Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced a significant change to the government's 450 billion baht ($13.1 billion) digital wallet stimulus, stating that part of the funds would now be distributed in cash instead of through a smartphone app as initially planned. The program, aimed at revitalizing the sluggish economy, has faced criticism for being fiscally irresponsible, with concerns raised about the potential risks to five state-run banks involved in financing the initiative. Economists have highlighted ongoing uncertainties regarding the funding and implementation of the plan, which is expected to roll out in the final quarter of the year. Further details will be provided in a forthcoming parliamentary policy statement. The shift occurs amid broader economic challenges, as Thailand's growth remains behind its regional peers, prompting a need for clarity on the government's fiscal strategies. The program was a central component of the ruling Pheu Thai Party's election platform, and former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra supports the inclusion of cash payments for vulnerable groups.