Established in 2011, Kraken has emerged as a leading and highly secure cryptocurrency exchange globally, known for its institutional framework and strict regulatory compliance. Founded by Jesse Powell in the US, this pioneering platform attracts millions of traders worldwide. Dive into our comprehensive analysis uncovering the strengths and weaknesses of this historic exchange shaping the crypto industry.
Kraken represents one of the oldest crypto exchanges in the market, founded in 2011 by Jesse Powell with a mission to accelerate the global adoption of cryptocurrencies. Legally registered as Payward, Inc. in the United States, the platform has established itself as an essential reference for institutional traders and security-conscious investors.
Kraken’s strength lies in its multi-platform ecosystem : the classic interface for simplified purchases, Kraken Pro for advanced trading, and Kraken+ offering up to $10,000 monthly trading without fees. This segmented approach meets the needs of all investor profiles, from beginners to professionals.
Kraken distinguishes itself through exemplary regulatory compliance and regular security audits, positioning the platform as one of the most reliable in the industry. With more than 200 cryptocurrencies supported, the exchange offers remarkable investment diversity in a highly secure environment.
Let’s examine the platform’s features.
Spot trading forms the foundation of Kraken’s offering, allowing direct buying and selling of cryptocurrencies. This fundamental feature provides simple and transparent access to 200+ cryptocurrencies, with fiat pairs in EUR, USD, GBP, CAD, CHF, and AUD eliminating multiple conversions.
Kraken excels in spot trading liquidity thanks to its institutional user base and millions of active traders. The tight spreads and order book depth guarantee optimal execution even on large volumes, particularly on major pairs like BTC/EUR and ETH/USD.
The security of spot trading benefits from cold storage of funds and Kraken’s secure infrastructure. Each spot transaction is immediately credited to the user’s wallet, offering complete control over purchased assets without settlement delays.
Kraken Pro constitutes the core of the professional offering with institutional-grade infrastructure designed for the most demanding traders. This advanced platform offers sophisticated trading tools including limit orders, stop-loss, take-profit, and algorithmic trading features to optimize investment strategies.
OTC trading (Over-The-Counter) meets the needs of institutions and high-net-worth individuals with bespoke transactions for significant volumes. This unique feature allows avoiding price impact on the market during substantial transactions.
The integrated staking allows generating passive income on numerous cryptocurrencies with competitive yields, although a 20% commission is deducted from rewards. This feature democratizes access to blockchain validation revenues.
The classic Kraken interface prioritizes simplicity for instant buys and sells, with transparent fees displayed before confirmation. This dual approach allows beginners to easily access cryptocurrencies while offering experts Kraken Pro’s professional tools.
The risk management tools include customizable alert systems, advanced conditional orders, and protection mechanisms against excessive volatility. Kraken also offers detailed tax reports facilitating tax declarations in many countries.
The multi-level security combines two-factor authentication, cold storage of funds, and regular security audits by independent firms. This holistic approach to security reassures institutional investors and individuals concerned about asset protection.
The Kraken mobile app offers a complete experience with access to spot trading, instant purchases, and real-time portfolio monitoring. The app also integrates stock trading alongside cryptocurrencies, expanding investment possibilities.
The educational features include comprehensive guides, market analyses, and learning resources to support users in their crypto trading education. This educational approach strengthens Kraken’s reputation as a responsible platform.
Kraken’s customer support operates 24/7 with a professional team trained in crypto trading specifics. The platform maintains an active presence on social media and offers a ticket system for complex requests, although user reviews sometimes highlight variable response times.
Kraken offers a carefully curated catalog of over 200 cryptocurrencies, prioritizing quality over quantity with rigorous project screening. This selective approach ensures users access to the strongest and most promising assets in the crypto market. The platform naturally supports all major cryptocurrencies : Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL) and others, which benefit from the deepest liquidity and most competitive spreads.
“Next-generation” tokens are well represented with Cardano (ADA), Polkadot (DOT), Chainlink (LINK), and Avalanche (AVAX). Kraken also pays particular attention to established DeFi projects and blockchain infrastructure tokens, avoiding meme coins and favoring assets with real utility.
