The cryptocurrency ecosystem is evolving rapidly, and one of the most significant developments in 2024 is Polygon’s migration from MATIC to POL as its native token. As a leading Layer 2 (L2) scaling solution on Ethereum, Polygon's shift marks a strategic upgrade aimed at enhancing network functionality and token utility across its expanding ecosystem.
Starting 5 September 2024, POL will replace MATIC as the native gas and staking token on Polygon’s Proof-of-Stake (PoS) chain. This transition is not just a rebranding—it represents a foundational change in how the network operates and how users interact with it.
For BitMEX users holding or trading MATIC, this migration has direct implications. BitMEX will fully support the new POL token on the Polygon network, while discontinuing support for both MATIC and POL on Ethereum (ERC-20). If you're currently using MATIC on BitMEX, understanding these changes—and taking timely action—is crucial.
Understanding the MATIC to POL Migration
Polygon’s introduction of POL is part of a broader vision to create a hyperproductive token that fuels innovation across the entire Polygon ecosystem, including the upcoming Aggregator Layer (AggLayer)—a unified interoperability framework linking multiple chains.
In the first phase of this migration:
- POL becomes the primary gas and staking token on the Polygon PoS chain.
- MATIC will no longer be used for transaction fees or staking on this network.
- Future phases will allow the community to expand POL’s utility through governance decisions.
This means that MATIC is being phased out on Polygon, and users must prepare accordingly—especially those using centralized platforms like BitMEX.
How BitMEX Is Adapting to the Migration
To align with Polygon’s upgrade, BitMEX is implementing a structured transition plan designed to minimize disruption and ensure user assets remain secure.
Key Transition Timeline
- 27 August 2024:
BitMEX enables zero-fee withdrawals for all MATIC (ERC-20) tokens. This allows users to safely move their holdings off-platform without incurring network costs. - 3 September 2024:
All MATIC-related products—including Spot, Perpetuals (MATICUSDT), and Convert functionality—will be delisted. Trading will cease, and open positions will be settled early. - 5 September 2024 onwards:
BitMEX will officially enable POL on the Polygon network and launch new trading pairs such as POL/USDT Spot and Perpetual contracts.
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What You Need to Do: Action Steps for Users
If you hold MATIC or have open positions on BitMEX, here’s what you need to do:
✅ Withdraw Your MATIC (ERC-20) Before 3 September
Since BitMEX will stop supporting MATIC on Ethereum, any remaining balance after delisting may become inaccessible or difficult to recover.
How to Withdraw MATIC from BitMEX:
- Log in to your BitMEX account and navigate to the Wallets page.
- Locate your MATIC (ERC-20) balance under "Balances".
- Click Withdraw.
- Enter a valid Ethereum (ERC-20) wallet address (either new or saved).
- Specify the amount—you can use the “Max” button for convenience.
- Add an optional note for record-keeping.
- Confirm via email.
🔔 Important: From 27 August 2024, BitMEX will cover all withdrawal fees for MATIC (ERC-20), meaning you pay $0 in network costs.
👉 Learn how top traders manage asset migrations during major network transitions.
Early Delisting and Settlement of MATIC Contracts
BitMEX will proactively settle outstanding contracts before the official migration date.
Perpetual Contract: MATICUSDT
- Last trading time: 04:00 UTC on 3 September 2024 (T_start)
- Settlement time: 12:00 UTC on 3 September 2024 (T_settle)
At T_start:
- The final funding rate (F₀) is calculated based on the previous 8 hours.
- No further funding rates will be applied after this point.
At T_settle:
- All open positions are automatically closed using the settlement price.
- Funding payments are exchanged based on F₀.
- Trading stops, and all pending orders are canceled.
- No fees are charged for settlement.
- PnL from closed positions is credited to your Bitcoin balance.
Spot Market: MATIC/USDT
- Trading continues until 12:00 UTC on 3 September 2024.
At settlement:
- All open orders are canceled.
- No further trades can be executed.
Users are strongly advised to close positions manually before these deadlines to maintain control over entry and exit prices.
What Happens to POL and MATIC After Migration?
After 5 September 2024:
- BitMEX will only support POL on the Polygon network.
- Support for MATIC (ERC-20) and POL (ERC-20) will be permanently discontinued.
- New trading instruments featuring POL will go live, including spot and derivatives markets.
💡 Note: If you previously deposited MATIC on Polygon (not ERC-20) into your BitMEX wallet, your balance will automatically convert to POL once support is enabled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why is Polygon migrating from MATIC to POL?
A: The migration aims to enhance scalability and interoperability across Polygon’s growing ecosystem. POL serves as a unified economic layer for multiple chains, starting with the PoS chain and expanding via AggLayer.
Q: Can I still use MATIC after the migration?
A: Yes—but only within legacy systems or exchanges that continue supporting ERC-20 MATIC. On Polygon’s PoS chain, POL replaces MATIC entirely for gas and staking.
Q: Will my MATIC automatically turn into POL on BitMEX?
A: No. Only deposits made via the Polygon network (not ERC-20) will be converted to POL. If you hold ERC-20 MATIC, you must withdraw it before delisting.
Q: Are there risks if I don’t withdraw my MATIC?
A: Yes. After delisting, withdrawing ERC-20 MATIC may no longer be supported, potentially resulting in loss of access to your funds.
Q: When will POL trading go live on BitMEX?
A: POL contracts—including Spot and Perpetuals—are expected to launch starting 5 September 2024.
Q: Is POL a new token or just a rebranded MATIC?
A: While POL replaces MATIC’s role on Polygon, it is part of a larger architectural upgrade. Token holders receive POL through a fair distribution model; existing MATIC holders receive POL proportionally.
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Final Thoughts
The shift from MATIC to POL represents more than a token swap—it's a leap forward in Polygon’s mission to build a scalable, interconnected Web3 future. For BitMEX users, staying informed and acting promptly ensures a smooth transition.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Withdraw your MATIC (ERC-20) now with zero fees, close open positions responsibly, and get ready for the next generation of digital asset trading with POL.
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