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Lula said he intends to discuss the matter with his team and analyse potential measures to consider the social impact of online betting.

What the president does not acknowledge is that the government relies on revenue from the sector. In just the first seven months of 2026, BRL8.747 billion generated by sports betting has already flowed into public coffers. The Federal Revenue Service estimates the total could reach BRL16 billion by the end of the year. In 2025, nearly BRL9 billion was collected from sportsbooks.

The burning question is where such funds will come from if Lula shuts down the betting industry. Yet, no one points out to him that players will simply migrate to the illegal market. Betting will continue to exist, but without formal tax revenue, oversight or player protections.

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Various MPs voiced concerns about the risk of privacy violations in accessing this data, and the potential social stigma around the information being shared.

Christofidou also floated the idea of issuing GMI recipients with a special card for in-person verification at gambling venues, but several MPs warned this could stigmatise welfare recipients.

Current gambling legislation restricts participation for minors and those classified as “financially vulnerable”. However, GMI recipients are not yet formally classified as such for the purpose of these regulations.

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“IAGR is extremely grateful for Fabio Macorin’s willingness to dedicate his extensive talents to representing South America at a pivotal time for gaming regulation across the region,” said IAGR Vice President Brian Krolicki.

“He brings a powerful combination of expertise in law enforcement, financial crime prevention and regulation to IAGR. His 17 years with the federal police and his leadership in building Brazil’s new regulated betting market give him a unique perspective on combatting the illegal market, strengthening AML controls and advancing regulatory cooperation. He is an ideal addition to the IAGR board of trustees and will be a tremendous asset to our global community.”

The IAGR Conference is themed “Steady Hands, Changing Ground: Advancing Regulation in a Connected World”. It will examine how regulators and other stakeholders can enhance regulatory oversight in the face of constantly evolving technology, markets and risks. Sessions will focus on strengthening cross-jurisdictional cooperation and developing more effective regulatory responses to the rapid transformations within the global gaming and betting landscape.