OKEX, a prominent crypto-currency exchange platform, was founded in 2014. The company's name is actually an abbreviation derived from its original name "OKCoin Exchange." Initially, OKEX focused on trading Bitcoin and Chinese Yuan (CNY), targeting the vast and growing market within China where it started.

The year of establishment, 2014, marked a pivotal period for cryptocurrencies as they were gaining significant traction globally. However, by late 2017, recognizing the global potential of its services and following regulatory changes in China that restricted domestic crypto exchanges, OKEX shifted its operations offshore to Malta. This strategic move allowed it to serve an international audience effectively.

OKEX has since evolved into a comprehensive trading platform offering various financial instruments including spot markets, futures, perpetual swaps, and more recently options trading. It supports multiple cryptocurrencies alongside fiat currencies for trading pairs. The company has maintained its growth trajectory by continuously innovating its product offerings and improving user experience through advancements in technology such as blockchain integration.

In summary, OKEX's foundation in 2014 set the stage for it to become one of the leading names in global cryptocurrency exchanges. Its ability to adapt to changing market conditions and regulatory landscapes has been crucial for its success over these years.