipipatpong, a young talented actor who is a presenter of Be1st Digital debit card said: This card really fits my lifestyle as I play online games and can use this card to regularly buy items in games conveniently and securely. It also fits my online shopping lifestyle as I mostly buy things online from merchants domestically and internationally. Since I have to work almost every day, I don’t have time to go to shops or department stores, so I shop online when I’m free. I’m more confident in making payments with the Be1st Digital card for both direct payments and using the card with the e-wallet which is convenient and secure and I can make payments immediately without having to waste time picking a card and filling in information.

“Even though I shop online a lot, I’m very cautious about security. The platform I shop on must be reliable so I get what I order. Data security is important too for both personal data and card data that is used for payment. Bangkok Bank’s Be1st Digital card meets my needs on these points and gives me peace of mind when I shop and make payment. I believe many people have a similar lifestyle as me. So, I recommend the Be1st Digital debit card which can meet your needs the same way it meets mine,” said the young actor.

Be1st Digital debit card was launched on May 12, 2022 at Money Expo 2022. Customers applying for Be1st Digital during May 12 – August 31, 2022, will get both the digital card and a physical card together with many privileges: 1. Get waiver for card fee of 400 baht 2. Receive a 300 baht discount from Shopee, simply claim the discount at the ‘Lifestyle and offers’ menu on the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking application and 3. Receive a special code each month when reaching the required spending amount. The special codes are 100 baht for GrabFood, 80 baht for Grab. You will also get extra discounts for GrabFood or Grab of 150 baht when paying with the card via GrabPay for the first time and cash back of 100 baht for True Money Wallet. Total privileges are 2,300 baht (The Bank and companies’ conditions apply).

Interested persons can apply for the Be1st Digital debit card easily by themselves via the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking application. For more information, please call Bualuang Phone 1333 or 0 2645 5555.

 

Bangkok Bank, led by Director and Executive Vice President Thaweelap Rittapirom and Executive Vice President Pochanee Kongkalai, welcomed to the Bank’s booth at Money Expo Bangkok 2022 Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance Krisada Chinavicharana who presided over the event and Money Expo President Santi Viriyarangsarit. Bangkok Bank showcased its booth under the concept of “Design Your Wealth for Well-being” and introduced the Be1st Digital debit card with “Gulf” Kanawut Traipipatpong, a rising star, as a new presenter for the first time at the event. Meanwhile, Bualuang Securities launched the “Wealth Connex” application and organized seminars to share in-depth information for a new generation of investors in the digital age. The event was held in strict accordance with the measures to control the spread of Covid-19.

Bangkok Bank Director and Executive Vice President Thaweelap Rittapirom said Bangkok Bank joined the 22nd Money Expo Bangkok, or Money Expo 2022, from May 12-15, 2022, at Challenger Hall 2-3, Impact Muang Thong Thani. As a “trusted friend”, the Bank is ready to help our customers generate wealth according to their needs. Generating wealth for a stable life requires good planning, which is why the “Design Your Wealth for Well-being” theme is our concept this year. The Bank intends to help everyone grow their wealth and well-being in all aspects, which is in line with the Money Expo 2022 organizer's main idea, Wealth to Wellness, that presents wealth as an important part of establishing a good quality of life in a changing world.

In addition, the design of the Bank's booth supports the idea of moving towards a sustainable future to conserve the environment, another megatrend that the world is paying attention to, by reducing the use of consumables. Following this, the Bank reduced the amount of single-use structures in the booth and opted for zero waste materials. The existing steel structure and materials were reused and designed with a new composition to reinforce the complete image of the leading bank using modern and popular graphic icons to clearly communicate the contents of the booth as well as the Bank's identity to appeal to its target groups. This is also in line with financial products and services in the digital age.

Mr. Thaweelap added that, for the event this year, the Bank has prepared products and services that support both online and offline access to meet the lifestyles of customers post-Covid. The key highlight is the launch of Be1st Digital, a debit card that enables you to shop safely, while unveiling “Gulf” Kanawut Traipipatpong, a rising star, as a presenter for the first time at the event. Customers can apply for a Be1st Digital card via Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking and receive special privileges with a total value worth over 2,300 baht.

Another highlight is green loans such as Bualuang Poonphol Loans with a special interest rate of MRR-0.75% per annum for green financing for renovation/decoration/repair using clean energy technology or innovations or renewable energy like solar rooftops or wind turbines. It also applies to universal designs for equal access for the disabled, children and the elderly, such as ramp construction, corridor width design and the installation of assistive devices. Additionally, there is Bualuang Green Loans for SMEs that invest in environmentally friendly businesses under the concept of Reuse, Recycle, and Emit no Pollutants. The Bank will offer a special low interest rate throughout the contract period.

For products to help build wealth that can be customized according to customers’ needs, the Bank focuses on providing useful and professional financial advice and planning. This year, we introduced new SSFs, namely Bualuang Global Innovation & Technology Super Savings Fund (B-INNOTECHSSF) and Bualuang Asia Equity Super Savings Fund (B-ASIASSF), as well as life insurance, namely Be Together Health Happy and Be Together Care. Financial products and services that meet the needs of customers in all dimensions and every lifestyle are still one of the highlights that the Bank has prepared to present at the event along with more updated functions and great promotions such as:

• New features from Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking to provide better services including dStatement, a service to request and send digital statements across banks and international funds transfer services, allowing for more secure transfers to 124 countries with 17 currencies.
• e-Savings account provides convenience for your savings, transfers, payments and investment. Customers will receive a Be Cool bag valued at 129 baht when opening an e-Savings account and authenticating identities using Mobile ID at the event.
• Bangkok Bank credit cards serve customers with many special privileges from partners shops and networks. Customers will receive special gifts when applying for a Bangkok Bank AirAsia Credit Card.
• Participating Be Together life insurance policies. Customers will receive two privileges, including 0% installment payments for 10 months (a minimum premium of 10,000 baht/sales slip) as well as cash back into their deposit accounts (for the policy approved within July 31, 2022).
• AIA Health Happy Rider from AIA / Covid Complete Insurance, Three Diseases Plus Insurance or Gain 1st Life Insurance from Bangkok Life Assurance / PA 1st Non-Life Insurance from Bangkok Insurance.
• Mutual Funds is offering Super Savings Funds (SSF) for long-term investment and tax privileges from Bualuang Asset Management and Bangkok Capital Asset Management.
• Introducing Agent Service from Bualuang Securities. Receiving two special privileges when opening a securities trading account with Bualuang Securities via Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking or at any Bangkok Bank branch.

