Thailand SEC Launches Digital Asset Sandbox for Testing

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Hongji Feng

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Hongji Feng

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Hongji is a crypto and tech reporter. He graduated from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism with a Bachelor's and a Master's. He has previously interned at HTX (Huobi Global),...

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August 9, 2024

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The Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has officially launched the Digital Asset Regulatory Sandbox.

According to an announcement published by the Thai SEC, the Sandbox would allow participants to test and develop digital asset services within a controlled, real-world environment.

SEC’s New Sandbox Now Open for Applications

The Sandbox is open for applications in six key digital asset-related services: digital asset exchanges, brokers, dealers, fund managers, advisers, and custodial wallet providers.

The SEC will evaluate applicants to ensure they are fully equipped to deliver services within the framework based on several criteria, such as financial stability, operational systems, management structure, and compliance with operational conditions.

The announcement stated that participants must define the specific scope of their services within the Sandbox to minimize risks and potential widespread impacts during the testing period, which is limited to one year from the approval date.

After the initial period, they may request an extension to continue their service testing within the flexible regulatory framework.

Zipmex Loses Digital Asset Business License in Thailand

Thailand’s Ministry of Finance revoked Zipmex’s digital asset business license on May 28 after the exchange repeatedly failed to comply with regulatory directives. This action followed a recommendation from the SEC.

The Commission cited concerns over Zipmex’s financial stability, warning that the exchange’s financial health could pose risks to customers. Additionally, the regulator found the company’s management structure and staffing levels insufficient to operate the business effectively and in accordance with regulations.

Issues with Zipmex’s operations first came to light in January when the SEC identified problems with the firm’s finances and management. The regulator ordered the company to address these concerns but received no compliance.

Due to the ongoing issues, the SEC suspended Zipmex’s trading and brokerage services in February, giving the company a limited time to rectify the problems, which it ultimately failed to do.