OKX has introduced decentralized-exchange trading to U.S. users, allowing them to swap tokens across networks like Solana, Base, and X Layer through self-custody wallets. The rollout arrives during a surge in global DEX activity, with October’s trading volume reaching a record $613.3 billion.
OKX Expands Access to On-Chain Trading
OKX now lets U.S. users trade on-chain tokens directly through the main app. The feature uses a smart-contract wallet, so users keep full control over their assets. The company says traders can move seamlessly between their exchange balances and on-chain activity without sending funds to an outside wallet.
Initial support includes:
- Solana
- Base
- X Layer
The exchange plans to add more chains soon, including Binance Smart Chain and others.
DEX Volume Hits an All-Time High
The launch comes during one of the busiest months the DEX market has ever seen. Global decentralized-exchange volume climbed from roughly $500 billion in September to $613.3 billion in October. Leading protocols also reported strong numbers, with Uniswap hitting $170.9 billion and PancakeSwap reaching $101.9 billion.
Analysts link the jump to several market trends:
- Renewed crypto volatility, highlighted by Bitcoin’s drop to about $104,600 in mid-October
- Rising interest in self-custody trading after years of centralized-exchange concerns
- Fresh momentum behind narratives such as meme tokens, privacy-focused assets, and ETF-driven altcoin activity
Blending CEX Convenience With DeFi Control
OKX aims to combine the familiarity of a centralized exchange with the autonomy of decentralized finance. The app’s passkey-enabled wallet replaces traditional seed phrases, which lowers the learning curve for on-chain newcomers. As more users explore decentralized options, this hybrid approach may help accelerate adoption in the United States.
October’s record-setting DEX volumes, paired with OKX’s push into self-custody trading, reflect a shift in user behavior toward on-chain platforms. Decentralized exchanges accounted for nearly 20% of all crypto trading activity last month, suggesting interest is expanding beyond niche communities. The next phase will depend on regulatory clarity, broader cross-chain support, and continued network integrations. These developments will determine whether the recent surge marks a long-term industry transition or a temporary reaction to market volatility.
