$BTC Thailand has approved three applicants to establish virtual banks, aimed at promoting financial innovation, expanding access to underserved markets, and enhancing competition in the Thai banking sector. According to the Bank of Thailand (BOT), the Ministry of Finance stated that a consortium led by Krung Thai Bank, along with a consortium comprising telecommunications giant Advanced Info Service and PTT Oil and Retail Business, as well as a consortium made up of SCB X, WeTechnology, and South Korea's KakaoBank, have received preliminary approval. A total of five applicants submitted applications, and after a detailed evaluation process, three institutions were ultimately selected. The assessment focused on the qualifications of the applicants, their digital business models, and their ability to provide inclusive financial services. Regulators stated that this initiative aims to improve service channels for retail customers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through innovative digital channels, especially for those who currently do not have bank accounts or are underserved.