We have taken a historic step this morning in the Thai kingdom đčđ towards the Crypto sector.
Crypto has transitioned from being seen by many in the jungle as "gambling" to a situation where the government itself officially recognizes it as a "true asset class."
The shifts in Thailand's Crypto sector.
Khun Niran (Nirun Fuwattananukul), the CEO of Binance Thailand, referred to this situation as a "Watershed Moment." This means that Crypto has transitioned from speculative play to becoming a foundational pillar of the actual Capital Market.
What is happening?
The Thai government has confirmed the Ministry of Finance's proposal and allowed Digital Assets to be used as Underlying Assets in the Derivatives market.
To put it simply... previously thought of as just numbers on paper, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are now being treated as real assets with actual value, similar to gold and oil, and will be used as collateral in the market.
Why is this step shaking everyone?
This change has opened the door for Institutional Investors rather than ordinary users.
1. It will align with international standards.
Thailand wants to be a leader in Southeast Asia's Digital Economy. Therefore, they are raising their regulations to align with international standards.
2. Bitcoin Futures will come.
By 2026, the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) is preparing to introduce Bitcoin Futures and ETFs. This is a sign that wealthy individuals and large companies will begin to flow into Crypto.
3. Carbon Credits will come in.
Interestingly, in addition to Bitcoin, Carbon Credits have also been included in this list. This indicates a commitment to a Green Economy in line with global environmental standards.
But... everything is not a flower garden path yet!
Amid the good news, there are still points to note. Thailand supports Crypto as "investment" but has not yet permitted it as "payment" up to now.
You still can't buy coffee with Crypto.
The Bank of Thailand is still prohibiting the use of Crypto for payments.
Gray Money Campaign
Since January, the crackdown on "black money" has been gaining momentum. The government is closely monitoring the use of Crypto for money laundering.
Strict KYC
There are apps for tourists to exchange Crypto for Thai Baht, but KYC (Identity Verification) is very strict.
By looking at this, the Thai government only wants "systematic and controlled development." They do not want it to become too free and chaotic.
What should you do next?
"Speculation" has turned into "Asset." Don't expect Crypto to make you rich overnight like a lottery ticket. Even neighboring countries are now accepting this as part of a real investment market. Start seeking knowledge first.
Regulation is not the enemy. Regulations introduced by governments are not meant to destroy the market, but to build confidence for Institutional Money to come in. Where there is confidence, there is cash flow.
It requires a long-term perspective. The volume of trading on exchanges like Bitkub in Thailand, at around $65 million a day, is not a small amount. However, successful individuals are those who can systematically diversify their portfolios rather than those who become wealthy overnight.
What do you friends think? Do you still see Crypto as just gambling? Or do you believe itâs an opportunity for the future?
This step by Thailand sends a signal to the whole of Southeast Asia. "Digital Assets will not disappear; they will enter the system in a more robust form."