OKX Appoints Linda Lacewell as CLO to Boost Global Expansion

OKX, a prominent global cryptocurrency exchange, has appointed Linda Lacewell as its new Chief Legal Officer (CLO). This strategic move is part of the company's broader plan to accelerate its global expansion and strengthen its legal and regulatory compliance in key markets.

Linda Lacewell, who joined OKX’s board in 2024, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Previously, she served as the Superintendent of the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), where she played a pivotal role in modernizing the cryptocurrency licensing framework. Her leadership in cybersecurity and financial crime investigations will be invaluable as OKX navigates the complex regulatory landscapes of Europe and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

This appointment replaces Mauricio Beugelmans and underscores OKX’s commitment to enhancing its legal presence and regulatory compliance. The new CLO will play a critical role in shaping OKX’s future on the global stage, ensuring that the company meets and exceeds the highest compliance standards worldwide.

OKX has made significant strides in expanding its market presence. The company secured licenses in key jurisdictions, including Dubai in 2022 and Singapore, where it introduced Singapore dollar (SGD) deposit and withdrawal services in November 2024. In early 2025, OKX obtained a license, making it one of the first cryptocurrency exchanges authorized to offer services across Europe.

Despite these successes, OKX faces regulatory challenges in some major markets. Due to stringent compliance requirements, it has yet to gain entry into the US, UK, Canada, and other restricted regions. In 2023, OKX withdrew its Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license application in Hong Kong, highlighting the difficulties of meeting regulatory demands in certain jurisdictions.

OKX’s user base has surged, growing from 20 million in 2023 to 50 million in 2024—an impressive 150% increase. This growth reflects the company’s ability to adapt to regulatory environments and provide secure, compliant services to its users.

Linda Lacewell’s appointment as CLO is a strategic move that aligns with OKX’s global expansion plans. Her expertise in regulatory compliance and cybersecurity will be crucial as the company continues to navigate the complexities of the global cryptocurrency market. OKX’s commitment to regulatory compliance and user security positions it well for continued growth and success in the years to come.