Crypto Giant Kraken to Acquire NinjaTrader in $1.5B Deal, Expanding Into U.S. Futures

Under President Biden, many major institutions struggled with strict SEC regulations. But with a new SEC chair in place and Trump supporting crypto, things are changing. Cases are being dropped, rules are becoming friendlier, and the industry is finally seeing a clearer path forward.

According to the Wall Street Journal, top crypto exchange Kraken is close to finalizing a $1.5 billion acquisition of NinjaTrader, a U.S.-based futures trading platform. Sources say the deal could be announced as early as Thursday. If completed, this move will allow Kraken to expand into the U.S. futures and derivatives market while helping NinjaTrader grow internationally.

The deal could reshape trading by bringing crypto and traditional futures markets closer together.

Why This Deal Matters for Kraken

Founded in 2011, Kraken is already a major player in crypto, offering trading for assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. By acquiring NinjaTrader, Kraken will gain access to its 1.9 million active users, strengthening its position in the futures market.

More importantly, NinjaTrader is a registered Futures Commission Merchant. This means Kraken will now be able to legally offer crypto futures and derivatives in the U.S. The deal is part of Kraken’s larger plan to expand beyond crypto trading into other areas like equities and payments.

How NinjaTrader Benefits?

NinjaTrader, founded in 2003, provides futures trading tools to over 1.8 million customers. Under Kraken, it will have more resources and access to a global market. Kraken reportedly plans to expand NinjaTrader into the U.K., Europe, and Australia, helping it reach more traders and increase its influence. While it will become part of Kraken’s trading ecosystem, NinjaTrader is expected to continue operating as a separate platform.

Changing Regulations Benefit Kraken

This acquisition comes as crypto regulations in the U.S. shift under Trump’s leadership. With expectations of lighter rules, Kraken has already benefited—the SEC recently dropped a lawsuit against the exchange.

The NinjaTrader deal could be one of the biggest in the crypto industry, signaling that major firms are expanding beyond digital assets and into traditional finance.

Kraken has been growing fast. In 2024, its revenue doubled to $1.5 billion, with adjusted earnings reaching $380 million. If this deal goes through, it will further cement Kraken’s status as a leader in both crypto and futures trading, making markets more connected and accessible for investors worldwide.