How to short crypto on Kraken?

Jul 08, 2025 at 09:29 pm

Understanding Shorting in the Cryptocurrency Market

Shorting crypto, also known as short selling, involves borrowing an asset and selling it at the current market price with the hope of buying it back later at a lower price to return it, profiting from the difference. In the cryptocurrency market, this strategy is used by traders who anticipate a decline in the value of a digital asset. Kraken, one of the leading cryptocurrency exchanges, provides several mechanisms for users to engage in shorting activities.

Before attempting to short any cryptocurrency on Kraken, it’s essential to understand how derivatives work, especially futures contracts and margin trading. These tools allow traders to take leveraged positions based on their market predictions. Unlike traditional spot trading where you buy and hold assets, shorting enables profit-making during bearish phases.

Setting Up Your Kraken Account for Advanced Trading

To begin shorting crypto on Kraken, you must first ensure your account is eligible for advanced trading features. This includes:

• Completing identity verification to access margin or futures trading.
• Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
• Navigating to the Futures or Margin Trading section within your Kraken dashboard.

Kraken offers both futures trading and margin trading, but each has different requirements and risk profiles. You may need to apply separately for these services and pass knowledge assessments depending on your region.

Once approved, you’ll be able to deposit funds into your futures or margin wallet. It's crucial to maintain sufficient collateral to avoid liquidation, especially when using leverage.

How to Short Crypto Using Kraken Futures

Kraken Futures allows users to trade perpetual contracts for various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more. Here’s how to short crypto via Kraken Futures:

• Log in to your Kraken account and navigate to the "Futures" tab.
• Select the cryptocurrency pair you want to trade (e.g., BTC/USD).
• Switch to the “Perpetual” contract if necessary.
• Under the "Order" section, choose the Sell option to open a short position.
• Set the order type — either Market Order to execute immediately or Limit Order to specify a future price.
• Enter the amount of crypto you wish to short and review the leverage settings.
• Confirm the trade and monitor your open position under the "Positions" tab.

It’s important to note that futures trading involves high risk due to leverage, so always use stop-loss orders and manage your exposure carefully.

Executing a Short Position via Margin Trading on Kraken

Margin trading on Kraken allows you to borrow funds to amplify your trading power. To short crypto using margin:

• Ensure your account has sufficient equity in the applicable currency.
• Go to the “Trade” tab and select the desired trading pair.
• Switch to the Margin Trading view.
• Choose the Sell button to initiate a short trade.
• Specify whether you're using cross-margin or isolated margin.
• Review your borrowing costs and interest rates before confirming the trade.
• Place the order and keep track of your liquidation price to avoid unexpected losses.

Margin trading requires careful monitoring because your borrowed position can be liquidated if the market moves against you and your equity drops below maintenance levels.

Managing Risk When Shorting Crypto on Kraken

Shorting crypto inherently carries significant risk, particularly due to the volatile nature of digital assets. Here are some strategies to help manage your risk effectively:

• Always set stop-loss orders to limit potential losses.
• Use lower leverage ratios unless you have a strong conviction and understanding of the market.
• Monitor market news and macroeconomic factors that could trigger sudden price swings.
• Regularly check your account balance and margin requirements to prevent liquidation.
• Diversify your trading strategies instead of relying solely on short positions.

By implementing these practices, you can better protect your capital while engaging in speculative trades like shorting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I short crypto without using leverage on Kraken?

Yes, Kraken allows traders to short crypto without leverage by simply placing a sell order on a futures contract or margin trade. However, most shorting strategies involve some level of leverage to amplify returns.

Q: Is there a minimum account balance required to short crypto on Kraken?

While Kraken does not publicly disclose a fixed minimum, eligibility for margin and futures trading typically requires a verified account and a certain level of trading experience. Some jurisdictions may require a minimum deposit.

Q: How do funding fees work when shorting on Kraken Futures?

Funding fees are periodic payments exchanged between long and short perpetual contract holders. If you’re short and the funding rate is positive, you’ll receive payments; if negative, you’ll pay. These fees are calculated hourly and applied every 8 hours.

Q: What happens if my short position gets liquidated on Kraken?

If your margin falls below the maintenance requirement, Kraken will automatically close your position to prevent further losses. This process is known as liquidation, and it can occur without manual intervention.