Thailand has introduced a new policy that allows digital assets to be used as collateral for products in its derivatives and capital markets.
The cabinet accepted a plan from the Finance Ministry that would allow cryptocurrencies and other digital assets to serve as underlying assets.
Local news media, including the Bangkok Post, noted that the decision aims to update the country’s market framework to align with global practices.
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Officials also aim to improve oversight, raise investor protection standards, and build a clearer path for Thailand to grow as a regional center for institutional crypto activity.
The next step falls to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The agency will revise the Derivatives Act to include the new asset types.
Bitcoin
and carbon credits are on the list, which indicates that the changes apply to several emerging asset categories, not just cryptocurrencies.
Nirun Fuwattananukul, chief executive of Binance
$5.99B
Thailand, said, “The decision to formally recognize digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and digital tokens <…> reflects a growing understanding that digital assets are no longer merely speculative instruments, but an emerging asset class with the potential to reshape the foundations of capital markets”.
He added that it was a “watershed moment” for the country’s capital markets, sending a “strong signal” that Thailand is positioning itself as a “forward-looking leader” in Southeast Asia’s digital economy.
Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) recently announced new rules that allow licensed brokers to offer margin financing for digital assets. What do the rules cover? Read the full story.
