Gaming Industry Warns Prediction Markets Have Cost States Over $1 Billion in Gambling Taxes

The rapid expansion of prediction markets has sparked a fresh dispute between gambling operators and financial regulators across the United States. Casino industry leaders now argue that states continue losing major tax revenue as consumers shift toward prediction-based platforms. Consequently, lawmakers and regulators face mounting pressure to define how these markets should operate under federal and state laws.

The American Gaming Association estimates that states and tribal governments have already lost more than $1 billion in potential tax collections. Additionally, the group claims the trend threatens funding tied to schools, infrastructure, and local development programs. Industry officials believe the losses could grow sharply if prediction markets continue expanding nationwide without stricter oversight.

Casino Industry Pushes Back

American Gaming Association President Bill Miller recently criticized prediction market operators during a CNBC appearance. He argued that many sports-related contracts closely resemble traditional sports betting products. However, these platforms avoid the same regulatory systems that govern sportsbooks.

Miller also warned that tribal casinos could face additional financial strain from the growing competition. Many Native American gaming operations depend heavily on sports wagering revenue. Hence, weaker earnings could reduce funding for tribal services and economic programs.

Besides tax concerns, casino operators argue that prediction platforms receive an unfair advantage. Traditional sportsbooks must comply with extensive licensing rules, consumer protections, and state taxes. Prediction markets, however, often operate under federal commodities regulations instead.

The disagreement centers on whether sports event contracts qualify as financial derivatives or gambling products. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission currently treats many contracts as part of its derivatives authority. Several states strongly disagree with that interpretation and have launched legal challenges against prediction market companies.

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Federal Oversight Debate Intensifies

The legal fight has intensified as both federal and state regulators defend competing jurisdictions. Some states claim prediction platforms violate local gambling laws by offering sports-related contracts to residents. Meanwhile, the CFTC argues states cannot interfere with federally regulated financial markets.

President Donald Trump recently supported preserving the CFTC’s authority over prediction markets. Additionally, the Office of Management and Budget continues reviewing proposals involving expanded federal oversight for the sector.

Prediction market companies reject comparisons to sportsbooks and casinos. They argue their platforms provide broader economic value through political, financial, and macroeconomic forecasting tools. Supporters also claim these markets encourage information sharing and improve price discovery.

Prediction Platforms Reject Revenue Claims

Industry-backed groups representing companies like Kalshi, Coinbase, and Robinhood challenged the casino industry’s revenue estimates this week. They questioned the calculations and argued that traditional gaming companies remain financially strong despite rising competition.

Kalshi spokesperson Elisabeth Diana dismissed the claims as exaggerated and misleading. She pointed to record gaming industry revenue last year as evidence that casinos continue thriving. Moreover, she argued consumers increasingly prefer prediction markets because they offer greater transparency and lower risks.

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