Kraken, one of the longest-standing cryptocurrency exchanges in the United States, is intensifying its push into Europe with a strategic move to acquire Coin Meester BV (BCM), a Netherlands-based crypto broker. This acquisition underscores Kraken’s commitment to strengthening its presence in key European markets and aligning with the region’s evolving regulatory landscape.
The proposed acquisition aims to accelerate Kraken’s growth across Europe by integrating BCM’s established customer base and localized services. While the transaction is still subject to regulatory approval, it reflects a broader industry trend of consolidation and expansion in response to the European Union’s comprehensive Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework.
BCM Offers Access to Over 170 Cryptocurrencies
Founded in 2017, BCM has built a solid reputation as a user-friendly crypto brokerage platform in the Netherlands. The company enables individuals to buy, sell, and stake more than 170 different cryptocurrencies, providing seamless access through robust local funding methods such as iDEAL and bank transfers—payment options deeply embedded in Dutch digital culture.
BCM’s focus on simplicity and local integration makes it an attractive partner for Kraken, which seeks to enhance its onboarding experience for Dutch users. By leveraging BCM’s existing infrastructure, Kraken can offer faster deposits, improved customer support in Dutch, and a more intuitive interface tailored to regional preferences.
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David Ripley, CEO of Kraken, emphasized the strategic importance of the Dutch market:
"The Netherlands is one of the most advanced economies in the world, with a strong culture of innovation and high cryptocurrency adoption rates. It’s a key market for our European expansion plans. Acquiring BCM will allow Kraken to establish a significant foothold in the Netherlands while enabling BCM’s customers to benefit from a broader and more powerful product suite."
Although financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed, industry analysts view this acquisition as a long-term play to capture market share ahead of full MiCA compliance deadlines across EU member states.
Aligning with MiCA: A Strategic Push Across Europe
Kraken’s accelerated European strategy comes in direct response to the implementation of the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation—a landmark framework designed to standardize crypto oversight across member countries. MiCA provides clear licensing requirements for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), fostering greater investor protection and market stability.
With MiCA now shaping the operational playbook for crypto firms, exchanges like Kraken are positioning themselves as compliant, trustworthy platforms. Kraken has already secured VASP licenses in Ireland, Italy, and Spain, and is actively pursuing registration in additional European jurisdictions.
This regulatory-first approach not only ensures legal compliance but also builds consumer confidence—critical for mainstream adoption. As users increasingly prioritize security and legitimacy, regulated platforms gain a competitive edge over unlicensed alternatives.
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Expanding Into Derivatives: The Crypto Facilities Advantage
Beyond spot trading, Kraken has been aggressively expanding its derivatives offerings through its UK-based subsidiary, Crypto Facilities, which it acquired in 2019. Registered with the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Crypto Facilities holds a license to custody crypto assets and operates under a multilateral trading facility (MTF) framework.
Currently, the platform offers leveraged and cash-settled futures contracts on major assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum for institutional clients. According to recent reports, Crypto Facilities is in discussions with the FCA to expand its license scope—potentially allowing it to offer a wider range of futures products to retail investors.
Such an expansion could take between six to twelve months but would significantly enhance Kraken’s competitiveness in the European derivatives space, where demand for regulated crypto futures is rising.
Why This Acquisition Matters for European Users
For end users, especially in the Netherlands, this acquisition means access to a more sophisticated suite of tools—including advanced trading interfaces, staking rewards, yield opportunities, and enhanced security protocols—without sacrificing local payment convenience.
Moreover, Kraken’s global scale allows for tighter spreads, deeper liquidity, and improved execution speeds compared to smaller regional brokers. Over time, Dutch users can expect a phased integration into Kraken’s ecosystem while retaining familiar onboarding flows.
Key Benefits Post-Acquisition:
- Wider selection of tradable cryptocurrencies
- Access to staking and earning products
- Integration with Kraken’s institutional-grade security
- Continued support for local payment methods
- Future access to derivatives and structured products
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is MiCA and how does it affect Kraken?
A: MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) is the EU’s comprehensive regulatory framework for crypto assets. It standardizes licensing and consumer protections across member states. Kraken is proactively obtaining VASP licenses in multiple countries to ensure full compliance and build trust with European users.
Q: Will BCM customers lose access to local payment methods after the acquisition?
A: No. Kraken plans to maintain and even enhance local payment options like iDEAL, ensuring a smooth transition for Dutch users who rely on familiar banking integrations.
Q: Is Kraken planning to offer futures trading to retail users in Europe?
A: While currently limited to institutional clients via Crypto Facilities, Kraken is working with regulators to potentially expand futures offerings to retail investors in the future.
Q: When will the acquisition be completed?
A: The deal is pending regulatory approval. No official timeline has been announced, but updates are expected once all legal and compliance reviews are finalized.
Q: Does Kraken already operate in other European countries?
A: Yes. Kraken holds VASP licenses in Ireland, Italy, and Spain and serves customers across many EU nations. It continues to expand its compliance footprint ahead of MiCA deadlines.
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Final Thoughts: Building a Compliant Future in Europe
Kraken’s planned acquisition of BCM is more than just a market entry—it’s a strategic investment in long-term growth within one of the world’s most regulated yet innovative financial regions. By combining local expertise with global infrastructure, Kraken positions itself as a leader in compliant, user-centric crypto services across Europe.
As MiCA reshapes the landscape, companies that prioritize regulation, transparency, and customer experience will lead the next phase of adoption. With this move, Kraken signals its intent to be at the forefront—not just as an exchange, but as a trusted financial partner in the digital asset economy.
Whether you're a retail investor in Amsterdam or an institution monitoring regulatory trends, Kraken’s expansion reflects a broader shift toward maturity in the crypto industry—one where innovation meets accountability.