Brazil
Brazil intensifies debate on betting regulation as Lula criticizes online gambling
President’s remarks raise concerns across the regulated betting sector
Brazil’s political debate over sports betting intensified after President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva suggested that online gambling could face stricter restrictions or even a potential ban in the future.
During a national radio and television address on March 8, the president defended the creation of legislation that could limit or prohibit online betting activity in the country.
According to specialized outlet BNLData, industry representatives and legal experts warned that such measures could have significant economic consequences and potentially strengthen the illegal gambling market.
Plínio Lemos Jorge, president of the National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL), argued that the main issue is not regulated platforms but the large number of illegal operators currently outside government oversight.
Analysts also noted that the uncertainty generated by the president’s remarks could impact international investment. According to reports cited by the industry, at least two global suppliers have already reconsidered plans to establish operations in Brazil.
The potential impact could extend to the labor market as well. Industry estimates suggest that up to 40,000 direct jobs could be affected if a ban on online betting were implemented.
Licensed operators could also pursue legal action to protect their rights, considering that each company paid approximately $6 million for authorization to operate in the Brazilian market.
Brazilian sports could also face consequences. In 2025 alone, betting companies invested roughly $220 million in football sponsorships, with 13 of the 20 Serie A clubs currently featuring betting operators as their main shirt sponsors.
The sector also highlighted its growing fiscal contribution. According to industry data, online betting generated around $2.9 billion in taxes and contributions in 2025, supporting several public programs.
Given these factors, analysts argue that Brazil’s policy debate should focus on strengthening regulation and combating illegal operators rather than adopting prohibitionist measures that could push players toward unregulated platforms.
Advertising restrictions and public funding proposals shape the regulatory agenda
Brazil’s sports betting industry is currently facing an intense political and regulatory debate.
Just over a year after the country implemented the legal framework that formally regulated the sector, lawmakers are discussing a series of bills that could significantly reshape the market.
Among the most prominent proposals are restrictions on betting advertising, limitations on influencer marketing campaigns, bans on bets related to electoral processes and new mechanisms to channel betting revenues into public programs.
The debate reflects the growing political visibility of an industry that has expanded rapidly since regulation was introduced.
With millions of active bettors and billions of dollars circulating monthly, sports betting has become an important economic player in Brazil, particularly across sports, media and entertainment.
At the same time, the sector’s rapid growth has raised concerns among legislators about its social impact, advertising exposure and the need for clearer limits on commercial strategies used by betting platforms.
Senate discusses stricter advertising rules
One of the central topics in Brazil’s Congress is a proposal to introduce stricter restrictions on sports betting advertising.
A bill currently under discussion would prohibit advertising by betting operators across several media channels, restrict promotional partnerships with digital influencers and ban wagers related to electoral processes.
The proposal was introduced by Senator Randolfe Rodrigues and is currently being reviewed by Senator Damares Alves.
It has already been approved by the Senate’s Science and Technology Committee and will now be analyzed by the Constitution and Justice Committee (CCJ) before potentially moving to a plenary vote.
If approved, the legislation would establish one of the strictest advertising frameworks for the betting sector in Brazil. The bill proposes amendments to Laws 13.756/2018 and 14.790/2023, which currently regulate the market.
Violations could lead to significant penalties, including fines of up to US$2 million, as well as temporary suspension or even revocation of operating licenses.
Potential impact on Brazilian football
Advertising restrictions have raised concerns among football clubs and entertainment industry stakeholders, as sponsorship deals with betting companies have become one of the most important commercial revenue streams for Brazilian football.
Industry estimates indicate that betting companies invested more than $220 million in sponsorship agreements with Serie A clubs during 2025.
For 2026, sponsorship spending is expected to remain close to $200 million, with the majority of top-tier teams maintaining partnerships with betting operators.
Currently, 14 clubs in Brazil’s first division have sponsorship deals with betting companies, and 13 feature betting brands as their primary shirt sponsor.
The Brazilian Institute of Responsible Gaming (IBJR) estimates that clubs receive on average 2.6 times more revenue from betting sponsorships than from competition prize money.
Industry representatives warn that a broad advertising ban could significantly affect the financial structure of Brazilian football.
Industry warns of unintended consequences
Several executives within the betting sector have raised concerns about the consequences of a broad advertising ban.
According to operators, commercial communication plays a key role in helping consumers distinguish regulated platforms from illegal sites operating outside government oversight.
Recent studies suggest that the illegal betting market continues to maintain a significant presence in Brazil.
