Ghana’s Cardinal Turkson Becomes Unlikely Crypto Darling as Polymarket Odds Surge

An African cardinal is making waves in the most improbable of places—the crypto prediction markets. Peter Turkson’s rising profile on Polymarket has traders scrambling to reconcile faith-based leadership with decentralized finance.

From Vatican to Vegas odds: How a 76-year-old cleric became crypto’s latest fascination. Polymarket positions on Turkson’s future role have spiked 300% since March—outpacing even memecoins during the recent rally.

The development exposes crypto’s endless appetite for narrative—whether it’s AI, ETFs, or now, apparently, ecclesiastical intrigue. Meanwhile, Wall Street still can’t decide if Bitcoin is digital gold or a risk asset. Some things never change.

A $10.7 Million Bet On The Next Pope On Polymarket

Polymarket has added another dimension to the 2025 Papal Conclave. Crypto enthusiasts are betting big on Turkson. Many are drawn to the significance of a “Black Pope.” A Polymarket user wrote, “My moneys on a black pope being elected.”

Turkson has been awarded numerous honorary degrees and speaks six  languages including Fante, English, French, Italian, German, and Hebrew.

“Bet on Peter Turkson! An African heart with a global vision, ready to bring the Vatican the rhythm of justice,” wrote a better. “If Peter Turkson doesn’t become Pope this time, then when? It’s now or never! My hope is with him because the world could use a Pope who brings social justice and a touch of African flair. Go, Peter, make the Vatican great again!”

“Turkson is undervalued being that he speaks multiple languages like Francis which was a key reason Francis was able to drum up supporters,” wrote another.

However, there are opposing views. “Turkson would be a continuation of Francis which wouldn’t be the best I doubt they will choose him,” wrote another Polymarket user.

Who will be the next pope? Here’s a chart comparing the probabilities currently implied by @oddschecker (not adjusted for vig) @ManifoldMarkets @Polymarket and @metaculus pic.twitter.com/ssG2FvIyKh

— Johnny Ten-Numbers (@JohnnyTenNums) April 29, 2025

Africa is one of the fastest-growing centers of Catholicism, and the idea of an African pope has gained traction as the Church.

He is widely regarded as a moderate and a bridge-builder. While he upholds traditional Church teachings on issues such as the male-only priesthood and marriage, he has also spoken out against anti-LGBTQ+ policies in Africa and is known for his advocacy on environmental and social justice issues.

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Key Takeaways

• Crypto bettors are drawn to a “Black Pope” and historic milestones, and Turkson fits both profiles. 

• Cardinal Turkson’s appointments by Pope Francis included Chancellor roles and a position on the Pre-Synodal Council of the Special Assembly of the Synod of Bishops for the Pan-Amazon Region.