Kraken Algorithmic Order Guide: Analysis of Iceberg Entrustment and TWAP Strategy

Kraken's algorithmic orders like Iceberg Entrustment and TWAP strategy help traders execute large orders efficiently, minimizing market impact and maintaining price stability.

Jun 12, 2025 at 02:49 am

Kraken Algorithmic Order Guide: Analysis of Iceberg Entrustment and TWAP Strategy

Kraken, one of the leading cryptocurrency exchanges, offers a range of advanced trading features to its users, including algorithmic orders. These tools are designed to help traders execute large orders more efficiently and with minimal market impact. In this guide, we will delve into two specific algorithmic order types offered by Kraken: Iceberg Entrustment and Time-Weighted Average Price (TWAP) strategy. Understanding these can significantly enhance your trading strategies on the platform.

Understanding Algorithmic Orders on Kraken

Algorithmic orders are automated trading instructions that execute a series of trades based on predefined rules. They are particularly useful for institutional traders and those dealing with large volumes, as they help in managing the market impact of their trades. Kraken's platform supports several types of algorithmic orders, but we will focus on Iceberg Entrustment and TWAP strategy in this guide.

Iceberg Entrustment: Concept and Mechanics

Iceberg Entrustment is a type of order where only a small portion of the total order quantity is visible to the market at any given time. The rest of the order remains hidden, much like an iceberg where only a small part is visible above the water. This strategy is used to buy or sell large quantities of cryptocurrency without causing significant price movements.

To use Iceberg Entrustment on Kraken, follow these steps:

• Log into your Kraken account and navigate to the trading interface.
• Select the cryptocurrency pair you wish to trade.
• Click on the "Advanced" tab and choose "Iceberg" from the order type options.
• Enter the total order quantity you want to execute.
• Set the visible quantity, which is the portion of your order that will be displayed to other market participants.
• Set the order price or opt for a market order if you want the exchange to determine the price.
• Submit the order and monitor its execution through the Kraken trading interface.

The key benefit of using Iceberg Entrustment is that it helps in maintaining price stability by not revealing the full order size to the market. However, traders need to be aware that other market participants might still infer the presence of an iceberg order if they observe consistent partial fills of the visible quantity.

TWAP Strategy: Concept and Mechanics

Time-Weighted Average Price (TWAP) strategy is another algorithmic order type that aims to execute a large order over a specified period at the average market price. This strategy helps in minimizing the market impact by spreading the order execution across multiple smaller trades.

To set up a TWAP order on Kraken, follow these steps:

• Log into your Kraken account and navigate to the trading interface.
• Select the cryptocurrency pair you wish to trade.
• Click on the "Advanced" tab and choose "TWAP" from the order type options.
• Enter the total order quantity you want to execute.
• Set the duration over which you want the order to be executed.
• Set the order price or opt for a market order if you want the exchange to determine the price.
• Submit the order and monitor its execution through the Kraken trading interface.

TWAP strategy is particularly useful for traders who want to execute large orders without causing significant price fluctuations. By spreading the order over time, the strategy aims to achieve a price that closely matches the average market price during the execution period.

Comparing Iceberg Entrustment and TWAP Strategy

Both Iceberg Entrustment and TWAP strategy are designed to help traders execute large orders with minimal market impact, but they operate differently. Iceberg Entrustment focuses on hiding the total order size, while TWAP strategy focuses on spreading the order execution over time. The choice between the two depends on the trader's specific needs and market conditions.

For instance, if a trader is concerned about other market participants reacting to the full order size, Iceberg Entrustment might be the better choice. On the other hand, if the trader wants to ensure that the order is executed at an average market price over a specific period, TWAP strategy would be more suitable.

Practical Applications and Considerations

When using algorithmic orders like Iceberg Entrustment and TWAP strategy on Kraken, traders need to consider several factors. Market liquidity is crucial, as both strategies require sufficient trading volume to execute the order effectively. Order size and execution speed are also important considerations, as they can impact the overall effectiveness of the strategy.

Additionally, traders should be aware of slippage, which is the difference between the expected price of a trade and the price at which the trade is executed. Both Iceberg Entrustment and TWAP strategy aim to minimize slippage, but it can still occur, especially in volatile markets.

Monitoring and Adjusting Algorithmic Orders

Once an algorithmic order is placed, it's important for traders to monitor its execution closely. Kraken provides real-time data and order status updates, which can help traders track the progress of their orders. If necessary, traders can adjust or cancel their orders based on market conditions and their trading strategy.

To monitor and adjust an algorithmic order on Kraken, follow these steps:

• Navigate to the "Orders" section in your Kraken account.
• Find the specific algorithmic order you want to monitor.
• Review the order status and the executed quantity to date.
• If adjustments are needed, click on the order and select "Modify" or "Cancel" as appropriate.
• Make the necessary changes and submit the updated order or confirm the cancellation.

By actively monitoring and adjusting their algorithmic orders, traders can optimize their trading strategies and respond to changing market conditions effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use Iceberg Entrustment and TWAP strategy simultaneously on Kraken?

A1: Yes, Kraken allows traders to use multiple algorithmic order types simultaneously. However, it's important to manage and monitor these orders carefully to avoid conflicting strategies and potential market impact.

Q2: Are there any fees associated with using algorithmic orders on Kraken?

A2: Kraken does not charge additional fees for using algorithmic orders. However, standard trading fees apply based on the trader's account tier and the cryptocurrency pair being traded.

Q3: How does Kraken handle partial fills for Iceberg Entrustment orders?

A3: For Iceberg Entrustment orders, Kraken automatically replenishes the visible quantity once the displayed portion is filled, until the entire order is executed. This process helps in maintaining the order's effectiveness without revealing the full order size.

Q4: Can I set specific time intervals for TWAP orders on Kraken?

A4: Kraken allows traders to set the overall duration for TWAP orders, but specific time intervals within that duration are automatically determined by the platform to achieve the average market price.