Deputy PM Defends Son's Firm Against Shuffle Money Allegations
Deputy PM Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn defended his son's company Maxbit against former MP Siriwit Sopha's allegations of financial links to the Shuffle website, stating the firm trades normally on the stock exchange and is properly licensed. Phiphat dismissed the accusations as political retaliation after Siriwit lost three consecutive elections in his constituency, and said his son will clarify the matter next week.
On October 23, 2026, in front of the King Chulalongkorn Memorial at the Dusit Palace Royal Plaza, Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn gave an interview regarding former Democrat MP Siriwit Sopha's insinuation that the Shuffle website has money trails connecting to his son's company. Phiphat said he wants the company to clarify the matter itself, as it is correctly registered on the stock exchange, so any transactions should be explained by the company.
However, regarding Siriwit obtaining information from giving explanations to the SEC, Phiphat said he does not know how that happened, adding it is not information Siriwit could have investigated himself. He suggested it likely came from the SEC or somewhere else, and that executives should come out to clarify, which they likely will next week.
When asked if he views it as normal stock exchange trading, Phiphat said it is a normal trading pattern, not just Maxbit but also Bitkub and many other licensed cryptocurrency companies.
"Frankly, sometimes politicians bring up personal matters — like the fact that he lost in the constituency I oversee. He brings up personal issues to create a spark for himself. I think that's difficult. In the past, I've been through this many times, but after losing three consecutive rounds, I haven't done anything," Phiphat said.
Phiphat added his son can clarify matters himself, noting they spoke by phone last night as his son is abroad. His son said he would clarify after next week. Whether his son will sue is up to the company, not him, as he is not involved.
When asked what he would say if he met Siriwit, Phiphat said he would not need to interfere in what Siriwit does if it is legal. If it's illegal, go ahead. But if it's legal, don't create publicity for yourself — which you don't have anyway. People must learn to be straightforward. He is that kind of person and cannot speak in political language. He will fight back if attacked.
