CFTC approves Bitnomial to offer event contracts

CNBC reported that the U.S. CFTC granted Bitnomial approval to proceed with event‑based derivatives contracts, expanding the range of regulated prediction‑style products available on a U.S. digital asset derivatives exchange.[4]

The CFTC no-action letter establishes a regulatory framework for US-based prediction markets by exempting event contracts from restrictive swap reporting requirements, legitimizing a previously offshore-dominated market segment and signaling regulatory acceptance of crypto derivatives innovation. This structural approval removes compliance barriers for institutional participation and positions the US as an accommodating jurisdiction for regulated prediction platforms, though the narrow scope and revocability of the letter present ongoing regulatory uncertainty.

• Why it matters now: CFTC no‑action relief lets Bitnomial list regulated event contracts, signaling growing U.S. acceptance of crypto‑settled prediction markets versus offshore venues. - Likely short‑term reaction: Modest positive sentiment for onshore derivatives venues and “reg‑friendly” prediction markets; limited impact on broad crypto benchmarks. - Medium‑term implications: - Gradual migration of U.S. flow from gray‑area platforms to CFTC‑supervised markets. - Template for additional exchanges seeking similar structures. - Potential beneficiaries: - Bitnomial ecosystem assets and compliant prediction‑market infrastructure. - Main risks/uncertainty: - Narrow, revocable relief; policy shifts or enforcement events could quickly tighten the framework.