Flow-First Derivatives
Hedge global trade flows
Binary & index markets on the world's most important ports and chokepoints
Ballast markets key performance indicators
- Coverage6 chokepoints • 6 ports
- ResolutionWeekly windows · T+1
- MethodologyPublic & auditable
The Ballast Stack
Logistics-grade rails from data to interface
Every layer is auditable and optimized for multi-basis trading desks.
Data Ingest
PortWatch, AIS, and customs partners → normalized calls, tonnage, queue-days.
Oracle & Proof
Snapshotting, hashing, attestations, and a transparent dispute window.
Market Engine
Binaries, scalars, conditional spreads, and options with logistics-aware ticks.
Liquidity Layer
Maker incentives, quoting bots, and calendar concentration for deep books.
Interface & API
Pro app, websockets, REST, and webhook notifications for desks & partners.
Future layers: containers, LNG, rail, and trucking indices built on the same rails.
Why Ballast
Built for chokepoint risk, not general news flow
Compare the design goals powering Ballast versus prominent event markets.
| Dimension | Ballast | Polymarket | Kalshi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Trade flows (ports & routes) | General events | Regulated macro events |
| Instruments | Flow binaries, scalars, conditional spreads, options | Mostly binaries | Binaries and spreads |
| Settlement | Official telemetry, hashed proofs | Mixed sources | Mixed sources |
| Audience | Traders, shipping desks, hedgers | Retail prediction markets | Regulated speculators |
Focus
Trade flows (ports & routes)
General events
Regulated macro events
Instruments
Flow binaries, scalars, conditional spreads, options
Mostly binaries
Binaries and spreads
Settlement
Official telemetry, hashed proofs
Mixed sources
Mixed sources
Audience
Traders, shipping desks, hedgers
Retail prediction markets
Regulated speculators
How it works
Three steps from thesis to resolution
Designed for both idea velocity and back-office assurance.
Predict01
Select a chokepoint or port contract and express your outcome on the weekly line.Trade02
Quote tight orderbooks, ladder scalars, or compose spreads with live liquidity readouts.Settle03
T+1 telemetry snapshots, hashed proofs, and immutable dispute records.
Documentation
Build conviction or build on top — your call
Dive into methodologies or wire the API into your stack. Both start here.
Methodology
Settlement rules, observation windows, and telemetry sources.
API & Docs
Market specs, websockets, and integration quick starts.