A report by Yield Sec estimated that illegal operators handled around $3.6 billion in wagers during the first half of 2025 alone.
During the same period, the government may have lost approximately $920 million in tax revenue due to unregulated activity.
Industry estimates suggest that unauthorized platforms could represent up to 49% of Brazil’s total online betting market.
Operators argue that restricting advertising could make it harder for consumers to identify licensed brands, potentially benefiting illegal operators that do not comply with Brazilian regulations.
Betting revenues proposed as funding source for healthcare
While some lawmakers are seeking to limit betting activities, others are exploring ways to use the sector as a funding source for social programs.
One notable proposal, introduced by Senator Dra. Eudócia, would allow philanthropic healthcare institutions to operate fixed-odds betting platforms.
Under the proposal, philanthropic hospitals, health organizations and charities that provide services to Brazil’s public healthcare system (SUS) could obtain betting licenses.
Unlike commercial operators, these institutions would be exempt from paying the licensing fee required to enter the market.
The bill stipulates that all net revenue generated by these betting operations must be used exclusively to fund healthcare initiatives, including purchasing medicines, medical equipment and improving hospital infrastructure.
To ensure transparency, the proposal requires organizations to maintain separate accounting for betting-related operations.
The initiative draws inspiration from international models where regulated gambling revenues support social programs.
Public security funding also enters the debate
The betting sector has also entered discussions about funding public security programs.
A constitutional amendment proposal approved in Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies would allocate 30% of betting tax revenue to the National Public Security Fund.
Camilla Pintarelli, director of the fund, stated that the measure could represent an important step toward ensuring stable resources for public security policies, particularly in regions facing structural challenges.
In 2025, approximately $100 million were removed from the fund due to fiscal mechanisms that allowed the government to reallocate resources, a situation that generated criticism from public security specialists.
A market that continues to grow
Since the betting regulation officially came into force in January 2025, Brazil’s sports betting market has experienced rapid expansion.
Data from Brazil’s Central Bank indicates that bettors wagered between $4 billion and $6 billion per month during 2025.
The sector generated approximately $7.4 billion in gross revenue that year and attracted dozens of international operators interested in entering the Brazilian market.
Currently, the Brazilian government has authorized 84 companies to operate in the country, representing 185 different betting brands.
Each operator paid approximately $6 million for a license, in addition to meeting regulatory requirements established by the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting within the Ministry of Finance.
Outlook for the sector
As the market continues to evolve, political debate over the role of betting in Brazil’s economy is expected to intensify.
The legislative proposals currently under discussion reflect different views on how to balance economic growth with consumer protection and social responsibility.
While some lawmakers advocate stricter advertising restrictions and tighter marketing rules, others see the industry as an opportunity to finance strategic sectors such as healthcare and public security.
Ultimately, the future of Brazil’s betting market will depend not only on the performance of licensed operators but also on the regulatory decisions taken by Congress in the coming months.
The post Brazil intensifies debate on betting regulation as Lula criticizes online gambling appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.
The iGaming market in Brazil has ceased to be a “promise” and has become an operational, regulatory, and economic reality on a global scale.
As the first quarter of 2026 closes, the country is not only preparing for the world’s largest international football tournament, but also consolidating an institutional framework aimed at balancing the industry’s explosive growth with the integrity of the financial and democratic systems.
This weekly summary compiles and analyzes the most critical developments of the week, connecting the business infrastructure in São Paulo with constitutional debates in Brasília and the technological innovations reshaping the user experience.
São Paulo as a Regional Epicenter: The Infrastructure and Business Phenomenon of BiS SiGMA South America
To understand the scale of the Brazilian market, it is essential to look at São Paulo.
The metropolis has established itself as the undisputed capital of executive events in Latin America, a title supported by operational scale, robust infrastructure, and a unique ability to attract highly qualified business audiences.
According to São Paulo’s MICE calendar data, the city closed 2025 with more than 8,700 registered events, ranging from technical congresses to major industrial trade shows.
At the same time, the city has strengthened its position as Brazil’s main gateway for international tourism, recording 2.5 million international visitors in 2025, according to figures cited by the São Paulo City Hall based on Embratur data.
This favorable environment—combining air connectivity, a strong hotel network, cutting-edge convention centers, and a hyperactive business ecosystem—creates ideal conditions for high-level events to thrive.
It is within this context of operational maturity that the city hosts, from April 6 to 9, 2026, at the Transamerica Expo Center, the sixth edition of BiS SiGMA South America.
