SEC to expand digital asset framework

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is preparing to introduce a set of new rules early this year to support the rapid growth of digital asset investment, including regulations for crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs), crypto futures trading, and tokenised investment products.

- NUNTAWUN POLKUAMDEE

The Thai regulator is planning to unveil new rules this year that support digital asset investment.

(REUTERS)

The regulatory push reflects Thailand's effort to align its capital market framework with global investment trends, as digital assets gain wider acceptance among institutional and retail investors.

Jomkwan Kongsakul, deputy secretary-general of the SEC, said the regulator plans to issue formal guidelines supporting the establishment of crypto ETFs in Thailand early this year, alongside efforts to enable crypto futures trading on the Thailand Futures Exchange (TFEX).

The SEC also wants to expand the use of digital tokens for investment, moving beyond existing investment tokens to include bond tokens and tokenised fund units. Thailand’s first green token is expected to be launched to support sustainable finance and environmental, social and governance (ESG)-linked investment.

"While there have been some legal and regulatory challenges in the past, this year the SEC will encourage issuers of bond tokens to enter the regulatory sandbox," Ms Jomkwan said.