OKX HashKey back Vietnam exchange licensing push

OKX Ventures and HashKey Capital are investing in Vietnam Prosperity Crypto Asset Exchange (CAEX), positioning it for entry into the country’s regulated crypto market.

The investment brings CAEX’s capital to about $380 million, meeting requirements to join Vietnam’s government pilot programme for licensed crypto trading under Resolution 05/2025.

The move comes as Vietnam implements its Digital Technology Industry Law, formally recognising crypto assets while introducing stricter oversight and licensing rules.

Under the partnership, OKX and HashKey will support CAEX across infrastructure, compliance, security and liquidity as the exchange prepares for regulated operations.

Vietnam is seeking to shift crypto activity onshore and curb offshore trading, following concerns over anti-money laundering standards that previously placed the country on the Financial Action Task Force grey list.

The country processed an estimated $200 billion in crypto transactions over the past year, making it one of the most active retail markets globally.

The deal reflects a broader race among global firms and local institutions to secure early positioning in Vietnam’s newly regulated crypto ecosystem.