Pentagon Bars Troops From Using Nonpublic Information for Prediction-Market Bets
The Pentagon has issued a new directive banning U.S. troops from using nonpublic information to place bets on prediction markets, as stated by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Fresno Visalia, CA, October 22, 2026 —
The Pentagon has issued a directive prohibiting U.S. troops from using nonpublic information to place bets on prediction markets, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The announcement describes a restriction on how troops may use information that is not publicly available when wagering in those markets.
The information provided does not specify when the directive takes effect, which prediction-market platforms are covered, or how the Pentagon plans to enforce the ban. It also does not detail possible penalties for violations or explain whether the directive changes existing rules.
The announcement does not identify particular cases or incidents that prompted the action. It also provides no further description of what qualifies as nonpublic information under the directive. Those details were not included in the information available about the announcement.
Hegseth is identified as the official who stated that the directive had been issued. No additional statement from him, other Pentagon officials or affected service members was provided. The available information likewise does not indicate whether the directive applies to people beyond U.S. troops.
The stated restriction is limited to using nonpublic information to place bets on prediction markets. Without additional details about its scope, timing and enforcement, the announcement leaves unanswered how the rule will be implemented in practice. No further information about the directive was provided.
Story summarized from the original created by KONSTANTIN TOROPIN, Associated Press on www.yourcentralvalley.com, see more information here.
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