Special gifts! Customers will receive an alcohol spray valued at 59 baht when applying for the Bank’s products at the event and a shopping bag valued at 199 baht when applying for Be1st Digital debit card / Life and Non-Life Insurance / Bualuang Poonphol Loans (Green Financing and Universal Design groups)

Furthermore, Bualuang Securities Public Company Limited or BLS, one of the Bank’s financial groups, will roll out the Wealth Connex mobile application, an application that connects all knowledge and investment services embedded with features including chats, discussion and exchange of investment ideas with analysts and experts, and a complete range of articles / live streams / VDOs and other learning materials. BLS will also organize “In Depth Investments for the New Generation in the Digital Age” seminar to share interesting investment information to investors from Bualuang Securities executives.

Mr. Thaweelap added that although the Covid-19 situation begins to unravel, Bangkok Bank continues to strictly abide with the event’s prevention measures from the organizers and the government to give confidence to visitors and the Bank’s staff. The Bank has appropriately arranged the area with social distancing and limited numbers of staff in the booth. Attending staff are required to be fully vaccinated and must present their ATK test results before working. The Bank will also provide protective equipment at the event for customers and staff’s safety.

“Being healthy is important, which the Covid-19 situation has highlighted. It is very good that nowadays that the Bank and its customers are like trusted friends who are about to move past this event together. This is the moment that we need to care more about our financial wellness, because it will help create holistic well-being which covers good physical, mental, and emotional health, good social, education, work and environment health to create well balanced wealth for ourselves as well as social and environmental care for sustainability.” said Mr. Thaweelap.

Bangkok Bank would like to invite customers and interested public to visit the event in the New Normal ways both online via the organizer’s website at www.moneyexpoonline.com or get financial and investment advice as well as apply for services to receive special promotions at the Money Expo 2022 from May 12-15, 2022, at Challenger Hall 2-3, Impact Muang Thong Thani.

 

Bangkok Bank is organizing the “Favorite Dish, Secret Episode” project, inviting Thai people to create content to promote local restaurants. Total prizes for winner in this project are 400,000 baht. The winner from the project will be the first “Little Director” in Thailand. This project aims to offer support to stimulate grassroots economy, attract tourists and help restaurants to recover. Five well-known directors will join the activity to provide intensive training and share their experiences and techniques in making clips and short films.

Bangkok Bank Director and Senior Executive Vice President and Corporate Secretary Kobsak Pootrakool said the Bank organized the “Favorite Dish, Secret Episode” project inviting Thai people to create a short video clip under the theme of “Favorite Dish” to promote local dishes and restaurants in communities nationwide. This is one way to support the local economy and help SME operating restaurants and travel businesses to gain exposure and get more attention in a time of economic recovery after a two-year recession caused by the Covid-19 outbreak.

This project invites students, university students and the general public to form a team of up to 5 persons to create a video clip to present the “Favorite Dish” from great restaurants in their provinces. Video clips can be made using a mobile phone or other devices with a length up to 3 minutes and can be sent to www.จานโปรด.com. The competition is divided into 2 categories: (1) students and university students (2) the general public. The 50 teams that are selected will join the “Little Director” course to learn about filming principles and hear experiences in creating short films from five well-known directors including Mr. Thanit Jitnukul, director of Bang Rajan, Mr. Prachya Pinkaew, director of Tom Yum Goong, Mr. Bandit Thongdee, director of Pumpuang, Mr. Rashane Limtrakul, director of Loke Tung Bai Hai Nai Khon Diew and Mr. Napat Tangsanga, a short film director who has won awards from many competitions.

After the training, all 50 teams will receive an assignment to create a short film under the theme of “Favorite Dish, Secret Episode”. The film will enter a short film competition for 2022 to win Thailand’s first “Little Director” award and the “Golden Bualuang” award as well as prizes totaling 400,000 baht. All films will be presented via the Bank’s online channels to help promote 50 “Favorite Dishes”. Restaurant owners of the selected “Favorite Dishes” locations will also receive “Favorite Dish, Secret Episode” logo to guarantee their deliciousness.

“Story telling is an important way to add value to products and stimulate word of mouth. Thailand has more than 300,000 restaurants run by SME. Only some of them can create a story to promote their products, as their profession focuses on cooking. So, this project is one of the ways we can provide opportunities to customers and the new generation to help create stories on behalf of the restaurant owners and recommend their favorite dishes to others. Meanwhile, this project is an opportunity for those interested in making films, especially students and university students who like this type of work, as they can learn and gain experience from leading Thai directors. It’s a rare opportunity to learn directly from these five well-known directors,” said Mr. Kobsak.

Mr. Thanit Jitnukul, representing the five film directors participating in this project, said he was excited to pass on his knowledge and experience to the new generation and those interested in film directing.

This is the first time that the “Little Director” award will be given in Thailand. He also believed that this project would help spark interest in film directing among a new generation. It will also provide a platform for students to showcase their talent and learn by doing. In addition, this project will offer an opportunity to help those who have a passion for film directing fulfill their dreams.

