Songkran Festival 2026 will proceed across Thailand, promoting cultural traditions and vibrant water festivities. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead. Events are scheduled nationwide, highlighting regional and local celebrations.

Bangkok, 26 March 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) confirms that Songkran Festival 2026 will proceed as planned across all regions of the Kingdom, welcoming visitors from around the world to celebrate the Thai New Year through vibrant water festivities, cultural traditions, and community events. The Thai government is working to ensure everything remains fully operational ahead of the holiday period. Visitors are advised to plan travel in advance, and TAT will continue to monitor and communicate any updates.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “We are aware that global events have created uncertainty for travellers. We want to be clear: Songkran 2026 will take place as planned across every region of Thailand. The spirit of this festival and Thailand’s welcome remains unchanged.”

Recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Songkran reflects Thailand’s deep-rooted values of family, respect, and renewal. Traditionally marked by merit-making, water-pouring rituals for elders, and temple visits, the festival has grown into a nationwide celebration that blends cultural authenticity with contemporary experiences.

In Bangkok, large-scale events from 9 to 15 April will include the Maha Songkran World Event at Benjakitti Park, riverside celebrations at ICONSIAM and Asiatique, and music festivals such as S2O and Siam Songkran. Silom and Siam Square will once again transform into major water celebration zones.

Across the country, each region offers a distinct flavour of Songkran. The Central region, including heritage-rich Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, highlights temple-based celebrations and the signature elephant water-splashing event. The North—Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, and Nan—offers extended ceremonies rooted in local tradition, while Chon Buri’s Wan Lai custom stretches festivities beyond the main dates. Cities in the Northeast, such as Khon Kaen and Udon Thani, blend cultural ritual with urban energy, and the South brings beachside Songkran to Phuket, Surat Thani, and Chumphon.

Songkran Festival 2026 in Thailand

Bangkok

Rangnam Songkran Festival 2026
9-14 April 2026
King Power Rangnam, Bangkok

Asiatique Summer Wonder Fest 2026
9-30 April 2026
Asiatique The Riverfront Destination, Bangkok

Splash Nation Bangkok 2026
10-11 April 2026
Rama IV Road (Sunthon Kosa Road Area), Bangkok

ICONSIAM Thaiconic Songkran Celebration 2026
10-15 April 2026
River Park, ICONSIAM, Bangkok

Siam Paragon Ultrasonic Summer Festival 2026
10-15 April 2026
Siam Paragon, Bangkok

Splash Songkran RCA 2026
10-15 April 2026
Royal City Avenue (RCA), Bangkok

Saneh Art by Songkran Festival 2026
10-30 April 2026
Benchasiri Park and Lan Khon Mueang (Bangkok City Hall Plaza), Bangkok

S2O Songkran Music Festival 2026
11-13 April 2026
S2O Land Ratchada, Bangkok

Thai Lism Music Festival 2026
11-13 April 2026
Central World, Bangkok

SUPERFLUID 2026
11-13 April 2026
Fountain Square, King Power Rangnam, Bangkok

SIAM Songkran Music Festival 2026
11-14 April 2026
Bravo BKK,  Bangkok

Maha Songkran World Event
11-15 April 2026
Benjakitti Park, Bangkok

Drag Let’s Play Water Festival 2026 Celebrating Diversity and Thai Soft Power
12 April 2026
Elephant Parking Area, Song Wat Road, Bangkok

Songkran Festival at Silom Road
12-14 April 2026
Silom Road, Bangkok

Siam Songkran Festival 2026
12-15 April 2026
Siam Square, Bangkok

Monster Water Fest 2026
13-15 April 2026
Fashion island, Bangkok

Bangkok Water Festival 2026
13-15 April 2026
Ten destinations across Bangkok

K2O Songkran Music Festival 2026
14 April 2026
S2O Land Ratchada, Bangkok

Amazing Bangkok Songkran Parade 2026 at Silom Road
14 April 2026
Silom Road, Bangkok

Central Region

Nakhon Pathom

Salaya Water Fest 2026
3-5 April 2026
SS Park Salaya, Nakhon Pathom

Samut Songkhram

Songkran Music Festival 2026 at Mae Klong
10-15 April 2026
Forecourt of Urbana House Hotel,
Samut Songkhram

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi Songkran Festival 2026
13-14 April 2026
Rattanakanchan Island, Mueang District, Kanchanaburi

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Songkran at Wat Chaiwatthanaram
9-13 April 2026
Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Elephant Splashing Songkran Festival 2026
13-15 April 2026
Sri Sanphet Road, in front of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (Ayutthaya Office), Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Northern Region

