Residents of Taiwan Warned Against Using Cryptocurrency Betting Platforms for Presidential Election
As the Taiwan presidential election approaches, residents have been cautioned against using cryptocurrency betting platforms to wager on the outcome. This warning comes as authorities investigate several individuals who have already been questioned.
A recent report reveals that some Taiwanese citizens have used the decentralized betting platform Polymarket to place bets on the upcoming presidential election scheduled for January 13, 2024.
However, participating in election-related gambling activities in Taiwan is illegal and can result in a six-month imprisonment, detention, or a fine of up to NT$100,000 (approximately $3,188 USD). This potential violation is covered under Article 88-1 of the Election and Recall Act.
Regulatory Challenges for Polymarket
Last year, Polymarket faced regulatory challenges in the United States. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) initiated legal proceedings against the platform in January 2022, accusing it of operating an “illegal unregistered or non-designated facility” since June 2020.
Despite these challenges, Polymarket experienced significant trading activity during the 2020 U.S. election, with a record volume of over $10 million.
Hot Take: Taiwan Cracks Down on Cryptocurrency Betting Ahead of Presidential Election
Ahead of the Taiwan presidential election, authorities are cracking down on cryptocurrency betting platforms. Residents have been warned against using these platforms to place bets on the outcome. The investigation has already led to several individuals being questioned.
Participating in election-related gambling activities is illegal in Taiwan and can result in imprisonment, detention, or a substantial fine. Violators may face up to six months in prison or a fine of NT$100,000 (approximately $3,188 USD).
Polymarket, a decentralized betting platform, has been at the center of this controversy. The platform faced regulatory challenges in the United States last year but saw significant trading activity during the 2020 U.S. election.
By
By
By
By