TLDR
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Kraken launches U.S. crypto futures via CME access on Kraken Pro.
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Bitcoin futures now tradable under CFTC rules with instant funding tools.
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Ether futures added, aiming to grow liquidity in a regulated framework.
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NinjaTrader deal gives Kraken futures clearing and U.S. compliance edge.
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Kraken expands globally, uniting crypto, equities, and derivatives trading.
Kraken has launched Kraken Derivatives US, offering direct access to CME-listed cryptocurrency futures for U.S. traders. The platform is now available via Kraken Pro, enabling trading of futures contracts alongside existing spot offerings. The service initially launched in Vermont, West Virginia, North Dakota, Mississippi and Washington, D.C.
Kraken Derivatives US is now live in Vermont, West Virginia, North Dakota, Mississippi and District of Columbia.
Coverage is expanding fast!
Full access is coming. Explore futures 👉 https://t.co/SJxMiEGsqN pic.twitter.com/UqXJJovZYz
— Kraken Pro (@krakenpro) July 15, 2025
Kraken Derivatives US operates under CFTC regulation following Kraken’s $1.5 billion acquisition of NinjaTrader. This move positions Kraken as a compliant derivatives venue with institutional-grade infrastructure. The platform supports seamless collateral transfers, allowing clients to manage spot and futures strategies through a single interface.
The rollout marks a step in Kraken’s expansion plan to become a multi-asset trading platform. The firm already offers commission-free equities trading and has revealed plans for tokenized assets. To broaden its U.S. footprint, Kraken is now targeting commodity, fixed income, FX and equity futures.
Bitcoin Futures Integration Strengthens U.S. Access
Kraken enables U.S. clients to trade Bitcoin futures directly through CME listings. This access supports advanced strategies within a secure and regulated environment. The offering builds on Kraken’s deep liquidity in the spot crypto market.
The integration allows clients to execute trades quickly while managing risk more efficiently. Instant funding capabilities ensure smooth movement of collateral between trading accounts. Clients can now deploy capital across markets with improved flexibility and fewer operational delays.
Kraken aims to consolidate digital and traditional markets under one system. The Bitcoin derivatives feature plays a key role in that strategy. It also enhances Kraken’s offering to meet the growing demand for regulated crypto trading products.
Ether Futures Added Amid Liquidity Challenges
Kraken Derivatives US supports CME-listed Ether futures contracts. These contracts cater to traders seeking exposure to ETH price movements through a regulated setup. While the Ether market lags in liquidity, Kraken plans to support its long-term development.
The company ensures its infrastructure can handle volume surges while maintaining execution speed. Although ETH derivatives have trailed Bitcoin, Kraken provides a solid entry point for U.S. traders. This is part of its strategy to increase market access while maintaining compliance.
Kraken expects Ether demand to grow as the broader market matures. It continues to invest in tools that offer control and performance. It helps address liquidity constraints and promotes market stability for Ethereum-related products.
Kraken Expansion Builds on Strategic Acquisitions
Kraken’s entry into U.S. crypto futures stems from its recent acquisition of retail broker NinjaTrader. This acquisition provided regulatory licenses and futures clearing infrastructure, enabling Kraken to launch a fully compliant U.S. derivatives service.
Kraken acquired a Cypriot investment firm to expand its regulated offerings in Europe. That deal secured a MiFID license, allowing derivatives trading across the EEA. Kraken’s European operations now offer CFDs and perpetual futures under EU regulation.
The company’s strategy centers on creating a unified platform for crypto, equities, and other asset classes. Its roadmap includes new asset categories and deeper market integrations. Kraken continues to leverage global acquisitions to build its regulated multi-asset ecosystem.
