Bangkok--24 Jul--SET Thailand’s Market for Alternative Investment (mai), in conjunction with the Ministry of Energy, will host the forum, Alternative energy, alternative investment, to promote the alternative energy industry’s investment potential and facilitate its access to long-term funding. The seminar is on August 1, at 13:00 — 16:00 hours, at The Stock Exchange of Thailand Building. mai places a high priority on alternative energy, particularly ethanol and bio-diesel development, and supports the involvement of entrepreneurs in the industry. The forum will create a better understanding of the sector and spark the interest of investors and entrepreneurs, mai President Mr. Chanitr Charnchainarong said. “As oil prices climb, alternative energy assumes greater commercial importance, but requires considerable investment and business knowledge to ensure effective management. This seminar will include information on accessing funds through venture capitalists and the capital market,” Mr. Chanitr added. Alternative energy, alternative investment will feature the views of Dr. Pichit Akrathit, President of MFC Asset Management PCL, which manages about THB 4 billion invested in the industry; Mr. Nimit Wongchariyakun, Head of Investment Banking, Capital Nomura Securities PCL, and an experienced advisor to alternative industry firms wishing to list, and Dr. Ugrit Asadatorn, Vice President of the Thai Ethanol Manufacturers Association, and a commercial expert in the area. “The event will present entrepreneurs with interesting business opportunities, while leading firms - such as PTT, PTT Chemical, Bangchak Petroleum, and Thai Oil - will offer invaluable technical know-how,” Dr. Pichit stated. After studying the sector, MFC Asset Management launched the THB 4 billion MFC Energy Fund to invest in alternative energy firms and government-supported projects. The company will have a display and information on the fund at the seminar. The seminar is free-of-charge, and interested people can register by calling SET Call Center 0-2229-2222, or visiting www.mai.or.th