Kraken's Preparation for IPO and Fundraising Plans: Continued Growth in the Crypto Realm

Kraken is currently strategizing a final funding round in preparation for its anticipated Initial Public Offering (IPO). Recent reports from Bloomberg have unveiled the exchange's objective to raise $100 million in the upcoming funding round. This decision comes at a time of soaring crypto prices, with Bitcoin (BTC) surpassing all-time highs of $73,000.

The surge in investor interest amidst the ongoing crypto market boom has prompted discussions regarding a pre-IPO funding round for Kraken.

Kraken's IPO Aspirations and Regulatory Obstacles

Kraken had previously contemplated going public and has been mulling over an IPO since 2021. However, the exchange encountered setbacks due to past crypto price fluctuations and regulatory complexities.

The SEC's regulatory challenges related to Kraken's staking feature, coupled with increased scrutiny post the FTX collapse, posed challenges for Kraken. In February 2023, the exchange settled with the regulator for $30 million. Subsequently, Kraken faced allegations akin to Binance and Coinbase for providing unregistered securities.

Kraken's Anticipated Fundraising Endeavors

Kraken is seeking to onboard a notable company to ensure a successful IPO, potentially as early as the following year. Forecasts indicate that the exchange could generate revenue ranging from $1 billion to $2 billion this year. Insider information suggests that Kraken is likely to pursue fundraising by the year's end to conclude the pre-IPO round before progressing with the public offering.

In April, Kraken disclosed its expansion in regulatory licensing within the United States through the acquisition of TradeStation Crypto, TradeStation Group's digital assets division.

The Promising Crypto Landscape

The rekindled interest in Kraken's prospective IPO comes amidst the upward trajectory of crypto prices and perceivable shifts in the regulatory realm. Noteworthy is the increasingly favorable political environment towards cryptocurrencies.

The upsurge in investor attraction towards the exchange indicates a growing acceptance of the crypto sector. Data sourced from The Block reflects investments exceeding $5.6 billion in crypto companies since the commencement of this year.