Taiwan Opens Doors for Investors in Foreign Virtual Asset ETFs

As a seasoned investor with a keen interest in the ever-evolving world of cryptocurrencies, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation upon learning about Taiwan’s decision to open its doors to select investors for crypto ETFs. With my years of experience navigating the complexities of global markets, I understand the potential benefits this move could bring for diversifying investment portfolios and gaining access to new opportunities within the rapidly expanding crypto market.


In simpler terms, Taiwan’s financial regulators have given permission for certain investors to invest in Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) that follow foreign crypto assets, using a method called re-entrustment. This creative strategy allows investors to hand over their investment choices to licensed financial firms.

On Monday, September 30, the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) of Taiwan revealed that they had worked together with the Securities Business Association of the Republic of China to carry out a thorough examination of the significant risks linked to investing in this asset class, prior to giving permission for trading these financial products.

Taiwan: Access to Crypto ETFs Restricted to Professional Investors

According to the FSC’s regulations, it is only open for professional investors like wealthy individuals, large asset holders, investment firms, and qualified persons to gain access to these investments.

Given the intricate characteristics of digital assets, their volatile market changes, and the substantial risk associated with investing in ETFs tied to these assets, the individuals who are authorized by brokerages to purchase and sell such foreign ETFs should be experienced investors,” is a paraphrased version that maintains the original meaning but uses simpler and more natural language.

This collection of investors now has the chance to delve into the dynamic landscape of crypto Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs), a segment that currently offers multiple choices such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. Notably, these ETFs are backed by established financial heavyweights like BlackRock, Grayscale Investments, and Fidelity. Here’s a quick snapshot of their current status:

These investments can be found in various international markets besides the U.S., starting from Hong Kong who authorized the trade of these investment products in April 2024. Subsequently, nations like Australia and Brazil have also given the green light, making it possible for these assets to be listed on their key stock exchanges.

Under the plan by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Taiwanese investors might gain improved entry to worldwide financial markets, thereby allowing them to broaden their investment options.

Regulatory Requirements for Offering Virtual Asset ETFs

To provide these products to potential Taiwanese investors, it’s essential that companies set up a suitable system for virtual asset Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) based on financial regulations. This system needs to be reviewed and approved by the board of directors before any related services can commence.

After receiving approval from the relevant authorities, financial institutions should also verify that their clients fully comprehend the nature of the investment products prior to enabling any transactions.

Furthermore, these businesses must organize periodic educational and training sessions about digital currencies and associated goods for their staff members. This is to guarantee that everyone within the organization has a thorough grasp of the services being provided.

According to the FSC, they will regularly check up on the application of these measures. Their goal is to protect investors’ interests and simultaneously boost the “competing abilities” of securities companies.

FSC to Introduce New Regulatory Measures

Although approving Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF trades in Taiwan, Huang Tianzhu, the Chairman of the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), has cautioned investors about the weak connection between cryptocurrencies and the real-world economy. He explained that these ETFs do not physically hold the underlying assets but instead follow their price movements.

In the first quarter of this year, I too voiced worries about the increasing number of fraudulent acts in the nation’s digital asset industry. To tackle these problems, I’ve mentioned that the Financial Services Commission (FSC) is readying itself to enforce strict regulations designed to combat such criminal activities.

Additionally, Huang stated that cryptocurrency exchanges and service providers operating in Taiwan must abide by the newly established regulations. He cautioned that disregarding the forthcoming laws could result in significant administrative sanctions for these businesses.

Read More

Sorry. No data so far.

2024-09-30 14:06