Thailand Crypto ETFs to Receive New SEC Guidelines in 2026

Thailand is planning out new rules to expand its digital asset market. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of the country is going to support crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs), crypto futures trading and tokenised investment products. With this move it shows how Thailand is aiming to become a leading crypto space in Southeast Asia.

New Guidelines for Crypto ETFs 

SEC Deputy Secretary-General Jomkwan Kongsakul said that Thailand will release regulatory guidelines for crypto ETFs in early 2026. These rules will help companies to understand how to work with crypto ETFs under the Thai laws. 

The goal of this is to make investors feel safe and have proper access to digital assets. Also, ETF is a way to let people get exposed to crypto without directly having tokens. Which is why this structure is most likely to attract all kinds of investors.

Crypto Futures Trading to Expand on TFEX

Thailand also plans to grow crypto futures trading on the Thailand Futures Exchange (TFEX). Furthermore, the SEC wants to introduce market maker mechanisms to improve liquidity and price stability too. Market makers are what helps to reduce risks by always giving buy and sell orders. Thus makes trading smoother and more reliable for the investors.

By supporting futures trading, Thailand aims to offer advanced financial tools that are like those in the traditional markets. Officials also believe that this will make more professional and institutional users participate.

Digital Assets to Become an Official Asset Class

Another huge step includes legal recognition. Thailand plans to officially classify digital assets as an asset class under the Derivatives Act. This change would place crypto right next to stocks, bonds and commodities in the legal framework. Also giving regulators authority that feels clearer and stronger protection for the investors. Officials say that this recognition is important for long-term market growth and its confidence.

Building on Earlier Crypto-Friendly Laws

These plans are built on Thailand’s 2021 Digital Assets Decree, which legalised crypto trading and payments. Since then Thailand has always been open to blockchain use and are still adding new rules and trying out new things.

Moreover, Thailand has avoided any sudden bans and instead given importance to getting the structures right. This approach has helped the market to grow properly while also minimizing the amount of risks.

Institutional Interest Could Follow

The new Thailand crypto ETFs rules could increase the liquidity for tokenised securities and get more capital from the world. Analysts also say that there’s a similarity with Hong Kong’s 2024 spot crypto ETF launch. Which gained more than $1 billion in inflows. If Thailand succeeds with this plan, it could become a huge space for regulated crypto investment in Asia.