Kraken Adds Web3 Token Platform Magna in Strategic Deal
Kraken is expanding far beyond its roots as a crypto exchange. On February 18, 2026, its parent company, Payward, confirmed the acquisition of Magna, a fast-growing Web3 token management and vesting platform often described as “Carta for Web3.”
Key Takeaways
- Kraken acquired Magna to expand into token lifecycle services.
- Magna will remain independent but integrate its vesting and distribution tools into Kraken’s platform.
- The deal is part of Kraken’s aggressive acquisition push ahead of a potential IPO.
The deal signals Kraken’s ambition to build a full-service digital asset infrastructure stack – one that stretches from early-stage token fundraising and distribution all the way to exchange liquidity and secondary market trading. Financial terms were not disclosed, though Magna was last valued at $70 million in a prior funding round.
Magna will continue operating under its own brand while integrating its technology into Kraken’s broader institutional offering.
Building a Token Lifecycle Engine
Magna specializes in the behind-the-scenes mechanics of token operations. Its tools help crypto-native teams manage vesting schedules, automate token distributions and airdrops, handle multi-signature approvals, and maintain on-chain cap tables. The platform also includes compliance features such as tax withholding support.
Founded in 2021 and emerging from the Y Combinator W22 cohort, Magna has grown quickly. It now serves more than 160 clients, including major blockchain projects such as Optimism, Aptos, and Wormhole.
In 2025, the platform reported a peak total value locked of $60 billion, underscoring its growing role in managing large-scale token ecosystems.
By integrating Magna’s infrastructure, Kraken aims to provide what it describes as an “operational layer” for digital assets – connecting token issuance and early allocations directly to exchange trading and liquidity services.
READ MORE:
Bitcoin vs Gold 2025-2026 Outlook: Can BTC Reclaim Dominance After Gold’s Historic Rally?
Sixth Deal in One Year
The Magna acquisition is Kraken’s sixth purchase in the past 12 months, reflecting an aggressive expansion strategy as the company prepares for a potential public listing.
Recent acquisitions include:
- NinjaTrader, acquired for $1.5 billion
- Small Exchange, purchased for $100 million
- Breakout
- Backed Finance
Kraken was last valued at $20 billion following an $800 million funding round in November 2025.
Positioning for Institutional Growth
The move highlights a broader shift in the crypto industry. Exchanges are no longer competing solely on trading fees and liquidity. Instead, they are racing to build vertically integrated ecosystems that support token creation, compliance, treasury management, derivatives, and institutional access.
By bringing Magna into its ecosystem while preserving its standalone operations, Kraken is effectively positioning itself as infrastructure for the entire digital asset lifecycle – from cap table to secondary market.
If the strategy succeeds, Kraken could evolve from a trading venue into a foundational operating system for crypto-native companies.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Coindoo.com does not endorse or recommend any specific investment strategy or cryptocurrency. Always conduct your own research and consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
Alexander Zdravkov is a person who always looks for the logic behind things. He has more than 3 years of experience in the crypto space, where he skillfully identifies new trends in the world of digital currencies. Whether providing in-depth analysis or daily reports on all topics, his deep understanding and enthusiasm for what he does make him a valuable member of the team.
