KTC opts to take cautious approach amid obstacles

No changes to loan approval criteria

- SOMRUEDI BANCHONGDUANG

Krungthai Card (KTC), a leading credit card provider under Krungthai Bank (KTB), anticipates increasing challenges in its personal loan business for the remainder of the year amid economic headwinds.

According to Phichamon Jitpentham, head of personal loans at KTC, although the company recorded positive personal loan growth in the first quarter, business operations for the rest of the year are expected to be challenging. As a result, KTC plans to proceed cautiously, she said.

PRECARIOUS OUTLOOK

Ms Phichamon said the personal loan segment is typically sensitive to economic conditions. The loan market is expected to face heightened risks and uncertainties both globally and domestically — for the rest of this year, largely due to persistent economic pressures.

A key external factor weighing on Thailand's economy is the recent US tariff hike. In addition, the World Bank slashed its 2025 GDP growth forecast for Thailand to 1.6% from 2.9%.