Briefs

Government Savings Bank's newly appointed president, Worawit Chailimpamontri, is expected to start his new job in January with a monthly salary of Bt650,000.
Pannee Stavarodom, chairman of the bank, said that figure could be raised as high as Bt850,000, exclusive of bonuses and other benefits. The remuneration package will be submitted for the Finance Ministry's approval.
Worawit is required to resign as president of Government Housing Bank before starting the new job.
  Higher wages to boost SET Index
Kasikorn Securities foresees the SET Index touching 1,500 points next year, as listed companies are expected to show 15-per-cent earnings growth on the back of robust domestic consumption.
Kavee Chukitkasem, assistant managing director, said the higher minimum wage would boost domestic consumption, which has encouraged several consumer-product businesses and property developers to expand into the provinces.
  Suppliers, wholesalers cooperate
At least 10 suppliers and five wholesalers will initially join a new cooperative, designed to enhance their bargaining power and survival prospects against modern-trade operators ahead of the Asean Economic Community’s implementation.
Somchai Pornratanacharoen, president of the Wholesale and Retail Association, said suppliers would make products for small shops while wholesalers and retailers would choose potential products from factories. Together, they will reduce dependence on modern trade outlets, which have squeezed their margins in return for wider market exposure.
The new business model will be kicked off in January. The association covers 120 members. – The Nation