Japan is seeing the rise of homegrown prediction market platforms that let users wager on real-world events and win points convertible into gift cards, skirting the country's strict anti-gambling laws. The largest, seven-month-old Miraima, has amassed close to 1 million monthly users since its November debut, while rival Poyp launched in March and mobile gaming developer Gumi Inc. rolled out a point-based prediction game in June. Unlike global platforms Polymarket and Kalshi, no money changes hands; the entire system is built on non-monetary virtual tokens that can later be swapped for gift coupons or retail loyalty points, a workaround similar to the one used by Japan's $100 billion pachinko industry. Miraima founder Keita Adachi says the platform is now in the black thanks to commissions from advertisements and app downloads, though margins remain razor thin. While the apps are still in their infancy, their gamified pursuit of point-to-voucher rewards has fueled rapid growth, particularly among men in their 20s, and some lawyers warn they could face scrutiny under sweepstakes regulations.
Apple Inc.
Amazon.com Incgumi, Inc.Gumi launched a prediction game; potential regulatory scrutiny mentioned but no direct impact yet.
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Japan Exchange Group, Inc.