Kraken Moves to Capture Futures Trading With $1.5B NinjaTrader Acquisition: Report

Kraken is set to finalize a landmark $1.5b deal to acquire US-based retail futures trading platform NinjaTrader, a move expected to expand the exchange’s reach beyond traditional digital assets.

The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that an agreement could be announced as soon as Thursday morning. It signals a bold step forward in Kraken’s diversification strategy.

Industry insiders see the deal as one of the largest of its kind in the crypto space.

🚨🚨 Scoop: Cryptocurrency exchange Kraken is nearing a $1.5 billion deal for NinjaTrader, a U.S. retail futures trading platform, in a bid to expand its user base and grow into other asset classes. https://t.co/R52G5t4Tq5

— Lauren Thomas (@laurenthomas) March 19, 2025

NinjaTrader Partnership Fuels International Expansion

The acquisition will enable Kraken to offer crypto futures and derivatives under an established framework. NinjaTrader operates as a registered Futures Commission Merchant. It is expected to continue as a stand-alone platform, now bolstered by Kraken’s suite of trading and payment applications.

This integration is poised to strengthen Kraken’s presence in the US. It will also boost its reach in key international markets. These include the UK, continental Europe and Australia, according to the WSJ.

Integration of New Assets Through Acquisition

Founded in 2011, Kraken has rapidly evolved from a digital asset exchange to a multifaceted financial services company. The deal comes at a time when industry trends are shifting, with many players looking to capture opportunities across various asset classes including equities and derivatives.

Market analysts suggest that this acquisition could serve as a catalyst for further innovation in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency ecosystem.

In addition to expanding its product offerings, Kraken’s aggressive move may also help streamline regulatory challenges. By integrating NinjaTrader’s established compliance infrastructure, Kraken aims to reinforce its market position while continuing to drive growth in revenue and operational efficiency.

Exchange Eyes IPO in 2026 as a Friendlier Regulatory Era Unfolds

In a further display of strategic ambition, Kraken is also considering going public in 2026. This move comes amid a friendlier regulatory landscape under President Donald Trump’s leadership, which has reshaped how crypto companies navigate US markets.

Adding to the positive sentiment, Kraken recently announced that the US Securities and Exchange Commission has agreed in principle to drop its lawsuit against the exchange. The dismissal comes without any admission of wrongdoing, penalties or required changes to Kraken’s business practices.