OKX Secures MiFID II License to Dominate Europe’s Regulated Crypto Market

Strategic Acquisition in Malta

OKX obtained its MiFID II license through the acquisition of a Malta-based company that already held the certification. This strategic move allows the exchange to fast-track its expansion into the European derivatives market while ensuring compliance with the region’s stringent financial regulations.

The announcement was made during a VIP event on March 12 at Manoel Island, Malta. The decision to base operations in Malta aligns with the country’s reputation as a crypto-friendly jurisdiction with a well-defined regulatory framework for digital assets.

By acquiring an entity with an existing license, OKX avoids the lengthy regulatory approval process, enabling it to introduce regulated derivatives products more swiftly. This move also enhances the platform’s credibility among institutional investors, who prioritize exchanges operating within a regulated framework.

Expanding Institutional Offerings

The MiFID II license will allow OKX to launch a suite of regulated derivatives products tailored for institutional investors. These offerings will include advanced trading instruments, providing institutional traders with a wider range of options for risk management, hedging, and market exposure.

This development is part of OKX’s broader vision to bridge the gap between traditional finance and digital assets. By offering institutional-grade derivatives within a regulated environment, OKX aims to attract more institutional capital into the crypto space.

Complementing MiCA Licensing

OKX’s MiFID II approval comes just months after it became the first global crypto exchange to secure a full Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license in January 2025. The MiCA license allows OKX to provide crypto services across 28 EEA countries through a passporting system, eliminating the need for separate approvals in each nation.

While the MiCA framework primarily regulates crypto-assets that do not fall under traditional financial classifications, the MiFID II license extends OKX’s reach into derivatives trading. By holding both licenses, OKX strengthens its position as a comprehensive provider of both spot and derivative trading services in the European market.

Localized Services for European Users

To cater to the European market, OKX has introduced several localized features:

• Trading support for 240+ cryptocurrencies across 300 trading pairs, including 60+ EUR pairs
• Zero-fee EUR deposits and withdrawals via SEPA bank transfers
• Multi-language website and app, ensuring accessibility for diverse user groups
• Expanded payment options, including credit cards, bank transfers, and local payment methods

OKX’s localized approach enhances user experience and ensures compliance with European financial regulations.

Commitment to Compliance and Future Growth

OKX’s regulatory approvals highlight its commitment to responsible expansion. The exchange is working on streamlining KYC processes, expanding payment rails, and introducing region-specific products. These efforts will provide a more stable and regulatory-compliant trading environment for European customers.

Additionally, OKX is focused on enhancing security measures, ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) regulations. This proactive approach positions the exchange as a trusted player in the European crypto ecosystem.

Building a European Crypto Community

Beyond regulatory compliance, OKX is actively engaging with the European crypto community. The exchange has plans to:

• Host local events to connect with traders and investors
• Collaborate with key influencers and crypto thought leaders
• Launch brand initiatives involving local creators and businesses

By fostering a strong community, OKX aims to deepen its market penetration and build long-term trust with European users.

A Competitive Landscape

OKX’s regulatory approval comes at a time when other global exchanges are expanding in Europe. Competitors like Crypto.com and Bitpanda have recently secured MiCA licenses in Malta and Germany, respectively.

This wave of regulatory compliance shows that Europe is becoming a major hub for crypto regulation, with exchanges vying to secure their place in the region’s growing digital economy.

By securing a MiFID II license, OKX reinforces its institutional offerings in Europe, complementing its existing MiCA license. With regulated derivatives products, localized services, and community-driven initiatives, OKX is well-positioned to be a leading force in Europe’s evolving crypto industry. As institutional adoption grows and regulatory frameworks solidify, OKX’s compliance-first approach ensures it remains at the forefront of the European crypto market.