When it comes to cryptocurrency exchanges, few names are as respected as Kraken. Founded in 2011, this San Francisco–based platform has built its reputation around security, transparency, and reliability — traits often missing in the crypto industry.
But the question in 2025 is: Does Kraken still deserve its spot among the top crypto exchanges?
With new players offering zero-fee trading and faster onboarding, Kraken has responded with regulatory approvals, innovative features, and the launch of its peer-to-peer app Krak. Let’s take a deep look at what makes Kraken stand out, its pros and cons, and whether it’s still worth using this year.
What Is Kraken?
Kraken is a global cryptocurrency exchange that allows users to buy, sell, trade, and stake over 390+ cryptocurrencies. It supports major fiat currencies like USD, CAD, EUR, and GBP, making it an accessible choice for traders worldwide.
In 2025, Kraken’s ecosystem includes:
- Spot and Margin Trading
- Crypto Derivatives and Futures
- Staking & Yield Programs
- Fiat on/off ramps (including Interac e-Transfers in Canada)
- The new P2P app — “Krak” — for instant crypto payments
This combination makes Kraken not just a trading platform, but a complete crypto financial hub.
Kraken Key Features (2025 Update)
| Feature | Description | 2025 Update |
|---|---|---|
| Supported Assets | 390+ cryptocurrencies | Expanded altcoin support including newer Layer-2s |
| Trading Types | Spot, Margin, Futures, OTC | Futures leverage up to 50× in supported countries |
| Staking Rewards | Earn up to 25% APR (varies by token) | Commission around 20% on staking rewards |
| Security | Cold storage, 2FA, PGP email encryption | No major hacks in its history |
| New Additions | Peer-to-Peer “Krak” payments app | Send/receive crypto globally instantly |
| Licensing | MiCA (EU), FCA (UK), ongoing US compliance | SEC lawsuit dismissed in 2025 |
Kraken’s recent regulatory wins have strengthened its trust among global users — a rare feat in a volatile market.
Kraken Fees Explained
Trading Fees (Maker/Taker Model)
Kraken uses a transparent maker/taker fee structure:
- Maker Fee: from 0.16% (can drop to 0%)
- Taker Fee: from 0.26% (can drop to 0.10% or less with volume)
- Kraken+ Plan: Zero-fee trading on up to $10,000 monthly volume
Deposit & Withdrawal Fees (Canada Example)
- Interac e-Transfer Deposit: ~CA$5 or free (instant or same day)
- Debit Card Deposit: 3.75% + CA$0.25
- SWIFT Withdrawal: CA$13 (1–5 business days)
- EFT Withdrawal: 0.25% fee
Conversion Fees
When converting small balances, Kraken may charge up to 3%.
Compared to Coinbase or Gemini, Kraken remains one of the more affordable premium exchanges for intermediate and pro traders.
Is Kraken Safe?
Yes — Kraken is widely considered one of the safest crypto exchanges in the world.
Here’s why:
- Over 95% of assets stored in offline cold wallets.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), email encryption, and withdrawal whitelisting.
- Regular proof-of-reserves audits to verify user balances.
- No major hack incidents in over a decade of operation.
Even in 2024, when a small exploit led to the loss of roughly $3 million from internal funds, user funds were unaffected— reinforcing Kraken’s robust security systems.
Pros and Cons of Using Kraken
Pros
- Long-standing reputation and regulatory transparency
- Large crypto selection (390+ assets)
- Secure and compliant across multiple regions
- Kraken+ offers zero-fee monthly trading limits
- Fiat support for Canada, EU, US, and UK
- Launch of Krak, expanding beyond just trading
- Advanced tools like margin and futures trading
Cons
- Onboarding can take time during high-volume periods
- Not all features (like staking) are available in all countries
- Some fees are higher than emerging “zero-fee” competitors
- Interface can be complex for absolute beginners
Kraken for Canadian Users
For Canadians, Kraken is one of the best global exchanges that supports CAD deposits and Interac e-Transfers.
While local options like NDAX or Shakepay are faster for fiat transfers, Kraken wins in asset diversity, liquidity, and security.
It’s also compliant with FINTRAC, and users can stake crypto (where allowed) or transfer funds seamlessly between crypto and fiat.
Recent News: Kraken Expands in 2025
- June 2025: Kraken launched its new Krak P2P app, enabling instant payments in fiat and crypto.
- March 2025: SEC lawsuit against Kraken officially dismissed.
- May 2025: Kraken obtained full MiCA licensing in Europe, securing its foothold across the EU.
- July 2025: Kraken received FCA approval for its e-money business in the UK.
These moves confirm Kraken’s long-term commitment to regulation and global expansion.
Who Should Use Kraken?
Kraken is ideal for:
- Intermediate to advanced traders who want professional tools
- Investors seeking security and regulatory reliability
- Users in Canada and Europe looking for trusted fiat options
- Crypto earners who stake tokens for passive yield
- Anyone exploring P2P payments via the new Krak app
If you value safety, transparency, and a strong reputation, Kraken is a top-tier choice in 2025.
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Final Verdict: Is Kraken Still Worth It in 2025?
Absolutely. Kraken continues to set the benchmark for security, transparency, and global compliance in the crypto exchange world.
While it’s not always the cheapest for beginners, its trustworthiness, regulated operations, and advanced trading toolsmake it a platform built for the long haul.
If you want a platform that balances security, performance, and credibility, Kraken remains one of the top exchanges to use in 2025 and beyond.
