What order types does Kraken contracts support? How to choose between limit orders and market orders?

Kraken Contracts supports limit, market, stop, and take profit orders, each serving unique trading purposes on the platform.

Apr 27, 2025 at 10:07 pm

Kraken, a well-known cryptocurrency exchange, offers a variety of order types through its futures and options contracts platform, known as Kraken Contracts. Understanding these order types is crucial for traders looking to execute their strategies effectively. In this article, we will explore the different order types supported by Kraken Contracts and provide guidance on how to choose between limit orders and market orders.

Overview of Kraken Contracts

Kraken Contracts is a derivatives trading platform that allows users to trade futures and options on various cryptocurrencies. The platform supports multiple order types to cater to different trading strategies and risk management needs. Kraken Contracts supports limit orders, market orders, stop orders, and take profit orders, each serving a unique purpose in the trading ecosystem.

Limit Orders on Kraken Contracts

A limit order is an order to buy or sell a contract at a specified price or better. When you place a limit order, you set the maximum price you are willing to pay as a buyer or the minimum price you are willing to accept as a seller. Limit orders are useful for traders who want to have more control over the price at which their orders are executed.

• To place a limit order on Kraken Contracts, follow these steps:
  • Log in to your Kraken account and navigate to the Kraken Contracts section.
  • Select the futures or options contract you wish to trade.
  • Click on the "Buy" or "Sell" button, depending on your intended action.
  • Choose "Limit" as the order type.
  • Enter the quantity of contracts you want to trade.
  • Set the limit price at which you want the order to be executed.
  • Review your order details and click "Place Order" to submit it.

Limit orders are beneficial when you have a specific price target in mind and are willing to wait for the market to reach that price. However, there is a risk that your order may not be filled if the market does not reach your specified price.

Market Orders on Kraken Contracts

A market order is an order to buy or sell a contract at the best available price in the market. When you place a market order, you prioritize speed of execution over price control. Market orders are suitable for traders who want to enter or exit a position quickly, without waiting for a specific price.

• To place a market order on Kraken Contracts, follow these steps:
  • Log in to your Kraken account and navigate to the Kraken Contracts section.
  • Select the futures or options contract you wish to trade.
  • Click on the "Buy" or "Sell" button, depending on your intended action.
  • Choose "Market" as the order type.
  • Enter the quantity of contracts you want to trade.
  • Review your order details and click "Place Order" to submit it.

Market orders are executed almost instantly, but the execution price may differ from the last traded price due to market volatility. This can result in slippage, where the actual execution price is less favorable than expected.

Stop Orders on Kraken Contracts

A stop order, also known as a stop-loss order, is an order to buy or sell a contract once it reaches a specified price, known as the stop price. Stop orders are used to limit losses or protect profits by automatically triggering a market order when the stop price is reached.

• To place a stop order on Kraken Contracts, follow these steps:
  • Log in to your Kraken account and navigate to the Kraken Contracts section.
  • Select the futures or options contract you wish to trade.
  • Click on the "Buy" or "Sell" button, depending on your intended action.
  • Choose "Stop" as the order type.
  • Enter the quantity of contracts you want to trade.
  • Set the stop price at which you want the order to be triggered.
  • Review your order details and click "Place Order" to submit it.

Stop orders are useful for risk management, as they can help limit potential losses in a volatile market. However, they do not guarantee execution at the stop price, as the market may gap through the stop price, resulting in a less favorable execution price.

Take Profit Orders on Kraken Contracts

A take profit order is an order to buy or sell a contract once it reaches a specified price, known as the take profit price. Take profit orders are used to lock in profits by automatically triggering a market order when the take profit price is reached.

• To place a take profit order on Kraken Contracts, follow these steps:
  • Log in to your Kraken account and navigate to the Kraken Contracts section.
  • Select the futures or options contract you wish to trade.
  • Click on the "Buy" or "Sell" button, depending on your intended action.
  • Choose "Take Profit" as the order type.
  • Enter the quantity of contracts you want to trade.
  • Set the take profit price at which you want the order to be triggered.
  • Review your order details and click "Place Order" to submit it.

Take profit orders are beneficial for traders who want to secure profits without constantly monitoring the market. Similar to stop orders, take profit orders do not guarantee execution at the specified price, as market conditions can change rapidly.

Choosing Between Limit Orders and Market Orders

When deciding between limit orders and market orders on Kraken Contracts, consider the following factors:

• Price Control: If you have a specific price target in mind and are willing to wait for the market to reach that price, a limit order is the better choice. Limit orders give you more control over the execution price but may not be filled if the market does not reach your specified price.

• Speed of Execution: If you prioritize entering or exiting a position quickly, a market order is more suitable. Market orders are executed almost instantly but may result in slippage due to market volatility.

• Market Volatility: In highly volatile markets, the difference between the last traded price and the execution price of a market order can be significant. If you are concerned about slippage, a limit order may be a better option, as it allows you to set a maximum or minimum price for execution.

• Trading Strategy: Your choice of order type should align with your overall trading strategy. If you are a day trader looking to capitalize on short-term price movements, market orders may be more appropriate. If you are a swing trader or long-term investor, limit orders can help you enter or exit positions at more favorable prices.

• Risk Tolerance: Consider your risk tolerance when choosing between limit and market orders. Limit orders carry the risk of not being filled, while market orders carry the risk of slippage. Assess your comfort level with these risks and choose the order type that best suits your risk profile.

In conclusion, Kraken Contracts supports a variety of order types, including limit orders, market orders, stop orders, and take profit orders. When choosing between limit orders and market orders, consider factors such as price control, speed of execution, market volatility, trading strategy, and risk tolerance. By understanding the characteristics and risks associated with each order type, you can make informed decisions that align with your trading goals and risk management needs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I modify or cancel an order after it has been placed on Kraken Contracts?
   Yes, you can modify or cancel an order on Kraken Contracts as long as it has not been fully executed. To do so, navigate to the "Open Orders" section, find the order you wish to modify or cancel, and click on the corresponding action button.

2. What is the difference between a stop order and a take profit order on Kraken Contracts?
   A stop order is used to limit losses or protect profits by triggering a market order when the market reaches a specified stop price. A take profit order, on the other hand, is used to lock in profits by triggering a market order when the market reaches a specified take profit price.

3. Are there any fees associated with placing orders on Kraken Contracts?
   Yes, Kraken Contracts charges fees for trading futures and options contracts. The fee structure may vary depending on the type of contract and your trading volume. It is recommended to review Kraken's fee schedule before placing orders.

4. Can I use leverage when trading on Kraken Contracts?
   Yes, Kraken Contracts allows traders to use leverage when trading futures and options contracts. The amount of leverage available may vary depending on the specific contract and your account status. Be aware that using leverage can amplify both potential gains and losses, so it should be used cautiously.