Kalshi Bets Big: $1B Raised at $11B Valuation

Kalshi, a prominent prediction market, has successfully closed a substantial funding round, securing $1 billion at a valuation of $11 billion. This latest financial injection comes less than two months after its prior $300 million raise. The company, which allows users worldwide to bet on various future events, has experienced phenomenal growth, with its annualized trading volume increasing over a thousandfold within the last year.

The prediction market has gained significant traction, particularly after allowing bets on major political events like the US presidential election and the New York City mayoral race. Kalshi's innovative marketing, such as live ad screens on New York subways displaying election odds, has boosted its brand visibility. The platform operates in over 140 countries, covering a wide array of event predictions.

Despite its rapid expansion, Kalshi operates in a complex regulatory environment. While it has resolved issues with the CFTC, allowing Americans to use its platform, it is currently involved in legal battles with several state regulators who deem its activities as illegal gambling. This legal scrutiny is a significant challenge for the burgeoning prediction market.