From securing their MiCA license to launching OKX Pay and partnering with banks like Standard Chartered, Ghoos outlines a future where crypto and traditional finance seamlessly coexist.
This article provides European crypto enthusiasts and investors with a clear, comprehensive look at OKX's plans to accelerate cryptocurrency adoption across the continent.
Who Is Erald Ghoos?
Erald Ghoos, a veteran with extensive experience in both traditional finance and the crypto sector, leads OKX's European operations. "I began my career in traditional finance; I've attended conferences like Money20/20 for years, since its inaugural edition," he shares.
His transition into crypto brought him to OKX, where he now drives European expansion. With the MiCA license obtained on January 27, 2025, OKX positions itself as a regulated and trusted player in Europe. Ghoos’ background and vision make him a pivotal figure in bridging crypto with established finance.
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Crypto’s Rise on Traditional Stages
Money20/20, traditionally a stronghold of mainstream finance, increasingly welcomes crypto and blockchain companies.
"This is the first time I’ve seen such a prestigious conference with so many crypto booths and blockchain projects. Circle, Ripple, Fireblocks—they’re all here," says Ghoos. The long queues at these booths reflect growing interest. "You see massive public engagement," he adds.
For OKX, this is an opportunity to forge strategic partnerships. "We’re building strategic alliances with Europe’s traditional financial sector," Ghoos explains.
Banks show interest in OKX’s infrastructure and liquidity, while OKX benefits from their custody solutions and regulatory frameworks. "A true symbiosis is emerging," he emphasizes, pointing to a future where both sectors mutually thrive.
Regulation as a Catalyst
Regulation plays a pivotal role in crypto acceptance. Ghoos reflects on the sector’s evolution: "Earlier, there were bad actors—no names mentioned. The industry has transformed through self-regulation and government oversight."
The MiCA license provides clarity and trust. "We now have a clearer path forward. Everything is safer, with guardrails for cross-border operations," he says.
This regulation enables collaborations with traditional institutions. "We recently announced our partnership with Standard Chartered," Ghoos notes. Such alliances with global banks underscore crypto’s growing legitimacy.
OKX Pay: A Payment Revolution
One of OKX’s most promising innovations is OKX Pay, simplifying peer-to-peer stablecoin transactions. "We’re enabling users to transfer funds via stablecoins—fast, cheap, and transparent," explains Ghoos.
"OKX Pay returns to Satoshi Nakamoto’s original vision of peer-to-peer payments," he says.
Initially focused on retail P2P transactions (e.g., paying friends), OKX plans to expand to merchant payments. "We’re building one-click payment technology," Ghoos adds, accelerating crypto adoption for daily use.
The Netherlands: Fertile Ground for Crypto
How does the Netherlands fare in crypto adoption? "Amsterdam and the Netherlands have always been progressive in finance and investment literacy," says Ghoos.
He cites tulip mania as early speculation and praises Dutch crypto regulation. "We were among the first registered with De Nederlandsche Bank," he notes.
Stiff local competition keeps OKX innovative. "Strong rivals push us to deliver better products—great for consumers," Ghoos remarks. This dynamic makes the Netherlands ideal for OKX’s growth.
OKX’s European Expansion Plans
With its MiCA license, OKX is expanding across Europe. "Since January, we’ve focused on strategic partnerships—banks, payment providers, influencers," Ghoos shares. A phased rollout begins in June, starting with the Netherlands, Malta, and Belgium.
"Each month, we’ll launch in new countries," he confirms.
For European investors, OKX’s regulated platform offers new opportunities. How can you leverage a compliant crypto exchange? What does OKX Pay mean for your transactions? Ghoos’ vision paints a future where crypto is safer and more accessible.
Join the crypto revolution with OKX’s innovations. Shape your financial future today!
FAQ
Q: How does OKX ensure regulatory compliance in Europe?
A: OKX obtained the MiCA license in 2025, adhering to stringent EU standards for transparency and consumer protection.
Q: What makes OKX Pay unique?
A: It enables instant, low-cost stablecoin transfers—aligning with Bitcoin’s original peer-to-peer ethos while integrating modern compliance.
Q: Which banks has OKX partnered with?
A: Standard Chartered is a key partner, signaling traditional finance’s growing trust in crypto infrastructure.
Q: When will OKX launch in other European countries?
A: Expansions begin June 2025, with gradual rollouts across the continent.
Q: Why is the Netherlands a focus for OKX?
A: Its progressive regulations, tech-savvy population, and competitive landscape make it an ideal market.
Q: How can users benefit from OKX’s services?
A: Access regulated trading, low-fee payments, and institutional-grade liquidity—all in one platform.