Santitarn Sathirathai

Santitarn Sathirathai is a leading economist and strategist shaping the future of Asia’s digital economy. As a member of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee, Sathirathai plays a pivotal role in setting national interest rates and guiding macroeconomic policy for one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic economies. His expertise also extends to public policy, where he serves as an Advisor to Thailand’s Parliament AI Commission. Sathirathai contributes to drafting the country’s Digital Platform Legislation, which shapes the regulatory framework for the region’s growing digital economy.

With a doctorate in Public Policy from Harvard University and degrees from the London School of Economics, Santitarn Sathirathai has spent his career at the intersection of economics, technology, and finance. He was formerly the Group Chief Economist at Sea Ltd, Southeast Asia’s largest consumer internet company. There he helped guide Sea’s regional strategy across e-commerce (Shopee), gaming (Garena), and digital finance (SeaMoney). Before that, Sathirathai was Head of Emerging Asia Economics Research at Credit Suisse, where he was recognised as the region’s top economic forecaster by Consensus Economics for three consecutive years. He was the only Asian economist to achieve this distinction.

Santitarn Sathirathai has actively influenced economic development strategies in Thailand. He helped shape Thailand’s SME Development Plan, contributed to post-COVID-19 economic recovery policies, and advised on e-commerce legislation. His work extends to the World Economic Forum’s Community of Chief Economists, where he collaborates with global thought leaders to craft the future of the global economy.

A prolific writer, Sathirathai has authored three books on the future economy, two of which became bestsellers in Thailand. His latest book, Twists and Turns, was named Book of the Year (2024) by Matichon Media Group, solidifying his status as a leading voice on economic transformation. His previous book, The Great Remake, has been republished five times and was recognised with the Outstanding Learning and Creativity Promotion Media Award (2022) by OKMD.

Santitarn Sathirathai’s work is driven by a belief that technology can be a force for inclusion, growth, and resilience. His experience across finance, government, and the private sector has positioned him as a key architect of Asia’s digital transformation, making him one of the most influential economic thinkers in the region today.