Tak

Mae Sot Songkran Music Festival 2026
4 April 2026
Robinson Lifestyle Mae Sot, Tak

Songkran Festival at Tak
12-15 April 2026
Mueang Tak District and Mae Sot District, Tak

Sukhothai

Maha Songkran at Sukhothai
6-19 April 2026
Si Satchanalai District and Mueang Sukhothai District, Sukhothai

Nan

Songkran Festival 2026 at Nan
12-15 April 2026
Khao Tan Road, Wat Suan Tan, and various streets within the Nan Municipality area, Nan

Phayao

Bubble Wave Phayao Songkran Fest 2026
13-15 April 2026
Pho Khun Ngam Mueang Monument, Phayao

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Water Festival 2026
11-13 April 2026
Wat Chedi Luang, Mueang District, Chiang Mai

Lamphun

Lamphun Water Festival 2026
11-13 April 2026
Rod Kaew Road, Mueang District, Lamphun

Uttaradit

Uttaradit Songkran Music Festival
13-15 April 2026
Longlin Road, Mueang District, Uttaradit

Phichit

Songkran Festival at Pho Prathap Chang
13-15 April 2026
Pho Prathap Chang District, Phichit

Eastern Region

Chon Buri

Chon Buri Songkran Festival 2026 – Wan Lai Tradition
5-20 April 2026
Across Chon Buri

Pattaya Songkran Summer Festival 2026
17-19 April 2026
Central Pattaya Beach, Chon Buri

Songkran Festival 2026 at Si Racha
19-21 April 2026
Si Racha Bay Seaside Health Park, Chon Buri

Rayong

Songkran Festival 2026 at Durian Road
13-14 April 2026
Durian Road, Mueang District, Rayong

Trat

Ko Chang Wan Lai Songkran Festival 2026
19-21 April 2026
Small Airport, Ko Chang, Trat

Sa Kaeo

14 April Watthana Maha Songkran 2026
14 April 2026
Khao Lam Road (from Wat Nakhon Tham to the front of Anuban Sriwatthana Witthaya School), Sa Kaeo

Samut Prakan

“Hae-Hong-Tong-Ta-Kab” Flag Procession Festival 2026
13 April 2026
Songtham Worawihan Temple, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan

Phra Pradaeng Songkran Festival 2026
24-26 April 2026
In front of the Phra Pradaeng District Office, Samut Prakan

Northeastern Region

Udon Thani

Udon Thani Water Festival 2026
12-14 April 2026
Ban Chiang District, Udon Thani

Udon Songkran Festival 2026
13-16 April 2026
UD Town Shopping Center, Mueang District, Udon Thani

Amnat Charoen

Wanlai Mueang Phana
25-26 April 2026
Phana Subdistrict Municipality, Phana District, Amnat Charoen

Khon Kaen

Songkran Festival 2026 at Khon Kaen
11-15 April 2026
Bueng Kaen Nakhon and Si Chan Road, Mueang District, Khon Kaen

Khon Kaen Water Festival 2026
13-15 April 2026
Wat Chai Si, Mueang District, Khon Kaen

Nakhon Phanom

Nakhon Phanom Songkran Festival
13-15 April 2026
Phanom Naka park, Mueang District, Nakhon Phanom

Ubon Ratchathani

Maha Songkran at Kaeng Saphue
1-30 April 2026
Kaeng Saphue, Phibun Mangsahan District, Ubon Ratchathani

Nakhon Ratchasima

Monster Water Fest 2026
13-15 April 2026
Nakhon Ratchasima

Summer Street Fest 2026 at Ban Klang Community Road
14-15 April 2026
Ban Klang Community Road, Sikhio District, Nakhon Ratchasima

Surin

Surin Elephant Maha Songkran Festival 2026
10-12 April 2026
Chaloem Phra Kiat Public Park (New Park), Surin

Sakon Nakhon

Khao Na Prang Road Songkran Festival, Phanna Nikhom 2026
11-15 April 2026
Ban Nong Waeng Irrigation Canal, Phanna Nikhom District, Sakon Nakhon

Southern Region

Chumphon

Songkran Festival 2026 at Tham Thong
10-14 April 2026
Khao Tham Thong, Pathiu District, Chumphon

Chumphon Songkran Festival 2026
12-15 April 2026
Nong Yai Area Development Project Under Royal Initiative, Mueang Chumphon District, Chumphon

Maha Songkran Festival 2026 at Saphli Beach
13-19 April 2026
Saphli Beach, Pathiu District, Chumphon

Bang Boet Wan Lai Festival 2026
17 April 2026
Bang Boet Beach, Pathiu District, Chumphon

