Kraken Plans Launch of Ink: Fast, Interoperable Layer-2 for DeFi

Kraken has introduced Ink, a cutting-edge Ethereum layer-2 blockchain powered by the OP Stack from Optimism. Aimed at both veteran digital asset traders and those new to crypto, Ink is set to launch in testnet this November, providing on-chain wealth management solutions. By integrating into Optimism's Superchain, a network comprising nearly 30 layer-2 chains such as Base, Zora, and World Chain, Ink aims to foster a collaborative ecosystem for decentralized finance (DeFi) applications.

Ink's inclusion in the Superchain will enable seamless interoperability between different networks, counteracting the layer-2 fragmentation issue and broadening its user base. Andrew Koller, founder of Ink, highlighted that the platform’s design will attract developers and establish it as the go-to platform for next-gen DeFi protocols.

Ink, which is expected to fully launch on the Ethereum mainnet in early 2025, will offer one-second block times to handle time-sensitive transactions. This will pave the way for activities like perpetual futures trading, decentralized lending, and yield farming. Kraken’s initiative mirrors Coinbase’s success with its own OP Stack-based layer-2, Base, further solidifying Kraken's role in the DeFi landscape.