Kalshi Restricts India Users Amid Regulatory Crackdown on Prediction Markets

Key Facts

In a move reflecting the growing hurdles for decentralized trading platforms in emerging markets, prediction market Kalshi has officially added India to its list of 55 restricted jurisdictions. This decision follows specific warnings issued by Indian authorities to VPN providers to block access to such offshore platforms. According to reports, the restriction is a direct response to regulatory pressure aimed at curbing domestic participation in unauthorized betting and prediction markets.

These restrictions arrive amidst a broader regulatory crackdown in India, where the government has maintained a 30% tax on crypto gains since 2022. In comparison to peers, platforms like Polymarket have faced similar scrutiny in various jurisdictions, highlighting a global trend of tightening oversight on prediction markets operating outside local frameworks. Per market data, Kalshi's exit from the Indian market represents a significant loss of a high-growth user base that contributed to the platform's liquidity potential.

Looking ahead, traders are focused on the Fed Interest Rate Decision scheduled for June 17, 2026, which remains a primary catalyst for fintech risk appetite. Recent data showed US Retail Sales grew by 0.7% in June, suggesting resilient consumer spending despite inflationary pressures. Investors should monitor for further legal updates from Indian regulators that may impact other international trading platforms in the coming weeks.