Kraken Acquires BackedFi to Accelerate Tokenized Stock Trading

A breakdown of how DeFi lending yields actually work, without token subsidies or hidden mechanisms. **How the system operates:** - Rewards generated from actual borrower demand across protocols including Aave, Morpho, Tydro, and Sky Ecosystem - Infrastructure powered by Veda, with risk management by Chaos and Sentora teams - Withdrawals typically process instantly, though temporary delays may occur during low vault liquidity periods **Key distinction:** The model relies entirely on real, onchain rewards from lending activity - no artificial token incentives or complex hidden steps involved. This represents a more sustainable approach to DeFi yields compared to subsidy-dependent models. For context, slvlUSD yield specifically derives from lending market performance through Aave and Morpho, with returns flowing to Level protocol stakers.

Kraken has introduced **DeFi Earn**, a new feature that simplifies access to decentralized finance yields directly within its app. **Key Features:** - Earn up to **8% APY** on deposited assets - Three vault options: Balanced, High, and Advanced - Automated reward distribution - No seed phrases or manual transaction signatures required **How It Works:** - Users deposit assets into the Kraken app - Select a vault strategy based on risk preference - Rewards accumulate automatically The platform is powered by partnerships with Veda Labs, Sentora, and Chaos Labs. Privy provides embedded wallet infrastructure that handles on-chain operations behind the scenes, removing technical barriers typically associated with DeFi protocols. [Learn more about DeFi Earn](https://app.kraken.com/JDNW/defiearn)

Kraken has listed HSK for trading on its platform as of January 26, 2026. **Recent Listings:** - HSK (January 26) - SPACE (January 23) - BDX (January 22) - SKR (January 21) - GWEI (January 21) - FUN (January 15) **Network Update:** Kraken now supports USDC deposits and withdrawals on the Algorand network, expanding cross-chain functionality for stablecoin users. The exchange continues its pattern of regular token additions, providing traders with access to emerging digital assets. [Read full announcement](https://blog.kraken.com/product/asset-listings/hsk-is-available-for-trading)

**$PONKE** token is running a unique competition on Kraken exchange where the most active traders can win placement on **Atlético Madrid's** (@Atleti) official jersey. **How it works:** - Trade $PONKE tokens on Kraken - Highest trading volume wins - Winner gets their token featured on the football club's shirt This follows a previous campaign where $PONKE aimed for F1 car sponsorship through similar trading mechanics. [Participate in the contest](https://app.kraken.com/JDNW/PONKEAsset)

Kraken has officially listed $HSK, the native token of HSKChain, a public blockchain focused on finance and real-world asset (RWA) tokenization. **Key Details:** - $HSK is now available for trading on [Kraken's platform](https://app.kraken.com/JDNW/HSK) - HSKChain positions itself as a blockchain infrastructure for financial applications and RWA assets - The platform emphasizes security, performance, and cost-efficiency - Geographic restrictions may apply to certain users The listing follows Kraken's recent addition of HSK to its roadmap earlier in the week. Users can now access HSK trading through their Kraken accounts, subject to regional availability.