Google to allow Prediction Markets ads under strict rules

Google will permit U.S. ads for prediction markets, but only for CFTC-regulated exchanges and certified brokers under strict compliance rules.

Google will begin allowing ads for prediction markets in the U.S. starting Jan. 21, but only from federally regulated entities.

Who qualifies. Eligibility is limited to CFTC-authorized Designated Contract Markets (DCMs) whose primary business is listing exchange-listed event contracts, and to brokerages registered with the National Futures Association (NFA) that provide access to products from those DCMs. Advertisers must apply for Google certification to run ads in the U.S.

Why we care. Prediction markets have long been restricted on Google Ads. This update opens a new advertising channel while maintaining strict compliance and regulatory controls. Because eligibility is narrow and certification is required, only federally regulated, compliant players can participate, which may limit competition but gives qualifying advertisers early access to a high-intent audience in a tightly controlled environment.

The fine print. All ads, products, and landing pages must comply with applicable local laws, financial regulations, industry standards, and Google Ads policies. The new policy is now available for preview in the Advertising Policies Help Center, with references in the Financial Services and Gambling and Games sections.

The big picture. Google is cautiously expanding access for prediction markets by recognizing regulated platforms as financial products, while continuing to block unregulated providers.

Bottom line. Prediction market ads are coming to Google, but only for advertisers that meet strict federal and platform-level requirements.


Search Engine Land is owned by Semrush. We remain committed to providing high-quality coverage of marketing topics. Unless otherwise noted, this page’s content was written by either an employee or a paid contractor of Semrush Inc.


About the Author

Anu Adegbola

Anu Adegbola has been Paid Media Editor of Search Engine Land since 2024. She covers paid search, paid social, retail media, video and more.

In 2008, Anu started her career delivering digital marketing campaigns (mostly but not exclusively Paid Search) by building strategies, maximising ROI, automating repetitive processes and bringing efficiency from every part of marketing departments through inspiring leadership both on agency, client and marketing tech side. Outside editing Search Engine Land article she is the founder of PPC networking event - PPC Live and host of weekly podcast PPC Live The Podcast.

She is also an international speaker with some of the stages she has presented on being SMX (US, UK, Munich, Berlin), Friends of Search (Amsterdam, NL), brightonSEO, The Marketing Meetup, HeroConf (PPC Hero), SearchLove, BiddableWorld, SESLondon, PPC Chat Live, AdWorld Experience (Bologna, IT) and more.