Kraken Launches US Derivatives Platform for Crypto Futures

Kraken has launched its US-regulated derivatives service, Kraken Derivatives US, on July 15, enabling access to cryptocurrency futures on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. This move marks a significant expansion in the US market.

The integration allows users to trade futures alongside spot markets in a regulated environment. Kraken Derivatives US opens new channels for broad market access, blending digital and traditional assets. Led by Shannon Kurtas, Head of Exchange, Kraken, this initiative is part of their strategy to enhance capital efficiency and platform performance.

Kraken Expands US Market with Crypto Futures on CME

Kraken launched its US-regulated derivatives service, enhancing access to cryptocurrency futures listed on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME). Key leadership includes Head of Exchange Shannon Kurtas, who emphasized the blending of digital and traditional assets for improved trading efficiency. Kraken’s acquisition of NinjaTrader for $1.5 billion earlier in 2025 facilitates this expansion by securing necessary licensing and compliance.

The service ensures seamless integration between Kraken’s spot and derivatives platforms, promoting liquidity and margin efficiency. The exchange’s plan to offer futures for commodities, FX, and equities later in 2025 will further extend its market reach. This launch is expected to attract a significant number of US traders due to its comprehensive asset access.

Shannon Kurtas, Head of Exchange, Kraken, “With this launch, Kraken clients in the US can now trade futures alongside one of the world’s most liquid cryptocurrency spot markets. It’s a meaningful step in giving traders broad market access and increased capital efficiency within a regulated and high performance environment.”

Historical Moves Mirror Past Strategic Acquisitions

Did you know? Kraken’s acquisition of NinjaTrader echoes FTX US’s strategic acquisition of LedgerX in 2021, further establishing legitimacy for crypto derivatives trading in the US market.

Bitcoin (BTC) trades at $117,821.49 with a 24-hour trading volume of $127.14 billion, marking a 3.05% decrease in the past day. Its market cap sits at $2.34 trillion, maintaining dominance at 63.34%, as documented by CoinMarketCap. Over 90 days, Bitcoin saw a 40.12% increase, reflecting robust market performance.

According to Coincu research findings, the integration of NinjaTrader enhances Kraken’s ability to blend traditional finance with emerging digital assets. Upcoming plans for specialty futures contracts, including commodities and equities, may further attract diverse investor demographics to regulated US markets.