Mr. Thanit further said that: “Film directors need to be well-versed in a variety of topics. This intensive training course will provide the knowledge for the 50 finalists which covers thinking of new ideas, writing scripts that tell a character's story in a limited time as well as the preparation of the work from casting, location scouting and props, to the process of filming including the basics of photography, camera setup, using light and color to reflect the mood and tone of an image, camera movement, directing, image and lighting control, soundtrack, sound recording, and film editing. In addition, the course will also explain about the management of people, time and budget which is another role that the director needs to understand.”

“I think it's great that Bangkok Bank has come up with this project to help support restaurant owners in different communities. From my experience shooting movies in many places, I often came across restaurants that offer delicious food, some of which are small restaurant that many people don't know about, but they are well known among local people. Those who are interested in participating in the “Favorite Dish, Secret Episode” contest will have to make an introduction clip and pass on the story of your favorite dish to make the restaurants in your community more widely known. I believe that helping each other like this may seem like a small thing, but it will help our country move forward,” said Mr. Thanit.

Interested persons can check more details and conditions, as well as apply to participate in the activity by submitting your video clip to tell the story of your “favorite dish” at www.จานโปรด.com during May 6-20, 2022.

 

Bangkok Bank joins with ShopeePay to enhance digital payment services for users of ShopeePay Wallet to scan and pay using QR PromptPay of all banks. This service supports both online and offline merchants and reinforces their exclusive partnership under the new service “PromptPay Sponsor Bank” (Scan PromptPay). The Bank is ready to tap into the digital payment market and provide solutions for transaction banking as a “trusted partner” for business customers.

Bangkok Bank Executive Vice President Pipat Assamongkol said the Bank has partnered with ShopeePay, a mobile wallet payment service provider on Shopee, as an exclusive partner to provide the “PromptPay Sponsor Bank” service. Customers that use ShopeePay Wallet can scan and pay with the QR PromptPay service of all banks at merchant partners accepting QR PromptPay. This expands the ShopeePay QR Code service which was previously only available for making payments with merchants on the e-Commerce platforms of Shopee or offline stores that have ShopeePay QR Code. Therefore, this new service will bring more convenience to all customers and support spending habits in the New Normal. Moreover, it will give customers peace of mind in making transactions safely from Bangkok Bank’s Digital Payment Solutions.

The service will increase usage of ShopeePay Wallet as it can be used with any online or offline merchants that accept QR PromptPay payments. It will also help increase the transaction volume of business customers as it suits the major shopping trend of digital payments, while at the same time it will expand ShopeePay’s user base.

Currently, Bangkok Bank is a provider of Digital Payment Solutions for both Shopee and ShopeePay, providing various services such as payments on e-commerce platforms via App to App, linking a Bangkok Bank account with bill payments via mobile banking, internet banking and Bualuang ATMs, and top-up ShopeePay Wallet via App to App, top-up for bill payments via mobile banking, internet banking and Bualuang ATMs, as well as funds transfers from ShopeePay Wallets to Bangkok Bank accounts.

“The partnership between Bangkok Bank and Shopee, the leading e-Commerce platform in Thailand, Asia, and Taiwan, is an extension of the Digital Payment Solution service that the Bank provides to Shopee. It signifies Shopee’s trust in the Bank’s technology and potential as a transaction banking services provider with the understanding and ability to meet the needs of each business's target customers. It reflects the Bank’s position as a “trusted partner” who is ready to stand by and grow together with customers and will help to leverage the business ecosystem to suit current business practices. This will create more confidence for business customers both in Thailand and overseas to use the Bank’s services. At present, there are more than a hundred thousand customers in this business group,” said Mr. Pipat.

Mr. Pipat added that the Bank this year plans to be proactive in providing Digital Payment Solutions to support customers in all segments as it can facilitate digital transaction via many channels to suit payment trends and support customers’ business growth.

Supawit Hongamornsin, Director of ShopeePay (Thailand) Co., Ltd. said “this collaboration between ShopeePay and Bangkok Bank arose from a mutual goal to deliver a convenient, secure and cost-effective digital payment experience to customers and entrepreneurs nationwide. We continually develop services and create new features. The “PromptPay Sponsor Bank” service is one of the services which has been developed to serve customers’ lifestyles, so they can scan and pay with the QR PromptPay of all banks at participating online and offline merchants conveniently and seamlessly.”

To enjoy promotions, simply scan PromptPay at ShopeePay or the Shopee application to receive 30% Shopee Coins Cashback, or up to 20 coins from today until May 31, 2022. Coins can be also used as a discount for any scan-to-pay transaction. Simply follow three steps:

1. Find – Look for QR PromptPay signage at participating merchants
2. Scan – Log on to the ShopeePay or Shopee application, then select “Scan&Pay” to scan QR PromptPay and select “Make payment”. The payment will only be made from ShopeePay wallet.
3. Receive – Get up to 30% Shopee Coins Cash back once the payment is successfully made

Bangkok Bank and ShopeePay invite you to scan PromptPay for a new experience of payments at participating online and offline shops nationwide. It is guaranteed to be fast, secure and seamless for every transaction. For more details on how to use the service and receive promotions on scan PromptPay with ShopeePay, please visit https://shopee.co.th/m/PromptpayxShopeePay

 

Bangkok Bank continues its cooperation with Hua Seng Heng to penetrate the younger market by introducing gold savings via the GOLD NOW app that allows direct debit payments from Bangkok Bank savings accounts. Just select the “OM NOW” feature to save gold with a minimum investment of only 1,000 baht. The fees for all transactions are waived from April 27 - October 31, 2022.

