Kraken Expands Beyond Crypto: Offers Commission-Free Stock and ETF Trading for US Traders

Kraken, a leading cryptocurrency exchange, is diversifying its offerings by introducing commission-free trading of US-listed stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This move aims to attract traditional investors and provide a unified platform for trading both digital assets and equities. With access to over 11,000 US-listed stocks and ETFs, users can now manage their investments in a single account.

This service will initially be available to US-based users in some selected states, including New Jersey, Connecticut, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Idaho, Iowa, Rhode Island, Kentucky, Alabama, and the District of Columbia. By integrating stocks and ETFs into its platform, Kraken is bridging the gap between traditional finance and crypto, offering users a more comprehensive trading experience.

This development comes amid market turbulence triggered by US President Donald Trump’s tariff announcement, which led to a significant market downturn. The S&P 500 recently experienced its largest record loss, shedding $5 trillion in market capitalization over two days. Kraken’s phased national rollout aims to capitalize on this shift, with plans to broaden access to additional US states in the coming months.

What Kraken Hopes to Achieve

Kraken’s expansion into traditional investment products reflects the growing utility of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. According to Arjun Sethi, co-CEO of Kraken, crypto is “becoming the backbone for trading across asset classes,” including equities, commodities, and currencies. This shift was due to the increasing demand for 24/7 global access to financial markets.

Clients seek a seamless, all-in-one trading experience as the financial landscape evolves. The exchange believes its move into traditional equities is a natural step towards achieving this goal. By integrating stocks and crypto into a single platform, the firm hopes to provide users with a more comprehensive trading experience.

The future of trading is likely to be built on blockchain rails, enabling borderless and more efficient transactions.

Furthermore, Kraken plans to expand its stock trading offering to large international markets, including the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia. This move will enable users in these regions to access a broader range of financial products, including stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies.