> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://layer3xyz.gitbook.io/layer3-updated-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://layer3xyz.gitbook.io/layer3-updated-docs/arena-telegram/welcome.md).

# Welcome

Arena turns trading into a game you play with friends. Open Telegram, join a **competition**, trade real markets on [Hyperliquid](https://hyperliquid.xyz) for a set time, and the sharpest trader takes the pot.

No app to download. No seed phrase to guard. Just you, the chat, and the leaderboard.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Early access.** The bot is invite-only while we test. If you're not in yet, you will be soon.
{% endhint %}

## What do you want to do?

| Your goal                | Go here                                                                                                                                                           |
| ------------------------ | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| 🎮 Play in a competition | [Getting started](/layer3-updated-docs/arena-telegram/getting-started.md) → [Playing a competition](/layer3-updated-docs/arena-telegram/playing-a-competition.md) |
| 🏆 Run one in your group | [Hosting a competition](/layer3-updated-docs/arena-telegram/hosting-a-competition.md)                                                                             |
| 💰 Understand your funds | [Your wallet & funds](/layer3-updated-docs/arena-telegram/wallet-and-funds.md)                                                                                    |
| 📖 Look up a command     | [Command reference](/layer3-updated-docs/arena-telegram/command-reference.md)                                                                                     |
| ❓ Hit a snag             | [FAQ & troubleshooting](/layer3-updated-docs/arena-telegram/faq.md)                                                                                               |

## How a competition works

A competition is a short, timed trading match that runs in a Telegram group.

1. **A host opens one** and sets the buy-in, the number of players, and how long it runs.
2. **Players buy in.** Every buy-in goes into the **prize pool**.
3. **The pool fills and trading goes live** — everyone trades the same markets for a fixed window, often an hour.
4. **Best return wins.** Players are ranked by their percentage return for the competition, and the top finisher (or top few) take the pool.

A competition that doesn't fill in time is cancelled automatically, and everyone gets refunded.

## A quick word on money

You hold two balances, and the difference matters:

* 💼 **Bot wallet** — USDC on Arbitrum One. Pays your buy-ins, receives your winnings, and is what you withdraw from.
* 📈 **Trading balance** — your capital on Hyperliquid. This is what you actually trade with during a competition.

Move funds between them with one tap. Full detail in [Your wallet & funds](/layer3-updated-docs/arena-telegram/wallet-and-funds.md).