With KuCoin's Alicia Kao on Whether Crypto Exchanges Are the New Banks

With KuCoin's Alicia Kao on Whether Crypto Exchanges Are the New Banks

February 27, 2026 · 7 min

About this episode

Alicia Kao discusses the evolution of centralized crypto exchanges and their future in a post-DeFi world.

Alicia Kao, Managing Director at KuCoin — one of the most globally active crypto exchanges. We explore how centralised exchanges are evolving in a post-DeFi world, KuCoin's global regulatory strategy, and why payment products may lead crypto's next wave. - Why centralised exchanges are no longer just for trading - KuCoin's licensing moves in Europe, Australia, and beyond - Will CEXs and TradFi converge over the next 5–10 years? - How KuCoin is adapting to new institutional and retail demands - Payment products, stablecoins, and the $14T market ahead - What differentiates KuCoin in an increasingly competitive exchange space - The biggest challenge for crypto exchanges in 2026 A sharp look at how the infrastructure of crypto is maturing across global markets. Powered by Phoenix Group The full interview is also available on my YouTube channel: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4ryTSzi

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