How to Bet on Time Magazine’s 2025 Person of the Year

Every December, Time magazine announces their selection for Person of the Year, recognizing the person or group who most influenced the news and events of the past year. In 2024, Donald Trump was named Person of the Year for the second time, having received the honor once before back in 2016. With the 2025 announcement approaching, speculation is building on who will receive the honor this year. For those interested in betting on the outcome, here are some tips on how to place your wager.

Research the Shortlist

Time typically announces a shortlist of candidates for Person of the Year in early December. This list provides valuable insight into who Time sees as the front runners for the distinction. Review the shortlist closely, researching each contender and their accomplishments over the past year. Focus on individuals who have made major international news headlines or significantly shaped major events.

Follow the News Cycle

Pay close attention to news events and important developments during the eligibility period, which is usually the 12 months leading up to the announcement. Make a note of any figures who dominate news coverage or are associated with major stories. Recent Person of the Year selections have been influential leaders, activists, or cultural icons at the center of major news events.

Consider Time Magazine’s Criteria

Remember that Time’s criteria are focused on the person who most influenced the news, for better or worse. Being admirable or likable is not a requirement. Sometimes notorious or controversial figures are selected to recognize their sizable impact. Do not make bets solely based on who seems most deserving of the honor.

Check Oddsmakers

View the latest odds from bookmakers to see which candidates they view as most likely to be selected. Oddsmakers analyze the news and public opinion to set their lines. Keep in mind that these odds fluctuate in the lead-up to the announcement as new developments occur. Checking regularly can reveal rising or falling candidates.

Trust Your Instincts

There is no exact science to predicting Time’s decision. Use the shortlist and oddsmaker’s picks to inform your bet, but also go with your gut. Reflect on the news stories and figures that truly defined the past year in your view. Time’s selection often surprises, so have confidence in your own perspective.

Hedging Bets

Given the unpredictability of the choice, consider hedging your bet by wagering on multiple candidates. This increases your chances of picking the winner. Just be wary of spreading your money too thin over too many options. Typically, picking your top two or three choices makes the most sense.

Go Big or Go Home

Unlike betting on sports or other future events where there are many possible outcomes, the Person of the Year result comes down to just one winner. For this reason, modest betting is less useful than taking a risk on your top choice. If you are going with multiple bets, put the most money on your top pick and smaller amounts on your other selections.

Have Fun with Prop Bets

Many bookmakers offer fun “prop bets” on details around the announcement, like the month or exact date it will be made. These can provide added excitement as you watch the news leading up to the reveal. Prop bets also give you additional ways to win if your Person of the Year prediction falls short.

The Announcement Day

Time’s Person of the Year is announced in mid-December, though the precise date varies annually. On the day, follow news reports closely for any leaks or rumors about Time’s selection. Last minute revelations from the media or oddsmaker shifts may give you a chance to adjust your strategy. Stay ready to react quickly.

Enjoy the Ride!

Betting on major news outcomes like Time’s Person of the Year can be an entertaining way to engage with important events and feel invested in the news. Approach it first and foremost as an amusing experience, not as a way to make money. The thrill comes from correctly predicting history, not the payout.

With savvy analysis of news events, intelligent use of oddsmaker information, and your own instincts about significant figures, you can make a smart bet on Time’s 2025 Person of the Year. Remember to hedge bets, take risks when warranted, and enjoy the excitement. By following these tips, you stand a fighting chance to profit and feel part of history when Time magazine makes its announcement at the end of this year.