Polymarket Starts Limited U.S. Rollout

Polymarket has started a controlled return to the United States at the same time Fanatics launched its new prediction market product. The timing places two major operators in the spotlight on the same news cycle. Polymarket confirmed that early users on the Apple Store waitlist are now receiving access to a U.S. version centered on sports event contracts.

Good to Know

• Early access is limited to select Apple Store users
• Android access is expected soon
• Users join by downloading the app and entering a phone number

Early Invites Sent Through Rolling Access

Polymarket shared on X that a portion of its U.S. waitlist can now explore sports markets on the updated app. Android users are next in line. The company wrote that “invites are being sent out on a rolling basis,” signaling that the wider audience will expand over time.

Joining the waitlist is straightforward. A user downloads the app, enters a phone number, receives a confirmation message, and is assigned a place in line. When their turn arrives, they gain an invite code that unlocks trading access.

Earlier in the week, Polymarket reached the top of the Apple Store sports chart. By Wednesday afternoon, it ranked fourth behind FanDuel, DraftKings, and Underdog. The platform has not confirmed when nationwide access will open.

Long Path Back To The U.S. Market

The company first entered the market in 2020, founded by Shayne Caplan. But access closed in 2022 after a settlement with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The regulator stated that Polymarket was operating an unregistered platform tied to cryptocurrency-based event markets. Just last week the CFTC granted the operator permission to start offering its product.

Momentum began to shift this July when Polymarket purchased QCEX, a regulated exchange and clearinghouse overseen by the CFTC. That acquisition provided a legal structure for a U.S. relaunch. The platform promoted the return across social media during football season, but the rollout took months to reach initial users.

Rapid Growth And Large Funding Round

Polymarket has reported strong activity in recent months. Trading volume reached $3.7 billion in November, climbing from $3 billion in October. These figures reflect global participation and rising interest in prediction markets.

The company also secured a $2 billion funding commitment from Intercontinental Exchange, the owner of the New York Stock Exchange. That investment placed Polymarket above $8 billion in valuation. The platform has added high-profile marketing ties as well, including agreements with the NHL, UFC, and daily fantasy operator PrizePicks.