SBC Summit Latin America 2024 will be the last major online gaming and sports betting event before having a regulatory framework established in Brazil. Therefore, it will be a great opportunity to hear about the challenges and expectations of the industry for what will be one of the main markets in the world, from great industry leaders, such as Andre Gelfi, president of the Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming (IBJR) and managing partner of the Betsson Group in Brazil.

Gelfi will participate in the panel “The betting boom in Brazil: What's next for the market?”, where they will analyze the current situation and the future of the sector. He will be joined by João Gerçossimo, CEO of EstrelaBet, Alexandre Fonseca, CEO in Brazil of Superbet, Lívia Troise, CEO of Betmais, and Leonardo Chaves, Country Manager in Brazil, OKTO, with the moderation of Angelo Alberoni, Country Manager in Brazil of Novibet.

“Since March last year, the IBJR acts as a representative body for the sports betting sector to encourage debate on responsible gaming, promote the activity as an entertainment option and discuss the benefits of regulation in the country. The institute provides information to players and companies, conducts studies to understand market challenges and the impact of the sector on the economy; it reinforces explanations and adopts an educational angle, raising awareness in society, in addition to carrying out institutional communication work,” says Andre Gelfi.

“The organization also forms strategic alliances with international integrity bodies such as the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA); participates in events to clarify issues and promote the sector; we identify needs and work together on materials such as our Advertising Code, which was the basis of the official document published by the National Council for Advertising Self-Regulation (Conar) in Brazil, etc. We are always working together to serve as a reliable source of information about our industry, collaborating with its sustainable growth”, he adds.

Ordinances published by the Brazilian Betting and Prize Secretariat

“The publication of the ordinances was highly debated and awaited by the betting sector, which maintained an open dialogue with the Federal Government to implement laws and ordinances that were viable in a fair, safe and sustainable online betting and gaming market, based on best practices from countries such as the United Kingdom. The IBJR’s assessment of the content of the ordinances is positive,” says Gelfi.

Differences in regulation since 2024 and changes in 2025

"Before the enactment of the 'Sports Betting Law', the Brazilian online betting and gaming market operated in a regulatory limbo, legally and without the necessary rules, which exposed vulnerable players to a series of externalities. The arrival of regulation completely changed this scenario, establishing betting as part of an international and now national industry, much more complex, with rules, technical requirements and supervision.

“In this adaptation period between the approval of the law and the entry into force of the ordinances, bookmakers are adapting to the new rules and restructuring their processes to comply with the new requirements. As of January 1, 2025, only regularized companies will be able to operate in Brazil, offering online betting and other types of games approved by the SPA/MF, assuring players that they are in a safe environment.”

Growth of the industry in the region

“The regulation of gambling in Brazil shows how Latin America is fertile ground for potential investments in this sector. The number of applications for licences from betting houses demonstrates this in practice, with more than 100 companies requesting to operate officially, following all the rules created by the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA/MF) of the Ministry of Finance. A study we conducted in partnership with IBIA and H2 Gambling Capital showed that Brazil is now the fourth largest market in the world and the largest in Latin America, so the regulation that is underway in the country could change the way we do business on the continent, creating a good example to follow.”

IBJR and Betsson: The importance of participating in SBC Summit LatAm

"One of the pillars of IBJR is information, which goes hand in hand with transparency. A healthy betting market only thrives when these two points are aligned. Participation in events such as the SBC Summit LatAm is essential for IBJR and Betsson because it offers a platform to discuss the maturation of the betting industry in Brazil, share experiences and explore solutions to the challenges it faces globally.

For Betsson, these events are valuable opportunities to learn and contribute its experience, promoting an exchange of knowledge aimed at the sustainable development of the market. By interacting with other industry players, regulators and experts, Betsson gathers information on the latest innovations and best practices, helping to shape a safer and more regulated betting environment.

Furthermore, for the IBJR, participating in these initiatives reinforces its commitment to market integrity by providing up-to-date information that helps guide its members and the entire betting community in Brazil. These interactions enrich the debate on regulation, social responsibility and best practices, directly contributing to a more transparent market in line with international standards."

Perspectives for the event

"The Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming participates in the event to contribute to the market, providing an up-to-date perspective on what is happening in Brazil, especially when the topic is regulation and responsible practices in the betting sector. Our intention is to share knowledge that can support the maturation of the Brazilian market and foster an environment of transparency and integrity.

Betsson is now involved in understanding global market trends, sharing its vast international experience and observing how these discussions are translated into actions that benefit the Brazilian and Latin American markets. The goal is to maximize our development in the region, identify growth opportunities and adapt best practices to strengthen our presence in Brazil and across the continent," Gelfi adds.

IBJR: Website: www.ibjr.org