Ranong

Songkran Festival 2026 at Khao Piak Road
9-18 April 2026
Hua Thanon Stadium, Kra Buri District, Ranong

Songkran Festival 2026 at Ranong
13-14 April 2026
Ruang Rat Road, Ranong

Nakhon Si Thammarat

Maha Songkran Festival 2026 at Nakhon Si Thammarat
11-14 April 2026
Provincial Administrative Organization Stadium, Nakhon Si Thammarat

Surat Thani

Roi-Sad Songkran Music Festival 2026
3-4 April 2026
Wang Tai Hotel, Surat Thani

Downtown Songkran Music Fest 2026
12 – 14 April 2026
Tha Pla Wan Area to the front of the Provincial Governor’s Residence, Surat Thani

Songkran Festival 2026 at Samui
12-15 April 2026
Bo Phut Subdistrict, Maret Subdistrict, Ang Thong Subdistrict, Ko Samui, Surat Thani

Songkran Music Festival at Central Surat Thani
12-15 April 2026
Central Surat Thani, Surat Thani

Southern Splash Festival 2026
13-15 April 2026
Sahathai Square, Surat Thani

Phuket

Phuket Water Festival 2026
11-13 April 2026
Baan Mai Khao and Patong Beach, Kathu District, Phuket

Songkran Festival 2026 at Dibuk road, Phuket
13 April 2026
Dibuk Road (in front of Limelight Phuket) and Dragon Plaza, Phuket

Source : Songkran festival 2026 to proceed nationwide, welcoming global visitors to Thailand’s UNESCO-recognised New Year celebration

Other People are Reading

Developers have offered to include bus link provision

A massive development at Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone has been given the green light by planners – and looks set to spark a jobs bonanza for the Fylde coast.

And the developers have even offered to include a bus link provision to ensure all aspects of transport connections are included in the scheme.

The application was for the erection of eight buildings within business, industrial, storage and warehousing uses and a retail and café use, on land bounded by Amy Johnson Way, Common Edge Road, Jepson Way, School Road and Blackpool Airport.

It went before Blackpool Council’s planning committee last night (Tuesday March 24), where councillors unanimously approved the scheme.

The session was forced to go ahead in another council chamber after protesters over an unrelated housing issue forced the committee to temporarily adjourn proceedings.

After the meeting, committee member, Cllr Julie Sloman, said: “The members were unanimous in backing this project.

“It is a major development for Blackpool, with the prospect of attracting businesses to the area and plenty of new jobs to come with them.

“Not only that, but during the construction phase there will be plenty of other jobs too.

“It was vital the meeting went ahead – if it hadn’t this project would have been delayed and it is important we can get applications processed to avoid hold-ups, whatever they are.”

The proposals were approved just as a new spine road is nearing completion.

The new road is an £18.4m infrastructure project connecting Common Edge Road to the eastern side of the site. Built by George Cox & Sons, this 18-month project aims to unlock new development land, improve traffic flow with new lanes, and support the growth of the business park.

This latest application before the committee was a more detailed Reserved Matters planning submission on behalf of Blackpool Council, lodged by Cassidy and Ashton planning consultants and architects, after the authority’s planners approved an earlier outline application for the site.

The proposals included a changing places facility, associated access points to the development plots, service yards, landscaping, parking and boundary treatments, an Electric Vehicle charging facility on Amy Johnson Way and a link road between Jepson Way and the spine road.

The massive development site covers an area of land between Amy Johnson Way to the west and Common Edge Road to the east, extending to an area of 67,166sqm, with the eight individual plots varying in size.

The proposed new buildings will contain partial mezzanine floors to provide additional floorspace within the units.

A Design and Access Statement concluded: “The scheme represents a high-quality form of development which will sit comfortably with a range of businesses to this location.

“The development has been designed to complement its surroundings in terms of scale, massing and appearance whilst providing the space operationally required.”

The Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone (BAEZ) is a 144-hectare designated economic development area established in 2016 to create over 3,000 new jobs and attract 180+ businesses, primarily in advanced manufacturing, energy, and high-performance computing.

Centered around Blackpool Airport and Amy Johnson Way, it offers businesses tax incentives, 20 plus hectares of new commercial land, and superior infrastructure connectivity.

To find all the planning applications, traffic diversions, road layout changes, alcohol licence applications and more in your community, visit the Public Notices Portal.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX is preparing to file paperwork for what could become the largest initial public offering in history as soon as this week, according to people familiar with the matter, accelerating plans for a potential June debut that would value the rocket and satellite giant at more than $1.75 trillion.

The move, reported by The Information on Tuesday and echoed across major outlets, marks a dramatic shift for the 24-year-old company long resistant to public markets. Advisers involved in preparations expect SpaceX to seek more than $75 billion in fresh capital, dwarfing the previous record set by Saudi Aramco’s $29.4 billion listing in 2019.

