Robinhood (HOOD) Plans Global Prediction Markets Expansion After US Launch: Bloomberg Report

Popular trading platform Robinhood (HOOD) is preparing to expand its prediction markets product globally following its successful U.S. debut, according to a Bloomberg report. The platform allows traders to buy and sell contracts based on future outcomes of real-world events. Robinhood executives identified significant international demand, particularly from European and UK markets, where users have shown strong interest in this innovative trading format. JB Mackenzie, Vice President of Futures and International at Robinhood, emphasized the company's commitment to regulatory compliance across all jurisdictions, confirming ongoing discussions with international regulators including the UK's Financial Conduct Authority. This expansion follows Robinhood's recent partnership with CFTC-regulated platform Kalshi, enabling users to speculate on political elections, economic data releases, and geopolitical developments. The prediction market sector has experienced substantial growth in 2024, driven partly by crypto-native platforms like Polymarket, which reportedly achieved a $9 billion valuation while processing billions in wagers, primarily on U.S. presidential election outcomes. Robinhood's entry into global prediction markets could significantly broaden access to event-based trading for mainstream investors worldwide.