Blockchain.com Seeks CFTC Licenses for U.S. Prediction Markets
- Blockchain.com has applied for two licenses from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to offer prediction markets and crypto derivatives in the U.S.
- The company aims to become a designated contract market (DCM) and a futures commission merchant (FCM), enabling it to operate a regulated futures exchange and provide brokerage services.
- Blockchain.com already offers prediction markets through its partnership with Polymarket and perpetual futures trading via Hyperliquid for international customers.
- CEO Peter Smith expressed the goal of integrating digital asset management, derivatives trading, and real-world event wagering on one platform.
- The CFTC has approved six new exchanges this year, amid regulatory uncertainty over prediction markets due to federal-state jurisdictional disputes.
Blockchain.com’s move aligns with other companies like Coinbase and Crypto.com expanding into event-based trading, challenging established operators such as Kalshi and Polymarket. Regulatory challenges persist, especially concerning sports-related contracts that may conflict with state gambling laws.
