The cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve rapidly, and one of the latest developments making waves is the announcement by OKEX Group that it has secured multi-million dollar investments from prominent figures and institutions. While the details remain partially opaque, the implications for the future of digital asset trading platforms—and their ties to traditional finance leaders—are significant.
This strategic funding round includes backing from notable names such as Giant Network Group, founded by gaming and tech tycoon Shi Yuzhu (史玉柱), Qianhe Capital established by famed fund manager Wang Yawei, Tang Yue—the founder of eLong.com, and Longling Capital, associated with Meitu chairman Cai Wensheng. Early investor Ceyuan Ventures also participated in the follow-on investment.
👉 Discover how major investors are shaping the next era of crypto exchanges.
Strategic Investors Enter the Crypto Arena
The involvement of high-profile investors signals growing institutional confidence in blockchain-based financial infrastructure. Among them, Shi Yuzhu stands out due to his long-standing influence in China’s tech and entertainment sectors through Giant Network. His public stance on digital assets has been relatively progressive compared to other industry leaders.
Back in September 2017, shortly after Chinese regulators banned initial coin offerings (ICOs) and restricted cryptocurrency trading, Shi Yuzhu expressed a nuanced view on social media:
"We shouldn't demonize Bitcoin just because we don't fully understand it. Things we can't comprehend aren't necessarily harmful. If illegal activities occur during trading, they should be cracked down on—but that doesn’t mean the entire concept of Bitcoin should be outlawed."
He further speculated that Bitcoin could eventually become part of national foreign exchange reserves, highlighting a forward-thinking perspective on decentralized digital assets.
This philosophical openness may now translate into tangible support through equity investment, suggesting a broader trend: traditional business magnates are beginning to embrace blockchain technology not just as a speculative asset class but as foundational infrastructure for future financial systems.
Corporate Structure and Ownership Evolution
OKEX operates under Beijing Lekuda Network Technology Co., Ltd., with its primary shareholder being Beijing Ouke Chuanglian Network Technology Co., Ltd. (Ouke Chuanglian)—holding 100% ownership.
A pivotal change occurred on October 31, when Ouke Chuanglian underwent a shareholder restructuring. The original trio of individual shareholders—Xu Mingxing, Mai Gang, and Sun Jijun—were joined by three new institutional investors:
- Giant Network Group Corporation
- Shanghai Weiyi Investment Management Center (LP)
- Tianjin Feizhu Asset Management Partnership (LP)
Prior to this shift, Xu Mingxing held 56%, Mai Gang 32%, and Sun Jijun 12%. Post-restructuring equity distribution remains undisclosed, but the inclusion of these powerful entities suggests a deliberate move toward greater corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and global scalability.
Notably absent from the updated shareholder list are early backers such as Ceyuan Ventures, Mantu Capital, and angel investors like Cai Wensheng and Lei Jun (Lu Xiaojun)—the latter having publicly distanced himself from cryptocurrency ventures.
Lei Jun’s Exit: Clarifying Market Misconceptions
Market speculation一度 linked Xiaomi founder Lei Jun with ongoing involvement in Bitcoin mining or exchange operations. However, on November 27, he took to Weibo (China’s microblogging platform) to clarify:
"False! I have never personally purchased Bitcoin nor invested in any Bitcoin mining equipment manufacturer."
This statement aligns with his historically cautious approach to digital currencies. With no trace of Lei Jun in current ownership records, it appears he has fully divested from OKEX-related entities—an exit likely driven by regulatory uncertainty and personal risk assessment.
👉 See how top entrepreneurs are navigating the evolving crypto investment landscape.
Regulatory Progress and Global Expansion
Beyond capital infusion, OKEX Group emphasized that it has made substantial progress in applying for digital asset trading licenses across multiple jurisdictions. This indicates a clear strategy to operate within regulated frameworks globally—an essential step for long-term sustainability amid tightening oversight worldwide.
While specific countries and license types were not disclosed, such efforts suggest preparation for compliance with standards set by regulators like the U.S. SEC, Japan’s FSA, or Singapore’s MAS—each known for balancing innovation with investor protection.
Key Players Behind the New Investment Syndicate
Let’s break down the significance of each new backer:
1. Giant Network (Shi Yuzhu)
A leader in online gaming and fintech investments, Giant Network brings both financial muscle and operational expertise in managing large-scale digital platforms.
2. Qianhe Capital (Wang Yawei)
As one of China’s most respected hedge fund managers, Wang Yawei’s indirect participation via Shanghai Weiyi underscores institutional interest in blockchain’s long-term value proposition.
3. Longling Capital (Cai Wensheng)
Though Cai Wensheng is no longer a direct shareholder, his affiliated fund remains active in blockchain ecosystems, reflecting sustained belief in decentralized technologies despite market cycles.
These additions point toward a maturing governance model—one transitioning from founder-led startups to professionally managed organizations supported by seasoned financiers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Lei Jun still involved with OKEX?
A: No. Public records and his own statements confirm that Lei Jun has exited all related investments and has no current affiliation with OKEX.
Q: What does Shi Yuzhu’s investment mean for OKEX?
A: It signals stronger institutional backing and potentially improved credibility in navigating complex regulatory environments, especially in Asia.
Q: Are there any confirmed details about the investment amount?
A: OKEX disclosed only that it was “multi-million dollars.” Exact figures and valuation terms have not been released.
Q: How will this affect OKEX’s global operations?
A: With increased funding and regulatory licensing efforts underway, OKEX is likely positioning itself for expanded international services, including compliant spot and derivatives trading.
Q: Can we trust OKEX after ownership changes?
A: While ownership evolves, the focus on licensing and reputable investors enhances transparency and accountability—key factors for user trust.
👉 Learn how trusted platforms are building secure, compliant crypto ecosystems.
Core Keywords Integration
Throughout this analysis, key themes emerge that reflect both user search intent and industry relevance:
- OKEX investment news
- Shi Yuzhu Bitcoin opinion
- Lei Jun crypto stance
- Cryptocurrency exchange funding
- Digital asset trading license
- Blockchain institutional adoption
- Crypto regulatory compliance
- Giant Network blockchain strategy
These terms naturally align with queries from investors, traders, and tech observers seeking clarity on leadership shifts and platform legitimacy.
Conclusion
The latest funding round marks a pivotal chapter in OKEX Group’s journey—from a founder-driven startup to a more institutionally anchored player in the global digital economy. With influential backers like Shi Yuzhu lending both capital and vision, and former supporters like Lei Jun stepping away, the message is clear: the next phase of crypto growth will favor platforms that combine innovation with compliance, transparency with scalability.
As regulatory frameworks mature and institutional participation deepens, exchanges that proactively adapt—like OKEX appears to be doing—will lead the next wave of financial transformation.