Last Updated: May 20, 2025
This Risk Disclosure and Regulatory Compliance Statement should be read alongside the OKX Terms of Service. We aim to clearly communicate key risks and regulatory considerations associated with digital asset trading on our platform.
Understanding Our Compliance Framework
OKX has established and actively maintains an Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Terrorist Financing, and Sanctions compliance program (AML/CTF/Sanctions Program). This framework ensures our platform operates as a trusted, rule-compliant environment for digital asset trading. We support lawful and transparent business activities while maintaining a strong reputation among users, regulators, and the broader digital asset community.
Platform Role and Service Nature
OKX operates as a global digital asset trading platform, connecting buyers and sellers (typically market makers and takers). Our services primarily facilitate transaction execution by matching user orders. In certain circumstances detailed in our Terms of Service, OKX-related entities may act as counterparties in trades.
Important Disclosure: Trading involves substantial risk. Losses from trading or holding digital assets can be significant. Carefully consider whether trading suits your financial circumstances.
Regulatory Landscape Overview
Regulatory approaches to digital assets vary significantly across jurisdictions. Some authorities classify digital assets as convertible virtual currencies (e.g., US FinCEN), while others designate them as virtual commodities (e.g., Hong Kong). As a trading platform, we view all digital assets available on OKX as innovative alternative asset classes rather than currency or money.
Critical Clarification: Digital assets are not cash or currency. They lack government or central bank backing. While we may have opinions on regulatory approaches, we strictly comply with all applicable laws and regulations in every jurisdiction where we operate.
We maintain ongoing dialogue with regulators and industry participants to help shape appropriate frameworks for digital asset activities.
Restricted Jurisdictions and Services
OKX does not serve certain customer categories and restricts service availability in specific regions. Currently prohibited locations include Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Canada, Cuba, El Salvador, Hong Kong, Iran, India, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, Nigeria, North Korea, Syria, Crimea, and the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine, plus certain US territories.
Additional restrictions apply in:
- Australia (particularly for derivatives and centralized finance activities)
- The Bahamas (especially retail-focused products)
- Brazil (notably derivatives and P2P trading services)
- Eritrea (primarily P2P trading)
- Russia (specifically fiat payment services)
- South Korea (mainly derivatives and P2P trading)
- United Kingdom (particularly derivatives, CeFi, and P2P services)
We cooperate with governments, respect regulations, and comply with legal requirements. As a responsible entity, we may provide information to law enforcement when legally permitted to support investigations into illegal activities. Our platform is intended for law-abiding customers who engage in legitimate transactions.
AML and CTF Program Structure
Our multi-layered, risk-based compliance program reasonably prevents money laundering and terrorist financing activities.
Customer Identification Program
We implement strict customer identification procedures for both individuals and entities. Beyond collecting required documentation, we obtain beneficial ownership information for corporate customers per international standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
Risk-Based Due Diligence
Our system enhances due diligence based on risk assessment. We screen customers (including beneficial owners) against sanctions lists from:
- Hong Kong SAR Government Gazette
- US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)
- United Nations Security Council
- Additional government-provided lists of sanctioned individuals/entities
We may consult additional lists at our discretion to protect our reputation and customer interests.
Ongoing Suspicious Activity Monitoring
When we suspect or have reasonable grounds to suspect suspicious activities under our program, we file reports with local regulators. Suspicious transactions typically contradict a client's known legitimate business activities or personal transaction patterns.
These elements form our regulatory compliance foundation, supported by dedicated leadership, specialized AML and risk management staff, comprehensive training programs, and strong oversight that fosters an effective compliance culture.
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Specific Risk Disclosures
Digital asset trading involves high risk. These assets lack government backing, and potential losses from trading or holding them can be substantial. Assess whether digital asset activities suit your financial situation.
Foreign Exchange (FX) Risks
Payments made using credit cards in your local currency undergo foreign exchange conversion through approved unified procedures. This FX process may experience unexpected errors or system failures affecting individual components or the entire system.
If such errors or failures occur, we may refund your balance in US dollars or USDT at our sole discretion. This amount may differ from your original local currency payment amount, potentially resulting in financial loss. You agree to bear all costs associated with FX risks arising from system errors or failures.
Singapore User Disclosures
OKX Singapore users must receive specific disclosures as required by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for customers of Digital Payment Token (DPT) service providers. Please review the Singapore User-Specific Risk and Safeguarding Disclosures before using DPT services from OKX Singapore or depositing any assets with OKX Singapore.
Fee Structure
Trading Fees
Your trading fees depend on your trading volume over the previous 30 days. All volumes convert to US dollars using the digital asset's exchange rate at transaction time. Volumes from trades in non-USD denominated trading pairs also undergo conversion.
The 30-day trading volume calculation occurs daily at 00:00 (UTC+8). Fees deduct from the asset you purchase. For example, when buying BTC/USD, fees deduct in BTC. Rebates (discounts) pay in the sold asset—USD in the BTC/USD example.
Additional Fees and Costs
OKX offers various financial channels for deposit and withdrawal options. Deposit and withdrawal fees vary by method.
If selecting OKX as an external payment processor, transactions using credit or debit cards (Visa only) incur additional processing fees.
Regional Fee Variations
Fee structures may differ by country or region, determined based on the user's permanent residence or geographical location at time of use.
Communication Channels
For inquiries regarding customer due diligence requirements, contact our 24/7 customer service representatives through our Support Center.
For law enforcement requests, please consult our Law Enforcement Request Guide.
Language Versions
This Risk Disclosure and Regulatory Compliance Statement may publish in multiple languages. If conflicts arise between the English version and translations, the English version prevails and serves as the reference document.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is OKX's approach to regulatory compliance?
OKX maintains a robust compliance program that includes customer verification, ongoing monitoring, and cooperation with regulators. We adapt our practices to meet evolving regulatory requirements across different jurisdictions while promoting industry best practices.
How does OKX protect against illegal activities?
Our multi-layered approach includes identity verification, screening against sanctions lists, transaction monitoring, and reporting suspicious activities to relevant authorities. We invest significantly in compliance personnel and technology to maintain platform integrity.
Can users from any country access OKX services?
No. OKX restricts access from certain jurisdictions due to regulatory requirements. Currently prohibited locations include several countries and specific regions, with additional service limitations in others. Always check our latest terms to confirm availability in your location.
What should I consider before trading digital assets?
Evaluate your financial situation and risk tolerance carefully. Digital assets are volatile, not government-backed, and involve potential loss of capital. Only trade with funds you can afford to lose and educate yourself thoroughly about market risks.
How are trading fees calculated?
Fees base on your 30-day trading volume converted to USD equivalent. Different fee tiers apply based on volume, with maker-taker models for certain products. Fees deduct from the purchased asset, while rebates pay in the sold asset.
Where can I find detailed fee information?
Our website provides complete fee schedules for trading, deposits, and withdrawals. Fee structures may vary by region and payment method, so check our official resources for the most current information applicable to your location.