Kraken-Backed Ink Launches Tydro: Aave v3 White-Label Platform with INK Token Integration
In a significant development for the decentralized finance (DeFi) sector, Kraken-backed ethereum Layer 2 network Ink has unveiled Tydro, a white-label lending and borrowing protocol built on Aave v3's sophisticated technology. This strategic move represents Kraken's continued expansion into the DeFi space and demonstrates the growing convergence between centralized and decentralized financial services. The platform's integration of the INK token as a core incentive mechanism marks a pivotal step in creating sustainable liquidity and user engagement within the Ink ecosystem. Tydro's deployment on Aave v3 infrastructure ensures access to cutting-edge DeFi features including enhanced capital efficiency, cross-chain functionality, and improved risk management protocols. The platform will leverage Aave v3's advanced capabilities such as portal assets for cross-chain operations and efficient modes for optimized borrowing, positioning Tydro as a competitive player in the crowded DeFi lending market. Perhaps most notably, Kraken's planned integration of Tydro with its centralized exchange platform signals a major bridge between traditional crypto trading and decentralized financial services. This integration will provide Kraken's substantial user base with seamless access to DeFi protocols, potentially driving significant adoption and liquidity to the Tydro platform. The move exemplifies the growing trend of major exchanges expanding their service offerings to include decentralized financial products. The INK token's role in incentivizing user participation creates a compelling value proposition for both existing Ink ecosystem participants and new users entering through Kraken's platform. This token integration strategy aims to bootstrap liquidity while rewarding early adopters, creating a flywheel effect that could accelerate platform growth. As of October 2025, this development represents one of the most significant institutional forays into DeFi infrastructure, potentially setting new standards for how traditional crypto businesses integrate with decentralized protocols. This launch comes at a time when the DeFi sector continues to mature, with institutional players increasingly recognizing the value of decentralized financial infrastructure. Kraken's backing provides Tydro with immediate credibility and access to resources that could accelerate its adoption curve. The platform's success could serve as a blueprint for future collaborations between centralized exchanges and DeFi protocols, potentially reshaping how users interact with digital asset financial services.
Kraken-Backed Ink Launches Tydro, a White-Label Aave v3 Platform with INK Token Integration
Ink, an Ethereum Layer 2 network supported by Kraken, has introduced Tydro—a decentralized lending and borrowing protocol built on Aave v3's technology. The platform will utilize the INK token to incentivize user participation and bolster liquidity within the Ink ecosystem. Kraken plans to integrate Tydro with its centralized exchange, offering clients seamless access to DeFi services.
Tydro supports assets like wrapped Ethereum (wETH), Wrapped Bitcoin (kBTC), and stablecoins including USDT and GHO. The protocol aims to serve as foundational infrastructure for DeFi on Ink, combining Aave's battle-tested framework with a token-driven incentive model. Kraken's integration could bridge centralized and decentralized finance, expanding DeFi accessibility for its user base.
Kraken Acquires Small Exchange for $100M
Kraken has bolstered its position in the U.S. derivatives market with the $100 million acquisition of Small Exchange, a CFTC-regulated Designated Contract Market, from IG Group. The deal positions Kraken among a select group of trading platforms holding derivatives licenses across the U.S., U.K., and E.U.
This strategic move underscores Kraken's commitment to expanding institutional and retail access to regulated crypto trading products. The acquisition signals growing maturity in the crypto derivatives space as major exchanges consolidate market share.
