Prediction Markets: Google Ads Limits in 5 States

Prediction-market operators cannot advertise through Google Ads to residents of Connecticut, Michigan, Nevada, New York or Ohio, as disputes over sports-related event contracts continue in state and federal courts. CDC Gaming reported that the restriction affects Kalshi and other operators.

The five-state list creates an advertising barrier even as the underlying legal questions remain unsettled. Google’s policy sets conditions for where these companies can advertise, separate from the cases over whether states can stop them from offering contracts.

Google’s certification rules

Google added a section on prediction markets to its main Google Ads policies document in the week before CDC Gaming published its report. The rules cover platforms that list, or provide customers access to, exchange-listed contracts tied to economics, sports or current events.

To advertise in an eligible location, a provider must hold the applicable local financial, commodities or gaming licences,…