Kraken Prop Trading Adds S&P 500 Perpetual Contracts

Major U.S. cryptocurrency exchange Kraken has integrated S&P 500 perpetual contracts into its proprietary trading program. This move grants eligible traders around-the-clock access to trade the premier benchmark of the U.S. stock market.

Key Product Features

The perpetual contract tracks the S&P 500 index price, sourced via a decentralized oracle for real-time data. Unlike traditional futures, it has no expiration date, eliminating the need for rollover procedures and associated costs.

  • Trading Hours: Available 24/7.
  • Leverage: Offers up to 5x leverage.
  • Exposure Limit: Maximum nominal exposure capped at $1 million per account.

Platform Strategy and Access Path

The S&P 500 is the second traditional market product launched on Kraken's prop trading platform, following the Nasdaq 100 index. The platform has indicated plans to expand into commodities and other asset classes in the future.

To trade this market, users must first pass an evaluation program. This program starts at a $20 fee. Traders who meet specific profit targets and risk management rules during the evaluation phase qualify for a funded account, with capital ranging from $5,000 to $200,000 provided by Kraken for live trading.

Both evaluation accounts and funded accounts can access the S&P 500 perpetuals, offering flexibility for traders at different stages.