Prediction markets are all the rage right now, but Europe lacks any regulated platforms for the new gambling alternative. Malta may be changing that, as the country explores introducing prediction markets to its citizens.
Depending on the jurisdiction worldwide, prediction markets are classified as gambling products or financial instruments. This means that their legal status can vary substantially by region, but Malta looks to be leading the way with the launch of a dedicated regulatory framework.
We have previously looked at
whether prediction markets are a threat to sports betting, and while there is not a concrete answer yet, if Malta does allow prediction markets then the Mediterranean country — an iGaming hub — could see plenty of platforms ready to offer markets.
Malta actively exploring the introduction of regulated prediction markets
Image credit: Canva
Maltese government officials have revealed their intention to set up a formal legal framework for prediction markets, so they can be introduced in Malta. Economy Minister Silvio Schembri is the most vocal advocate.
He has talked about how prediction markets have gained massive momentum and stated that they have an opportunity for innovation. This is at a time that the niche is booming, with Polymarket and Kalshi the leading names; the former has
just received $600m in investment
from Intercontinental Exchange.
Given this will be the first framework of its kind in Europe, the continent’s countries will be paying special attention to how things go in Malta. Though Malta’s stance suggests that a prediction market framework will be imminent, there is not yet a clear timeline but the
growing global trend of Prediction Markets
means that this could see further developments in 2026.
Given the current lack of a unified European framework on prediction markets and their designation under
gambling rules, the ultimate aim is to bring the sector into a clear regulatory structure, which would likely include a licensing regime.
How this move will affect the market in Malta
The potential for prediction markets to become regulated in Malta could be a positive development. Currently, users in the country may be accessing offshore markets; as is also the case with casinos such as
Bitcoin betting sites, this can bring with it risks around fairness and financial security.
This proposal would remove the grey area
and, while exact proposals have not yet been announced by the Maltese government, a regulated framework would likely bring with it a range of consumer protections and safeguards. This could include measures such as age verification, loss limits and responsible gambling tools as a condition for receiving a license.
Licensed betting operators in the country would also likely have the opportunity to expand into offering prediction markets, with political and geopolitical events currently among the most common categories.
Header image credit: Kalshi
Khizar Mundia
Khizar Mundia has been playing video games for as long as he can recall. Things have come a long way since the many days he spent playing the original NES, though. He now covers a variety of competitive games and esports, as well as the world of streaming, ranging from Twitch to Kick. If it’s of interest to gamers, it’s of interest to Khizar.
Read Also
News
Study: What is your late-night gaming session costing your boss?
Conn Mc Gillion
Hopping on a game with friends can keep most players up far past their regular bedtime. So much so, that it can apparently affect your boss and colleagues as well as yourself. Win.gg’s latest study shows that nearly half of U.S. gamers feel less productive at work the day after a late-night gaming session, with an average productivity slump of 2 hours. 49% of employed U.S. gamers feel less productive …
Slots
How To Play CCTV Rush Hour Game by 155.io
Simon Day
If you have your finger on the pulse of gaming, then you will know the excitement about the new Rush Hour betting game from Studio 155. This unusual and innovative game has garnered a keen following as it has expanded across a number of online casinos. It is quite different to your standard gambling options on sites and that has piqued the interest of many players seeking something new and …
News
New York sues game developer Valve, alleges gambling promotion
Khizar Mundia
The US state of New York has filed a lawsuit against Valve Corporation, claiming as it sues the industry giant that an in-game mechanic that the developer uses and promotes in multiple popular titles is too similar to gambling. The lawsuit specifically targets loot boxes, an in-game mechanic that players unlock using real-life money for a chance to win in-game prizes. The rewards are sought after and traded, often using …
News
As MrBeast collaborates with Super Group, talks spark over future
Khizar Mundia
Famed content creator James “MrBeast” Donaldson is collaborating with Super Group, the parent company behind popular betting platform Betway, sparking speculation about his potentially being further linked to the betting and gambling industry moving forward. MrBeast is one of the largest streamers and influencers in the world, known for his over-the-top challenges and big-money charity initiatives. In 2025, MrBeast was notably seen setting a donation record for the Guinness World …
Slots
Rush Hour CCTV Game: How Does It Compare to Traditional Casino Games?
Simon Day
Rush hour the annoying traffic phenomenon becomes an exciting new playing experience thanks to Rush Hour CCTV from 155.io. This brand new online betting game allows players to predict real-world traffic to win up to 18x their bet. In this guide, we’ll look at how Rush Hour CCTV compares to other traditional casino games such as slots and card and dice games. We’ll also point you towards our three top …
News
Pennsylvania posts huge gambling revenue for January 2026
Khizar Mundia
Pennsylvania’s gambling industry has gotten the year 2026 off to a strong start, with the US state reporting better than a 10% year-over-year growth in revenue for January 2026 compared to the same month in 2025. Pennsylvania is one of the leading regulated gambling markets in the United States of America, with the state consistently generating hundreds of millions in betting tax revenues. The state offers several gaming options for …
News
Gambling operators must adapt to paid partnership changes on X
Khizar Mundia
Paid partnerships on X have had great potential value for gambling operators in their marketing and advertising efforts, but the platform’s new changes will require betting operators to adjust their approach to remain in compliance. News has been circulating that social media giant X has made substantial changes to its paid partnerships requirements, notably targeting gambling ads in the process. These ads are a great way for gambling marketers to …