SpaceX did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Musk has not publicly addressed the latest filing timeline, though he confirmed in December 2025 that reports of a 2026 IPO were “accurate.”

The potential offering comes as SpaceX’s valuation has soared on the back of its Starlink satellite internet service and repeated successful launches of the Falcon 9 rocket. A recent insider share sale valued the company at about $800 billion late last year, with analysts now projecting a public debut north of $1.5 trillion — and some as high as $1.75 trillion.

Starlink, which provides high-speed internet via thousands of low-Earth orbit satellites, has emerged as the company’s primary growth engine. The service generated roughly $12 billion in revenue last year and now serves millions of subscribers worldwide, including in remote and underserved areas. SpaceX has deployed more than 10,000 Starlink satellites, with ambitious plans to expand the constellation dramatically.

Revenue from Starlink is believed to account for a growing share of SpaceX’s total income, which analysts estimate reached around $15 billion in 2025. The business model — recurring subscriptions with high margins — has helped justify sky-high valuations despite the capital-intensive nature of rocket development and satellite manufacturing.

SpaceX’s traditional launch business continues to dominate the global market. The company launches more payloads to orbit than any other entity, serving NASA, commercial clients and the U.S. military. Its reusable Falcon 9 boosters have slashed launch costs, making SpaceX a critical partner in America’s space ambitions.

The developmental Starship vehicle, designed for deep-space missions including a potential crewed landing on Mars, represents the company’s long-term bet on interplanetary travel. Musk has repeatedly said Starship is key to making humanity multi-planetary, with plans for massive flight cadence increases once fully operational.

Recent reports suggest the IPO proceeds would fund an “insane flight rate” for Starship, construction of orbital data centers powered by artificial intelligence, and other ambitious projects. SpaceX’s all-stock acquisition of Musk’s xAI earlier this year has further blurred lines between space, AI and computing, potentially creating synergies for in-orbit data processing.

Wall Street banks including Bank of America, JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley have been in discussions for leading roles in the offering, according to earlier reports. A confidential filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission could allow SpaceX to gauge investor interest quietly before a full public registration.

If priced at the high end of expectations, the IPO would not only set records for size but could also propel SpaceX into the upper ranks of U.S. public companies by market capitalization, rivaling or exceeding major tech giants.

The news triggered sharp gains in other space-related stocks on Wednesday. Shares of Rocket Lab, AST SpaceMobile and Redwire jumped in premarket and regular trading as investors bet on heightened sector interest ahead of SpaceX’s debut.

Analysts caution that a SpaceX IPO would introduce new scrutiny. As a public company, it would face quarterly reporting requirements, greater transparency on costs and risks, and pressure from shareholders focused on near-term profitability rather than long-term visions like Mars colonization.

Musk’s dual roles as CEO of Tesla and SpaceX — and his ownership stakes across multiple ventures — could raise governance questions. Tesla shareholders have occasionally expressed concern about Musk’s divided attention, though SpaceX has operated largely independently.

Regulatory hurdles also loom. SpaceX’s heavy reliance on government contracts, particularly with NASA and the Pentagon, means national security reviews and export controls could influence the IPO process. Starlink’s international expansion has already faced geopolitical pushback in some markets.

Still, investor enthusiasm appears strong. Prediction markets have placed high odds on a 2026 listing, with many pointing to June as a target window. Some speculate the timing could align with symbolic milestones in Musk’s narrative around space exploration.

SpaceX’s path to public markets has been years in the making. Musk long preferred the flexibility of private ownership to pursue high-risk, high-reward projects without quarterly earnings pressure. But growing valuation — fueled by Starlink’s rapid subscriber growth and launch dominance — has made liquidity for early employees and investors more pressing.

Tender offers and secondary share sales have provided some exits, but a full IPO would open the company to millions of retail and institutional investors. ETFs and leveraged products betting on SpaceX exposure have already begun appearing in filings, signaling market anticipation.

The broader space economy stands to benefit. A successful SpaceX debut could validate the sector and draw more capital to satellite communications, reusable rockets and orbital infrastructure. Rivals and partners alike are watching closely.

For Musk, the IPO represents both validation of two decades of work and a massive capital infusion to accelerate his most audacious goals. SpaceX has already transformed access to space; going public could supercharge its next chapter.

Yet risks remain substantial. Starship development has encountered setbacks, including explosive test flights, though progress continues. Starlink faces competition from Amazon’s Project Kuiper and other entrants. Regulatory approval for massive satellite constellations has drawn environmental and astronomical concerns over light pollution and orbital debris.

