A recent survey conducted by YouGov for the American Gaming Association (AGA) has revealed that a significant majority of US voters view sports event contracts as gambling rather than financial instruments. Among 2,025 registered voters surveyed, 85% categorized contracts from platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket as similar to sportsbook bets.
The survey highlighted growing public concern regarding the positioning and regulation of prediction markets. Many respondents indicated that these platforms are exploiting regulatory loopholes, with approximately 70% expressing the need for stricter oversight. Moreover, 69% of participants felt that residents in each state should have a say in whether such contracts are offered locally.
On licensing, the survey showed strong support for regulatory compliance, with 84% stating that companies offering sports event contracts should obtain local sportsbook licenses. Even among active sports bettors, 69% agreed on the necessity of licensing, indicating that regular players recognize the regulatory gap.
The survey also addressed oversight responsibilities, finding that 65% of respondents favored state and tribal regulators over federal authorities like the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. This underscores a broader sentiment that regulation of sports betting should remain primarily at the state level.
Additionally, the public expects gambling operators to provide tools for responsible play. Around 64% said regulators and companies have a duty to ensure safeguards are available to consumers.
AGA President and CEO Bill Miller emphasized that the findings reflect a clear public consensus: sports event contracts represent a form of gambling, and current oversight must prevent these markets from functioning as unlicensed sportsbooks. The survey results are expected to influence lawmakers, regulators, and operators as they navigate the regulatory landscape for prediction markets in the United States.
