Shayne Coplan, Generation Z’s first major billionaire

Shayne Coplan: Generation Z’s Youngest Major Billionaire

Shayne Coplan, 27, is known for his fast-paced lifestyle. Last year, at a Manhattan venture capital networking dinner, he arrived casually in jeans and a leather jacket. Despite being recognized as one of the most promising entrepreneurs, he left early to attend a concert in Brooklyn.

Polymarket’s Rise and Innovation

Coplan founded Polymarket in 2020, a platform allowing users to bet on the outcomes of real-world events, ranging from Brazil’s elections to the chances of the Obamas divorcing. Powered by blockchain technology, Polymarket displays live predictions based on collective market sentiment, offering what Coplan describes as a more objective alternative to traditional media coverage.

"Polymarket offers a more objective view than traditional media, as its predictions are the sum of thousands of individual opinions and are not influenced by ideological biases or political agendas."

Investment and Valuation

Following a $2 billion investment from Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), the owner of the New York Stock Exchange, Polymarket’s valuation has surged to around $8 billion. Before ICE’s involvement, the platform attracted prominent investors from technology and politics, including Peter Thiel’s Founders Fund.

Additionally, through 1789 Capital — a conservative-leaning tech fund — Peter Thiel has taken on an advisory role within the company.

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EL PAÍS English EL PAÍS English — 2025-11-02

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