Crypto exchage Kraken plans to launch its own blockchain Ink in early 2024

According to Bloomberg, the crypto exchange Kraken plans to launch its dedicated blockchain Ink in early 2024 to support DeFi trading, lending, and staking services. Kraken founder Andrew Koller stated that the technology of Ink will be similar to Coinbase's Base, with the testnet expected to go live within the year and the mainnet to be opened to retail and institutional users in the first quarter of next year. Kraken plans to provide applications on Ink through the Kraken Wallet, with over 12 DeFi applications launching initially, and potentially expanding to include real-world assets and advanced lending applications in the future.