> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.visionmakers.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.visionmakers.io/platform/vmakers.md).

# vMakers competitions

Trading and analytics competitions with prize pools

vMakers runs recurring trading and analytics competitions, with entry and prizes settled in the
platform's own asset.

## How a competition works

| Stage | Detail |
| --- | --- |
| **Announcement** | Rules, window, prize pool and scoring published before entry opens |
| **Entry** | Paid on entry. Entry closes when the window opens |
| **Trading window** | A fixed period, identical for every participant |
| **Live leaderboard** | Ranking visible throughout |
| **Settlement** | Prizes distributed after verification |

## Scoring

Competitions score on **realised performance over the window**, not unrealised position value at
the close. This matters: scoring on open positions rewards whoever happens to be holding
something volatile at the final bell, which measures luck rather than skill.

Different competitions use different scoring rules, including percentage return, absolute
profit, and risk-adjusted variants. The rule in force is published with the competition and does
not change mid-event.

## Analytics competitions

Not every competition is a trading contest. Analytics competitions score the accuracy of calls
and research rather than executed trades, which lets people compete without putting capital at
risk. Accuracy accrues to a persistent profile.

## Why competitions exist

They are not only engagement. Competitions generate **performance data under directly comparable
conditions**: the same window, the same market, the same rules. That is difficult to obtain any
other way, and it feeds two things:

- **Wallet ranking** in [MOFO & Mindshare](/platform/mindshare), where comparable conditions make performance claims meaningful.
- **Behavioural inputs** to [MOFO & Mindshare](/platform/mindshare), since what people trade under competition is a clean signal of conviction.

## Prize pools

Pools are funded from the ecosystem and rewards budget.

Pool size, distribution curve and the number of paid places are published per competition.

## Fair play

The following forfeit entitlements and may result in account action:

- **Multi-accounting**, including Sybil entries created to occupy several leaderboard places.
- **Wash trading** or any self-dealing that inflates apparent volume or performance.
- **Coordinated manipulation** between participants.
- **Exploiting a scoring bug** rather than reporting it.
- **Front-running** other participants using advance knowledge of competition mechanics.

These are breaches of the [Acceptable Use Policy](/legal/acceptable-use). Enforcement is
proportionate and can be appealed through
[Complaints and Disputes](/legal/complaints).

## Risks

**Entry fees are not refundable** once a competition window opens.

**Competition trading encourages risk-taking.** A leaderboard rewards the tail outcome, which is
a structural incentive toward larger positions than you would otherwise take. Trade the
competition with capital you would risk anyway.

**Prize distribution depends on verification.** Settlement follows a review period, and entries
found in breach are removed before distribution.

See [Risk Disclosures](/legal/risk-disclosures).

## Related

[Vision Makers Pad](/platform/pad) · [MOFO & Mindshare](/platform/mindshare)