Updated October 23, 2026

Kraken review covers one of the oldest crypto exchanges still operating, launched in 2011 as one of the first venues for trading Bitcoin. This page sets out the security position, the trading products and the fee structure. Updated September 2026.

Kraken at a glance

• Launched: 2011, among the first Bitcoin exchanges

• Founders: Jesse Powell and Thanh Luu, based in California

• Regulatory milestone: first crypto exchange to secure an SPDI charter

• Derivatives: 95 plus perpetual futures contracts

• Margin trading: stable rollover, with predictable fees

• Staking: available through Kraken Earn

• NFT marketplace: integrated

• Kraken Pro: advanced platform for experienced traders

• Recognition: among the first exchanges listed on the Bloomberg Terminal

Why Kraken's security record matters

Kraken was the first crypto exchange to secure an SPDI charter, a Special Purpose Depository Institution licence issued in Wyoming. That is a genuine banking-style charter with capital and custody requirements attached, not a registration. In a sector where most platforms operate with no equivalent oversight, it is a meaningful distinction.

kraken s background

kraken review pros and cons

Operating continuously since 2011 is the second signal. The exchange has traded through multiple crypto cycles, including the collapses that removed many competitors. Inclusion on the Bloomberg Terminal among the first exchanges reflects institutional acceptance of its price data.

Trading products

Kraken is a trading platform first, and the product range reflects that. Spot trading covers the core assets. Derivatives offer 95 plus perpetual futures contracts for experienced traders. Margin trading includes stable rollover, meaning the financing fee is predictable rather than fluctuating, which makes the cost of holding a leveraged position calculable in advance.

Perpetual futures and margin both carry liquidation risk that crypto volatility makes real rather than theoretical. Size positions expecting a sharp adverse move, because in this asset class those arrive regularly.

Kraken Pro, Earn and the NFT marketplace

Kraken Pro is the advanced interface for traders who want depth of market, full order types and detailed charting rather than a simplified buy and sell screen.

kraken features

kraken s advanced trading options

features and offerings what to expect from kraken

Kraken Earn covers staking, paying a return for locking coins up. The return is real, and so is the combination of price risk on the asset and the lock-up period during which you cannot exit.

The NFT marketplace is better integrated than at most exchanges, covering discovery through to trading without leaving the platform.

Who Kraken suits

• Traders who weigh regulatory standing and track record above all else

• Experienced traders wanting perpetual futures and predictable margin costs

• Anyone staking coins who wants it on the same platform as their trading

• Less suitable for complete beginners, though the standard interface is approachable enough

Kraken combines the longest operating record in the sector with a real regulatory charter and a full derivatives offering. Compare it with other platforms in our crypto brokers list, and Crypto.com review covers a competitor with a wider token selection.

Kraken review: frequently asked questions

How long has Kraken operated?

Since 2011, making it one of the first Bitcoin exchanges and one of the few from that era still trading.

What is the SPDI charter?

A Special Purpose Depository Institution licence from Wyoming, carrying banking-style capital and custody requirements. Kraken was the first crypto exchange to obtain one.

Does Kraken offer derivatives?

Yes, 95 plus perpetual futures contracts, alongside margin trading with stable rollover so financing costs are predictable.

What is Kraken Pro?

The advanced platform for experienced traders, with depth of market, full order types and detailed charting.

Can I stake crypto on Kraken?

Yes, through Kraken Earn. Staking pays a return but locks your coins for a period during which you cannot sell.

Does Kraken have an NFT marketplace?

Yes, integrated into the platform and better developed than at most exchanges.

kraken customer support and security standards

start depositing funds to start trading

Setting up a Kraken account, in a few steps

user experience at kraken

kraken express verification

kraken exchange

kraken also levies margin charges

kraken critiquing the fee structure

Kraken Earn with staking focus

kraken pro for the seasoned traders

kraken nft marketplace