According to Bloomberg, Japanese prediction market startups are using a points-based model to circumvent the country's strict gambling prohibition. Miraima, founded by Gen Z entrepreneurs, allows users to wager on real-world events such as the World Cup and earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards and other cash-equivalents. Since its launch last November, Miraima's monthly active users have approached 1 million, driven largely by the recent World Cup and other sports events.
Competitive Landscape and Regulatory Moves
Competitor Poyp launched a similar app earlier this year, while mobile game developer Gumi Inc. released a point-based prediction game in June. It remains unclear whether these models have triggered regulatory scrutiny from Japanese financial authorities. Meanwhile, global prediction market giants Polymarket and Kalshi currently block or discourage users from placing bets on their platforms in Japan and have no official marketing campaigns there. However, according to sources, Polymarket is optimistic about long-term prospects and recently appointed a local representative to lead lobbying efforts for government approval. Polymarket acknowledged growing interest in Japan and the broader Asian market but declined to comment on its specific activities. Kalshi also declined to comment.