Matchbook, a prediction market platform, intends to launch its services in the United Kingdom early next year, confirmed by interim CEO Ronan McDonagh. The launch is slated for January 2026 and aims to test the company’s operations before expanding into the United States, where it holds a Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) license.
Matchbook plans to use its UK Gambling Commission license to deliver the new platform, featuring a binary yes-no outcome selection and probability percentages. The UK will focus on sports selections, with expectations to introduce sports event contracts in the US despite scrutiny at the state level. Experts foresee challenges from US gambling regulators against platforms like Kalshi persisting until the Supreme Court intervenes.
Though smaller in the UK market compared to competitors like Betfair, Smarkets, and Betdaq, Matchbook’s focus on prediction markets may provide a strategic advantage and gauge sports bettors and regulators’ reactions. Unlike Kalshi’s US operations, Matchbook will operate under a gambling license in the UK, reducing potential pushback.
As a betting exchange, Matchbook allows players to bet against each other and influence outcome probabilities. McDonagh, in a Bloomberg interview, explained that the yes-no prediction market platform would function similarly and hoped it would attract new interest. McDonagh is open to partnering with US companies to bolster Matchbook’s success and brand recognition, as mainstream sports betting companies like Fanatics, DraftKings, and FanDuel enter the space.
Confident in the US market, McDonagh concluded, “We’ve got strong market-making partners, liquidity, and a great product. We’ll be able to compete on day one in the US.”
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com