DraftKings Stock Jumps on Record NFL Betting Surge—Should Investors Buy Now?

Subhead: DraftKings Secures License for Missouri Mobile Sports Betting DraftKings Inc. announced that it has obtained a direct mobile sports-betting license from the Missouri Gaming Commission, clearing the way for an official launch once the state’s enabling legislation takes effect. The authorization positions DraftKings to tap a market of more than 6 million residents and thousands of visiting fans who cross state lines for Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals games. Analysts project Missouri could generate over $500 million in annual handle within three years, giving DraftKings an early-mover advantage among nationally recognized brands. Subhead: Record Q2 2025 Earnings Signal Sustained Profitability The license arrives on the heels of a blockbuster second quarter in which DraftKings posted $1.513 billion in revenue—up 37 percent year-over-year—and delivered $301 million in adjusted EBITDA, its second consecutive profitable quarter. Management reaffirmed full-year revenue guidance of $6.2 billion to $6.4 billion, crediting same-game parlay adoption, in-app live betting, and ongoing market rollouts for the surge. Subhead: $18 Billion Buyback Plan Aims to Reward Shareholders Morningstar analysts estimate DraftKings could repurchase as much as $18 billion in stock over the next decade after retiring 6.5 million shares during the first half of 2025 under its existing $1 billion authorization. The aggressive program is designed to counterbalance dilution from stock-based compensation while signaling confidence in long-term cash-flow generation. Subhead: Eyeing Prediction Markets Ahead of 2026 U.S. Elections Beyond traditional sportsbook growth, DraftKings is reportedly evaluating an entry into regulated prediction markets—a space currently dominated by competitors like Kalshi—as a way to extend its trading-style interface to political and economic events. Industry observers say the move could diversify revenue and deepen user engagement during offseason lulls between major sporting events. Subhead: What to Watch This NFL Season • New State Launches: Missouri’s debut could arrive in time for the NFL playoffs if regulatory timelines accelerate. • Product Enhancements: Expect expanded micro-betting menus and personalized odds boosts tied to star players. • Market Share Battle: With FanDuel, BetMGM, and ESPN Bet all vying for wallet share, retention campaigns and free-to-play contests are likely to intensify. • Stock Momentum: DKNG shares are up more than 40 percent year-to-date; continued profitability could invite index inclusion and broader institutional coverage. With fresh licensing wins, accelerating earnings, and a potential leap into prediction markets, DraftKings enters the 2025 NFL season with momentum on multiple fronts. Investors and bettors alike will be watching whether the company can convert new jurisdictions and innovative products into sustained bottom-line gains.