Takeaways

• Thailand’s SEC will allow ESG funds to invest in JUMP+ companies with high corporate governance scores.
• Firms must score at least 90 in the Corporate Governance Report to qualify.
• The move aims to expand ESG investment options while improving transparency and governance standards among listed companies.

Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is moving to tighten the link between environmental, social, and governance investing and corporate accountability.

Under proposed regulatory changes, Thai ESG funds will soon be able to invest in companies participating in the Stock Exchange of Thailand’s JUMP+ Program, provided these firms demonstrate strong corporate governance practices. To qualify, companies must achieve a Corporate Governance Report score of at least 90.

The amendments were approved in principle by the Capital Market Supervisory Board in December 2025. The SEC is now drafting detailed rules and notifications, with the changes expected to take effect by March 2026.

If implemented, shares of qualifying JUMP+ companies will become eligible investment assets for ESG-focused funds. Regulators say the move is designed to both widen the investment universe for funds and push companies to improve governance and transparency.

Read More: ESG Meaning: Investing, Funds, and Governance Explained

At present, Thai ESG funds primarily invest in listed firms with strong environmental or broader ESG performance. They can also allocate capital to sustainability-linked debt instruments, sustainability-themed investment tokens, infrastructure funds, and real estate investment trusts that meet ESG standards.

The new rules add governance strength as a clearer benchmark for equity investments.

Market data shows why the change matters. As of January 26, 2026, Thailand had 77 Thai ESG funds, including the Thailand ESG Extra Fund. These are managed by 19 asset management companies, with a combined net asset value of around THB 103.1 billion. That figure has surged 249 percent since the end of 2024, reflecting strong investor demand for responsible investing products.

By allowing ESG funds to back well-governed companies in the JUMP+ Program, the SEC hopes to channel this growing pool of capital toward firms that are serious about long-term planning and disclosure.

Launched by the Stock Exchange of Thailand, the JUMP+ Program helps listed companies develop structured growth strategies. It emphasizes improving governance systems, strengthening transparency, and maintaining regular communication with investors. Participating firms must submit their JUMP+ plans by March 31, 2026.

Regulators believe linking fund eligibility to governance scores will create stronger incentives for companies to raise standards. Better governance, they argue, reduces risk for investors and supports more sustainable growth.

Also Read: ESG Thematic Funds: A Comprehensive Guide for Sustainable Investing

For investors, the change could mean broader exposure to credible, well-managed Thai businesses. For companies, it signals that strong governance is no longer just good practice; it may soon be essential for accessing ESG capital.

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Source: FINTECH NEWS NETWORK