Thailand SEC to Launch Blockchain-Based Digital Token Trading Platform



The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Thailand is moving forward with a groundbreaking initiative to develop a distributed ledger technology (DLT) trading platform, enabling securities firms to trade digital tokens. The development comes as token investments continue to attract growing interest from investors, according to a recent report by the Bangkok Post.

Jomkwan Kongsakul, deputy secretary-general of the Thailand SEC, highlighted the regulatory body’s efforts to modernize the capital market by leveraging advanced technologies.

“The SEC is leveraging technology to enhance efficiency in the capital market by promoting an electronic securities ecosystem,” Kongsakul said. She added that the regulator is preparing new rules to support the issuance of electronic securities and facilitate online debenture purchases.

Full Digitalization of Bond Trading

The Thai SEC’s forthcoming DLT platform will encompass both primary and secondary bond markets, handling critical processes such as settlement, trading, payment systems, investor registration, and multiple blockchain support. Although the regulator did not specify the blockchain networks involved, Kongsakul hinted at interoperability, stating, “In the future, there may be multiple chains for trade. Trading through DLT on all systems is connected by a shared ledger, which is expected to be completed soon.”

Two categories of securities are set to be launched under the new system: tokenized traditional securities and digital-native electronic securities. Four digital token projects have already received approval to operate on the SEC’s platform, with two additional projects — focusing on green tokens and investment-based initiatives — currently under review.

Thailand Eyes Broader Crypto Developments

Despite advancements in digital securities, Thailand maintains strict regulations on cryptocurrency usage for payments. Nevertheless, regulators are exploring new possibilities. A Bitcoin payment sandbox is set to launch later this year in Phuket, aimed at providing tourists with an alternative payment method while helping regulators assess associated risks in a controlled environment.

Adding to the evolving crypto landscape, former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra recently supported stablecoins and asset-backed digital tokens, asserting there was “no risk” in permitting their trade. Furthermore, reports from January suggest that the Thai government is considering launching a stablecoin backed by government bonds, although no official confirmation has been issued.



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