In January 2026, the SET Index rose by 5.2% to close at 1,325.62 points, with an average daily trading value of 46,496 million THB, marking a 19.2% increase year-on-year. Foreign investors were notably active, contributing a net purchase of 4,345 million THB, leading to a total of 10,547 million THB over two months, while the investor composition showed foreign investors at 53.37%.
The IMF upgraded its global growth forecast to 3.3%, propelled by advancements in AI and government stimulus, amidst a stable U.S. interest rate of 3.50–3.75%. No new companies listed on SET or mai, but 2025 recorded the highest dividends and share buybacks in history, with high dividend yield stocks achieving a total return of 11.32%.
1. Market Overview
- Date: January 2026
- SET Index: Closed at 1,325.62 points, a 5.2% increase compared to the end of 2025, aligning with trends in major regional markets .
- Average Daily Trading Value: 46,496 million THB, up 19.2% year-on-year .
2. Key Statistics
- Foreign Investment: Net foreign purchases amounted to 4,345 million THB, marking a total of 10,547 million THB over two consecutive months of net buying, the first since July 2023 .
- Investor Composition:
- Foreign Investors: 53.37%
- Domestic Retail Investors: 29.63%
- Domestic Institutional Investors: 10.56%
- Securities Firms: 6.44% .
3. Economic Trends
- Global Economic Outlook: The IMF revised its global growth forecast for 2026 to 3.3% from 3.1%, driven by AI advancements and government stimulus policies .
- Interest Rates: The Federal Reserve maintained interest rates at 3.50–3.75%, with mixed opinions among board members regarding future rate cuts .
4. Sector Performance
- Top Performing Sectors: Technology, industrial goods, and resources outperformed the SET Index compared to the end of 2025 .
- No New Listings: No new companies registered for trading on SET or mai during January .
5. Market Reactions
- Geopolitical Concerns: Commodities rallied due to geopolitical tensions, while global markets experienced volatility following news of a potential new Fed chair appointed by Trump, which raised concerns about future monetary policy .
- Upcoming Events: A significant event is the Thai general election on February 8, 2026, historically correlated with positive returns for the SET Index in the month before and after elections .
6. Dividend and Share Buyback Trends
- Record Payouts: 2025 saw the highest recorded dividends and share buybacks in history, with high dividend yield stocks (SETHD) achieving a total return of 11.32% .
This summary encapsulates the essential aspects of the stock market and economic conditions in January 2026, highlighting significant trends, investor behaviors, and forecasts impacting the market.
Source : Presentation summarizing the stock market situation in January 2026
