World Cup Ignites Prediction Markets: Polymarket Trading Volume Surges 300%, Kalshi Open Interest Hits Record $1.16 Billion

Odaily Planet Daily News In the ten days leading up to the World Cup, Polymarket's football category trading volume exceeded $2 billion, a 300% increase from the previous ten days. The average daily trading volume rose from $53 million before the tournament to approximately $220 million. Meanwhile, Kalshi's open interest reached a record $1.16 billion last Thursday, breaking through the $1 billion mark for the first time, a 350% increase since the beginning of this year.

Although Polymarket's open interest remained relatively stable during the World Cup, and the open interest of Polymarket's US branch only saw modest growth, it did not reach the highs of April 2026. Kalshi's open interest grew faster than its trading volume, indicating that its user base holds positions for longer periods and has established larger directional positions. Its CFTC-regulated channel and direct USD deposit gateway have attracted US institutions and high-net-worth dollar investors. (The Block)