Thailand to Introduce Crypto ETFs, Futures in New Rules

• Thailand’s SEC to enable cryptocurrency ETFs and futures trading under new regulations.
• Cryptocurrency ETFs allow investors exposure without holding private keys or wallets.
• Futures trading on TFEX provides legal clarity and hedging options for investors.

Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission will introduce new regulations covering crypto ETFs and crypto futures trading this year. The rules will allow crypto ETFs and enable crypto futures trading on the Thailand Futures Exchange (TFEX). 

Deputy Secretary-General Jomkwan Kongsakul said the SEC has already approved crypto ETFs in principle and is finalizing operational guidelines. The move aims to place digital asset investment under clearer legal oversight while expanding regulated market access.

SEC Sets Framework for Crypto ETFs

The Thai SEC plans to release formal guidelines for crypto exchange-traded funds early this year, according to the Bangkok Post. These rules will explain how asset managers and licensed digital asset exchanges can jointly structure ETF products. The SEC board has already approved crypto ETFs in principle.

Jomkwan Kongsakul said crypto ETFs appeal to investors concerned about wallet management and cybersecurity risks. ETFs allow exposure to digital assets without holding private keys. Consequently, investors avoid direct custody responsibilities and hacking concerns.

The SEC is finalizing investment limits, operational requirements and disclosure standards for ETF issuers. However, product approval will require close coordination between asset managers and licensed exchanges. Once completed, eligible products could list on the Stock Exchange of Thailand.

To support trading activity, the regulator is considering market maker mechanisms for crypto ETFs. These participants could include exchanges, financial institutions, and firms holding cryptocurrencies on balance sheets. As a result, the SEC expects tighter spreads and steadier pricing during trading hours.

The regulator stressed that crypto ETFs already trade in overseas markets, including the United States and Hong Kong. Thailand’s rules aim to provide similar access under domestic supervision.

Crypto Futures Trading Planned for TFEX

Alongside ETFs, the SEC is preparing to enable crypto futures trading on the Thailand Futures Exchange. The regulator wants digital assets recognized as an underlying asset class under the Derivatives Act. 

This change would provide legal clarity for crypto-linked derivatives. Under the proposal, crypto futures would trade on TFEX under the Futures Trading Act. Jomkwan said futures contracts could help investors manage risk more effectively. 

Notably, futures allow hedging strategies similar to those used in commodities and equities markets. The SEC is also reviewing liquidity safeguards for futures trading. Market maker participation remains under consideration to improve order depth and price stability. 

However, final rules will define eligibility and capital requirements. Thailand approved its first spot Bitcoin ETF in 2024 through One Asset Management, using a fund-of-funds setup aimed at institutional investors.

Now, regulators want to go beyond just Bitcoin. In October 2025, the SEC started working on wider ETF rules that could later include groups of different digital tokens. However, officials have not disclosed a final product list.

Related: Thailand Moves to Track Crypto and Gold Flows in Real Time

Oversight Expands Across Digital Asset Ecosystem

Beyond investment products, the SEC is tightening oversight across Thailand’s digital asset sector. The regulator plans clearer rules for online financial influencers. Factual market commentary may remain unlicensed, while investment recommendations will require authorization.

The SEC is also collaborating with the Bank of Thailand on a regulatory sandbox for tokenization. Officials think tokenized bonds and fund units could make investing easier for everyday people. Thailand’s first green token is expected to roll out under this setup.

At the same time, the Bank of Thailand is closely watching stablecoin use, including USDT, due to worries about cross-border transfers and grey money. This oversight comes alongside stronger enforcement by the SEC.

Overall, Thailand is building on its 2021 Digital Assets Decree, which made crypto trading and payments legal. Rather than sudden bans, the country has chosen a steady, rule-based approach. Officials say this approach supports market development while maintaining controls.

The Ministry of Finance also introduced a five-year capital gains tax exemption on crypto transactions. That policy aims to attract global digital asset activity. However, crypto payments remain restricted.

Meanwhile, Thailand’s SEC is advancing rules for crypto ETFs, futures trading, and tokenized products within existing laws. The framework involves the SEC, TFEX, asset managers, and licensed exchanges. Regulators say the approach focuses on structured access, defined oversight, and coordinated market development.