Bangkok Bank Director and Senior Executive Vice President Chansak Fuangfu said that the Bank has set its growth strategy for 2022 with a focus on continuously offering financial services to help build and manage wealth for all groups of customers. In addition, the Bank also introduces new investment models that are in line with the market direction and the interest of younger generations who are more interested in investment and ready to learn about various types of investments that will increase their opportunity to generate attractive returns at the appropriate level of risk. Investing in gold is another form of investment that these target customers are increasingly interested in.

Bangkok Bank has continued to work with Hua Seng Heng, a leader in the gold market, to develop financial services that meet the interest of the young generations in online gold investment and saving. Customers can easily buy, sell and save gold on a real time basis. Customers who buy gold can pay and have gold in their portfolio immediately. Those who sell gold will also receive money instantly. Customers can invest in gold via the “GOLD NOW” app starting from 5 baht of gold and no collateral is required. The minimum investment via the “OM NOW” feature is only 1,000 baht.  The highlight of the service is convenience and speed. Customers can open an investment account through the facial recognition system and start buying, selling and saving gold immediately. In addition, customers can also choose to receive real gold bars. Customers can also make transactions for gold buying and selling via digital channels anytime anywhere by linking gold buying  with their Bangkok Bank account. In addition, new customers can also open e-Savings accounts via Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking as well.

In a special promotion for those who invest in gold via the “GOLD NOW” application by linking it with their Bangkok Bank account, the fees for direct debit payment for gold are waived from April 27 - October 31, 2022.

“The Bank is committed to providing quality financial services to meet the needs of all customer groups including the young generation which the Bank wants to build relationships with as a trusted partner who stands ready to provide continuous financial services as well as offer a variety of investment options to increase their wealth. The Bank collaborates well with Hua Seng Heng which is a longstanding business partner over many years. With the GOLD NOW service, customers will receive an enhanced financial and investment experience that serves as an alternative way to grow their wealth” said Mr. Chansak.

Bangkok Bank and Hua Seng Heng have collaborated over the years to develop gold investment products and services. In 2020, Bangkok Bank and Hua Seng Heng co-developed the Hua Seng Heng USD Gold Trade platform which enables customers to trade 99.99 purity gold bars in USD via the Bangkok Bank Foreign Currency Deposit account for the first time in Thailand. The trade will use the spot gold price to reduce costs and risks from fluctuations in the baht as no currency conversion is required for every trade. This provides greater value and convenience for the investors.

Hua Seng Heng Chief Executive Officer Tanarat Pasawongse said “With the GOLD NOW application, customers can access gold trading more conveniently anywhere in the country and don’t need to queue up like in the past, making it a good choice to cope with gold price fluctuations. The app is easy to use and allows for fast trading which enables customers to receive cash instantly once they sell their gold. The new OM NOW feature has been well received and has helped boost the GOLD NOW app which has increased the gold selling and buying volume. To increase convenience for customers, we worked with Bangkok Bank to provide a gold investment alternative as a safe haven asset to cope with global uncertainties and volatility”.

Key features of the GOLD NOW application include:

• Apply to be a member and start the portfolio easily and instantly via the GOLD NOW application
• Trading of 96.5-percent gold purity (starting at 5-baht weight) can be made every day, 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. on Monday-Friday, and 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday-Sunday
• Real-time gold trading (customers buying gold will get gold in their portfolios immediately after making payment, while those selling gold will get the money instantly)
• Customers can set the desired price for gold they intend to purchase or sell
• No collateral required for submitting an instruction
• Customers can select and set the gold weight for selling gold in their portfolios
• Once customers have saved gold to the targeted weight, they can exchange it for gold products from any Hua Seng Heng branch

The latest feature added to the GOLD NOW application to reach a wider group of customers is OM NOW which allows customers to start their investments in gold with savings of only 1,000 baht. Interested customers can invest in gold bars via the GOLD NOW application, which is available for download at the App Store and Play Store. This collaboration with Bangkok Bank in facilitating the gold trade has enhanced online gold trading services and experiences.

Customers can start trading gold via GOLD NOW today, by simply linking it with their Bangkok Bank account to make auto-direct debit or open an e-Savings account via the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking app. For more information, please call Bualuang Phone 1333 or 0 2645 5555

 

Bangkok Bank President Chartsiri Sophonpanich led a team of Bank executives and staff to donate blood to emphasize the Bank’s status as a trusted partner and to continue its mission to give back to society. Bangkok Bank, in collaboration with the National Blood Center of the Thai Red Cross Society, organized a mobile blood donation unit for the first quarter of 2022 at the Silom Head Office. The event collected 176 units of blood or 70,400 cc, enough to save 528 lives.

The Bank’s quarterly mobile blood donation has been organized for 26 consecutive years and over this period collected a total of over 16 million cc of blood, which is enough to save more than 130,000 lives. The Bank’s executives and staff have regularly joined the activity.

In the first quarter of 2022, the Thai economy expanded at a slower pace due to the spread of the Covid-19 Omicron variant with another spike of new infections. The government responded by curbing travel entry, resulting in the slow recovery of international tourism. Meanwhile, the war between Russia and Ukraine pushed up global oil and energy prices as well as the cost of some commodities. As a result, inflation rates in many countries, including Thailand, have increased causing a slowdown in domestic private consumption. Additionally, central banks of some countries increased policy rates, which have impacted economic growth and global commerce. Consequently, the Thai export sector for the first 2 months of 2022 grew only 12.2 percent compared with 22.1 percent in the previous quarter. Going forward, the volatility of financial markets and world economy will be important factors to closely monitor.

The recovery of Thailand’s economy is expected to be slow and uneven. Some businesses including exports have recovered back to where they were prior to the Covid-19 crisis while tourism-related sectors have been recovering more slowly. Bangkok Bank continues to support customers in each sector in accordance with their needs by providing short-term liquidity to help businesses stay afloat and offer working capital when their businesses recover. With the commitment to be a trusted partner and reliable close friend, the Bank focuses on sharing knowledge and expertise to support customers to achieve sustainable growth by adjusting business model in line with changing market trends or enhancing the opportunities for international business expansion. At the same time, the Bank places importance on prudent risk management, together with maintaining its financial stability, liquidity and capital positions.

