The "OKX Lunar New Year Celebration" event recently took place in Da Nang, Vietnam, serving as a special gathering for industry builders. The event centered on product roadmaps, industry trends, and shared insights, aiming to foster meaningful dialogue among global cryptocurrency enthusiasts as they welcomed the new year.
OKX CEO Star joined via video link and delivered an impromptu speech offering deep reflections on the industry’s evolution and a clear vision for its future.
The Crypto Industry Deserves Recognition, Not Stigma
Having been involved in the crypto space for over a decade, I have witnessed significant shifts in how Bitcoin and digital assets are perceived.
One interesting observation is how the term "Crypto industry" is often translated into Chinese as "币圈" (coin circle). While "Crypto industry" carries a positive, innovation-driven connotation, "币圈" is sometimes used neutrally or even negatively. For instance, when someone moves into crypto after a failed venture, people might say, "That person has entered the coin circle now."
This linguistic bias reflects broader public misconceptions. In reality, the "coin circle" is no different from the "auto industry," "tech sector," or "streaming community." Everyone working in crypto should hold themselves to a high standard to reshape public perception positively. When the industry is reduced to speculation, its long-term value is often overlooked.
After years in this field, I am convinced that crypto is a technology-driven, innovative, and globally regulated sector with tremendous vitality. Crypto and AI are poised to be among the most promising industries of the next decade.
To improve the reputation of crypto, we must start with our own actions, treat peers with respect, and collectively build an innovative, transparent, and reputable industry.
OKX’s Approach to Token Listing and OKB: Prioritizing Compliance and User Protection
In 2024, OKX achieved numerous milestones globally. Rather than focusing on past successes, I want to address areas where we can improve.
OKX is often described as "unique" or even "overly cautious," especially regarding token listings. Compared to other platforms, OKX exercises significant restraint in asset selection—some might say we are not aggressive enough.
We view listing as a process of discovering high-quality assets. If we cannot confidently assess an asset’s quality, we would rather not recommend it to users. This cautious approach may sometimes make us seem indecisive, but it stems from our commitment to user protection and corporate values.
While this philosophy may impact short-term competitiveness, it contributes to a healthier ecosystem in the long run. We recognize the success of other platforms, but each company operates based on its unique DNA and principles. OKX is continuously learning and adapting to balance user expectations with our core values.
Another topic of discussion is OKB, OKX’s native token. Unlike some companies that resort to short-term tactics to boost token prices, we refrain from price predictions or market manipulation. We believe in the long-term value of OKB, much like Bitcoin’s historical trajectory—what once seemed expensive now appears remarkably cheap.
We are committed to responsible practices and compliance. Given the highly regulated nature of the crypto industry, price predictions can carry legal risks. Instead, OKX focuses on enhancing OKB’s utility and transparency. For example, we are advancing the development of the X Layer blockchain and publicly disclosing OKX’s OKB holdings.
Moving forward, OKX will maintain its prudent and rule-abiding approach, prioritizing technology and ecosystem development. We aim to evolve through open dialogue with our community and partners, fostering a transparent, fair, and sustainable crypto environment.
We hope to change the perception that OKX is "out of touch." By collaborating with industry partners, we can learn, grow, and collectively promote a market driven by innovation and value—not short-term gains.
Focusing on Product Development and Industry Growth
Over the years, I have observed that few investment funds outperform Bitcoin. Industry participants should avoid chasing "wealth secrets" and instead recognize that the sector’s growth itself presents the greatest opportunity. As a lighthearted example, if we set a standard that industry professionals should hold at least 10 Bitcoin, the industry would not disappoint us.
Bitcoin’s market cap is currently one-tenth that of gold, yet Bitcoin ETFs have already surpassed gold ETFs in inflows. This signals strong validation and suggests the industry has potential for hundredfold growth. Understanding and holding Bitcoin is a fundamental threshold for industry participants and investors.
Bitcoin’s value foundation and Ethereum’s ecosystem potential are dual engines for long-term growth—though this is not investment advice. It’s safe to say, "Always own Bitcoin, and participating in the industry within your means brings a sense of achievement."
Shifting from macro narratives to practical developments, OKX has made significant strides in Web3 wallets and exchange products. We are also preparing to launch a new product line in February. While our current offerings are not yet perfect, we are committed to continuous improvement.
Our goal is to integrate OKX seamlessly into users’ daily lives across multiple countries, especially as we secure more global licenses and enable local banking integrations. This new product will address critical pain points, such as smooth and convenient global deposits and withdrawals, while introducing further technological innovations.
Thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is OKX’s philosophy on token listings?
OKX adopts a highly selective and cautious approach to token listings. We prioritize asset quality and user protection over quantity, ensuring we only recommend projects we firmly believe in.
How does OKX enhance the utility of OKB?
OKB’s value is driven by real-world use cases and transparency. OKX is developing the X Layer blockchain and publicly disclosing token holdings to strengthen trust and utility.
What are the growth prospects for the crypto industry?
The industry is poised for significant expansion, with Bitcoin and Ethereum leading innovation. Global regulatory support and technological advances are key growth drivers.
How can users stay safe in the crypto market?
Users should conduct thorough research, diversify investments, and use reputable platforms. Explore more strategies for secure and informed participation.
What makes OKX different from other crypto exchanges?
OKX emphasizes long-term value, compliance, and user education rather than short-term gains. We focus on building sustainable products and ecosystems.
Will OKX expand its services to more countries?
Yes, OKX is actively pursuing licenses and partnerships worldwide to offer localized services, including seamless fiat integrations.
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not investment advice, a solicitation to buy or sell digital assets, or financial, legal, or tax guidance. Digital assets are volatile and high-risk; individuals should assess their financial situation and risk tolerance before participating. OKX services are subject to separate terms and regional availability.