Kraken Strengthens European Market Presence with Cyprus License for Crypto Derivatives

Kraken, a leading U.S.-based cryptocurrency exchange, has expanded its European footprint by activating a regulatory license acquired through a Cypriot investment firm. This strategic move allows Kraken to offer crypto derivatives across the European Economic Area (EEA), significantly broadening its reach in one of the world’s most advanced crypto markets. The license, granted under the EU’s Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) framework, covers all EU member states as well as Iceland. This development follows Kraken’s recent launch of derivatives trading in the UK in May 2025, underscoring the exchange’s commitment to regulatory compliance and market expansion. The activation of the Cyprus license positions Kraken to capitalize on the growing demand for regulated crypto derivatives in Europe, further solidifying its role as a key player in the global digital asset ecosystem.

Kraken Expands European Crypto Derivatives Offering with Cyprus License

Kraken has activated a regulatory license acquired through a Cypriot investment firm, enabling the U.S.-based exchange to offer crypto derivatives across the European Economic Area. The move follows Kraken’s UK derivatives launch in May and significantly expands its reach in one of the world’s most advanced crypto markets.

The license, granted under the EU’s MiFID framework, covers all EU member states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. "Europe is quickly emerging as a key hub for digital asset trading," said Kraken’s Head of Exchange Shannon Kurtas, highlighting the region’s institutional demand and regulatory clarity.

Ethereum Cofounder’s $262M Transfer to Kraken Sparks Market Jitters

Ethereum faced immediate selling pressure after cofounder Jeffrey Wilcke moved 105,736 ETH ($262 million) to Kraken exchange. The transaction triggered a 2% price drop within minutes, though blockchain analysts suggest the funds may be undergoing custody reorganization rather than preparing for liquidation.

On-chain patterns show the ETH redistributed across eight fresh wallets, while exchange reserves hit historic lows at 4.9% of circulating supply. Market participants remain divided on whether this represents strategic portfolio management or precursor to institutional selling.

XRP Market Depth Shows Growing Maturity Beyond Speculative Burst: Kraken Report

Kraken’s latest report underscores XRP’s evolution from a speculative asset to a cornerstone of the digital currency ecosystem. The analysis, conducted by CF Benchmark, details XRP’s foundational role in the XRP Ledger and its rising prominence in the crypto market.

Despite recent price volatility—down 3% this week and 11% from last week’s peak of $2.65—XRP maintains its position as the third-largest cryptocurrency by market cap at $137 billion. The November-January rally, driven by regulatory optimism, solidified its standing.