Futu Hldgs Q2 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

Prediction Markets Explode as Billions Pour into a New Trading Frontier

Prediction markets are rapidly transitioning into mainstream finance with institutional participation accelerating growth. Kalshi and Polymarket achieved $50.6 billion in combined trading volume in July 2026, while Cantor Fitzgerald's entry into institutional trading removes barriers for hedge funds and professional investors. Prospect Prediction Markets secured CFTC registration as an introducing broker, enabling U.S. market access. Analysts project prediction markets could reach $1 trillion in annual trading volume by decade-end, establishing event contracts as a new asset class alongside stocks, options, and futures.

Shares of crypto-linked stocks are trading higher as investors rotate into digital currencies as U.S. government spending concerns prompt debasement trade.

Consumer Tech (Aug 17-21): Walmart & Alibaba Posts Earnings, Trump Targets U.S. Space Launch Growth & More

Walmart, Amazon and PayPal feature among major retail and financial services developments spanning earnings, investments, drone delivery and potential acquisition talks.

Shares of crypto-linked companies are trading higher amid continued Bitcoin price momentum after President Trump recently urged Congress to pass the Clarity Act and said the CFTC is working to bring Hyperliquid to the U.S. Investors may be seeing a renewed appetite for high-risk assets after the Treasury Department expanded its debt repurchase program.