The Real Economy Of Fantasy Sports

The Real Economy Of Fantasy Sports

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Last year, Americans paid $1.7 billion to play in fantasy sports leagues. Billion! On today’s show, we find real businesses sprouting up to profit from the fantasy sports economy. One guy sells insurance that pays off if a (real) player on your (fantasy) team gets hurt; another settles disputes that pop up in fantasy leagues. Also on the show today: When fantasy football is a negative externality in a marriage. (Bonus: The marriage in question involves a member of the Planet Money team.) For more, see our story Cashing In On The Fantasy Sports Economy. Music: Manning Brothers’ “Football On Your Phone.” Find us: Twitter/ Facebook/Spotify/ Tumblr. Download the Planet Money iPhone App.