SpaceX employs thousands and operates major facilities in California, Texas and Florida. Its Starbase complex in Boca Chica, Texas, serves as the hub for Starship testing and is central to Musk’s Mars ambitions.

As the potential filing window narrows, attention turns to the SEC and how regulators will handle one of the most scrutinized offerings in decades. A quiet filing this week would keep momentum toward a summer listing while allowing time for due diligence.

Industry observers note that even at conservative estimates, SpaceX’s IPO would eclipse most recent tech debuts and reshape perceptions of private space companies. The combination of proven launch capability, a scalable satellite network and visionary leadership has created rare investor appeal.

For now, SpaceX remains focused on operations. Launches continue at a brisk pace from Florida and California, while Starlink terminals ship to new customers daily. The company’s next Starship flight test is eagerly awaited by enthusiasts and engineers alike.

If the latest reports hold, investors could soon have the chance to buy shares in the company that pioneered reusable orbital rockets and built the world’s largest satellite constellation. Whether the valuation lives up to the hype will depend on execution in the years ahead.

The coming weeks promise intense speculation as details emerge. For a company that once seemed destined to remain private forever, the countdown to public trading has clearly begun.

Market Review

Sector Review “Broad Market”

The global backdrop in Q4 2025 was decidedly supportive for emerging markets (EM). The U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) delivered two more 25 basis-point (bps) rate cuts in October and December, bringing the federal funds rate down to

States raised ₹54,834 crore at Tuesday’s auction, well above the indicative ₹47,985 crore, and dealers expect borrowing on Friday to again exceed the notified amount, with states likely to raise ₹42,941 crore against an indicated ₹12,000 crore in the calendar.

Total state development loan (SDL) supply for the week could approach ₹1 lakh crore, adding to pressure on central government bonds and pushing the 10-year benchmark yield towards 6.90% to 6.95%, market participants said.

“SDL supply of around ₹1 lakh crore in a single week is quite significant and could have a crowding-out effect, putting pressure on government bonds,” said Mataprasad Pandey, vice president at Arete Capital Services. “With such heavy issuance, the 10-year g-sec yield could move above 6.90% by Friday.”

Agencies

SDL supply this week could touch ₹1 L-cr; pushing 10-yr yield towards 6.90–6.95%

The benchmark 10-year yield closed at 6.87% on Wednesday, after rising steadily from 6.73% last week, tracking elevated crude oil prices and heightened geopolitical risks linked to the West Asia conflict.

Live Events

“The pressure is felt in the market and when sentiment weakens, there is fear that causes yields to rise,” said a bond trader at a primary dealership.
The Reserve Bank of India’s decision to cancel a treasury bill auction on Wednesday may help ease short-term funding costs, but traders said it is unlikely to materially cap long-term yields. “T-bills are short term, so cancelling them impacts CP and CD rates, but it had no meaningful impact on the 10-year yield,” a trader said. Madhavi Arora, chief economist at Emkay Global, said India remained caught between global uncertainty and supply pressures, adding that the 10-year yield could edge up to 6.95% in the near term.

Franklin Resources, Inc. [NYSE:BEN] is a global investment management organization with subsidiaries operating as Franklin Templeton and serving clients in over 150 countries. Franklin Templeton’s mission is to help clients achieve better outcomes through investment management expertise, wealth management and technology solutions. Through its specialist investment managers, the company offers specialization on a global scale, bringing extensive capabilities in fixed income, equity, alternatives and multi-asset solutions. With more than 1,300 investment professionals, and offices in major financial markets around the world, the California-based company has over 75 years of investment experience and over $1.4 trillion in assets under management as of June 30, 2023. For more information, please visit franklintempleton.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

MELBOURNE, Australia — HESTA, one of Australia’s largest industry superannuation funds serving health and community sector workers, is navigating leadership upheaval with the announcement that its third C-suite executive in under 12 months is departing, even as the $100 billion-plus fund delivered solid investment gains for members in 2025 and advocates for major retirement system reforms.

Chief Operating Officer Stephen Reilly will step down, joining a wave of senior exits that includes CEO Debby Blakey, who plans to retire in the second half of 2026 after years at the helm. The departures come as HESTA celebrates surpassing $100 billion in funds under management and reports strong member returns, but also grapples with lingering effects from a 2025 administration transition that drew regulatory scrutiny from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA).

HESTA’s Balanced Growth option, the default MySuper strategy where most members are invested, returned 9.42% for the 12 months to Dec. 31, 2025, outperforming the industry average of around 9.1%. Over the full 2025 calendar year, members saw more than $10 billion added to their retirement savings through contributions and investment performance. The option has averaged 8.02% annually over the past decade, with consistent outperformance in shorter periods.

