OKX Introduces Decentralized Trading for US Users as DEX Trading Volumes Soar

Summary:
Cryptocurrency exchange OKX is broadening its services to include decentralized trading for US users, allowing them to participate in the rapidly growing decentralized finance (DeFi) space. This new feature offers decentralized trading through the OKX app, enabling users to buy and sell tokens directly without losing control of their digital assets.

Key Takeaways

OKX has launched decentralized trading services for US users, enhancing its offering in the DeFi space.
Users can trade tokens via self-custody wallets, thereby maintaining control over their private keys.
The platform supports millions of tokens across several networks, including Solana and OKX’s own Ethereum layer-2 network.
DEX trading volumes have reached record highs, with $613 billion traded in October alone.
The move comes after OKX's recent settlement with the US Department of Justice and aims to simplify access to DEX trading.

OKX introduces decentralized trading for US users as DEX volumes soar

OKX Expands into Decentralized Finance

Cryptocurrency exchange OKX, which is primarily recognized for its centralized trading options, is stepping into the decentralized finance (DeFi) arena. The exchange now offers a feature that enables US users to trade tokens directly on decentralized markets.

The DEX trading option is accessible through the OKX app, allowing users to buy and sell tokens while keeping total control over their digital assets. Transactions occur through self-custody wallets, meaning users retain their private keys rather than relying on the exchange to store their funds.

As per OKX, this new feature allows access to millions of tokens across various platforms, including Solana, Base, and X Layer — OKX’s Ethereum layer-2 network built with the Polygon Chain Development Kit (CDK).

This initiative arrives at a time when decentralized exchange activity is booming. According to ForkLog, DEX trading volumes reached a staggering $613 billion in October, making up roughly 20% of total crypto exchange volume.

DEX trading volumes surge in 2025. Source: ForkLog

By incorporating DEX access into its app, OKX aims to solve long-standing challenges faced by traders on decentralized platforms. These challenges include the necessity to manage multiple wallets, transfer assets across blockchains, and handle gas fees.

This development follows OKX's announcement of its plans to re-enter the US market, after a recent $505 million settlement with the US Department of Justice.

The Ongoing Appeal of Decentralized Exchanges

OKX is launching its decentralized trading service in a market already populated with prominent players like Uniswap, PancakeSwap, and Hyperliquid. DEXs are vital to the DeFi ecosystem and are rapidly expanding across various sectors, especially in derivatives trading.

In September, DEX-based perpetual futures trading achieved a record $70 billion, highlighting the increasing liquidity and interest in decentralized derivatives markets.

Although DEXs can present accessibility and usability challenges, they are often preferred by seasoned traders for their lower fees and support for self-custody—principles that are foundational to the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

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