- Polymarket blocked in Portugal for unlicensed activity.
- SRIJ orders site access block within 48 hours.
- Uncertainty around user fund recovery remains.
Portuguese authorities have blocked the cryptocurrency platform Polymarket, ordering cessation within 48 hours due to unlicensed activity and a ban on political betting.
The action against Polymarket highlights significant regulatory enforcement, impacting users’ access and potentially shaking confidence in jurisdictional compliance within the crypto sector.
Portuguese authorities have taken action against the cryptocurrency platform Polymarket by ordering it to stop operations. This move arises due to unlicensed activities and an existing ban on political betting within the country.
The intervention involved Portugal’s SRIJ which demands that Polymarket ceases operations. Polymarket, founded by Shayne Coplan, notably lacks the required gambling authorization. On this, the Serviço de Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos (SRIJ) stated, “Polymarket lacks authorization, and political betting is banned in Portugal, leading to this order.” Source
The immediate effect is a comprehensive block on site access via internet providers, affecting many users. Additionally, there remains a financial risk regarding users’ fund recovery post-block due to the absence of safeguarding measures. For the latest updates on similar financial implications in cryptocurrencies, check this Bitcoin market update from WuBlockchain on Twitter.
Financial implications include the potential impact on deposits made with USDC, the primary cryptocurrency used on the platform. There has been no report of significant effects on other cryptocurrencies like ETH or BTC.
Portugal’s decision aligns with similar moves by approximately 30 other countries. This includes restrictions in places like Singapore, Belgium, and France, reflecting a widespread regulatory stance against unauthorized crypto activities.
Insights into future outcomes suggest this may encourage Polymarket to seek operational compliance. The broader regulatory stance may push for more transparent and authorized practices, impacting the use of blockchain for prediction markets in Europe. For further details on the evolving regulatory environment, you can explore latest news and updates from the Bitcoin world.
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