Prediction Market Platforms Compete with Free Grocery Promotions in New York

On February 4, prediction market platforms Kalshi and Polymarket intensified their competition for new users ahead of the Super Bowl by launching promotional events in New York. According to BlockBeats, Kalshi initiated an event on February 3 at WestSide Market in downtown Manhattan, offering customers $50 worth of groceries for free. The event attracted large crowds, with many participants noting that the offer was equivalent to several hours of wages, making it highly appealing. Kalshi co-founder Tarek Mansour stated that the initiative aimed to give back to the community and expand the user base. Meanwhile, Polymarket announced plans to open "The Polymarket," New York's first free grocery store, on February 12. The store will offer all items for free without any purchase requirements and will be accessible to all New Yorkers. Additionally, Polymarket pledged to donate $1 million to local food banks.