Even in the midst of an economic crisis, it seems there's always someone ready to make a quick buck, or baht.

On one Bangkok street last week, a boy rented out tennis balls to some of the country's top entrepreneurs. His customers, who now style themselves the "former rich", arrived at the scene in luxury cars and even by private plane. They then threw the balls at effigies of Thailand's politicians, whom they hold responsible for their economic woes.

The young lad said former prime minister, Mr Chavalit Yongchaiyudh, was the most popular target. He also gave out a prize for those who hit all three balls on target a "formerly rich" handkerchief for wiping away the tears when they thought of their losses.