CFTC and NHL Partnership Signals Growing Oversight of Sports Prediction Markets

The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the National Hockey League (NHL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen oversight of sports-related prediction markets as trading activity in the sector continues to expand.

The agreement is designed to improve coordination and information sharing between both sides to protect the integrity of professional hockey and event-based contracts tied to NHL outcomes. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said maintaining trust in the sport remains a priority and added that the partnership strengthens existing systems used to monitor unusual activity and potential risks.

Growth of Sports Prediction Markets Draws Regulatory Attention

The move comes as prediction market platforms tied to sports and political outcomes continue gaining popularity. Earlier this year, the CFTC signed a similar agreement with Major League Baseball to help monitor integrity concerns linked to event contracts.

Under acting Chair Michael Selig, the CFTC has shifted its approach to prediction markets, moving away from earlier restrictions proposed under former leadership. Selig has repeatedly argued that the agency has exclusive authority over prediction markets, despite opposition from several U.S. states over gambling-related concerns.

CFTC Expands Legal Fight Over Prediction Market Oversight

The agency has also launched legal action against multiple states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Arizona, Connecticut, and New York, as it pushes to defend federal oversight of sports-based prediction contracts.