Bangkok Bank and its subsidiaries increased net profit by 2.8 percent in the first quarter

The Bank and its subsidiaries reported a net profit of Baht 7,118 million, an increase of 2.8 percent from the first quarter of 2021. Net interest income rose by 10.4 percent contributed from loan growth, while the net interest margin stood at 2.11 percent. Non-interest income declined by 16.1 percent primarily from lower gains on mark to market of financial assets in line with the market environment, and lower net fees and service income from credit card and bancassurance and mutual funds. Operating expenses decreased by 1.6 percent, resulting in a cost to income ratio of 49.8 percent. The Bank set aside expected credit loss of Baht 6,489 million.

Bangkok Bank maintains a healthy financial position, high liquidity and capital positions under its prudent management approach

At the end of March 2022, the Bank’s total loans amounted to Baht 2,587,534 million, the same level as the end of December 2021. There was a net increase in loans to large corporate customers while loans made through the Bank’s international network decreased. The non-performing loan to total loans ratio was 3.3 percent. The Bank’s prudent management approach achieved a healthy increase in the allowance for expected credit losses to non-performing loans ratio to 229.0 percent.

As of March 31, 2022, the Bank’s deposits amounted to Baht 3,194,460 million, an increase of 1.2 percent from the end of December 2021, reflecting customers’ desire to maintain their highly liquid assets during a time of uncertainty. The loan to deposit ratio was 81.0 percent. Meanwhile, the total capital adequacy ratio, Tier 1 capital adequacy ratio and Common Equity Tier 1 capital adequacy ratio of the Bank and its subsidiaries were 19.5 percent, 16.0 percent and 15.2 percent respectively, comfortably above the Bank of Thailand’s minimum capital requirements.

 

Bangkok Bank Director and Executive Vice President Thaweelap Rittapirom and other executives and staff held recreational activities and provided necessities for the Covid-19 situation for injured veterans, police officers and volunteers who have made sacrifices for the nation. The event has been held for 33rd consecutive year and is in tribute to Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on the auspicious occasion of HRH’s birthday on April 2. Bangkok Bank executives and staff were welcomed by Deputy Director - General of the War Veterans Organization of Thailand Lieutenant General Chitiphat Boonchuai and Veterans General Hospital executives at the Veterans General Hospital Vibhavadi Rangsit.

 

Bangkok Bank President Chartsiri Sophonpanich joins volunteers to donate blood in the BBL x Blood Challenge organized by Personal Banking in collaboration with the National Blood Center of the Thai Red Cross Society. The event, which recently took place at the Silom Head Office, featured a mobile blood donation unit for the Bank’s executives and staff to donate their blood. It collected 149 units of blood or 59,600 cc, enough to save 447 lives.

As a “trusted partner” that is ready to stand beside Thai people during the crisis, the Bank has arranged blood donations on a quarterly basis using the mobile blood donation unit for 26 consecutive years, which is enough to save more than 138,495 lives thanks to great cooperation from volunteers and bank staff including executives who express themselves as “givers” by regularly participating in blood donations to give back to society.

Bangkok Bank has joined with the National Blood Center of the Thai Red Cross Society for more than 26 consecutive years and collected 16 million cc. of blood with its mobile blood donation units at the Silom Head Office and the Rama 3 building which is enough to save more than 138,495 lives. The Bank encourages both staff and general public to give blood as part of its CSR activities as it moves towards sustainable development. This emphasizes its commitment to be a “trusted partner” that stands beside and faces crises together with the Thai people.

Bangkok Bank Director and Executive Vice President Thaweelap Rittapirom said Bangkok Bank and the National Blood Center of the Thai Red Cross Society have organized blood donations at the Silom Head Office and the Rama 3 building for more than 26 consecutive years. The mobile blood donation unit has been organized every quarter since 1996 and over this period collected a total of 46,165 units of blood or 16,157,750 cc. which is enough to save more than 138,495 lives. In the most recent blood donation drive in the first quarter of 2022, the Bank obtained 393 units of blood or 157,200 cc., enough to save more than 1,179 lives.

Over the past four years (2017-2020) an average of 1,800 units per year, or 630,000 cc., has been collected at the mobile blood donation unit organized at the Bank. The blood has helped ease blood shortages, especially during the Covid-19 outbreak which has led to a rising number of patients in the past three years. Ahead of the upcoming long holiday for the Songkran festival and associated travel the Thai Red Cross Society needs to increase blood reserves to cope with higher levels of emergency cases. In addition to supporting the Thai Red Cross Society in obtaining blood, the Bank also educates and helps donors including the Bank’s executives, staff and general public to prepare themselves well before donating blood.

“The Bank’s quarterly mobile blood donation drive over the past 26 years has achieved great cooperation from volunteers and bank personnel including high-level executives who express themselves as “givers” by participating in blood donations regularly to give back to society. This is another social responsibility mission that the Bank pays attention to with its commitment to contribute to sustainable development. The Bank believes that people are most important for the further development of society in all dimensions. This activity also reflects the Bank’s mission to be a “trusted partner”, ready to stand beside customers and Thai society in every situation, especially during a crisis.”

Mr. Thaweelap added that in addition to using the space within the Bank to set up a mobile blood donation unit, the Bank has continued to cooperate with the National Blood Center of the Thai Red Cross Society, to promote blood donations and it acts as a channel for donations to support the operations of the National Blood Center, Thai Red Cross Society, especially e-donations via Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking.

