
Crypto Regulation · Gambling Laws · Lawsuit · Prediction Markets
New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a lawsuit against Coinbase and Gemini's prediction market operations, alleging they violate state laws against illegal gambling by operating without required New York State Gaming Commission licenses.
The AG asserts that event contracts on these platforms are "quintessentially gambling" because outcomes are typically outside bettors’ control or amount to games of chance. In response, Coinbase's Chief Legal Officer, Paul Grewal, stated the company will continue to advocate for federal oversight of these markets.
This legal action occurs as prediction markets experience a surge in popularity, with Polymarket reportedly aiming for a $400 million raise at a $15 billion valuation, and Kalshi recently securing $1 billion at a $22 billion valuation, indicating significant investor interest and sector expansion.