THAILAND

Bangkok residents more upbeat about economyConfidence in the country's economy in the second half is returning among Bangkok residents, who have reported feeling more secure about politics, their jobs and the more flexible economic situation, according to a new survey by the Thailand Marketing Research Society (TMRS).

This year's survey in July found that 33% of respondents felt confident about the economic outlook after the protests ended in May.

That is a significant improvement from the aftermath of the April 2009 unrest, when Bangkokians were less confident about the economic situation. Only 19% in last year's survey expressed a positive attitude. This year's poll saw confidence reach the highest point since the September 2006 coup.

Viriya Vorakittikun, president of the TMRS, said Bangkokians had adjusted themselves to the situation better than marketers had expected. Even though they are concerned about inflation and higher consumer product prices, the improving gross domestic product and growing exports are bolstering their confidence.

The study also showed most of those surveyed believe the political demonstrations early this year had affected Thailand's future, their lifestyles, their relations with family members and the way they perceive media reports.

Respondents expressed the most concern about their economic status, security, the political situation, health matters and social dissent.

Even though the respondents feel more confident about the economic situation than they did early this year, 60% of those surveyed said they would delay their spending on luxury goods. However, spending on necessary items such as food, travel and communication has increased.

About 69% said they were happy. Factors making them happy included warm family relations and more time spent with their families.

Television remained the most influential medium governing Bangkok residents' purchasing decisions, followed by newspapers, radio, billboards, booths/exhibitions and corporate social responsibility programmes.