At OKX, regulatory compliance remains our top priority. As the cryptocurrency industry continues to mature, we are steadfast in our commitment to not only meet but exceed evolving regulatory standards across global markets. We actively collaborate with financial authorities to ensure our platform operates with the highest levels of security, transparency, and legal adherence.
Strengthening Compliance: The FIAU Review and Proactive Remediation
In April 2023, the Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit (FIAU) of Malta conducted a compliance review of OKX’s anti-money laundering (AML) and countering the financing of terrorism (CFT) frameworks. This routine evaluation identified certain historical gaps in our compliance processes—issues that predated the review and were no longer reflective of our current operational standards.
👉 Discover how OKX is setting new benchmarks in crypto compliance and security.
Rather than wait for formal directives, OKX immediately initiated a self-driven remediation program. This proactive effort underscored our dedication to building a sustainable, forward-looking AML/CFT control environment. Our internal overhaul included:
- Enhancing risk assessment methodologies
- Upgrading transaction monitoring systems with advanced analytics
- Implementing stricter customer due diligence (CDD) protocols
- Conducting comprehensive staff training on compliance best practices
- Performing both qualitative and quantitative audits to validate system effectiveness
These improvements were implemented prior to the FIAU issuing its final report—a move that demonstrated our culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
The final report acknowledged the significant progress we had already made, recognizing OKX’s “sustainable compliance culture” and commending our responsiveness. While the FIAU did impose an administrative fine of EUR 1,054,269 for past non-compliances occurring before April 2023, it also confirmed that our current framework now aligns with regulatory expectations.
We accept this outcome responsibly and remain fully cooperative with the FIAU and other regulators as we continue to strengthen our compliance infrastructure.
Expanding Across Europe: A Commitment to Regulated Growth
OKX’s European journey is built on a foundation of regulation, security, and user trust. Thanks to MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) passporting from our Maltese headquarters, we’ve successfully launched fully regulated centralized exchanges in multiple key markets.
Launch in France: Advancing Financial Innovation
Under the leadership of Erald Ghoos, CEO of OKX Europe, we officially launched our services in France. This marks a strategic milestone in our mission to deliver compliant, transparent, and user-centric digital asset solutions across the continent.
French users now have access to a secure, regulated platform that empowers them to trade cryptocurrencies with confidence—knowing their assets and data are protected under strict European regulatory oversight.
Entering Spain and Central Europe
We’ve also expanded into Spain, Germany, and Poland—each launch representing a new chapter in our pan-European strategy. These rollouts are not just about market access; they reflect our deeper goal of normalizing crypto adoption within regulated financial ecosystems.
By aligning with local regulations and leveraging MiCA’s cross-border framework, OKX ensures seamless, lawful access to digital assets while maintaining uniform standards of security and compliance.
Achieving ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Certification
Security is inseparable from compliance. That’s why we’re proud to announce that OKX has achieved ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification—the globally recognized benchmark for information security management systems (ISMS).
This certification validates that our internal policies, technical controls, and organizational procedures meet the most rigorous international standards for protecting sensitive customer data and operational integrity.
Key benefits of ISO 27001 certification include:
- Structured risk management across all digital touchpoints
- Enhanced protection against cyber threats and data breaches
- Independent verification of our security posture
- Greater trust from users, partners, and regulators
This achievement reinforces OKX’s position as a leader in secure digital asset infrastructure.
Introducing OKX Pay: A Next-Generation Crypto Payment Solution
Led by CEO Star Xu, OKX has launched OKX Pay, a groundbreaking sub-application within the OKX app designed to simplify crypto payments for over 100 million global users.
OKX Pay enables seamless, fast, and secure transactions using digital assets—starting with select markets and expanding worldwide in the coming months. It represents a major step toward mainstream crypto adoption, bridging the gap between blockchain technology and everyday financial use cases.
With OKX Pay, users can:
- Send crypto as easily as sending a text message
- Pay merchants directly using QR codes or wallet addresses
- Enjoy built-in fraud detection and transaction safeguards
- Access multi-chain support for greater flexibility
👉 See how OKX Pay is redefining digital payments in the Web3 era.
Building the Future in the United States
Under the leadership of Roshan Robert, CEO of OKX US, we are entering a new phase of growth in America—a market at the heart of global financial innovation.
Blockchain technology is reaching a pivotal moment, increasingly intersecting with traditional finance and capital markets. Our expansion into the U.S. is guided by a clear vision: to provide secure, transparent, and compliant access to digital assets for millions of Americans.
We believe responsible innovation must go hand-in-hand with regulatory cooperation—and we’re committed to setting a new standard for integrity in the American crypto landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What was the reason for the FIAU fine?
A: The administrative fine of EUR 1,054,269 was issued for historical compliance gaps identified during a 2023 review—specifically related to AML/CFT procedures that existed prior to April 2023. These issues have since been resolved through comprehensive internal reforms.
Q: Is OKX still operating in Europe?
A: Yes. OKX continues to operate fully regulated crypto exchange services across multiple European countries—including France, Spain, Germany, and Poland—under MiCA passporting from Malta.
Q: What does ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification mean for users?
A: It means your personal data and digital assets are protected by an internationally audited security management system. This certification ensures robust defenses against cyber threats and unauthorized access.
Q: Is OKX Pay available everywhere?
A: OKX Pay is being rolled out gradually, starting with select markets. A full global release is planned over the next several months.
Q: How does OKX ensure ongoing compliance?
A: Through continuous collaboration with regulators, regular internal audits, staff training, adoption of advanced compliance technologies, and adherence to global standards like ISO 27001 and MiCA.
Q: Are my funds safe on OKX?
A: Yes. We employ multi-layered security protocols including cold storage, insurance coverage, real-time monitoring, and regulatory compliance frameworks designed to safeguard user assets.
Looking Ahead: Leading with Integrity
The crypto industry is evolving rapidly—regulatory expectations are becoming clearer, more robust, and increasingly aligned across jurisdictions. At OKX, we welcome this progress. As an industry leader, we are committed to being a torchbearer for responsible innovation and regulatory integrity.
With this chapter behind us, we remain focused on the future: building a safer, more transparent, and fully compliant platform for users around the world. Our mission is clear—to set the benchmark for what a trustworthy digital asset ecosystem should look like.
We appreciate the continued trust and support of our global community as we move forward—together.