Japanese Prediction Market Startup Miraima Hits 1M Monthly Active Users, Circumventing Betting Bans via Points System

According to Bloomberg, Japanese prediction market startup Miraima is using a points-based system to circumvent local betting regulations, allowing users to wager on real-world events and earn points redeemable for gift cards and cash rewards. Since launching in November, the platform founded by Gen Z entrepreneurs has attracted nearly 1 million monthly active users.

Competitors are following suit: Poyp launched a similar app earlier this year, and mobile gaming developer Gumi Inc. released a points-based prediction game in June. Meanwhile, Polymarket and Kalshi, which currently restrict or discourage user activity in Japan, are exploring the market—Polymarket has reportedly appointed a local representative to lobby for regulatory approval, though both platforms declined to comment.