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Cryptocurrency exchange OKX has received pre-authorisation under the European Union's Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), becoming the first global exchange to reach this milestone. The company plans to establish its European Economic Area (EEA) operations from Malta, serving over 400 million potential customers across the region.
The authorisation will enable OKX to offer regulated cryptocurrency services including over-the-counter, spot, and bot trading across more than 240 tokens and 260 trading pairs. The platform will provide 60 Euro-based trading pairs, with localised features including language options, currency displays, and customer support.
Erald Ghoos, OKX Europe CEO, said: "Securing pre-authorization for the MiCA license is a major milestone that further validates OKX's mission to lead and build responsibly in the global crypto space. OKX will be the go-to digital asset platform for both retail and institutional customers in Europe for any digital asset offering under a fully regulated framework."
The company intends to passport its eventual full MiCA licence across all 30 EEA member states, allowing it to operate throughout the region under a unified regulatory framework. OKX selected Malta as its European hub, citing the country's comprehensive regulatory approach and robust technology infrastructure. The exchange currently holds a Class 4 Virtual Assets Service Provider licence from the Malta Financial Services Authority.
Hong Fang, OKX President, commented that "Europe has always been at the heart of the global crypto revolution, and MiCA sets a powerful example for the rest of the world."
OKX, which serves more than 60 million customers globally and ranks as the second-largest exchange by trading volume, will offer European customers free euro deposits and withdrawals through bank transfers, alongside card payments and local payment methods. The platform reports 99.99 per cent uptime and provides Proof of Reserves for transparency.
The move represents a significant development in the European cryptocurrency market, as MiCA introduces standardised regulation across the EU for digital asset services.