Considered the largest and most traditional gathering in the iGaming universe in Latin America, BiS SiGMA South America is part of the global SiGMA Group portfolio.
For the 2026 edition, expectations include 18,500 attendees, more than 400 exhibitors and sponsors, and a content program featuring over 250 speakers.
Alessandro Valente, one of the event’s founders and a key figure in structuring a qualified discussion space for the sector in Brazil, commented on the city’s strategic importance:
“São Paulo has a unique DNA for executive events: it is where decisions are made, where networking happens with purpose, and where Brazil meets the world.”
“Hosting the sixth edition of BiS SiGMA South America in this city reinforces its leadership and confirms the sector’s maturity, which now demands technical dialogue, international connections, and a business environment that matches its growth.”
Impact on Market Professionalization
Beyond the trade show, the event offers a robust program of panels, workshops, and awards, addressing critical topics such as innovation, operations, market trends, and best practices.
This structure actively contributes to the evolution and professionalization of the ecosystem, consolidating São Paulo as the natural stage for meetings that drive the country’s economy and executive agenda.
The scale of the 2026 event is a direct testament to how the “technical dialogue” mentioned by Valente has become a priority for operators, regulators, and investors.
The Political-Constitutional Front: Shielding or Revenue? The Debate Around the Security PEC
While São Paulo handles business operations, Brasília is the stage for a crucial battle over legal certainty and the sector’s long-term legitimacy.
Online betting companies assess that the inclusion of bets in the Security PEC (Proposed Constitutional Amendment), approved in early March by the Chamber of Deputies, represents an ambiguous yet fundamental step: it legitimizes and protects the sector, but at a high transactional cost.
The Perspective of Associations and the Regulated Sector
The PEC text does not directly increase taxes paid by the sector but establishes a constitutional allocation: 30% of betting revenue must be directed to the National Public Security Fund (FNSP).
It also includes provisions that recovered, seized, or confiscated assets from illegal betting operations will contribute to this fund.
For industry representatives, mentioning betting in the Constitution makes future attempts to render it illegal more difficult.
The ANJL (National Association of Games and Lotteries) considers the constitutional inclusion “a very important fact to be observed in the PEC,” stating that it makes the legitimacy of the regulated sector clearer and reinforces the need to combat the illegal market.
Similarly, the IBJR (Brazilian Institute of Responsible Gaming) stated that “the presence of the sector in the constitutional text certainly strengthens the legitimacy of formal operators,” considering the new text positive if supported by Parliament and the legal community.
Even the ABFS (Brazilian Association of Bets and Fantasy Sports), while not addressing the constitutional inclusion directly, expressed support for the PEC, viewing it as a relevant measure in combating organized crime.
Dissenting Voices: The Question of Effective Legal Certainty
However, there is no consensus that this constitutional mention guarantees absolute legal certainty. Congressman Mendonça Filho (União-PE) argues that there is nothing to celebrate, stating that the mention does not guarantee legal certainty per se:
“The formalization of the betting sector in Brazil occurred through an ordinary law, which recognizes the allocation of resources. If an ordinary law were to prohibit betting operations in Brazil, even with a constitutional allocation, that allocation would become ineffective, because revenue only exists if legality exists.”
This technical view highlights the fragility of a model dependent on both constitutional amendments and ordinary legislation, as well as ministerial ordinances (SPA).
The PEC rapporteur rejected both government proposals to increase tax revenue and industry requests to include a clause preventing future tax increases, arguing that tax rates do not belong in the Constitution.
The Risk of Future Taxation
The absence of a cap on potential future tax increases was seen as a setback for the sector, according to lawyer Pietro Lorenzoni from ANJL’s legal team.
From an academic perspective, constitutional law professor Marina Faraco of PUC-SP stated that the inclusion “may provide an additional argument for the sector, but not eternal protection.”
She noted that making the activity illegal would require constitutional amendment, which increases legal difficulty but does not eliminate risk.
As a constitutional amendment, the proposal cannot be vetoed by the President.
Judicial Context: The Challenge from Paulo Gonet
While the proposal advances in Congress, the very existence of betting remains under judicial scrutiny. At the end of last year, Attorney General Paulo Gonet reiterated before the Supreme Federal Court (STF) a request to suspend the laws authorizing betting operations.
The IBJR dismissed the challenge, citing the regulatory framework built over the past two years as sufficient to validate the sector’s legality.
This regulatory framework has been the sector’s main defense. The federal government supported regulation to increase tax revenue.
