Emma Nelson 
OKX, a leading cryptocurrency exchange, has secured a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID II) license through the acquisition of a Malta-licensed entity. This move marks a significant step in the company’s strategy to expand its presence in the European market, allowing OKX to offer regulated derivative products and services for institutional clients across the European Economic Area (EEA), pending approval from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA).
OKX
The announcement was made during an exclusive event held on Manoel Island, Malta, further highlighting the importance of this move in the company’s broader European market expansion. By acquiring the MiFID II license, OKX is positioning itself to introduce regulated investment solutions and derivatives for its institutional clients, thereby enhancing its access to the European market while complying with the region’s stringent financial regulations.
OKX’s Strategic Expansion in Europe with MiFID II License
The recent acquisition of the Malta-based entity that holds the MiFID II license will enable OKX to provide regulated derivatives products and services to institutional investors across the entire European Economic Area. This acquisition aligns with the exchange’s goal to bridge the gap between traditional financial markets and digital assets, ensuring that its services meet the high standards set by European regulatory bodies.
Once approved by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), the newly acquired entity will begin operations later this year, offering a broad range of services under the MiFID II framework. This development allows OKX to continue expanding its institutional offerings in Europe while ensuring compliance with local regulations, including those outlined by the European Union.
Previously, OKX had obtained a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license, which enabled it to offer localized crypto trading services across 30 European Union member states. The MiCA license covers spot trading, over-the-counter (OTC) trading, and automated trading solutions, further solidifying OKX’s footprint in the region.
Institutional Services Focused on European Compliance
With the acquisition of the MiFID II license, OKX is taking another significant step to align its digital asset offerings with traditional financial markets in Europe. The exchange aims to provide institutional-grade services that meet the regulatory standards established by MiFID II, allowing it to collaborate with tier-one financial institutions and introduce regulated investment products to the market.
The MiFID II approval will enable OKX to offer a suite of new derivatives trading services designed to meet the needs of institutional clients. By incorporating advanced risk management features and secure trading solutions, OKX will provide a safe and compliant environment for institutions to engage with digital assets. The platform currently supports trading for over 240 cryptocurrency tokens and 300 trading pairs, including 60 euro-based pairs, giving institutional investors a broad range of trading opportunities.
Alongside the MiFID II expansion, OKX is also planning to introduce additional fiat on-ramp options for its users. The exchange offers commission-free euro deposits and withdrawals through bank transfers, as well as support for card payments and other local payment methods. These steps aim to make the platform more accessible to institutional and retail investors alike.
Localization and Expansion of Services
As part of its ongoing commitment to the European market, OKX is further enhancing its services by offering localized customer service, language support, and currency displays. The company plans to implement more region-specific features, including a streamlined Know Your Customer (KYC) process, to better serve its growing European customer base.
Erald Ghoos, the CEO of OKX Europe, expressed his excitement about the MiFID II license, stating, “With this license, we are set to deliver institutional-grade services, partner with tier-1 financial institutions, and offer regulated investment solutions that enhance market access and empower investors across the continent.” This statement underscores OKX’s dedication to expanding its institutional client base and strengthening its position as a leader in the cryptocurrency exchange space in Europe.
In conclusion, the acquisition of the MiFID II license is a pivotal development for OKX’s European expansion, positioning the exchange to provide enhanced services to institutional investors, ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and strengthen its role in the broader financial ecosystem.
