Thailand Greenlights Crypto ETFs & Futures: Early 2026 Launch to Supercharge Digital Asset Access

Thailand is set to approve crypto ETFs and futures, targeting an early 2026 launch to boost access to digital assets.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Thailand is working on regulations to introduce cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and futures trading, with a launch planned for early 2026. The new rules will categorize crypto as its own asset type, letting institutional and individual investors put up to 5% of their funds into these products. Important protections will include strict rules for licensed custodians, liquidity through market makers, and strong steps to lower risks like hacking and cybersecurity issues.

The SEC has already approved the idea of crypto ETFs and is now completing guidelines that cover which assets can be included—mainly focusing on liquid cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum—along with clear pricing and the required use of regulated custodians. The plan also includes crypto futures, which will be recognized and traded on the Thailand Futures Exchange under the current Derivatives Act. The SEC, digital asset exchanges, and asset managers will work together to ensure the plan is carried out smoothly and that investors are protected.

These changes are part of Thailand’s goal to become a top digital asset center in Southeast Asia. Alongside the ETF and futures push, the Bank of Thailand has started a tokenization sandbox, starting with government bond tokens. Also, platforms like KuCoin have been involved in earlier government-supported digital asset programs. By allowing indirect access through regulated ETFs and futures—without needing investors to handle wallets themselves—the initiative aims to broaden access, attract institutional money, and encourage new ideas in the region’s fast-changing crypto market.