## 1 Introduction  
An essential developmental goal for emerging economies like Thailand is the continuous enhancement of individual and household income, while addressing the pervasive issue of inequality. Achieving this goal is pivotal for the nation's transition to a high-income level. However, this objective is complex and far from straightforward, as developmental trajectories vary among countries and are not deterministic ([PERSON], 2022). Therefore, Thailand needs a tailored approach, one that is contextually grounded, to effectively improve individual and household income. Household income, as one of the crucial indicators of welfare, is shaped by various elements, ranging from demographic factors, employment, and education at the household level, and broader influences like economic shocks, government policies, population dynamics, and the evolution and development of various economic sectors ([PERSON] and [PERSON], 2015; [PERSON], 1997; [PERSON] and [PERSON], 2007; [PERSON] and [PERSON], 2012). Traditionally, the impact of sectoral shifts on income has been understood as a linear progression: starting from agriculture, moving to industrial, then to service sectors, and ultimately to knowledge-based industries ([PERSON], 2009; [PERSON], 2009). However, this linear perspective fails to fully capture the complex interactions among different sectors and their collective impact on household income. Therefore, the primary aim of this research is to provide a more comprehensive understanding of how various economic sectors influence household income. This research is undertaken in the context of a significant economic stimulus initiative, the \"digital wallet\" scheme. The scheme, spearheaded by the current Thai government led by the Pheu Thai Party formed in 2023, involves issuing a one-time electronic cash incentive of 10,000 Baht (approximately USD280) to eligible citizens. This proposed economic stimulus effort, set for 2024, is designed to rejuvenate the economy, with a particular focus on benefiting the retail, service, and tourism sectors. It is expected to impact 50 million individuals and support around 2.4 million small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in 2024.1 Experts predict it could enhance the Thai economy by 1.5 to 2 percentage points, potentially leading to a growth rate of around 5%, which is higher than previous forecasts.2  
One key aspect of this one-time stimulus is the scope of eligible spending. The scheme allows recipients to purchase general products, food and beverages, and consumable goods within six months of receipt. However, electronic cash in the digital wallet cannot be used for services, online purchases, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, marijuana, kratom (plant leaves used for their stimulant and pain-relieving effects), vouchers, gold, diamonds, gemstones, debt payments, education, or utility fees.3 While the focus on essential goods and food suggests that the funds will rapidly enter the economy within a short period, there is no empirical study or explanation of how this scheme could lead to long-term benefits. The Pheu Thai Party also claims that the scheme aims to alleviate poverty, improve welfare, and boost income at the grassroots level.4 A significant aspect of this scheme is that the electronic cash is to be spent within the district of the recipient's residence. This condition is intended to stimulate local economies and distribute income more evenly across the country by encouraging spending within local communities. However, it will likely be funded through government loans, amounting to around 500 billion Baht (approximately 3% of Thailand's GDP), which has raised questions about fiscal responsibility and potential constitutional and legal issues.5; 6 Eligibility for the scheme has been a point of debate.