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The crypto market is in an uncertain phase. Prices are volatile, trading volumes are declining, and many investors are wondering if the hype is over.
Yet Julian Maddocks, who has been with crypto exchange Kraken for seven years, sees something else happening. Where some are fearfully dropping out, he sees the foundation being laid for the next growth phase.
From Bitcoin Miner to Kraken Manager #
Julian discovered bitcoin back in 2013, when he learned on the Tweakers forum how to convert his computer into a miner. What began as an experiment grew into a career at one of the most influential crypto exchanges in the world.
“When I started, it was all pioneering; now you’re building relationships with banks, governments, and companies that didn’t even dare to talk about bitcoin before.”
At Kraken, he now works as a Senior Institutional Relationship Manager, guiding entrepreneurs, artists, and large investors in their dealings with crypto. His story shows how quickly the industry has matured.
Why Fear Isn’t Necessarily Bad News #
Fear in the market is, according to Julian, not a sign of weakness but of transition. Every new phase in crypto begins with doubt. While prices fall, new infrastructure is being built beneath the surface.
“People are more cautious, but also more serious. They want to know where their money really is and are increasingly choosing safe exchanges with clear rules.”
At Kraken, he sees daily how customers are looking at the market differently. The recent partnership between Kraken and Bunq, which allows Dutch people to buy bitcoin directly through their banking app, fits perfectly into that trend, he says.
Crypto is slowly outgrowing its wild early phase and securing a place within the traditional financial world.
The Next Step: 24/7 Stock Trading on the Blockchain and Usable Crypto #
During the podcast, Julian also shares what’s happening behind the scenes at Kraken.
For example, the company is working on xStocks, a platform that puts regular stocks, like Tesla and Microsoft, on the blockchain. This allows them to be freely traded or even held in self-custody.
“Crypto is becoming more and more useful; it’s no longer just about speculating, but about using.”
Additionally, Kraken recently launched the Krak Card in collaboration with Mastercard. This allows users to spend their crypto directly, both online and in stores.
How Experts View the Future of Crypto, Security, and Adoption #
Despite the gloomy sentiment, Julian remains optimistic. The market repeats itself, he says: periods of fear often lead to innovation and growth. His message to listeners:
“See crypto not as a sprint, but as a marathon. The short term hurts, but the long term rewards patience.”