TL;DR
- Kraken enabled commission-free trading of over 11,000 stocks and ETFs for users in ten U.S. states, with plans to gradually expand access.
- The platform allows users to manage cryptocurrencies, stocks, stablecoins, and cash from a single account, with features like automatic reinvestment and fractional trading.
- The exchange aims to integrate traditional and digital assets into a single infrastructure, with plans to expand to the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia.
Kraken added stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to its platform for users in the United States. As of April 14, the company allows trading of more than 11,000 traditional assets without commission fees.
This new feature is available to clients located in New Jersey, Connecticut, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Idaho, Iowa, Rhode Island, Kentucky, Alabama, and the District of Columbia. Access will expand to other states as part of a phased rollout process.
The inclusion of stocks is part of a broader plan to build a unified platform for trading both digital and traditional assets. Kraken now enables users to manage cryptocurrencies, stocks, stablecoins, and cash from a single account, eliminating the need for external services. The system is integrated into its mobile apps and web version, offering a unified interface that simplifies switching between different asset types.
A Platform for All Operations
The service includes features such as automatic reinvestment between cryptocurrencies and stocks, as well as fractional trading of high-value assets. This allows users to purchase small portions of stocks that would otherwise be inaccessible due to their price. The platform is supported by Kraken Securities, a FINRA-regulated division responsible for ensuring trades comply with U.S. market standards.
Arjun Sethi, co-CEO of Kraken, stated that cryptocurrencies are no longer an isolated market and that their technical infrastructure is being used to facilitate trading across various asset classes, including commodities and currencies. According to Sethi, users value the ability to trade continuously, without time restrictions or geographical barriers.
Kraken Moves Into Traditional Platform Territory
The announcement comes during a period of high volatility in traditional markets. In early April, amid the crisis triggered by tariffs announced by Donald Trump, the S&P 500 index experienced a historic $5 trillion loss in market capitalization in just two days. The exchange aims to position itself as a strong alternative to traditional investment platforms.
The company also confirmed plans to extend its stock offering to other markets outside the United States. Target regions include the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia
