#United States #Washington #Consumer Protection #Prediction Markets #NCPG

Growing Public Support for Consumer Protections in Prediction Markets

A national survey conducted by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) in partnership with Harris Poll has uncovered significant public sentiment regarding consumer protections on prediction market platforms. The results demonstrate that a notable majority of Americans see these platforms as akin to traditional gambling, thereby warranting similar consumer safety measures.

Key Findings from the Survey

• - Public Perception of Prediction Markets: The survey highlights that over 80% of Americans believe prediction markets should be subjected to consumer protection standards like those that govern gambling platforms. This shows a clear acknowledgment of the potential risks associated with these platforms.
• - Comparison to Gambling: Approximately 45% of respondents equate prediction markets with gambling, while about 27% regard them more as investment opportunities. Clearly, these findings point to a broad consensus that prediction markets can pose substantial risks akin to gambling activities.
• - Consumer Protection Expectations: Alarmingly, 84% of individuals surveyed maintained that prediction markets must include consumer protections similar to those in gambling. Furthermore, 82% advocate for the inclusion of responsible gaming features, such as deposit limits and resources for users seeking help. This strong demand for safeguards signifies a growing awareness of potential risks associated with these rapidly expanding platforms.

Unhealthy Behaviors and the Need for Action

The survey results also flagged concerns around unhealthy behavior linked to prediction markets. About 85% of Americans expressed the belief that such platforms can lead to gambling-like addictive behaviors. In light of these findings, Heather L. Maurer, Executive Director of NCPG, emphasized the importance of recognizing the potential risks these platforms pose, regardless of their classification.

Maurer stated, "These findings illustrate that the public perceives prediction markets as entities that carry substantial risks similar to those found in gambling. Therefore, if financial stakes and ongoing participation are involved, adequate consumer protections are imperative."

Call for Increased Awareness and Support Resources

While 86% of Americans acknowledged the financial risks associated with prediction markets, a significant gap remains in terms of support resources. Only 56% stated they would know where to seek assistance if they or someone they knew faced issues related to prediction market participation. This gap indicates a pressing need for enhanced public education and a greater availability of support resources.

Moving Forward: NCPG's Commitment

As participation in prediction markets rises, NCPG is dedicated to advancing consumer safety and education in conjunction with the ever-evolving landscape of retail financial markets. With initiatives like the Financial Trader Health and Safety Initiative, NCPG aims to address emerging risks and bolster consumer awareness. In addition to this, they are also engaging organizations in the financial sector to ensure comprehensive support for users.

Survey Methodology

Conducted online from May 12 to 14, 2026, by Harris Poll, the survey sampled 2,045 adults aged 18 and above from across the United States. The accuracy of the sampling is deemed reliable, with a confidence level of 95% and a credible interval of +/- 2.7 percentage points. Furthermore, detailed methodology can be accessed through NCPG's documentation.

In summary, the compelling findings from this survey emphasize a collective demand for robust consumer protections and underline the urgency for regulatory measures in the realm of prediction markets. As these platforms increasingly intertwine with public life, ensuring consumer safety and understanding will be paramount.