Other options also posted gains. The High Growth choice returned 11.39%, while Indexed Balanced Growth delivered 10.5% or higher in some metrics. Retirement Income Stream members benefited similarly, with Balanced Growth in that category achieving 11.25% for the year. HESTA emphasized that all ready-made options exceeded their long-term 10-year objectives to the end of 2025.

The fund hit a milestone in late 2025 when member savings crossed $100 billion, delivering scale benefits that support lower fees and stronger negotiating power for investments. HESTA has repeatedly won recognition, including the SuperRatings Net Benefit award for 2026, highlighting strong outcomes after fees and taxes over short and long terms.

Yet the leadership changes raise questions about continuity. Blakey, who has led the fund through significant growth, has spoken about the need for bold reforms and global resilience in superannuation amid geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing Iran conflict. In recent speeches, she warned boards of catastrophic risks from failing to prepare for volatility.

Reilly’s exit marks the third high-level departure in a year, following others in the executive team. HESTA has not detailed reasons for the changes beyond standard transitions, but the timing coincides with efforts to stabilize operations after the APRA action.

In December 2025, APRA imposed additional license conditions on HESTA following a “severe, prolonged disruption” during its switch to a new administration provider. The move left more than 1.1 million members unable to access accounts online for weeks, with call center delays compounding frustration. APRA cited deficiencies in risk management and board governance, requiring independent reviews of those frameworks.

HESTA apologized to affected members and has worked to resolve issues. Officials stressed that core functions like contributions and payments continued, but the incident highlighted challenges in large-scale technology upgrades common across the super sector.

On the policy front, HESTA has been vocal in 2026. In its pre-budget submission for 2026-27, the fund urged reforms to encourage more Australians to shift super into retirement income streams, where earnings are tax-free. Research commissioned by HESTA showed that up to 1.8 million retirees missed out on an estimated $2.46 billion in extra earnings in the 2025 financial year by staying in accumulation phase. Without changes, that could exceed $5 billion annually by 2030.

The fund is calling for a default mechanism allowing super funds to automatically transition eligible members into retirement income products, with an opt-out safeguard. It also welcomed the passage of legislation increasing the Low Income Super Tax Offset (LISTO) and other measures aimed at fairness in the system.

HESTA has seen record downsizer contributions, topping $94 million in 2025 — an 8% rise from 2024 and 45% from 2023 — driven by strong property sales. The fund supports “payday super” reforms set to begin July 1, 2026, which would require more frequent employer contributions to reduce volatility from lump-sum payments.

Investment strategy remains focused on diversification. HESTA’s February 2026 update highlighted how spreading risk across asset classes helped navigate market swings in 2025. The fund has increased exposure to areas like private credit and equities while maintaining caution amid global uncertainties, including Middle East tensions that could affect oil prices and inflation.

Performance data to late February 2026 shows Balanced Growth delivering solid year-to-date results, with longer-term returns remaining competitive. HESTA stresses that past performance is not indicative of future outcomes, and members should consider their own circumstances.

The fund, primarily for health and community services workers, manages savings for over one million members. Its not-for-profit structure aims to maximize returns for members rather than shareholders.

As leadership transitions unfold, the board will seek new executives to maintain momentum. Blakey’s retirement marks the end of an era of expansion, during which HESTA grew significantly in size and influence.

Analysts note that while executive turnover can signal internal challenges, HESTA’s strong returns and policy advocacy position it well in a competitive superannuation landscape undergoing consolidation and technological change.

Broader industry context includes rising super guarantee contributions, now at 12%, and ongoing debates about housing affordability, productivity and how super can support national goals. HESTA has called Australia a “centre of global capital” and pushed for reforms to address housing shortages that drag on economic growth.

Members are advised to check their accounts regularly, review investment choices and consider advice for retirement planning. HESTA provides tools and updates via its website and member portals.

Looking ahead, 2026 is expected to bring volatility from geopolitical risks and domestic policy shifts. HESTA’s cautious outlook reflects awareness of potential market headwinds, yet its track record of resilience offers reassurance.

The fund continues to invest in sustainable options and member-focused initiatives, including lowering fees for some retirement income streams.

For many Australians, especially in frontline health roles, HESTA represents a critical pillar of financial security. Its ability to deliver competitive returns while advocating for systemic improvements will shape its reputation in the coming year.

As the search for new leadership intensifies and reform discussions advance in Canberra, HESTA’s story underscores both the opportunities and challenges facing Australia’s $3 trillion-plus super industry.

