Prediction market rivals turn to free groceries in New York showdown

[kevin1]

Two of the largest prediction market platforms, Kalshi and Polymarket, are taking their rivalry offline — and into grocery stores. Kalshi handed out $50 worth of groceries to more than 1,000 people in Manhattan on Tuesday, while Polymarket announced plans to open a free grocery store in New York starting next week.

The unusual marketing push comes as prediction markets surge in popularity, with daily trading volumes now consistently above $400 million, roughly four times higher than a year ago. Both companies are fighting for dominance in a sector attracting growing mainstream attention.

Videos posted online showed long lines stretching multiple blocks as New Yorkers lined up for Kalshi’s giveaway.

[mendez]

prediction markets doing guerrilla marketing in grocery stores was not on my 2026 bingo card.