Crypto Prediction Markets Surge in 2025 as Blockchain Transforms Forecasting

Crypto-based prediction markets have evolved from obscure betting platforms into influential forecasting systems that often outperform polls and expert analysis. In 2025, the sector reached billions in trading volume, mainstream media integrations, and widespread adoption, turning decentralized forecasting into a core part of modern information markets. Understanding how these systems work gives you a front-row seat to the future of crowd-powered predictions — with the added potential for financial rewards.

How Blockchain Prediction Markets Function

Prediction markets tokenize future events by issuing digital shares tied to specific outcomes. Each share trades between $0 and $1, with its price representing the market’s collective estimate of that outcome’s probability. Traders buy shares in outcomes they believe will occur, and if they’re correct, those shares settle at $1 once the event concludes; if incorrect, they drop to zero. This structure incentivizes accuracy and leverages collective intelligence.

Blockchain provides transparency, immutability, and automated settlement through smart contracts. Most platforms rely on stablecoins like USDC to maintain price stability while still benefiting from decentralized finance rails.

Polymarket Leads the Decentralized Frontier

Polymarket has become the largest and most influential prediction market, recording more than $18 billion in trading volume across 2024 and 2025. Built on Polygon for fast and low-cost transactions, the platform uses USDC exclusively and allows anyone to propose and trade on markets spanning politics, crypto, sports, economics, culture, and emerging trends.

Its partnerships with Yahoo Finance and Google Finance mark a major step in mainstream recognition, as Polymarket data now appears alongside traditional financial indicators. The platform’s liquidity is powered by automated market makers, enabling users to enter or exit positions freely without trading fees. Although globally accessible, regulatory restrictions limit Polymarket’s availability in the United States.

Kalshi Brings Regulation and Institutional Confidence

Kalshi represents the regulated counterpart to decentralized prediction markets. As the first CFTC-approved prediction market in the U.S., it blends cryptocurrency integration with full legal compliance. The platform reached roughly $1.3 billion in monthly volume by September 2025 and lists event contracts related to politics, sports, culture, and macroeconomics.

Although Kalshi accepts Bitcoin, Solana, and USDC deposits via ZeroHash — converting all crypto to dollars automatically — regulatory oversight limits which markets can be offered. Its expansion into 140 countries and integration with Pyth, Switchboard, and Stork oracles position it as critical Web3 forecasting infrastructure. Trading fees vary with contract pricing, making it more cost-sensitive for active traders, but the regulated environment appeals strongly to institutions and U.S. residents.

Myriad Merges Points, Predictions, and Media Consumption

Myriad approaches the space differently by blending prediction markets with loyalty rewards and content engagement. It operates two systems side-by-side: a points marketplace for no-risk participation and a USDC marketplace for real-money forecasting. This dual model helps beginners learn market dynamics before committing capital.

Points are earned through daily streaks, quests, reading articles, watching videos, using the browser extension, and making predictions — functioning as reputation markers rather than financial assets. Meanwhile, the USDC markets provide traditional prediction-based profits enhanced by bonus points that boost leaderboard rankings. Integrated directly with content from Decrypt and Rug Radio, Myriad embeds prediction prompts into articles and videos, resulting in more than 5.4 million predictions since launch.

Choosing the Best Platform for Your Needs

The right platform depends on your geography, risk tolerance, and trading approach. Polymarket offers unmatched liquidity and global access for users who prefer decentralized systems and fee-free trading. Kalshi is the choice for U.S. residents or institutions requiring legal certainty, regulatory oversight, and clear consumer protections. Myriad is ideal for newcomers seeking a low-pressure introduction through its points ecosystem before transitioning to USDC markets.

Transaction costs also matter: Polymarket charges no trading fees, Kalshi applies variable contract fees, and Myriad’s points markets allow cost-free practice before committing capital.