Structural Characteristics and Operational Patterns of Savings Cooperatives in Thailand: A Multivariate Analysis Approach

บทคัดย่อ

Research into the analysis of factor classification and cluster characteristics of savings cooperatives aims to categorise the types of cooperatives and characteristic groups, thereby gaining insight into the structural features of savings cooperatives, including their typical attributes in Thailand. The analysis employed factor analysis and cluster analysis to examine secondary data from the Cooperative Auditing Department, which included performance, business characteristics, and financial data of savings cooperatives for the fiscal year 2022, encompassing comprehensive data for the research period. The study examined 57 variables, comprising cooperative characteristics, data from financial statements including both the balance sheet and profit and loss account, and variables associated with the calculation of financial ratios from 1,356 savings cooperatives. The results from the Exploratory Factor Analysis revealed that only 38 variables were suitable for the model. These variables were organised into seven components, which collectively explained 63.997% of the characteristics of savings cooperatives. The results of the Cluster Analysis, utilising the first component variable, divided the savings cooperatives in Thailand into three clusters. Cluster 1 is a small cluster comprising only three cooperatives that exhibit a maturity stage of operation. Cluster 2 consists of small cooperatives in the early stage, characterised by a high growth rate across various dimensions, along with significant investment and asset returns. Cluster 3 represents an expanding cooperative. The findings of the study align with certain classifications of cooperatives as stipulated by formal regulations. They reflect the similarities prevalent among most types of small cooperatives; however, notable differences remain within larger cooperatives. Hence, Regulatory oversight should emphasise debt sustainability monitoring for mature-stage cooperatives and balanced growth management with early warning indicators for expanding-stage cooperatives.