Members with questions about performance, the administration issues or retirement options should contact HESTA directly or consult a licensed financial adviser. The fund remains committed to transparency and putting members first amid a period of change.

At the 47th Bangkok International Motor Show, GAC INTERNATIONAL launched its GAC CARE service brand, unveiled the AION V 500KM, and introduced the “Thailand Action 2.0” strategy to enhance localization and ecosystem development.

BANGKOK, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On March 23, the 47th Bangkok International Motor Show officially opened. Centered on “service upgrading”, GAC INTERNATIONAL launched GAC CARE – its first overseas service brand – at the show, fully unveiled its upgrade “Thailand Action 2.0” strategy, and debuted the new AION V 500KM variant. These milestones – from service system enhancement and localized strategy upgrading to product renewal – marking GAC’s entry into a leading phase in the Thai market.

As a key pillar of GAC’s global strategy, the Thai market continues to show srong growth potential. Under the guidance of “ONE GAC 2.0” and “Thailand Action 1.0”, GAC has achieved a critical leap from product introduction to ecosystem deployment. In 2025, GAC sold 15,301 units in Thailand, representing a 305% year-on-year increase, securing its position among the top tier of new energy vehicle (NEV) brands. Building on this foundation, officially announced the comprehensive launch of the “Thailand Action 2.0” strategic upgrade at the Bangkok International Motor Show.

Fully unveiling “Thailand Action 2.0”, GAC’s localization development is shifting from “putting down roots” to “taking the lead”. By leveraging systemic capabilities across product layout, channel & mobility ecosystem, energy ecosystem and manufacturing & industrial chain, GAC is building a long-term competitive advantage. Through multi-dimensional collaboration, GAC is evolving into an ecosystem builder covering products, services, energy and manufacturing, upholding its commitment “In Thailand, For Thailand” and delivering care to users through superior products and comprehensive services.

While advancing its localization strategy, Wang Haoyong, General Manager of GAC INTERNATIONAL Thailand Sales Company, announced on-site the launch of GAC’s first overseas service brand — GAC CARE. He stated, “In Thailand, for Thailand. What GAC brings is not just advanced vehicles, but a complete, reliable, and heartfelt mobility ecosystem. Centered on users’ full-lifecycle needs, GAC CARE is built on Four Core Pillars: customer centric, advanced assurance, rapid responsiveness and exclusive experience.

The all-new AION V 500km variant brought by GAC became the highlight of the booth, attracting numerous visitors to experience and inquire.

Going forward, GAC will continue to take Thailand as a critical hub, stay user-centric, deepen localization, advance the NEV industry ecosystem, and achieve long-term win-win development with local society.

Source : GAC’s First Overseas Service Brand Launches at Bangkok Motor Show, Thailand Action 2.0 Commences

The information provided in this article was created by Cision PR Newswire, our news partner. The author's opinions and the content shared on this page are their own and may not necessarily represent the perspectives of Thailand Business News.

Other People are Reading

Taylor Swift dominated the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards on Thursday night, collecting seven trophies including Artist of the Year while sharing the Dolby Theatre stage and front-row moments with fiancé Travis Kelce and Olympic gold medalist Alysa Liu in one of the evening’s most memorable crossovers.

The 13th annual ceremony, broadcast live on FOX, celebrated the year’s most-played artists and songs on iHeartRadio platforms. Swift, who led with nine nominations, extended her record as the show’s most decorated artist with her 41st career win. She attended with Kelce, marking the couple’s first joint awards show appearance, and received several honors from Liu, the figure skater who won gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Swift kicked off her winning streak by accepting Pop Album of the Year for “The Life of a Showgirl,” presented by British singer RAYE. The upbeat record, which Swift described as reflecting a sense of happiness and freedom, earned praise for its confident pop sound. In her speech, she thanked Kelce directly from the stage. “This album probably also feels very happy and confident and free because that’s the way that I get to feel every single day of my life, because of my fiancé, who’s here tonight,” she said, drawing cheers from the crowd.

The night escalated when Liu, fresh from her Olympic triumph in Milan, took the stage to present Swift with a bundle of additional awards, including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year and others. Liu handed over what became Swift’s seventh trophy of the evening, bringing the total to a dominant sweep. The moment blended pop stardom with Olympic athleticism, as the two American icons shared warm onstage interaction. Swift gushed about Liu’s skating performance, calling it inspiring.

Liu, who had previously appeared with fellow U.S. figure skaters Amber Glenn and Isabeau Levito in a video promoting Team USA as the “Blade Angels,” sat near Swift and Kelce during the show. Social media buzzed with photos of the Olympic champion positioned right behind the couple, creating a dream seating arrangement that fans dubbed iconic.

