Polymarket Hits Record Weekly Trading Volume Since the 2024 US Elections
- Why Did Polymarket’s Trading Volume Surge?
- How Does Polymarket Compare to Competitors?
- Are Bots Driving Polymarket’s Growth?
- What’s Next for Polymarket?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Polymarket, the prediction market platform, has just closed its most successful week to date, surpassing even the trading volumes seen during the 2024 US election season. Driven by a surge in retail traders and automated bot activity, the platform has solidified its position as a leader in the prediction market space. Weekly spot volumes exceeded $1.25 billion, marking a historic high. While open interest remains subdued compared to the election peak, new markets like sports, current events, and short-term crypto price predictions have fueled growth. Polymarket also outperformed competitors like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Kalshi in web traffic, proving its resilience amid rising competition.
Why Did Polymarket’s Trading Volume Surge?
Polymarket’s recent success isn’t just a fluke—it’s the result of multiple factors converging. First, the platform has seen an influx of retail traders, many of whom are drawn to its user-friendly interface and quick settlement times. Second, automated Trading Bots have significantly contributed to liquidity, particularly in high-volume prediction pairs. According to, weekly spot trading volume crossed $1.25 billion, a milestone not seen since the 2024 election frenzy. Interestingly, while open interest remains below all-time highs, the shift toward smaller-scale predictions suggests a broader user base rather than reliance on whale activity.
How Does Polymarket Compare to Competitors?
Polymarket isn’t just growing—it’s dominating. In October, the platform recorded 19.9 million visits, edging out DraftKings and FanDuel, according to founder Shayne Coplan. It even overtook Kalshi after months of neck-and-neck competition. For crypto natives, prediction markets are becoming a preferred alternative to traditional trading due to faster settlements and perceived fairness. The platform’s share of activity relative to centralized exchanges (CEXs) has risen to 0.58%, a small but growing slice of the pie. While prediction markets remain niche, they’re attracting traders from slowing sectors like perpetual futures, meme coins, and decentralized exchanges (DEXs).
Are Bots Driving Polymarket’s Growth?
Let’s be real—bots are playing a huge role. On-chain analysis reveals accounts with clear signs of automation, some racking up impressive win streaks by exploiting niche markets. Others front-run resolution data, buying just before a market settles. While most bots stick to liquid prediction pairs, individual traders are diving into less popular markets for higher-risk opportunities. That said, copy-trading bots come with risks; some promoted links have turned out to be malicious. As one BTCC analyst noted, “Automation boosts volume, but users should stay cautious.”
What’s Next for Polymarket?
Despite its US beta limitations, Polymarket’s global traction is undeniable. The platform ranked as the third-most-visited crypto site in November, trailing only Robinhood and Coinbase. Its expansion into sports, politics, and crypto price predictions has diversified its appeal. While the 2024 elections remain the peak for open interest, the current growth suggests a sustainable model—not just a one-time event. If Polymarket can maintain this momentum, it could redefine how traders engage with prediction markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Polymarket’s recent volume spike?
The surge stems from increased retail participation, automated trading bots, and new market offerings like short-term crypto predictions.
How does Polymarket compare to DraftKings and Kalshi?
Polymarket recently surpassed both in web traffic, with 19.9 million visits in October, per founder Shayne Coplan.
Are bots a major factor in Polymarket’s trading?
Yes, on-chain data shows automated accounts contributing significantly to volume, though some carry risks like malicious copy-trading schemes.