The next blood donation activity by Bangkok Bank, together with the National Blood Center of the Thai Red Cross Society, will be on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, at Bangkok Bank Head Office, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and at Rama 3 Building from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

 

Bangkok Bank Executive Vice Presidents Prassanee Ouiyamaphan and Pornpimon Trongtiengdham joined AIA Company Limited Chief Strategic Bancassurance Alliance Officer Alisa Simaroj and Chief Strategy and Digital Officer Dr. Christian Roland to launch “Be Together For You”, a life and health insurance policy designed to serve personalized, individual needs. It is easy to buy via the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking app with the product offering high coverage and affordable premiums. Each insurance package is tailored for each customer with coverage for life, accidents, daily compensation, critical illnesses and total permanent disability. Customers will receive a special promotion of free protection against Covid-19 vaccine side-effects when purchasing the “Be Together For You” policy from March 22 - June 30, 2022.

Customers who receive the online offer of the “Be Together For You” insurance can purchase the policy via the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking app from today. For more information, please call Bualuang Phone 1333 or contact AIA Call Center 0 2353 8855, every day from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

 

Bangkok Bank sells life insurance online by joining AIA Thailand to launch “Be Together For You” – life and health insurance designed to serve personalized, individual needs. It is easy to buy via the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking app with the product offering high coverage and affordable premiums. Each insurance package is tailored for each customer with coverage for life, accidents, daily compensation, critical illnesses and total permanent disability.

Bangkok Bank Executive Vice President Prassanee Ouiyamaphan said that the Bank continues to develop the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking app to be a platform that is friendly, accessible and understanding of users under the “Same, same but different because we understand you better” concept. Recently, the Bank joined AIA Thailand to launch the “Be Together For You” online insurance which focuses on studying and understanding the needs of each group of customers to be able to offer life insurance products in the form and sum assured that are suitable for the needs of each individual customer while providing greater convenience of purchasing life insurance quickly without having to go to the branch.

“The young generation is familiar with online shopping and wants greater convenience, so this group of customers does not like using the service at the branch. Therefore, we have integrated the purchase of insurance into our mobile banking service in line with the current trends, with the suitable form of coverage that meets the needs of customers in each age group. Customers can make purchase decisions and transactions with affordable premiums conveniently. At the same time, if customers have questions or problems in making the transaction, they can press the menu on the mobile banking screen to call Bualuang Phone staff immediately.

“Aside from being a channel for users to conveniently purchase insurance online, the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking app has continually added new features to the platform including various loan products such as home loans, business loans for SME as well as applying for or freezing credit cards by yourself. The aim is to expand the user base to new target groups that are familiar with making transactions via digital channels such as e-commerce business and SME business owners while supporting or partnering with lifestyle platforms that the new generation is interested in, such as online games. It is expected that mobile banking users of the Bank will increase to 14 million by the end of this year. Currently, there are approximately 11 million active users out of a total of 17 million deposit accounts,” said Mrs. Prassanee.

Bangkok Bank Executive Vice President Pornpimon Trongtiengdham said that understanding the needs of target customers is the priority at Bangkok Bank. Therefore, the Bank has offered the distinctive feature of the “Be Together For You” life insurance service by carefully analyzing the needs of each target customer group. At the same time, customers in each group tend to require different types of life insurance and health coverage. It can be said that “Be Together For You” is a product that serves personalized, individual needs. The key is to design a simple, hassle-free purchase process, and once purchased, you will receive immediate protection.

The target group of the “Be Together For You” online life insurance is people aged between 25-55 years old. Each age group will be offered different insurance packages and premiums to suit their needs that differ by each stage of life with communication messages via the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking app that are tailored to align with the interests and concerns of each customer group. This emphasizes the Bank’s position as a trusted partner who understands and knows its customers and can offer financial service that matches their needs.

AIA Company Limited Chief Strategic Bancassurance Alliance Officer Alisa Simaroj said “Be Together For You” was developed in collaboration with Bangkok Bank to address the digital lifestyle of customers. The “Be Together For You” products consist of a life insurance policy issued up to age 80 (no dividend) and a rider with benefit in case of death from accident (ADB). The product will be customized to best suit customers with extra protection from various insurance riders ranging from the AIA CI Plus rider, the AIA HB Extra rider and the AIA TPD rider.

“The offer of an AIA life insurance product via the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking application facilitates customers to access health and life insurance products more easily and conveniently which meets changing customer behavior. By doing this, customers can study product information and make an informed decision by themselves.”

AIA Thailand Company Limited Chief Strategy and Digital Officer Dr. Christian Roland said, “the online offer of the “Be Together For You” insurance by AIA and Bangkok Bank reinforces AIA’s leadership position in the insurance industry, as AIA is committed to developing digital technology and Topological Data Analysis to create the most benefits for customers in Thailand. Customers can truly enjoy life insurance products and services tailored to their needs. We will continue to develop digital and technological innovation to deliver the best customer experience in keeping with our commitment of Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.”

To mark the launch of this new product, Bangkok Bank is giving away free Covid-19 vaccine insurance for customers who receive the online offer and purchase the “Be Together For You” insurance from March 22 - June 30, 2022.

Customers who receive the online offer of the “Be Together For You” insurance can purchase the policy via the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking app from today. For more information, please call Bualuang Phone 1333 or contact AIA Call Center 0 2353 8855, every day from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

 

Bangkok Bank Senior Executive Vice President Siridej Aungudomsin congratulated Khaolaor Laboratories Co., Ltd. Managing Director Dr. Watcharapong Pongboriboon, Siam Hands Co., Ltd. Managing Director Dr. Amara Puangchompoo and 4Care Co., Ltd. Managing Director Miss Bhiramon Chuprapawan upon winning the Good Governance Award for 2022, the Good Governance Award for 2020 and the Good Governance Award for best employee management practices for 2020, respectively. The Good Governance Award Ceremony was established by four major institutions, namely the Puey Ungpakorn Foundation, the Bank of Thailand, the Institute for Small and Medium Enterprise Development, and the Thai Bankers’ Association to honor SME that lead good governance businesses to success with stability and sustainability. Bangkok Bank has a record of nominating customers for the award resulting in wins for 7 consecutive years, marking a new winning record. This emphasizes the Bank’s position as a trusted partner who supports its customers’ businesses to grow sustainably together.

