Eased rules pave way for fresh options.

Byline: Somporn Parnsoonthorn

Mar. 21--Economic uncertainties and growing market volatility notwithstanding, the Thai mutual fund industry is poised to enjoy another banner year in 2005, according to market experts.

Short-term fixed-income and property funds in particular are set to flourish, according to Maris Tarab, vice-chairman of the Association of Investment Management Companies.

Mr Maris, who is also president of ING Mutual Fund, said the industry overall could expect 25 percent growth this year.

At the end of 2004, total assets managed in the fund industry, including private, provident, retirement and foreign investment funds, stood at 1.12 trillion baht, on par with the year before.

But assets under management remained stable even …