Year-End Economic Boost: Funding Societies Accelerates Lending to Four Key Business Sectors to Help SMEs Seize Opportunities During the Peak Season

The period from year-end through early year is a critical time for the Thai economy, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which must prepare to navigate both market volatility and business opportunities arising from major holidays—including tourism, sales promotions, and various events that help stimulate domestic spending and attract a steady flow of international tourists

This year, the overall number of international tourists visiting Thailand has declined somewhat due to several factors, including the appreciation of the baht, which has made travel costs in Thailand appear higher; weak economic growth in key source markets; and geopolitical uncertainty in the region—a trend shared by many Asian countries currently facing similar pressures

According to a report by Reuters, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports revealed that from January 1 to September 14, B.E. 2568, Thailand welcomed a total of approximately 23 million international tourists, a decrease of 7.08 percent compared to the same period last year* Meanwhile, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates that the total number of visitors for the year may not exceed 35 million**

Although the number of international tourists has slowed, the year-end holiday season and the tourism season remain key drivers of the Thai economy. Thailand continues to have strengths in cultural diversity, tourism resources, and the capacity to host international events. These factors help mitigate the impact of the global economy and preserve Thailand’s appeal as a popular destination If we can effectively channel tourist interest into domestic spending, it will create ongoing opportunities for SMEs across the entire economic value chain

Funding Societies, one of the largest digital financial platforms for SMEs in Southeast Asia and a major non-bank financial services provider in Thailand, is ramping up lending to support SME liquidity from Q4 of 2568 through early 2569 The company announced a plan to accelerate liquidity support for SMEs to drive growth and manage working capital effectively during the final quarter of 2568 and into early 2569. The initiative focuses on supporting four key business sectors with high credit demand during the peak season: the events industry, retail wholesale, and food and beverage (F&B) businesses. This initiative is designed to help business owners confidently plan their finances in advance and prepare for demand that is expected to increase by approximately 30% compared to normal levels

Mr. Phumikorn Suriyasirawan, Head of Business Development at Funding Societies Thailand, said, “The period from late year through early year is considered the golden season for SMEs. Having sufficient liquidity is essential for stocking goods, procuring raw materials, marketing, or expanding services to capitalize on the business opportunities that arise during this time.”
Loans disbursed directly to SMEs act as a catalyst for the circular economy, impacting not only small business owners but also helping to stimulate the economy and supply chains at multiple levels. SMEs with sufficient working capital can increase their orders for raw materials and goods, providing manufacturers and suppliers with a steady stream of orders. At the same time, supporting service industries—such as logistics, transportation, marketing, and event planning—also benefit from this expansion
This cycle of capital flow generates a “multi-layered economic multiplier effect,” creating income and employment for communities and fostering strong and sustainable growth in the Thai economy.

The critical role of non-bank lenders in a climate where financial institutions are cautious about extending credit. Amid a situation where major financial institutions are tightening their lending standards, the entry of non-bank financial service providers—particularly in the form of trade finance (Trade Finance), has played a crucial role in helping businesses maintain continuity and respond to new opportunities in a timely manner. These loans offer flexible terms, rapid approval, and no collateral requirements, covering both working capital financing from trade receivables (Invoice Financing), which helps address long payment cycles purchase order financing, which supports timely payments to suppliers, and short-term business loans for companies looking to expand their operations or invest in fixed assets

“Access to appropriate and timely capital is a key factor enabling SME entrepreneurs to achieve sustainable growth and truly helps strengthen the Thai economy from the ground up,” Mr. Phumikorn added
Currently, Funding Societies provides short-term and trade financing to SMEs across five countries: Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam, with a cumulative total loan disbursement exceeding 160,000 million baht. Entrepreneurs looking to explore financing options to boost liquidity and expand their businesses can find more details at www.fundingsocieties.co.th