Summary
• Dutch regulator ordered Polymarket to cease operations
• Weekly fines of €420,000 could apply if it fails to comply
• Authorities say the platform lacks a gambling license
Polymarket has reportedly been banned in the Netherlands, effective immediately.
Dutch authorities say the prediction platform operated gambling services without the required license.
Polymarket Banned Netherlands After Regulator Order
The Netherlands gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit, ordered U.S.-based Polymarket to stop offering services in the country.
In a statement, the regulator said the platform was facilitating gambling activity without authorization under Dutch law.
If Polymarket continues operating, it faces weekly fines of €420,000, up to a maximum of €840,000. Authorities added that heavier penalties tied to revenue could follow.
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Dispute Over Prediction Markets Classification
Polymarket has argued that prediction markets do not fall under traditional gambling definitions.
However, the Dutch regulator disagrees and treats such activity as regulated betting.
The platform drew attention in recent months for markets tied to Dutch elections and international political events.
Growing European Enforcement
European regulators have tightened oversight of crypto-linked platforms offering betting-style products.
Because licensing rules differ across jurisdictions, companies often face patchwork compliance requirements.
As a result, enforcement actions have increased against firms operating without local approval.
The Netherlands’ move adds to mounting regulatory pressure on certain crypto platforms across Europe.
Whether Polymarket contests the decision or exits the market remains unclear.
