Indonesia blocks Polymarket over online gambling concerns after bets on president's exit
Summary
Indonesia has blocked the prediction market Polymarket, classifying it as an online gambling platform due to its activities involving betting on inconclusive events. This decision follows a crackdown on online betting, which is illegal in the country. The move came after Polymarket attracted attention for taking bets on the premature end of President Prabowo Subianto's term, which is set to expire in 2029. The Communications and Digital Ministry stated that Polymarket's activities violate Indonesian law. A Polymarket spokesperson expressed the company's commitment to engaging with Indonesian authorities to support responsible innovation and user protection. The government is also investigating social media accounts affiliated with the platform.
(Source:The Economic Times)