Responsible trading
Keep it fun and under control. Limits, warning signs and where to get free help.
Prediction markets are exchanges, but for most people using them they feel a lot like betting, and the same risks apply. You can lose all the money you put into a contract.
Simple rules that help
- Set a budget before you start, and only use money you can afford to lose.
- Use the platform's limits. Most apps let you set deposit limits, time-outs or self-exclusion in the account settings.
- Don't chase losses. Trying to win back a loss quickly usually makes it bigger.
- Take breaks, especially during long live events.
- Never borrow to trade.
Warning signs
- Spending more than you planned, or more often.
- Hiding trading from family or friends.
- Feeling anxious or irritable when you can't trade.
- Trading to escape problems or low mood.
Free, confidential help (US)
- 1-800-GAMBLER (call or text), run by the National Council on Problem Gambling.
- ncpgambling.org for chat and local services.
- Gamblers Anonymous: gamblersanonymous.org
Age
You must be 21 or older to use most US prediction market platforms and their offers (18 on some). We don't write for anyone under that age.