In December, Congress approved a gradual increase in the tax rate on gross gaming revenue (GGR), rising from 12% to 13% in 2026, 14% in 2027, and 15% in 2028.
A Tactical Lobby Victory: The Anti-Faction Bill
The industry secured a significant victory during the vote on the Anti-Faction Bill in the Chamber at the end of February. The original proposal included an additional 15% tax on transfers from individuals to betting platforms.
However, the largest parliamentary bloc requested a separate vote on this provision, which was ultimately removed.
This demonstrates the sector’s political influence in blocking burdensome fiscal measures in the short term.
Operational Integrity and Enforcement: The Battle Against Piracy and the Illegal Market
The success of Brazil’s regulated market depends directly on the State’s ability to suppress illegal supply. This issue was central to discussions at the Chamber’s External Commission on Piracy and the “Legal Brazil” agenda.
Anatel’s Role in Site Blocking
Gianluca Rangearo Fiorentini, enforcement manager at Anatel, explained the agency’s role in blocking illegal betting websites, emphasizing the need to remove unauthorized operators for the regulatory framework to function effectively.
He outlined technical cooperation agreements with the Ministry of Finance but clarified that Anatel cannot independently remove content. Instead, it forwards blocking requests to telecom providers, which control the networks.
The “Legal Brazil” Approach
Anatel’s anti-piracy efforts, led by councilor Edson Holanda, focus on rapid response mechanisms.
Through technical cooperation agreements, the agency aims to “suffocate” illegal supply, ensuring that licensed operators—who paid R$30 million for licenses and contribute to the FNSP—can operate in a fair market.
Democratic Integrity: TSE and the Ethical Limits of Electoral Betting
While the sector seeks legal protection, electoral authorities impose strict limits to safeguard democratic integrity.
The Superior Electoral Court (TSE) reaffirmed the prohibition of betting on election outcomes, based on Article 334 of the Electoral Code.
The rule aims to prevent financial incentives from influencing voter behavior and to ensure transparent elections.
This decision impacts prediction market platforms globally. Brazilian operators such as Prévias, Palpitada, and Futuriza are prohibited from offering electoral betting.
Even international partnerships, such as Kalshi with XP, restrict offerings to economic indicators, excluding electoral and sports events.
Marketing and Audience: The New Era of Creators and Football Passion
With the 2026 World Cup approaching, marketing strategies are undergoing structural change. Betnacional, part of Flutter Brazil, announced its creator squad for the tournament, featuring prominent digital personalities.
This reflects a shift in consumer behavior. According to a 2026 study by Monks Brasil, 77% of Brazilians consider football central to national identity, and 55% find fan-generated content more engaging than traditional advertising.
Executives at Flutter Brazil emphasized that integrating creators enables more authentic engagement and deeper participation in existing fan conversations.
In 2026, iGaming marketing in Brazil is no longer about banner volume, but about organic conversion and cultural authority within digital communities.
Regional Technological Outlook: U.S. Innovation as a Blueprint for Brazil
While Brazil refines its operational and marketing strategies, global markets point to the next technological phase.
In North America, Sportradar expanded its partnership with Hard Rock BetHard Rock, integrating official data from the PGA TOUR and UFC.
This enables highly dynamic in-play betting markets, enhanced by advanced visualizations such as 3D shot tracking and real-time performance analytics.
Executives from both companies highlighted how these integrations enhance user engagement and create more personalized betting experiences.
As Brazil’s market matures in 2026, high-fidelity data integration, 3D tracking, and ultra-specific micro-markets are expected to become key competitive differentiators for licensed operators—topics likely to dominate discussions at BiS SiGMA 2026.
The post Operational Leadership and the Driving Force Behind LatAm’s Largest Event appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.
El mercado de iGaming en Brasil ha dejado de ser una “promesa” para convertirse en una realidad operativa, regulatoria y económica de escala global.
Al cerrar el primer trimestre de 2026, el país no solo se prepara para el mayor torneo de selecciones de fútbol del mundo, sino que consolida un marco institucional que busca equilibrar la explosión del negocio con la integridad del sistema financiero y democrático.
Este resumen semanal compila y analiza los movimientos más críticos de la semana, conectando la infraestructura de negocios en São Paulo con los debates constitucionales en Brasilia y las innovaciones tecnológicas que están redefiniendo la experiencia del usuario.
San Pablo como Epicentro Regional: El Fenómeno de Infraestructura y Negocios del BiS SiGMA South America
Para entender la escala del mercado brasileño, es imperativo mirar hacia São Paulo.
