In a strategic move to strengthen its global regulatory standing, leading cryptocurrency exchange OKX has appointed Linda Lacewell, former Superintendent of the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), as its new Chief Legal Officer (CLO). Lacewell, who has been a board member at OKX since 2024, now takes on a pivotal role in overseeing the exchange’s regulatory and compliance efforts worldwide.
A Key Appointment Amid Regulatory Expansion
OKX’s announcement highlights Lacewell’s appointment as a critical step in reinforcing the company’s legal framework and licensing strategy. The exchange stated:
“We’ve appointed Linda Lacewell as our new Chief Legal Officer to bolster our global regulatory presence and reinforce OKX’s position as a licensing juggernaut… Her leadership comes at a pivotal time as we expand into key markets such as Europe and UAE.”
Lacewell’s extensive experience in financial regulation, cybersecurity, and anti-money laundering (AML) measures positions her as a strategic asset for OKX. As the head of NYDFS, she played a key role in overseeing banking, insurance, and fintech firms in New York, making her a seasoned professional in navigating complex regulatory environments.
Leadership Transition: Mauricio Beugelmans Exits
The appointment of Lacewell coincides with the departure of Mauricio Beugelmans, who served as OKX’s CLO for nearly three years and eight months. Beugelmans’ exit, which reportedly took place in March 2025, remains undisclosed as neither OKX nor Beugelmans has provided further comments.
This leadership transition comes at a crucial time, as OKX faces increased regulatory scrutiny. Recently, the Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed a lawsuit against the exchange, alleging that it provided services to clients without the necessary licensing. With Lacewell now at the helm of OKX’s legal team, the exchange aims to enhance compliance measures while continuing its global expansion.
OKX’s Strategic Focus on Compliance
With regulatory bodies worldwide tightening oversight on crypto firms, OKX’s decision to appoint Lacewell underscores its commitment to compliance and innovation. The exchange aims to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape effectively, leveraging Lacewell’s expertise to strengthen its legal infrastructure.
Also Read: OKX Halts DEX Services After EU Probe Links Platform to $1.5B Bybit Hack
As OKX expands into new jurisdictions, Lacewell’s leadership is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the company’s regulatory strategy, ensuring sustainable growth in an increasingly complex global market.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
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