The platform excels in supporting stablecoins with USDT, USDC, DAI, and USDT, essential for trading strategies and capital preservation. These assets serve as the basis for many trading pairs and allow securing profits during periods of uncertainty. Kraken also offers direct fiat pairs in EUR, USD, GBP, facilitating cryptocurrency access for European investors.
Let’s now examine the strengths and areas for improvement of the Kraken CEX.
It is important to note that Kraken applies a differentiated pricing policy depending on the platforms and trading volumes.
Deposit fees are completely free for SEPA transfers via several providers (ClearJunction, Plaid, Bank Frick, Banking Circle) with a minimum of €1 and timeframes of 0 to 3 business days. PayPal deposits are also free with almost instant processing, expanding funding options.
Withdrawal fees amount to €0.90 for SEPA transfers via ClearJunction, positioning Kraken among the most competitive in the market. Cryptocurrency withdrawals apply variable fees depending on the asset and blockchain used, reflecting the actual costs of the networks.
Trading fees on Kraken Pro follow a degressive scale : 0.25% maker / 0.40% taker for beginners, decreasing to 0% maker / 0.10% taker for volumes exceeding $10 million. Even though this structure is supposed to reward active traders, these are among the highest fees on the market.
| Exchange | Spot Trading Fees | Futures Fees | SEPA Deposit Fees | Premium Offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kraken | 0.25%/0.40% | Available | Free | Kraken+ 0% ($10k/month) |
| Bitget | 0.10% | 0.020%/0.060% | Free | VIP Discounts |
| Bybit | 0.10% | 0.020%/0.055% | Free | VIP Discounts |
| Binance | 0.10% | 0.020%/0.040% | Free | BNB discounts |
| Coinbase | 0.60% | N/A | Free | Coinbase Pro |
As you can see above, fees are at least twice as high on Kraken as they are on competitors such as Bitget, Bybit, or even Binance.
Let’s see how to create an account on the platform in 6 steps taking just a few minutes.
Step 1 : Initial Registration and Email Verification
Visit kraken.com and click on “Create Account”. Enter your email address, create a strong password of at least 8 characters, and accept the terms of service. Check your inbox and click the confirmation link to activate your account.
Step 2 : Mandatory Identity Verification (KYC)
Complete the Know Your Customer process by providing your personal information : full name, date of birth, residential address, and nationality. This step is mandatory to access trading features and complies with international regulatory standards.
Step 3 : Upload Identity Documents
Upload a valid ID (passport, identity card, driver’s license) and a recent proof of address. Kraken uses advanced verification technologies to validate document authenticity, a process that can take 1 to 3 business days.
Step 4 : Advanced Security Configuration
Immediately activate two-factor authentication (2FA) via Google Authenticator or SMS. Configure a withdrawal address whitelist, set an anti-phishing code, and set up security notifications to strengthen your account protection.
Step 5 : Account Validation and Limits
Wait for your account to be validated by the Kraken team (usually 24-72h). Once approved, check your deposit and withdrawal limits according to your verification level. Fully verified accounts benefit from high limits suitable for professional trading.
Step 6 : First Deposit and Platform Discovery
Make your first deposit via free SEPA transfer or crypto deposit. Explore the classic interface for simple purchases, then discover Kraken Pro for advanced trading.
Prepare your documents in advance to accelerate the verification process. Kraken requires strict compliance, but this rigor guarantees a secure environment for all users. Use recent, high-quality documents to avoid rejections.
Explore the educational resources offered by Kraken to understand the specifics of crypto trading and available tools. This educational approach maximizes your chances of investment success.
Here’s how to buy crypto on the Kraken exchange in 6 steps.
Step 1 : Choose Your Purchase Method
Log in to your verified Kraken account and choose between instant purchase (simple interface with higher fees) or Kraken Pro (advanced trading with reduced fees). For beginners, instant purchase offers simplicity and speed, while Kraken Pro is suitable for experienced traders.
Step 2 : Fund Your Account
Deposit funds via free SEPA transfer (1-3 days), instant PayPal, or direct crypto deposit. SEPA transfers via ClearJunction cost only €0.90 for withdrawal, optimizing costs. Check deposit limits according to your verification level.