Bangkok Bank takes great pride in announcing that three of its SME customers won the Good Governance Award for 2020 and 2022 for the 7th consecutive year, a new record for the Bank and further evidence that Bank continues to be a trusted partner in supporting customers’ businesses to grow sustainably together. Executives from three wining SME namely Khaolaor Laboratories, Siam Hands and 4Care, share tips about business management with good governance, producing good products, and taking good care of customers, employees and society in the same way that they treat their families.

Bangkok Bank Senior Executive Vice President Siridej Aungudomsin said the Bank has nominated SME customers, which focus on applying good governance in their business operations, for the Good Governance Award. Recently, the Bank’s three SMEs customers have won this award, namely Khaolaor Laboratories, which won the Good Governance Award for 2022, Siam Hands, which won the Good Governance Award for 2020, and 4Care, which won the Good Governance Award for best employee management practices for 2020.

The Annual Good Governance Award Ceremony was established by four major institutions, namely the Puey Ungpakorn Foundation, the Bank of Thailand, the Institute for Small and Medium Enterprise Development, and the Thai Bankers’ Association. Each year members of the Thai Bankers’ Association nominate their customers, who conduct their businesses with an eye to the management of employees, customers, and society and environment, for the Good Governance Award. Bangkok Bank regularly nominates its customers and is happy to see the resulting wins.

“The Bank focuses on sustainable business conduct under the ESG (Environment, Social, Governance) concept. It was great to see that the Bank’s customers who pay attention to these aspects have seen positive business growth. The Bank, as a trusted partner, will continue to encourage more customers to operate their businesses with good governance principles to drive businesses and society towards sustainable growth,” said Mr. Siridej.

Dr. Watcharapong Pongboriboon, Managing Director of Khaolaor Laboratories Co., Ltd., a manufacturer and distributor of medicine and health products made from Thai herbs called “Khaolaor”, said the company operates its business with the principles of accuracy and justice, without exploiting others under a commitment to respect Thai wisdom and using science and innovation to bring good things to society. The company operates under the concept of Optimizing Profit, rather than Maximizing Profit, so it focuses on creating mutual benefits for all stakeholders, including customers, employees, suppliers, creditors, the surrounding communities and society. The company puts a priority on patients’ health and affordable medicine. Despite shortfalls, the supply of Andrographis paniculate, a popular medicinal herb, the company continued producing the medicine at its full capacity and sold it in the same price even though the company had higher raw material costs. The company maintained its production standard and quality of raw material as it gave top priority to patients’ health. That’s why the company has gained the trust and support of customers in the long-term while still generating profit and creating sustainable growth.

“The company places great emphasis on operating its business with honesty to customers, employees, society, and especially its products, which are certified by GMP, ISO or use a distilling process that may result in higher costs but helps increase confidence in the quality of Khaolaor products. At the same time, the company takes good care of its 120 employees in the same way it takes care of family members, ensuring that they have a good quality of life. The company listens to employees’ issues and helps them solve their debt problems without charging any interest. The company also operates its business without harming the environment, emitting no air pollution or wastewater, so it delivers good business value in all aspects. The Bank understands Khaolaor’s business conduct and has been supportive in its ethical business practices,” said Dr. Watcharapong.

Dr. Amara Puangchompoo, Managing Director of Siam Hands Co., Ltd., the manufacturer and distributor of the Tangmo clothing brand, said that for more than 30 years, the company has had a vision to operate the business while paying attention to consumers and employees, while at the same time taking care of the environment and society. They strive to make employees feel like it is their second home with the belief that happy mind will bring good results, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. They ensure that their business does not cause nuisance to the residential communities surrounding the factory and has hired experts to take care of dust management, wastewater management and noise control. In addition, they have organized various special projects to provide assistance and give back to the community, such as Ban Huai Tom Handicraft Center Project, Li District, Lamphun Province, and the Reconciliation Project for villagers of Bokor, Su-ngai Padi District Narathiwat Province.

“The Tangmo brand attaches great importance to the quality of every product which is done with meticulous attention to detail to deliver to customers around the world. The company has tried to instill in its employees the idea that they are producing clothes for their parents to wear and has always encouraged its salespeople to communicate with customers in the store to bring their opinions to further develop the design in order to meet the needs of customers. Our business not only takes care of our employees and their families, but also creates job opportunities for small traders and helps them pay off their debts and have a better life. The Tangmo brand has received continuous assistance and support from Bangkok Bank since the company's inception,” said Dr. Amara.

Ms. Bhiramon Chuprapawan, Managing Director of 4Care Co., Ltd., the manufacture and distributor of Tasty Fit coconut cream alternative and non-dairy cooking cream; Balance cereal drink, organic rice milk, organic rice crackers, and dark chocolate with organic cacao drink; and Medira probiotic plus dietary supplement, said that the company focuses on operating its business in accordance with good governance principles since day one of its operation until today when the company is entering its 19th year of operation. The company is committed to forwarding its concept and belief in working with integrity to customers, business partners and employees through its determination to develop innovative, healthy and delicious products by focusing on consumer demand. The company buys raw materials directly from farmers and offers higher prices than the market. In addition, the company takes care of over 70 employees as if they were family members to make them happy and help them have good quality of life. Especially during the COVID-19 outbreak, the company has paid attention to hygiene to prevent infection among employees and provides assistance in terms of well-being and vaccination for all employees.