La metrópoli ha consolidado un protagonismo indiscutible como la capital de los eventos ejecutivos en América Latina, un título sustentado por una escala operativa, infraestructura robusta y una capacidad única para atraer públicos cualificados para los negocios.
Según datos del calendario MICE de São Paulo, la ciudad cerró el año 2025 con más de 8,7 mil eventos registrados, abarcando desde congresos técnicos hasta grandes ferias industriales.
Paralelamente, la capital paulista ha ampliado su liderazgo como puerta de entrada del turismo internacional en Brasil, registrando 2,5 millones de turistas internacionales en 2025, de acuerdo con datos citados por la Prefectura de São Paulo con base en la Embratur.
Este ambiente favorable, que combina conectividad aérea, red hoteleira robusta, centros de convenciones de vanguardia y un ecosistema empresarial hiperactivo, crea las condiciones ideales para que eventos de alto nivel se multipliquen.
Es en este contexto de madurez operativa que la ciudad recibe, del 6 al 9 de abril de 2026, en el Transamerica Expo Center, la sexta edición del BiS SiGMA South America.
Considerado el mayor y más tradicional encuentro del universo de iGaming en América Latina, el BiS SiGMA South America integra el portafolio global del SiGMA Group.
Para la edición de 2026, la expectativa es recibir a 18.500 participantes, contar con más de 400 expositores y patrocinadores, y una programación de contenido con más de 250 palestrantes.
Alessandro Valente, uno de los idealizadores del evento y figura clave en la estructuración de un espacio de discusión cualificada para el sector en Brasil, comenta sobre la importancia estratégica de la ciudad para el evento:
“São Paulo tiene un ADN único para eventos ejecutivos: es donde se toman las decisiones, donde el networking sucede con propósito y donde Brasil se encuentra con el mundo.“
“Realizar la sexta edición del BiS SiGMA South America en esta ciudad refuerza el protagonismo y confirma la madurez del sector, que hoy demanda diálogo técnico, conexiones internacionales y un ambiente de negocios a la altura de su crecimiento”.
Impacto en la Profesionalización del Mercado
Más allá de la feria de negocios, el evento ofrece una programación robusta de paneles, talleres y premiaciones, abordando temas críticos como innovación, operaciones, tendencias de mercado y buenas prácticas.
Esta estructura contribuye activamente a la evolución y profesionalización del ecosistema, consolidando a São Paulo como el escenario natural de los encuentros que impulsan la economía y la agenda ejecutiva del país.
La escala del evento en 2026 es un testimonio directo de cómo el “diálogo técnico” mencionado por Valente se ha convertido en la prioridad para operadores, reguladores e inversores.
El Frente Político-Constitucional: ¿Blindaje o Recaudación? El Debate sobre la PEC de la Seguridad
Mientras São Paulo maneja la operativa de negocios, en Brasilia se libra una batalla crucial por la seguridad jurídica y la legitimidad a largo plazo del sector.
Las empresas de apuestas online evalúan que la inclusión de las bets en la PEC (Propuesta de Enmienda a la Constitución) de la Seguridad, aprobada a inicios de marzo por la Cámara de Diputados, representa un paso ambiguo pero fundamental: legítima y protege el sector, pero a un costo transaccional alto.
La Perspectiva de las Asociaciones y el Sector Regulado
El texto de la PEC no aumenta los impuestos directamente pagados por el sector, pero establece una destinación constitucional: el 30% de la recaudación de las apuestas debe ser destinada al FNSP (Fundo Nacional de Segurança Pública).
Además, incluye la previsión de que valores recuperados, aprehendidos o confiscados de la explotación ilegal de apuestas también compongan este fondo.
Para los representantes del área, al mencionar a las bets en la Constitución, la propuesta dificulta eventuales intentos de tornarlas ilegales en el futuro.
Desde la ANJL (Associação Nacional de Jogos e Loterias), se evalúa que la inserción de la actividad en la Constitución Federal es: “…un hecho muy importante a ser observado en la PEC. La asociación evalúa que la inclusión deja ‘más transparente y más clara la legitimidad del sector regulado y la necesidad del combate al mercado ilegal’.”
Por su parte, el IBJR (Instituto Brasileiro de Jogo Responsable) afirmó que: “la presencia del sector en el texto constitucional ciertamente fortalece la legitimidad de los operadores formales Asumiendo que el Parlamento y la comunidad jurídica concuerdan haber espacio para esta previsión constitucional, el instituto evalúa como positivo el nuevo texto.”
