The useful question is what changes for users, developers or buyers, and whether the announcement stays industry context or becomes something people can actually use.

Kraken Pro fee tiers previously operated separately for spot and futures trading, with each tier determined solely by volume in its respective market. Balances held without trading had no impact on fee levels. Starting July 9, 2026, the platform will calculate fee tiers based on the highest of three metrics: spot volume, futures volume, or account open position (AOP). This unified approach applies the best-qualifying tier to both spot and futures rates, simplifying fee structures for users active in multiple markets.

Customers in Canada, the United States, and New Zealand are excluded from futures-based tier qualification due to regional restrictions. For these users, only spot trading volume and AOP will determine fee tiers. AOP includes the USD value of wallet balances, Opt-In Rewards, staking, and Dual Investment holdings, but excludes loans, parent client balances, and equities. Unlike trading volume, AOP is assessed in real time, meaning fee tiers can fluctuate immediately with market movements or withdrawals.

The new system does not guarantee lower fees for all users, as tier qualification depends on individual activity or holdings. A tier earned through AOP is not fixed and adjusts with balance changes. Accounts will automatically be placed in the correct tier on July 9, 2026, based on the highest qualifying metric. Users are encouraged to review their current holdings to understand their new tier, as balances in staking, rewards, or Dual Investment may now qualify them for improved rates without recent trading activity.

The updated fee tiers apply to both spot and futures trading, with rates structured in basis points. Negative maker rates indicate rebates, where Kraken pays the maker instead of charging fees. The new cross-platform system is now live as of July 9, 2026, replacing the previous product-specific fee calculations. Users should review the Kraken Pro fee schedule for live rate details and consult regional terms for eligibility and restrictions.