Monero (XMR) is one of the few cryptocurrencies that prioritizes true privacy and fungibility, which is exactly why many crypto exchanges have dropped it. In a climate of growing regulatory pressure and surveillance-based finance, privacy coins like Monero are often seen as too risky to list. This has made it harder for US-based users to buy, sell, or trade XMR.
If you’re in the US and wondering where you can still get your hands on Monero, this guide breaks down the current exchange landscape, highlights which platforms still support XMR trading pairs, and shows you how to earn a $50 bonus when you sign up to Kraken using our referral link.
Why Monero Matters
Monero is different from Bitcoin and most other cryptocurrencies because:
- It uses stealth addresses and ring signatures to obscure sender and receiver identities
- Every transaction is private by default—there are no transparent addresses
- It’s truly fungible; no coin can be blacklisted due to past transaction history
These features make Monero a favorite among privacy advocates and those who believe in financial sovereignty. But they also make it a target for de-platforming.
Exchanges That Still Support Monero (XMR)
International Exchanges (Non-US Residents)
- KuCoin: Offers XMR/USDT and other pairs. No KYC required under certain withdrawal limits.
- Gate.io: Supports Monero pairs and requires KYC for most functionality.
- TradeOgre: A privacy-friendly exchange with XMR pairs, but low liquidity.
- Bitfinex: Supports XMR/USD and XMR/BTC pairs. Not available to US residents.
Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs)
- DEXs do not support Monero directly due to its privacy protocol and lack of smart contract compatibility.
- However, you can use atomic swaps or platforms like Haveno (in development) for peer-to-peer XMR trades.
Kraken: The Only Major US Exchange Still Listing Monero
For US-based users, Kraken is the only major regulated exchange still supporting Monero trading pairs.
Kraken offers:
- XMR/USD
- XMR/BTC
- XMR/EUR
Kraken is a highly reputable exchange based in the United States with a long history of supporting privacy projects. It has survived multiple regulatory waves without delisting Monero—making it the go-to choice for Americans who want privacy in their portfolio.
How to Get Started With Kraken (And Earn $50 Free)
If you’re new to Kraken or haven’t signed up yet, here’s how you can get $50 worth of crypto, free:
Step-by-step:
- Sign up for a Kraken account using the referral link: https://kraken.onelink.me/JDNW/w0yffp0z
- Or enter the referral code: fcfhkyst when you create your account
- Complete KYC verification (required for fiat deposits and withdrawals)
- Trade $200 USD or more of any crypto on the Kraken app
- You and I both get $50 in BTC
You can then convert your BTC to Monero (XMR) within Kraken.
Why Kraken Hasn’t Delisted Monero
Unlike many US exchanges that have de-listed Monero under regulatory pressure (Coinbase, Binance.US, Bittrex), Kraken has taken a principled stance on user freedom. They’ve maintained that privacy isn’t illegal, and Monero is a legitimate use of cryptography. This is likely due to Kraken’s strong legal team, conservative compliance approach, and long-term view of cryptocurrency as a civil liberty tool—not just an asset class.
Their commitment is rare in an era of increasing exchange censorship.
Tips for Keeping Your Monero Safe After Purchase
- Withdraw from the exchange: Don’t store your XMR on Kraken or any exchange longer than necessary.
- Use a Monero-compatible wallet like Feather Wallet (desktop), Cake Wallet (mobile), or Monerujo (Android).
- Consider running your own node or using a trusted remote node to improve privacy.
- Learn how to use Monero stealth addresses and avoid address reuse.
If you’re in the US and want to buy Monero, Kraken is your best—and possibly only—regulated option. The privacy and fungibility Monero offers are increasingly rare in a world moving toward digital ID, centralized control, and surveillance-led finance.
Trading Monero isn’t just a financial choice. It’s a statement.
Ready to make your first trade?
Get $50 free when you sign up to Kraken and trade $200 in crypto:
https://kraken.onelink.me/JDNW/w0yffp0z
Referral code: fcfhkyst