Kraken's co-founder Jesse Powell addressed a banker's critique of stablecoin yields during a conference event held in July 2025, emphasizing Kraken's ongoing product expansion and client custody services. The event highlights ongoing tensions between crypto and traditional finance, affecting market dynamics, with Kraken focusing on enhancing staking services despite traditional bankers' skepticism about high yield returns.
Jesse Powell, Kraken's co-founder, has publicly responded to a traditional banker's criticism on stablecoin yields. Powell is known for his leadership in the crypto industry and served as Kraken's CEO before stepping down in 2023.
Powell's response comes amidst ongoing debates regarding the viability of stablecoin yields. Current market conditions highlight Kraken's strategic focus on enhanced custodial services for staking. This marks a crucial juncture in the company's operational tactics.
Jesse Powell Addresses Traditional Banker’s Critique
The criticism by a traditional banker over stablecoin yields has sparked discussions within the crypto community. While Powell did not address the antagonist directly on Twitter, Kraken's market leadership is evident in their increasing trading volumes.
Potential outcomes highlight the importance of market resilience amid traditional financial skepticism. Kraken's financials show revenue growth despite macro challenges, with a rise in stable-fiat trading volumes from 43% to 68% in Q2 2025.
Kraken's Trading Volumes Rise Amid Criticism
Similar objections to stablecoin yields have been raised during high APY periods or protocol exploits, paralleling events such as USDC's depeg. Such instances occasionally lead to capital flight to more stable assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Experts emphasize that current conditions reflect broader industry acceptance of stablecoin yields despite traditional skepticism. Data suggests the crypto market will continue to adapt, strengthening staking and yield-bearing offerings.
Stablecoin Yields Gain Broader Market Acceptance
Jesse Powell, Co-founder, Kraken, "Staked is highly complementary to our existing staking business and will allow us to further strengthen our product offering through world-class infrastructure for clients who prefer to retain custody of their staked assets. We're excited to welcome Staked's clients to Kraken."