Kraken launches tokenised US stocks in EU as competition with Robinhood intensifies

Core Insights - Kraken has launched its tokenised stock trading product, xStocks, in the European Union, allowing access to over 60 US-listed stocks and ETFs for eligible clients [1][2] - The xStocks trading segment is rapidly growing, becoming the fastest-growing subsector within the $25 billion real-world asset niche in crypto [1] - The competition in the crypto space is intensifying, particularly with fintech firms like Robinhood also expanding their services in Europe [2][4] Company Developments - Kraken's global head of consumer, Mark Greenberg, stated that the launch of xStocks aims to simplify access to US markets by removing traditional barriers [2][4] - The company is expanding its tokenisation efforts, with initial support for Solana and plans to include Ethereum and BNB Chain [5] - Kraken has recently launched US-regulated crypto futures trading and commission-free trading for US equities, positioning itself against Robinhood [6] Strategic Moves - Kraken acquired Breakout, a proprietary trading platform, and previously purchased NinjaTrader for $1.5 billion, indicating a strategy to enhance its trading capabilities [7] - The expansion of xStocks and other services is part of Kraken's preparations for a potential public listing rumored for 2026 [7][8]