Prediction market platform Polymarket is transitioning its settlement infrastructure to Circle-issued native USDC, moving away from bridged USDC previously used on Polygon. The change will be implemented over the coming months, according to a joint announcement from Circle Internet Group and Polymarket.
Currently, Polymarket relies on bridged USDC, which represents tokens locked on another blockchain. By adopting native USDC issued directly by Circle’s regulated entities, the platform aims to reduce dependence on cross-chain bridges while improving capital efficiency and settlement reliability. Native USDC can be redeemed one-for-one for US dollars without intermediary mechanisms.
The shift comes as prediction markets expand and attract greater participation from both retail users and crypto-native firms. Polymarket’s move aligns with a broader industry trend toward regulated stablecoins as infrastructure providers seek to lower operational risk while supporting higher transaction volumes and institutional standards.
