NBA aligns with CFTC, Kalshi and Polymarket on prediction markets
CIE News ·
Based on reporting by CoinDesk; not yet independently confirmed.
The NBA entered a prediction markets agreement with the CFTC and partnered with Kalshi and Polymarket, adopting data sharing and trading restrictions while the NFL opposes the sector.
The National Basketball Association entered into a prediction markets agreement with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and established partnerships with platforms Kalshi and Polymarket, CoinDesk reported on October 26, 2026. The move follows similar arrangements made by Major League Baseball and the National Hockey League, designating the platforms as preferred exchanges while the National Football League continues to oppose federal prediction market structures.
Under a data-sharing memorandum of understanding with the CFTC, the NBA and Kalshi will share integrity data, report suspicious trading activity, and cooperate during investigations, Kalshi stated. The framework restricts permissible markets and prohibits NBA league and team personnel from trading the association's event contracts to prevent insider trading and manipulation.
The regulatory pact comes amid a wider legal conflict between prediction market operators and state authorities over gambling regulations, according to CoinDesk. While the NFL has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene on behalf of state gaming oversight, CFTC Chairman Mike Selig described the NBA's move as a step toward safeguarding markets from insider trading and fraud.
Key facts
- NBA partners with Kalshi, Polymarket
- CFTC data-sharing MOU signed
- League personnel trading barred
- NFL opposes federal framework