OKX moves deeper into European market with MiFID II regulatory approval
OKX moves deeper into European market
OKX, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, has secured a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II) license, marking a significant step in its European expansion.
The approval comes after OKX’s acquisition of a Malta-based firm holding the coveted regulatory status, according to Crypto News.
The newly acquired entity is expected to launch operations later this year, pending final approval from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA).
The MiFID II license will allow OKX to offer institutional-grade investment solutions, including regulated derivatives trading, across the European Economic Area (EEA).
A stronger foothold in the European market
This latest milestone builds on OKX’s growing regulatory footprint in Europe.
In January 2025, the exchange became the first global crypto platform to secure the full Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) license, which allows it to provide a range of localized services across the European Union. The MiFID II approval further strengthens its ability to bridge traditional finance with digital assets.
“Securing a MiFID II license marks a significant milestone in our mission to integrate digital assets with traditional financial markets,” said Erald Ghoos, CEO of OKX Europe. “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.”
With over 240 cryptocurrencies and more than 60 euro-based trading pairs, OKX is positioning itself as a leader in the European digital asset market.
The MiFID II license will enable the exchange to expand its institutional offerings, providing a compliant and secure environment for professional investors seeking exposure to digital assets.
Meanwhile, European crypto exchanges will remove non-compliant stablecoins ahead of the EU's MiCA deadline. Because of this, Coinbase delisted Tether (USDT) and five others on December 13 2024, but will keep supporting USD Coin and EURC.
