Thailand plans overhaul of market laws to speed up fraud probes
The changes would allow SEC officials to work alongside police in probes of serious market offences.
Thailand intends to revise its securities regulations to expedite investigations into financial crimes and enhance oversight of auditors and advisers. On August 25, the Cabinet endorsed amendments to four laws pertaining to financial and capital markets, as well as digital assets, according to Pornanong Budsaratragoon, the Securities and Exchange Commission’s secretary-general.
These modifications would enable SEC officials to collaborate with law enforcement agencies in probing serious market offenses. The move expands upon an emergency decree introduced in March 2025, which granted the SEC heightened authority to intervene in questionable corporate transactions and investigate significant cases. These measures came in response to scandals involving companies such as Stark and Energy Absolute, which eroded investor confidence.
Presently, suspected criminal activities, such as insider trading, stock manipulation, and corporate fraud, necessitate referral to the police. These investigations often span over two years due to limited resources and expertise. However, the proposed cooperation is anticipated to considerably shorten this process. Pornanong emphasized that investors have been demanding stricter enforcement against wrongdoers to regain their trust.
The amendments would also bolster supervision of auditors and financial advisers, who serve as gatekeepers in preventing misconduct within companies. The proposals are slated for submission to Parliament for approval, with implementation expected in 2027, as stated by Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas.
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