Kraken launched crypto perpetual futures trading for US clients on Kraken Pro this week. The product, already common on offshore exchanges, now allows American users to take leveraged positions on digital assets without an expiration date. It's the first time Kraken offers perpetuals directly to its domestic customer base through its advanced trading interface.
What perpetual futures are
Unlike traditional futures, perpetuals never settle. Traders can hold positions as long as they maintain margin. A funding rate periodically shifts between longs and shorts to keep the contract price near the spot market. They’re a favorite among active traders for their flexibility and leverage.
Kraken Pro
Kraken Pro is the exchange’s full-featured platform for experienced traders. It offers order books, real-time charting, and lower fees than the standard Kraken interface. Adding perpetuals gives US users a tool they’ve had to go elsewhere for — or trade via non-US entities. The move tightens Kraken’s product suite for its home market.
The perpetual contracts are available immediately to eligible US clients on Kraken Pro. Kraken hasn’t disclosed the full list of trading pairs or maximum leverage, but the launch marks a clear entry into a product space long requested by American retail traders.