Inclusive la ABFS (Associação Brasileira de Bets e Fantasy Sport), aunque no respondió preguntas específicas sobre la inserción constitucional, afirmó que: “apoya la aprobación de la PEC de la Seguridad Pública por entender que se trata de medida relevante en el enfrentamiento al crimen organizado.”
Voces Disonantes: La Cuestión de la Seguridad Jurídica Efectiva
Sin embargo, no hay consenso sobre si esta mención constitucional representa una victoria absoluta en términos de seguridad jurídica. Para el diputado Mendonça Filho, no hay qué celebrar. Él evalúa que la citación no garantiza seguridad jurídica per se:
“La formalización del sector de bets en Brasil se dio por medio de una ley ordinaria, que reconoce el hecho de tener la destinación del recurso.”
“Si una ley ordinaria, por ejemplo, prohíbe la actuación de bets en Brasil, aunque tengas una destinación constitucional, la destinación ella va a quedar inocua, porque la recaudación solo existe si hay legalidad”.
Esta visión técnica resalta la fragilidad de un modelo que depende tanto de una enmienda constitucional (PEC) como de leyes ordinarias y ordenanzas ministeriales (SPA).
El relator de la PEC rechazó tanto los pedidos del gobierno de aumentar la recaudación de impuestos como los pedidos de las bets para incluir un artículo que prohibiera un aumento futuro de tasación, argumentando que las alícuotas tributarias no caben en un texto constitucional.
El Riesgo de una Tasa Futura
El hecho de que la PEC no incluya un límite para un posible aumento futuro fue visto como una derrota para el sector, explicó el abogado Pietro Lorenzoni, del equipo jurídico de la ANJL.
Desde la academia, la profesora de derecho constitucional de la PUC-SP (Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo), Marina Faraco, considera que la citación: “puede garantizar más un argumento para el sector, pero no una protección eterna.”
“Si la Constitución prevé el funcionamiento de estas actividades, si 30% de ellas va para este fondo, para que ella se torne esa actividad irregular, tendría que alterar la Constitución. O sea, en ese sentido queda más difícil de tornar irregular, con seguridad.”
Como se trata de una propuesta de enmienda constitucional, el Presidente de la República no tiene poder de veto.
El Contexto Judicial: El Desafío de Paulo Gonet
Mientras la propuesta avanza en el Congreso, la existencia misma de las apuestas sigue siendo cuestionada judicialmente. A finales del año pasado, el procurador-general de la República, Paulo Gonet, reiteró ante el STF (Supremo Tribunal Federal) el pedido de suspensión de las leyes que autorizan el funcionamiento de las bets.
Para el IBJR, este desafío carece de fundamento operativo: “no hay que hablar en ilegalidad del mercado de apuestas de cuota fija, vista todo el arcabouço construido a lo largo de los últimos 2 años.”
Este “arcabouço” regulatorio ha sido la defensa principal del sector. La regularización fue apoyada por el gobierno federal para aumentar la recaudación.
En diciembre, el Congreso aprobó un aumento gradual en la alícuota sobre la receta bruta de juegos (GGR), que era del 12% en la legislación anterior.
La ley complementaria elevó la recaudación al 13% en 2026, 14% en 2027 y 15% en 2028.
Una Victoria Táctica del Lobby: El PL Antifacção
El lobby del sector conquistó una victoria relevante durante la votación del PL Antifacção en la Cámara, a finales de febrero. La versión original del informe contemplaba la creación de una tasa extra del 15% sobre las transferencias de personas físicas a las plataformas de apuestas online.
Sin embargo, el mayor bloque del parlamento (el “blocão”), solicitó una votación por separado del trecho, que acabó siendo retirado de la propuesta. Este movimiento demuestra que el sector ha cultivado una influencia política capaz de frenar medidas fiscales asfixiantes en el corto plazo.
Integridad Operativa y Represión: La Batalha contra la Piratería y el Mercado Ilegal
El éxito del mercado regulado brasileño depende directamente de la capacidad del Estado para asfixiar la oferta ilegal.
Este tema fue el foco de debate en la Comisión Externa de la Cámara de Diputados sobre los Actos de Piratería y la Agenda del “Brasil Legal”, realizada este martes (24/3).
