Longbets.org is a platform for “enjoyably competitive” predictions of socially or scientifically important topics. The catch? The money at stake is all philanthropic.
The organization aims to be three things:
- a platform for competitive betting and long term “predictions”
- a forum for focused debates about listed predictions
- a tool to promote philanthropic giving
How it works:
- You can post your own prediction:
- Minimum of 2 years, no maximum
- Must be of socially or scientifically importance/interest
- These are not theories, and you must elaborate on your reasoning
- Pay a $50 fee to publish a prediction
- Predictions can become bets if challenged
- You can challenge a prediction, providing your own theory and reasoning
- Once the original predictor accepts, you can agree upon an amount (minimum $200) and each select your charitable donation
- Sign the bettors agreement and sit back
Fun Examples:
- Warren Buffett predicts (for the benefit of Girls Incorporated of Omaha): “Over a ten-year period commencing on January 1, 2008, and ending on December 31, 2017, the S&P 500 will outperform a portfolio of funds of hedge funds, when performance is measured on a basis net of fees, costs and expenses.” Protege Partners, LLC bets $1,000,000 for Friends of Absolute Return for Kids, Inc against him with their own theory.
- “The US men’s soccer team will win the World Cup before the Red Sox win the World Series.”