The Netherlands gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (Ksa) has ordered Polymarket, the world's largest prediction market platform, to stop offering services in the country effective immediately. The authority determined that the platform operates without a valid license by allowing users to place wagers on political elections and global conflicts, which falls under Dutch gambling laws.
Weekly Fine of €420,000, Cap at €840,000
Ksa stated that continued access for Dutch users would trigger a weekly penalty of €420,000 (approximately $494,823), with a maximum cumulative fine of €840,000. Regulators warned that unlicensed operations expose consumers to risks including lack of protection, limited transparency, and unclear dispute resolution mechanisms.
A Ksa official emphasized that any operator without a license has no place in the local market, and new digital wagering models must adhere to the same standards as traditional gambling providers.
Election Betting Sparked the Crackdown
Polymarket drew regulatory attention in the Netherlands after listing markets tied to national elections. Ksa said it contacted the company about illegal operations but saw no visible changes. To test accessibility, a Ksa supervisor reportedly placed a bet on D66 leader Rob Jetten, confirming that local users could interact with the platform without restrictions. Records show the prediction market is owned by Adventure One QSS Inc. and lacks the required permissions.
Global Scrutiny Deepens
Polymarket has faced criticism for listing wagers on conflict scenarios, such as whether Israel would launch another strike on Gaza or whether Russia could capture the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk by year-end. In the U.S., the company paid a $1.4 million penalty for operating without authorization; litigation was paused during the Trump administration. Reports also highlighted a $10 million investment from Trump's son, boosting public profile.
In Belgium, internet providers block access to the platform, while the Netherlands has not yet implemented technical blocking measures. The Dutch ban could signal tighter regulation of prediction markets across Europe.