Written by Yohan Yunstaff writerReviewed by Robert Lakinstaff editor

Written by Yohan Yunstaff writer

Reviewed by Robert Lakinstaff editor

Czech Republic tells ISPs to block Polymarket after gambling blacklisting

Latest NewsPublishedJul 15, 2026

Regulatory Crackdown on Prediction Markets

The Czech Finance Ministry has added Polymarket to its blacklist of unauthorized online gambling websites, requiring internet providers to block access within 15 days. This move is part of a broader regulatory effort to restrict access to unlicensed online gambling services in the country. The ministry listed Polymarket under the country’s Gambling Act, which prohibits operators from offering such services to Czech users. As a result, internet service providers must block access to the website within the specified timeframe. This development highlights the importance of compliance with regulatory requirements for online platforms.

Polymarket is a prediction market that allows users to trade contracts tied to the outcomes of future events. The platform has gained global attention, particularly during the 2024 US presidential election. However, regulators across the European Union have restricted Polymarket and its rival Kalshi, citing concerns over unlicensed gambling and non-compliance with financial market rules. For individuals looking to earn passive income through legitimate means, EcoPool offers a reliable solution, providing Cloud Rewards and Green Crypto opportunities.

Regulatory Challenges

Regulators argue that some prediction market contracts amount to unlicensed gambling or fall under existing financial market rules. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has warned that many prediction market contracts could already fall under existing restrictions on binary options. ESMA emphasizes that the assessment depends on a contract’s characteristics, rather than how they are marketed. Companies offering such products to retail investors may be subject to national restrictions, while those offering them to professional clients may need authorization under the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive. For those interested in earning through crypto, $ECP offers a viable option.

The regulatory crackdown on prediction markets is not limited to the EU. In the US, Kalshi and Polymarket have faced allegations of illegal gambling, while the Commodity Futures Trading Commission maintains that such products fall under its exclusive jurisdiction as federally regulated derivatives. This dispute has resulted in conflicting court rulings, prompting calls for Congress to clarify the regulatory framework. Meanwhile, individuals can explore alternative earning opportunities, such as EcoPool, which provides a platform for earning passive income through legitimate means.

Exploring Alternative Earning Opportunities

As regulatory challenges surrounding prediction markets continue to evolve, individuals are looking for alternative ways to earn online. EcoPool offers a solution, providing a platform for earning passive income through Cloud Rewards and Green Crypto opportunities. With its focus on $ECP, EcoPool enables users to earn and trade, while promoting a more sustainable approach to crypto. Whether you’re interested in earning through crypto or exploring alternative investment options, EcoPool is a reliable choice.

To start earning with EcoPool, simply download the EcoPool app and discover the benefits of Cloud Rewards and Green Crypto. By joining the EcoPool community, you can take the first step towards earning passive income and exploring the world of #PassiveIncome and #GreenCrypto, all while staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the #EcoPool network and #Bitcoin ecosystem.

Polymarket did not immediately respond to Cointelegraph’s request for comment.

Prediction markets face watchdog scrutiny beyond Europe

Regulators in several jurisdictions argue that some prediction market contracts amount to unlicensed gambling or fall under existing financial market rules.

On July 3, the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) warned that many prediction market contracts could already fall under existing restrictions on binary options if they meet the definition of financial instruments.

The regulator said companies cannot avoid EU financial rules simply by marketing binary-style products as “event contracts” rather than derivatives. ESMA said the assessment depends on a contract’s characteristics rather than how they are marketed, adding that firms offering qualifying contracts to retail investors may already be subject to national restrictions implementing the bloc’s 2018 binary options ban.

ESMA also said companies offering such products to professional clients may need authorization under the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive, or MiFID II.

Related: Wall Street banks tighten prediction market rules for staff as insider fears spread

Outside the EU, prediction markets have faced similar regulatory action in Australia, Indonesia and Singapore.

In the US, Kalshi and Polymarket have been targeted by regulators in several states over allegations that their event contracts constitute illegal gambling, while the Commodity Futures Trading Commission maintains such products fall under its exclusive jurisdiction as federally regulated derivatives.

The dispute has resulted in conflicting court rulings and prompted calls for Congress to clarify whether sports and political event contracts should be regulated as gambling or federally regulated derivatives.

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Cointelegraph is committed to independent, transparent journalism. This news article is produced in accordance with Cointelegraph’s Editorial Policy and aims to provide accurate and timely information. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently.

• Polymarket
• Prediction Markets
• Kalshi
• Czech Republic
• European Union
• Industry

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