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Markets stay open until the event is over. Once the outcome becomes publicly known, the Exchange determines the result using publicly verifiable information.

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How Market Outcomes Are Determined

Each market asks a clear question about a real-world event. When the outcome becomes publicly known, the Exchange confirms it using the criteria defined in the market’s description and rules. Markets resolve using the specific sources listed in the rules. These sources provide the authoritative outcome. Unlisted sources have no effect on market resolution. All determinations follow the event-contract framework used across Polymarket US.

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Types of Resolution Sources

Resolution sources fall into three main categories. Each category has clear standards for what counts as official.

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Government

Government providers supply final, authoritative data for political, economic, and administrative outcomes (e.g., Congress, Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Weather Service).

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Sports

Sports markets resolve using results published by the governing league or competition organizer (e.g., professional football leagues, professional basketball leagues, professional baseball leagues).

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News

Some markets use news outlets as resolution sources. When the rules list specific outlets, resolution comes from those exact outlets. Some markets rely on a single outlet, while others require agreement between several named outlets (e.g., major news outlets, wire services, national newsrooms).

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Timing of Resolution

Resolution occurs after the event outcome is publicly confirmed.
  • Sports markets: Often resolve shortly after the official result is posted
  • Political or news markets: May take longer if certification or official publication is required
  • Complex events: May require additional verification before resolution
Resolution timing varies by event and depends on when reliable information becomes available.

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After Resolution

When a market resolves:
  • Winning shares settle at $1.00
  • Losing shares settle at $0.00
  • Your Portfolio updates automatically when settlement completes

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Finality of Resolution

All resolutions are final in accordance with the Polymarket US Exchange Rulebook.