OKX SG Secures Major Payment Institution License from MAS

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In a significant development for the digital asset landscape in Southeast Asia, OKX SG Pte. Ltd. (OKX SG), the Singapore-based entity of global Web3 technology leader OKX, has officially been granted a Major Payment Institution (MPI) license by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). The announcement, made on September 2, marks a pivotal step in OKX’s long-term commitment to regulatory compliance and market expansion in one of the world’s most progressive fintech hubs.

With this license issued under Singapore’s Payment Services Act 2019, OKX SG is now authorized to offer digital payment token services and cross-border money transfer solutions—including spot trading of cryptocurrencies—to retail and institutional users across Singapore.

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Strategic Leadership: Gracie Lin Appointed CEO of OKX SG

Complementing this regulatory milestone, OKX has appointed Gracie Lin as Chief Executive Officer of OKX SG. In her new role, Lin will lead strategic initiatives tailored to the Singaporean market, focusing on developing compliant digital payment token products that meet local demand while aligning with MAS guidelines.

Gracie Lin brings nearly two decades of experience at the intersection of finance, public policy, and technology. Prior to joining OKX, she was a key member of Grab’s management team, where she led regional strategy and economic research. Her background also includes influential roles at the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and GIC, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund, giving her deep insight into financial regulation, macroeconomic policy, and operational excellence.

Lin holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Chicago and a Master’s degree in International and Development Economics from Yale University—credentials that underscore her analytical rigor and global perspective.

“Singapore is a world-class digital asset hub and a critical market for OKX,” said Gracie Lin. “I’m honored to join the team and help build our presence here. The MPI license is a major milestone in our journey. We’re more committed than ever to giving users secure access to digital assets and contributing meaningfully to the growth of the local ecosystem. I look forward to engaging with partners, customers, and the broader community to deliver value-driven solutions.”

Why the MPI License Matters

The MPI license is among the highest tiers of authorization under Singapore’s robust Payment Services Act framework. It allows licensed entities like OKX SG to conduct large-scale digital payment token activities with strong consumer protections and anti-money laundering (AML) safeguards.

This approval reflects not only OKX’s adherence to stringent regulatory standards but also its strategic vision for sustainable growth in Asia. By operating under full regulatory oversight, OKX SG enhances trust among users, institutions, and partners—key ingredients for mainstream adoption of blockchain technology.

Core Keywords Integrated:

Building a Localized Presence in a Global Hub

Singapore has emerged as a leading jurisdiction for blockchain innovation due to its clear regulatory framework, tech-savvy population, and strong support for financial inclusion. For OKX, it represents a cornerstone of its global strategy.

Following its initial in-principle approval from MAS in February 2024, OKX SG has been actively assembling a world-class team of compliance officers, product developers, and customer experience experts—all focused on delivering localized services that meet the needs of Singaporean users.

This includes enhancing user protection mechanisms, improving fiat-to-crypto onboarding via SGD deposits, and expanding educational resources about safe digital asset management.

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About OKX: Powering the Future of Web3

OKX began as a cryptocurrency exchange but has evolved into a comprehensive Web3 technology company. Today, it provides infrastructure that makes blockchain more accessible and functional for millions worldwide.

From its flagship OKX Exchange, one of the largest trading platforms globally, to its multi-chain OKX Wallet that enables seamless interaction with decentralized applications (dApps), OKX continues to innovate across layers of the Web3 stack.

Other key offerings include:

These tools collectively empower individuals and enterprises to participate in the decentralized economy securely and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What does the MPI license allow OKX SG to do?
A: The Major Payment Institution license permits OKX SG to provide digital payment token services—including crypto spot trading—and cross-border money transfer services in compliance with MAS regulations.

Q: Is OKX SG now fully regulated in Singapore?
A: Yes. With the final MPI license granted by MAS, OKX SG operates under full regulatory oversight, meeting all requirements for capital adequacy, risk management, and consumer protection.

Q: Who is Gracie Lin and why is her appointment significant?
A: Gracie Lin is an experienced financial leader with prior roles at MAS, GIC, and Grab. Her appointment signals OKX’s commitment to regulatory engagement and building trusted, locally relevant services.

Q: Can Singapore residents start trading on OKX SG immediately?
A: Yes. Users in Singapore can access compliant crypto spot trading services through OKX SG’s regulated platform.

Q: Does OKX offer fiat on-ramps in SGD?
A: Yes. OKX SG supports SGD deposits and withdrawals, enabling smooth fiat-to-crypto transactions for local users.

Q: How does this impact OKX’s global expansion?
A: The MAS license strengthens OKX’s position in Asia and serves as a model for entering other regulated markets with high standards for transparency and security.

A New Chapter in Regulated Innovation

The granting of the MPI license to OKX SG is more than a corporate achievement—it's a signal of maturing digital asset ecosystems where innovation meets accountability.

As Web3 adoption accelerates, platforms that combine cutting-edge technology with strong regulatory foundations will lead the next wave of financial transformation. With Gracie Lin at the helm and full authorization from MAS, OKX SG is well-positioned to drive responsible growth, foster user trust, and contribute to Singapore’s vision as a global fintech leader.

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice. Cryptocurrencies are volatile and carry risks. Always conduct your own research and consult with a qualified professional before making any financial decisions.