OKX Weighs U.S. IPO Following American Market Re-Entry

Major cryptocurrency exchange OKX is considering an initial public offering (IPO) in the United States, according to a report from The Information, as the platform seeks to capitalize on its renewed American market presence following regulatory settlement.

The potential IPO comes just months after OKX announced its U.S. expansion in April, marking the exchange's return to American markets following a $500 million settlement with the Department of Justice in February. The settlement resolved allegations that OKX operated a money transmitting business without proper licensing.

OKX established its regional headquarters in San Jose, California, and appointed Roshan Robert as U.S. CEO. Robert, who previously held positions at Morgan Stanley and Barclays, has outlined ambitious plans for the exchange's American operations since taking the role.

"Our long-term vision, of course, is to become a category-defining super app," Robert told The Block in May. "And we plan to slowly work towards that goal." The executive noted that OKX's American team had expanded to approximately 500 employees across New York, San Francisco, and San Jose.

Robert characterized the U.S. market as transformed from previous regulatory uncertainties. "The U.S. is no longer what you would consider as an impossible market," he said. "It's an untapped opportunity if approached in the right manner."

The potential OKX public offering reflects broader momentum in crypto companies seeking U.S. stock market exposure. Earlier this month, crypto exchange Bullish, which counts billionaire Peter Thiel as an investor, confidentially filed for an IPO in the United States, according to Financial Times, reporting citing sources familiar with the matter.

OKX ranks among the top three global cryptocurrency exchanges by trading volume, competing with platforms like Binance and Coinbase. The exchange's consideration of a U.S. listing would represent a significant milestone in its American market strategy following years of regulatory challenges.

The crypto industry has seen increased interest in public market access as digital asset adoption grows and regulatory frameworks develop. Traditional stock market valuations for crypto-related companies have often exceeded expectations, as investors seek exposure to the sector's growth.

An OKX spokesperson declined to comment on the reported IPO consideration when contacted by Blockhead . The exchange has not provided details about potential timing, valuation targets, or specific plans for any public offering.

The potential listing would require navigating U.S. securities regulations and meeting disclosure requirements for public companies. OKX's recent regulatory settlement and compliance investments may position the exchange favorably for such regulatory scrutiny.