Key Points
- Predict 2026 relocated its conference from Las Vegas to New York, attributing the decision to regulatory challenges in Nevada.
- Nevada Gaming Control Board officials stated they issued no instructions to venues regarding event cancellations or refusals.
- Gaming licensees in Nevada face requirements to comply with state laws and maintain conduct that protects the industry’s reputation.
- An earlier Prediction Conference event took place in Las Vegas at a non-casino hotel venue.
- Conference organizers plan to bring the event back to Las Vegas in November at a location away from the strip.
Predict 2026 shifted its conference location to New York, attributing the change to challenges with Nevada regulators. Officials from the Nevada Gaming Control Board have disputed this characterization. The disagreement highlights differing interpretations of regulatory expectations for venue operators.
Conference organizers point to Nevada Gaming Control Board concerns
Predict 2026 representatives stated that regulatory obstacles from the Nevada Gaming Control Board prompted their departure from Las Vegas. The organization declined to identify specific venues involved.
A Gaming Control Board representative informed CoinDesk that the regulatory body made no requests to licensees or venues regarding cancellations. According to the representative, “We did not ask anyone to cancel.”
The official further clarified that the board issued no directives to venue operators about declining conference bookings. This statement addressed media accounts suggesting such actions occurred.
The representative emphasized that Nevada gaming licensees bear responsibility for adhering to state regulations and maintaining practices that safeguard the gaming sector’s integrity. Venue operators must ensure their facilities do not host activities that could damage the industry’s standing.
Predict 2026 has released no documentation—including correspondence, official letters, or contractual materials—related to the venue change. CoinDesk’s coverage draws from statements provided by event organizers.
Nevada authorities have taken enforcement actions targeting segments of the prediction market industry. Consequently, event planners have modified their venue selections and operational approaches.
While Gaming Control Board officials made no specific reference to Predict 2026 in their public statements, they underscored licensees’ obligations to uphold industry standards.
Regulatory authorities have encountered pushback from industry organizations regarding conference venue accessibility. The board maintains its position that it has taken no action against specific events.
Prediction market event proceeds in Las Vegas while Kalshi faces legal restrictions
Earlier in the month, the Prediction Conference gathered Polymarket participants and industry professionals in Las Vegas for a two-day gathering. Organizers selected a hotel property that operates without casino facilities.
Conference founder Ish Milly shared with CoinDesk that the gathering attracted numerous industry participants and proceeded without complications. He confirmed plans for another event scheduled for later this year.
Milly stated, “We will host a second edition in November in Las Vegas.” He added, “Our venue is off the strip.”
He noted that the chosen property lacks casino operations, allowing the conference to sidestep licensing complications associated with gaming establishments.
Nevada continues to navigate ongoing litigation this year concerning prediction market contracts tied to sports outcomes. In April, a judicial decision maintained Kalshi’s prohibition within the state following regulatory enforcement submissions.
The presiding judge determined that Kalshi contracts appeared “indistinguishable” from gambling activities under Nevada statutes. This ruling preserved the existing ban.
CFTC chair Michael Selig explained to Axios, “Sports betting and prediction markets are two separate things.” He noted the CFTC maintains collaborative relationships with sports leagues focused on monitoring and integrity measures.
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