Kraken Publishes September 2025 Proof of Reserves Audit

Kraken has unveiled new perks for its VIP program members, adding private security sessions and a formal referral program to its existing benefits. **New VIP Benefits:** - Private security consultation sessions - Formal referral program for existing members - Continued access to exclusive experiences **Recent VIP Events:** The program has hosted members at premium events including the Australian Open, Super Bowl LIX, and a Michelin-star dinner in Amsterdam. The VIP tier offers dedicated relationship managers, early product access, and curated networking opportunities for select high-volume clients. [Learn more about Kraken VIP](http://blog.kraken.com/vip/behind-the-curtain)

Kraken hosted its 2026 Institutional Forum, marking a shift from anticipation to reality in institutional crypto adoption. **Key Topics Covered:** - Tokenization of traditional assets - Cryptocurrency derivatives markets - Volatility as an emerging asset class - The evolving landscape of institutional digital asset engagement The conference provided insights into how major financial institutions are now actively participating in crypto markets, moving beyond the years of speculation about their eventual entry. [Read the full conference recap](http://blog.kraken.com/event/institutional-forum-2026)

**FTX completes $10 billion repayment** The collapsed exchange has finalized its creditor repayments, marking a significant milestone in one of crypto's largest bankruptcy cases. **Bitcoin retirement products gain traction** Traditional retirement funds are increasingly adding Bitcoin exposure, building on momentum from spot ETF approvals that made crypto accessible to institutional investors. **Google issues quantum computing warning** A new development in quantum technology has raised concerns about potential vulnerabilities in cryptocurrency encryption systems, prompting discussions about future-proofing blockchain security.

Kraken has introduced a rewards program for select tokenized equities, offering up to 1% returns while users maintain their market exposure. **Key Features:** - Traditional equity holdings typically don't generate additional rewards - Select tokenized stocks now earn up to 1% rewards - Opt-in program available through Kraken's platform - Users maintain full market exposure to their chosen equities This builds on Kraken's existing tokenized equity offerings through xStocks, which already provides access to stocks, ETFs, and commodities like $GLDx and $NVDAx directly within the app. The program represents a shift in how digital equity holdings can function, adding a yield component to what are traditionally non-yielding assets. [Explore opt-in options on Kraken](https://app.kraken.com/JDNW/xstocks-oir-launch)

Kraken Financial has secured a **Federal Reserve master account**, marking a significant milestone as the first digital asset bank with direct access to the U.S. payments system. **Key Development:** - Direct connection to Federal Reserve payment rails - First crypto-native institution to achieve this status - Bridges digital assets with traditional financial infrastructure This follows the Federal Reserve's April 2025 withdrawal of restrictive crypto guidelines for banks, which opened the door for Bitcoin-based services like checking accounts and crypto-backed loans in traditional banking. The master account grants Kraken Financial the ability to settle transactions directly through the Federal Reserve, eliminating intermediary banks and potentially reducing costs and settlement times for customers. [Read the full announcement](https://blog.kraken.com/news/federal-reserve-master-account)