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How Prices Are Calculated

Oyrade uses proven AMM mechanics for fair, liquid markets.

The LMSR System

We use Logarithmic Market Scoring Rule (LMSR)-the same algorithm powering Polymarket's $2B+ in volume.

Why LMSR?

FeatureBenefit
Always liquidTrade any size, anytime
Bounded lossMarket maker risk is capped
Efficient pricesReflects true probability
Smooth curvesNo sudden price jumps

Price Formula

For a binary market with YES/NO shares:

Price(YES) = e^(q_yes/b) / (e^(q_yes/b) + e^(q_no/b))

Where:

  • q_yes = quantity of YES shares outstanding
  • q_no = quantity of NO shares outstanding
  • b = liquidity parameter (controls price sensitivity)

Don't worry about the math-the UI shows you real-time prices.

How Prices Move

When you buy shares:

  • Buying YES → YES price increases, NO price decreases
  • Buying NO → NO price increases, YES price decreases

The more you buy, the more the price moves against you (slippage).

Slippage Example

Starting price: YES = $0.50

Buy AmountExecution PriceEnding Price
10 shares$0.51$0.52
100 shares$0.55$0.60
1000 shares$0.65$0.75
Reduce Slippage
  • Break large orders into smaller trades
  • Wait for others to trade against you
  • Use limit orders when available

Understanding the Spread

The difference between YES + NO prices represents:

  • Trading fees (0.2% to protocol)
  • Market maker premium
  • Uncertainty cost

Typical spread: 1-3% (tighter than most DEX swaps).

Pump.fun Market Caps

For Pump.fun token markets, prices are derived from:

Market Cap = Token Price × Circulating Supply

Oracles (Switchboard) provide real-time MC data from DEX liquidity.


Next: How markets are resolved →