Polymarket Acquires QCEX, Plans U.S. Relaunch

Polymarket, a leading crypto-based prediction market platform, is set to re-enter the U.S. by acquiring QCEX, a CFTC-licensed derivatives exchange and clearinghouse, for $112 million. This acquisition follows the closure of regulatory investigations by the CFTC and Department of Justice into Polymarket’s previous unregistered activity, marking a pathway for compliant U.S. operations after its 2022 exit. Founder Shayne Coplan described the move as 'bringing Polymarket home,' highlighting a renewed focus on regulatory clarity and consumer access. Polymarket plans to integrate QCEX technology and collaborate with regulators before launching U.S. onboarding. The company’s return coincides with heightened interest in prediction markets following its 2024 election surge and a new partnership with Elon Musk’s X. Polymarket will now compete with regulated platforms such as Crypto.com and Kalshi, reflecting evolving industry and regulatory dynamics.