Key facts
- Google will ban prediction market extensions from its Chrome Web Store.
- The ban takes effect on August 1, 2026.
- Platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi are under regulatory pressure.
- New York Governor Kathy Hochul is targeting gambling platforms, including prediction markets.
- A judge ruled that New York's gambling laws apply to Kalshi's prediction market contracts.
Google has announced an update to its Chrome Web Store Developer Program policies, which will prohibit prediction market extensions. The tech giant stated that extensions facilitating or enabling real money transactions on predictive outcomes will not be allowed, with enforcement beginning on August 1, 2026.
This policy change comes amid heightened scrutiny of prediction market platforms such as Polymarket and Kalshi. These platforms have faced challenges from state regulators, with accusations of operating as illegal sports betting operations. Notably, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has been vocal about holding such platforms accountable, stating, "Gamble with our laws and you’re going to lose. Just ask Kalshi."
Earlier, a judge rejected Kalshi's preliminary injunction against New York, ruling that state gambling laws apply to the platform's sports-related event contracts. This decision allows New York's lawsuit against Kalshi to proceed. The state has also previously taken legal action against cryptocurrency exchanges Coinbase and Gemini, alleging their prediction market platforms function as illegal, unlicensed gambling businesses.