Kraken Launches CFTC-Regulated Perpetual Futures for US Traders

Kraken has announced that it will offer CFTC-regulated perpetual futures to eligible US traders. This move marks a significant shift in the market, as perpetual futures have traditionally been available only through offshore platforms.

The product will be offered through Kraken Derivatives US and Bitnomial Exchange, both of which are registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Perpetual futures allow traders to take leveraged long or short positions without constantly rolling contracts, making them a popular choice for crypto traders.

The move is significant because it gives US traders access to a regulated derivatives product that is similar to the offshore perpetuals market. However, regulators have imposed restrictions on these products to ensure they operate within a framework of customer protections and compliance obligations.