Czech Republic Blocks Kalshi Over Unlicensed Gambling

The Czech government has moved to restrict access to Kalshi, giving internet service providers less than two weeks to block the platform.

The Ministry of Finance announced on 30 September that the US‑based prediction markets operator had been added to the country’s list of unauthorised gambling providers. Under Czech law, ISPs must act within 15 days of such a notice, which means Kalshi will be inaccessible to users in the country from 15 October 2026.

This decision comes only months after a similar prohibition order was issued against Polymarket, Kalshi’s main rival. Authorities argue that prediction markets are not investment tools but gambling offers, a stance shared by regulators in Belgium, France, Romania, Spain, and Germany. 

Prediction market operators still harboring Europe dreams

Despite mounting restrictions, prediction market platforms continue to push for a foothold in Europe. Polymarket has been at the center of this effort, presenting itself not as a gambling operator but as a financial services company.

Over recent months, its executives and legal team have met regulators in London, Brussels, and other EU capitals, pressing the case that its contracts should be treated under financial services law rather than fragmented gambling rules applied country by country. 

The company has gone further by engaging directly with the European Securities and Markets Authority and the European Commission, while also holding talks with regulators in individual member states. 

Industry groups have also become part of its strategy, with the platform joining Blockchain For Europe and opening discussions with other associations to strengthen its lobbying power. 

Pushback remains strong. The FCA has hinted at reviewing rules on retail investor access but continues to argue that binary options carry gambling‑like risks and high potential for consumer harm. ESMA has shown little interest in loosening restrictions, warning recently that prediction markets are vulnerable to insider trading.

Meanwhile, Kalshi has also signaled its interest in Europe, with its Chief Risk Officer telling an audience at SBC Lisbon that the company “would love to expand in Europe.”

https://www.igamingtoday.com/czech-republic-blocks-kalshi-over-unlicensed-gambling/