Thailand Plans Wider Crypto ETFs Beyond Bitcoin

Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is preparing rules to broaden cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs) beyond Bitcoin.

Alongside this effort, regulators are tightening oversight of digital asset businesses through new auditor approval requirements.

Thailand Prepares Framework for Expanded Crypto ETFs

Thailand’s SEC is drafting regulations that could allow mutual funds and institutional investors to launch cryptocurrency ETFs covering more than just Bitcoin.

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“Our possibility now is to broaden the criteria for the crypto such as a basket of cryptocurrencies,” SEC secretary-general Pornanong Budsaratragoon said.

Currently, Thai investors can access crypto by buying tokens directly. They can also invest through licensed asset managers who use overseas ETFs. The new initiative would enable domestic offerings of crypto ETFs. It provides easier access to diversified digital asset products.

Regulators see the move as part of efforts to make tokenized instruments mainstream investment options. The Stock Exchange of Thailand has fallen 7.6% this year, and officials note that younger investors in particular are seeking alternative assets to diversify their portfolios.

The ETF initiative underscores Thailand’s ambition to become a regional digital asset hub. Regulators also note that expanded access requires safeguards. These measures address risks such as market volatility and potential misconduct.

SEC Pushes for Stronger Oversight

In tandem with its ETF plans, the SEC is pursuing measures to expand its enforcement powers. A proposed bill under parliamentary review would allow the agency to suspend transactions if irregularities are detected and investigate market-impacting cases such as insider trading.

Currently, enforcement relies heavily on limited police resources. Granting the SEC broader authority is seen as essential to restoring investor confidence and ensuring that misconduct in digital markets is addressed more swiftly.

Alongside the legislative push, the SEC announced regulatory changes for all licensed digital asset businesses. Firms that manage or transfer customer funds must now use SEC-approved auditors. Effective October 2025, the revision expands the requirement beyond exchanges and brokers to include more operators. The measure aims to strengthen internal controls and enhance investor protection as crypto activity grows.

Together, these initiatives highlight the regulator’s dual strategy: expanding investment opportunities while reinforcing the institutional safeguards needed to support them.

The rise of digital assets in Thailand is attracting attention from both domestic and global players. Binance and Kasikornbank are stepping up their presence in the market, while former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra remains an outspoken supporter of cryptocurrencies.