IG Group targets UK prediction markets launch by Q4 2026

IG Group is targeting the launch of a UK prediction markets product as early as Q4 2026, the company announced at a Capital Markets Event held on 22 October.

The company’s IG Consumer arm, its retail investing unit, will lead the launch of IG’s UK prediction markets product, IG Consumer Chief Executive Officer Michael Healy said at the event.

Unified platform strategy

Healy announced that IG Group will combine predictions, crypto and traditional trading into one unified, in-house platform. The firm expects to broaden its markets to include politics, entertainment and sports by early 2027, the company said.

The announcement came just a week after the London-headquartered firm applied for a Gambling Commission betting licence.

Underdog acquisition and US expertise

IG Group acquired US daily fantasy sports (DFS) and prediction markets platform Underdog in a $1.1bn deal in July this year. Underdog already offers its bespoke product to 46 US states, the company said.

Marketing campaign and redomiciliation

The firm will set out on a targeted marketing campaign regarding consumers being able to “trade better” on the platform, set to hit UK screens on channels including Sky Sports next month, the company said.

IG Group also stated that its plans to redomicile in Jersey is on track and set to complete later this year or in early 2027.

IG Group shares were up 22p to £9.72 at 3:10pm GMT since the beginning of the Capital Markets event.