Thailand Opens the Door to Bitcoin and Ether ETFs on Stock Exchange

Thailand has approved rules allowing spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs to trade on the Stock Exchange of Thailand from October 16, 2026. The move opens a regulated way for retail and institutional investors to gain crypto exposure through local investment funds. 

However, the rules are not an approval of specific ETF products, and strict safeguards will apply.

Thailand Finalizes Bitcoin and Ether ETF Rules

On October 8, Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) finalized 11 notices setting rules for crypto ETFs. The rules aim to give investors more choices while keeping their money safer.

Under the new rules, each ETF must follow the price of just one cryptocurrency. At first, the funds can only track Bitcoin or Ether. Each fund must keep at least 80% of its value invested in the chosen cryptocurrency, on average over the financial year.

The SEC also set rules for how these crypto assets must be stored. Funds must use local crypto custodians approved by the Thai SEC.

Asset management companies must also show that they have the right staff, systems and service providers to run these funds safely.

Thailand Blocks Margin Loans for Crypto ETF Investors

Alongside the custody requirements, the SEC has introduced safeguards against excessive borrowing. Brokerages will be prohibited from offering margin loans or leveraged financing to investors purchasing crypto ETFs.

At the same time, the rules expand access for domestic investment firms. Thai mutual funds and private funds will be allowed to invest in locally established crypto ETFs, creating another route for institutional capital to enter the market.

However, retail investors will remain restricted from investing through overseas crypto ETFs and related depositary receipts offered by Thai brokerages. Such access is reserved for institutional investors and ultra-high-net-worth individuals.

No ETF Launches Confirmed Yet

Although the framework takes effect on October 16, the SEC has not approved any specific Bitcoin or Ether ETF products yet.

The new rules establish the conditions for funds to enter the market, but actual launches will depend on products meeting the requirements. 

The availability of suitable products and market liquidity will therefore remain important factors as Thailand opens its stock exchange to regulated crypto investment.