“The company takes care of all employees like family both during and outside of work hours. The company provides good welfare to employees at all levels equally and fairly including taking care of their financial matters, helping them to solve debt problems, cultivating the discipline of saving as well as teaching them to know how to invest in order to plan for the future. If the employees are in debt, they will not be able to produce good work. However, if they are happy, they will pass on good things to customers and consumers. Bangkok Bank is our good partner who has always supported us to adhere to good governance and be ready to give assistance, such as extending a credit line in case we need additional capital to expand the business and providing information on exchange rates in case of trade with foreign countries. In addition, the Bank also provides marketing support and helps promote our businesses and products while making customers and consumers aware of our intention to deliver good things to society.”

Bangkok Bank approved that the dividend payment for the operating results of the year 2021 be paid at the rate of 3.50 baht per ordinary share and resolved to convene the 29th annual ordinary meeting of shareholders on April 12, 2022.

Bangkok Bank President, Chartsiri Sophonpanich said the meeting of the Board of Directors of Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited No.2/2022 held on February 24, 2022, at which the Board had adopted the following resolutions. Approved that the dividend payment for the operating results of the year 2021, which dividend was derived from retained earnings, be paid at the rate of 3.50 baht per ordinary share, totaling 6,680,950,129.00 baht, a part of which had been paid as interim dividend at the rate of 1.00 baht per ordinary share on September 23, 2021; that the remaining amount be paid on May 12, 2022 at the rate of 2.50 baht per ordinary share; and that with the record date for determining the shareholders who have the right to receive the dividend payment be April 22, 2022.

And resolved to convene the 29th Annual Ordinary Meeting of Shareholders on April 12, 2022, starting at 15.00 hrs. at the Bangkok Bank Building, 333 Silom Road, Silom Sub-district, Bangrak District, Bangkok.

 

Bangkok Bank Senior Vice President, Premises Department, Miss Krongthong Karunyanaratorn, Vice President, Public Relations Department, Mr. Suwit Indrachalerm, together with executives and staff, congratulated and presented couples gifts at the Bang Rak district office marriage registration event on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2022 under the theme of “Lover New Normal @ Bang Rak 2022”. The Bank has supported this activity for six consecutive years to encourage people to see the importance of proper marriage registration. Registration enables the beginning of a strong and stable family life as family is the foundational unit of society that shapes human and society development. This event was also honored by Bang Rak District Director, Mrs. Passara Nateetong, who congratulated couples at the district office.

 

Bangkok Bank Director and Executive Vice President Thaweelap Rittapirom took a photo with Minister of Tourism and Sports Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Yuthasak Supasorn, representatives from government agencies and the private sector together with national athletes. Bangkok Bank supported the “Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok 2021” as an official sponsor for the quarter marathon (mini marathon), a 10-kilometer distance, called “Bangkok Bank 10K”. The Bank has been supporting this event since the first year it was held in 2018.

Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok 2021 was held under international standards and good public health management. It will benefit tourism and enhance Thailand’s image and will help to restore confidence in Thailand. The event also helps attract athletes and tourists to Thailand which helps to stimulate tourism and restore the economy, as well as helping to promote healthy activities among Thai people.

 

Bangkok Bank and Pictet Group, a Geneva-based global wealth and asset manager, have entered a strategic alliance to provide enhanced wealth management services with Pictet Group acting as an investment advisor for BBL Asset Management and Bangkok Capital Asset Management, a subsidiary in Bangkok Bank Group.

Bualuang Exclusive together with Pictet Wealth Management, BBL Asset Management, Bangkok Capital Asset Management and Bualuang Securities will organize the “Economic and Investment Outlook 2022: Global Economics Outlook and Thai Investment Strategic Insights” for Bualuang Exclusive customers, Bangkok Bank customers and customers of Bangkok Bank Group’s companies. Pictet Wealth Management CIO Asia, Global Strategist & Head of CIO Office, Mr. Alexandre Tavazzi will present the “Global Economics Outlook” and discuss economic trends and investment in global assets. Bangkok Bank Senior Executive Vice President Dr. Kobsak Pootrakool will cover the “Thailand Economic and Investment Outlook”.

The presentations will be followed by a panel discussion on “Portfolio Management Strategies and Thematic Investments” to provide recommendations on growing wealth and generating returns. The expert panel will comprise BBL Asset Management CEO Mr. Peerapong Jirasevijinda, Bangkok Capital Asset Management CIO Dr. Thanavut Pornrojanangkul, and Bualuang Securities Managing Director, Non-Institutional Broking Group, Mr. Chaiyaporn Nompitakcharoen with Ms. Cholaphansa Narula as the moderator.

The webinar will be held on Friday, February 11, 2022, from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bangkok Bank customers and members of the public can view the event on the Bangkok Bank Live YouTube channel.

 

Bangkok Bank, led by Executive Vice President Pochanee Kongkalai and AVP, Central Region 1 Manager Nuchjaree Poompattarapong, welcomed President of Money Expo Santi Viriyarangsarit and Co-President of the event Pakanee Viriyarangsarit, who presided over Bangkok Bank's booth opening at the Money Expo Rayong 2021. The Bank’s booth was held under the concept of “Reconnect with friends, let’s build wealth for the future” and offered financial and investment products and services as well as new technology trends for wealth management, which can be further developed for a wider group of customers. Highlight promotions were also offered to people in Rayong and Eastern Thailand under strict safety measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 to maintain safety standards for both customers and employees.

The Bank would like to invite customers and the general public to attend this event in the New Normal style, via the organizer's website at www.moneyexpoonline.com or visit Bangkok Bank’s physical booth to obtain financial and investment advice as well as apply for services and receive special promotions during the Money Expo Rayong 2021 which will be held between January 28-30, 2022, at Central Plaza Rayong, the 1st floor.