Underdog Exits Fantasy Sports in Seven States as Prediction Markets Take Over

RegulationM&A · Partnership
โดย ccn.com·US·Read original
Summary · why it matters

Underdog is surrendering its fantasy sports licenses in seven US states after regulators ruled it could not operate both its fantasy products and its CFTC-regulated prediction markets, with the company choosing the latter. Founder and CEO Jeremy Levine said the states' legal position forced a choice, and Underdog opted to keep its prediction business, meaning new draft entries will cease in those states while existing contests continue. Investor documents from IG Group, which agreed to acquire Underdog for up to approximately $1.3 billion on July 30, reveal that prediction markets accounted for only 14% of Underdog's handle in 2025 but are projected to reach 54% by June 2026 and approximately 99% in the longer term, leaving legacy fantasy at just 1%. IG also sees a broader opportunity, noting that 46% of Underdog customers have traded crypto and 58% have traded individual stocks, describing a significant cross-sell opportunity. The move comes amid regulatory disputes over prediction markets, with IG acknowledging challenges in 16 states, but Underdog has already signaled which side of its business it will prioritize.

Impact on stocks 1

Digital Finance & Tokenization · 1 stocks
IG Group Holdings PLC
IGG
▲ PositiveCapitalrelevance

IG Group's acquisition of Underdog is highlighted, with prediction markets expected to grow to 99% of handle, boosting IG's growth prospects.

Theme Impact 1

Off-coverage companies 1

UnderdogPrivate▼ Negative
Regulationrelevance

Underdog must exit fantasy sports in seven states due to regulatory restrictions, prioritizing prediction markets over fantasy.

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