Kraken in Talks to Buy Deribit as U.S. Agencies Demand User Data
The post Kraken in Talks to Buy Deribit as U.S. Agencies Demand User Data appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
San Francisco-based crypto exchange Kraken is making headlines again, but this time for two major reasons. While the company is constantly in talks with Deribit over its acquisition. At the same time, it is facing growing pressure from U.S. regulators, including the FBI and SEC, to share client data.
Kraken Still Negotiating to Buy Deribit
Deribit, a major crypto options exchange, is still in discussions with Kraken regarding a potential acquisition. Despite reports suggesting Kraken had backed out, sources confirm the negotiations are still ongoing.
As per the sources, Deribit Exhcangs is valued between $4 billion and $5 billion, and remains a key player in the options market, making it an attractive target for expansion.
If Kraken successfully acquires Deribit, it could strengthen its position in the crypto derivatives market, giving it an edge over rivals.
Coinbase Joins the Acquisition Deal
Kraken is not the exchange interested in Deribit. Coinbase has also shown interest in acquiring the platform, adding more competition to the deal. However, Deribit’s CEO has clarified that the company is still evaluating multiple takeover bids, keeping its options open.
U.S. Regulators Demand Kraken’s User Data
While Kraken is in acquisition talks, it is also dealing with pressure from U.S. regulators. The FBI and SEC are among several agencies requesting client data from Kraken in 2024.
However, a transparency report revealed that Kraken received 6,826 data requests from global authorities, with 57% of them coming from U.S. regulators.
The SEC, which previously sued Kraken for allegedly operating an unregistered exchange, accounted for 37% of the U.S. requests. Other agencies, including the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the Office of Foreign Assets Control, have also demanded information from Kraken.
Kraken’s Growth Despite Challenges
Despite regulatory challenges, Kraken’s business remains strong. The exchange reported $1.5 billion in revenue in 2024, marking a 128% increase from the previous year.
While it faces hurdles in the US, Kraken’s expansion efforts, including a potential Deribit acquisition, could shape its future in the crypto industry.
