A new report from Bernstein forecasts that the 2026 FIFA World Cup could pump billions of dollars into prediction markets. The research firm also identified Coinbase and Robinhood as two platforms likely to ride that wave of new users.
What prediction markets stand to gain
Prediction markets let users bet on the outcome of future events — elections, sports results, even weather. The World Cup, with its global audience, represents a massive opportunity. Bernstein’s analysis suggests the tournament could generate billions in trading volume, drawing in both casual fans and serious bettors. The firm didn't specify a precise dollar figure, but called the potential surge “significant.”
Why Coinbase and Robinhood are in the spotlight
Bernstein highlighted Coinbase and Robinhood as firms “positioned to capture a wave of new users” from that surge. Coinbase, a major crypto exchange, already offers some event-based contracts. Robinhood, known for its easy-to-use stock and crypto trading app, has a large user base that could be converted to prediction market participants. The report notes that both companies have the infrastructure and regulatory experience needed to scale quickly if demand spikes.
The 2026 tournament is still years away, but the analysis suggests platforms should start preparing now. Neither Coinbase nor Robinhood have announced specific plans tied to the World Cup, but Bernstein’s report argues the pieces are already in place for them to move fast.
