The Dutch gambling regulator has imposed a €420,000 fine on US-based prediction market operator Polymarket for continuing unlicensed activity in the Netherlands.
In February 2026, Polymarket received a formal warning from the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch gambling regulator, instructing the company to cease its operations within the country. The KSA threatened weekly fines of €420,000 (£363,000) if Polymarket failed to comply. After the company continued its activities without a valid license, the regulator has now enforced the penalty, demonstrating its commitment to protecting Dutch consumers from unlicensed gambling services.
Prediction markets like Polymarket enable users to place bets on the outcomes of future events, including political elections and economic indicators. However, in the Netherlands, operators must hold a valid license to offer such services legally. Licensing ensures that consumer protections and responsible gambling measures are in place. Polymarket’s unlicensed operations mean Dutch players using the platform do not benefit from these safeguards, increasing their exposure to potential risks.
For players in the Netherlands, engaging with unlicensed operators carries significant risks. These include limited consumer protection, lack of responsible gambling tools such as self-exclusion and betting limits, and potential difficulties in withdrawing winnings or resolving disputes. The KSA’s enforcement action aims to reduce these risks by discouraging participation in illegal gambling markets and encouraging players to use licensed alternatives.
This fine against Polymarket reflects a wider regulatory push across Europe to combat black market gambling. Authorities are increasingly vigilant about unlicensed operators exploiting regulatory gaps, which can expose players to harm and financial loss. The KSA’s action sends a clear message that unlicensed gambling platforms will face substantial penalties if they continue to operate in the Dutch market.
Players interested in prediction markets or other online betting forms should verify that platforms hold appropriate licenses from recognized authorities such as the KSA. Licensed operators are required to implement responsible gambling measures, including self-exclusion options and limits on betting, which help mitigate gambling-related harm.
Similar regulatory concerns have emerged in the UK, where the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) recently defended its members against allegations of black market activity. The UK government has also committed resources to tackle illegal gambling, emphasizing the importance of licensed operators in protecting consumers. More details on this topic are available in SBC News’ coverage here.
Additionally, there is ongoing debate in the UK about banning unlicensed gambling sponsorship in football. The Independent Football Regulator has been urged to prevent Premier League clubs from accepting sponsorship deals with operators not licensed in the UK, aiming to reduce the visibility and influence of unregulated gambling brands. Further information can be found in The Guardian’s report here.
For Dutch players, staying informed about licensing status and regulatory developments is essential. GamblingNews.today offers comprehensive resources on betting regulations and player protections in the Netherlands and internationally. Visit our Betting section and Netherlands category for the latest updates.
Source: SBC News.
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