Blockchain.com has applied to the CFTC for licenses to offer prediction markets and crypto derivatives to US customers. It already serves some international users with both products and is reportedly preparing an IPO.
Blockchain.com has applied for two US licenses that would let it offer prediction markets and crypto derivatives, CNBC reported Friday. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission oversees approval of both.
Two licenses, one US push
The applications cover a designated contract market license and registration as a futures commission merchant. According to Cointelegraph, the first would let Blockchain.com operate as a futures exchange for event contracts, while the second would make it a broker for derivatives contracts.
CEO and co-founder Peter Smith said in a statement cited by CNBC: "Users should be able to manage their digital assets, trade derivatives" and take positions on real-world events.
Today, Blockchain.com offers prediction markets through Polymarket and perpetual futures through Hyperliquid, but only to non-U.S. customers. Approval would open those products to US customers.
Crowded licensing queue and IPO plans
Blockchain.com is not alone at the regulator. Crypto Briefing reports that twelve companies have sought DCM licenses in 2026, and the CFTC has approved six new DCMs this year.
The timing overlaps with its listing plans. The company confidentially filed for an IPO in May, and Bloomberg reported last week that it is seeking to raise roughly $500 million at a valuation of between $4 billion and $6 billion.
Meanwhile, Cointelegraph notes that US courts are testing oversight of prediction market platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket, as state authorities have pending lawsuits against companies over alleged violations of laws on betting on sports and elections.
Sources: The Block, Cointelegraph, Crypto Briefing
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