Archive
August 13, 2026
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SpaceX AI released Grok 4.6, an upgraded AI model with improved capability for handling long-running and complex commands compared to Grok 4.5. Performance benchmarks show competitive scores with OpenAI's GPT-5.6 Sol on the Artificial Analysis Intelligence Index, though trailing Anthropic's Claude 5 Max in some categories. Available now via Cursor, Grok Build, and API partners at $2-6 per 1M tokens. Relevant for Thai SMEs adopting AI APIs for automation and development workflows.
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DeepSeek has raised API pricing significantly following the V4 Pro launch: input/output costs increased 3–4.6x, while cache pricing jumped 12x (from $0.003625 to $0.044 per million tokens). The increases take effect August 16, though off-peak discounts (50% off outside 8–11 AM and 1–5 PM Thailand time) provide some relief. This ends DeepSeek's aggressive pricing strategy and signals the market transition from disruption to profitability.
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Twitch announced it will use streamer video content to train Amazon's generative AI models by default, requiring creators to manually opt-out via Security and Privacy settings. The decision drew backlash in live comments, with Twitch's product lead Mike Minton candidly admitting the opt-out model was chosen because an opt-in approach would generate insufficient participation. This affects all Thailand-based streamers and content creators on the platform.
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Thailand's Sugar Cane and Sugar Fund board approved FY2570 budget priorities emphasizing cost efficiency and technology adoption. Key initiatives include accelerated R&D on new sugarcane varieties to reduce white leaf disease risk, deployment of AI and satellite imagery for yield forecasting, and standardization of CCS (sugar content) lab testing. The board also pushed stakeholder participation (farmers and mills) in project design and procurement—actionable for agritech SMEs and suppliers to the sugar supply chain.
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BAM (Bangkok Commercial Asset Management), a major Thai asset management and debt restructuring firm, outlined its second-half strategy focusing on diversifying revenue streams beyond large single debtors. Key initiatives include establishing three additional joint venture AMCs (Asset Management Companies) with financial institution partners—with the first expected by Q3 end—accelerating its TDR Factory program, and monetizing non-performing assets through expanded channels. These moves aim to push total managed assets across the "BAM Universe" (including JV holdings) to 600 billion baht by year-end, while targeting consolidated net profit near 2 billion baht. The strategy reduces dependency on volatile large transactions and creates a more resilient, diversified business model.
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Google launched Pixel Watch 5 with offline Gemini AI capabilities for basic commands (brightness, Do Not Disturb, app launching) and enhanced complex task handling via cloud-connected Gemini Intelligence. New health features include emergency respiratory detection and 3-monthly health trend reports. The 41/45mm Actua display (3,000 nits) offers 30–40 hour battery life. Priced from $399 (up $50 from previous gen), available August 20. For Thai SME tech buyers: Consider adoption for customer engagement apps or health-tracking services, though premium pricing limits mainstream market penetration.
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Thailand's Commerce Ministry is repositioning cassava from a basic agricultural commodity into high-value products by leveraging health (Non-GMO, Gluten-Free) and sustainability credentials (low carbon, Net Zero alignment). The Thai Tapioca Nexus 2026 event connects 300+ Thai producers with buyers from 10 major markets (China, Japan, South Korea, India, etc.), targeting ~45 million baht in initial business negotiations that could scale to 150+ million baht. Domestic producers aim to double average yields from 2.8 to 5 tons/acre within 4 years to secure supply chains and reduce dependence on Vietnamese raw materials.
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BAM (Bangkok Bank's asset management subsidiary) reported H1 2026 net income of 451 million baht on collections of 6.5 billion baht, and is pivoting to a diversified business model. Key initiatives include establishing 3 new JV AMCs (asset management companies) with financial partners—first expected by Q3 end—launching "Restart with BAM" debt restructuring programme, and monetizing NPA (non-performing assets). Target: 600 billion baht total "BAM Universe" assets by year-end, reducing dependence on large single borrowers while building multiple revenue engines through partnerships.
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CP Group has launched CP-CoEX, a global learning and innovation platform designed to develop future leaders who can leverage AI for real business impact. The initiative combines academic knowledge with industry expertise through a 12-week flagship program ("AI Business Accelerator") involving 60 participants from 11 leading companies (CPF, CP ALL, True, AWS, Huawei, Tencent, KAO, Schneider Electric, Mitsubishi Electric, SCG) working on 7 real AI business projects with measurable outcomes—not just certificates, but pilots and scale-up plans. CP's chairman emphasized AI is reshaping operations across supply chain, automation, procurement, and organizational structures, compressing decision-making from 3-6 management levels to 2, making frontline staff more critical to decision-making.
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Suntory PepsiCo Thailand's HR executive discusses how AI should augment rather than replace human workers—automating routine tasks like documentation and calculations to free employees for customer insight work (GEMBA principle). The company prioritizes "People First" transformation, emphasizing that manager-employee relationships and one-on-one conversations are critical for retention and innovation. This reflects a pragmatic Thai corporate approach to AI adoption: use technology to eliminate skill gaps and administrative burden, but invest in human connections and consumer understanding as the genuine competitive edge.
