Kraken Resumes Staking Services in U.S. After SEC Settlement
Crypto exchange relaunches staking with enhanced security and compliance.

Cryptocurrency exchange Kraken has restarted its staking services across 39 U.S. states, marking a return after nearly two years following a settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The revamped platform now supports staking for 17 different cryptocurrencies, including Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Polkadot (DOT), and Cardano (ADA), while implementing added security measures to ensure compliance.
Kraken’s initial staking suspension stemmed from a February 2023 SEC settlement, in which the exchange agreed to pay a $30 million fine over allegations of offering unregistered securities through its previous staking program. The updated staking service now operates under a model designed to adhere to U.S. regulations while still allowing users to earn rewards on their holdings.
Mark Greenberg, Kraken’s Global Head of Consumer, highlighted the significance of the relaunch.
“Launching this new staking product in the U.S. is an overwhelmingly positive development, not just for Kraken but also for the entire U.S. crypto space,” he stated.
One of the most notable changes in the new staking service is the introduction of third-party slashing insurance, which protects users from potential losses due to network penalties. This added layer of security aims to reassure customers who may have been hesitant following the regulatory scrutiny that led to Kraken’s initial service suspension.
Staking allows users to participate in blockchain network validation by delegating their assets to validators. In return, they receive staking rewards, minus any applicable fees. Kraken’s bonded staking model requires participants to lock their cryptocurrencies for set periods, aligning with each blockchain’s specific validation requirements.
The company also announced plans to expand its staking services to additional U.S. states as regulatory conditions permit. The relaunch affects 37 states and two territories, with Kraken working closely with authorities to ensure full compliance.
Beyond staking, Kraken has also broadened its trading options by listing three new tokens: PENGU, SIGMA, and ME. These additions demonstrate the exchange’s commitment to providing a diverse and evolving trading experience for its users.
While U.S. users are only now regaining access to staking services, Kraken’s global platform has continued to offer these services uninterrupted. The new U.S. framework, however, features enhanced security, risk disclosure, and transparent fee structures.
As the crypto industry faces increasing regulatory scrutiny, Kraken’s return to the U.S. staking market signals a strategic adaptation to compliance requirements. The exchange remains committed to bridging the gap between traditional finance and digital assets, ensuring users can engage with staking safely and legally.
Kraken’s latest staking update also includes the integration of restaking capabilities in eligible states, allowing users to further optimize their cryptocurrency earnings. With staking now back on the platform, Kraken aims to reinforce its position as a leader in the crypto exchange landscape.
photo source / Blockonome
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