IG Group Sets Q4 2026 Target for UK Prediction Markets Launch After Underdog Acquisition
IG Group targets Q4 2026 for a UK prediction markets launch led by IG Consumer, integrating predictions with crypto and trading. The plans follow the $1.1bn Underdog acquisition, a recent Gambling Commission licence application, and a marketing push starting next month. Dual oversight by the Commission and FCA is anticipated amid sector talks.
SCCG Take — This launch tests the boundary between trading platforms and gambling regulation in the UK. Success hinges on navigating FCA discussions and leveraging Underdog expertise without triggering stricter licensing burdens.
IG Group is targeting the launch of a UK prediction markets product as early as Q4 2026. The FTSE 100 financial trading services platform disclosed the timeline at its Capital Markets Event on October 22, citing strong appetite for prediction markets in the UK. According to reporting by SBC News, the IG Consumer arm will lead the effort.
Michael Healy, IG Consumer Chief Executive Officer, detailed plans to combine predictions, crypto, and traditional trading into one unified in-house platform. This follows the firm’s $1.1bn acquisition of US daily fantasy sports and prediction markets platform Underdog in July. Underdog offers its product across 46 US states.
Breon Corcoran, CEO of IG Group, said: “Trading, investing and entertainment are converging, and IG is well placed to capitalise on the opportunity.” He added that the priorities build on the current plan and will create significant shareholder value.
Product Expansion and Marketing Plans
IG Group will launch a targeted marketing campaign next month featuring advertisements on channels including Sky Sports. The campaign focuses on consumers being able to “trade better” on the platform. Markets are set to broaden to include politics, entertainment, and sports by early 2027.
The company applied for a Gambling Commission betting licence one week before the Capital Markets Event. It is also proceeding with redomicile plans in Jersey, expected to complete later this year or in early 2027. Shares rose 22p to £9.72 during the event.
Regulatory Path Forward
The UK effort will operate under oversight from both the Gambling Commission and the Financial Conduct Authority. The FCA has stated intentions to hold talks on the future of predictions in the UK. This contrasts with US regulation under the Commodities Futures Trading Commission, where leaders such as Kalshi and Polymarket reject the gambling label.
Corcoran acknowledged that venturing into uncharted territory involves managing regulatory uncertainty but reaffirmed conviction in the company’s ability to navigate it. The approach will test how hybrid trading and betting propositions align with existing UK frameworks.
Reporting: SBC News
Generated by SCCG’s automated editorial system from published source reporting. SCCG Management holds editorial responsibility.
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