El Rol de la Anatel en el Bloqueo de Sitios
Gianluca Rangearo Fiorentini, gerente de Fiscalización de la Anatel (Agência Nacional de Telecomunicações), representó a la Agencia en una audiencia pública destinada a discutir estrategias de combate a la piratería digital, mecanismos de fiscalización, cooperación internacional y medidas de protección al consumidor en el sector de apuestas online.
Fiorentini explicó el papel de la Agencia en el proceso de bloqueo de sitios ilegales: “Para que el marco regulatorio de las apuestas funcione de forma adecuada, es necesario remover las empresas que operan ilegalmente”.
Él presentó las líneas de acción de bloqueo y los acuerdos de cooperación técnica entre la Anatel y el Ministerio de Hacienda.
Sin embargo, Rangearo dejó claro que la Agencia no posee medios fácticos y legales para promover, por sí sola, el retiro de contenido.
Esta medida corresponde a las propias prestadoras de servicios de telecomunicaciones, que gestionan sus redes. Así, tras recibir un oficio solicitando el bloqueo, la Anatel encamina las solicitudes a las prestadoras.
El Enfoque del “Brasil Legal”
El combate a la piratería dentro de la Anatel es liderado por el consejero Edson Holanda, quien reforzó la necesidad de agilidad técnica: “El éxito de la regulación de las apuestas online depende directamente de la agilidad en la respuesta a los ilícitos.”
“Por medio de los acuerdos de cooperación técnica, como el firmado con el Ministerio de Hacienda, la Anatel aprimora constantemente los flujos de bloqueos junto a las prestadoras. El objetivo es claro: asfixiar la oferta pirata para que el ‘Brasil Legal’ se consolide también en el ambiente de las apuestas virtuales“.
Este enfoque de “asfixia” técnica y financiera es considerado el pilar más efectivo para garantizar que los operadores que pagaron las licencias (los R$ 30 millones) y que contribuirán al FNSP tengan un mercado competitivo real en 2026.
Integridad Democrática: El TSE y los Límites Éticos de las Apuestas Electorales
Mientras el sector busca blindaje constitucional y combate a la piratería, la justicia electoral impone límites estrictos para proteger la soberanía del voto.
El TSE (Tribunal Superior Eleitoral) reafirmó la prohibición de apuestas involucrando resultados electorales en el país. Esta norma, aprobada en septiembre de 2024, modificó los artículos de la Resm 23.735/2024.
El Fundamento Jurídico e Impacto en Mercados de Previsiones
La prohibición se fundamenta en el artículo 334 del Código Electoral, vigente desde 1965. Según el TSE, esta vedación busca:
“impedir que ventajas financieras o materiales influencien el voto de los electores, evitando prácticas que puedan configurar abuso de poder económico, captar ilícitamente votos o propaganda irregular.”
“Con el crecimiento de las plataformas digitales de apuestas, el TSE consideró necesario explicitar estas reglas para garantizar un pleito seguro y transparente, libre de interferencias que comprometan la libertad de elección del elector“.
Esta decisión afecta directamente el funcionamiento de plataformas de mercados de previsiones que crecen mundialmente.
Operadoras nacionales como Prévias, Palpitada y Futuriza no pueden incluir apuestas electorales en sus operaciones. Inclusive la asociación entre Kalshi y el banco XP permite apenas negociaciones sobre indicadores económicos a través de contratos de “sí o no” para clientes de la cuenta internacional Clear, quedando los eventos electorales y deportivos estrictamente excluidos.
Marketing y Audiencia: La Nueva Era de los Creadores y la Pasión por el Fútbol
Con la Copa del Mundo de 2026 en el horizonte, las estrategias de marketing están sufriendo una transformación estructural.
Betnacional, marca del Grupo Flutter Brazil, anunció su “squad de creators” para el principal torneo de selecciones del fútbol mundial.
Este equipo reúne nombres como Bárbara Coelho, Matheus Gonze, Carter Batista, Braune, Igor Rodrigues, André Balada, Fernanda Arantes, Giovanna Moura, Carol Narizinho y Renata Heilborn. La iniciativa forma parte de la plataforma de comunicación “Bota essa paixão pra jogo”.
El Cambio en el Consumo de Fútbol: Del Medio Tradicional a la Red Social
Este movimiento acompaña un cambio claro en el comportamiento del consumidor. Según un estudio de Monks Brasil (2026), agencia de social media de Flutter Brazil, el 77% de los brasileños reconocen el fútbol como parte central de la identidad nacional, y el 55% apuntan que contenidos producidos por otros torcedores generan más conexión que la publicidad tradicional.
