DraftKings Expands Into Prediction Markets Game With Railbird Acquisition

Core Insights - DraftKings is expanding into the prediction markets business by acquiring Railbird Technologies, which will support its plans to offer regulated event contracts [1][4] - The acquisition is seen as a strategic move to enhance DraftKings' competitive position against emerging online prediction market operators like Kalshi and Polymarket [2][3] Company Developments - Co-founder and CEO Jason Robins stated that the addition of Railbird positions DraftKings to succeed in the growing prediction markets space [2] - DraftKings plans to launch "DraftKings Predictions," a mobile app for trading regulated event contracts related to real-world outcomes in finance, culture, and entertainment [3] Market Context - Online prediction markets have gained popularity in 2025, with sports betting being a significant growth driver, creating competition for regulated online sports betting operators like DraftKings [2] - Following the acquisition announcement, DraftKings shares rose approximately 2%, although they remain down about 8% for the year 2025 [4]