Seychelles-based cryptocurrency exchange OKX has officially relaunched its operations in the United States, marking a significant return with a renewed strategy and leadership. The company has established a new regional headquarters in San Jose, California, and introduced a specialized OKX Wallet designed specifically for U.S. users.
OKX has announced its entry into the U.S. market with the launch of a centralized exchange and the OKX Wallet for U.S. users, alongside the establishment of a regional headquarters in San Jose, California. Existing OKCoin users will be migrated to the OKX platform.
— Wu Blockchain, April 15, 2025
New Leadership and Compliance Strategy
Roshan Robert has been appointed as the CEO of OKX’s U.S. division. With extensive experience in fintech from his previous roles at CLST and Hidden Road, Robert is leading the company’s compliance-first approach. Since joining in September 2024, he has focused on implementing strong Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols, advanced fraud detection systems, and geo-blocking measures to meet U.S. regulatory standards.
This strategic shift follows a recent $500 million settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), where OKX’s international entity acknowledged operating without proper authorization. As part of the settlement, OKX agreed to engage an external compliance consultant through 2027. Although the case involved a guilty plea, no employees faced criminal charges, and the DOJ confirmed that no direct harm was caused to customers.
Regulatory Environment and Market Re-entry
OKX’s return coincides with a more favorable regulatory climate for cryptocurrencies in the United States. The current administration has shown greater openness toward digital assets, enabling other platforms like CoinList to resume U.S. operations. There are also rumors that Binance may be planning a comeback.
As part of its relaunch, OKX is migrating users from OKCoin—its former U.S.-compliant sister platform—to the new OKX exchange. This transition offers users benefits such as reduced fees, enhanced liquidity, and access to advanced trading tools.
👉 Explore advanced trading tools
Competitive Landscape and Growth Strategy
The U.S. cryptocurrency market is highly competitive, with established players like Coinbase and Kraken dominating the scene. However, OKX aims to differentiate itself through a strong emphasis on compliance and innovation. The company is targeting younger, tech-savvy users who value security and advanced features.
Hong Fang, former head of OKCoin, will continue to support OKX’s global strategy, reinforcing the company’s commitment to expansion in regulated markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is OKX’s new strategy for the U.S. market?
OKX is focusing on compliance and user security by implementing robust KYC protocols, fraud detection systems, and geo-blocking measures. The company also aims to attract younger, tech-oriented users with advanced trading tools.
How does the DOJ settlement affect OKX’s operations?
The settlement requires OKX to work with an external compliance consultant until 2027. However, the company has used this as an opportunity to strengthen its regulatory framework and enhance user protection measures.
What benefits do former OKCoin users receive?
Users migrated from OKCoin to OKX will enjoy lower fees, deeper liquidity, and access to a wider range of trading tools and features.
How is OKX positioning itself against competitors like Coinbase?
By emphasizing compliance, security, and innovative features, OKX aims to appeal to users who prioritize safety and advanced functionality in a cryptocurrency exchange.
What role does Roshan Robert play in OKX’s U.S. operations?
As the CEO of OKX’s U.S. division, Robert is leading the compliance-first relaunch, bringing extensive fintech experience to ensure the platform meets regulatory standards.
Is OKX planning to expand to other regulated markets?
Yes, with Hong Fang supporting global strategy, OKX is committed to expanding in regulated markets worldwide, focusing on compliance and innovation.