Thailand Approves Crypto Derivatives and ETF Framework

Thailand’s cabinet has approved sweeping regulatory changes allowing digital assets to serve as underlying products in the country’s derivatives market. The move positions Thailand as a frontrunner in Southeast Asia’s digital economy.

🚨 JUST IN: THAILAND’S SEC JUST ANNOUNCED THEY ARE EASING BITCOIN AND CRYPTO TRADING REGULATIONS. pic.twitter.com/7hcTzgPnC2

— Coinwaft (@coinwaft) February 12, 2026

The Finance Ministry’s proposal enables cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin to function as reference assets under the Derivatives Trading Act. This decision marks a significant shift in how Thailand’s regulators view digital assets within capital markets.

The Securities and Exchange Commission will now amend existing legislation to accommodate the new asset classes. These changes aim to modernize Thailand’s derivatives market in line with international standards.

SEC Secretary-General Pornanong Budsaratragoon confirmed the regulatory expansion covers digital assets and carbon credits. The framework strengthens investor protection while promoting market inclusiveness.

Thailand’s Licensing Framework Takes Shape

The SEC is reviewing licensing requirements for derivatives brokers, exchanges, and clearinghouses. New frameworks will ensure these entities can properly handle digital asset-linked products.

Digital asset business operators may now offer derivatives contracts referencing cryptocurrencies. However, appropriate licensing and supervisory requirements must be met first.

Meanwhile, the SEC is coordinating with Thailand Futures Exchange on contract specifications. Product design will align with the risk characteristics of cryptocurrencies in practical market use.

The regulatory push aligns with the Stock Exchange of Thailand’s 2026 business plan. That plan outlined intentions to enable Bitcoin futures and Bitcoin exchange-traded fund investments.

Following cabinet endorsement, detailed rules and regulatory frameworks will be drafted. Licensing requirements for crypto derivatives businesses will also be established.

ETF Rules and Carbon Credit Expansion

Deputy Secretary-General Jomkwan Kongsakul confirmed formal crypto ETF guidelines will arrive in early 2026. The SEC has already approved crypto ETFs in principle.

JUST IN: 🇹🇭 Thailand SEC prepares rules to support crypto ETFs, futures & tokenized products. pic.twitter.com/zNJfcy564t

— Whale Insider (@WhaleInsider) January 22, 2026

Asset management companies must partner with licensed digital asset exchanges. Together, they will develop jointly created products for listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand.

Market makers may be introduced to ensure adequate liquidity for crypto ETFs. Detailed investment and operational rules are currently being finalized.

In parallel, regulatory amendments will reclassify carbon credits as goods rather than variables. This enables physically delivered carbon credit futures alongside cash-settled contracts.

The approach supports Thailand’s long-term carbon neutrality objectives. It also aligns with the draft Climate Change Act currently under consideration.

Nirun Fuwattananukul, chief executive of Binance TH by Gulf Binance, called the approval a watershed moment. He noted that digital assets are no longer merely speculative instruments.

Binance TH plans to support regulators in developing balanced frameworks. The focus remains on innovation alongside robust risk management and consumer protection.

Market participants view the initiative as critical for integrating digital assets into mainstream finance. Cryptocurrencies will transform from standalone products into regulated asset classes.