Kraken in Advanced Talks to Acquire NinjaTrader for $1.5 Billion
March 20, 2025 – According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, cryptocurrency exchange operator Kraken is negotiating to acquire the U.S.-based retail futures trading provider NinjaTrader. The deal, valued at approximately $1.5 billion, is said to be in its final stages and could be officially announced as soon as today.
Details of the Potential Acquisition
Sources close to the situation, cited by The Wall Street Journal, indicate that the agreement is imminent, potentially marking a significant step in Kraken’s expansion within the trading sector. This acquisition would provide Kraken with a U.S. Futures Commission Merchant (FCM) license, enabling the company to offer derivative products to retail traders in the United States.
The shift comes at a favorable time for cryptocurrency companies, as they are currently experiencing reduced regulatory scrutiny, particularly under the Trump administration. This change may pave the way for more acquisitions and expansions in the crypto sphere.
Expanding Horizons
The addition of NinjaTrader’s capabilities would not only strengthen Kraken’s offerings in the U.S. market but also enhance its international operations. Kraken has been actively pursuing licenses worldwide to provide various trading products, including Contracts for Difference (CFDs), to retail traders across the globe. The potential acquisition of NinjaTrader could serve as a foundational move for Kraken as it seeks to broaden its reach and services in different markets.
Next Steps
As the situation continues to unfold, the industry will be watching closely. Should the deal come to fruition, it could reshape the competitive landscape of online trading, marking not just a significant investment by Kraken but also an important strategic move within the cryptocurrency and futures trading sectors.
Stay tuned for updates as we follow this developing story.
Gerald Segal is a seasoned writer focused on the online trading industry. He is the founder of Forex industry B2B news website LeapRate.com and previously worked as an investment banker for over a decade. Gerald holds an MBA from Columbia University and a BCOM from the University of Toronto.