Crypto exchange Kraken announced on July 24, 2025, that it will integrate the Ink Layer 2 (L2) protocol and its native INK token into its core trading platform, developed by the Ink Foundation. The move is part of Kraken’s strategy to enable onchain use cases, and it will be accompanied by an airdrop of INK tokens to eligible users through the exchange's “Drops” program.
Technical Details of the Integration
The Ink L2 protocol is described as a high-throughput, low-finality environment compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), tailored for trading and payment infrastructure. Kraken co-CEO Arjun Sethi stated the goal is to embed “production grade onchain systems” across the platform, allowing users to access decentralized finance (DeFi) functionality directly within Kraken. The INK token, issued by a subsidiary of the Ink Foundation, will serve governance, gas fee, and ecosystem utility purposes within the Ink L2 network.
Airdrop Details and Eligibility
Eligible active Kraken clients and ecosystem participants will receive INK tokens via the “Drops” airdrop program. Specific eligibility criteria and distribution amounts have not been disclosed; the exchange plans to share more information as milestones are reached. This airdrop is seen as a key user acquisition tactic to bootstrap the new L2 ecosystem.
Competition and Industry Context
Ink L2 enters a competitive landscape where other centralized exchange (CEX)-backed L2s, such as Coinbase’s Base, have already gained significant traction. The Ink Foundation Board described the partnership as a “pivotal moment,” emphasizing that Kraken’s integration helps bridge centralized finance (CeFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi), moving toward unified capital markets accessible to anyone. Analysts believe Kraken aims to leverage its large user base to quickly drive liquidity, while offering users lower-cost and higher-speed onchain experiences.
Future Outlook
Further details on the rollout schedule and airdrop mechanics will be released incrementally. Kraken reaffirmed its commitment to supporting innovative onchain applications and looks forward to building an open financial system with the Ink community.