Matichon Approves 0.10 Baht Per Share Dividend, Accelerates Business Model Restructuring and Cost Control
Matichon's shareholders approved a 0.10 baht per share dividend while the publisher accelerates cost restructuring, including a 90 million baht early retirement program expected to save 36 million baht annually as online advertising now dri
Prapot Bunpan, Managing Director of Matichon Public Company Limited, announced that the first 2025 shareholders' meeting approved a dividend payment of 0.10 baht per share for 185,349,200 shares, totaling 18,534,920 baht, paid from retained earnings after corporate income tax of 30% has been deducted. This dividend rate matches the previous year despite a challenging economic climate. Over the past two years, the company has faced ongoing impacts from the changing media business landscape, similar to other media companies listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET).
Prapot stated that Matichon continues restructuring its revenue streams, with online advertising now generating 52% of total revenue as its primary income source, while special events and activities contribute 27%, and traditional print media advertising accounts for just 20%. Daily newspaper sales have declined with market conditions, though the book publishing business remains strong, with book sales representing 45% of total sales revenue.
A key company initiative involves efficient cost management through an early retirement program, which cost approximately 90 million baht but is expected to yield long-term benefits. Starting from 2025, the company projects annual savings of about 36 million baht in personnel and employee welfare costs, strengthening organizational flexibility for future challenges.
Prapot emphasized that the company currently faces two fundamental challenges: cost reduction and revenue generation. The company has been searching for new business models but hasn't fully succeeded in replacing the traditional model. Matichon is considering a comprehensive review of its operations and cost structure. He stressed that the company has not raised newspaper prices and remains committed to professional journalism standards while seeking business survival.
Regarding financials, current assets total 774 million baht (down 158 million from 933 million in 2024), total assets stand at 1,583 million baht (down 199 million from 1,782 million), and liabilities total 287 million baht (down 30.7 million).
