In a landmark move for the cryptocurrency market, the Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved the country’s first spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF). This significant step marks a pivotal moment in the mainstream adoption of digital assets within Thailand, offering investors a regulated and accessible way to gain exposure to Bitcoin. The approval of this ETF is anticipated to have profound implications for both local and global crypto markets, signaling a growing institutional confidence and regulatory support for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
One Asset Management (ONEAM) has been endorsed by the Thailand SEC to launch the first spot Bitcoin ETF in the country. The ONE Bitcoin ETF Fund of Funds Unhedged, not for retail investors (ONE-BTCETFOF-UI), is specifically targeted at wealthy and institutional investors. Available from May 31 to June 6, this fund aims to invest in 11 leading global funds, ensuring liquidity and safety. Coin storage adheres to international standards and is reviewed by regulatory agencies in the US and Hong Kong.
MFC Asset Management is also seeking SEC approval for a similar Bitcoin ETF aimed at institutional investors. ONEAM’s chief executive, Pote Harinasuta, emphasized the low correlation of digital assets with other financial assets, making them suitable for diversifying investment risks. Globally, Bitcoin ETFs are gaining traction, with recent approvals from the US SEC and Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission.
Thailand’s SEC had earlier amended regulations to allow asset management firms to launch private funds investing in U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs, following the U.S. SEC’s approval in January. This aligns with the global trend of increased investor confidence in Bitcoin ETFs. SEC secretary-general Pornanong Budsaratragoon highlighted the high-risk nature of these investments despite growing institutional demand.
Pote Harinasuta noted Bitcoin’s potential for high returns, citing an average annual return of 124% over the past 11 years, contrasted with high volatility at 83%. He advised limiting Bitcoin exposure to 5% of a portfolio, aiming for a return of 8.90% per year. Investing through ETFs provides security, as unitholders’ data and coins are stored offline by custodians, mitigating risks such as data loss or theft.
The approval and launch of the One Bitcoin ETF are expected to create significant ripples across the region. This development could potentially encourage other countries to explore similar financial products, thereby increasing the availability of regulated cryptocurrency investment options. The ETF’s approval demonstrates the growing acceptance of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as legitimate investment vehicles in the global financial system.
The One Bitcoin ETF is restricted to institutional investors and high net worth individuals, ensuring that participants have the financial sophistication and risk tolerance required for such investments. This measure protects less experienced investors from the potential volatility and complexities of the cryptocurrency market. The introduction of regulated and secure investment options like the Bitcoin ETF marks a pivotal shift towards integrating cryptocurrencies within traditional financial systems.
