Kraken will list more than 50 tokenized stocks and ETFs, such as Apple (AAPL), Tesla (TSLA) and Nvidia. The move makes crypto-style 24/7 trading available for traditional equities, broadening access to some of the largest tech stocks, as per Wall Street Journal.

At the time of writing, Nvidia (NVDA) is trading at $132.54, up 0.56%; Tesla (TSLA) at $333.20, down 0.42%; and Apple (AAPL) at $200.09, down 0.99%.

The stock tokens will run on Solana, and will represent real securities managed by Kraken’s partner, Backed Finance. These tokens are 1:1 redeemable for their cash value, such that the price of the tokens remains in sync with the actual asset.

This means each token is equivalent to one real share (or fraction) of the actual stock, like Apple or Tesla. The token’s value is always pegged to the value of the actual stock. So if Apple stock is worth $200, the token is worth $200.

Buyers can also "cash out" the token for the same amount as it is worth for the real stock. This helps keep the value of the token stable and corresponds with the actual stock's value in the market.

The move adds to a wave of interest in how blockchain can revolutionize the way traditional finance operates, making it easier and more democratic. While earlier proposals, including Binance’s in 2021, struggled against regulatory issues, Kraken liaises with regulators as part of a strategy to comply.

The launch will initially cover Europe, Latin America, Africa, and Asia, but not the U.S., citing regulatory limitations. Kraken’s move is a major advance toward the blurring of lines between conventional equities and crypto trading, meaning anyone using the exchange can now invest in major tech stocks 24/7.

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