Alvaro Garcia, CMO de Flutter Brazil, explica la elección estratégica: “Estar con CazéTV es una elección estratégica porque nos coloca dentro de un ambiente que ya nace digital y conectado con el comportamiento actual del público.”
“Al traer creadores para esta construcción, ampliamos la forma de mirar el juego, con diferentes perspectivas que ayudan a la marca a participar de manera más relevante de las conversaciones que ya existen entre los fans”.
Henrique Mendonça, Head of Social Media, Influencers & PR de Flutter Brazil, destaca el origen orgánico de esta estrategia: “Este squad nace dentro de las propias comunidades, con perfis que ya viven el fútbol en el día a día y traducen eso en contenido mientras todo sucede.”
“La idea es acompañar este ritmo, con diferentes formatos y lenguajes, para que la presencia de la marca acontezca de forma más orgánica dentro de las conversaciones”.
En 2026, el marketing de iGaming en Brasil ya no es sobre volumen de banners, sino sobre conversión orgánica y autoridad cultural dentro de las comunidades digitales.
El Horizonte Tecnológico Regional: Inovación en EE.UU. como Espejo para Brasil
Mientras Brasil ajusta su operativa y marketing para la Copa, el mercado global ofrece pistas sobre la próxima fase tecnológica.
En América del Norte, Sportradar profundizó su acuerdo plurianual con Hard Rock Bet, integrando datos oficiales de la PGA TOUR y la UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship).
Esta expansión permite ofrecer mercados de apuestas en vivo (in-play betting) extremadamente dinámicos, complementados por visualizaciones avanzadas diseñadas para elevar la experiencia del apostador, como el seguimiento de tacadas en 3D para cada hoyo en el golf y análisis de golpes intentados y logrados en tiempo real para la UFC.
Eduard Blonk, Chief Commercial Officer de Sportradar, señaló: “Estamos trayendo la escala total de nuestro portfolio de datos oficiales, probabilidades y AV a los clientes de Hard Rock Bet. La adición de nuestro contenido recientemente adquirido de la PGA TOUR y UFC puede ayudar a los operadores a desbloquear oportunidades de apuestas en vivo más dinámicas y profundizar el compromiso de los fans”.
Mike Primeaux, Executive Managing Director y COO de Hard Rock Digital, coincide: “Al continuar integrando el contenido de Sportradar, estamos dando a los jugadores más formas de participar con la acción en nuestra app top-rated.”
“Esta asociación fortalece la experiencia diferenciada de Hard Rock Bet y apoya nuestra meta de entregar una jornada simple y personalizada que mantiene a los fans conectados a los momentos que más les importan“.
Con un mercado brasileño maduro en 2026, la integración de datos de alta fidelidad, rastreo 3D y micro-mercados ultraespecíficos (como los discutidos para PGA/UFC) será el próximo diferencial competitivo para operadores licenciados que busquen retener a los apostadores de alto valor, un tema que seguramente será central en el diálogo técnico del BiS SiGMA 2026.
The post iGaming Brasil: Liderazgo Operativo y el Impulso del Mayor Evento de LatAm appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.
Pragmatic Play, a leading content supplier to the iGaming industry, has further enhanced its relationship with Cactus Gaming, adding its cutting-edge Smart Studio solution to their deal, now live across the operator’s brands.
Smart Studio offers flexible customisation and branding options, leveraging advanced technology to provide operators with complete control over the game environment’s design to offer premium, bespoke casino experiences.
With localised live casino favourites such as Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat, Cactus Gaming can now deliver an extensive range of best-in-class live dealer titles to its customers.
The agreement marks Pragmatic Play’s latest partnership expansion in Brazil’s regulated market, where demand for its market-leading content suite continues to rise across one of the region’s most dynamic and high-growth jurisdictions.
Victor Arias, VP of LatAm at ARRISE, said: “The Smart Studio solution continues to see strong uptake across Latin America, thanks to the flexible environments and full customization it provides to operators.
“We’re delighted to see Pragmatic Play’s Smart Studio solution now live with Cactus Performance BR’s live casino offering across the Brazilian regulated market, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen an already close partnership.”
Thiago Garrides, CEO at Cactus Gaming, added: “Pragmatic Play’s products have supported our growth in Brazil, enabling us to carve a strong market position.
“Now that Smart Studio is live, we’re confident it will allow us to further develop our casino portfolio and offer the best possible experiences to our customers.”
The post Pragmatic Play’s Smart Studio Goes Live with Cactus Gaming appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.
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