Are Prediction Markets a Threat to Crypto?

May 21, 2026

The crypto market is having an uncomfortable moment. For years, it built its growth on a specific kind of person: someone who is risk tolerant, return hungry, and always looking for the next edge. That person is still out there. But a new market is competing for their attention, and the data suggests prediction markets are gaining ground fast.

Based on a nationally representative survey of more than 2,000 Americans, this study examines whether prediction markets pose a genuine threat to crypto, who is at the center of it, and what the next twelve months could look like for both.

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About this study

At Langston, we are endlessly curious about what drives consumer behavior. We regularly field large-scale studies to track how attitudes, habits, and spending patterns are shifting across different categories. This report draws from our 2026 Trends Sizing Study, which was designed to measure the size, awareness, and growth potential of emerging consumer behaviors.

2000+ respondents

This study is nationally representative of Americans ages 13–74 across seven income brackets, and was fielded in January 2026.

24 Life Lenses archetypes

We go beyond demographics to understand the motivations and values driving consumer behavior in both markets.

Langston expertise

Every data point in this report was analyzed, debated, and interpreted by our in-house team of consumer research experts.

Man investing in cryptocurrency on computer

What this study will tell you

At the center of both the crypto and prediction markets is a very specific kind of consumer. This study uses our proprietary Life Lenses framework to go deep on who that person is, what drives their decisions, and where their money is headed next. After reading this study, you will be able to answer the question on everyone’s mind: “What will happen to crypto?”


Is crypto losing to prediction markets?

Sentiment and behavior are not always the same thing. This study goes beyond the noise to measure what consumers are actually doing, and what they plan to do next.

Will there be a mass exodus from crypto?

The headlines suggest turbulence. But what consumers say they plan to do next tells a more nuanced story, and a more important one for anyone operating in this space.

Are prediction markets and crypto competing for the same consumer?

Both markets have grown fast. This study identifies who is actually participating in each, where the audiences overlap, and what that means for both industries.

Is crypto a currency, an investment, or something else entirely?

Crypto investors are not all in it for the same reason. Understanding how they actually define the asset reveals exactly why prediction markets have found such fertile ground with the same audience.

Curious about any of the findings? We'd love to go deeper into the data with you.


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In order to conduct unbiased and objective research, this study was privately funded by The Langston Co. We did not receive endorsement or financial support of any kind from any third party.

DISCLAIMER: We base our research, recommendations, and forecasts on techniques, information and sources we believe to be reliable. We cannot guarantee future accuracy and results. The Langston Co. will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by a reader's reliance on our research.