Why did Bitbank warn users about Polymarket-linked transactions?

Bitbank warned users because transactions connected to Polymarket could potentially conflict with Japan's gambling laws. The exchange said deposits and withdrawals linked to prediction market platforms may result in account restrictions or suspensions.

What are the possible consequences of a Bitbank account suspension?

Bitbank said suspended users could lose access to account logins, cryptocurrency trading, deposits and withdrawals. The exchange warned that these restrictions could apply if transactions are linked to certain prediction market services.

How is Polymarket involved in Bitbank's warning?

Polymarket is a prediction market platform that allows users to trade on the outcomes of future events. Bitbank identified platforms such as Polymarket as services that may raise compliance concerns under Japanese gambling laws.

What does Bitbank's warning mean for Polymarket's plans in Japan?

Bitbank's warning highlights regulatory uncertainty that could affect Polymarket's expansion efforts in Japan. Polymarket currently lists Japan among its restricted jurisdictions but indicated in May that it was exploring opportunities in the country.

What does Bitbank say about the legal status of prediction markets in Japan?

Bitbank said prediction market platforms that allow users to profit from event outcomes could be considered gambling under Japanese law. The exchange did not cite any specific regulatory directive or enforcement action behind its warning.

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Bitbank warns over Polymarket-linked crypto transfers

Written by Heidi Cuthbert Published Jun 16, 2026, 12:12 AM

Bitbank warned customers that transactions linked to prediction markets such as Polymarket could result in account restrictions or suspensions.
The exchange cited potential conflicts with Japanese gambling laws and said suspended users could lose access to trading and withdrawal services.
The warning comes as Polymarket explores potential expansion into Japan despite currently restricting access from the country.

Bitbank, one of Japan's largest cryptocurrency exchanges, warned customers that deposits and withdrawals connected to prediction market platforms such as Polymarket could lead to account suspensions.

The notice highlights regulatory uncertainty around prediction markets in Japan, where gambling laws may apply to services that allow users to profit from betting on future events.

“We will not be liable for any damages incurred by our customers as a result of the account suspension measures,” said Bitbank.

The exchange said restricted accounts could lose access to logins, deposits, withdrawals and cryptocurrency trading, though it did not cite any specific government directive or enforcement action behind the warning.

Bitbank urged users to exercise caution when using external services that may create legal risks under Japanese law; following the announcement there was no immediate market reaction.

The warning comes as prediction market operators face increasing scrutiny globally, with regulators in several jurisdictions examining platforms that offer markets tied to elections, sports and other real-world outcomes.

Polymarket currently lists Japan among its restricted jurisdictions, though the company indicated in May that it was exploring potential expansion opportunities in the country.