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Is OKX legal in Italy?
Since the implementation of the MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) in Europe, many cryptocurrency platforms, including OKX , have strengthened their regulatory compliance. But what is the actual accessibility of OKX in Italy? Can this platform be used legally? And what alternatives exist for Italian traders wishing to invest in cryptocurrencies while remaining within a regulated framework?
Table of contents
Is OKX accessible and authorized in Italy?
Yes , OKX is now legal in Italy , thanks to obtaining the MiCA license which allows it to operate throughout the European Union. However, prior to this development, the platform's situation in Italy was more uncertain.
Unlike some other exchanges, OKX had never been registered with the Organismo Agenti e Mediatori (OAM) , the body that oversees digital asset service providers in Italy. It directly benefited from MiCA to enter the Italian market legally and offer a full range of services.
OKX's regulatory history in Italy
OKX and Italian regulation before MiCA
MiCA regulation came into effect , OKX was not registered locally in Italy. At that time, the country required all cryptocurrency platforms to register with the OAM , an entity responsible for monitoring exchanges and ensuring their compliance with local regulations.
Since January 2023 , any company offering crypto-related services in Italy has had to be registered with the OAM , an obligation introduced to combat money laundering and ensure more transparency in the sector .
However, OKX was not among the exchanges registered in Italy . Consequently, its access to the Italian market was limited, and users may encounter restrictions on certain features.
MiCA 's impact on OKX's legality in Italy
On January 27, 2025, OKX officially obtained the MiCA from its European entity based in Malta. This authorization is a game-changer, as it allows OKX to offer all of its services throughout Europe , including Italy.
With MiCA ✅
Offer a full range of crypto services, including trading , derivatives, options, and staking ✅ Ensure a consistent regulatory framework across Europe, avoiding discrepancies in the application of local laws
✅ Provide additional guarantees to users, particularly regarding fund security and transaction transparency
A more secure framework for Italian users
The MiCA stricter compliance requirements on exchanges , including:
- Consumer protection : platforms must provide clear information on the risks of cryptocurrencies.
- Separation of client funds to prevent abuses like those seen with FTX
- Obligation to prove the reserve of assets held
These new standards provide Italian investors with better protection , while also facilitating access to centralized platforms like OKX .
How to use OKX in Italy today?
Thanks to its MiCA , OKX is now fully operational in Italy . Here are the main features available:
1️⃣ Deposits and withdrawals in euros
Users can deposit and withdraw euros via several methods:
- SEPA bank transfer
- Credit card (VISA/Mastercard)
- Compatible electronic wallets
2️⃣ Spot trading and derivatives
OKX offers a wide range of crypto assets, including over 300 cryptocurrencies and several trading pairs:
- Spot market : instant buying and selling
- Derivatives products : futures contracts, options, and margin trading
Thanks to MiCA , these products are now legally available to Italian residents.
3️⃣ Staking and Earning
Users can stake their cryptocurrencies directly on OKX and earn returns through the Earn services. However, it's important to note that returns are never guaranteed , as they depend on market dynamics.
4️⃣ Trading bots and advanced features
OKX also provides trading bots , allowing users to automate certain strategies:
- DCA (Dollar Cost Averaging)
- Grid Trading
- Arbitration
What are the alternatives to OKX?
Even though OKX is now fully operational, it's still worthwhile to compare platforms to find the one best suited to your trading or investment goals. We're thinking in particular of Gemini:
The platform offers:
- Top-tier security, with "cold" storage of the majority of funds
- A dual interface: a simplified application for beginners and ActiveTrader , an advanced platform offering volume-dependent fees and a competitive order book.
- Access to over 60 cryptocurrencies, but also to a rare offering on the market: tokenized shares (Nvidia, Apple, etc.). These products replicate the price of real shares via tokens issued directly on the Gemini platform, allowing them to be bought and traded 24/7 like cryptocurrencies, without going through a traditional stockbroker.
- Strict regulatory compliance, with Gemini being one of the first platforms approved in the United States and holding the European license ( MiCA ).
- Additional services such as staking to generate returns on these cryptocurrencies.
Gemini therefore allows you to invest in both cryptocurrencies and tokenized shares, all within a secure and regulated environment.
What if you prefer not to use a centralized exchange?
You can also buy your cryptocurrencies directly from a decentralized wallet (Metamask, Exodus, Trust Wallet ) by holding your funds directly on the blockchain .
If you're unsure how to use an online wallet and are new to cryptocurrency, we've created a detailed, step-by-step illustrated guide with screenshots. It will help you grasp the fundamentals and learn to navigate with confidence.
What you will learn:
✔ Buying your first cryptocurrencies – A detailed tutorial to get started on a centralized exchange platform.
✔ Securing your transactions – Best practices for buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrencies while minimizing risk.
✔ Understanding stablecoins stablecoin Their usefulness, differences, and how to use them to stabilize your funds during periods of volatility.
✔ Mastering a decentralized wallet ( DeFi ) – Learn how to manage your assets without intermediaries and interact directly with the blockchain.
✔ Transacting via a decentralized wallet – A practical guide to trading cryptocurrencies independently.
✔ Exploring decentralized finance ( DeFi ) – Discover advanced concepts like staking and NFTs .
📥 Download your free guide by filling out the form below:
Conclusion: Is OKX legal in Italy?
Thanks to obtaining the MiCA , OKX is now fully legal in Italy . Its registration with the European authorities allows it to offer all of its services to Italian users without restrictions .
For investors seeking a reliable and regulated alternative , Binance , Bitvavo, and Coinbase are excellent options. And for those who want to maximize their independence, decentralized wallets and DEXs remain a solution to consider.
Cryptocurrency investments are risky. Crypternon cannot be held liable, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss resulting from the use of any product or service mentioned in this article. Readers should conduct their own research before taking any action and only invest within their financial means. Past performance is not indicative of future results. This article does not constitute investment advice.
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AMF recommendations. There is no guaranteed high yield, a product with high performance potential implies a high risk. This risk taking must be in line with your project, your investment horizon and your ability to lose part of this savings. Do not invest if you are not ready to lose all or part of your capital .
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Yoann
Training engineer, I quickly became interested in the field of finance. Convinced that decentralized finance has a bright future ahead of it, I participate in its democratization by developing Crypternon.
