Prediction markets now account for more than a quarter of all World Cup sports betting volume, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The figure — 27% — marks a significant shift in how fans are wagering on the tournament, with platforms like Kalshi and Rothera driving the growth.
Kalshi's $40 billion in bets
Kalshi, a regulated prediction market, has processed $40 billion in bets overall. That volume spans a range of event contracts, but the World Cup has been a major driver. The company's platform allows users to trade yes-or-no contracts on outcomes like match winners and goal totals, drawing in both casual bettors and more sophisticated traders.
Rothera's 86% daily surge
Rothera, another prediction market operator, saw its daily volume spike 86% during the World Cup period. The jump suggests that the tournament's high-profile matches and round-the-clock schedule are pulling in users who might otherwise stick to traditional sportsbooks or fantasy games.
Bloomberg's report did not break out exact dollar figures for the World Cup alone, but the 27% share indicates that prediction markets are no longer a niche corner of the betting world. Traditional sportsbooks still hold the majority of volume, but the gap is narrowing faster than many expected.
Regulators have taken notice. Prediction markets operate under different rules than conventional sports betting in many jurisdictions, and the surge in World Cup action could prompt renewed scrutiny. For now, though, the platforms are riding a wave of user interest that shows no sign of slowing.
