Institutional Investors Boost Crypto Exposure as Market Conditions Put Kraken IPO on Hold

A Coinbase and EY-Parthenon survey found that 73% of institutional investors planned to increase their digital-asset allocations in 2026, while 74% expected crypto prices to rise over the next 12 months. Capital is also shifting toward regulated vehicles such as spot ETFs, suggesting institutions have not abandoned the market wholesale during the downturn but are placing greater emphasis on risk controls and regulatory safeguards.

In contrast to the stronger institutional demand, Kraken has paused plans for an IPO that was expected to raise several billion dollars because of weak crypto markets. The exchange was previously valued at about $20 billion, dismissed its chief financial officer in early 2026 and has recently been reported to be cutting jobs. As of July 2026, Kraken had not announced a firm date for restarting the listing process.