Thailand Finalizes Rules for Bitcoin and Ether ETFs on Its Main Stock Exchange

Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission finalized rules on Thursday that allow crypto exchange-traded funds to list on the country’s main stock exchange, starting with Bitcoin and Ether only. The framework takes effect on Oct. 16, 2026, and requires these funds to trade exclusively on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Bitkub Group co-founder Attakrit Chimphlapibul pointed to the US launch of spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs as proof that such products open an easy path to digital assets for institutional and retail investors.

Rules for Foreign Crypto ETFs and Fund Investors

Products linked to foreign crypto ETFs, such as depositary receipts, will not be allowed at first. Thai brokers also remain barred from helping retail clients invest in overseas crypto ETFs, with exceptions only for institutions and ultra-high-net-worth individuals. The regulator also amended its rules so mutual funds and private funds can invest in Thai-established crypto ETFs, whereas before they could hold only foreign ones.

Investor Protection and Fund Requirements

Brokers cannot offer margin loans for buying crypto ETFs, and fund assets must sit with SEC regulated digital asset custodians. Investors must receive product information and confirm they understand the risks before trading. Each ETF must be passively managed to track the price of its crypto asset and keep net exposure to a single cryptocurrency averaging at least 80% of net asset value over each accounting year. The regulator ran consultations on the principles in April and May and on draft regulations in August and September, and most respondents backed the proposals.