Global cryptocurrency exchange OKX has obtained a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II) license, enabling it to offer regulated derivatives products to institutional investors across the European Economic Area (EEA). This move strengthens OKX’s position as a leader in compliant crypto trading and institutional finance.
OKX’s Regulatory Milestone
The MiFID II license was secured through the acquisition of a Malta-based financial entity that already held the necessary regulatory approvals. Announced on March 12, 2025, during a VIP event in Malta, the acquisition allows OKX to operate under European financial market regulations, expanding its suite of institutional services.
With this license, OKX can now legally offer crypto derivatives trading, aligning itself with Europe’s evolving regulatory framework. The license complements OKX’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license, which it secured in January 2025, allowing passporting of crypto services across 28 EEA markets.
Expansion of Institutional Crypto Services
OKX’s new regulatory approval paves the way for a range of derivative trading products tailored for institutional investors. The company already supports over 240 cryptocurrencies and 300 trading pairs, including more than 60 euro-based pairs. The MiFID II license will help OKX introduce more sophisticated offerings such as:
- Futures and options trading
- Structured investment products
- Crypto asset management solutions
OKX CEO Erald Ghoos emphasized that this license is a significant step in bridging digital assets with traditional finance, reinforcing OKX’s commitment to compliance, security, and transparency.
Implications for the Crypto Market
The crypto derivatives market is growing rapidly, with institutional demand increasing. According to industry reports, derivatives trading volume surpassed $7 trillion in 2024, reflecting a massive shift in market participation.
By securing the MiFID II license, OKX strengthens its European foothold, allowing it to serve institutional clients within a fully regulated framework. This milestone further validates cryptocurrency’s integration into traditional financial markets, setting a precedent for other global exchanges.
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