U.S. House pressures the CFTC, demanding answers to six questions about insider trading in prediction markets

Gate News message: Seven U.S. House members jointly sent a letter to CFTC Chair Michael S. Selig, questioning why the agency is not taking decisive action regarding alleged insider trading in prediction markets connected to U.S. military actions involving Iran and Venezuela. The lawmakers noted that a large number of suspicious contracts may violate the Commodity Exchange Act, indicating insufficient industry oversight, and they asked the CFTC to answer six specific questions by April 15.

The lawmakers emphasized that even if some trading occurs outside the United States, it should not prevent the CFTC from taking enforcement actions. In the letter, they wrote that if these “corrupt trades” remain in place long term, it will cast doubt on the committee’s willingness and ability to carry out its global regulatory responsibilities. The letter highlights concerns about the legitimacy of prediction market services provided by platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket, and it also reflects skepticism about the CFTC’s jurisdiction and enforcement vigor.

The CFTC has not ignored the issue. Enforcement Director David Miller spoke last week, saying there is confusion in the market about insider trading involving prediction markets, stressing that insider trading does exist, and promising selective enforcement focused on cases involving the misuse of confidential information. However, he did not disclose a specific action plan.

This episode underscores the sensitivity and complexity of U.S. regulation of prediction markets. As geopolitical events happen frequently and markets involving crypto derivatives and contracts keep expanding, how regulators balance market innovation with legal enforcement has become a focal point. Investors and observers are closely watching the CFTC’s next response, especially as regulatory rules remain unclear and contracts could involve major military actions, making compliance issues increasingly prominent.

The lawmakers’ pressure campaign may not only spark debate at the regulatory level, but also potentially affect the prediction market and crypto derivatives ecosystem. As regulatory investigations progress, market participants need to be alert to possible policy changes and their impact on capital flows and contract trading activity.