The post Thailand Approves Bitcoin for Derivatives Market, Crypto ETFs Could Follow appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Thailand just opened the door for Bitcoin in its regulated derivatives market. The Thai Cabinet approved changes to the country’s Derivatives Act that allow digital assets like Bitcoin to be used as underlying assets for futures and options contracts.

The country’s crypto market is already valued at $3

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Binance Thailand Reacts

Nirun Fuwattananukul, CEO of Binance Thailand, called the move a “watershed moment” for the country’s capital markets.

“It sends a strong signal that Thailand is positioning itself as a forward-looking leader in Southeast Asia’s digital economy,” he said.

He added that digital assets are now seen as assets that can reshape capital markets.

Crypto Payments Still Banned

Worth noting: while Thailand is welcoming institutional crypto activity, the central bank still bans crypto payments. The government also launched an anti-money laundering campaign in January targeting crypto-linked “gray money.”

The next steps to watch are the SEC’s rule drafting timeline, TFEX product launches, and whether this puts pressure on Singapore and Hong Kong to keep pace.

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FAQs

Can retail investors trade Bitcoin futures in Thailand?

Access will likely depend on investor classification and suitability rules set by the SEC and TFEX. Retail participation may be allowed, but with leverage limits, disclosure requirements, and risk warnings to reduce speculative harm.

How could a pause in U.S. crypto bank charters affect customers?

A delay may slow the rollout of federally supervised crypto banking services, including custody and payments. Customers could face fewer regulated options and continued reliance on state-chartered or offshore entities.

Could Thailand’s move influence other Asian financial hubs?

Yes. Regulatory competition is common in capital markets, and expanded crypto derivatives in Thailand may prompt policymakers in Singapore or Hong Kong to reassess their own product timelines and frameworks.

What risks do regulators weigh before approving crypto-linked derivatives?

Authorities typically assess market manipulation, custody safeguards, clearinghouse stability, and investor protection standards. Stress testing and margin rules are often used to limit systemic spillover if prices swing sharply.