Initiatives & Advocacy
We Are the Unified Voice of Information Markets
IMA serves as the collective voice of the information markets industry in all matters of public policy. We advocate for regulations and laws that enable innovation and growth while safeguarding market integrity and participants. IMA also leads initiatives to connect, educate, and empower those involved in information markets—from hosting industry-wide events to commissioning research that advances understanding.
Key Advocacy Focus Areas
Our advocacy is grounded in expertise: members include seasoned market operators, financial professionals, and academics whose insights help policymakers understand this unique sector.
Whether engaging with a federal regulator or testifying before a legislative committee, IMA’s approach is constructive and solutions-oriented—we work with regulators and lawmakers to find common-sense frameworks that benefit all stakeholders.
Regulatory Clarity
Pushing for clear and uniform rules defining how information markets can operate. This includes supporting appropriate federal frameworks (so national markets aren't impeded by patchwork state laws) and working with agencies like the CFTC to refine event contract regulatory structure. We advocate for licensing and registration pathways that are well-defined and practical.
Industry Standards & Best Practices
Establishing industry-led standards essential to maintaining high integrity. IMA promotes best practices in contract design, standardized settlement and resolution protocols, strong KYC/AML compliance frameworks, and data transparency and reporting standards.
Market Integrity & Consumer Protection
Trust is the foundation of information markets. We support policies and internal rules guarding against insider trading and manipulation, along with pre- and post-trade surveillance to detect and deter unfair practices. We champion consumer protections—transparency in operations and appropriate disclosures—so participants are treated fairly and can trust market outcomes.
How We Advocate
Direct Regulatory Dialogue
Ongoing communication with the CFTC, SEC, and relevant state and tribal regulators through regular meetings and consultations
Legislative Outreach
Representing industry interests on Capitol Hill—briefing lawmakers and staff, offering testimony at hearings, and working with Congressional allies on sensible legislative outcomes.
Public Commentary & Amicus Briefs
Coordinating comment letter submissions during regulatory rulemakings and joining or filing amicus briefs in precedent-setting legal cases.
Coalition Building
Partnering with financial services associations, fintech groups, academic institutes, and consumer advocacy organizations to build broad support and present a united front on critical issues.
Member-Driven Agenda
Our advocacy agenda is shaped by our members.
IMA operates on a consensus-driven model: members propose and prioritize issues through committees and working groups. Draft advocacy positions are circulated for feedback to ensure broad agreement. The result is an advocacy program that truly represents the collective will and expertise of the information markets community. When IMA speaks to regulators or legislators, it’s backed by the unified support of an entire industry.
Member Engagement Program Initiatives
Annual Industry Summit
Our flagship conference brings together all corners of the ecosystem. Industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers convene for keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking. The summit is a cornerstone event for sharing knowledge and forging connections.
Regulatory & Compliance Workshops
Periodic workshops focused on regulatory developments and compliance best practices. Members get direct access to insights on topics like new CFTC guidelines, state-level rule changes, and practical compliance strategies—often featuring guest speakers including former regulators and legal experts.
Roundtable Discussions
Intimate roundtables (often virtual) tackling specific challenges—navigating differing state and tribal laws, addressing technical issues in market operations. Focused sessions allow members with common interests to brainstorm solutions collaboratively.
Webinar Series
Ongoing expert-led presentations on emerging topics: from technology trends (new trading platforms, AI in forecasting) to deep dives into market insights. An accessible way for members and the public to stay informed.
Research & Publications
Market Structure Analysis
Studies examining liquidity, pricing efficiency, and market dynamics—identifying ways to improve market design and demonstrating how well-functioning information markets benefit participants.
Economic Impact Reports
Research quantifying what information markets contribute to society and the economy—measuring how prediction markets improve decision-making, generate economic value, or provide public benefit. Essential for educating policymakers.
Global Regulatory Comparison Whitepapers
Comparative reports highlighting regulatory frameworks internationally, studying “what works” in other jurisdictions to guide domestic policy and help members navigate cross-border challenges.
Issue Briefs & Position Papers
Accessible publications on key policy issues: best practices for contract design, approaches to market integrity, frameworks for responsible innovation. These articulate industry perspective and often serve as the basis for advocacy positions.
External Collaboration
Engagement with Policymakers & Regulators
Beyond formal advocacy, we proactively collaborate with agencies—partnering on sandbox programs or informational workshops, briefing congressional staff and agency teams. IMA positions itself as a go-to resource on market expertise.
Academic Partnerships
Close ties with the academic community through our Academic Advisory Council of researchers and professors specializing in prediction markets, economics, and data science. We co-host academic conferences and support joint research projects.
Industry Alliances
Active engagement with other trade associations and industry groups—fintech councils, blockchain and emerging technology alliances, financial market associations—to share knowledge and coordinate efforts. Internationally, we connect with operators abroad to exchange best practices.