Prediction markets and sports betting apps are luring in teens. Here’s why experts are concerned

# Prediction Markets Are Using Social Media to Attract Teenagers to Betting Apps Prediction market platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket are marketing themselves to young people on Instagram and other social media by using trendy language and making betting on real-world events look like a fun, casual game rather than serious gambling. The problem: research shows that the vast majority of users (69%) actually lose money on these platforms, yet companies can legally accept customers as young as 18—three years younger than the legal gambling age in most states. Experts worry this creates a dangerous window where teenagers can get hooked on what feels like easy money before their brains are fully developed.