BoT mulls unlocking offshore rules

The Bank of Thailand is assessing a move to relax regulations related to offshore market investment for individual investors to help manage foreign exchange amid excess capital across the world.

The central bank has discussed with regulatory bodies relaxing conditions for foreign asset investment for local individual investors. The adjustment would provide more opportunities for local individual investors to invest abroad.

The central bank is also considering permitting more sales of foreign financial products in the local market based on an “outflow recycle concept”, said Mathee Supapongse, deputy governor for monetary stability.

In addition to facilitating more opportunities for offshore investment for individuals, the move will help them diversify investment risks, said Mr Mathee.

Regulatory bodies only allow institutional investors and high net worth investors…