Kraken Expands Kraken Pro with Forex Perpetual Futures

Kraken, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange, has expanded its offerings by introducing forex perpetual futures contracts on its Kraken Pro platform. This new feature, launched on April 18, allows traders to participate in the global currency markets. Initially, traders can access two forex futures contracts: the euro-US dollar (EUR/USD) and the British pound-US dollar (GBP/USD). These contracts offer 20x leverage, providing traders with more investment opportunities in key currency pairs.

The addition of forex futures to Kraken's platform is a significant development for the exchange. Kraken Pro already supports trading of over 300 crypto perpetual futures contracts. By extending its services to forex trading, Kraken enables users to manage currency trades alongside their cryptocurrency activities on the same platform. The exchange plans to introduce additional forex pairs in the near future, offering traders more options for their trading strategies.

Alexia Theodorou, the Head of Derivatives at Kraken, highlighted the company's position as a leading spot Forex provider in the cryptocurrency market. The introduction of forex perpetual contracts strengthens Kraken's offerings and provides traders with a crucial tool to manage their exposure to major cryptocurrencies. These contracts operate without an expiration date, allowing traders to maintain market access without deadlines. The contracts are based on market indices and use the DxFeed’s Composite Forex Index as their benchmark, enabling traders to enhance their strategies with real-time market modifications.

Kraken's implementation of forex contracts is part of its strategy to expand into approved markets and establish more trading opportunities for its users. The company aims to provide innovative methods for traders to connect with established financial sectors. This move is in response to trader requests for new solutions in traditional financial markets.

Kraken has already seen significant activity in the forex spot market, with over $5.4 billion in trades in 2025. The majority of these trades focused on the EUR/USD and GBP/USD currency pairs, reflecting their extensive market interest. This strong interest prompted Kraken to develop additional trading tools, including FX perps, to cater to trader demand.

In March, Kraken acquired NinjaTrader for $1.5 billion, gaining access to its retail futures trading platform. This acquisition allows Kraken to offer trading services to a broader range of customers, including access to both cryptocurrency and traditional market instruments. The move demonstrates Kraken's strategic vision to expand its market significance in both the traditional finance and cryptocurrency sectors.

Looking ahead, Kraken has plans to launch an initial public offering (IPO) during the first quarter of 2026. The positive regulatory shifts in the U.S. have enabled the company to prepare for this significant milestone. Kraken continues to develop new services and expand its operations, solidifying its leadership role in both cryptocurrency and standard financial sectors.