Pi Network Forces OKX and Major Exchanges to Tighten KYB Compliance—Or Else

Decentralized upstart Pi Network just dropped the regulatory hammer. The project’s latest move pressures top-tier exchanges like OKX to implement stringent Know-Your-Business (KYB) protocols—or risk losing access to Pi’s mobile-mined token ecosystem.

While Pi’s grassroots growth defies traditional launch models, its compliance push mirrors the industry’s awkward adolescence: decentralized ideals crashing into Wall Street’s rulebook. Cynics note the timing—just as institutional money starts eyeing ’alternative’ assets while still demanding paperwork thicker than a Bitcoin whitepaper.

Exchanges now face a familiar dilemma: bend to Pi’s requirements or miss out on a user base numbering in the millions. Either way, the message is clear—crypto’s wild west days are over, and even the rebels are writing policy now.

While most crypto projects chase hype, but Pi Network is doing something very different; it’s building trust by following strong rules. While others only check users (KYC), Pi is also checking the businesses (KYB) that want to work with it.

Big exchanges like OKX, Bitget, and MEXC have already agreed to follow these rules. So why are these big names okay with more work and more rules? There’s something special going on with Pi, and it might change how people see crypto.

Why Are Exchanges Willing to Go Through KYB for Pi?

Normally, exchanges prefer smoother onboarding. KYB is a lengthy, detail-heavy process. But in Pi’s case, analysts believe exchanges see something bigger on the horizon.

According to insights from Dr. Altcoin, Pi Network’s KYB requirement aligns directly with a global project called the Digital Currency Global Initiative, a joint effort by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which is a United Nations agency, and Stanford University’s Future of Digital Currency Initiative (FDCI).

This global initiative focuses on five big goals:

• Financial Inclusion – Making digital money systems open and fair to everyone.
• Interoperability – Making sure systems and networks can talk to each other easily.
• Identity Verification – Pushing for strong KYC and KYB rules for trust.
• Programmable Money – Allowing smart contracts and automation.
• Decentralized Finance – Building powerful, open markets.

Interestingly, Pi Network checks all five boxes, and it may be the only crypto project that does. Not only does it ask users to complete KYC, but it also insists that exchanges and businesses meet KYB standards.

Pi Network Eyes Bigger Stage

Notably, OKX, the first exchange to complete KYB with Pi, is also a listed partner in the global project.

And with Pi’s roots tracing back to Stanford, it’s no surprise the project is working closely with institutions that emphasize trust, transparency, and regulation—traits often missing in crypto. 

With Consensus 2025 just around the corner, many are wondering, will Dr. Nicolas Kokkalis, the mind behind Pi. Will Dr. Nicolas Kokkalis reveal new investors or partners?