CFTC Chair Michael Selig defends federal authority over prediction markets.
Agency files friend-of-the-court brief supporting Crypto.com.
Debate grows over state vs federal control in crypto markets.
Federal Authority Takes Center Stage
The debate around prediction markets in the United States has taken a new turn as CFTC Chair Michael Selig made it clear that the agency will not remain passive while states attempt to assert control over federally regulated platforms. His comments signal a stronger stance from Washington on how prediction markets should be supervised.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is the main federal regulator responsible for overseeing derivatives and certain types of trading platforms, including prediction markets. These platforms allow users to place trades based on the outcome of future events, from elections to economic indicators.
Selig emphasized that federal law gives the CFTC primary authority in this area. According to him, state-level actions that attempt to restrict or override this authority could create regulatory confusion and disrupt innovation in financial markets.
Support for Crypto.com
In a significant move, the CFTC filed a friend-of-the-court brief in support of Crypto.com. This step highlights the agency’s commitment to defending its jurisdiction and ensuring that prediction markets operate under a clear federal framework.
A friend-of-the-court brief, also known as an amicus brief, allows a government agency or organization to present its legal perspective in an ongoing case. By backing Crypto.com, the CFTC is signaling that it believes federal oversight should prevail over what it describes as overreach by certain states.
This action could have broader implications for other crypto exchanges and prediction platforms operating in the U.S. market. A strong federal stance may encourage more consistent rules across states, reducing uncertainty for businesses and traders.
TODAY: CFTC Chair Michael Selig says the agency will no longer sit idly by while overzealous states undermine federal jurisdiction over prediction markets.
CFTC files friend-of-the-court brief supporting Crypto. com. pic.twitter.com/l1vn25GYXu
— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) February 17, 2026
What This Means for the Industry
The clash between state regulators and federal authorities has been a recurring theme in the crypto industry. Clear rules are essential for companies seeking to innovate while remaining compliant. If federal jurisdiction is reinforced, prediction markets could benefit from a more stable legal environment.
For traders and investors, this development may bring greater clarity about how these markets will be governed. While legal battles may continue, the CFTC’s latest move suggests it is ready to actively defend its regulatory role.
As the situation evolves, the future of prediction markets in the U.S. will likely depend on how courts interpret federal authority versus state intervention. For now, the message from Washington is clear: the CFTC intends to stand firm.
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