Crypto Exchanges Enter a More Regulated Growth Era

[AIcash]

The cryptocurrency industry is entering a new phase where growth is increasingly shaped by regulation rather than speculation. Large exchanges are moving away from high-leverage trading and rapid token listings, instead prioritizing licenses, compliant derivatives, and stronger fiat on-ramps that can survive regulatory scrutiny across major markets.

According to Haider Rafique, global managing partner at OKX, 2026 will likely bring clearer rules in the US and Europe, allowing exchanges to bring more products “onshore.” OKX already operates licensed services across the EU under MiCA, as well as in Dubai, Australia, Singapore and the US—reflecting a broader industry shift toward regulated, localized operations.

[nihalsari]

everyone hated OKX going full compliance mode until it turned out to be a survival skill