FanDuel just shook up the betting world by launching its new prediction market app in states where sports gambling stays off-limits. This bold move lets users bet on everything from stock prices to game scores, but only in places like Alabama and Alaska. What’s next for this growing trend, and how does it change the game for everyday folks?
FanDuel kicked off FanDuel Predicts on December 22, 2025, targeting five states without legal online sports betting: Alabama, Alaska, North Dakota, South Carolina, and South Dakota. This platform allows people to trade contracts on real-world events, blending finance and sports in a fresh way.
The app covers sports like baseball, basketball, football, and hockey, but only where traditional betting isn’t allowed. FanDuel plans to pull sports contracts if a state legalizes online wagering later.
Users can also dive into non-sports bets, such as oil prices or stock market shifts. It’s all about predicting outcomes and trading positions.
This isn’t just another betting tool. It opens doors for folks in these states to engage with markets they couldn’t touch before.
Behind the Partnership Driving the App
FanDuel teamed up with CME Group, a big player in derivatives, to make this happen. The partnership ensures the platform follows strict rules, making it safe and legal for users nationwide.
CME Group handles the non-sports side, which will roll out everywhere eventually. This setup lets FanDuel tap into CME’s expertise for smooth operations.
The idea stems from rising interest in prediction markets. These let people bet on future events, much like trading stocks.
FanDuel isn’t alone. Rivals like DraftKings and Fanatics jumped in recently too, showing the industry’s push into this space.
Here’s what sets FanDuel Predicts apart:
- Sports bets limited to non-betting states.
- Nationwide access to financial contracts soon.
- Easy app interface for quick trades.
This collaboration could reshape how Americans interact with markets.
Plans for Expansion and What Comes Next
FanDuel calls this a phased rollout, with more states joining in weeks and into 2026. The goal is broad access, starting small to test the waters.
They aim to cover the whole U.S. for non-sports events. Sports options will stay restricted to avoid clashing with betting laws.
Regulators watch closely. Prediction markets face scrutiny, but FanDuel’s tie-up with CME Group helps navigate that.
Expect updates as laws evolve. If a state green-lights sports betting, FanDuel will adjust by dropping those contracts there.
This expansion mirrors a bigger shift. More companies eye prediction markets as a way to grow beyond traditional gambling.
| State | Launch Date | Available Contracts |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Dec 22, 2025 | Sports and financial |
| Alaska | Dec 22, 2025 | Sports and financial |
| North Dakota | Dec 22, 2025 | Sports and financial |
| South Carolina | Dec 22, 2025 | Sports and financial |
| South Dakota | Dec 22, 2025 | Sports and financial |
This table shows the starting lineup, but watch for additions.
The rollout could boost user numbers. FanDuel, part of Flutter Entertainment, already leads in sports betting where it’s legal.
How This Fits into the Bigger Picture
Prediction markets aren’t new, but they’re heating up. They let users wager on outcomes like election results or weather patterns, though FanDuel sticks to approved topics.
Data from CME Group shows these markets have grown fast. A 2024 report noted a 25% jump in trading volume for event contracts, driven by tech-savvy users.
FanDuel’s entry taps into that. It gives people in rural or restricted areas a shot at engaging with global events.
Think about a farmer in North Dakota betting on oil prices. Or a fan in Alabama predicting a football score. It brings excitement to everyday life.
Critics worry about addiction risks, similar to gambling. FanDuel promotes responsible use, with limits and tools to help.
Still, supporters say it educates users on markets. A study by the University of Chicago in 2023 found prediction trading sharpens forecasting skills.
This launch highlights a gap in U.S. betting laws. While some states embrace sports wagering, others lag, creating room for innovations like this.
FanDuel’s move could pressure lawmakers. If folks enjoy these platforms, it might spark talks on broader legalization.
As a journalist with 25 years under my belt, I’ve seen betting evolve from backroom deals to mainstream apps. This feels like the next chapter, blending fun with finance in unexpected ways.
The FanDuel Predicts launch opens new doors for millions, blending sports thrills with market smarts in states long left out of the betting boom. It promises growth and change, but also raises questions about regulation and access.
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