Market Intelligence

Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has introduced a regulatory framework permitting the establishment and management of cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (crypto ETFs) in Thailand. Effective October 16, 2026, the framework establishes requirements for spot-trade crypto ETFs, listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), delegated digital asset investment management, and digital asset custody arrangements, while restricting margin loan trading and limiting retail access to foreign crypto ETFs.

Certain securities, derivatives, and treasury activities in Thailand were opened to foreign investors when Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce published two new ministerial regulations in the Government Gazette on August 28, 2026. The regulations significantly broaden the service activities that foreign-owned businesses may conduct without a license or certificate under the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542, as amended (FBA).

On August 21, 2026, Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) published two consultation papers that would broaden regulated access to crypto assets while tightening custody standards. The first proposes a framework for establishing crypto exchange-traded funds (crypto ETFs) in Thailand.

The Bank of Thailand is proposing a comprehensive regulatory overhaul for licensed money changers that would raise licensing standards, require existing operators to undergo mandatory upgrades, and temporarily freeze new applications throughout 2027. The reforms aim to prevent financial crime and enhance public confidence...

The Bank of Thailand (BOT) is seeking public comment on proposed amendments that would significantly expand know-your-customer (KYC) and customer due diligence (CDD) requirements for cash-related transactions at financial institutions (FIs) and specialized financial institutions (SFIs).

Thailand's central bank has proposed sweeping changes to digital banking security rules that would phase out SMS-based authentication and mandate biometric verification for large transactions. The draft notification extends security requirements beyond mobile banking to internet channels and nonbank providers, responding to evolving fraud tactics targeting gaps in the current regulatory framework.