Bangkok Bank is facing mounting public backlash after introducing a new policy requiring customers with e-Savings accounts to maintain a minimum balance of 2,000 baht.
The rule, set to take effect on April 9, will prevent customers from transferring or withdrawing funds if the transaction causes the balance to fall below the threshold.
Reports from local media late Monday indicated that the Bank of Thailand has been made aware of the policy and is expected to review whether the requirement complies with existing central bank regulations.
According to the bank’s announcement, transactions that would reduce an account balance below 2,000 baht will be automatically declined.
However, two types of transactions will still be permitted: authorised automatic payments—such as utility bills, loan instalments, or credit-card charges—and full withdrawals conducted at a branch when customers intend to close the account.
The bank has advised customers to monitor their account balances carefully before making transactions and to deposit additional funds if necessary to avoid disruptions when using the e-Savings service.
The move quickly sparked widespread criticism online, with many social media users accusing the bank of disregarding the needs of low-income customers who typically keep smaller balances.
Several commenters pointed out that even small amounts of money can be significant for some account holders, while others said they plan to withdraw their savings and close their accounts before the rule is implemented.
E-Savings accounts, which are opened digitally through the bank’s mobile banking application and do not include a physical passbook, have become particularly popular among customers who prefer convenient online banking and maintain modest balances.
While Bangkok Bank has yet to provide a detailed justification for the change, financial analysts cited in local reports suggested the measure may be intended to address operational costs associated with maintaining dormant or extremely low-balance accounts.
