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White House staff told not to place bets on prediction markets

White House staff told not to place bets on prediction markets

Summary

The White House advised staff not to use insider information to make bets on prediction markets. This warning came after concerns were raised about using confidential government information to profit from such platforms. The White House emphasized that officials must follow ethics rules against insider trading.

Key Facts

  • White House staff received an email warning against using insider info for betting.
  • The email was sent on March 24, after President Trump paused a threat to attack Iranian infrastructure.
  • Concerns were raised about officials betting on sites like Kalshi and Polymarket.
  • The White House stated accusations of such actions are baseless and stressed ethics rules.
  • Prediction markets have attracted attention for large amounts of trading, reaching over $44 billion.
  • Polymarket was previously scrutinized when someone profited significantly from a bet related to a Venezuelan event.
  • Federal employees must adhere to guidelines that prevent financial gain from insider knowledge.