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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
World
Wyatte Grantham-Philips

A huge bet payout after Maduro’s capture turns spotlight on murky world of prediction markets

Polymarket prediction market website is displayed on a computer screen Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Wally Santana) - (Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Prediction markets, allowing wagers on anything from sports to political shifts, are under renewed scrutiny following a substantial payout linked to Nicolás Maduro's removal, highlighting the murky nature of speculative, 24/7 transactions.

An anonymous trader recently pocketed over $400,000 after successfully betting on the Venezuelan leader's imminent departure.

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