Curious about Kraken? It’s a market-leading crypto exchange, and our review covers everything you need to know about the platform and why it’s a fan favourite.
Kraken is one of the oldest and most reputable cryptocurrency exchanges globally. Founded in 2011 and officially launched in 2013, Kraken has earned a reputation for strong security, a great selection of cryptocurrencies, and advanced trading features suitable for both individuals and institutions. With support for hundreds of cryptocurrencies and a wide array of fiat options, Kraken is a comprehensive platform for buying, selling, and staking digital assets.
Kraken overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2011 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco, California |
| Cryptocurrencies | 410+ |
| Fiat currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, CAD, AUD, and CHF |
| Trading fees | 0%–0.4% (maker-taker model) |
| Staking? | Yes (varies by region) |
| Margin & futures? | Yes, up to 5x (margin), 50x (futures) |
| Regulated? | Globally licensed and FinCEN-registered |
| Valuation | $10 billion (private) |
| Mobile app? | iOS and Android |
Kraken pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Supports 410+ cryptocurrencies and multiple fiat currencies | Pro interface may be complex for beginners |
| Advanced trading tools, including margin and futures | Limited availability in certain U.S. states |
| Highly secure with a strong track record | Past regulatory scrutiny (e.g., SEC, CFTC settlements) |
| Low trading fees, especially with Kraken Pro | Some users report prompt account closures due to changing restrictions |
| Institutional-grade features and OTC desk | |
| Globally licensed and regulated |
Who is Kraken best for?
Kraken is best suited for intermediate to advanced cryptocurrency traders who want access to a wide range of cryptocurrencies, advanced trading options, and low fees. Its secure infrastructure and strong liquidity also make it appealing to institutional clients and high-volume traders.
Beginners can also benefit from Kraken’s simpler interface, and the platform does offer strong educational materials and a knowledge base for newcomers.
Which cryptocurrencies are available on Kraken?
Kraken offers access to over 410+ cryptocurrencies, including major assets like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and many altcoins. Fiat currency support is also extensive, including USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, CAD, AUD, and CHF. Some cryptocurrencies may be restricted depending on your location.
Kraken trading experience
Kraken offers two primary trading platforms:
- Kraken is ideal for investors looking to quickly buy or sell crypto with a streamlined interface.
- Kraken Pro caters to advanced users, with tools such as real-time order books, customizable charting, technical analysis indicators, and complex order types.
Kraken also launched the first dark pool for Bitcoin trading in 2015, targeting institutions seeking to minimize slippage. In 2024, it introduced Kraken Institutional, tailored for hedge funds, asset managers, and high-frequency traders.
Through its acquisition of Crypto Facilities, Kraken also provides regulated futures contracts in Europe. In 2025, it expanded beyond crypto via a major acquisition of NinjaTrader, opening access to other asset classes like futures and forex.
Kraken fees
Kraken’s fees are highly competitive, especially for high-volume traders:
Kraken
- Uses a spread model (1–1.5%) + variable fees depending on payment method.
Kraken Pro
- Maker fees: 0.00%–0.25%
- Taker fees: 0.08%–0.40%
Deposits via ACH, wire transfers, and SWIFT are generally free or low-cost, while fiat withdrawals may incur fixed fees depending on currency and method.
Kraken security
Kraken is consistently rated among the most secure exchanges in the world. Key security measures include:
- 95%+ of customer funds held in air-gapped cold storage
- Mandatory two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Email confirmations for withdrawals
- Global Settings Lock and Master Key security tools
- ISO/IEC 27001 and SOC 2 Type I certifications
- Regular penetration testing by Kraken Security Labs
Is Kraken safe?
Kraken is generally considered one of the most secure cryptocurrency exchanges in the industry. Since its launch in 2011, it has built a strong track record with no major hacks affecting client funds; an impressive feat given its size and longevity. The platform uses a multi-layered security approach, including storing over 95% of customer assets in air-gapped cold wallets, enforcing two-factor authentication (2FA), and offering features like Global Settings Lock, withdrawal whitelists, and Master Key protections. These tools give users significant control over account security.
In addition to its technical defenses, Kraken is also heavily regulated. It holds licenses in the U.S., UK, Canada, Japan, and Australia, and was the first crypto company to receive a banking charter (SPDI) in Wyoming. Kraken also undergoes regular third-party audits and has earned SOC 2 Type I and ISO/IEC 27001 certifications. Its transparent Proof-of-Reserves audits further demonstrate a commitment to financial integrity. While no exchange is entirely risk-free, Kraken’s security infrastructure and regulatory compliance place it among the safest platforms for trading and holding crypto.
Staking and Kraken Earn
Kraken supports staking for a wide range of assets such as Ethereum (ETH), Polkadot (DOT), Cardano (ADA), and more, offering competitive APYs. Users can choose flexible or bonded staking, depending on their preferences for liquidity and returns.
U.S. staking was paused in 2023 following a settlement with the SEC, but has since resumed under revised terms to ensure regulatory compliance.
Is Kraken regulated?
Kraken holds licenses and registrations in multiple jurisdictions:
- Registered as a Money Services Business (MSB) with FinCEN in the U.S.
- Regulated by the FCA in the UK via its CryptoFacilities subsidiary
- Licensed by AUSTRAC in Australia, FINTRAC in Canada, and the FSA in Japan
In 2020, Kraken received Wyoming’s first Special Purpose Depository Institution (SPDI) charter, making it the first crypto exchange with a U.S. banking license.
The company has, however, faced regulatory actions like many other exchanges in the US due to the lack of a clear regulatory environment for exchanges. It settled with the CFTC in 2021 over margin trading and paid a fine to the U.S. Treasury in 2022 over sanctions violations. A high-profile SEC lawsuit in late 2023 alleged operating as an unregistered exchange and mishandling user funds. This suit has since been dropped.
Kraken tax considerations
Using Kraken, or any crypto exchange, comes with tax obligations that vary by country, but in most jurisdictions, cryptocurrency is treated as property. This means that activities like selling, trading, or staking crypto on Kraken can trigger tax events.
Kraken itself does not automatically report to tax authorities in every country, but it does provide users with tools to manage their tax reporting. The exchange is partnered with leading crypto tax calculator Koinly to help users easily manage their tax liability, wherever they live. Learn more about how to get your Kraken tax forms.
Kraken customer support
Kraken offers 24/7 customer support via:
- Live chat
- Email and support tickets
- Knowledge base and security education center
- Highly responsive Reddit team
While support quality is generally good, some users report delays in account verification. In response to this, the company has invested in scaling its support infrastructure in recent years.
Is Kraken right for you?
Kraken is a secure, professional-grade exchange with a long-standing track record and global credibility. Its platform is especially appealing to seasoned traders, institutions, and users seeking access to many cryptocurrencies, advanced trading features, and industry-leading security.
While not the simplest platform for beginners, Kraken offers enough tools, educational content, and simplified interfaces to support new users willing to learn. Its commitment to compliance, institutional growth, and international expansion positions it as one of the most reliable exchanges in the crypto space.
