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ZEC $1,226 Thailand finalizes rules paving way for Bitcoin, Ether ETFs
Thailand's SEC finalized a framework for crypto ETFs limited to Bitcoin and Ether, effective Oct. 16, 2026, with an 80% exposure rule.
Key takeaways
- Eleven regulations cleared. Thailand finalized 11 regulations, with an effective date of October 16, 2026.
- 80% exposure rule. Every eligible ETF must average at least 80% of net asset value in a single cryptocurrency each accounting year.
- Two coins first. Bitcoin and Ether are the only eligible cryptocurrencies during the initial stage.
What happened
Thailand's Securities and Exchange Commission finalized rules that allow crypto exchange-traded funds to list on the country's main stock exchange, limited initially to Bitcoin and Ether. The regulator announced the framework on October 8, and the rules take effect on Oct. 16, 2026.
Crypto ETFs must trade only on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Products linked to foreign crypto ETFs, such as depositary receipts, are not permitted at first. Thai brokers cannot sell foreign alternatives to retail customers or offer margin loans for crypto ETFs.
The framework requires fund assets to be held with digital asset custodians licensed and supervised in Thailand. Investors must receive information about the products and confirm that they understand the risks before trading.
The SEC amended its rules so mutual funds and private funds can invest in Thai-established crypto ETFs. Previously they could invest only in foreign crypto ETFs.
Custody providers and other qualified digital asset businesses may apply to become mutual fund supervisors for crypto ETFs under Section 121 of Thailand's Securities and Exchange Act.
Why it matters
The framework gives Thai investors a route to gain exposure to Bitcoin and Ether through regulated securities products without directly purchasing or storing the digital assets. Each crypto ETF must operate as a passive fund that tracks the price of its underlying cryptocurrency.
Attakrit Chimphlapibul, co-founder of Bitkub Group, said previous U.S. launches of spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs created new avenues for institutional and retail investors to access digital assets.
The SEC requires each fund to keep an average net exposure of at least 80% of net asset value to a single eligible cryptocurrency over each accounting year. Fund managers must also show qualified employees, adequate operating systems and suitable arrangements with service providers.
What the data shows
Thailand finalized 11 regulations for the framework.
Each eligible ETF must keep an average net exposure of at least 80% of net asset value to one cryptocurrency over each accounting year.
The SEC consulted on policy principles in April and May and on draft notifications in August and September.
Background
Thailand had advanced its Bitcoin and Ether ETF regulations to the draft stage in August, proposing the same 80% exposure requirement.
Most respondents supported the proposals during the consultations, the regulator said.
The October 16 effective date does not mean individual ETFs will begin trading that day. Fund managers must first satisfy the applicable requirements.
What is still unclear
- The SEC left open the possibility of permitting qualified overseas custodians in the future when it considers such arrangements appropriate.
- Future additions to the eligible cryptocurrency list will depend on factors including liquidity, market acceptance, blockchain network security and investor protection standards.
Questions readers ask
When do Thailand's crypto ETF rules take effect?
The rules take effect on Oct. 16, 2026. The SEC announced the framework on October 8.
Which cryptocurrencies can Thai crypto ETFs track?
Bitcoin and Ether are the only eligible cryptocurrencies during the initial stage. Future additions will depend on factors including liquidity, market acceptance, blockchain network security and investor protection standards.
Can Thai brokers offer margin loans for crypto ETFs?
No. The framework prohibits brokers from providing margin loans to purchase crypto ETFs. Brokers also cannot sell foreign alternatives to retail customers.
Will individual crypto ETFs start trading on October 16?
Not necessarily. The October 16 effective date does not mean individual ETFs will begin trading that day, as fund managers must first meet the applicable requirements.