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Google launched the Pixel 11 Pro Fold with improved durability (3x tougher), 20% brighter display, lighter and thinner design, and upgraded Tensor G6 chip. The device carries a starting price of $1,899 (up $100), with 16GB RAM and 256GB base storage. Pre-orders start immediately; general availability begins August 20. Relevant for tech-focused Thai SMEs and consumers tracking premium foldable device developments.
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Global stablecoin transaction volumes have exploded to $1.1 trillion in 30 days, with off-ramp volumes rising 446% YoY. Binance CEO Richard Teng calls on Thailand to accelerate stablecoin and tokenization policies to become a digital finance hub, citing clear U.S. legal clarity as a catalyst. However, Thailand's regulators (BOT and SEC) are simultaneously tightening controls on stablecoin transactions, citing money laundering and cross-border transfer evasion concerns, with new guidelines expected by August 2026 and enforcement by February 2027. This creates a direct tension between industry ambitions and regulatory caution.
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Thai tea brand Jian Cha is leveraging 7-Eleven convenience stores as a market-testing ground, launching a new matcha-strawberry beverage (230 ml, ฿49) in Bangkok and suburbs from August 2026, targeting 200,000 units in 3 months. The 7-8 month R&D effort solved complex supply-chain challenges including packaging, shelf-life (14 days), and layer separation. The expansion strategy uses convenience retail to reach 24-hour consumers and Gen Z drinkers before rolling out "Experience Shops" in provinces. Jian Cha is moderating store expansion to 100 outlets by year-end (from 150 target), increasing direct investment to 40%, and targeting 1,000 global locations within 5 years, with near-term focus on strong presence in Australia, Spain, Singapore, and a new LA opening.
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Bangkok Life Assurance reported H1 2025 net profit of 3,603 million baht (up 6% YoY) with total premiums of 18,064 million baht (up 10%). First-year premium growth of 6% (3,869 million baht) was driven by bancassurance channel strength (+26%), while agent channel declined (-9%). The company maintains strong solvency ratio of 391%, well above the regulatory minimum of 140%. Investment income improved 4% to 6,439 million baht, with ROI at 4.47%. Core strategy focuses on longevity care products and health services for aging society through BLA EveryCare platform and upskilling agent workforce as life care advisors.
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Google announced three new Pixel smartphone models powered by the Tensor G6 chip, which delivers 25% faster web browsing, 3.5x faster on-device AI processing, and 4.5x faster low-light photography. Key upgrade: larger main camera sensors (48MP on Pixel 11) with enhanced zoom capabilities up to 120x on Pro models. Pricing starts at $899 for Pixel 11, $1,099 for Pixel 11 Pro, and $1,299 for 11 Pro XL—a $100 increase due to removal of 128GB options. Pre-orders begin now with retail availability from August 20.
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Chee Chariya Golf Resort in Pattaya has launched Flinggolf, Asia's first location of the American sport that simplifies golf by using a single FlingStick and requiring only 15 minutes of training. The resort positions itself as an "Executive Playground" blending sports, entertainment, and dining, and has partnered with One Piece anime for exclusive merchandise collaborations. This positions Thailand as a sport tourism destination in Southeast Asia.
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Suntory PepsiCo Thailand's executive argues that while AI automates routine tasks (documents, calculations), people remain essential for understanding customer behavior and managing organizational relationships. The company adopts a "People First" strategy using GEMBA (on-site learning) and Seikatsusha (deep consumer lifestyle insights) to drive product innovation—e.g., BOSS Coffee, Pepsi Treats, T-Plus—that algorithms cannot create alone. By freeing managers from administrative work via AI, the firm enables quality one-on-one conversations and career mentoring, critical for retention in a tight talent market.
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Toyota's deputy CEO called on the Thai government to urgently restructure excise tax on vehicles to create fair competition between domestically-manufactured cars and imported EVs, especially from China. The company argues that Chinese EV imports exploit tax loopholes while receiving government subsidies, causing Thailand to lose substantial tax revenue. Toyota estimates it pays ~20 billion baht in annual excise tax versus Chinese importers paying only 8% on imports, creating an uneven competitive landscape that disadvantages local manufacturers and threatens long-term national tax collection.
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Thailand's PM will visit New Zealand August 20–22 (the first PM-level visit in 13 years) to elevate bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership. The visit aims to boost trade (tripling to 3x current value by 2032), expand investment, and unlock the TNZCEP trade agreement. Over 10 major Thai private sector companies will join to explore joint ventures and cooperation. Focus areas include trade, investment, technology, education, and tourism.
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TrueVisions NOW (Thailand's leading streaming platform) has partnered with Viu (regional OTT platform) to launch a dedicated "Branded Zone" featuring 6 Thai original series, expanding into Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines starting 20 August. This marks a strategic shift to export Thai IP and content globally, capitalizing on growing Southeast Asian demand (61M+ premium VOD subscribers across 5 key markets in 2025, up 19% year-on-year). Key implication: Thai content creators and SMEs in entertainment/production can tap new regional distribution channels and revenue streams as Thai originals gain international traction.
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