Gen Z Is Betting Big on Prediction Markets—Literally
A recent survey of over 3,000 U.S. consumers finds 31% believe prediction markets will grow in cultural importance, with strong generational differences: 17% of Gen Z and Millennials are aware of platforms like Polymarket (versus 4% for older generations), and similar disparities exist for Kalshi. Younger Americans are adopting these platforms amid surging industry growth—Kalshi recently raised $1 billion at an $11 billion valuation, and Intercontinental Exchange invested $2 billion in Polymarket, bringing their combined valuations to $20 billion. Weekly trading volumes reach up to $2.3 billion for Kalshi and $1.7 billion for Polymarket. Google searches and trading activity remain high, especially after the regulatory environment shifted to a more permissive stance, with federal approvals and recent CFTC decisions boosting the space. Younger Americans appear undeterred by legal battles, showing nearly equal interest in prediction markets and sports betting. With events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, a third of young Americans see prediction markets as the future of finance.