Kelce, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end, made a stylish entrance captured on video by iHeartRadio as he walked the Dolby Theatre hallways before joining Swift inside. The pair posed together on the red carpet and inside the venue, drawing massive attention as they made their awards show debut as a couple. Kelce supported Swift throughout, including standing ovations for other performers.

Swift’s wins extended to Song of the Year and Pop Song of the Year for “The Fate of Ophelia,” along with Best Music Video and other pop-centric categories. Her “The Life of a Showgirl” also claimed Pop Album of the Year honors. The victories underscored Swift’s continued dominance in radio airplay and streaming metrics that determine many iHeartRadio awards.

In her Artist of the Year acceptance, Swift reflected on her journey. “I didn’t think I was an artist when I first started,” she told the audience, crediting fans and collaborators for her growth. The speech mixed humility with gratitude, a hallmark of her public appearances.

The ceremony featured high-energy performances and special honors. Ludacris hosted and received the Landmark Award, while Miley Cyrus accepted the Innovator Award. John Mellencamp earned the Icon Award. A standout musical moment saw TLC, Salt-N-Pepa and En Vogue unite for a classic hits medley.

Other winners included Alex Warren as Breakthrough Artist of the Year and for his song “Ordinary.” Linkin Park claimed Rock Artist and Rock Song honors. The event balanced established stars like Swift with emerging talents, reflecting iHeartRadio’s broad listener base.

Swift’s seafoam green velvet corset and matching miniskirt by Wiederhoeft, accented with pink beads, drew fashion praise and tied into the “showgirl” theme of her winning album. Kelce complemented the glamorous evening in sharp attire as the couple navigated the star-studded night.

The crossover with Alysa Liu added a unique layer. Liu, representing the fresh excitement of Olympic success, bridged sports and entertainment. Her presentation duties and proximity to Swift and Kelce fueled social media trends, with fans posting side-by-side photos of the trio and celebrating American achievement across disciplines.

Backstage moments captured Swift, Kelce and Liu interacting warmly, further amplifying the feel-good energy. Videos circulated showing the group’s easy rapport, with Liu praising Swift’s music and Swift reciprocating admiration for Liu’s athletic feats.

The iHeartRadio Music Awards base many categories on airplay, streaming and listener data from iHeartMedia stations and the app. Swift’s repeated success highlights her unmatched ability to connect with audiences through consistent radio hits and cultural impact.

For Kelce, the appearance offered a rare glimpse into his support role amid NFL offseason. The couple’s relationship, which began in 2023, has drawn sustained public interest, and their first awards show outing satisfied fans eager for joint red-carpet moments.

Liu’s involvement extended the night’s theme of inspiration. As a two-time U.S. national champion and now Olympic gold medalist, her presence alongside Swift symbolized excellence in performance arts and sports. The 2026 Winter Olympics connection, where Swift had promoted the skaters, came full circle.

Industry observers noted Swift’s seven wins push her further ahead in iHeartRadio history. Her ability to dominate major categories while releasing personal, upbeat music amid a high-profile relationship demonstrates sustained relevance in a crowded pop landscape.

The Dolby Theatre, familiar from Oscar nights, provided a fitting glamorous backdrop. Production featured sleek staging, genre-spanning performances and seamless award presentations. FOX’s broadcast and iHeartRadio’s digital coverage reached millions.

Red carpet fashion leaned bold and celebratory. Swift’s showgirl-inspired look stood out, while other attendees mixed high glam with personal statements. Social platforms lit up with reactions to the Swift-Kelce-Liu interactions, performances and surprise wins.

As the evening concluded, Swift’s sweep and the high-profile attendee mix reaffirmed the awards’ role in highlighting both commercial dominance and cultural moments. The night blended music celebration with feel-good crossovers that transcended typical award show fare.

For Swift, the wins add to an already historic career. She thanked fans repeatedly, emphasizing the role of listener support in iHeartRadio’s fan-driven elements. Kelce’s presence added a personal touch, with Swift’s onstage shoutout highlighting their partnership.

Liu emerged as an unexpected star of the night, her Olympic glow shining in the entertainment spotlight. Her poised presentation and stylish appearance earned praise, positioning her as a rising figure comfortable in diverse arenas.

The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards will be remembered for Taylor Swift’s record-extending haul, the debut joint appearance by Swift and Travis Kelce, and the memorable collaboration with Alysa Liu. From chart-topping anthems to Olympic inspiration, the evening captured music’s power to unite and uplift.

As replays and clips circulate, conversations turn to Swift’s next era and the lasting image of three American talents sharing the spotlight. The Dolby Theatre glowed long after the final award, with fans already anticipating what’s next from these stars in music, sports and beyond.