- Thai asset management firms requested permission to offer Bitcoin ETFs to clients, highlighting growing interest in cryptocurrency investments.
- Thai SEC is cautious about allowing direct investment in Bitcoin ETFs due to associated high risks, indicating they are carefully weighing the decision.
Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has relaxed cryptocurrency regulations. Now, asset management firms can create private funds offering exposure to US-listed Bitcoin ETFs. However, this opportunity is restricted to institutional and ultra-high-net-worth investors, excluding retail participation.
This action occurs against the backdrop of Bitcoin’s latest price increase, where it reached a record high. The SEC’s decision aligns with the US, where Bitcoin ETFs have been classified as securities, making them eligible for investment through Thailand’s securities firms.
“Asset management firms want exposure to Bitcoin ETFs, but we must weigh the high risk before allowing direct investment,” said the Thai SEC’s Secretary General, Pornanong Budsaratragoon.
While not a widespread opening of the crypto market, this development signals Thailand’s increasing acceptance of Bitcoin as a legitimate investment vehicle for its wealthiest citizens.
