Internet service providers (ISPs) in the Czech Republic have been given 15 days to comply with a prohibition order issued against US prediction markets giant Kalshi. On September 30, the Ministry of Finance added the platform to its list of unauthorized gambling operators, meaning local users will lose conventional access by Thursday, October 15, 2026.
Crackdown on Prediction Markets
The move follows a similar ban imposed on Kalshi’s chief rival, Polymarket, back in July. Czech authorities maintain that prediction markets constitute betting offers disguised as investment tools, a stance shared by regulators in France, Belgium, Spain, and Germany.
The crackdown was brought forward by the Czech Institute for Gambling Regulation (IPRH), which represents over 90% of the country’s regulated sector.
Jan Řehola, IPRH Director, stated:
“When Polymarket was added to the list, we said that it was an important precedent, not the end of the matter. The inclusion of Kalshi shows that this approach is now being reflected in practice.”
While prediction platforms like Kalshi operate federally under the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in the US as financial instruments, European regulators generally classify them as gambling products requiring local licenses. Aside from bans, alternative frameworks remain rare in Europe, though Gibraltar has successfully introduced dedicated regulation for prediction markets.
Global Ambitions vs. Regional Resistance
Despite regulatory hostility across Europe, prediction markets continue to surge globally. Kalshi recorded approximately $60 billion in trading volume last month and is seeking capital to target a $40 billion valuation. Speaking at SBC Summit Lisbon, Kalshi Chief Risk Officer Udesh Jha affirmed that the company remains keen to expand in Europe. However, balancing massive consumer demand with strict local compliance remains a significant hurdle for operators entering the region.
