A total of 5 billion baht ($150 million) in digital investment tokens, referred to as the G-Token, is planned to be issued by Thailand’s Finance Ministry within the next two months.
Unlike conventional bonds, the G-Token is not categorized as a debt instrument. Rather, it will be issued under Thailand’s budget borrowing initiative, which is intended to generate funds directly from the public, as reported by Bloomberg.
A shift in the government’s approach to fundraising is marked by this initiative, with access to state-backed investments being broadened for retail participants.
It was stated by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajirai that participation will be made available to investors with modest capital, and returns exceeding present bank deposit rates can be expected.
Better liquidity and accessibility
The tokens are anticipated to comply fully with regulations set by the Bank of Thailand and are seen as a potential catalyst for enhancing activity in the secondary bond market by providing greater liquidity and accessibility. This initial phase is intended to function as a trial, with additional issuances potentially being considered based on investor demand.
Approval for the G-Token initiative was granted by Thailand’s cabinet, forming part of the wider digital asset strategies currently being explored under the leadership of the ruling Pheu Thai Party. Earlier this year, support was expressed by Thaksin Shinawatra—the father of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra—for stablecoins backed by government bonds, aimed at benefiting both retail and institutional investors.
A recent reduction in the key interest rate to 1.75% was implemented by the Bank of Thailand, leading savers to seek out investment options with higher returns. Conventional bank deposits are presently offering yields ranging from approximately 1.25% to 1.5%.
A growing number of Asian nations exploring blockchain-based financial systems is now being joined by Thailand, as shifting global dynamics—such as the evolving cryptocurrency position of the United States—are beginning to shape regional policy decisions.