United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby Builds an AI Sports Betting Tool
Lara Johns • Nov 2, 2026 Here is what changed, why it matters, and what US bettors should watch next.
Why DraftKings Cuts Its Outlook for 2026
Third-quarter sales reached $1.33 billion. That is a 16% jump on the year, but it missed the $1.40 billion analyst estimate. However, the real jolt sat lower in the report.
Full-year earnings guidance (adjusted EBITDA) dropped to a $175M–$275M window. Management had been pointing to $700M–$900M as recently as August. Also, revenue expectations narrowed slightly, to $6.35B–$6.55B from the prior $6.5B–$6.9B band.
Why Prediction Markets Are the New Priority
Prediction markets let users trade contracts on real-world outcomes, from elections to sports results. They sit in a regulatory grey zone that overlaps with traditional US sports betting apps. Kalshi and Polymarket have grown quickly in this lane.
For example, during the NFL season opener, Kalshi reportedly grabbed roughly three-quarters of sports contract volume. DraftKings’ own exchange landed at just 3%. The response from management was a much bigger budget. Predictions spending jumped to a $650M–$700M range, more than triple the prior $200M–$300M figure.
What the Outlook Cut Means for US Bettors
For players, the sportsbook itself will not change overnight. Promos, odds boosts, and parlay features should keep rolling out as normal. However, the extra Predictions spend could pull resources away from new state rollouts and casino feature updates.
Price-sensitive bettors should keep an eye on offer sizes. If DraftKings dials marketing back to protect margins, the generous welcome deals of the last two years may shrink. Smaller bonuses and tighter boosts are the most likely first move.
The Bigger Picture for US Gambling
The guidance cut lands in a crowded field. FanDuel, BetMGM, Fanatics, and Caesars are all fighting for the same pool of US players. Prediction markets now add a federally-regulated front to that fight, and smaller operators may struggle to match the spending.
That said, the reaction on earnings day was harsh, but the pivot is not a surrender. It is a bet on a new US gambling model. That model blends fixed-odds sportsbooks, real money online casinos, and prediction markets under one roof. Additionally, management previewed 2027 numbers, pointing to at least $7.35B in sales with Predictions contributing up to $750M of that.
What to Watch After the DraftKings Outlook Cut
Three signals will tell the story over the next few months. First, how quickly DKNG closes the NFL volume gap against Kalshi. Second, whether iGaming keeps growing fast enough to offset softer sportsbook margins. Third, any fresh state approvals for online casino play.
The next two earnings calls will set the tone. If the 2027 numbers hold and Predictions volume rises, the stock story heals itself. If both lines keep sliding, expect louder calls to scale the Predictions plan back.
The Takeaway for US Players
DraftKings is not in trouble, but the shape of the business is changing. The company is willing to take a weaker 2026 to set up a stronger 2027 and beyond. For bettors, the smart move is to lock in current offers before any promo pullback hits.
For a wider view of US operators today, check our guide to the best online casinos in the US. It ranks brands on bonus value, payout speed, and game selection.
