---
title: Fanatics Acquires Regulated Exchange to Expand Prediction Markets
url: >-
  https://www.cryptocatalyst.news/articles/2026-07-27-fanatics-acquires-regulated-exchange-to-expand-prediction-markets
canonical: >-
  https://www.cryptocatalyst.news/articles/2026-07-27-fanatics-acquires-regulated-exchange-to-expand-prediction-markets
date: '2026-07-27T21:14:13.567594+00:00'
category: general
tags:
  - fanatics
  - prediction-markets
  - sports
  - crypto
  - blockchain
source: CoinDesk
source_url: >-
  https://www.coindesk.com/markets/2026/07/27/fanatics-buys-regulated-exchange-in-bid-to-grow-prediction-markets-business
publisher: CryptoCatalyst
summary: >-
  Fanatics has bought a regulated exchange to build its own prediction market
  platform. This move comes as event-based trading grows in popularity across
  sports, finance, and crypto.
image: >-
  https://www.cryptocatalyst.news/images/articles/2026-07-27-fanatics-acquires-regulated-exchange-to-expand-prediction-markets.webp
generated_by: automated editorial pipeline
---
# Fanatics Acquires Regulated Exchange to Expand Prediction Markets

Fanatics has bought a regulated exchange to build its own prediction market platform. This move comes as event-based trading grows in popularity across sports, finance, and crypto. The deal gives Fanatics control over its trading infrastructure, allowing it to offer more customized and compliant prediction markets.

## Key takeaways

- Fanatics has acquired a regulated exchange to expand its prediction markets business.
- The deal allows Fanatics to offer more customized and compliant prediction markets.
- The global prediction markets industry is projected to reach $2.5 billion by 2028.
- Fanatics plans to launch new prediction markets in early 2027.
- The acquisition is part of a broader trend of traditional companies integrating blockchain and crypto technologies.

Fanatics, the sports merchandise giant, has acquired a regulated exchange to bolster its prediction markets business. The deal, announced today, positions Fanatics to capitalize on the growing trend of event-based trading across sports, finance, and crypto. By owning its own exchange, Fanatics can offer more tailored and compliant prediction markets, a rapidly expanding sector.

## What Are Prediction Markets?
Prediction markets allow users to trade contracts based on the outcome of future events, such as sports results, political elections, or financial indicators. These markets provide a way to hedge risks or speculate on outcomes. Fanatics' move into this space is part of a broader trend where traditional companies are integrating blockchain and crypto technologies into their business models.

## Why the Timing Matters
The acquisition comes at a time when prediction markets are gaining traction. The global prediction markets industry is projected to reach $2.5 billion by 2028, driven by increased interest in decentralized finance (DeFi) and the growing popularity of sports betting. By securing a regulated exchange, Fanatics can ensure compliance with financial regulations while offering a seamless user experience.

## What It Means for Users
For users, this acquisition could mean more options and better features in prediction markets. Fanatics plans to leverage its existing user base and partnerships with sports leagues to offer unique prediction markets. This could include markets for game outcomes, player performances, and other sports-related events. Additionally, the regulated exchange ensures that users can trade with confidence, knowing that their transactions are secure and compliant.

## What to Watch Next
Fanatics has not disclosed the financial terms of the deal, but the acquisition is expected to close by the end of the year. Users can expect to see new prediction markets launch in early 2027. The company has also hinted at potential partnerships with other sports and entertainment entities, which could further expand its offerings. For now, keep an eye on Fanatics' official announcements for updates on new markets and features.

## FAQ

### What are prediction markets?

Prediction markets are platforms where users can trade contracts based on the outcome of future events, such as sports results or financial indicators.

### Why did Fanatics buy a regulated exchange?

Fanatics acquired a regulated exchange to ensure compliance and offer a seamless user experience in its prediction markets.

### When will Fanatics launch new prediction markets?

Fanatics plans to launch new prediction markets in early 2027.

### How big is the prediction markets industry?

The global prediction markets industry is projected to reach $2.5 billion by 2028.

## Source

This article is a summary of reporting by [CoinDesk](https://www.coindesk.com/markets/2026/07/27/fanatics-buys-regulated-exchange-in-bid-to-grow-prediction-markets-business), written by an automated editorial pipeline. See https://www.cryptocatalyst.news/editorial-policy.

## How to cite

CryptoCatalyst.news, "Fanatics Acquires Regulated Exchange to Expand Prediction Markets", 2026-07-27, https://www.cryptocatalyst.news/articles/2026-07-27-fanatics-acquires-regulated-exchange-to-expand-prediction-markets