Regulatory Series on Cryptocurrencies: OKEx To Launch Global Compliance Standards For Crypto-Exchanges

At the DELTA Summit in Malta, the renowned crypto-exchange, OKEx which is one of the world’s largest spot and futures digital asset marketplace, is making an initiative to establish a Self-Regulated Organization (SRO) intending to standardizing exchange practices and policies. 

Resembling organizations such as the World Federation of Stock Exchanges, FINRA in the United States, and the World Economic Forum, OKEx is engaging exchanges and market participants in the global crypto-trading community to become members of this initiative. 

As per a press release with EconoTimes, the announcement came in during the course of the day, in one of the DELTA Summit in Malta, the international “Blockchain Island” and OKEx’s headquarters, this SRO will be an independent, membership-based organization that is neutral and open to exchanges of all sizes and jurisdictions. Member exchanges will work together to define and adopt standards that will promote digital asset adoption globally, educate governments and regulators, and develop metrics and criteria for trading, listings, and reporting. 

While the head of Operations for OKEx, Andy Cheung said that “cryptocurrencies are global and decentralized, and the industry remains nascent, thus regulations by jurisdiction are not enough, the only way for exchanges to grow and deliver impact is by joining together to develop practices and policies that will set a global standard and adapt to regional regulatory frameworks.” 

Exchanges must clarify their operational practices and procedures in order to best cooperate with governments and encourage innovation in this sector. OKEx invites other exchanges to join the company in establishing standards for market-making, listings, de-listings of digital assets, and other items critical to the growth of the entire industry. Crypto exchanges share a common goal to protect investors and traders, and to foster innovation in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Together, exchanges can more effectively set standards to usher in financial security for millions of people.

The head of International Strategy and Innovation at OKEx, Enzo Villani, said “while other organizations have introduced initiatives to elevate standards for crypto exchanges, most are focused on one jurisdiction. We applaud their efforts and OKEx will determine which ones are important to our customers. Our initiative is focused on creating a global SRO that can provide international standards, we are in discussions with other exchanges and market participants to join us in formalizing a global SRO.”