Asia Plus Securities, the Thailand-based securities company, has announced plans to launch derivative warrants in March this year, in a bid to boost returns for its high net-worth clients.

The products' launch will depend on the common stock of energy giant PTT Plc, with the initial public offering scheduled for 8 to 12 March. Derivative warrants, like conventional warrants, grant buyers the right, but not the obligation, to purchase a given stock at a fixed price and amount. When the stock matures, investors exercise rights and settle in cash, instead of exchanging shares.

In a statement, the company said that the warrants will be primarily based on energy and banking stocks for every month throughout the year. Also included in the suite of product offerings are over-the-counter derivatives and equity-linked notes.

"ASP will be the second broker that offers DWs [derivative warrants] and other structured products such as equity-linked notes. Investors interested in wealth management service must understand the risks and returns on investment, as they are investing in complex products tied to both the local and overseas markets," said Krisada Sawamipahkdi, the senior executive vice president for Asia Plus.

ASP will target customers from its existing client base, as well as institutional and high net worth investors. Beyond customised investment products, the company will also be opening up opportunities to invest in markets overseas and other value-added advisory services.

Investors looking to tap the firm's wealth management unit must set up a portfolio of at least 30 million baht ($904 million), to be managed as private funds via Asia Plus Fund Management. The company is awaiting approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission for its own private fund licence.