Thailand’s SEC introduces new rules for crypto ETFs, allowing Bitcoin and Ethereum investments
Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has introduced new regulations allowing the establishment of cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs), initially limited to Bitcoin and Ethereum. The rules aim to expand investment opportunities while strengthening investor protection and oversight of digital asset investments.
The new framework, announced on 8 October 2026, will take effect on 16 October 2026 and includes 11 regulatory notifications covering the establishment, management, custody and supervision of crypto ETFs.
Under the rules, crypto ETFs must operate as passive investment funds that track the price of an underlying cryptocurrency, maintaining an average net exposure of at least 80% of their net asset value (NAV) to a single crypto asset over each accounting year.
Crypto ETFs will be listed and traded exclusively on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), with digital assets held by SEC-regulated custodians. Asset management companies may also outsource digital asset investment management to licensed digital asset fund managers.
To protect investors, the SEC will require risk disclosures, investor education and confirmation that investors understand the risks before trading. Securities firms will also be prohibited from offering margin loans to purchase crypto ETFs.
The regulations further allow mutual funds and private funds to invest in Thai crypto ETFs, subject to existing investment limits. Previously, these funds were permitted to invest only in foreign crypto ETFs.
During the initial phase, the SEC will restrict certain products linked to foreign crypto ETFs, including depositary receipts, and limit securities firms from facilitating foreign crypto ETF investments for retail clients outside specified investor categories.
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