Opinion trading, the practice of predicting real-world events and trading based on outcomes, is expanding in India. Initially rooted in academic research and experimental markets, it has found applications in entertainment, finance, and political forecasting.
Globally, prediction markets have been used to forecast outcomes with notable accuracy. In India, interest in opinion trading is increasing due to digital transformation, financial literacy growth, and the rise of online gaming. Mobile-first platforms and a large, engaged user base are driving adoption.
India has over 700 million internet users, creating an environment for opinion-based platforms to expand. The success of fantasy gaming platforms like Dream11 and MPL has introduced users to predictive gameplay, bridging gaming and real-world event speculation.
Regulatory challenges remain a factor in the industry’s growth. Gaming laws vary across states, and the distinction between games of skill and games of chance continues to be debated. Industry participants are watching legal developments, as regulatory frameworks will influence the sector’s trajectory.
Dream11 recently launched an opinion trading platform, PICKS, marking its entry into the segment. Analysts view this as a significant development where gaming, market predictions, and real-world events intersect. The expansion of interactive, data-driven platforms is reshaping digital engagement and influencing both entertainment and financial speculation.
As digital adoption continues, opinion trading is expected to establish itself within India’s gaming and fintech ecosystems. The industry’s growth will depend on regulatory clarity, consumer understanding, and platform responsibility.
(BrandWagon Online reached out to Dream11’s team for a response but did not receive one at the time of publishing.)