France’s decision to block access to Polymarket has opened a new chapter in the growing dispute over prediction markets across Europe. The blockchain-based platform plans to contest the regulator’s order through French courts, arguing the restriction extends beyond trading activities.
Although the company stopped allowing French users to place bets in late 2024, it continued providing market data and event probabilities. Consequently, the dispute now centers on whether informational access alone should face the same regulatory treatment as gambling services.
Regulatory Clash Intensifies
French gaming regulator ANJ instructed internet providers to block Polymarket before the FIFA World Cup final. Officials argued the platform continued promoting unauthorized betting by displaying live market odds.
Additionally, regulators warned certain prediction markets could expose consumers to financial risks and potential market manipulation. Despite trading restrictions, French visitors still accessed the platform in large numbers during June, highlighting continued public interest in prediction-based information.
Prediction Markets Face Wider Scrutiny
Polymarket maintains many visitors use its platform to monitor event probabilities instead of placing wagers. However, regulators across Europe and several U.S. states continue questioning whether prediction markets resemble gambling products.
Meanwhile, companies including Robinhood and Coinbase increasingly view prediction markets as an important business opportunity. Hence, the French case could shape future oversight as governments balance innovation, consumer protection, and expanding demand for event-based financial markets.
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