Thailand crypto ETFs may see slow start despite new rules: CoinShares

Thailand’s first crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs) may get off to a slow start despite Bangkok’s efforts to expand access to regulated digital asset investments.

“I would expect modest inflows initially, with tens of millions of US dollars across the first products a more realistic starting expectation than billions,” James Butterfill, head of research at digital asset investment firm CoinShares, told Cointelegraph.

The country opens a new route for crypto exposure on Friday as its rules for Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) ETFs to list on the Stock Exchange of Thailand take effect.

The rules will allow retail Thai investors to access locally listed crypto ETFs, while restricting overseas crypto ETF investments through domestic brokers to institutional and ultra-high-net-worth investors.

Thailand’s first crypto funds will need regulatory approval and the necessary custody and distribution arrangements before trading can begin.

Hong Kong offers a cautionary comparison

Butterfill pointed to Hong Kong as an example of how even a major financial center can struggle to attract substantial crypto ETF inflows.

Hong Kong accounts for just 0.42% of assets in global crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs) despite the city’s status as an international financial hub, he said.