Thailand is introducing new cryptocurrency regulations on October 16, allowing local asset managers to offer Bitcoin and Ether exchange-traded funds (ETFs) through the country’s stock exchange.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced the framework on Thursday, establishing a regulated way for investors to access cryptocurrency markets through traditional investment products.
Under the new rules, crypto ETFs must be listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand and track only one cryptocurrency. Each fund must maintain exposure to its underlying asset equivalent to at least 80% of its net asset value. Bitcoin and Ether will be the only approved assets at launch, the regulator said.
Investors must acknowledge the risks before purchasing these products. Brokers will not be permitted to lend money to clients for cryptocurrency investments, and ETF holdings must be stored with digital-asset custodians licensed by Thailand’s SEC.
The framework creates a domestic alternative for Thai investors who previously had limited access to cryptocurrency ETFs. Until now, only institutional and wealthy investors could invest in foreign crypto ETFs under Thailand’s existing rules. The regulator signaled last year that it wanted to expand access to these products beyond Bitcoin.
The updated regulations also allow Thai asset managers to appoint licensed digital-asset fund managers to handle cryptocurrency investments. Qualified digital-asset custodians and other eligible companies can register as supervisors overseeing crypto ETF operations.
Additionally, the SEC has amended its rules to permit mutual funds and private funds to invest in locally listed cryptocurrency ETFs, subject to existing investment restrictions. However, the initial framework excludes products that give retail investors indirect exposure to overseas crypto ETFs, including depositary receipts.
By bringing Bitcoin and Ether ETFs into the country’s conventional investment infrastructure, Thailand is expanding access to digital assets while maintaining requirements for secure custody, risk disclosure and investor suitability. The initiative follows the regulator’s 2025 plans to broaden its ETF market beyond Bitcoin.
Thailand also has a significant cryptocurrency user base. Data attributed to World indicates that around 20% of the country’s population owns cryptocurrency, compared with 13% in the United States. The reported ownership rate is also higher than the approximately 19.4% recorded in Nigeria, the Philippines and South Africa.
