Electrolux, Sharp in joint venture

Electrolux and Sharp Corporation have agreed to work together to strengthen their competitiveness in the global refrigerator market.

The two companies will differentiate their products through design and features but will base their models on a common chassis. The refrigerators will be manufactured at a Sharp factory in Thailand and will be launched this autumn, Electrolux said. - The Nation.

DSGT aims to raise Bt260m via IPO

Diaper-maker DSGT Plc will sell 75.19 million shares in an initial public offering, which runs from next Monday to Wednesday, in hopes of raising up to Bt260 million, to purchase machinery and expand production capacity, according to Bualuang Securities Plc, the company's financial adviser.

The company aims to sell its shares at a price between Bt3.2-Bt3.5 apiece. The price-to-earnings (PE) ratio of the company will be 30 per cent less than the average in the diaper industry. - The Nation.

Outlook 'stable' for THAI: TRIS

Thai Airways International Plc's credit rating has been affirmed at AA-, with a stable outlook, by TRIS Rating Co Ltd, reflecting its leading position in international air routes in and out of Bangkok and the benefits it derives from being a member of Star Alliance, the world's largest airline grouping.

"The ratings are enhanced by THAI's status as the national flag carrier and the major ownership stake held by the government. These strengths are partially offset by intense competition, increased risks from rising fuel prices and the company's high debt burden," TRIS said. The "stable" outlook is based on expectations that THAI will not only maintain its dominant position for international traffic in the Kingdom, but also that the government will continue to provide support in difficult times. - The Nation.