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DraftKings has launched its Predictions platform across 38 states plus Washington D.C., entering the prediction markets sector with one of the broadest operational footprints in the emerging space.
Platform Launch Details
The DraftKings Predictions platform went live Friday as a standalone app and web product, allowing users to trade contracts tied to future events. The platform operates under Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) regulation and launched in partnership with derivatives exchange CME Group. Integration with Railbird Exchange, a DraftKings-owned entity, is scheduled for the coming months.
The rollout features a tiered access model. Full sports event contracts are available in 17 states, including California, Texas, Florida, and Georgia. An additional 21 states plus Washington D.C. offer access to non-sports prediction contracts covering financial indicators, entertainment outcomes, and pop culture events. The platform remains unavailable in 12 states.
The geographical split reflects strategic navigation of regulatory boundaries. Several states that permit the DraftKings mobile sportsbook do not allow sports-based event contracts within the Predictions product.
Executive Statement
“DraftKings Predictions is a significant milestone and reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering products that tap into the passion of our customers,”
We will create an unparalleled customer experience, leveraging key strategic relationships like ESPN and NBCUniversal to provide an authentic, real-time product that moves at the speed of sports. Along with our operational footprint, marketing and analytics infrastructure and advanced in-house technology, we believe we are uniquely positioned to lead this space over the long term.”
Competitive Landscape
The DraftKings entry intensifies competition in the US prediction markets sector. Kalshi, Polymarket, Robinhood, and Crypto.com currently operate prediction market products. Gaming operators Fanatics, Underdog, and PrizePicks have also launched event-driven offerings beyond traditional wagering formats.
FanDuel, DraftKings’ primary competitor in daily fantasy sports and sports betting, is preparing to launch its own prediction market platform within days. The rapid entry of multiple operators indicates significant industry interest in prediction markets as a product category, despite ongoing regulatory uncertainty surrounding event contract trading in the United States.
The platform’s design positions prediction markets alongside DraftKings’ existing sportsbook and fantasy sports products, integrating event contracts into the company’s broader gaming ecosystem.
Source: DraftKings
