Kraken Launches Regulated Crypto Derivatives Across EU After Cyprus Deal

Kraken is ramping up its presence in the European crypto derivatives market by activating a regulatory license acquired through a Cypriot investment firm earlier this year.

The move gives the U.S.-based exchange the green light to offer regulated derivatives products across the European Economic Area (EEA), which includes all EU member states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.

The license, granted under the EU’s MiFID framework, follows closely on the heels of Kraken’s UK derivatives rollout in May. With the EU launch, the company now significantly broadens its access to one of the most advanced crypto markets globally.

“Europe is quickly emerging as a key hub for digital asset trading,” said Kraken’s Head of Exchange, Shannon Kurtas, citing the region’s institutional demand and regulatory clarity. The company says the new offering represents the largest regulated crypto derivatives platform in the EU to date.

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Derivatives have become a cornerstone of Kraken’s global business, making up about 50% of the exchange’s total volume. Globally, such products account for up to 75% of crypto trading activity, according to Kraken’s head of derivatives, Alexia Theodorou.

Kraken’s expansion comes as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its global footprint in highly regulated jurisdictions, leveraging licenses to serve sophisticated investors in compliance with local laws.

Alexander Stefanov