Polymarket’s Regulatory Milestone Overshadowed by Racial Slur Controversy
Polymarket's hard-won approval to operate in the U.S. was eclipsed by self-inflicted controversy after its official account posted—then deleted—a racial slur targeting South Asian communities. The prediction market platform, which counts Shayne Coplan as CEO, faces mounting criticism for failing to address the incident.
The since-deleted post on X referred to 'Jeets'—a derogatory term for people of Indian descent—while announcing the removal of affiliate badges. Backlash was immediate, with rivals like Kalshi's supporters condemning the language as 'unpardonable' and 'extremely unprofessional.'
No apology has been issued, raising questions about Polymarket's expansion ambitions in India. The incident underscores the volatile intersection of crypto culture and corporate responsibility.
