Apple has introduced stricter rules preventing employees from using confidential company information to place bets on prediction markets. The updated policy also prohibits staff from sharing sensitive company details with people who may use them to make predictions.
The changes appear in Apple's fiscal 2026 Form 10-K, an annual filing submitted to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The document was published a day after the company announced its fourth-quarter financial results.
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According to a report by 9to5Mac, the updated rules are included in Apple's insider trading policy under Exhibit 19.1. The new restrictions cover prediction markets and similar platforms where users trade contracts linked to future events.
The revised policy specifically prevents employees from using confidential information obtained through their work to participate in prediction markets. The restriction applies to information about Apple and other businesses connected to its operations.
These include suppliers, manufacturers, vendors, customers, mobile network operators and other business partners. Apple's updated policy states, "No Trading in Prediction Markets Based on Confidential Information.”
Do not participate in ‘prediction markets’ or similar platforms to wager, bet, trade, buy or sell contracts based on the outcome of future events, or otherwise enter into event contracts, when such activity involves the use of Apple Confidential Information (as defined in Apple’s Business Conduct Policy) about Apple or any other company..."
The policy also prohibits employees from passing confidential information to others who may participate in these markets. It covers material non-public information and other sensitive business details.
The updated restrictions go beyond conventional insider trading rules. Apple has made it clear that employees cannot use confidential information for prediction market bets even when the activity does not qualify as insider trading under applicable laws.
Prediction markets allow users to trade contracts based on the possible outcomes of future events. These platforms cover areas such as politics, business and major public developments.
The updated policy addresses concerns over employees using privileged workplace information for personal financial gains. It also places responsibility on staff to prevent sensitive company details from reaching other market participants.
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