Macro·9 min read·LOS ANGELES

    AI & Tech IPO Prediction Markets: Trading Anthropic, OpenAI and AI Regulation From California

    By Catie Di StefanoPublished September 25, 2026Updated September 25, 2026

    Anthropic vs OpenAI IPO odds, AI-regulation contracts and Newsom's AI bills: how Kalshi and Polymarket price California's tech economy. Legal, 21+ only.

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    AI & Tech IPO Prediction Markets: Trading Anthropic, OpenAI and AI Regulation From California

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    Sources & further reading

    Every figure and legal claim on this page traces back to a primary source. These are the ones we checked, open them and verify us.

    Frequently asked questions

    What are AI IPO prediction markets?

    They are yes/no event contracts that pay $1 if a defined IPO milestone, such as Anthropic's IPO being confirmed, happens by a set date, and $0 if it doesn't. The price, between 0¢ and $1, is the market's implied probability.

    Can I trade Anthropic or OpenAI IPO odds on Kalshi?

    Yes, Kalshi has listed IPO-announcement contracts for both companies and a "Will OpenAI or Anthropic IPO first?" market. Polymarket has also listed IPO-date and valuation contracts on both. Check each platform for current availability.

    When is the Anthropic IPO expected?

    The Wall Street Journal reported on September 18, 2026 that Anthropic is targeting November 2026, after its window slipped from earlier in the fall. Timelines can move, so check the live contract for the market's current read.

    Will OpenAI go public in 2026?

    Prediction markets have grown skeptical. As of September 2026, OpenAI had reportedly filed confidentially, but reports suggest the listing may slip into 2027. The race contract on Kalshi heavily favored Anthropic to list first.

    Why do Kalshi and Polymarket show different IPO odds for the same company?

    Mostly because they can resolve on different milestones. For example, one platform may resolve YES when an S-1 is declared effective, while another may require the IPO to be completed or trading. Liquidity differences can also contribute to price gaps.

    Can I legally trade AI and tech IPO contracts in California?

    Yes. Platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket are available to eligible users in California. Our site's policy is to direct content to users 21 and over. For more on the legal landscape, see our guide on [if Kalshi is legal in California](/guides/is-kalshi-legal-in-california).

    Can I trade a contract on my own employer's IPO?

    No. Trading on material non-public information can violate CFTC anti-fraud rules, and platforms ban and penalize it. If you work at the company or one of its advisors, you should not trade in that market.

    Are AI-regulation contracts as liquid as sports or IPO contracts?

    Generally no. Federal AI-bill markets can trade with significantly less volume than major IPO contracts, so check volume and spread before treating a niche regulatory price as a reliable signal.

    Are prediction market profits taxed in California?

    Yes. Net gains are generally taxable as ordinary income at both the federal and California state level. See our [California taxes guide](/guides/prediction-market-taxes-california) for more details. Affiliate links: we may earn a commission. See our [disclosure](/disclosure). Trade responsibly. 21+.

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    Next steps

    Top platforms Californians are using:

    Polymarket

    The world's largest prediction market, now live on iPhone in the US.

    Sign up at Polymarket

    21+ Only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Not available in all jurisdictions. Trading is risky. 100% loss can occur. See polymarket.com/tos for more information. The Polymarket US App serves as an independent software provider and affiliate of Polymarket US and Polymarket Clearing, the CFTC-regulated exchange and clearing organization.

    Kalshi

    The regulatory leader.

    Sign up at Kalshi

    Certain limitations apply. The offer is available to new users only, subject to the terms and conditions at kalshi.com/tc/500. 21+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information.

    OG (by Crypto.com)

    CFTC-regulated event contracts. Get up to $100 in bonuses.

    Sign up at OG (by Crypto.com)