Thailand’s government has approved a significant policy shift that allows digital assets to be used as underlying assets in derivatives and capital markets, marking a strategic move toward modernizing the country’s financial infrastructure. The proposal from the Finance Ministry, now endorsed by officials, aims to align Thailand’s regulatory framework with international standards, fostering a more robust and transparent environment for digital asset trading and investment.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Thailand will proceed with amendments to the Derivatives Act to facilitate the inclusion of digital assets such as Bitcoin and carbon credits as eligible underlying securities. This legislative adjustment reflects a broader recognition of digital assets as a legitimate asset class, moving beyond their traditional perception as speculative instruments. Such a development is expected to bolster investor confidence, particularly among institutional players, and position Thailand as a regional hub for advanced crypto trading activities.
Industry experts view this development as a watershed moment, signaling Thailand’s commitment to integrating digital assets into mainstream financial markets. The move complements broader initiatives, such as the Stock Exchange of Thailand’s planned introduction of Bitcoin futures and exchange-traded products by 2026. These steps are aligned with the country’s ambitions to attract high-net-worth institutional investors and to foster a more inclusive financial environment.
Despite these advancements, retail use of cryptocurrencies remains restricted. The central bank continues to prohibit the direct use of crypto for payments, and consumer stablecoins are under tight regulation. While the government launched an app in August that allows tourists to convert crypto to local currency, the service is limited to government-approved outlets with strict KYC procedures. Furthermore, anti-money laundering campaigns targeting cryptocurrency activities signal a cautious approach to digital assets, emphasizing regulatory vigilance as Thailand navigates this emerging market segment.
