OKX Resolves Regulatory Tussle with Malta Authority

Leading cryptocurrency exchange OKX and the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) recently signed an undisclosed settlement for 304,000 euros ($329,000) related to “failings” in compliance that were connected to Okcoin Europe, the company’s subsidiary.

After probing OKX’s activities in great detail, the Malta Financial Services Authority discovered shortcomings with regard to Article 41 of the MFSA Virtual Financial Assets Act. This specific, although vague, clause purports to require licensed financial services companies to comply with Maltese government directions or risk fines or removal from the country.

Settlement in the Spotlight

The regulator said in a statement that, “on 22 January 2024 the MFSA agreed to settle pending matters with the Company after demonstration of goodwill by the Company,” providing insight into the attempts at reconciliation between OKX and the regulatory body. A number of provisions are included in the settlement, one of which is the assignment of an impartial third-party service provider to examine the sufficiency of the exchange’s governance structures.

The developing regulatory environment in the cryptocurrency space is shown by this settlement, which highlights how important it is for exchanges to carefully negotiate the regulatory maze. By taking a proactive stance in addressing the issue, OKX has demonstrated its dedication to compliance while also promoting openness and confidence in the sector.