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CFTC Battles States Over Prediction Markets' Legality

2/20/2026

Summary

CFTC Defends Authority

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission plans to defend its authority in court against state lawsuits over Kalshi and Polymarket.
The CFTC argues these markets should be treated as financial derivatives rather than gambling platforms.
State officials, including Utah Governor Spencer Cox, say prediction markets are gambling and threaten consumer protections.
The dispute could reshape state revenues and regulatory frameworks, potentially reaching the U.S. Supreme Court.

Summary

Pentagon Targets Anthropic

The Pentagon plans to designate Anthropic, the AI startup, as a supply-chain risk for refusing to comply with military demands about Claude.
The designation could hinder companies seeking to partner with U.S. military from working with Anthropic.
Critics say move reflects a conflict reminiscent of tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump and companies opposing his agenda.
Steve Bannon, a MAGA ally, faces scrutiny from MAGA supporters over his past communications with Jeffrey Epstein.

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CFTC Defends Authority

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission plans to defend its authority in court against state lawsuits over Kalshi and Polymarket.
The CFTC argues these markets should be treated as financial derivatives rather than gambling platforms.
State officials, including Utah Governor Spencer Cox, say prediction markets are gambling and threaten consumer protections.
The dispute could reshape state revenues and regulatory frameworks, potentially reaching the U.S. Supreme Court.

1 / 2