Polymarket is gearing up for a powerful return to the United States before the end of November, signaling a new chapter for the fast-growing prediction-market industry. According to Bloomberg, the company is finalizing plans to reopen its platform to American users after years of regulatory challenges.
The move follows its 2022 settlement with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission, which forced Polymarket to halt operations for U.S. residents and pay a $1.4 million penalty. Since then, the company has made key strategic moves, including the acquisition of QCX, a licensed derivatives exchange and clearinghouse, paving the way for a compliant U.S. relaunch.
Sports Betting Partnerships Drive New Strategy
Polymarket is taking a bold step into the sports-trading arena by striking multi-year licensing deals with the National Hockey League and other major sports organizations. This marks the first time a U.S. sports league has partnered with a blockchain-based prediction-market operator. The partnership positions Polymarket to compete directly with traditional sportsbooks like DraftKings and FanDuel, which are bound by state-specific regulations.
Federal licensing now enables platforms like Polymarket to operate nationally, giving them an edge over localized sports-betting services. As prediction markets grow in popularity, they are quickly becoming a serious alternative for event-based trading and speculative investing.
Massive Funding and Token Launch Ahead
Investor confidence in Polymarket remains strong. The company recently attracted funding from Intercontinental Exchange, valuing it near $9 billion, and is reportedly exploring new fundraising that could push its valuation as high as $15 billion. Market data from The Block shows Polymarket and rival Kalshi processed over $6.3 billion in trading volume in October alone.
Additionally, Polymarket confirmed plans for its much-anticipated POLY token and an airdrop for its most active users. Chief Marketing Officer Matthew Modabber emphasized that the token will focus on long-term value and real-world utility, aligning with the company’s broader expansion strategy.
Outlook for the Prediction-Market Sector
Polymarket’s U.S. comeback could reshape how event-driven markets are regulated and traded. Its integration of blockchain technology, licensed derivatives infrastructure, and major sports partnerships highlights a major shift toward mainstream adoption. Consequently, this relaunch may redefine the boundaries between crypto-based trading and regulated sports wagering across the country.