United States-based Kraken Expands into European Market with Coin Meester Acquisition
Kraken, a cryptocurrency exchange based in the United States, has announced its plans to acquire Coin Meester B.V. (BCM), a cryptocurrency exchange based in the Netherlands. This move signifies Kraken’s strong expansion into the European market. The announcement comes shortly after the European Union introduced its regulatory framework for crypto assets, providing a legal structure for crypto businesses across member states.
Kraken’s Focus on the Netherlands
Kraken has already obtained virtual asset service provider licenses to operate in Ireland, Italy, and Spain. Now, the company is targeting the Netherlands, known for its robust economy and high adoption of cryptocurrencies. David Ripley, CEO of Kraken, highlighted the innovative culture and economic strength of the Netherlands as key reasons for acquiring BCM. The acquisition is expected to strengthen Kraken’s position in the Dutch market and enhance BCM’s product offerings.
Optimism from BCM’s CEO
Mitchell Zandwijken, co-founder and CEO of BCM, expressed optimism about the future under Kraken’s leadership. He praised Kraken’s pioneering status and decade-long track record in the cryptocurrency industry. BCM, previously known as Bitcoin Meester, offers a platform for cryptocurrency trading and staking services, providing access to over 170 cryptocurrencies. As a registered Dutch cryptocurrency service provider with De Nederlandsche Bank, BCM prioritizes regulatory compliance.
Regulatory Approval Required
The financial details of the acquisition have not been disclosed. However, both companies have made it clear that the deal is subject to regulatory approval from the Dutch central bank. This move by Kraken comes at a time of significant activity in the cryptocurrency market, with the exchange recently experiencing a substantial influx of 14,924 Bitcoin, the largest since 2018.
Hot Take: Kraken Expands its European Presence with Coin Meester Acquisition
Kraken’s acquisition of Coin Meester B.V. demonstrates its commitment to expanding into the European market, particularly the Netherlands. By leveraging BCM’s platform and regulatory compliance, Kraken aims to strengthen its position in the Dutch market and provide enhanced product offerings to existing BCM clients. As the cryptocurrency industry continues to evolve, Kraken’s strategic move positions it for growth and success in Europe.