Thai stock exchange to introduce dual-class shares to attract listings

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) is moving forward with plans to introduce a dual-class share structure, a move designed to make the bourse more attractive to potential listing candidates and strengthen its market position.

The dual-class system would allow companies to maintain founder control while accessing public capital, a structure increasingly common among major exchanges across Asia. The change is expected to broaden the pool of eligible companies seeking to list on the Thai bourse, particularly technology and growth-stage firms where founder-led ownership remains valued by investors.

The exchange's initiative reflects regional competition among Southeast Asian bourses to capture high-value listings. Similar structures have been adopted by other major exchanges seeking to retain domestic companies and attract cross-border capital.

Implementation of the new framework is scheduled for 2027, allowing the SET sufficient time to develop regulatory guidelines and prepare market infrastructure. Regulatory approval and stakeholder consultation will be required before the system becomes operational.

The proposal forms part of a broader strategy by Thai authorities to deepen capital markets development and position the kingdom as a financial hub in Southeast Asia.