Step 3 : Select the Cryptocurrency
Choose from 200+ cryptocurrencies available : Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, or explore the altcoins selected by Kraken. Use the integrated analysis tools to evaluate trends and make informed decisions.
Step 4 : Configure the Purchase Order
On Kraken Pro, select the order type : market (immediate execution), limit (specific price), or stop-loss (protection). Enter the desired amount and check the fees applied according to your monthly trading volume.
Step 5 : Validation and Execution
Confirm your order details: quantity, unit price, total fees, and final amount. Execution is generally instantaneous for market orders, while limit orders wait for favorable market conditions.
Step 6 : Portfolio Management and Optimization
Track your positions via the Kraken dashboard or mobile app. Explore staking to generate passive income, set up price alerts, and use analysis tools to optimize your investment strategies.
Positive reviews about Kraken highlight the platform’s reliability and security, particularly appreciated by experienced traders and institutions. Users value Kraken Pro’s professional infrastructure, deep liquidity, and history without major hacking since 2011.
Recurring criticisms focus on the interface complexity for beginners, high fees for small volumes, and customer service issues with sometimes generic responses. The strict KYC requirement may also frustrate users accustomed to more flexible exchanges.
Nevertheless, Kraken’s responsiveness to criticism demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement. The platform systematically directs users to its dedicated support channels and maintains transparency about its regulatory compliance processes. This professional approach, while appreciated by institutions, may seem rigid to individual users seeking more flexibility.
Kraken remains a benchmark for investors who prioritize security and regulatory compliance. Its flawless track record since 2011 and institutional infrastructure position the platform as one of the most reliable in the crypto market.
Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that it is one of the most expensive exchanges on the market, with fees that are much higher than most of its competitors. In 2025, we believe that Kraken is particularly suitable for investors seeking security and professional tools, but certainly not for those who want to optimize their performance.
Not investment advice. Crypto trading involves risk of loss. Spot trading provided by Payward Europe Solutions Limited t/a Kraken, authorised by the Central Bank of Ireland. Staking is unregulated.
Geographic restrictions apply. Projected annual rate is an estimate based on the average staking rewards accrued over the past period, before commission, and is subject to change. Staking involves risks including no guarantee of rewards, potential loss from slashing or hacks, and depreciation in the value of assets while staked. Please refer to Kraken’s Terms of Service for additional information.
Caméléon de la rédaction et experte SEO, Maholy Ny Voary a découvert le monde des cryptomonnaies et du Web3 en 2021. Constamment à l’affût des nouveautés, elle continue de se former pour créer des contenus engageants qui aident véritablement les internautes.
Kraken is one of the most secure crypto exchanges in the world, regulated in the United States since 2011 with no major hacks. The platform uses cold storage, mandatory 2FA authentication, and undergoes regular security audits by independent firms.
Fees on Kraken Pro start at 0.25% maker / 0.40% taker and decrease based on trading volume, down to 0% maker / 0.10% taker. Kraken+ offers 0% fees on the first $10,000 of monthly volume, revolutionizing access to professional trading.
Identity verification (KYC) is mandatory on Kraken in compliance with U.S. regulations. This thorough process requires a government-issued ID and proof of address, ensuring both security and legal compliance for the platform.
Kraken supports over 200 carefully selected cryptocurrencies, prioritizing quality over quantity. The platform offers major cryptos (BTC, ETH, SOL, ADA) and 6 fiat currencies (EUR, USD, GBP, CAD, CHF, AUD) for optimized international access.
Kraken support is available 24/7 via ticket system on the platform and social media. The platform maintains a 97% response rate to negative reviews, usually within 24 hours, demonstrating its commitment to customer satisfaction.
DISCLAIMER
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as investment advice. Trading cryptocurrencies involves risks, and it is important not to invest more than you can afford to lose.
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Risk Warning : Trading financial instruments and/or cryptocurrencies carries a high level of risk, including the possibility of losing all or part of your investment. It may not be suitable for all investors. Cryptocurrency prices are highly volatile and can be influenced by external factors such as financial, regulatory, or political events. Margin trading increases financial risks.
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